Full Egypt 12 Day Tour

Traveling to Egypt is often a bucket-list adventure, and a well-organized tour can make all the difference. This 12-day itinerary, offered by Sueño Travel Egipto, promises a thorough immersion into the country’s ancient wonders, bustling cities, and scenic landscapes. With the promise of expert guides, authentic experiences, and a focus on both major landmarks and hidden gems, this tour seems crafted for those eager to understand Egypt beyond just taking selfies at the pyramids.

From the legendary Pyramids of Giza to the mysterious White Desert, this trip packs a lot into just over a week. We love the way this tour blends history, culture, and scenic beauty, giving travelers a well-rounded Egyptian adventure. What stands out most are the knowledgeable Egyptologist guides, the inclusion of unique experiences like Felucca rides and desert excursions, and the opportunity to see both ancient relics and natural wonders.

A potential drawback? The itinerary is quite packed, which means long days and a fair amount of travel—something to consider if you’re seeking more relaxed pacing. Still, for travelers who want comprehensive coverage in a single trip and value local insights, this tour could be a perfect fit.

It’s especially suited for curious travelers, history buffs, or those keen to tick off Egypt’s major sites with expert guidance. If you’re after a blend of adventure, culture, and comfort, read on for a detailed look at what this tour offers—and what you can expect along the way.

Key Points

Expert Guides: Throughout the tour, you’ll be accompanied by knowledgeable Egyptologists who help decipher hieroglyphs and explain the significance of each site, adding depth to your experience.

Diverse Destinations: From Cairo’s museums and pyramids to the temples along the Nile and the mystical White Desert, this tour covers Egypt’s highlights with some lesser-known spots thrown in for good measure.

Authentic Experiences: Expect more than just sightseeing. Enjoy Felucca rides, visits to artisan workshops like the Papyrus Institute, and desert excursions that bring you closer to Egypt’s natural beauty and culture.

Value for Money: At $2,500 per person, this 12-day tour includes domestic flights, most meals, and guided visits, making it a comprehensive package that often offers better value than booking standalone excursions.

Comfortable Accommodation: The tour features nights at well-located hotels and a cruise ship along the Nile, balancing convenience with a taste of local hospitality.

Attention to Safety and Detail: With small group sizes (max 15 travelers) and clear logistics, the tour emphasizes safety, comfort, and personalized attention—important for a trip through a country with such diverse environments.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Arrival in Cairo
Your Egyptian adventure kicks off at Cairo airport, where staff will handle visa processing and transfer you to your hotel. This first day is all about settling in and enjoying some free time in the city. Cairo, being both the cultural and political heart of Egypt, offers an energetic introduction—think bustling markets, street cafes, and the looming presence of the Pyramids in the distance.

Day 2: Pyramids, Memphis, and Sakkara
The day begins with a visit to the famous Pyramids of Giza, including Cheops, Kefren, and Mecerinos, and the iconic Sphinx carved from rock. This is the highlight for most visitors. The tour then takes you to the Papyrus Institute, where you’ll see the craftsmanship behind Egypt’s ancient art forms.

Next, you’ll explore Memphis and Sakkara, two sites rich with history and archaeological significance. It’s noteworthy that the admission tickets are not included, so budget accordingly. From the reviews, travelers appreciate how guides explain hieroglyph deciphering and ancient texts, making these visits more than just photo ops.

Day 3: Abu Simbel’s Magnificent Temples
An early flight takes you from Cairo to Aswan, followed by a drive to Abu Simbel. The temples of Ramses II, carved out of solid rock, are awe-inspiring. A highlight here is the Sound and Light Show, which illuminates the history and legend of these ancient structures. Reviewers mention that the guides have detailed knowledge about the temples’ construction and the stories behind them, making the visit especially engaging.

Day 4: Abu Simbel and a Nile Felucca Ride
The morning offers a chance to see Abu Simbel by daylight—a different perspective on its grandeur. Returning to Aswan, you board a cruise ship on the Nile and enjoy a Felucca ride, a traditional Egyptian sailboat, providing a peaceful way to see the river’s scenery. Some travelers also opt for an optional Nubian village visit, which adds a cultural touch to the experience.

Day 5: Temples of Isis, Unfinished Obelisk, and Kom Ombo
Today’s focus is on religious and engineering marvels. The Temple of Isis at Philae is dedicated to the goddess of magic, and its riverside setting is stunning. The Unfinished Obelisk reveals the craftsmanship of Queen Hatshepsut’s era, with some reviewers noting how guides explain the techniques used in ancient stone carving.

Later, you visit the Greco-Roman temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to Sobek and Haroeris, emphasizing the blend of Egyptian and Greek influences. The crocodile and falcon motifs make this site particularly memorable.

Day 6: Edfu and Luxor
The temple of Horus in Edfu is hailed as the best-preserved temple in Egypt—expect detailed explanations about its architecture and religious significance. In Luxor, the tour visits Karnak, often described as an open-air museum with monumental columns and sacred lakes, and Luxor Temple, where statues of Ramses II and the Sphinx avenue dominate.

Travelers note the elaborate Hypostyle Hall at Karnak and the lively atmosphere at Luxor’s temple, especially at sunset. The guides’ insightful commentary makes these sites come alive.

Day 7: Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut’s Temple
A day dedicated to royal tombs. The Valley of the Kings is a highlight, with multiple tombs and elaborate wall paintings. Reviewers mention that exploring these tombs is a profound experience, especially with guides explaining the symbolism and history.

Next, the Temple of Hatshepsut is a striking terraced structure, and the Colossi of Memnon offer a dramatic photo opportunity. The journey continues with a road transfer to Hurghada for some beach relaxation.

Day 8-9: Relaxation at Hurghada
These days are all about unwinding. The hotel offers all-inclusive amenities, giving travelers the chance to enjoy the Red Sea’s beaches, watersports, or simply lounge by the pool. Reviewers appreciate the balance of sightseeing and downtime here.

Day 10: Cairo’s Museums and Citadel
Returning to Cairo, the Egyptian Museum houses thousands of artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun. The Cairo Citadel and Mohamed Ali Mosque offer sweeping views of the city and an insight into the Ottoman influence. Walking through Khan el Khalili bazaar and Moez Street adds authentic local flavor.

Day 11-12: White Desert and Baharyia Oasis
No other tour includes desert adventures quite like this. From Cairo, you’ll transfer to the Baharyia Oasis, then explore the Black Desert, the Valley of El Haiz, and Crystal Mountain formations. The highlight is camping overnight in the White Desert, with its wind-formed sculptures resembling faces and animals. Several reviews emphasize the unique, almost surreal landscape and the opportunity to see Egypt’s natural side beyond the ancient monuments.

The final day involves visiting the Museum of the Golden Mummies and the Noble Tombs before transferring to the airport for departure.

What We Loved About This Tour

The Expertise of Guides: Multiple reviews mention guides like Ahmed and others who are not only knowledgeable but also passionate about sharing Egypt’s stories. They explain hieroglyphs, temple functions, and historical context, elevating the experience well beyond mere sightseeing.

Authentic and Diverse Experiences: From visiting bustling Cairo markets to sailing on the Nile, exploring desert formations, and even enjoying hotel activities in Hurghada, this tour offers a broad spectrum of Egyptian life and landscapes.

Stunning Archaeological Sites: Sites like Abu Simbel, Karnak, and the Valley of Kings are breathtaking. Reviewers highlight how guides help interpret the significance of carvings, tombs, and temples, making each visit more meaningful.

Delicious Local Food and Cultural Touches: While not explicitly detailed in the itinerary, reviewers mention the quality of meals and the enjoyment of trying local dishes, often included during the cruise and other meals.

What to Keep in Mind

Pacing and Long Travel Days: The itinerary is ambitious, with early mornings, flights, and long drives. Travelers should be prepared for a busy schedule. Some reviews note the long days but also emphasize that the experience is worth the effort.

Cost vs. Value: At $2,500 per person, the tour includes domestic flights, most meals, guided visits, and accommodations, which some might find a good deal considering the scope and quality of experiences. It’s a comprehensive package that saves the hassle of organizing each component independently.

Group Size and Personal Attention: With a max of 15 travelers, the group is small enough to allow for personalized attention and more interaction with guides. Many reviews praise the attentive service and safety, especially for solo travelers or those new to Egypt.

The Sum Up

This 12-day Egypt tour offers an engaging blend of history, culture, and adventure. With expert guides, authentic experiences, and visits to major sites like the Pyramids, Abu Simbel, and the Valley of Kings, it provides a well-rounded Egyptian journey. The inclusion of desert excursions and Nile cruises ensures that you see both Egypt’s ancient marvels and its breathtaking landscapes.

Ideal for curious travelers who want to gain a deeper understanding of Egypt’s history, enjoy diverse activities, and appreciate local customs. The tour’s structured itinerary offers convenience without sacrificing authenticity, making it perfect for those who prefer guided comfort with a chance for genuine exploration.

While the days are busy, the experience promises lasting memories and insights that will stay with you long after you leave. If you’re eager to see Egypt’s iconic sights with knowledgeable guides and in a small group setting, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the small group size and guided structure make it suitable for solo travelers, especially those who want the security of a guided experience.

Are flights from Cairo to Aswan included?
Yes, the tour includes the domestic flight from Cairo to Aswan, simplifying travel logistics.

What meals are included?
Breakfast is included on most days. The tour also provides several lunches and dinners, with some nights spent on the cruise ship or at hotels.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This tour is pre-planned, but it’s best to check with Sueño Travel for any customization options.

What kind of accommodations are provided?
The tour includes nights at hotels in Cairo, Aswan, Hurghada, and a cruise ship along the Nile, balancing comfort with local flavor.

Is tipping required?
Tips are not included, so travelers should budget accordingly for guides, drivers, and staff.

How physically demanding is the tour?
While it involves walking around temples and archaeological sites, most activities are accessible to travelers in good health. Some sites may require climbing stairs or uneven terrain.

What should I pack?
Light comfortable clothing, sun protection, sturdy shoes, and a hat are recommended, especially for desert excursions and outdoor sites.

Embark on this journey if Egypt’s mysteries call to you, and prepare for an adventure filled with history, landscapes, and stories that will stay with you forever.