πͺπ¬ 12 Days Egypt Budget Tour: Cairo, 3-Night Nile Cruise & Sharm El Sheikh Escape
English Speaking Guide
β¨ Discover the Best of Egypt on a Budget
Experience the perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation with this unforgettable 12-day Egypt Budget Tour. From the legendary pyramids of Cairo to the majestic temples along the Nile and the crystal-clear waters of Sharm El Sheikh, this journey offers incredible value while showcasing Egypt's most iconic destinations.
Whether you are traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, this carefully designed package allows you to explore Egypt comfortably without stretching your budget. Moreover, you'll enjoy a balance of guided sightseeing, scenic cruising, and leisure time by the Red Sea.
ποΈ Explore the Wonders of Cairo
Begin your Egyptian adventure in vibrant Cairo, where ancient civilization meets modern life. Marvel at the world-famous pyramids, stand before the enigmatic Sphinx, and immerse yourself in thousands of years of history.
Furthermore, Cairo offers fascinating museums, colorful bazaars, and authentic local experiences. As a result, you'll gain a deeper understanding of Egypt's remarkable heritage while enjoying the energy of one of Africa's largest cities.
π’ Sail Through History on a Nile Cruise
One of the highlights of this journey is a relaxing 3-night Nile Cruise between Aswan and Luxor. As you sail along the world's longest river, breathtaking landscapes and magnificent temples unfold before your eyes.
In addition, you'll discover some of Egypt's most treasured archaeological sites, including impressive temples, sacred monuments, and ancient wonders that have stood for thousands of years. The Nile Cruise provides a comfortable and scenic way to experience the heart of Ancient Egypt.
π Relax in Beautiful Sharm El Sheikh
After exploring Egypt's historical treasures, continue your adventure in the stunning resort city of Sharm El Sheikh. Located on the shores of the Red Sea, this paradise is famous for its golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life.
Whether you prefer snorkeling, diving, swimming, or simply unwinding by the sea, Sharm El Sheikh offers the perfect escape. Additionally, its sunny weather and relaxing atmosphere make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility.
π Why Choose This Egypt Budget Tour?
This package combines Egypt's most famous attractions with excellent value for money. Not only will you visit world-renowned historical sites, but you'll also enjoy a scenic Nile Cruise and a relaxing beach holiday.
Consequently, this tour is ideal for travelers who want a complete Egyptian experience while keeping costs affordable.
π― Experience Highlights
ποΈ Visit the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx
πΊ Explore world-famous museums and historical treasures
ποΈ Experience Egypt's colorful local markets
π’ Enjoy a memorable 3-night Nile Cruise
ποΈ Discover magnificent temples in Luxor and Aswan
π΄ Relax on the beautiful beaches of Sharm El Sheikh
π€Ώ Optional snorkeling and diving adventures in the Red Sea
πΈ Capture breathtaking desert, river, and sea landscapes
π Experience Egypt's unique culture and hospitality
π Enjoy unforgettable sunsets along the Nile and the Red Sea
π Tour Features
πΉ Budget-Friendly Package
πΉ Perfect Mix of Culture and Relaxation
πΉ Historical Landmarks and Ancient Wonders
πΉ Comfortable Accommodation
πΉ Scenic Nile River Experience
πΉ Stunning Red Sea Escape
πΉ Ideal for Couples, Families, and Solo Travelers
πΉ Professional Guided Sightseeing
π§³ Travel Tips for Egypt
βοΈ Pack light clothing for daytime and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
π§΄ Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
π΅ Carry small cash notes for tips and local purchases.
π± Keep your camera or smartphone charged for amazing photo opportunities.
π° Drink bottled water and stay hydrated throughout your journey.
π Wear comfortable walking shoes when visiting archaeological sites.
π€Ώ Bring swimwear if you plan to enjoy water activities in Sharm El Sheikh.
π Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
β€οΈ Create Memories That Last Forever
Egypt is a destination unlike any other. From the legendary monuments of Cairo to the timeless beauty of the Nile and the turquoise waters of Sharm El Sheikh, every moment offers something extraordinary. This 12-day budget tour delivers the perfect combination of adventure, culture, relaxation, and value, ensuring memories that will stay with you long after your journey ends.
Included
Excluded
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Egypt
Arrival to Egypt
Welcome to Cairo. Your tour begins when you are greeted by our representative who will assist you. After you have collected your luggage, he will then take you, in our deluxe vehicle, to your Cairo hotel.
Overnight in Cairo
Welcome drink
Day 2: πΊβ¨ Ancient Pyramids & Modern Wonders ππ
Included Activities: The Pyramid Complex β The Valley Temple β The Great Sphinx β The Grand Egyptian Museum
At 09 am you will meet your tour Guide and start your day to the great Pyramids area which includes:
Giza Pyramids Complex
The three main pyramids of Giza (Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure) are sufficient enough to build a 2-meter-long wall and span 100,000 square kilometers around the globe along with the equator.
The Great Pyramid (Extra Ticket to go inside)
The Great Pyramid of King Khufu is considered largely represents the spirit of ancient Egypt, King Khufu who built this Pyramid as a cemetery has left little information about his reign. Khufu ruled for about twenty-four years. Ironically, despite the enormity of his pyramid, the only statue of King Khufu himself is really small statue carved from ivory.
The Magical Sphinx
Who among us when mentioning the name of the Sphinx does not think about this stone sculpture that carved in the form of the human head and lion body, which is located in the Giza plateau in Egypt the Sphinx is one of the oldest and the largest sculptures in the world, itβs about 73.5 meters long and 6 meters wide.
The Valley Temple
It was used as a place for the embalming process. This temple constructed definitely for two functions: First, it was used for the purification of the mummy before its burial. Second, it was used for making the Mummification process of the king.
The Grand Egyptian Museum
The museum houses a collection of the most valuable Egyptian artifacts ever from various periods of the Egyptian civilization, from the Predynastic Period to Coptic Egypt, with an estimated total of over 100,000 artifacts, including at least 20,000 that will be displayed for the first time ever, including the complete King Tutankhamun collection comprising 5,398 pieces. The Tut collection is on display in a 7,500 m2 section of the museum. Rare pieces that have been restored will be displayed for the first time, such as the second solar ship of Khufu, the restoration of which cost $5 million, the collection of Queen Hetepheres (mother of King Khufu), and the collection of Yuya and Thuyu (parents of Queen Tiye).
Overnight in Cairo
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 3: βοΈπ Cairo to Aswan Luxury Escape | Flight, Day Tour π’β¨
Included Activities: Aswan High Dam β Philae Island Temples β the Unfinished Obelisk
A new day starts with breakfast, and then you will be driven catch your flight to Aswan where your guide will take you to see the High Dam, the Temples of Philae, the unfinished Obelisk, check in your Nile cruise and have lunch and then visit The Nubian village and the Botanical Island. Your visit includes:
Aswan High Dam
At Aswan High Dam, youβll hear from your tour guide the whole story of its construction and how it helped the Egyptians a lot to improve their economic and social state. Then, youβll move to witness the miraculous.
The Unfinished Obelisk
The Unfinished Obelisk was supposed to be standing in front of Hatshepsut Temple but some cracks happened to it which leads Queen Hatshepsut to order her men to move it to Aswan and it is characterized with its majestic size.
Philae Temples
Philae Temple was constructed in 690 B.C and it had been relocated with the help of the UNESCO because it was in great danger from the High & Low Dams of Aswan. It was dedicated to goddess Isis.
Optional Tour to the Nubian Village & The Botanical Island
Discover the colorful culture of Nubia, one of Africa's oldest civilizations, traveling by felucca sailboat or modern motorboat, you'll meet locals, visit a traditional house, drink tea, and have free time to explore villages independently while Kitchenerβs Island, to the west of Elephantine Island, was given to Lord Horatio Kitchener in the 1890s when he was commander of the Egyptian army. Kitchener turned the entire island into the stunning Aswan Botanical Gardens, importing plants from the Far East, India and parts of Africa.
After the end of the tour, you will be driven to your 5 stars Nile Cruise where you will have your lunch meal and make your check in then the rest of the day is yours. Dinner will be served onboard and overnight in Aswan.
Overnight in Nile Cruise
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: πKom Ombo Discovery: Crocodile God Temple & Return to Nile Cruise π
Included Activities ( The Temple Of Kom Ombo)
Enjoy sun bathing and tea time on the deck of the Cruise. Once a shore you will visit the Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to the gods Horus and Sobek. After this great visit you will return back to the cruise for your dinner being served as it sails majestically towards Edfu.
The temple of Sobek in Kom Ombo
The Temple of Kom Ombo is an unusual double temple in the town of Kom Ombo in Aswan Governorate, Upper Egypt. It was constructed during the Ptolemaic dynasty, 180β47 BC. Some additions to it were later made during the Roman period. The building is unique because its 'double' design meant that there were courts, halls, sanctuaries and rooms duplicated for two sets of gods.
After the visit, you will be taken back to the boat for your dinner while it sails onward to Edfu, home of the best-preserved temple in Egypt: The Temple of Horus.
Optional Tour Abu Simbel Temples
Abu Simbel temple complex includes 2 individual temples that were built during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II. The great temple was built for the king himself to commemorate his coronation and his birthday and it has been built in a very impressive accurate way which makes the whole world await the Sun Festival that occurs only twice a year in the great temple of the Pharaoh to witness the miracle that occurs there. The smaller temple was built as a sign of love & appreciation from the king to his beloved queen Nefertari and she was the only wife of the king for whom he has built a temple.
Overnight in Nile Cruise
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: ποΈβ¨ Temples of the Nile Day Tour ππ’
Included Activities ( The Temple Of Horus β The Temple of Luxor)
You can enjoy an early breakfast. Once the boat is moored you will visit the best-preserved temple in Egypt: The Temple of Horus. After your visit to this superb temple you will be taken back to the boat for your lunch while the cruise boat crosses the Esna lock to the city of Esna and continue sailing to Luxor.
Edfu Temple
Edfu temple which was dedicated to Horus, the son of Isis and Osiris and its walls are really impressive with its inscriptions and pictures showing Horus having his revenge from Seth the brother of his father Osiris. It is the best preserved and most complete in Egypt temple and second largest after Karnak.
After your visit to this superb temple, you will be taken back to the boat in plenty of time before it departs Edfu and sets sail for Esna. Once you reach Esna you will watch as it sails through the Esna locks. Once through the locks, the boat continues on its course towards Luxor, once the boat is moored you will visit the Temple of Luxor. Then return back to the cruise for dinner and overnight in Luxor.
The temple of Luxor
The Temple of Luxor was the center of the most important festivals and one of the best temples which you will visit. Itβs one of the most important and famous ancient Egyptian temples, located in the city of Luxor, which is about 700 km from Cairo, itβs an important tourist destination for its monuments and its distinctive weather, which makes it a wonderful destination for tourists from all over the world.
After the visit, you will be taken back to the boat for your dinner while after dinner you can go out or you can rest in the cruise.
Overnight in Nile Cruise
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner
Optional Tour Sound & light show in Karnak
Enjoy Luxor Tours Watching Karnak Temple Sound and Light Show on the east bank illuminated at night with an audio-visual show that will explain how the temple was built and what life was like in Ancient Egypt. We will give you the chance to discover how life has been thousands of years ago? You will know about them through the splendid Sound and Light Show at the Karnak Temples. This spectacle will take about 75-minute first takes you around the temple grounds, and finally, the last act is played while you are seated along the Great Sacred Lake. The performance relates the history of Luxor as the capital of the ancient world.
Day 6: πΊβ¨ Luxor Royal Treasures Tour ππ
Included Activities: Hatshepsut Temple β Colossi of Memnon β 3 tombs in the Valley of the Kings tombs of (Merenptah β Ramses III β Ramses IV β Karnak Temples)
Morning time, we will pick you up from your hotel in Aswan after having your breakfast, then drive you to Luxor hotel to check in and have some rest then take the chance to enjoy the exploration of the ancient city of Luxor and its impressive architectural heritage monuments, starting with:
The Complex of Karnak Temples
Built over two millennia between the years of around 2200 and 360 BCE, Karnak is a massive Ancient Egyptian temple complex that was one of the country's most important places of worship under the rules of Hatshepsut, Seti I, Ramesses II and Ramesses III.
The Valley of the Kings
The rulers of the Eighteenth, Nineteenth, and Twentieth Dynasties of Egyptβs prosperous New Kingdom (c.1550β1069 BC) were buried in a desolate dry river valley across the river from the ancient city of Thebes (modern Luxor), hence its modern name of the Valley of the Kings. This moniker is not entirely accurate, however, since some members of the royal family aside from the king were buried here as well, as were a few non-royal, albeit very high-ranking, individuals.
The Tomb of King Merenptah
Β The second-largest tomb in the valley, Merenptahβs tomb has been open since antiquity and has its share of Greek and Coptic graffiti. Floods have damaged the lower part of the walls of the long tunnel-like tomb, but the upper parts have well-preserved reliefs. The corridors are decorated with the Book of the Dead, the Book of Gates and the Book of Amduat. Beyond a shaft is a false burial chamber with two pillars decorated with the Book of Gates.
The Tomb of King Ramses III
One of the most popular tombs in the valley, KV 11 is also one of the most interesting and best preserved. Originally started by Sethnakht (1186β1184 BC), the project was abandoned when workers hit the shaft of another tomb (KV10). Work resumed under Ramses III (1184β1153 BC), the last of Egyptβs warrior pharaohs, with the corridor turning to the right, then left. It continues deep (125m overall) into the mountain and opens into a magnificent eight-pillared burial chamber.
The Tomb of King Ramses IV
Β Originally intended to be much larger, KV 2 was cut short at 89m on the early death of the pharaoh (1147 BC) and a pillared hall was converted to be the burial chamber. The sarcophagus is in place with a magnificent goddess Nut filling the ceiling above it. Close to the entrance of the valley, this tomb was opened in antiquity and inhabited (there is Greek, Roman and Coptic graffiti), and used as a hotel by many 18th- and 19th-century visitors.
The Temple of Hatshepsut
Hatshepsut (c.1473β1458 BC), the queen who became Pharaoh, built a magnificent temple at Deir al-Bahari, on the west back of Luxor. It lies directly across the Nile from Karnak Temple, the main sanctuary of the god Amun. Hatshepsutβs temple, Djeser-djeseru βthe Holy of Holiesβ was designed by the chief steward of Amun, Senenmut.
The Colossi of Memnon
These two faceless colossi (the plural of colossus, which just means larger-than-life statue) are the first thing visitors see when they reach the west bank of the Nile opposite Luxor. This isn't surprising when you hear their dimensions: they tower 60 feet (18 m) above the plains and are estimated to weigh an enormous 720 tons each.
Lunch will be served at a high-quality restaurant then proceed driving back to your Luxor airport to catch your flight back to Cairo and overnight
Overnight in Cairo Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7: πCairo to Sharm El Sheikh Escape β Journey to the Red Sea Paradise ποΈ
πCairo to Sharm El Sheikh Escape β Journey to the Red Sea Paradise ποΈ
Leave the bustling streets of Cairo behind and enjoy a comfortable drive to the breathtaking resort city of Sharm El Sheikh. Travel through Egyptβs stunning desert landscapes as you head toward the crystal-clear waters and golden beaches of the Red Sea. Upon arrival, unwind at your resort and get ready to experience relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable seaside charm.
Overnight in Sharm Hotel
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 8: βοΈ Sharm El Sheikh Leisure Escape β A Day of Relaxation & Adventure ποΈ
βοΈ Sharm El Sheikh Leisure Escape β A Day of Relaxation & Adventure ποΈ
Enjoy a free day at leisure in the stunning resort city of Sharm El Sheikh, where relaxation meets adventure on the shores of the crystal-clear Red Sea. Spend your day soaking up the sunshine on golden beaches, exploring vibrant local markets, or joining optional activities such as snorkeling, diving, desert safaris, or yacht cruises. Whether you seek tranquility or excitement, Sharm El Sheikh offers the perfect escape for every traveler.
Overnight in Sharm Hotel
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 9: β°οΈβ¨ St. Catherine Monastery Adventure β Sacred Sinai Discovery ππ
Included Activities: Saint Catherineβs Monastery
Embark on a fascinating day trip from Sharm El Sheikh to the breathtaking St. Catherine region, nestled at the foot of the majestic Sinai Mountains. Discover one of the worldβs oldest working monasteries, rich in history, spirituality, and ancient treasures. Explore the sacred atmosphere, admire remarkable religious icons, and enjoy the stunning desert landscapes that make this journey an unforgettable experience.
Saint Catherineβs Monastery
In the morning you leave Sharm El Sheikh and drive 2.5 hours to St. Catherine Monastery.
In the monastery, you visit the service, see the ancient icons, the well of Moses, and the Unburnt Thornbush. Also visit the Basilica of Transfiguration, the old refectory, chapels, and the ancient cemetery.
The eponymous Saint Catherine of Alexandria was martyred in the early 4th century AD. The monastery bears her name because its monks discovered her incorrupt body on nearby Mount Saint Catherine in the 9th century AD, where it had been deposited by angels after her martyrdom. The monastery encompasses multiple structures, the most important of which is the Church of the Transfiguration of Christ the Savior, which itself contains nine smaller churches. One of these is the Church of the Burning Bush, from which God had spoken to the prophet Moses. Saint Catherineβs Monastery also includes ten other churches, the monksβ accommodations, a refectory, an olive press, ossuaries, a Fatimid Mosque from the 12th century AD, and a library that boasts rare books and6,000 manuscripts. Then go to Dahab, have lunch and visit the market. At 16:00 you return to Sharm El Sheikh.
After you finish your day tour. You will be taken back to your hotel. We hope you enjoyed your quad bike safari in Sharm El Sheikh.
Overnight in Sharm Hotel
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 10: π Scenic Journey from Sharm El Sheikh to Cairo ποΈ
π Scenic Journey from Sharm El Sheikh to Cairo ποΈ
Enjoy a comfortable drive from the beautiful shores of Sharm El Sheikh back to Cairo, Egyptβs vibrant and historic capital. Relax during the scenic journey as desert landscapes unfold along the way, connecting the tranquility of the Red Sea with the timeless energy of Cairo. Upon arrival, prepare to continue your Egyptian adventure surrounded by ancient history, lively streets, and unforgettable cultural experiences.
Overnight in Cairo Hotel
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 11: ποΈ Cairoβs Timeless Treasures | and Shopping adventure β¨
Included Activities: NMEC, Citadel & Khan El Khalili
Experience the magic of historic Cairo on an unforgettable day tour to the magnificent National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, home to the royal mummies and Egyptβs greatest cultural masterpieces. Continue to the iconic Cairo Citadel and admire the stunning Mosque of Mohamed Ali with breathtaking panoramic views over Cairo. End your journey wandering through the vibrant lanes of Khan el-Khalili bazaar, where oriental charm, local crafts, and authentic Egyptian atmosphere create a truly unforgettable experience.
The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization.
The first museum of civilization in the Arab world, the NMEC will present a comprehensive view of Egyptian civilization from prehistory to the present day, taking a multidisciplinary thematic approach designed to highlight Egyptβs tangible and intangible heritage. A museum of a new kind, unknown so far in Egypt and the entire Middle East region, the NMECβs main goal is to βshare knowledgeβ, to connect with the surrounding Egyptian society and to offer international visitors a richer and deeper insight into the meaning of Egyptian culture.
The Citadel of Cairo
Salah Al-Deen (known as Saladin to European historians) overthrew the Fatimid dynasty in 1171 AD, establishing the new Sunni Ayyubid Caliphate. Given the threat of invasion by European crusader armies, Saladin decided to improve the fortifications of the city and in 1176 AD he began construction of a wall that would encircle both Al-Qahira (today Islamic) and Fustat (Old Cairo). Saladinβs Citadel served as the seat of government in Egypt for 700 years until Khedive Ismail moved into Abdin Palace in newly constructed Downtown Cairo in the 1870βs.
Β Mohamed Ali Mosque
The Mosque of Muhammad Ali is located inside the Citadel of Salah alβDin alβAyyubi (Saladin) in Cairo. It was built by Muhammad Ali Pasha (1220β1264 AH/1805β1848 AD), the founder of the Muhammad Ali Dynasty (1220β1372 AH/1805β1953 AD), on the site of Mamluk palaces. He had these demolished to make room for his new building, which is also known as the "Alabaster Mosque", in reference to its marble paneling on its interior and exterior walls. The mosqueβs twin minarets are the highest in all of Egypt, each reaching a height of 84 meters.
Coptic Churches in Old Cairo
Coptic Cairo is unique area with Old Cairo that has a concentration of Christian churches and other sites that date from the centuries between the decline of the pharaonic religion and the arrival of Islam when Egypt had a Christian majority. Coptic Cairo is largely built around the fort of Babylon on upon the remains of its walls.
Β Muizz St & Khan El Khalili
Afterward, dive into the lively heart of Cairo at the famous Khan El Khalili Bazaar. This historic market is one of the oldest bazaars in the Middle East and remains a vibrant center of culture and local life.
Here, narrow streets overflow with colorful lanterns, handmade crafts, perfumes, spices, jewelry, and authentic Egyptian souvenirs. In addition, the market is filled with traditional cafΓ©s where you can relax and enjoy Egyptian tea or fresh mint drinks while soaking in the lively atmosphere. Without a doubt, Khan El Khalili offers the perfect place to experience the true spirit of Cairo.
Overnight in Cairo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 12: We will miss you
Cairo Final Departure
Your final day starts with breakfast at the hotel followed by check-out. You will then be transferred to the airport for your final departure.