Private 7-Night Cairo, Aswan, and Nile Cruise with Flights

If you’re dreaming of wandering Egypt’s ancient wonders, this private 7-night tour promises a seamless blend of cultural riches, scenic cruising, and expert guidance. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, a close look at the reviews and itinerary reveals an experience packed with historical highlights, comfortable accommodations, and the convenience of all-in-one planning.

What we love about this tour? First, the deep knowledge of guides like Mohammed and Refaie, who bring history to life with stories and personal insights. Second, the stunning vistas of the Nile and iconic temples, especially at sunrise or sunset—perfect for memorable photos. Third, the full-board cruise and flexible hotel options that promise comfort without breaking the bank.

One consideration? The extra costs for optional excursions and entrance fees can add up quickly, so budgeting for tips and extras is essential. This tour suits history buffs, first-time visitors, and those who prefer a well-organized, immersive trip with a mix of sightseeing, cruising, and local experiences.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, and Nile cruise with flights included
• Expert guides who make history engaging and give valuable local insights
• Comfortable accommodations with options for 4- or 5-star hotels and full-board cruises
• Extra costs for entrance fees and optional excursions—important to budget accordingly
• Highly praised guides like Mohammed and Refaie enhance the experience
• Tipping culture prevalent; travelers should prepare small bills for gratuities

An In-Depth Review of the Tour Experience

The Booking and Overall Value

At $1,550 per person, this tour offers a well-packaged experience that balances convenience with authentic sights. For many travelers, it’s a practical option that eliminates the hassle of booking separate flights, hotels, and transfers. The price includes domestic flights Cairo/Aswan/Luxor and full-board Nile cruise, which typically represents good value given the coverage of major sites and the comfort of the cruise.

Reviewers frequently mention the timing and structure; with bookings happening roughly 89 days in advance, it’s clear this is a popular choice, especially for first-timers eager to tick off Egypt’s most iconic locations. The tour’s variety ensures a blend of guided visits, scenic cruising, and free time, making it suitable for those who want a curated experience without feeling rushed.

The Starting Point: Cairo

Your adventure begins at Cairo International Airport, where representatives from Explore plus Holidays ease your entry with seamless pickup and visa assistance. One reviewer, Claudia, noted how their guide in Cairo, Mr. Sobhi, made the journey comfortable and informative, highlighting the country’s culture and history with genuine warmth.

Day 2 is dedicated to the Giza Pyramids and the Egyptian Museum. Visiting the Pyramids, you’ll get to see the last surviving wonder of the ancient world, with plenty of photo opportunities. Guides like Mohammed and Refai are praised for their storytelling skills, bringing the history to life, which elevates the visit beyond just sightseeing.

The Egyptian Museum provides a treasure trove of artifacts, with highlights like King Tut’s golden mask and royal mummies. Reviewers appreciated guides’ attention to detail, explaining the stories behind each exhibit, making the experience more personal and memorable.

Transition to Aswan

After Cairo, you’ll take a domestic flight to Aswan, where the adventure continues with a three-night Nile cruise. Arriving in Aswan, you’ll be greeted by guides and proceed to visit key sites like the Unfinished Obelisk—the largest known ancient monolith—and the Aswan High Dam, a marvel of modern engineering.

Many reviews mention the professional guides who accompany the cruise, providing insight into Egyptian history and culture. Mahmood, the cruise guide, is frequently highlighted for storytelling, patience, and his ability to answer questions without pushiness.

Temples and Optional Tours

A major highlight is the optional visit to Abu Simbel, about 3.5 hours drive from Aswan. Reviewers like Bowman and Claudia describe this visit as awe-inspiring, with the massive statues and intricate carvings truly impressive. The tour includes both the two Abu Simbel temples, reflecting Ramses II’s grandeur, and the chance to enjoy the scenic drive through Egypt’s desert landscape.

The Temple of Philae dedicated to Isis is another must-see—reviewers note the temple’s beautiful setting on an island and its storytelling about funeral rituals and life.

During the cruise, stops at Kom Ombo and Edfu are equally memorable. The dual dedication of the Kom Ombo temple to Sobek and Horus offers a unique glimpse into Egyptian religion, while Edfu’s well-preserved temple dedicated to Horus is praised for its completeness and grandeur. Guides’ explanations help travelers appreciate the architecture and symbolism built into each site.

Luxor’s Treasures

Luxor, often called the world’s greatest open-air museum, is packed with sights. The Valley of the Kings is a highlight, where multiple tombs of pharaohs, including Tutankhamun, are hidden deep within the mountains. Reviewers like Nataly praise the guides’ storytelling, making these tombs feel alive with history.

The Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon are also in the West Bank, with the former showcasing Egypt’s only female ruler, and the latter offering a striking view across the Nile. Optional visits to Karnak Temple add even more grandeur, though some reviewers suggest scheduling these sights early to avoid crowds.

The Return to Cairo

After Luxor, you’ll fly back to Cairo, where the tour offers a free day or optional visit to Alexandria. Reviewers like Michael and Hernan note that the hotels may not always match international 5-star standards, but the services and guides compensate for that.

The last day involves a transfer from the hotel to Cairo International Airport for your onward journey. Many reviewers appreciated the smooth logistics and the personalized service, which made the end of the trip stress-free.

Practical Aspects and Tips

Accommodation and Cruise

You’ll stay in 4-star or 5-star hotels during your time in Cairo, with options ranging from the Cairo Pyramids Hotel to the Mercure Pyramids. Reviewers find these accommodations comfortable, though some mention that the hotels may be in need of upgrades—particularly in Cairo, where some facilities are a bit dated.

The Nile cruise, described as full-board, generally provides a good balance of comfort and scenic appeal. Some comments point out that the cruise ship may be somewhat older or basic, but the service and food are usually praised.

Transportation and Guide Service

Having private transfers, domestic flights, and guided tours means less time spent navigating logistics and more on sightseeing. Guides are consistently rated as friendly, professional, and knowledgeable, often going beyond expectations with storytelling and personalized attention.

Extra Costs and Tips

Be prepared for additional expenses for entrance fees, which total around $69 USD, and optional excursions. Reviewers recommend budgeting extra for these, as they can significantly increase the overall cost. Tipping is a big part of Egyptian culture—reviewers suggest carrying small bills for tips to guides, drivers, and other service staff.

Optional Tours and Extras

Many travelers found the optional tours worthwhile, especially Abu Simbel, Luxor, and Karnak. However, some express that these can be pricey—up to $129 USD for Abu Simbel or around $49 for Luxor and Karnak combined. Budgeting accordingly will ensure no surprises.

What to Bring

Small US dollar bills or Egyptian pounds for tips are essential. Also, consider bringing extra cash for entrance fees and souvenirs, as some reviewers noted the prices at shops and markets can be inflated, especially in tourist areas.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Reviewers consistently commend the guides’ storytelling and their willingness to share personal stories and local customs. For example, Mohamed in Cairo shared insights into Egyptian culture and cuisine, making the city come alive. Refaie on the cruise was praised for his storytelling, patience, and helpfulness.

Many reviewers appreciated the scenic views—especially during sunrise on the Nile or at sunset at the temples. Aswan’s Dam and Abu Simbel consistently stand out as awe-inspiring sites, with some travelers mentioning the drive to Abu Simbel as part of the adventure.

The dining experience on the cruise is also often highlighted, with many saying the food was delicious, offering a variety of local and international options.

The Sum Up

This private 7-night Egypt tour offers a well-rounded experience for those looking to see the country’s highlights with expert guidance and comfort. While optional excursions and entrance fees can add up, the value of seamless logistics, knowledgeable guides, and scenic cruising makes it worthwhile for most travelers.

It’s best suited for first-time visitors, history enthusiasts, and anyone who prefers a curated adventure without the hassle of planning individual bookings. Expect a balance of guided explorations, scenic Nile views, and cultural insights—delivered by passionate guides who truly love sharing Egypt’s stories.

For those who love storytelling, scenic vistas, and authentic cultural encounters, this tour is a memorable way to experience Egypt’s timeless treasures.

FAQs

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, pickup at Cairo International Airport is offered as part of the package, making arrival stress-free.

Are domestic flights included?
Yes, the tour price covers flights between Cairo/Aswan and Luxor/Cairo, saving time and effort on logistics.

What’s the accommodation like?
You can choose between 4-star and 5-star hotels in Cairo. The cruise ships are full-board and provide comfortable, scenic stays, though some reviews mention they are older.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are approximately $69 USD per person and are paid separately. Guides can help you with tickets.

What optional tours are available?
Popular extras include Abu Simbel, Luxor and Karnak temples, and the Sound and Light show. These can significantly increase your overall spend.

How much should I tip?
Tipping culture is strong; travelers are advised to carry small US dollar bills for guides, drivers, and staff, with suggested tips around 100 Egyptian pounds daily for guides.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention solo travelers felt safe, enjoyed the private guides, and appreciated the structured itinerary that takes the stress out of planning.

What is the best time to book?
Most bookings happen about 3 months in advance; avoid peak holidays like Christmas and New Year if you want to dodge extra surcharges.

This tour combines the convenience and comfort of a guided package with enough flexibility for personal exploration. With knowledgeable guides, scenic sites, and well-organized logistics, it’s an ideal choice for those wanting a comprehensive Egyptian adventure.