| Duration |
12 Days / 11 Nights |
|---|---|
| Tour Location |
Cairo / Faiyum / El Minya / Assuit / Dendera / Abydous / Luxor / Aswan / Abu Simbel |
| Tour Type |
Daily Tour |
| Pickup |
Cairo Airport |
Discover Egypt on our 12 Days Egypt Tour Middle & Upper Egypt. A Tripidays representative will greet you at Cairo Airport and assist with your holiday. After checking in at your hotel, enjoy a relaxing evening with a Nile dinner cruise, featuring delicious Egyptian cuisine and stunning river views.. On Day 2, explore the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Grand Egyptian Museum, where you’ll see ancient treasures and learn about Egypt’s rich history, an unforgettable highlight of the best Egypt tour packages.
On the third day, travel to the calm and beautiful Fayoum region to see Lake Qarun, Wadi El Rayan, and the waterfalls. Then head to El Minya, where you’ll stay for the next few days. From Day 4 to Day 6, explore ancient sites like Tuna El Gabal, Beni Hassan, Tell El Amarna, Meir Village, and the amazing temples of Abydos and Dendara.
Upon your arrival at Cairo Airport, a Tripidays representative will warmly welcome you and ensure a smooth start to your holiday. They will escort you to your hotel and assist with the check-in process, making your arrival seamless and stress-free.
Take a magical Nile dinner cruise with tasty food, fun Egyptian shows, and beautiful views of Cairo's sparkling lights. It's the perfect way to enjoy good food, culture, and unforgettable memories.
After a busy day, rest at your Cairo hotel and get ready for your next adventure.
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at Cairo Hotel. Then, go on an exciting trip with a kind tour guide. Visit famous places and spend your day discovering and learning new things.
Explore the Pyramids of Giza, iconic wonders of ancient Egypt. The Great Pyramid, built for Pharaoh Khufu around 2560 BCE, once stood as the tallest man made structure for 3,800 years. Nearby, Khafre’s pyramid, guarded by the Great Sphinx, and the smaller Pyramid of Menkaure showcase the incredible engineering of ancient builders, leaving visitors in awe of their 4,500 year old legacy.
Explore the Valley Temple of Pharaoh Khafre, part of his funerary complex, along with the Pyramid of Khafre and the Great Sphinx of Giza. Built around 2570 BCE during Egypt's Old Kingdom, this limestone and granite temple showcases the remarkable skills of ancient Egyptian builders. It was used for rituals to prepare the pharaoh’s body for the afterlife. Linked to Pharaoh Khafre (or Chephren in Greek), it highlights the advanced engineering and artistry of the time. Its connection to the Great Sphinx, believed to guard the area, makes it a vital piece of Egypt’s history.
The Great Sphinx of Giza, built around 2,500 BCE during Pharaoh Khafre’s reign, is a massive statue with a lion's body and a human head, believed to guard the Giza pyramid complex. Over centuries, it sustained damage but was partially restored by Pharaoh Thutmose IV, who placed the "Dream Stele" between its paws. The Sphinx was rediscovered in 1817, and while many of its mysteries remain unsolved, it stands as a testament to ancient Egyptian craftsmanship and continues to awe visitors worldwide.
Have a delicious Egyptian lunch and see the beautiful sights of Cairo. Share fun stories, laugh, and make special memories to keep forever.
After lunch, explore the Grand Egyptian Museum, a stunning cultural landmark near the iconic Great Pyramids of Giza. Opened to the public in 2024, this state-of-the-art museum holds over 100,000 artifacts that tell the story of Egypt’s 5,000-year history. Discover the incredible treasures of King Tutankhamun, who ruled during the 18th Dynasty (1332–1323 BCE), including his famous golden death mask. Learn about the Great Pyramid, built around 2560 BCE by King Khufu, and see relics connected to his reign. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the life, achievements, and culture of ancient Egypt, bringing its history to life in an unforgettable way.
Experience the ideal blend of comfort and elegance at a charming hotel in Cairo.
In the early morning, you’ll get your breakfast boxes before checking out. From there, we’ll take you to the peaceful Fayoum region, about 60 kilometers from Cairo, in a private, air-conditioned car.
Upon arrival, we will visit Lake Qarun, Egypt's largest saltwater lake, with a history dating back to ancient times when it was known as "Moeris" during the Pharaonic era. Once a vital resource for agriculture and fishing in the Middle Kingdom, the lake now offers serene boat rides and stunning natural beauty. Nearby, Wadi El Rayan National Park, established in 1989, features waterfalls, desert landscapes, and greenery, making this area a perfect blend of history and nature.
The park you will visit is also a conservation area that protects endangered species like the slender-horned gazelle and the Dorcas gazelle. Established in 1985, this park has become a haven for these animals, helping to preserve their populations. Visitors can join guided tours to learn about the history of the park and discover the unique plants and animals that live there.
Then you will visit waterfalls. In the heart of Egypt's Fayoum Oasis, the Wadi El-Rayan Waterfalls are a stunning man-made natural site. Created in the 1970s when agricultural drainage formed two lakes, the overflowing water gave rise to these cascading falls. Named after Pharaoh El-Rayan Ibn El-Walid, the site offers clear waters for swimming, peaceful pools, and serene desert views. It's both a natural wonder and a unique part of modern Egyptian history.
After that, you will see Gabal El Medawara is a beautiful and protected mountain range in the Fayoum Oasis of Egypt. It is known for its rich history, unique landscapes, and diverse wildlife. The area has been important for centuries, dating back to ancient Egypt when the Fayoum region was a hub of agriculture and trade during the Middle Kingdom (around 2000 BCE). The mountains are home to many rare plants and animals, some of which are found only in this region. Over time, Gabal El Medawara has been recognized as an important natural and historical treasure, protected to ensure its biodiversity and heritage are preserved for future generations.
After exploring Gabal El Medawara and its various attractions, you can enjoy a traditional lunch at one of the Fayoum resturant.
You will travel to El Minya, stay in an elegant hotel, and relax overnight in comfort.
Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, you will head to Tuna El Gabal.
Today, your journey begins with a visit to Tuna El Gabal, a fascinating ancient site in Egypt that once served as the capital of the 15th Nome of Upper Egypt, known as Hermopolis. This site is famous for its large necropolis, which holds more than 1,000 tombs. These tombs date back to the Old Kingdom (c. 2686–2181 BC) and the Greco-Roman period (332 BC–395 AD). Among the notable discoveries at Tuna El Gabal are the tomb of Petosiris, a high priest of Thoth, and the burial site of sacred animals like baboons and ibises, which were associated with the god Thoth. The site offers a fascinating look into ancient Egyptian and Greco-Roman burial practices.
Next, you will be heading to El Ashmunein, once known as Khemenu and later Hermopolis Magna, which was an ancient city dedicated to Thoth, the god of wisdom and the moon. It served as a religious hub in Upper Egypt and boasts a history spanning from the Old Kingdom to the Roman period. Key highlights include a temple for Thoth, a Roman temple dedicated to Emperor Antoninus Pius, and a vast collection of sacred ibis mummies offered to Thoth. The site offers a fascinating insight into ancient Egyptian religion and culture.
Your next stop is Beni Hassan, an ancient Egyptian cemetery located on the east bank of the Nile River. This site is famous for its 39 rock-cut tombs built during the Middle Kingdom period, around 2055-1650 BC. The tombs were created for local governors and officials of the Oryx nome (a region of ancient Egypt).
After a morning full of history and exploration, it's time to refuel with some delicious Egyptian cuisine! Your guide will take you to a local restaurant where you can taste authentic dishes.
After lunch, you will head to the El Minya hotel for some rest. This modern hotel offers comfortable accommodations and amenities to make your stay as pleasant as possible.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before checking out and heading out for more adventures.
Your day begins with a guided tour of Tell el-Amarna, an ancient Egyptian site built in 1346 BCE by Pharaoh Akhenaten. This city, Egypt's capital during his reign, symbolized his shift to worshiping Aten, the sun disk, as the main god. Abandoned after Akhenaten died in 1332 BCE, the site offers a fascinating look into the past. With an expert guide, you'll explore palaces, temples, and residential ruins showcasing ancient Egyptian art and architecture. You'll also learn how Akhenaten's religious reforms shaped daily life, making Tell el-Amarna a unique cultural and spiritual hub. A must-see for ancient Egypt enthusiasts.
After the morning tour, you can have lunch at a local restaurant nearby. They serve traditional Egyptian food, giving you a chance to enjoy the flavors of the region. There are options to suit all tastes and preferences.
In the afternoon, you will visit Al Muharraq Monastery, one of the oldest Coptic Orthodox monasteries in Egypt. It was founded in the 4th century AD during the time of Saint Macarius the Great, a key figure in early Christian monasticism. The monastery is located near Luxor and has great historical importance. Its church, built in the 5th century, features stunning architecture with intricate wooden carvings and colorful frescoes that date back hundreds of years. Visitors can also explore the monks' cells and learn about their simple way of life, which has remained largely unchanged since ancient times.
After visiting the monastery, you will make your way to Meir Village, a quaint and charming village located on the west bank of the Nile. This village is known for its traditional handicrafts, such as hand-woven rugs and pottery. You can watch local artisans at work and even purchase some of their beautiful creations to take home as souvenirs.
After a full day of exploring, you will head to Abydos Hotel to check in and spend the night there.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before checking out. Today, you will continue your journey through ancient Egypt by visiting two beautiful and well-preserved temples.
Your first stop will be at Abydos Temple, one of the oldest and most important temples in Egypt, dedicated to the god Osiris, the ruler of the afterlife in ancient Egyptian mythology. Built during the reign of Pharaoh Seti I (1290–1279 BCE) and completed by his son, Ramses II (1279–1213 BCE), this temple is famous for its beautifully preserved reliefs and hieroglyphs. These carvings provide insight into the religious beliefs, rituals, and devotion of the ancient Egyptians, making Abydos a key site for understanding their history and culture.
After exploring Abydos Temple, you will take a break for lunch. Enjoy some traditional Egyptian dishes and soak in the local atmosphere before continuing to your next destination.
Next on your itinerary is Dendera Temple, one of Egypt's best-preserved temples. Located north of Luxor, it is dedicated to Hathor, the goddess of love, joy, music, and motherhood. The current temple was built around 54 BC during the reign of Pharaoh Ptolemy XII, Cleopatra's father, though the site dates back to the Old Kingdom (c. 2613–2181 BC). Its stunning carvings and vibrant ceiling reliefs depict astronomy, mythology, and religious rituals, offering a unique glimpse into ancient Egyptian life and beliefs.
After completing your visits, you will head to Luxor to check into your hotel and relax in preparation for the days ahead.
After breakfast, you will check out of your hotel and head to the East Bank of Luxor to explore more ancient temples.
Your first stop today will be at Karnak Temple, the largest religious complex ever built in ancient Egypt. It was dedicated to the god Amun, his wife Mut, and their son Khonsu. Construction began around 2000 BCE during the Middle Kingdom and continued for over 2,000 years, with contributions from many pharaohs, including Hatshepsut, Seti I, and Ramses II. The temple covers over 200 acres and includes temples, chapels, halls, and towering obelisks. As you walk through its grand halls, you’ll see intricate hieroglyphics and massive columns, offering insight into the artistry and beliefs of ancient Egypt.
After you visit Karnak Temple, you’ll head to the nearby port and check into your cruise ship. This will be your home for the next few days as you journey along the Nile River, exploring ancient cities and temples along the way.
Lunch will be served as you settle into your cabin and take in the stunning views of the Nile. Sit back, relax, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.
After lunch, you will visit the Luxor Temple, an incredible temple built to honor the god Amun-Ra. The construction began around 1400 BCE during the reign of Pharaoh Amenhotep III and was later expanded by Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BCE. This temple is famous for its beautiful columns, statues, and carvings, showcasing the impressive architecture and rich history of ancient Egypt.
After a full day of exploring, you will return to your ship for a delicious dinner on board. Enjoy traditional Egyptian cuisine while taking in the tranquil atmosphere of the Nile River.
As the sun sets on the Nile, you will have time to relax and reflect on your day of adventure.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast on board, featuring a delicious selection, all while you enjoy the peaceful views as you sail.
Today, you will visit the famous Valley of the Kings, located on the west bank of Luxor in Egypt. This ancient burial site was used from around 1550 BCE to 1070 BCE during the New Kingdom period. It served as the final resting place for powerful pharaohs and nobles, including famous rulers like Tutankhamun, Seti I, and Ramses II. The tombs are richly decorated with scenes from Egyptian mythology, reflecting their beliefs in the afterlife and the journey of the soul. As you explore the site, you’ll step back in time and discover the incredible history of ancient Egypt.
The next stop is Hatshepsut's Temple, built in honor of Queen Hatshepsut, one of ancient Egypt’s most remarkable female pharaohs. Located in Deir el-Bahari, near Luxor, this magnificent temple was constructed during her reign in the 15th century BCE (circa 1479–1458 BCE). The temple’s grand design reflects Hatshepsut’s power and vision, with detailed wall carvings that depict her life, achievements, and even her divine birth. It stands as a masterpiece of ancient Egyptian architecture and a symbol of her lasting legacy.
Finally, you will visit the Colossi of Memnon, two giant statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, who ruled Egypt during the 18th Dynasty (around 1390–1352 BCE). These statues were built over 3,400 years ago to guard the entrance to Amenhotep III's grand mortuary temple in the ancient city of Thebes (modern-day Luxor). Though much of the temple has disappeared, the Colossi remain as a testament to the pharaoh’s power and the incredible craftsmanship of ancient Egypt.
After a day of exploring, enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Nile with stunning views, refreshing drinks, and a delicious lunch. In the evening, savor traditional Egyptian cuisine and entertainment aboard the boat, reflecting on your journey through Egypt's ancient history.
Spend the night on board your cruise ship, drifting along the Nile under a blanket of stars. Wake up to the golden light of sunrise and embark on another day of adventure.
Start the day with a tasty breakfast on board your cruise before heading to Edfu Temple.
Edfu Temple, located on the west bank of the Nile River, is one of the best-preserved temples from ancient Egypt. It was built between 237 BC and 57 BC during the Ptolemaic period and is dedicated to Horus, the falcon god. The temple’s construction began under Pharaoh Ptolemy III and was completed by Pharaoh Ptolemy XII. Its massive columns, detailed carvings, and hieroglyphs depict important stories from Egyptian mythology, including the battle between Horus and Seth. Edfu Temple gives a fascinating glimpse into the religious and cultural life of ancient Egypt.
After exploring Edfu Temple, return to your cruise for a delicious lunch. Take in the stunning views of the Nile as you dine on traditional Egyptian dishes.
In the afternoon, visit Kom Ombo Temple, built during the Ptolemaic period (around 180–47 BC). This unique temple is dedicated to two gods: Horus, the falcon god, and Sobek, the crocodile god. Explore its detailed reliefs that tell stories of ancient Egyptian rituals and daily life. The temple also features a fascinating ancient calendar and surgical tools carved into the stone, offering a glimpse into the medical practices of the time. Learn about the religious ceremonies held here and the significance of Sobek, believed to bring fertility to the land.
As the sun begins to set over the Nile, enjoy a relaxing dinner on board your cruise ship. Indulge in more delicious Egyptian cuisine while taking in the beautiful scenery.
After a day full of ancient wonders, retire to your comfortable cabin on board the cruise ship. Fall asleep to the gentle sounds of the Nile and rest up for another exciting day of exploration tomorrow.
Start your day early with a tasty breakfast box and meet your tour guide. Enjoy a comfortable ride to Abu Simbel in a private air-conditioned car.
The Abu Simbel Temples are some of the most famous and remarkable monuments from ancient Egypt. Built around 1264 BC during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II, these massive rock temples were created to honor Ramses II and his wife, Queen Nefertari. The temples were carved directly into the mountainside in southern Egypt, near the border with modern-day Sudan. The larger temple is dedicated to the gods Ra-Horakhty, Ptah, and Amun, as well as Ramses II himself, while the smaller temple honors Queen Nefertari and the goddess Hathor. These temples not only showcase incredible ancient engineering but also reflect the power and influence of Ramses II during his 67-year reign.
After exploring the Abu Simbel Temples, you can enjoy a delicious lunch and dinner on board your cruise ship.
You will spend the night on your cruise ship, enjoying its amenities and relaxing after a day of sightseeing. The gentle lull of the river and the stars above will make for a peaceful evening.
After breakfast on board, you will check out of your cruise and head to Aswan to continue your journey.
Your first stop in Aswan will be the famous Aswan High Dam, an incredible engineering project completed in 1970. Built with support from the Soviet Union, this dam was designed to control the annual flooding of the Nile River, which had shaped Egypt’s agriculture for thousands of years. Led by President Gamal Abdel Nasser, the construction of the dam also created Lake Nasser, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world. This project was a major milestone in modern Egypt’s history.
Next, you will visit the Unfinished Obelisk, an incredible ancient monument located in Aswan, Egypt. This obelisk was ordered during the reign of Queen Hatshepsut around 1500 BC but was never completed because a crack appeared in the granite during its construction. If finished, it would have stood over 100 feet tall and weighed more than 1,000 tons, making it the largest obelisk ever attempted in ancient Egypt. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the remarkable engineering skills of the ancient Egyptians.
Your journey concludes with a visit to the magnificent Philae Temple, an awe-inspiring site dedicated to the goddess Isis. Originally located elsewhere, the temple was meticulously relocated to Agilkia Island during the construction of the Aswan High Dam. Renowned for its exquisite architecture and intricate carvings, Philae Temple is an unmissable destination for history enthusiasts and admirers of ancient craftsmanship alike.
After you visit the Philae Temple, you will stop for a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Indulge in traditional Egyptian cuisine and soak in the stunning views of the Nile River.
Once you finish exploring Aswan, you will take a flight back to Cairo and check in at your hotel for the night. Relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
Start your last day with a tasty breakfast at the hotel. Take your time, enjoy the food, and relax in the peaceful setting. Then, pack up and check out. It’s a great way to end your trip!
We will make hotel checkout quick and easy so you can enjoy your memories without stress.
Your amazing 12 Days Egypt Tour Middle & Upper Egypt Tour is coming to an end. We will make your airport transfer easy and stress-free. We want your trip to be simple and fun from start to finish. Have a safe trip home, and we hope to see you again for more adventures!
* You can let us know if you'd like to customize your tour itinerary to meet your needs. We value your input and aim to accommodate your requirements.
* Nile Cruise itinerary maybe changed without prior notice due to navigational and security restrictions. The itinerary may change in sequence but not in visits.
12 Days / 11 Nights
Cairo Airport
Cairo / Aswan / Abu Simbel / Luxor / Hurghada
12 Days / 11 Nights
Cairo Airport
Cairo / Luxor / Dendera / Abydos / Sharm El Sheikh / Faiyum
12 Days /11 Nights
Cairo Airport
Cairo / Aswan / Luxor / Alexandria
12 Days / 11 Nights
Cairo Airport
Cairo / Bahariya / Aswan / Luxor / Abu Simbel / Hurghada
12 Days / 11 Nights
Cairo Airport
Cairo / Aswan / Abu Simbel / Luxor / Dendera / Abydos / Alexandria / Bahariya Oasis
12 Days / 11 Nights
Cairo Airport
Cairo / Luxor / Aswan / Alexandria / Bahariya Oasis / White Desert
12 Days / 11 Nights
Cairo Airport
Cairo / Giza / Luxor / Aswan
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