13 Day Egypt Christmas & New Year Tour: Nile, Desert & Abu Simbel

From: $1500
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Tour Details

Duration
13 Days / 12 Nights
Tour Location
Cairo / Alexandria / Luxor / Abu Simbel / Bahariya Oasis
Tour Type
Daily Tour
Pickup
Cairo Airport

Magical 13 Day Egypt Christmas & New Year Tour

This 13 day Egypt Christmas New Year tour by Tripidays is carefully designed to take you step by step through Egypt’s most iconic destinations during the festive season. From ancient pyramids and Nile cruising to desert adventures and historic Cairo, this tour blends culture, comfort, and holiday spirit into one seamless journey, making it ideal for Christmas and New Year travelers.

On Day 1, arrive in Cairo and enjoy a festive Nile dinner cruise. Day 2 is all about the Giza Pyramids, the Sphinx, and the Grand Egyptian Museum. Day 3 takes you to Alexandria to visit the Catacombs, Qaitbay Citadel, and Bibliotheca Alexandrina. Fly to Luxor on Day 4 to explore Luxor Temple and Karnak, then sail the Nile. Days 5–7 cover the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and the unforgettable Abu Simbel Temples.

Why Book This Tour

  • Celebrate Christmas and New Year on the Nile and in the desert
  • Unique Bahariya Oasis and White Desert camping experience
  • Festive holiday atmosphere with special seasonal experiences
  • Expert Egyptologist guides for immersive cultural insights
  • Private air-conditioned vehicles for smooth travel
  • Seamless itinerary with all logistics handled
  • Carefully selected hotels, Nile cruise, and desert camp stay
  • Balanced pace from Cairo to Upper Egypt and the Western Desert
  • 24/7 dedicated customer support throughout your trip

Included

  • Meet & assist with the Tripidays representative at Cairo International Airport
  • 7 Nights of accommodations in a Cairo hotel
  • 4 Nights onboard a 5-star Nile cruise
  • 1 Night accommodation in Desert Camp
  • Private air-conditioned transportation throughout
  • Domestic flights: Cairo → Luxor / Aswan → Cairo
  • All entrance fees to the listed attractions
  • One bottle of water during the tours
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • Our assistance during your stay
  • All Taxes and Charges

Excluded

  • International flights to/from Cairo
  • Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra meals, etc.)
  • Tips for guides and drivers
  • Travel insurance
  • Egypt entry visa
  • Optional activities

Highlights

Giza Attractions

  • The Great Pyramids of Giza
  • The Great Sphinx of Giza
  • The Valley Temple
  • The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)

Aswan Attractions

  • The High Dam
  • Unfinished Obelisk
  • Philae Temple
  • Abu Simbel Temples
  • Kom Ombo Temple
  • Edfu Temple

Luxor Attractions

  • Luxor Temple
  • Karnak Temple
  • Hatshepsut Temple
  • Valley of the Kings
  • Colossi of Memnon

Cairo Attractions

  • Salah El Din Citadel
  • Muhammad Ali Mosque
  • Sultan Hassan Mosque
  • Al Rifai Mosque
  • The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC)

Cairo Attractions

  • The Hanging Church
  • Amr Ibn Al Aas Mosque
  • The Ben Ezra Synagogue
  • Al Muizz Street
  • Khan El-Khalili Bazaar

Alexandria Attractions

  • Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa
  • Pompey's Pillar
  • Qaitbay Citadel
  • Bibliotheca Alexandria

Bahariya Oasis Attractions

  • The Black Desert
  • The Crystal Mountain
  • The White Desert
  • Museum of the Golden Mummies

Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrive in Cairo & Dinner Cruise

    After landing at Cairo International Airport, your Tripidays representative greets you with warm Egyptian hospitality and festive cheer, escorting you to your hotel in Cairo. Settle in before your first evening celebration on the Nile.

    meal

    Nile Dinner Cruise

    Board a traditional vessel for your first festive evening on the legendary river, an unforgettable highlight of thoughtfully designed Egypt 13 day travel packages. Enjoy authentic Egyptian cuisine, live traditional music, and folkloric dance performances as Cairo's holiday lights shimmer across the water. This is your first taste of the Christmas spirit that infuses every moment of this 13 day Egypt Christmas itinerary.


    meal

    Meals

    Dinner

  • Day 2: Discovering the Giza Pyramids & GEM

    Meet your expert Egyptologist guide after breakfast and journey to the Giza Plateau, where the last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World awaits. Today unveils the engineering genius of ancient Egypt, perfectly timed for the holiday season when the desert air is crisp, and crowds are lighter.

    The Great Giza Pyramids

    Stand before the Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, the only surviving structures of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Your guide decodes the construction techniques and astronomical alignments that created these 4,500-year-old monuments

    The Valley Temple

    Walk through the ancient religious complex connected to the Pyramid of Khafre, where pharaohs performed purification rituals before ascending to the afterlife. The granite precision reveals Old Kingdom spiritual engineering.

    The Sphinx

    Marvel at the legendary Great Sphinx of Giza, a limestone guardian carved from a single ridge. Learn about its mythological significance as the protector of the Giza necropolis and the ongoing debates surrounding its age.

    Grand Egyptian Museum

    Step into the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) to see the wonders of Egypt and discover the treasures of King Tutankhamun. With over 100,000 artifacts, this museum is a centerpiece of your Egyptian New Year travel package.


    meal

    Meals

    Breakfast, Lunch

  • Day 3: Alexandria Catacombs & Qaitbay Citadel

    After breakfast, meet your guide for a scenic drive to Alexandria, Egypt's Mediterranean gem. Feel the excitement of discovering a city rich in Greco-Roman history and holiday spirit along the winter coastline.

    Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa

    Descend into this maze of tombs, blending Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artistic influences. Each chamber tells the story of Alexandria's multicultural ancient past and the evolution of burial traditions across civilizations.

    Pompey's Pillar

    Admire this imposing 25-meter red Aswan granite column, the only remaining relic of the ancient Serapeum temple complex. Learn about its misattribution to Pompey and the archaeological remains of the temple's underground galleries.

    Qaitbay Citadel

    Explore the Qaitbay Citadel, built on the site of the Lighthouse of Alexandria. Its sturdy walls and majestic location offer stunning views of the sea. Couples looking for a more romantic pace can browse our Egypt couples itinerary ending with a Sharm El Sheikh coastal retreat.

    Bibliotheca Alexandria

    Explore the stunning modern tribute to the legendary ancient Library of Alexandria. Admire the contemporary architectural design, the vast reading room, and the museums within, including the Manuscript Museum and Planetarium.


    meal

    Meals

    Breakfast, Lunch

  • Day 4: Discover Luxor's East Bank

    After breakfast and checkout from the hotel in Cairo, your Tripidays representative transfers you to Cairo Airport for your flight to Luxor, ancient Thebes, where festive decorations now adorn the temple avenues. Upon arrival, board your Nile cruise vessel and settle into your cabin.

    Luxor Temple

    Walk through this beautifully illuminated Luxor temple in the evening, connected to Karnak by the ancient Avenue of Sphinxes. Learn about the Opet Festival, where pharaohs renewed their divine authority, and admire the colossal seated statues of Ramesses II.

    Karnak Temple

    Explore Karnak Temple, one of Egypt’s largest religious sites. Its massive columns and detailed hieroglyphs reveal centuries of craftsmanship.


    meal

    Meals

    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 5: Explore Luxor West Bank

    Cross the Nile after breakfast to the legendary West Bank, where Egypt's greatest pharaohs chose eternity. Your Egyptologist guide leads you through hidden tombs and monumental temples.

    Valley of the Kings

    Step into the Valley of the Kings, resting place of Tutankhamun and other pharaohs. Marvel at intricate hieroglyphs and tomb treasures.

    Hatshepsut Temple

    Visit the Temple of Hatshepsut, carved into cliffs and celebrating one of Egypt’s most powerful female rulers. Its terraces are a stunning sight.

    Colossi of Memnon

    See the Colossi of Memnon, two massive statues guarding the Nile. Legends and history come alive as you stand before these ancient giants.


    meal

    Meals

    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 6: Discover Edfu & Kom Ombo

    As your festive Nile cruise sails south through the fertile river valley, wake to a day of extraordinary temple discoveries. After breakfast on board, your guide accompanies you to two architecturally distinctive sacred sites.

    temple of edfu

    Edfu Temple

    Walk through the best-preserved Edfu Temple in Egypt, dedicated to Horus, the falcon god. Pass through grand pylons and colonnaded courtyards while your guide recounts the mythological battle between Horus and Seth that defined ancient Egyptian cosmology.

    temple kom ombo

    Kom Ombo Temple

    Visit Kom Ombo Temple, unique for its double dedication to Sobek and Horus. Discover its fascinating history and symbolism.


    meal

    Meals

    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 7: Explore Abu Simbel Temples

    Grab your breakfast boxes before dawn and journey south to Abu Simbel, the highlight of your Egypt 13 day December holiday. Watch the sunrise over Lake Nasser as you approach these monumental temples, their colossal statues glowing in the morning light.

    Abu Simbel Temples 

    Stand before the awe-inspiring rock-cut temples of Ramesses II, carved directly into the mountainside with four colossal 20-meter seated statues. Learn about the remarkable UNESCO rescue project that dismantled 1,035 blocks and relocated them 65 meters higher to protect them from Lake Nasser's rising waters. For travelers who want to extend their time on the water beyond the Nile, consider our dual-cruise itinerary combining the Nile and Lake Nasser.


    meal

    Meals

    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 8: Discover the Unfinished Obelisk & Philae Temple

    After breakfast and checkout from your Nile cruise, your guide meets you for a day exploring Aswan's engineering marvels and the rescued temples before your flight back to Cairo.

    Aswan High Dam

    Visit the monumental engineering feat completed in 1970 that transformed Egypt's agriculture and ended millennia of Nile flooding. Your guide explains the dam's construction and how it created Lake Nasser.

    Unfinished Obelisk

    See the largest obelisk ever attempted in ancient Egypt, still attached to the bedrock in Aswan's northern quarries. Imagine the colossal scale and the skill required to carve and transport such a monolith.

    Philae Temple

    Take a short boat ride to Philae Temple, dedicated to Isis. Its relocation and preservation make it an extraordinary site.


    meal

    Meals

    Breakfast, Lunch

  • Day 9: Cairo Citadel & Islamic Mosques

    After breakfast, meet your guide and ascend to the medieval fortress that commanded Cairo for eight centuries. Today, bridges pharaonic wonders with Islamic grandeur during the festive season when Cairo's streets sparkle with holiday lights.

    Salah El Din Citadel

    Explore the medieval fortress built by Saladin in 1176. Walk its ramparts and enjoy sweeping panoramic views over Cairo's sea of minarets, domes, and modern sprawl stretching to the horizon.

    Muhammad Ali Mosque 

    Marvel at the Muhammad Ali Mosque, an Ottoman masterpiece with towering minarets and gleaming white marble. Its grandeur perfectly reflects Egypt’s rich architectural heritage.

    Sultan Hassan Mosque

    Visit the Sultan Hassan Mosque, a 14th-century marvel of Mamluk architecture. Its majestic arches and intricate details transport you back in time.

    Al Rifai Mosque

    Explore the royal mausoleum of Egypt, combining Ottoman and Mamluk styles. This is the final resting place of Egypt's royal family and notable figures, including the Shah of Iran.


    meal

    Meals

    Breakfast, Lunch

  • Day 10: Bahariya Oasis & Black Desert

    Leave Cairo behind after breakfast and journey into Egypt's dramatic Western Desert. Feel the thrill of adventure as the holiday season casts a magical glow over the sand dunes. This Bahariya Oasis desert adventure is exclusive to your Christmas Egypt tour in 13 days.

    Bahariya Oasis

    Arrive at Bahariya Oasis, a lush desert retreat with palm groves and natural springs. Its serene beauty is a perfect backdrop for festive holiday photos.

    The Black Desert

    Explore where volcanic rock formations rise from golden sands. Hike up Gebel al-Ingleez for breathtaking panoramic views of this otherworldly landscape.

    The Crystal Mountain

    Visit this sparkling geological wonder with quartz and limestone formations. Capture the surreal beauty of this desert gem that glitters like ice under the winter sun.

    The White Desert

    Experience Egypt's most surreal landscape, famous for its otherworldly white limestone formations sculpted by wind erosion. The setting sun casts a golden glow over the chalk-white sculptures, creating a magical Christmas Eve atmosphere found nowhere else on Earth. As an alternative option, families traveling with children can explore our Egypt family itinerary with a desert safari and Red Sea beach stay.


    meal

    Meals

    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 11: Visit the Museum of the Golden Mummies

    Wake up to the quiet beauty of the desert and enjoy breakfast surrounded by nature. The crisp morning air enhances the magical feeling of your 13 days Christmas tour in Egypt before returning to Cairo.

    The Museum of the Golden Mummies

    Discover over 100 elaborately preserved Greco-Roman mummies adorned with gold masks in Bawiti. Learn about ancient Egyptian burial rituals, the craftsmanship that has endured for millennia, and the unique fusion of Egyptian and Greek artistic traditions.


    meal

    Meals

    Breakfast

  • Day 12: Old Cairo & Khan El Khalili

    Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before your final day of cultural exploration. Egypt's history and holiday atmosphere come alive as you explore Old Cairo, where Christmas decorations adorn the ancient churches during this festive season.

    The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization 

    Visit NMEC, home to a 7,000 year history of Egypt. From royal mummies like Ramses II and Seti I to artifacts spanning prehistoric to modern times, the museum brings Egypt’s civilization to life.

    Hanging Church

    Step into the Hanging Church, one of Cairo’s oldest Coptic churches. Its frescoes, wooden carvings, and historical significance make it a must-see.

    Amr Ibn Al Aas Mosque

    Visit Egypt's first mosque, founded in 641 CE. This serene spiritual landmark reflects the early Islamic heritage and architectural simplicity of the first century of Islam.

    The Ben Ezra Synagogue

    Explore Ben Ezra Synagogue, a historic site linked to the story of Moses. Admire its stained glass and preserved artifacts.

    Al Muizz Street

    Stroll along Al Muizz Street, one of Cairo’s oldest avenues, full of festive decorations and magnificent Islamic architecture.

    Khan El-Khalili Bazaar

    End your day at Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, a bustling marketplace perfect for picking up unique Christmas gifts and souvenirs.


    meal

    Meals

    Breakfast, Lunch

  • Day 13: Departure from your Egypt Christmas New Year tour

    Enjoy a final festive breakfast in Cairo, soaking in the holiday spirit before departing. Reflect on the magical moments from your 13 day December holiday in Egypt, from pyramids to desert camps to Nile sunsets.

    Departure

    Check out smoothly with Tripidays' assistance, and transfer to Cairo Airport for your onward journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tripidays’ Egypt New Year travel package includes flights between Cairo and Luxor, Nile cruise accommodations, a professional Egyptologist tour guide of major attractions like the Giza Pyramids, Abu Simbel Temples, Luxor Temple, and Alexandria’s landmarks. Meals, hotel stays, and all entrance fees to the scheduled sites are also included.

This purpose-built 13 day Egypt Christmas New Year tour includes exclusive festive experiences like Christmas Eve camping in the White Desert and holiday-season pricing. Unlike standard cruises, it combines the Nile with Bahariya Oasis desert adventures for a truly seasonal celebration.

Absolutely. The Bahariya Oasis desert camp is family-friendly with comfortable Bedouin-style tents, festive dinners around a bonfire, and all essential facilities. Children love the otherworldly white limestone formations, making it a magical Christmas Eve experience for all ages.

All domestic flights (Cairo–Luxor, Aswan–Cairo) are included and arranged by Tripidays. Our representative meets you at each airport, handles check-in, and ensures seamless transfers to your hotel or cruise, with no logistics stress during your holiday.

This itinerary includes the Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan, the Golden Mummies Museum in Bahariya, and the complete Old Cairo religious complex (Hanging Church, Ben Ezra Synagogue, Amr Ibn Al Aas Mosque) sites, often skipped by shorter tours.

What to Pack

Hat Backpack Comfy Shoes
Powerbank Medical Kit Comfy Clothes
Sunglasses & Sunscreen Personal Hygiene Products Valid Passport For 6 Months

Tour Locations

Tour Prices

From Jan 2026 to Apr 2026
  • Solo $4080
  • 2 - 4 Pax $2460
  • 5 - 8 Pax $1980
  • 9 - 16 Pax $1850
From May 2026 to Sep 2026
  • Solo $3390
  • 2 - 4 Pax $2080
  • 5 - 8 Pax $1620
  • 9 - 16 Pax $1500
From Oct 2026 to Dec 2026
  • Solo $4110
  • 2 - 4 Pax $2480
  • 5 - 8 Pax $1990
  • 9 - 16 Pax $1850
Xmas 21 Dec - 7 Jan Easter 29 Mar - 11 Apr
  • Solo $4810
  • 2 - 4 Pax $2870
  • 5 - 8 Pax $2380
  • 9 - 16 Pax $2240
Cairo : Cleopatra Hotel – Cosmopolitan Hotel – Pyramids Park Resort or similar
Cruises: MS Radamis II – MS Royal Ruby I – MS Medea – MS Nile Quest or similar
From Jan 2026 to Apr 2026
  • Solo $4450
  • 2 - 4 Pax $2640
  • 5 - 8 Pax $2160
  • 9 - 16 Pax $2030
From May 2026 to Sep 2026
  • Solo $3750
  • 2 - 4 Pax $2260
  • 5 - 8 Pax $1800
  • 9 - 16 Pax $1670
From Oct 2026 to Dec 2026
  • Solo $4480
  • 2 - 4 Pax $2660
  • 5 - 8 Pax $2170
  • 9 - 16 Pax $2030
Xmas 21 Dec - 7 Jan Easter 29 Mar - 11 Apr
  • Solo $5410
  • 2 - 4 Pax $3170
  • 5 - 8 Pax $2670
  • 9 - 16 Pax $2540
Cairo : Hilton Pyramids Golf – Mövenpick Media City – Helnan Dreamland Hotel or similar
Cruises: MS Royal Isadora – MS Blue Shadow II – MS Nile Style – MS Concerto Plus or similar
From Jan 2026 to Apr 2026
  • Solo $6240
  • 2 - 4 Pax $3630
  • 5 - 8 Pax $3140
  • 9 - 16 Pax $3000
From May 2026 to Sep 2026
  • Solo $4900
  • 2 - 4 Pax $2900
  • 5 - 8 Pax $2440
  • 9 - 16 Pax $2310
From Oct 2026 to Dec 2026
  • Solo $6330
  • 2 - 4 Pax $3680
  • 5 - 8 Pax $3190
  • 9 - 16 Pax $3050
Xmas 21 Dec - 7 Jan Easter 29 Mar - 11 Apr
  • Solo $7210
  • 2 - 4 Pax $4170
  • 5 - 8 Pax $3670
  • 9 - 16 Pax $3530
Cairo : Hilton Heliopolis – Hyatt Regency – Triumph Luxury or similar
Cruises: MS Acamar – MS Movenpick Royal Lotus – MS Le Fayan – MS Esplanade or similar
From Jan 2026 to Apr 2026
  • Solo $12040
  • 2 - 4 Pax $6600
  • 5 - 8 Pax $6080
  • 9 - 16 Pax $5940
From May 2026 to Sep 2026
  • Solo $7830
  • 2 - 4 Pax $4380
  • 5 - 8 Pax $3900
  • 9 - 16 Pax $3780
From Oct 2026 to Dec 2026
  • Solo $12000
  • 2 - 4 Pax $6570
  • 5 - 8 Pax $6040
  • 9 - 16 Pax $5910
Xmas 21 Dec - 7 Jan Easter 29 Mar - 11 Apr
  • Solo $13300
  • 2 - 4 Pax $7300
  • 5 - 8 Pax $6760
  • 9 - 16 Pax $6630
Cairo : Four Seasons Nile Plaza – St. Regis Cairo – Nile Ritz – Marriott Mena House or similar
Cruises : MS Farah – MS Historia Nile Cruise – MS Tamr Henna – Sonesta Moon Goddess or similar
From:
$1500
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Phone

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