Sharm El-Sheikh: 10-Day Egypt Tour, Balloon, Flights

Traveling through Egypt in just 10 days sounds ambitious—and it absolutely is. This tour from Nice Tours promises to cover major highlights like Cairo, Luxor, Alexandria, and even a hot air balloon adventure over Luxor, all while maintaining a comfortable pace and offering valuable insights. While I haven’t done this exact itinerary myself, reviewing the detailed schedule and feedback from travelers makes it clear that this experience offers a fantastic mix of history, scenery, and unique moments.

What stands out most about this trip are the professional guides, the stunning views from the balloon ride, and the value for money considering the inclusions like flights, accommodations, and excursions. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite packed—so if you prefer a slow, unhurried pace, this might feel a bit rushed at times. But for those eager to tick off Egypt’s essentials in a relatively short span, this tour hits many of the right marks. It’s especially ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of culture, adventure, and comfort, all wrapped into one.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers Cairo, Luxor, Alexandria, and Sharm El-Sheikh with a blend of history, adventure, and relaxation.
• Expert Guides & Local Insights: Guides are praised for their knowledge, making each site more engaging.
• Value for Money: Includes flights, accommodations, and unique experiences like hot air ballooning at a competitive price.
• Authentic & Unique Experiences: Hot air balloon rides, Nile cruises, and visits to off-the-beaten-path temples.
• Balanced Pacing: Well-structured but fast-paced; suitable for travelers eager to see a lot.
• Potential for Rushing: Some may find the schedule demanding, especially on travel-heavy days.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the 10-Day Egypt Tour Experience

Starting in Sharm El-Sheikh and Mount Sinai

The adventure begins with a warm welcome upon arrival in Egypt, where a representative takes care of airport transfers to your hotel in Sharm El-Sheikh. This is an ideal starting point if you’re combining a beach getaway with cultural exploration. The highlight here is the night ascent to Mount Sinai at 8 pm, which is a spiritual, almost mystical experience. Watching the sunrise from the summit, known as the top of Mount Moses, is genuinely unforgettable. Many reviews mention the peaceful vibe and the feeling of connecting with ancient traditions.

You’ll also visit the oldest working Christian monastery, adding a layer of religious history to your journey. The early start the next day lets you relax and recover back at the hotel, with plenty of time to enjoy the hotel amenities or take in the desert views. This segment is perfect for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and spiritual reflection before heading to Cairo.

Cairo: Ancient Wonders and Urban Charm

The flight from Sharm El-Sheikh to Cairo kicks off a deep dive into Egypt’s iconic sites. The transfer to your hotel is smooth, and the first day is a full immersion into Egyptian history. You’ll visit the Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx, relics of a civilization that still fascinates millions. The guide, often noted for their thorough knowledge, enriches your understanding of how these monuments were built about 4,500 years ago.

Next, you explore Saqqara, home to the Step Pyramid, the oldest stone pyramid in Egypt. Travelers frequently comment on how the guide’s explanations make the ancient site come alive. After a traditional Egyptian lunch, an evening felucca sail on the Nile offers a peaceful, scenic end to the day, with many appreciating the gentle breeze and city lights reflecting on the river.

The Cairo Wildlife & Cultural Mix

On Day 4, the tour shifts gears with a visit to the African Safari Park, Egypt’s first open zoo in the Middle East. It’s a fun, interactive experience, especially for animal lovers. Guests have enjoyed feeding and touching animals like zebras and reindeer, with many mentioning how well the park captures the animals’ natural environments. It’s a genuine chance to experience wildlife in a safe, accessible way amidst the urban setting of Cairo.

More Great Tours Nearby

Luxor & the Hot Air Balloon Experience

Moving to Luxor, the journey begins on its East Bank with visits to Luxor Temple and Karnak, where you’ll see colossal columns and intricate hieroglyphics. Many provide glowing reviews of the guides’ storytelling, which helps make sense of the vast temple complexes. After lunch on the cruise ship, you’ll indulge in luxury aboard a 5-star Nile cruise, offering a relaxing night after a busy day.

The next morning kicks off one of the trip’s standout experiences: the hot air balloon ride. Travelers love how this is “probably the best experience in Luxor,” with breathtaking views of the Nile, the Valley of the Kings, and the sprawling ancient tombs below. Early mornings and a bit of a wait at the balloon launch are worth it for the panoramic pictures and a sense of floating over history.

West Bank & Edfu & Kom Ombo Temples

Starting with the Valley of the Kings, you get a close-up look at the tombs of pharaohs like Tutankhamun. Many mention the impressive scale and the intricate artwork inside. The Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon round out the day with more iconic sights. These sites are often praised for their grandeur and the way guides make their stories engaging.

Sailing the Nile, you’ll visit Horus Temple in Edfu, a beautifully preserved site representing a forgotten art of temple construction. It is often described as a “hidden gem,” showcasing the Ptolemaic style that differs from the more famous New Kingdom temples. Continuing to Kom Ombo, the unique double temple dedicated to Sobek and Horus gives insight into dual worship practices common in ancient Egypt, which visitors find fascinating.

Abu Simbel & Nubian Village

The visit to Abu Simbel is a highlight for many. This UNESCO site, carved into a mountainside, is often called Egypt’s most beautiful temple. The early start is demanding but well worth it, with many commenting on the sheer scale and artistry of Ramesses II’s temples. Afterward, a peaceful trip to the Nubian Village adds a local flavor, with colorful houses and authentic Egyptian cuisine, offering a gentle, cultural end to the busy day.

Alexandria & The Mediterranean Charm

Flying back to Cairo, you then explore Alexandria, often called Egypt’s pearl of the Mediterranean. The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa and Fort Qaitbey are highlights, rich in history and offering scenic views over the sea. Travelers enjoy the contrast between Egypt’s desert monuments and this coastal city’s vibrant, historic atmosphere. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina impresses with its modern take on ancient scholarship and is a must-see for architecture and history buffs alike.

Final Day: Old Cairo & Islamic Heritage

On the last day, you explore Old Cairo, visiting the Mosque of Muhammad Ali and the Mosque of Ibn Tulun. Climbing the minaret at Ibn Tulun is often praised for the stunning city views, and Khan el Khalili provides a lively, bustling market atmosphere perfect for souvenir shopping. Many comment on how this last day wraps up the journey with a sense of spiritual, cultural closure.

The Verdict: Is This Tour Worth It?

This 10-day package offers a well-rounded taste of Egypt’s highlights, balancing major landmarks with some lesser-known sites. The inclusions are comprehensive, with flights, accommodations, and excursions like hot air balloon rides included, which would cost significantly more if booked separately.

Travelers consistently praise the guides’ professionalism and their ability to make complex history understandable and engaging. The hot air balloon ride over Luxor is often described as a bucket list moment, offering unparalleled views of the Nile and the ancient tombs below.

In terms of value, the tour’s price of $1,150 per person is competitive given the extensive itinerary, flights, and accommodations. However, it’s worth noting that the schedule is packed—so travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace might find it slightly hectic.

The main considerations are the early mornings (especially at Abu Simbel and the balloon ride) and the busy travel days. But for those eager to see Egypt’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning each step, this tour offers an excellent value.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for history enthusiasts who want an in-depth experience of Egypt’s ancient sites, adventure lovers eager for the balloon ride and wildlife encounters, and luxury travelers comfortable with a packed schedule that combines comfort with adventure. It’s also a good choice if you’re looking for a value-packed package that includes most major expenses upfront.

On the other hand, if you prefer a slower pace or more personal time at each site, you might find this itinerary a little rushed. But for the curious traveler who wants to see as much as possible in a limited timeframe, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Is transportation provided throughout the tour?
Yes, private air-conditioned vehicles are included for airport transfers, local site visits, and intercity travel, making commuting comfortable and hassle-free.

Are meals included?
The tour includes lunch and dinner during some days, especially in Cairo and on the Nile cruise, but drinks like water are not included, so you should budget for those separately.

Does the tour cater to non-English speakers?
The guides primarily speak English, but the tour supports multiple languages including Arabic, French, German, and Spanish, with options for guides in those languages.

How many nights are spent on the cruise?
You’ll spend 3 nights aboard a 5-star Nile cruise ship, enjoying the luxury amenities and scenic views during your voyage between Luxor and Edfu/Kom Ombo.

What is the difficulty level of the activities?
Most activities involve walking and some climbing (e.g., the minarets, temples), but overall the tour is suitable for travelers with moderate mobility. The balloon ride requires a bit of a boat ride to the launch site.

Are there flexible payment options?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the core schedule is fixed, you can opt for additional services or upgrades, such as a deluxe cruise or different guides, depending on availability.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially for families with older children who enjoy history and adventure, though young children might find some early mornings and lengthy days challenging.

To sum it up, this 10-day Egypt tour offers a thoughtful blend of iconic sights, authentic experiences, and manageable pacing for eager travelers. It’s especially strong for those who want to maximize their time, enjoy expert guidance, and indulge in memorable activities like hot air ballooning over Luxor. With solid value and comprehensive inclusions, it’s an adventure worth considering for your Egyptian escape.

You can check availability for your dates here: