From Cairo: 8-Day Tour of Cairo, Luxor and Aswan with Cruise

A Detailed Look at the 8-Day Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan Tour with Cruise

Planning a trip to Egypt can be overwhelming with so many must-see sites and countless tour options. That’s why I took a close look at this 8-day all-inclusive journey—designed by Nice Tours—to see if it really delivers a seamless blend of history, comfort, and authentic experiences.

From what we’ve gathered, this tour offers impressive highlights, including the Pyramids of Giza, a Nile cruise, and Abu Simbel, all wrapped in a package that promises convenience and value. We love the well-rounded itinerary covering key sites, 5-star accommodations, and private guides that promise in-depth insights.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour is quite structured, which might limit spontaneous exploration. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, stress-free experience but less so for those craving total flexibility.

This tour suits history buffs, first-time visitors, or anyone eager for a hassle-free Egyptian adventure. If you’re looking for a well-organized trip that covers all the essentials with some luxurious touches, this might be your best bet.

Key Points

• Impressive Itinerary: Visits to Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel, with a focus on iconically Egyptian landmarks.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Hotel stays, flights, meals, and guided tours included, providing great value.
• Authentic Experiences: Private guides and transportation enhance the comfort and depth of each site visit.
• Unique Activities: Hot air balloon rides, Nile cruise, felucca sailing, and a folkloric Nile dinner add memorable flair.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Merena and others, praised for detailed commentary and responsiveness.
• Well-Reviewed: A near-perfect rating of 5.0 based on 132 reviews, with many travelers citing smooth planning and stunning sights.

An Overview of What to Expect

This tour packs a lot into 8 days, but it’s designed to be manageable and deeply enriching. The balance between guided sightseeing, culture, and relaxing moments makes it a compelling choice, especially considering it’s all-inclusive—saving you the hassle of planning every detail.

Day 1: Arrival in Cairo and Nile Gala Dinner

Your journey begins with a warm welcome from the Nice Tours representative outside Cairo’s airport. You’ll be driven to a 5-star hotel, where you can settle in and freshen up. In the evening, a Nile dinner cruise awaits, featuring traditional folklore shows, Egyptian music, and lively ambiance. This first night sets the tone, giving you a taste of Egyptian hospitality and culture amid stunning river views.

Day 2: Giza Pyramids and Memphis

After a hearty breakfast, your private guide will take you to the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. Expect to marvel at these ancient marvels—built to last forever—and possibly snap some iconic photos. A stop in Memphis offers insight into one of Egypt’s oldest cities, once a major hub for worshipping Ptah. Visiting Saqqara will deepen your appreciation for Egypt’s pyramid-building prowess, with the Step Pyramid of Djoser being a highlight. Reviewers note the pyramids are “built to last forever,” and the experience of walking among them is unforgettable.

Day 3: Islamic and Coptic Cairo

This day dives into Cairo’s contrasting sides: Islamic Cairo with the Citadel and Muhammad Ali Mosque, and Coptic Cairo, home to the Hanging Church and Saint George Church. The guide’s commentary helps unravel centuries of history, architecture, and religious significance. Lunch at a local restaurant gives a taste of Egyptian cuisine amid the bustling city. Reviewers appreciated the detailed explanations of Islamic and Coptic sites, describing them as “beautiful” and “historic.”

Day 4: Luxor Arrival and Ancient Temples

A short flight transports you to Luxor, where the Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple await. These sites showcase ancient Egyptian religious architecture and rituals. The optional felucca ride on the Nile in the evening offers a peaceful, scenic experience, with many travelers noting the gentle sway and sunset views as a highlight.

Day 5: Hot Air Balloon and Valley of the Kings

Early morning hot air balloon rides provide panoramic views of Luxor’s monuments—an often-quoted “life-changing experience” in reviews. Afterward, explore the Valley of the Kings, the resting place of Pharaohs like Tutankhamun. The Temple of Hatshepsut adds a glimpse into the story of Egypt’s formidable female ruler. Visiting Memnon statues wraps up the day with great photo opportunities. Reviewers mention the hot air balloon as “marvelous,” and the tomb visits as “deeply fascinating,” though some note the early start is demanding.

Day 6: Edfu and Kom Ombo

Sailing along the Nile, you’ll explore the Temple of Horus in Edfu, praised for its preservation and detailed carvings. Then, the Temple of Kom Ombo stands out with its dual dedication to Sobek and Haroeris, making it a unique sight. Many reviewers love the combination of peaceful sailing and these mysterious temples, describing it as “beautiful and fascinating.”

Day 7: Abu Simbel and Philae

A pre-dawn trip takes you to Abu Simbel, often called Egypt’s most impressive temple. Built by Ramesses II, it was relocated to escape flooding—an engineering feat and a must-see. Following this, the Temple of Philae offers more stunning hieroglyphics and sculptures. Travelers frequently call Abu Simbel “breathtaking,” and many appreciate the full-day excursion to see such iconic sites.

Day 8: Return to Cairo

After breakfast, you’ll fly back to Cairo, where your tour concludes. The transfer from the airport to your hotel allows a moment to reflect on the journey—an efficient, relaxed end to a busy week.

Deep Dive into Highlights and Practical Details

Transportation: Private guides and vehicles make every trip smooth, allowing for personalized pacing. The flights between Cairo and Luxor, as well as Aswan to Cairo, are included, which means no stress over long drives. The Nile cruise with 5-star accommodations ensures comfort throughout, with luxurious amenities and attentive service.

Activities: The hot air balloon ride is a standout, offering rare views of Luxor’s skyline and monuments. Cruises on the Nile and felucca rides provide calm, scenic breaks from busy sightseeing. The guided temple visits are detailed and engaging, with reviews praising the guides’ knowledge—like Merena, who was described as helpful and diligent.

Meals and Dining: All meals are included—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—offering a taste of Egyptian cuisine. Many reviews mention the food as “good value,” with some noting the food is mostly enjoyed by guides and drivers, but generally satisfying and convenient.

Value for Money: At $1,200 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package—hotels, flights, guides, meals, and activities—making it a strong value, especially given the 5-star accommodations and included excursions. Reviewers like EdselMaurice note that this is “the best value for money all-inclusive tour of Egypt.”

Tour Pace and Group Size: As a private tour, you benefit from personalized attention and flexibility. The itinerary is busy but well-paced, with early starts for certain activities like Abu Simbel and hot air ballooning.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides for their depth of insight—describing Merena as “exceptional” and helpful in addressing every need. Others highlight the stunning views from hot air balloon rides and boat trips, calling the experience “life-changing” and “breathtaking.”

The food and hospitality also get good marks, with most finding the included meals satisfactory, especially considering the convenience of having everything arranged. A couple of reviews mention some issues with vehicle conditions and guide coverage, but overall, the experience seems to outweigh the minor inconveniences.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This comprehensive 8-day Egypt adventure is perfect for travelers who want all the major sights covered without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It suits those who appreciate a balanced mix of guided tours, culture, and relaxing moments like cruising and ballooning.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a solo traveler who prefers private guides and a structured schedule, this tour offers peace of mind, comfort, and a chance to see Egypt’s highlights in style.

Final Thoughts on the Tour’s Value

For most travelers, this tour presents exceptional value—covering flights, accommodations, meals, and entry fees—making it easier to budget for the trip. The inclusion of unique experiences like hot air ballooning and Nile cruising adds substantial memorable moments.

While the schedule is packed, the tour’s organization and guide expertise make every day rewarding rather than exhausting. The luxury hotel stays and private transport ensure comfort, even after long sightseeing days.

This experience is best suited for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free way to explore Egypt’s most iconic sites with knowledgeable guides, comfortable accommodations, and some unforgettable adventures thrown in.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but the early morning hot air balloon ride and long days might be tiring for very young children or seniors.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included daily, giving you a chance to enjoy local dishes without extra planning.

How many nights are spent on the Nile cruise?
You’ll stay on the 5-star Nile cruise for four nights, traveling from Luxor to Aswan, which offers both comfort and scenic views.

Is airport pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package, making your arrival and departure seamless.

Are all entrance fees covered?
Yes, all the listed site entrance fees are included, so there are no surprises on location.

What’s the best way to see Abu Simbel?
The tour includes an early morning trip to Abu Simbel, which is often praised for its breathtaking size and historical significance.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a private tour, you may have some flexibility, but the core itinerary is structured for maximum coverage.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
Currently, the tour is guided in English; other languages might require additional arrangements.

What should I pack?
Light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera are essential. Early mornings for balloon rides may require warmer layers.

Is this tour good value for money?
Absolutely. With all-inclusive pricing, luxurious accommodations, and unique experiences, many travelers find it offers excellent value.

This 8-day tour of Egypt by Nice Tours combines convenience, comfort, and authentic sightseeing, making it a strong contender for your Egyptian adventure. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, the thoughtfully curated itinerary promises a memorable journey through one of the world’s most fascinating places.