Exclusive Egypt Tour: Discover Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel

Start your day with a trip to Saqqara, home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser—the first pyramid ever built in Egypt. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Giza Plateau where the world-famous Great Pyramids await. Stand before the colossal structures of Pharaohs Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, and don't forget to stop by the Sphinx, whose mysteries have captivated people for centuries.

Pro Tip: Bring a camera and plenty of water as you’ll be walking a lot in the desert heat.

Day 3: Day Trip to Alexandria

On Day 3, take a scenic drive or train ride to the coastal city of Alexandria, Egypt’s second-largest city, known for its rich Greek, Roman, and Egyptian heritage. Start your tour with the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern library that honors the ancient Library of Alexandria. Then visit the Qaitbay Citadel, a stunning fortress overlooking the Mediterranean, built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria.

Don’t miss a stroll along the Alexandria Corniche, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the sea. If time permits, visit the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, one of the most important archaeological sites in Alexandria, which offers a glimpse into the city’s Greco-Roman past.

Pro Tip: Enjoy some fresh seafood along the coast—Alexandria is famous for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine!

After breakfast, take a morning flight to Luxor, often referred to as the world’s greatest open-air museum. Your first stop is the Valley of the Kings, the final resting place of numerous pharaohs, including the famous tomb of Tutankhamun. Explore the elaborate tombs adorned with colorful hieroglyphs and murals that tell the stories of Egypt's ancient rulers.

Next, visit the stunning Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a unique architectural marvel dedicated to one of Egypt’s few female pharaohs. Nestled into the cliffs, the temple stands as a tribute to Hatshepsut’s reign.

Pro Tip: To avoid the midday heat, try to visit these sites early in the morning or late afternoon.

On Day 5, begin your exploration of Karnak Temple, one of Egypt’s largest and most impressive temple complexes. Known for its grand Hypostyle Hall, this vast site showcases towering columns and statues dedicated to the god Amun. You’ll also find impressive obelisks, pylons, and sacred lakes that were central to the ancient Egyptian religious practices.

Afterward, take a visit to the Colossi of Memnon, the two towering statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III that have stood guard at the entrance to his mortuary temple for over 3,000 years.

Pro Tip: Consider taking a horse-drawn carriage or private car to get between the sites, as they are spread out across the area.

Today, take a morning flight to Aswan, a tranquil city known for its beauty and cultural heritage. Start your day by visiting the Temple of Isis at Philae, located on an island in the Nile. The temple is accessible only by boat, offering a scenic and peaceful introduction to Aswan.

Next, take a trip to the Nubian Village, a colorful and vibrant area where you can experience traditional Nubian culture. You’ll have the opportunity to interact with the locals, enjoy Nubian music, and explore the village’s unique architecture.

In the afternoon, visit the Unfinished Obelisk, a giant stone sculpture abandoned during its construction, and the High Dam, a marvel of modern engineering that controls the flow of the Nile.

Pro Tip: Spend the evening enjoying local Nubian cuisine at one of the riverside restaurants. The dishes are often flavorful and include plenty of fish from the Nile.

Start your final day with a relaxing Felucca boat ride on the Nile. These traditional wooden boats offer a peaceful way to enjoy the river and admire Aswan’s picturesque scenery. A leisurely ride allows you to see local life on the river, from fishermen casting nets to families enjoying the calm waters.

In the afternoon, catch a flight to Abu Simbel to see the legendary temples built by Ramses II. The colossal statues of Ramses and his queen Nefertari stand guard over these incredible monuments, carved into the mountainside.

After the Abu Simbel visit, return to Cairo for your departure or onward travel.

Pro Tip: The Abu Simbel temples are a must-see, so don’t rush. Take time to soak in the grandeur of the site.

Final Thoughts and Tips for Your Egyptian Journey

This 7-day Egypt itinerary has something for every traveler, from ancient tombs to modern temples, from bustling markets to tranquil villages. The journey offers a balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation, allowing you to fully experience Egypt’s unique charm.

Before you go, remember to:

• Pack light, comfortable clothing, and sturdy walking shoes.
• Stay hydrated, especially when exploring outdoor sites.
• Respect local customs, particularly when visiting religious or sacred sites.

Make sure to take lots of photos and enjoy every moment of your Egyptian adventure!