12 Days Egypt Tour: Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel & Wadi El Hitan | Hebton Tours
Highlights
Immerse yourself in a diverse and unforgettable 12-day journey through Egypt’s most spectacular historical and natural sites. This unique itinerary crafted by Hebton Tours seamlessly blends the iconic ancient wonders of the Nile Valley with the breathtaking desert landscapes of the Fayoum Oasis.
Begin in Cairo with the Great Pyramids and a special off-the-beaten-path excursion to Waddi Al Hittan (Valley of the Whales), a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its fascinating prehistoric fossils. Then, fly south to explore the sprawling temples of Luxor, the beautiful city of Aswan, and the monumental sun-aligned temples of King Ramses II at Abu Simbel. Experience the perfect mix of Pharaonic history and natural geological wonders.
Tour Information
Location: Cairo, Fayoum, Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan, Abu Simbel
Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights
Availability: Daily
Pickup & Drop-off: Cairo International Airport
Tour Type: Private Historical & Nature Tour
Prices per Person ;
Persons
1 Person
2-3 Persons
4-9 Persons
USD ($)
2,150$
1,750$
1,550$
Important Information & Flexibility
Abu Simbel Early Start: The drive to Abu Simbel from Aswan takes approximately 3 hours each way. We start early (around 4:00 AM) to avoid the extreme midday heat and the largest crowds.
Desert Safari: The trip to Wadi El Hitan involves off-road driving in a 4x4 vehicle. It is an adventurous but fully safe day trip guided by local desert experts.
Customization: This is a private tour. If you wish to upgrade to a Nile Cruise instead of land-based hotels between Luxor and Aswan, we can easily tailor the itinerary.
Health & Safety Tips
Footwear: You will be walking on uneven stones in ancient temples and sandy terrain in Fayoum. Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
Sun Protection: Bring a wide-brimmed hat, high-SPF sunscreen, and sunglasses, especially for the open-air sites in Upper Egypt and the Fayoum desert.
Hydration: It is crucial to stay hydrated. Always keep a bottle of water with you during excursions.
Upon your arrival at Cairo International Airport, a Hebton Tours representative will meet and assist you. You will be transferred in a private air-conditioned vehicle to your hotel in Cairo for check-in and an overnight stay to rest before your adventure begins.
After breakfast, start your day by exploring the Giza Plateau. Marvel at the Great Pyramids of Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinos, and stand before the legendary Great Sphinx. After lunch, visit the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, home to thousands of artifacts spanning 5,000 years of history. Return to your hotel for overnight in Cairo.
Embark on an exciting 4x4 desert adventure to the Fayoum Oasis. Visit the spectacular Qarun Lake and the waterfalls of Wadi El Rayan. Continue deep into the desert to Wadi El Hitan (Valley of the Whales), a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring perfectly preserved, 40-million-year-old whale fossils. Enjoy a camp-style lunch before returning to Cairo for overnight.
Check out from your Cairo hotel and transfer to the airport for a short flight to Luxor. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, visit the colossal Karnak Temple complex, the largest religious site ever built. Later, explore the beautifully illuminated Luxor Temple. Overnight in Luxor.
Cross the Nile to the West Bank to discover the Valley of the Kings, where pharaohs were buried in vibrant, hidden tombs. Visit the magnificent Temple of Queen Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari and stop for photos at the towering Colossi of Memnon. Enjoy a free evening and overnight in Luxor.
After breakfast, check out and enjoy a scenic drive south toward Aswan. Along the way, visit the wonderfully preserved Temple of Horus in Edfu. Continue to Kom Ombo to explore the unique double temple dedicated to Sobek the crocodile god and Haroeris the falcon god. Arrive in Aswan, check into your hotel, and overnight.
Depart early in the morning (around 4:00 AM) in a private, air-conditioned vehicle for the journey to Abu Simbel. Stand in awe of the massive twin temples of Ramses II and his beloved Queen Nefertari, saved from the rising waters of Lake Nasser in a historic UNESCO operation. Return to Aswan in the early afternoon for a relaxing evening and overnight stay.
Discover the highlights of Aswan. Visit the Aswan High Dam, a marvel of modern engineering. Take a motorboat ride to the beautiful Philae Temple, dedicated to the Goddess Isis, situated on an island. In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful ride on a traditional Felucca sailboat on the Nile. Overnight in Aswan.
Transfer to Aswan Airport for your flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival, dive into the spiritual heart of the city in Old Cairo (Coptic Cairo). Visit the historic Hanging Church and the Abu Serga Church, where the Holy Family rested. Continue to Islamic Cairo to see the Citadel of Saladin. Overnight in Cairo.
Explore the ancient necropolises south of Cairo. Visit the Step Pyramid of Djoser in Saqqara, the oldest major stone structure in the world. Continue to Memphis, the first capital of ancient Egypt, to see the colossal statue of Ramses II. Finally, visit Dahshur to explore the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid. Overnight in Cairo.
Enjoy a free morning to relax at your hotel or explore Cairo at your own pace. In the afternoon, dive into the bustling, vibrant alleys of Khan El Khalili, the oldest bazaar in the Middle East. It’s the perfect place to shop for souvenirs, spices, and traditional crafts. Overnight in Cairo.
Enjoy your final breakfast in Egypt. Check out of your hotel, and our representative will transfer you to Cairo International Airport for your departure flight, carrying unforgettable memories of Egypt's historical and natural wonders.
• Meet and assist services at the airport upon arrival and departure.
• 11 nights accommodation in 4 or 5-star hotels (Cairo, Luxor, Aswan) with daily breakfast.