Discover Egypt 8-Days Cairo, Nile Cruise, Abu Simbel and Alexandria From Cairo

Traveling through Egypt can feel overwhelming, but this 8-day guided tour promises a well-organized way to see the country’s highlights without the stress of planning. It combines historic sites, a luxurious Nile cruise, and scenic train journeys — all with expert guides and comfortable transportation.

What we love about this experience? First, the inclusion of both land tours and a Nile cruise offers a variety of perspectives and scenery. Second, the expert Egyptian guides bring history vividly to life, making even the most famous monuments feel personal. Lastly, the balanced itinerary offers enough free time to soak in the atmosphere or explore independently.

A potential consideration? The long train rides—up to 14 hours from Cairo to Aswan—may be tiring for some travelers, though the first-class seating helps. This tour suits history lovers, first-timers, and those who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of organization.

Key Points

• All-inclusive guided tour with expert Egyptologists and comfortable transport.
• Includes a Nile cruise on a 5-star ship with full-board meals.
• Visits key sites in Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel, and Alexandria.
• Balanced mix of structured sightseeing and free time for personal exploration.
• Sustainable travel with cleaner, greener night trains.
• Excellent reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and great value.

The Overall Experience: Authentic Egypt in a Compact Package

This tour offers a carefully curated journey through Egypt’s most famous sights, designed for those who want an in-depth experience without the stress of planning. From the moment you land in Cairo, you’ll be greeted by a friendly representative, ready to set the tone for a smooth trip.

The highlight for many? The 3-night Nile cruise, which combines luxury with convenience, offering full-board meals and spectacular views. The cruise is on a 5-star vessel and offers a relaxing way to travel between Luxor and Aswan, while enjoying the scenery along the way.

The tour’s structure strikes a good balance: full days of exploration with some evenings free for optional activities or simply relaxing onboard. The guides, as several reviewers mention, are a wealth of knowledge and genuinely caring—many mention guides like Rocky and Abbas for their enthusiasm and attentiveness.

Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Arrival in Cairo

Arriving at Cairo Airport, your personal guide will meet you outside customs holding a sign. From here, the transfer to your hotel in Cairo or Giza is straightforward. On your first day, the rest of the time is yours—consider a visit to the pyramids with the sound and light show, or opt for a Nile dinner cruise.

This initial day sets a relaxed tone, allowing early arrivals to start soaking in Egypt’s iconic scenes without rushing.

Day 2: Pyramids, Saqqara, and Night Train to Luxor/Aswan

Starting early, you’ll visit Saqqara’s Step Pyramid, the oldest pyramid in Egypt, dating back to 4800 B.C. This site is less crowded than Giza and offers a taste of Egypt’s earliest monumental architecture.

Next, the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx greet you with their timeless majesty. Your Egyptologist guides share lively insights, making the stones come alive with stories of pharaohs and gods. Several reviews praise guides for their expertise and enthusiasm—“very caring and genuine,” as one guest described.

After a sumptuous lunch (or optional), you’ll head to the train station for your first-class train ride to Luxor or Aswan. The train journey, around 10-14 hours, might seem long, but it’s an authentic way to see Egypt’s rural landscapes and avoid domestic flights. You can upgrade to a sleeper train, which includes dinner and breakfast, for extra comfort.

Day 3: Aswan and the Nile Begins

Arriving in Aswan early, you’ll be met by your guide and transferred to your luxury Nile cruise. The ship’s 5-star amenities mean a comfortable start to your cruise adventure.

Highlights include Aswan High Dam — a marvel of modern engineering—and the Temple of Philae. Accessing the temple by boat adds a scenic touch many find memorable. The guide’s insights make these sites come alive, sharing stories of ancient gods and modern Egypt alike.

Day 4: Abu Simbel and Cruising South

A very early start takes you on a shared trip to Abu Simbel, a jaw-dropping temple complex carved into mountainside rock. Built for Ramesses II and Nefertari, these temples were relocated when Lake Nasser flooded the original site, an engineering feat in itself. Reviewers mention this as “one of the most impressive sites in Egypt,” and the guides make sure you get the most out of this visit.

Back on the cruise, you sail to Kom Ombo, home to a temple dedicated to both Horus and Sobek. The Crocodile Museum is an added bonus, giving insights into ancient Egyptian beliefs.

Day 5: Edfu and Luxor’s Temples

The morning includes a horse carriage ride to the Temple of Horus at Edfu, known as the most complete Egyptian temple, thanks to its excellent preservation. It’s a tangible link to Egypt’s religious practices.

Later, you arrive in Luxor, where the Luxor Temple dazzles at sunset. The guide’s stories help you understand how this site fits into the broader ancient city of Thebes. Evening entertainment like belly dancing adds a fun, cultural touch.

Day 6: West Bank Wonders

Today’s focus is the West Bank, home to Egypt’s royal tombs. Visiting the Valley of the Kings, you’ll see tombs carved into the mountains—each a treasure chest of ancient artifacts. Reviewers appreciate guides for their detailed explanations, making history feel accessible.

The Temple of Hatshepsut offers a striking photo opportunity, with towering statues and terraces. The Colossi of Memnon serve as a memorable finale to the tombs’ tour. Later, the massive Karnak Temple adds to the sense of grandeur with its towering columns and hieroglyphic walls.

In the evening, you’ll return to Cairo by train, reflecting on a day packed with history.

Day 7: Alexandria Day Trip

From Cairo, a 3-hour drive takes you to Alexandria. The city’s mix of Greek, Roman, and modern influences is palpable at sites like the Roman Theater and the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa. The New Library of Alexandria offers a contemporary contrast to the ancient ruins.

Travelers mention that the tour covers “the most significant spots,” with optional lunch adding flexibility. This day offers a change of scenery and a chance to see Egypt’s Mediterranean coast.

Day 8: Cairo’s Highlights

Your final day begins at the Egyptian Museum, home to Tutankhamun’s treasures and countless artifacts. The guide’s detailed explanations enrich the experience, making the collection more meaningful.

Then, explore Old Cairo with visits to Hanging Church and St. George’s Church, built into fortress walls. The vibrant Khan al-Khalili Bazaar is the perfect place to soak in local colors, aromas, and perhaps pick up souvenirs.

The tour ends with your transfer to the airport, leaving you with a comprehensive memory of Egypt’s treasures.

Why This Tour Delivers Value

With a price of $1,200 per person, this package offers exceptional value considering what’s included: full guided tours, comfortable transportation, a 3-night Nile cruise, and expert guides. The cost of individual entry fees, meals, and internal travel would easily add up if arranged separately.

Many reviews highlight the quality of guides—noted for their enthusiasm and depth of knowledge—which truly enhances the experience. The luxury cruise and first-class train journeys make long travel days more comfortable, adding to the overall value.

The tour’s flexible structure allows for some free time, giving you the chance to explore or relax on your own. Plus, the small group sharing Abu Simbel ensures a more personal experience without the crowds.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those new to Egypt, wanting to see major sights without logistical stress. History lovers will appreciate the detailed narratives from guides, and travelers seeking comfort will enjoy the luxury cruise and train options.

It’s also a good pick for travelers interested in a balanced itinerary—covering both ancient marvels and modern sites—without feeling rushed. If you’re someone who enjoys learning about different cultures with authentic, impactful experiences, this tour is likely to satisfy.

Final Thoughts on This Egypt Tour

This 8-day Egypt adventure combines the highlights of Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel, and Alexandria into a thoughtfully crafted package. It offers a seamless blend of guided sightseeing, scenic train journeys, and luxury cruising, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of travelers.

The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge, along with the well-chosen sites, ensure you’ll walk away with more than just photos—you’ll gain a richer understanding of Egypt’s story. While long train rides require patience, the overall value, comfort, and depth of experience make this tour a standout option for those who want a comprehensive, authentic taste of Egypt.

In essence, if you’re looking for a well-organized, culturally immersive journey with excellent guides and a mix of luxury and adventure, this tour delivers a memorable Egyptian experience.

FAQ

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, pickup from Cairo Airport or your hotel is offered, making arrival and departure smooth.

Are meals included during the land tours?
Meals on land are at your own expense, but the cruise offers full-board meals, including lunch and dinner.

Can I upgrade the train journey?
Yes, there is an option to upgrade to a sleeping train, which includes dinner and breakfast for an extra charge.

Are entrance fees included?
Entry fees to sites are not included in the price, and payments are mostly cash except for some sites like the High Dam and Philae temple motorboat.

What type of accommodation is provided on the cruise?
You’ll stay on a 5-star Nile cruise ship with full-board dining and comfortable amenities.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Child rates apply when sharing with two adults, and children from 5 to 11 are treated as adults. It’s suitable for families with older children.

How many travelers are on this tour?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

This detailed, well-balanced trip promises a true taste of Egypt’s history, culture, and scenic beauty—an experience that’s as enriching as it is enjoyable.