Kings of Ancient Egypt : 6 Days Cairo and Luxor Guided Tours & Overnight Train

Exploring Egypt’s Ancient Treasures: A 6-Day Guided Tour of Cairo and Luxor

If you’re dreaming of standing amid the great pyramids or wandering through ancient temples, this 6-day guided tour offers a comprehensive taste of Egypt’s most iconic sights. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews highlight its smooth organization, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see some truly breathtaking monuments.

What we love about this tour is how it balances comfort with authenticity—especially with the inclusion of expert guides who bring history alive, the seamless transfers that make travel hassle-free, and the opportunity to experience both Cairo’s bustling cityscape and Luxor’s tranquil temples. The overnight train adds a touch of adventure, offering a real sense of Egyptian life while saving on accommodation costs.

One thing to keep in mind is that entrance fees to sights are not included, so you’ll want to budget accordingly for those. This tour is best suited for history lovers eager for a well-organized, immersive experience but who also appreciate comfortable travel arrangements.

Key Points

• Expert Guides Enhance Your Experience: Knowledgeable guides like Talaat Abdo and Khaled clearly add value, making complex history accessible and interesting.
• Comfort and Convenience Are Key: From airport pickups to hotel stays and train travel, the tour takes care of logistics so you can focus on exploring.
• A Balance of Sites: Combines the must-see Pyramids with lesser-known gems like Saqqara and Memphis, plus Luxor’s temples and tombs for a well-rounded trip.
• Authentic and Authentic: Guided visits at key sites like the Valley of the Kings are detailed, with reviews praising the passion and expertise of guides.
• Sightseeing Flexibility: While the itinerary is packed, it allows for meaningful exploration of each site, with time to soak in the views and history.
• Value for Money: For $399, you get a solid mix of guided tours, accommodations, and train travel, making it a cost-effective way to see Egypt’s highlights.

An In-Depth Look at the 6-Day Egypt Tour

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Your Hotel

The journey begins with a pickup from Cairo airport, where a friendly guide greets you and whisks you to your hotel in Giza or Cairo. The transfer takes about an hour, giving you a relaxed start to your Egyptian adventure. The inclusion of a flexible pickup service ensures you won’t be left wandering after a long flight, which travelers repeatedly appreciated.

Day 2: Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, and Saqqara

The highlight here is the morning visit to the Giza Plateau, home to the legendary Pyramids of Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinus. While entrance tickets aren’t included, the experience of seeing these colossal structures is priceless. The guide will share stories behind their construction and significance, making the visit more engaging.

Next, you’ll stop at the Great Sphinx, which has been mystifying visitors for centuries. From here, the tour moves to Saqqara, where the Step Pyramid of King Djoser—the oldest major stone structure—awaits. This site is a must-see for those interested in the evolution of pyramid design.

The day wraps with a visit to the Mit Rahina Museum in Memphis, revealing how Egypt’s ancient capital served as a cultural and political hub for over 3,000 years. Reviewers mention the guides’ knowledge about Memphis’ historical context, adding depth to the visit.

In the evening, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, likely in a pyramid-view room if available—an extra treat for those who love to wake up with a view of Egypt’s most famous landmarks.

Day 3: Cairo’s Islamic and Coptic Heritage, and the Egyptian Museum

After breakfast, the tour switches to Cairo’s spiritual side—visiting the Saladin Citadel and Mohamed Ali Mosque, where the architecture and views over Cairo are stunning. Reviewers note the guides’ engaging storytelling, which helps make sense of the complex history of the area.

The trip continues into Coptic Cairo, home to the hanging church, the church of the Holy Family, and the Ben Ezra Synagogue. These sites offer a glimpse into Egypt’s diverse religious history.

The highlight of the day is a visit to the Egyptian Museum, where you can see treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb and other ancient artifacts. While entrance tickets aren’t included, the guided commentary makes the visit worthwhile.

In the evening, you’ll head to Cairo train station for your overnight journey to Luxor. You can opt for a seated train, upgrade to a sleeper, or even choose a VIP bus—giving you flexibility depending on your comfort preferences and budget.

Day 4: Luxor’s Temples and Rich History

Early morning arrival in Luxor is a highlight, as you’re whisked to your hotel for some rest before exploring. The afternoon tour includes Karnak Temple, a sprawling complex filled with giant columns, hypostyle halls, and the sacred lake. Reviewers praise guides for their detailed explanations, helping you appreciate the temple’s architectural marvels.

Next, the Luxor Temple itself offers a fascinating look at how different pharaohs left their mark. The guide points out features that reveal its centuries-long construction history.

Day 5: The Necropolis and Queen Hatshepsut’s Temple

The west bank of Luxor is where history feels like it’s alive—starting with the Valley of the Kings, where 66 tombs hold the remains of pharaohs and nobles. Though entrance fees aren’t included, the experience of walking among these ancient chambers is unforgettable.

The visit continues at Deir el-Bahari, where Queen Hatshepsut’s temple is a masterpiece of mortuary architecture. Reviewers highlight guides’ passion in explaining Hatshepsut’s unique reign and the temple’s design.

Finally, the Colossi of Memnon provide a dramatic photo stop and an insight into Egypt’s giant statues—free to view but impressive.

In the evening, you’ll return to the train station for your overnight journey back to Cairo, completing the loop of this Egyptian adventure.

Day 6: Return to Cairo and Departure

Arriving early morning in Cairo, you’re transferred straight to the airport or your preferred drop-off point. The seamless logistics and well-organized schedule make this a stress-free way to end your trip.

Overall Value and Experience

At $399, this tour offers a lot. It combines guided visits to Egypt’s most famous landmarks with comfortable accommodations and transportation, including the overnight train. The inclusion of expert guides enhances the experience, ensuring you not only see the sights but understand their stories.

While entrance fees are not included, the cost still represents excellent value considering the curated itinerary, hotel stays, and train travel. The reviews consistently praise guides like Talaat Abdo and Khaled Elsaady for their knowledge and passion—something that truly elevates the trip.

The experience is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to Egypt’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s ideal for those who enjoy history, culture, and a touch of adventure in their travels.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day tour of Cairo and Luxor delivers a balanced mix of ancient marvels, cultural insights, and comfortable logistics. It caters well to those who value guided expertise and wish to see Egypt’s most iconic sites without the stress of arranging transportation or accommodations.

The overnight train adds a layer of authenticity and adventure, giving you a taste of local travel while saving on hotel costs. Plus, the flexibility to upgrade or choose your train type means you can tailor the experience to your comfort level.

Most travelers will appreciate the well-paced itinerary and the knowledgeable guides who make history come alive. With a strong reputation and glowing reviews, this tour proves it’s possible to explore Egypt’s key sights comfortably, affordably, and with real insight.

FAQs

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes a pickup from Cairo airport, ensuring a smooth start to your trip.

Are entrance fees to the sights included?
No, entrance tickets are not included, so you’ll need to budget for those separately.

What transportation is used between destinations?
Transfers are provided in comfortable vehicles, and the overnight train is included for the Cairo-Luxor segment.

Can I upgrade the train to a sleeper?
Yes, there is an option to upgrade to a sleeper train for $80 USD extra per person, which includes dinner and breakfast.

How many guides will I have?
The reviews mention guides like Talaat Abdo, Khaled Elsaady, and others—indicating multiple guides, all providing personalized insights.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should check specific site accessibility.

What is the hotel accommodation like?
You will stay in a private room at a 4-star hotel in Giza and Luxor, most likely with breakfast included.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included with hotel stays, but other meals are not covered.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, making for an intimate experience.

How flexible is the schedule?
The itinerary is packed but well-structured, with some optional upgrades and choices like the train class.

This guided tour of Egypt blends ancient splendors with modern comfort, making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a thoughtfully curated adventure through one of history’s most fascinating landscapes.