12-Day Splendors of Egypt - Small Group 2026
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US$5350 ￥36097 €4628 C$7464 Rs.508988
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Child age: 0-12
Highlights
Explore the splendors of Egypt on this 12-day tour. Cruise down the Nile and follow in the footsteps of Sir Winston Churchill and Agatha Christie for high tea at the Old Cataract Hotel. Disembark in Luxor, where you will see the Valley of the Kings, where pharaohs — including the famous Tutankhamun — are buried. Later, break bread with a family in Geziret Bahirat, who will welcome you with stories of local life. In Cairo, marvel at the oldest pyramid, the Step Pyramid of King Zoser, before traveling to see one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World: the Pyramids of Giza. Stand face-to-face with the towering Sphinx and as night falls, watch a spectacular sound and light show dance across the ancient stones.
- "Koshari is our national dish, and it never disappoints. Believed to have originated in the 19th century, this vegetarian street food staple is made of rice, pasta, lentils, and chickpeas, topped with delicious fried onions and a spicy tomato-based garlic sauce."
- "I love to share our Ancient Egyptian civilization and history with our guests and to explain all the details and stories related to Egyptian mythology so our guests can enjoy a very special guided vacation."
- "The Abu Simbel Temples are utterly unique in scale, architecture, art and history. From one of the most prominent eras of Ancient Egyptian history, these magnificent structures emphasise how persistent and clever ancient Egyptian architects were to carve a mountain to make such incredible tributes for Egyptian deities."
- Cairo: Take a short scenic flight to Luxor where you will begin your Nile Cruise.
- Karnak: Stand amid a vast forest of columns in the largest temple complex known to man, as your Egyptologist explains the significance behind it. Walk the avenue of ram-headed sphinxes, see the of Rameses II and the Hypostyle Hall.
- Luxor: Visit the Luxor Museum and discover ancient artifacts.
- Dendera: At the Temple of Hathor, see a rare depiction of Cleopatra and Caesarian.
- Aswan: Visit Aswan's High Dam and Granite Quarries to ponder why the unfinished Obelisk has been left in mid-creation for thousands of years.
- Philae Island: Travel by motorboat to Philae Island and witness the majestic Temple of Isis rising from the waters.
- Take a short boat ride to Philae Island, where the temple of Isis was carefully reassembled after the original site was submerged by the rising Nile. Enjoy a guided visit before the temple facade becomes a canvas for light and sound, recounting the myth of Isis and Hathor and the Nile’s sacred floods in a vivid display.
- Kom Ombo: Visit the unique temple as it is the only double temple in Egypt.
- Luxor: Visit Luxor Temple, constructed approximately 1400 BC. Look to the top of the remaining Pylon of Ramses II and step into the ancient monument.
- Colossi of Memnon: See the massive stone statues of the Colossi of Memnon.
- Valley of the Kings: Embark on an experience with an Egyptologist to visit the mortuary Temple Hatshepsut.
- Valley of the Kings: Explore the Valley of the Kings, home to the magnificent tombs of Egypt's Pharaohs, with your Egyptologist.
- Luxor: Enjoy your short flight returning to Cairo.
- Cairo: Uncover Cairo’s rich heritage at the UNESCO-listed Citadel, a commanding fortress that shaped Egypt’s history for centuries. With your Egyptologist, step inside the Great Alabaster Mosque, where soaring domes, intricate stained glass and the tomb of Sultan Muhammad Ali create a moment of quiet reflection. From its hilltop setting, take in sweeping views over the city below.
- Cairo: At the Grand Egyptian Museum, discover the complete collection from Tutankhamun’s tomb — displayed together for the first time — from ceremonial beds to his golden funerary mask. With your Egyptologist, explore the reconstructed solar barque once buried beside the Great Pyramid of Giza, stand before the 11‑meter statue of Ramses II, and wander through one of the largest collections of ancient artifacts spanning the Predynastic to the Greco‑Roman eras.
- Memphis: Visit this famous capital of the ancient world to see the statue of Ramses II and the Great Alabaster Sphinx.
- Saqqara Necropolis: View the oldest pyramid in the world, the Step Pyramid of Zoser I, existing for over 4,500 years.
- Giza: With your Egyptologist, meet the enigmatic Sphinx and venture deep inside one of the pyramids, to the chambers where the pharaohs went to meet their Gods in the afterlife.
- Giza: Admire the remaining Wonders of the Ancient World as you explore through the Pyramids of Giza and the mighty Sphinx. Hear about Egyptian history as you walk through the National Archaeological Museum and learn the art of making papyrus paper out of reeds when you visit a Papyrus Institute.
- Luxor: Get to know your fellow travelers over a delightful drink followed by dinner.
- Kom Ombo: Learn about traditional Egyptian attire and immerse yourself in local culture at an Egyptian dinner and galabeya party.
- Aswan: Follow in the footsteps of Sir Winston Churchill and Agatha Christie as you enjoy high tea at Aswan's famous Old Cataract Hotel, as the sun begins to set.
- Aswan: Satisfy your curiosity and your taste buds over an Egyptian cooking demonstration with your talented onboard chef.
- Aswan: Ever wondered what it is like to be in the driver's seat? Enjoy a tour of the Captain's quarters and learn about how he sails through the Nile and how knowledge has been passed down through generations.
- Aswan: On a traditional Nile felucca, meet a sailor and learn the art of sailing this ancient craft and visit the High Dam and Granite Quarries.
- Luxor: Enjoy listening to stories of village life from local residents, when you visit a family home for a tasting of authentic Egyptian sun bread.
- Aswan: In Aswan, meet the women of a local women-owned co-operative whose mission is to support vulnerable women from the local villages to learn new skills and become financially independent. The organization provides a hub of support and comfort for over 300 women who may live in poverty or suffer from loneliness and want to become financially independent. Thanks to their newly learnt skills, the women are now able to provide the main source of income for their family. The co-op also strives to reduce waste with a secondary mission to ensure a cleaner world by using waste and natural material like bamboo or palm trees to create fine handicrafts. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality.
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Aswan: Satisfy your curiosity and your taste buds over an Egyptian cooking demonstration with your talented onboard chef.
- Aswan: Ever wondered what it is like to be in the driver's seat? Enjoy a tour of the Captain's quarters and learn about how he sails through the Nile and how knowledge has been passed down through generations.
Dates & Prices
Price in USD (per person, based on double occupancy)
Limited Offer
3% Group Discount: 1. Receive 3% off when you purchase 3+ rooms on the same tour (single order only). 2. Receive 3% off when you book 3+ multi-day tours with minimum order total of $500 at once. Not valid in conjunction with any other discounts or pricing offers.
Itinerary
Welcome to the timeless land of the pharaohs. On arrival at Cairo Airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel where you’ll have time to unwind and explore its elegant amenities. Later, get acquainted with your Travel Director and fellow travelers over a drink, toasting the start of your Egyptian adventure.
Cairo, Egypt
Cairo, Egypt's sprawling capital, is set on the Nile River. Nearby, Giza is site of the iconic pyramids and Great Sphinx, dating to the 26th century B.C.E. In Gezira Island's leafy Zamalek district, 187m Cairo Tower affords panoramic city views.
In the morning, fly to Luxor and visit the huge temple complex of Karnak. Walk through the avenue of ram-headed sphinxes to stand among the columns of the Hypostyle Hall. Later, transfer to your cruise ship, your home for the next seven nights. After lunch on board, take a walk through the Luxor Museum to admire its impressive collection of ancient artifacts. In the evening, enjoy dinner on the ship and unwind at your leisure.
Cairo, Egypt
Cairo, Egypt's sprawling capital, is set on the Nile River. Nearby, Giza is site of the iconic pyramids and Great Sphinx, dating to the 26th century B.C.E. In Gezira Island's leafy Zamalek district, 187m Cairo Tower affords panoramic city views.
Luxor, Egypt
Luxor is a city on the east bank of the Nile River in Egypt. It's on the site of ancient Thebes, the pharaohs' capital at the height of their power, during the 16th-11th centuries B.C.E.
A day of legend and history awaits you as you begin with a morning visit to the Temple of Hathor in Dendera. One of the best-preserved temples in Egypt, it features a rare depiction of Cleopatra and her son Caesarion, whose father was Julius Caesar. At lunchtime, return to your ship and enjoy a scenic journey through the Esna Lock to Edfu.
Luxor, Egypt
Luxor is a city on the east bank of the Nile River in Egypt. It's on the site of ancient Thebes, the pharaohs' capital at the height of their power, during the 16th-11th centuries B.C.E.
Dendera Temple Complex, Egypt
Edfu, Egypt
This city sits on the West Bank of the Nile River in Egypt, between Esna and Aswan. It is notable for the massive Temple of Horus and the remains of ancient pyramids.
Start the day with breakfast as you cruise along the Nile to Kom Ombo, before continuing on to the city of Aswan. Renowned for its archaeological sites, including the Philae Temple Complex and the Temple of Isis, Aswan is a vibrant destination that portrays an appealing blend of ancient and contemporary Egypt. Indulge your culinary side during an Egyptian cooking demonstration or tea with the Captain for your Insight Choice experience. In the evening, enjoy a fun-filled Egyptian dinner and galabeya party.
Edfu, Egypt
This city sits on the West Bank of the Nile River in Egypt, between Esna and Aswan. It is notable for the massive Temple of Horus and the remains of ancient pyramids.
Aswan, Egypt
Aswan is a city in the south of Egypt, and is the capital of the Aswan Governorate.Aswan is a busy market and tourist centre located just north of the Aswan Dam on the east bank of the Nile at the first cataract.
Today’s sightseeing includes a visit to Aswan's High Dam and granite quarries, where you'll see the enormous unfinished obelisk. Travel by motorboat to the Temple of Isis, which rises from the waters of the Nile on the Island of Philae. Enjoy a retelling of the Nile flood and the stories of the goddesses Isis and Hathor in a Roman-style theater. The rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy the facilities on your cruise ship.
Aswan, Egypt
Aswan is a city in the south of Egypt, and is the capital of the Aswan Governorate.Aswan is a busy market and tourist centre located just north of the Aswan Dam on the east bank of the Nile at the first cataract.
Throughout your journey, you’ll have seen many feluccas sailing along the Nile. Now it’s your turn to explore one for yourself. On board this traditional vessel, meet a local sailor who shares the history and techniques behind navigating this culturally significant boat. Visit the local women’s co-op on your MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and discover how scrap materials are transformed into fine handicrafts, supporting vulnerable women in the community. As the sun starts to set, enjoy high tea at the historic Old Cataract Hotel, just like Sir Winston Churchill and Agatha Christie once did. Round off the day with an atmospheric Sound and Light Show at Philae Island, where the temple’s illuminated facade becomes the stage for tales of Isis, Hathor and the sacred Nile.
Aswan, Egypt
Aswan is a city in the south of Egypt, and is the capital of the Aswan Governorate.Aswan is a busy market and tourist centre located just north of the Aswan Dam on the east bank of the Nile at the first cataract.
With the morning free, perhaps join an Optional Experience to Abu Simbel. These temples overlook Lake Nasser and consist of the Great Temple of Ramesses II and the Temple of Hathor. Later, sail to Kom Ombo to visit Egypt's only double temple, dedicated to two gods: the crocodile-headed Sobek and the falcon-headed Horus the Elder.
Aswan, Egypt
Aswan is a city in the south of Egypt, and is the capital of the Aswan Governorate.Aswan is a busy market and tourist centre located just north of the Aswan Dam on the east bank of the Nile at the first cataract.
Kom Ombo, Egypt
It is an agricultural town in Egypt famous for the Temple of Kom Ombo.
Your cruise continues along the bustling waters of the Nile. Enjoy the facilities on board and keep your cameras ready for the sights as you leisurely make your way to Luxor. In the evening, visit Luxor Temple, where your ship will dock for the night.
Kom Ombo, Egypt
It is an agricultural town in Egypt famous for the Temple of Kom Ombo.
Luxor, Egypt
Luxor is a city on the east bank of the Nile River in Egypt. It's on the site of ancient Thebes, the pharaohs' capital at the height of their power, during the 16th-11th centuries B.C.E.
This morning, disembark from your cruise and travel by coach to the west bank of the Nile. Delve into history seeing both the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Valley of the Kings where many pharaohs were buried, including Hatshepsut, Amenhotep I and Tutankhamun. Experience the renowned local hospitality of Egyptians during a visit to the village of Geziret Bahirat. Connect with the community and share bread with the Bahirat family, as they regale you with fascinating stories of daily life. Later, transfer to the airport for your return flight to Cairo.
Luxor, Egypt
Luxor is a city on the east bank of the Nile River in Egypt. It's on the site of ancient Thebes, the pharaohs' capital at the height of their power, during the 16th-11th centuries B.C.E.
Cairo, Egypt
Cairo, Egypt's sprawling capital, is set on the Nile River. Nearby, Giza is site of the iconic pyramids and Great Sphinx, dating to the 26th century B.C.E. In Gezira Island's leafy Zamalek district, 187m Cairo Tower affords panoramic city views.
This morning, ascend to the Citadel for sweeping views over the city. While here, visit the Alabaster Mosque, otherwise known as the Great Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha, regarded as the founder of modern Egypt. Continue to the Grand Egyptian Museum, home to a remarkable collection of ancient artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun.
Cairo, Egypt
Cairo, Egypt's sprawling capital, is set on the Nile River. Nearby, Giza is site of the iconic pyramids and Great Sphinx, dating to the 26th century B.C.E. In Gezira Island's leafy Zamalek district, 187m Cairo Tower affords panoramic city views.
Today, you’ll head to Memphis, the legendary capital of the ancient world. Once the heart of Egypt’s Old Kingdom, it was a flourishing center of politics, religion and art. Marvel at the colossal statue of Ramses II and the Great Alabaster Sphinx, believed to represent Queen Hatshepsut. Continue to Sakkara to view the extraordinary Step Pyramid of King Zoser, the oldest in Egypt, designed by the architect Imhotep around 2700 B.C. This afternoon, journey to Giza to come face-to-face with the enigmatic Sphinx. Gather at your hotel with your Travel Director and fellow travelers to share canapes and a drink, marking the end of your unforgettable journey.
Cairo, Egypt
Cairo, Egypt's sprawling capital, is set on the Nile River. Nearby, Giza is site of the iconic pyramids and Great Sphinx, dating to the 26th century B.C.E. In Gezira Island's leafy Zamalek district, 187m Cairo Tower affords panoramic city views.
Giza, Egypt
The third-largest city in Egypt and the capital of the Giza Governorate. It is located on the west bank of the Nile, 4.9 km southwest of central Cairo.
Cairo, Egypt
Cairo, Egypt's sprawling capital, is set on the Nile River. Nearby, Giza is site of the iconic pyramids and Great Sphinx, dating to the 26th century B.C.E. In Gezira Island's leafy Zamalek district, 187m Cairo Tower affords panoramic city views.
Your wonderful journey ends with transfers to Cairo International airport.
Cairo, Egypt
Cairo, Egypt's sprawling capital, is set on the Nile River. Nearby, Giza is site of the iconic pyramids and Great Sphinx, dating to the 26th century B.C.E. In Gezira Island's leafy Zamalek district, 187m Cairo Tower affords panoramic city views.
Includes & Excludes
Price Includes
Additional Notes
- DAY 1: Complimentary transfers from Cairo International Airport (CAI) will operate per flight information details on the first day of the trip or in conjunction with pre accommodation booked through Insight Vacations.
- DAY 12: Complimentary transfers to Cairo International Airport (CAI) will operate per flight information details on the last day of the trip or in conjunction with post accommodation booked through Insight Vacations.
- EGYPT: USA passport holders require a visa for Egypt. A e-visa can be obtained prior to departure (we recommend applying 45 days prior) or a visa can be obtained on arrival. Please see important visa details sent with your invoice.
- INTERNAL FLIGHTS: This tour has an included internal flight; any excess luggage charges are at your own expense.
- LUGGAGE ALLOWANCE: Each guest is permitted one bag with maximum dimensions of 58 linear inches (147 cm), the total of length, width, and height - and a weight not exceeding 44 lbs (20 kg). Guests may also bring one personal item, such as a purse, backpack, or similarly sized item that fits comfortably under the seat in front of them or the overhead compartment weighing no more than 15 lbs (7kg).
- MOTORCOACH NOTE: The Business Class legroom that is provided on motorcoaches in other regions is not provided on this itinerary due to regional limitations with vehicles.
- THE GRAND EGYPTIAN MUSEUM: Starting 04NOV25, the GEM museum visit will replace the current visit to the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. Guests will be with their qualified Egyptologist Travel Director inside the museum, with some free time to explore independently or visit one of the many shops and food outlets onsite.
- GROUND HANDLER: This trip is operated by ground handler Spring Tours.
Policies
All purchases are subject to re-confirmation within 2-3 business days after booking. Please do not book airline tickets until you have received the confirmation.
Complete operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, is included on your e-ticket. You must print the e-tickets and take them along on your trip; they are your proof of purchase.
Travel Documents
Each passenger must carry a valid travel document. (Valid visa for countries needed) (E.g. Green Card, Passport, Re-Entry Permit, and etc.) Tour operator is not responsible for lost or stolen personal items.
Each passenger must carry a valid travel document. (Valid visa for countries needed) (E.g. Green Card, Passport, Re-Entry Permit, and etc.) Tour operator is not responsible for lost or stolen personal items.
Cancellation penalties per person (request day and departure day are not counted)
30 days or more prior to departure - $175/person penalty.
2-29 days or more prior to departure - $280/person penalty.
Day of departure no show or late - 100% per person.
If the tour include airtickets, additional $75+airline surcharge will be charged as penalty.
Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.
Trips require a minimum number of participants to avoid cancellation. We reserve the right to cancel a scheduled trip to fully refund affected customers although tour companies will make every effort to maintain normal operations.
The refund amount will be credited directly to your TakeTours wallet as credits for future use. Or the refund can also be forwarded directly to your credit card with a 6% handling fee.
NOTE: We cannot grant any refunds more than 30 days after completion of the tour.
30 days or more prior to departure - $175/person penalty.
2-29 days or more prior to departure - $280/person penalty.
Day of departure no show or late - 100% per person.
If the tour include airtickets, additional $75+airline surcharge will be charged as penalty.
Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.
Trips require a minimum number of participants to avoid cancellation. We reserve the right to cancel a scheduled trip to fully refund affected customers although tour companies will make every effort to maintain normal operations.
The refund amount will be credited directly to your TakeTours wallet as credits for future use. Or the refund can also be forwarded directly to your credit card with a 6% handling fee.
NOTE: We cannot grant any refunds more than 30 days after completion of the tour.
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