10-Days itinerary from Cairo to Abu Simbel
Enjoy a 10-day adventure through Egypt, starting with the historical treasures of Coptic Cairo, Islamic Cairo, and the iconic Pyramids of Giza. Explore the Grand Egyptian Museum, then discover the beauty of El Fayoum Oasis and the ancient wonders of Alexandria. In Luxor, visit Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, and the Valley of the Kings. Continue to Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Aswan, where you’ll see the High Dam, Philae Temple, and the Abu Simbel Temples. Enjoy daily lunches, and relax on a free day in Cairo before your transfer to the airport. Every day includes seamless pickup and drop-off for a smooth and unforgettable journey.
Day 1: Explore Old Cairo
Begin your journey in Egypt with a fascinating exploration of Old Cairo. After being picked up from your hotel or Cairo airport, you’ll first visit Coptic Cairo, home to some of Egypt’s most significant Christian landmarks. Visit the Hanging Church, also known as St. Virgin Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church, and the Abu Serga Church, which holds a rich historical significance. Don’t miss the Ben Ezra Synagogue, an ancient site steeped in history. In the afternoon, you will explore the vibrant Islamic Cairo, where you’ll visit the Citadel of Saladin—a massive medieval Islamic Cairo fortress that once defended the city. Admire the architectural brilliance of the Mohamed Ali Mosque, offering panoramic views of Cairo. Then, spend time at the bustling Khan El Khalili Bazaar, a famous market where you can purchase traditional crafts, jewelry, spices, and souvenirs. A delicious lunch will be served at a local restaurant where you can sample some traditional Egyptian dishes, including koshari and ful medames. At the end of the day, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel for a restful overnight stay.
Day 2: Pyramids of Giza
On Day 2, your adventure takes you to the iconic Pyramids of Giza. After being picked up from your hotel, you will marvel at the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure—the ancient wonders that have captivated the world for millennia. You’ll also visit the Great Sphinx, the majestic statue with the head of a pharaoh and the body of a lion, and explore the Valley Temple, located near the Pyramids. After a morning of awe-inspiring sights, a lunch break will be provided at a local restaurant near Giza, offering a chance to taste Egyptian specialties. In the afternoon, you’ll head to the Grand Egyptian Museum to explore its world-renowned collection, including treasures from the tomb of Tutankhamun. At the end of the day, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Cairo for a relaxing evening.
Day 3: El Fayoum Oasis
Start your journey to the El Fayoum Oasis, an area rich in both natural beauty and ancient history. After being picked up from your hotel in Cairo, you will visit the stunning Wadi El Rayan, known for its picturesque waterfalls and tranquil natural springs. Next, head to Wadi El Hitan, or the Valley of the Whales, where you’ll encounter ancient fossilized remains of prehistoric whales, a UNESCO World Heritage site. After a day filled with ancient wonders, you’ll enjoy a lunch at a local restaurant in El Fayoum, savoring fresh regional dishes. In the afternoon, visit Qarun Lake for a peaceful boat ride, followed by a stop at the ancient Karanis ruins, a site that showcases the remnants of a Greco-Roman town. Afterward, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel in Cairo for the night.
Day 4: Alexandria
On Day 4, travel to Alexandria, Egypt’s historic Mediterranean city. Your private transfer will take you directly from your Cairo hotel to Alexandria. Upon arrival, start your tour with the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, an underground burial site that blends Egyptian, Greek, and Roman architectural styles. Next, explore the towering Pompey’s Pillar, followed by the Roman Amphitheater, which is remarkably well-preserved. You’ll also visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern-day library that honors the legacy of the ancient Library of Alexandria, before heading to the Qaitbay Citadel, a fortress offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. A delicious lunch will be served at a seaside restaurant in Alexandria, offering fresh seafood and local specialties. Afterward, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel in Cairo for a well-deserved rest.
Day 5 : Explore the East Bank of Luxor
On Day 4, your journey begins with a morning transfer from your hotel in Cairo to Cairo International Airport for a short flight to Luxor, the ancient city often referred to as the “world’s greatest open-air museum.” Upon arrival at Luxor Airport, your knowledgeable tour guide will meet you and take you straight to explore the wonders of the East Bank of Luxor.
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Your first stop will be the colossal Karnak Temple, a vast temple complex dedicated to the Theban Triad of gods, including Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. As one of the largest religious sites in the world, Karnak is known for its hypostyle hall, which features 134 massive columns, and its famous Obelisk of Thutmose I. Your guide will explain the rich history of this temple, which was built over a span of 2,000 years, and its importance as the spiritual center of ancient Egypt.
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Next, you will visit the Luxor Temple, an architectural masterpiece built by Amenhotep III and later added to by Ramses II. This temple is renowned for its beautifully preserved statues of Ramses II and the grand avenue of sphinxes that once connected it to Karnak. The Luxor Temple played a key role in the Opet Festival, a yearly celebration honoring the gods. Your guide will bring the history of this sacred site to life, explaining its role in ancient Egyptian religious rituals and kingship.
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After visiting these iconic temples, enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savor authentic Egyptian cuisine, including dishes such as koshari, falafel, and grilled kebabs.
In the afternoon, you’ll be transferred to your Luxor hotel, where you can relax and reflect on your day of historical exploration. Luxor’s peaceful atmosphere by the Nile River offers a perfect place to unwind, and you may choose to take a stroll along the riverbanks or simply enjoy the comfort of your hotel as you prepare for the next day of your Luxor adventure.
Day 6: West Bank of Luxor Highlights
Day 6 takes you to the awe-inspiring West Bank of Luxor. Begin with a visit to the Valley of the Kings, one of Egypt’s most famous archaeological sites. Explore the tombs of legendary pharaohs such as Tutankhamun, Ramses II, and many more. The vibrant wall paintings and intricate carvings inside the tombs offer a glimpse into ancient Egypt’s beliefs and practices surrounding the afterlife. Continue your journey to the Hatshepsut Temple, a stunning architectural marvel dedicated to Egypt’s first female pharaoh. This temple, nestled beneath towering cliffs, is famous for its colonnaded structure and striking design. Afterward, stop at the Colossi of Memnon, two massive statues that have stood for millennia, guarding the funerary temple of Amenhotep III. Following a fulfilling day of exploration, return to your hotel in Luxor to rest and reflect on the incredible sights you’ve experienced.
Day 7: Edfu & Kom Ombo Temples
On Day 7, travel to Edfu to explore the Temple of Horus, one of Egypt’s most complete and best-preserved temples. Continue your journey to Kom Ombo, where you’ll visit the unique dual-temple dedicated to both Sobek, the crocodile god, and Haroeris, the falcon god. After a day full of archaeological wonders, enjoy a lunch at a local restaurant near Kom Ombo before transferring to Aswan for your overnight stay.
Day 8: Aswan Highlights
Begin your day with a visit to the Aswan High Dam, an incredible engineering feat that controls the flooding of the Nile and provides hydroelectric power to the region. Next, take a boat ride to Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis and located on an island in the Nile. Optionally, you can visit the Unfinished Obelisk, a massive obelisk that was abandoned during its construction. After your morning exploration, you’ll enjoy a lunch in Aswan before spending the afternoon relaxing or shopping in the local markets. In the evening, enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Aswan before heading back to your hotel for the night.
Day 9: Abu Simbel Temples
On Day 9, take an early morning trip to the Abu Simbel Temples, two grand temples carved into the cliffs of Nubia, built by Ramses II in honor of himself and his queen, Nefertari. These temples are a UNESCO World Heritage site and an engineering marvel. After your visit, you’ll head back to Aswan for a relaxing lunch, before catching a flight back to Cairo for an overnight stay.
Day 10: Cairo – Free Day and Departure
On your final day in Egypt, enjoy a free day to relax or take part in optional activities. You can explore more of Cairo, visit local shops, or enjoy a Felucca ride along the Nile River. If you prefer a more tranquil experience, indulge in a relaxing spa day or visit some of Cairo’s top museums. A lunch break will be provided at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, you will be transferred from your hotel to Cairo International Airport for your flight home, bringing your unforgettable Egyptian adventure to a close.