Ultimate Egypt

Ultimate Egypt

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9 Days From

$2409

Ultimate Egypt

9 Days Starting in Cairo, Cairo Governorate, Egypt and ending in Aswan, Aswan Governorate, Egypt

Visiting: Cairo, Luxor, Aswan

Tour operator:

Culture Trip

Tour code:

EGY

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

4 - 16

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

25-99

Special diets catered:

Vegans, Meat, Vegetarians, Gluten Free

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

From: $2409

NB: Prices correct on 23-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Step back in time on this epic nine-day voyage of discovery through Egypt. After the unforgettable experience of exploring the Sphinx, the Great Pyramid of Giza and the stalls of the Khan Al-Khalili bazaar in the historic centre of Cairo, we’ll continue our journey south, first by sleeper train and then by luxury cruise ship on the Nile. Marvel at ancient temples, kayak on the river and overload the senses at the Souq of Luxor. Wrap up your trip in Aswan, where you’ll enjoy an authentic Nubian dinner on your final evening.

Highlights

  • Gaze in awe at the Great Pyramid and Sphinx of Giza

  • Discover the overlooked architectural wonders of Cairo's historic centre

  • Explore the ancient Luxor Temple illuminated by candlelight

  • Cruise down the Nile on a luxury ship

  • Experience authentic Nubian hospitality and cuisine

  • Kayak down the Nile, exploring the islands of Aswan

Places You'll See

Ultimate Egypt 2024

Ultimate Egypt 2024

Ultimate Egypt 2024

Ultimate Egypt 2024

Ultimate Egypt 2024

Ultimate Egypt 2024

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrive In Cairo

Location: Cairo

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: President Hotel Cairo

Meals Included: Dinner

After touching down in Cairo, you’ll be whisked off to your hotel where you’ll meet our Local Insider who will accompany the group throughout the trip. At 6pm, get to know your fellow travellers before sitting down to a welcome dinner together. Be sure to get a good night’s sleep ahead of an action-packed day at the pyramids tomorrow.

Activities Included
Welcome dinner

Day 2 : Walk Like An Egyptian At The Giza Pyramids And Sphinx

Location: Cairo

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: President Hotel Cairo

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Explore two of the most iconic landmarks in Egypt today – the Sphinx and the Giza Pyramids, the largest of which is the last surviving Wonder of the Ancient World. It’s worth taking your time to fully appreciate these colossal feats of human endeavour. Later on you’ll continue the historical theme with a visit to the brand new, and hotly anticipated, Grand Egyptian Museum.

Activities Included
Sphinx and Giza Pyramids visit
Grand Egyptian Museum entry
Great Pyramid of Giza entry

Day 3 : Wander Through Moez Street And Khan Al-Khalili Bazaar

Location: Cairo

Accommodation: Sleeper train

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

You’ll have some free time this morning before heading into the historic centre of Cairo early in the afternoon. Admire the extensive array of Islamic architecture on Moez Street and embrace the chaos of the Khan Al-Khalili bazaar – a labyrinth of stalls selling jewellery, exotic spices, handcrafted souvenirs and much more. We’ll continue our tour at the Al Attarin spice and El Sagha gold markets, and take a break for tea at the iconic Feshawi cafe, before heading for a traditional Koshari lunch – a dish that combines rice, macaroni, and lentils with a spiced tomato sauce. Later, at an old bookbinding store, you’ll have the chance to treat yourself to a personalised leather notebook. Next, it’s time to board the overnight sleeper train from Giza station to Luxor.

Activities Included
Moez Street entry
Khan Al-Khalili bazaar
Abdelzahers bookbinding store visit
Traditional Koshari Lunch

Day 4 : Explore The Temples Of Karnak And Luxor On The Nile’S East Bank

Location: Luxor

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Steigenberger Nile Palace

Meals Included: Breakfast

No trip to Egypt would be complete without visiting several of the inspiring temples that form an integral part of the country’s heritage, starting with Karnak Temple. This majestic 4,000-year-old temple, in a complex spanning more than 100ha (247 acres), is believed to be the largest religious building in the world – larger, even, than some entire ancient cities. You’ll then return to Luxor and check into our hotel on the Nile. Set out on an evening tour of the Luxor Temple, and witness the ancient sandstone glowing gloriously in candlelight.

Activities Included
Karnak Temple morning visit
Luxor Temple evening visit

Day 5 : Discover The Valley Of The Kings

Location: Luxor

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Movenpick Royal Lily Nile Cruise

Meals Included: Lunch

Today we explore the west bank of the Nile, starting early as we head to the Valley of the Kings, the royal burial ground of many pharaohs during the New Kingdom (1539BCE-1075BCE). Venture into the tombs of Ramses V and VI before moving on to the temple of Hatshepsut, a striking tribute to one of the first female pharaohs. Next, stop by the Colossi of Memnon – two 18m (59ft) tall stone monuments depicting Pharaoh Amenhotep III – before hopping on the cruise ship for lunch and to begin our journey down the Nile.

Activities Included
Valley of the Kings entry
Ramses V and VI tomb entries
Hatshepsut Temple entry
Colossi of Memnon visit

Day 6 : Work On Your Haggling Skills In The Souq Of Luxor

Location: Luxor

Accommodation: Movenpick Royal Lily Nile Cruise

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, you’ll have some time to explore for yourself before a late-morning walk of the vibrant Souq of Luxor, where you can shop for souvenirs and enjoy a refreshing hibiscus tea, known as karkade. Head back to the ship at noon and set sail on your journey towards our next stop, Edfu.

Activities Included
Souq of Luxor walking tour

Day 7 : Explore The Temple Of Kom Ombo

Location: Aswan

Accommodation: Movenpick Royal Lily Nile Cruise

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Fancy taking it easy this morning? It’s entirely up to you – but if you’re keen for an adventure, the Temple of Edfu is worth seeing. Built between 237BCE and 57BCE, it’s relatively young by Egyptian temple standards and therefore extremely well preserved. You can get here either by foot or horse-drawn carriage. On your return to the ship, you’ll sail to Kom Ombo, home to another impressive temple. Overlooking the Nile, it comprises two symmetrical temples split down the middle. Explore here for a couple of hours before setting off on the last leg of your cruise.

Activities Included
Kom Ombo Temple visit

Day 8 : Kayak On The Nile And Explore The Islands Of Aswan

Location: Aswan

Accommodation: Movenpick Royal Lily Nile Cruise

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, you’ll swap the cruise ship for a kayak in Aswan, allowing you to experience the Nile from a totally different perspective. Navigate the river waters and visit islands, such as Elephantine and Soheil, at your own pace. Post-kayak, round off your trip in style with an authentic Nubian dinner in the warm company of the locals.

Activities Included
River Nile kayaking
Farewell dinner

Day 9 : Depart From Aswan

Location: Aswan

Meals Included: Breakfast

The time has come to pack your bags and bid farewell to your fellow travellers. Those who have pre-purchased an Abu Simbel day trip as an optional activity will depart early this morning. The Nile cruise finishes at noon, at which point you can either head to the airport for your flight home or, alternatively, you can extend your travels by boarding a plane to Amman for our Beyond Petra: Discovering Jordan’s Rugged Side trip.

Optional Activities
Departure transfer to Aswan Airport (ASW)
Abu Simbel day trip

What's Included

  • Meals described in the itinerary

    Eight breakfasts, six lunches, six dinners

  • Arrival airport transfer

  • Accommodation

    Four nights luxury cruise liner accommodation Three nights premium hotel accommodation One night tourist class sleeper train

  • Local Insider

  • Private and local transport

  • Sphinx and Giza Pyramids visit

  • Grand Egyptian Museum entry

  • Moez Street entry

  • Khan Al-Khalili bazaar

  • Abdelzahers bookbinding store visit

show more

What's Not Included

  • Travel insurance

    Visas (if applicable)

  • Visas (if applicable)

  • Resort Taxes (If applicable)

  • International Travel

Optional Extras

  • Departure Transfer Basma Hotel - Aswan Airport (ASW)

    Private transfer for up to 2 passengers

Accommodation

President Hotel Cairo
There’s no hotel that better displays the Egyptian capital’s youthful spirit than this trendy spot in the hip Zamalek district. Work spaces, gym and spa facilities all speak to the hotel’s modern feel, but the President’s greatest asset is its dining – from the atmospheric Cairo Cellar restaurant to the lounge bar, cafe and, our personal favourite, the stunning 11th floor La Terrace restaurant, where you’ll be having breakfast with a view.

Sleeper Train (Giza to Luxor)
See Egypt from a different perspective on the overnight train from Giza to Luxor. Watch the urban sprawl give way to open countryside as you journey 500km (311mi) south – a fascinating window into rural Egypt. The compact cabins contain bunk beds, wash basins and charging ports.

Steigenberger Nile Palace
You can’t miss the Steigenberg, standing tall on the east bank of the Nile. This impressive hotel offers a range of spa treatments, a sauna and health club, as well as two gorgeous outdoor pools overlooking the river. Worked up an appetite in the pool? Take your pick from a selection of eight restaurants, cafes and bars, catering to just about every taste imaginable.

Movenpick Royal Lily Nile Cruise
Sail down the Nile in style on this luxury ship with 56 deluxe ensuite cabins. And don’t forget to bring your swimmers for the pool. Come evening, head to the Salon Deck and gaze out the panoramic windows – after you’ve ordered your tipple from the bar, of course.


Please note that, while unlikely, the accommodation indicated may be subject to change (see T&C’s). On a rare occasion, alternative arrangements may be necessary – this may be due to a lack of availability at our preferred accommodation, or other reasons outside our control. We’ll do everything we can to prevent this from happening; however, in cases where it is unavoidable, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.

Check out our Q&As

  • What happens if I am travelling on my own?

    Most accommodations on our trips are reserved on a twin share basis. Therefore, if you are travelling on your own you will be sharing a room with another Culture Trip traveller of the same sex. However, most of the time it is possible to pay a supplement for your own room. Please ask your Travel Expert for more information.

  • Do I need to buy travel insurance?

    Yes - all travellers must have travel insurance before they join one of our trips. You are strongly advised to take out your policy at the time of booking to protect your holiday payments in the event of cancellation.

  • How fit do I need to be to take one of your trips?

    We offer a variety of different trips, most of which do not require a specific level of fitness. Some of our trips are more active, but we include details on each specific trip information page. If you are unsure please don’t hesitate to ask one of our Travel Experts.

  • Do I need any vaccinations?

    As a tour operator we are unable to give medical advice, however we suggest you contact your doctor, a professional medical travel clinic or check out the World Health Organisation website for more details.

  • What kind of luggage should I bring?

    It depends on the type of trip you have booked, but we usually recommend a soft sided bag or case as they are easier to handle on a trip.

  • Are airport transfers included?

    Some of our trips do not include airport transfers, so we recommend customers either take public transport or a taxi. However, if you would like us to arrange a private transfer please ask one of our travel experts who can arrange this for you.

  • What is not included in the trip?

    We don’t include the following in our trips: insurance (however you must have insurance to travel on one of our trips), flights, tips for local guides, optional activities and other meals and services not mentioned in your itinerary.

  • What happens if I need to amend or cancel my booking?

    You can change the date of your tour up to 60 days prior to departure and cancel at any time, although cancellation conditions may apply.

  • Can I book extra nights accommodation before or after my trip?

    Yes, call or email one of our Travel Experts who will be able to add accommodation to your booking.

  • What kind of transport do you use on your trips?

    We use a mix of public and private transport on our trips, but usually a small and comfortable minibus, so we can access more remote destinations that larger groups can’t get to.

  • When will I know if my trip is guaranteed?

    We usually wait until we have a few travellers booked on a trip before we guarantee it will run. The latest we will guarantee a trip is 60 days ahead of departure, often it will be long before.

  • How much money should I bring?

    This will depend on how long your trip is, your destination and how much you intend to spend on personal expenses and any meals that aren’t included. It is a good idea to check out the cost of a local lunch and dinner in your destination before you travel.

  • Why should I travel with Culture Trip?

    We know the world's best bits – our award-winning content proves it. Now we’re using that expertise to bring you curated trips that combine thoughtful planning with authentic experiences and hand-picked accommodation. Led by Local Insiders, our trips bring together small groups of curious travellers who embrace the value of shared experiences, cultural immersion and travel that never feels rushed.

  • What is the group size?

    Our maximum group size is 16, although our average group size is 10-12 people. Group travel is a great way to meet other people, and you will have the safety of travelling with a group, but you can also decide how much time you want to spend by yourself.

  • What visas do I need?

    Depending on your passport and your destination, you may need a visa to travel on one of our trips. It is up to you to ensure you have any and all necessary visas before you travel. We recommend you check with a specialist visa agency at least 6 weeks before you travel.

  • Do I need to tip?

    Tips are not included in the price of your trip but are entirely optional and at your discretion.

  • Are flights / transport to the destination included?

    No - our travellers come from all over the world so flights and / or transport to the start destination are not included.

  • Will there always be a guide on the trip?

    Absolutely yes. We pride ourselves on our expert Local Insiders - they are an integral part of what makes our trips so special. Your Local Insider will accompany you throughout the trip and is there to help and assist in any way possible as well as ensure everything works to time.

  • Can I travel in my own private group?

    Yes you can. Our team of Travel Experts can put together a bespoke trip to suit all group sizes in most destinations around the world. Please contact us for more details.

  • How many meals are included?

    Breakfast is included daily and then depending on your itinerary, some lunches and dinners. This is clearly indicated in the trip details or ask your Travel Expert to confirm.

  • Is there any age limit on the Trips?

    You must be 25 or over to travel on our trips, however there is no upper age limit. You just need a sense of adventure.

  • I booked but cannot travel anymore. What are the amendments and cancellation options?

    We understand plans can change and that’s why we offer flexible booking conditions. You can change or cancel your booking at any time up to 56 days prior to departure and receive a full refund of any funds you have already paid towards your trip.

  • Do I have to make full payment at the time of booking?

    You do not have to make full payment at the time of booking. We only require a small, fully refundable deposit of $100 to secure your spot on the trip. Full payment is due at the latest 56 days prior to departure.

  • Do I have to take part in all the activities? Will there be free time on my trip?

    The amount of free time varies per trip. Please enquire with our travel experts to get a proper understanding on the amount of free time on the trips you are interested in. You do not have to take part in all activities but we strongly encourage you to do so! We have carefully crafted each trip to show you the best of every destination, so you’d be missing out! Also taking part in activities is a great way to get to know your travel companions and make new friends. Nothing like a positive and supportive group environment to venture outside of your comfort zone and surprise yourself!

  • What is a Local Insider?

    We believe there’s no better way to discover a new place and a new culture than by experiencing it through the eyes and experience of a local. That’s why we only work with local guides - whom we name our Local Insiders. They know their region inside out and have a passion for sharing it with travellers. All our Local Insiders have years of experience guiding and speak English. Importantly, they like to travel the way we like it too: away from crowds, tourist traps and queues. Focussing on the true essence of a destination, teaching you all about the local culture and profusely sharing local hidden gems and insights.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Emily  

Amazing vacation for solo female travelers

16-Oct-2023

The Ultimate Egypt trip was one of my favorite vacations ever. I'm a woman in my 40s who has done a lot of international travel -- sometimes solo, sometimes with friends -- but I've never been on a group tour like this before. This might be the only way I travel from now on! The itinerary from Culture Trip was great: I felt like we always had enough time at the sites we visited and were always doing something exciting, but also had down time to nap, read a book, hang out by the pool, etc. I didn't know anyone on the trip before it started but became fast friends with my assigned roommate in addition to all of the other group members. We were often the last group to leave the dining room after meals because we were engaged in such wonderful conversations and exchanges. Finally, one of the main reasons this trip was so fantastic was because of our group leader (Local Insider) Ramy. His knowledge about the historical sites was incredible and he had connections everywhere we went that made us feel welcomed. He truly was an "insider' who gave us tips on things like dress code, which foods were safe to eat, tipping customs, etc before every activity, which took the stress out of traveling. A few random tips for future travelers: 1. One head scarf was enough - it was needed for the day we spent in Old Cairo, but not on any other occasions. 2. I felt most comfortable wearing lightweight baggy pants, but there were a few days when I wore knee-length shorts. I would have felt uncomfortable in anything shorter than knee-length, but I did wear tank tops or short sleeve t-shirts to most of the sites. 3. I'm really glad i had sneakers to wear to most of the sites, as they are dusty and involve a lot of walking -- sometimes over rocks and pebbles. 4. The sleeper train was a wonderful adventure (I'm so glad we did it!) but it is not luxurious. Approach it with a sense of adventure and you'll be fine, but if you're an up-tight traveler who needs a 5-star sleeping experience every night of the trip, this might not be the vacation for you. 5. I have a gluten-free/dairy-free diet and was pleasantly surprised at the accommodations that were made for me. There was always something for me to eat -- even fresh gluten-free rolls at every meal on the cruise and even when we dined with a family at the Nubian Village. 6. It worked well to set up my airport transfer for departure at the end of the trip once we were in Egypt. Some of our group members were heading to the airport at the same time and were able to share a ride. There was no need to set this up before the trip started. I highly recommend this trip! I can't imagine seeing Egypt any other way.

Olivia  

Ultimate Egypt is the Perfect Trip

16-Oct-2023

I had such an amazing time on my Ultimate Egypt trip through Culture Trip! The tour guide, Ramy, was so knowledgeable and made the trip so fun! Truly one of the best guides I've ever had! The trip itself, between the sites, the people, the food was all just magical and surreal! We got to see all the amazing things that are so quintessentially Egypt and everything surpassed my expectations. In my group, there were 3 solo female travelers, myself included, and speaking for myself, I felt 100% safe the entire trip. Everyone we came in contact with was so friendly and helpful and I never felt even remotely unsafe. I cannot recommend the Ultimate Egypt tour led by Ramy enough! Whether you are traveling with your whole family or by yourself, this is the trip and company for you! Absolutely perfect!

Nancy  

Egypt was amazing and our tour guide was absolutely the best!!!

16-Oct-2023

Great itinerary, amazing locations and of course our most wonderful and knowledgeable tour guide!! Ramy was definitely the best!

Brenda  

My trip to Egypt with Culture Trip was one of the best trips I've ever done

05-Feb-2023

My trip to Egypt with Culture Trip was one of the best trips I've ever done! The accommodations, the activities, and especially the "local insider" guide were superb. Traveling in a small group (5 total on the tour) was so nice, I felt a bit sorry for other tourists being herded around in a big group on a big bus. We went on activities that you just couldn't do with a big group. Our local guide was more like a friend we all knew who lived there and was showing us his favorite places!

Catherine and Henry  

Mizo was AMAZING!! Best tour guide ever

05-Mar-2023

Mizo was AMAZING!! Best tour guide ever. There is nothing he doesn’t. Keep Mizo!!! The whole trip was superb because of him.

Goh  

Trip was well planned

08-Mar-2023

Trip was well planned, transition to each location was seamless. Local tour guide was very knowledgeable and resourceful. I have enjoyed my trip greatly and will definitely consider Culture Trip’s tours in the future!

Trusted Customer  

Ultimate Egypt - hit the highlights & balanced sightseeing & free time

24-Oct-2023

This was my first time using Culture Trip and I would use them again. I went on the Ultimate Egypt tour. The airport transfer was very smooth and the tour guide (Eman) did a fantastic job communicating each day's itinerary and explaining the history. I thought the hotel selection was great but the group had a bad experience with the sleeper train. The tour had some early morning starts to beat the heat and the crowds but we usually had a couple hours to relax in the late afternoons as well as some free time to explore the templates on our own. I think the Culture Trip tour was a good value and the highlight for me was the 4-night Nile river cruise. Culture Trip organized a group WhatsApp a week before the tour which was helpful but it also would have been nice to have received more information on tipping and the amount of cash needed.

Valerie  

Seamless service, great communication, value-for-money, authentic experience

05-Mar-2023

Seamless service, great communication, value-for-money, authentic experiences, well-organised and totally worry-free. I had a great time!!

Judy and John  

From start to finish the folks at Culture Trip provided a high level of customer service and support

15-Mar-2023

From start to finish the folks at Culture Trip provided a high level of customer service and support. Our guide in country was exceptional, a delightful and informative traveling companion. The 10 day itinerary covered everything we hoped to experience on our trip, logistically we couldn't have done it independently in the same amount of time. More than that, we learned so much about wonderous places and met some very lovely local people. That is the best reason to travel with Culture Trip.

Ellen  

Great Experience

09-May-2023

Liked visiting 3 different cities and various amazing tombs and temples. Got a feel for the Egyptian culture and enjoyed the Nile cruise. I loved that it was a small group, and I loved our guide Walid and the other people on the tour.

Read all 14 reviews

1 Select your preferred date

Thursday - Friday

Dec 05, 2024 - Dec 13, 2024
$2409

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Culture Trip allows you to make 5 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 55 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Culture Trip allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform culture trip, 55 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Culture Trip requires a minimum deposit of 300 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 55 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of culture trip charges.

    Up to 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 54 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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