Hurghada: 8-Day Egypt Tour, Nile Cruise, Balloon, Flights

Traveling through Egypt is like flipping through a living history book, filled with awe-inspiring monuments, vibrant cities, and tranquil landscapes. This 8-day tour by Special Egypt offers a comprehensive experience, blending luxury travel with authentic encounters. It promises a well-balanced mix of cultural exploration, scenic beauty, and leisure—all wrapped into one memorable package.

What really makes this tour shine is its mix of activities: from floating along the Nile on a 5-star cruise, soaring over Luxor in a hot air balloon, to unwinding on pristine beaches. The tour also offers a taste of Alexandria’s coastal charm and a chance to see the iconic pyramids and ancient temples. It’s ideal for those who want to see Egypt’s most famous sights without feeling rushed, and who enjoy a mix of adventure, relaxation, and history.

However, a key consideration is the pace—though well-organized, it involves quite a bit of moving around with early starts and long drives. For travelers who prefer to stay in one place or take things slow, this might feel a bit intense. Still, if you’re eager to tick off some of Egypt’s top attractions in one trip, this experience offers fantastic value.

This tour is perfect for adventurous families, history buffs, and anyone looking for a well-rounded Egyptian adventure that balances sightseeing with downtime. Now, let’s get into the details so you can see whether this journey matches your travel dreams.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Combines Nile cruises, historic sites, and leisure days for a balanced experience.
• Expert-guided tours: Knowledgeable guides enrich the visit with insightful commentary.
• Scenic adventures: Hot air balloon rides and Nile views provide picture-perfect moments.
• Authentic cultural encounters: Visits to local villages and historical temples deepen your understanding.
• Good value: The price covers flights, accommodations, and activities, making it a convenient all-in-one package.
• Active pace: Expect early mornings and lots of moving between sites, ideal for energetic travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the 8-Day Egypt Experience

Arrival and First Day: Welcome to Hurghada

Your journey begins with a pickup from the airport, where a representative from Special Egypt will greet you. This smooth start allows you to relax knowing your trip logistics are sorted. Your first stop is Hurghada, a popular beach resort town, where you’ll settle into a hotel for the day. This initial day offers a chance to unwind after your flight and soak in the Red Sea views.

Day 2: Beach Time and Snorkeling at Paradise Island

The next day is all about leisure and natural beauty. The tour includes an excursion to Bay Orange Island or Paradise Island, depending on availability. Imagine white-sand beaches and water so clear it’s hard to tell where the sky ends and the sea begins. You’ll enjoy snorkelling among colorful marine life and relax on a beach that rivals the Maldives.

Guests frequently comment on the excellent buffet and friendly crew of the boat, adding to the day’s appeal. “The water was stunning and the food was surprisingly good,” one reviewer noted. It’s a great day for families or couples seeking downtime and scenic views. Returning to the hotel around 5 pm, you’ll have the evening free to dine and relax.

Day 3: Luxor’s Treasure Trove

Early breakfast kicks off the day, followed by a 4-hour transfer to Luxor—a city often called the world’s greatest open-air museum. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy breakfast before beginning your exploration. The focus is on the west bank, home to The Valley of the Kings and Queen Hatshepsut’s Mortuary Temple.

The Valley of the Kings is the highlight for many, housing tombs of ancient pharaohs. Visitors often express awe at the intricate carvings and hidden chambers. The nearby Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, with its striking terraces and grand design, reveals the architectural prowess of ancient Egypt. A quick stop at the Colossi of Memnon wraps up this leg.

Post-tour, you’ll board a luxury 5-star Nile cruise for the night, where you can unwind in comfort. The cruise offers a relaxing atmosphere, with plenty of amenities to enjoy. As the sun sets, a Felucca ride along the Nile provides scenic sunset views and a peaceful end to a busy day.

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Day 4: Hot Air Balloon Adventure and Luxor East Bank

Start your day early with a hot air balloon ride over Luxor. This is often praised as a top highlight—seeing the ancient temples and river from above is truly surreal. Guests mention the magical views of Luxor drifting below, which makes this experience worth waking up early.

After landing, your private guide and driver will take you to Luxor’s east bank, home to the Karnak Temple and the Luxor Temple. The Karnak complex, a sprawling site built over 1500 years, is filled with towering columns, obelisks, and statues. It’s a testament to Egypt’s grandeur and impressive engineering.

In the evening, the cruise starts sailing northward, making this a seamless blend of adventure and relaxation. The Nile views from the cruise allow you to appreciate Egypt’s lifeblood—the river that shaped its history.

Day 5: Exploring Edfu and Kom Ombo

The cruise continues to Edfu, where a special visit to the Horus Temple awaits. Known for its remarkably well-preserved Ptolemaic architecture, many visitors comment on the beauty and detail of this less-frequented site. It’s a genuine highlight for history enthusiasts.

Later, you’ll reach Kom Ombo, famed for its unique double-temple dedicated to Sobek (the crocodile god) and Haroeris (the falcon-headed god). The guide often shares fascinating facts about the temple’s dual purpose, making this stop both educational and intriguing.

The cruise offers ample downtime to relax and enjoy the river scenery, with most guests appreciating the leisurely pace and scenic vistas.

Day 6: The Wonders of Abu Simbel and Nubian Village

An early morning trip takes you to Abu Simbel, a UNESCO World Heritage site carved into a mountainside by Ramses II. The grandeur of these statues and the story behind their construction leave visitors in awe. Many reviewers describe it as a “must-see” because of its monumental scale and historical significance.

Afterward, the tour includes a visit to a Nubian village, providing insight into a vibrant culture often overlooked by typical travelers. Enjoy a traditional Egyptian lunch here and learn about local life, adding a personal touch to the trip.

Later, you’ll fly from Aswan to Cairo, where your guide will assist with transfers to your hotel. The transition from the south to the capital allows you to see more of Egypt’s diverse landscapes.

Day 7: The Pyramids and Cairo’s Museum

The iconic Great Pyramids of Giza are a fitting climax to your journey. Standing beside these ancient structures, many travelers describe feeling a profound connection to history. Your guide will likely share lesser-known facts to enrich your visit.

Next, the Egyptian Museum houses countless artifacts, including treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb. It’s a treasure trove for history lovers eager to understand Egypt’s past.

In the evening, a dinner cruise with folkloric entertainment adds a fun, cultural finale, letting you dine while enjoying traditional music and dance.

Day 8: Alexandria’s Coastal Charm

Your last day takes you to Alexandria, a city famed for its storied past and coastal beauty. The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa impress with their blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina offers a modern-world contrast, symbolizing Egypt’s rich intellectual history.

Finally, a visit to Fort Qaitbey—a formidable fortress built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria—rounds out your trip with stunning sea views and a touch of maritime history. After enjoying a local lunch, your driver will escort you back to your hotel in Giza or Cairo for departure.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $1,050 per person, this comprehensive package packs in flights, hotel stays, guided tours, and scenic experiences. For travelers eager to see Egypt’s highlights without the hassle of planning each detail, it offers excellent value. The inclusion of a Nile cruise, hot air balloon ride, and access to key monuments means you’re covering a lot of ground in a well-organized way.

The cost also reflects the added convenience—flights are included, and accommodations are on a 5-star cruise, ensuring comfort after long days of sightseeing. The guided elements provide depth, with knowledgeable guides sharing insights that bring the sites alive. Many reviews mention how guides like Mohamed, who’s known for being friendly and informative, significantly enhance the experience.

Practical Considerations

While the itinerary is packed, the early mornings and long drives are worth noting. Be prepared for some busy days, especially the trip to Abu Simbel, which involves a longer transfer. The cruise’s scheduled activities, like the balloon ride and temple visits, are timed carefully to maximize your experience but do require prompt starts.

If you’re someone who prefers a relaxed travel pace, this might feel a bit intense. However, for those wanting a complete Egyptian experience with minimal fuss, the tour’s value outweighs the busy schedule.

Final Thoughts

This 8-day Egypt tour offers a rich blend of cultural, historical, and scenic moments, all curated for convenience and comfort. You’ll love the chance to see iconic sites like the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings, and Abu Simbel, all while enjoying the luxury of a Nile cruise and the thrill of a hot air balloon ride.

The guides’ knowledge and friendly service elevate the experience, making complex historical stories accessible and engaging. The inclusion of leisure days and beach excursions provides a welcome balance, preventing the trip from feeling overwhelming.

For travelers who want to maximize their time in Egypt and experience its most celebrated sights in one seamless package, this tour is a compelling choice. It suits those with a sense of adventure, curiosity about history, and a love for diverse landscapes—from deserts to riverbanks and coastal towns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, with plenty of scenic and educational activities suitable for children and adults alike. Just keep in mind the early mornings and long drives.

Are flights included in the tour price?
Yes, the price covers the flight tickets, making it a convenient all-in-one package. You won’t need to book separate flights, simplifying the process.

What is the accommodation like?
Guests stay on a 5-star Nile cruise ship for three nights, which offers luxury amenities and comfortable cabins. The initial hotel in Hurghada and Cairo are also rated as good quality accommodations.

How active is the itinerary?
Expect early mornings, temple visits, and some walking involved, especially at sites like the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple. The hot air balloon ride is a highlight but requires waking up early.

Are guide services included?
Yes, a professional English-speaking guide accompanies you during excursions, offering insights into the sites. Guides can also speak other languages like Spanish, German, or French for an additional fee.

Can I customize the tour?
While the itinerary is fixed, you can choose different cruise options (Deluxe or Luxury) or add extra days. Check with the provider if you have specific preferences.

This tour offers a fantastic way to see Egypt’s most beautiful and significant sites while enjoying comfortable travel and expert guidance. Whether you’re a history lover or simply seeking an adventure packed with stunning sights, this 8-day experience provides a well-rounded and memorable journey through Egypt’s ancient and modern marvels.

You can check availability for your dates here: