6-day Cairo and Nile cruise tour, Cairo to Luxor via Aswan
Visit Giza Plateau, the Grand Egyptian Museum, Aswan and a three-night Nile cruise calling at Kom Ombo and Edfu en route to Luxor
At a glance
- Length
- 6 days · 5 nights
- Departs
- Daily
The short answer
6-Day Cairo and Nile Cruise Tour Package is a 6-day multi-day tour covering Cairo, Aswan, Kom Ombo, Edfu, and Luxor in Egypt, operated by Discovery Tours Egypt.
- New
Snapshot
Good to know
- Duration
- 6 Days / 5 Nights
- Travel style
- Private Guided Multi-Day Tour with arranged Nile cruise segment
- Accommodation
- Cairo Hotel + Nile Cruise Arranged by Discovery Tours Egypt
- Operated by
- Discovery Tours Egypt
- Destinations
- Cairo · Giza Plateau · Grand Egyptian Museum · Aswan · Aswan High Dam · Philae Temple · Kom Ombo · Edfu · Luxor · Karnak Temple · Valley of the Kings · Temple of Hatshepsut · Colossi of Memnon
- Includes
- Meet and assist at Cairo Airport · Private Egyptologist guide · Private air-conditioned transfers · 2 nights Cairo hotel with breakfast · 3 nights Nile cruise with meals as stated · Domestic flights Cairo-Aswan and Luxor-Cairo · Entrance fees to listed attractions · Bottled water during touring days
- Best for
- First-time visitors · History enthusiasts · Couples · Adult families · Travelers wanting a Cairo and Upper Egypt overview
- Guide languages
- English
Best time to go
The most comfortable months are usually October to April, when daytime temperatures in Cairo, Aswan, and Luxor are milder and sightseeing is easier. May to September is hotter, especially in Upper Egypt, so early-morning visits and lighter clothing become more important. During Ramadan and major public holidays, opening hours and crowd patterns can change, so daily timing may need adjustment.
- Licensed Egyptian tour operator
- Private Egyptologist guide for all sightseeing days
- Private air-conditioned transfers throughout the itinerary
- Entrance fees included for all listed attractions
- On-the-ground itinerary coordination from arrival to departure
- Domestic flights included between Cairo, Aswan, and Cairo as stated
- 24/7 assistance during the trip planning and travel process
02 Overview
A first look
By 7 am the limestone on the Giza Plateau is still cool underfoot and the first shafts of sun pick out Khufu's profile while Cairo's traffic is still a distant hum. Expect a morning when the light is quiet, the tour groups thin, and our Egyptologists point out construction details you would miss at midday.
As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we coordinate local guides and timings, and we do not run group bus tours. Your Egyptologist meets you in Cairo, plans visits to avoid the busiest hours where possible, and advises on practical pacing between the city and the Nile sections of the itinerary.
Background
The facts
This 6-day Egypt tour starts in Cairo, continues by domestic flight to Aswan, then follows the Nile north to Luxor before returning to Cairo. The route links major sites in two regions: the Giza Plateau and Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo, and the Nile Valley monuments of Aswan, Kom Ombo, Edfu, and Luxor. The itinerary combines hotel nights in Cairo with a three-night Nile cruise segment arranged as part of the package and operated by a third-party cruise supplier.
In Cairo, the tour includes the Giza Pyramids, the Valley Temple of Khafre, the Great Sphinx, and the Grand Egyptian Museum. The Giza Plateau sits on the west bank of the Nile opposite modern Cairo, while the museum near Giza provides access to major collections from ancient Egypt, including Tutankhamun material where galleries are open. Standard entrance fees are included for the listed sites; pyramid interiors are not included unless specifically requested.
In Aswan, the program covers the High Dam and Philae Temple, which is reached by motorboat from the Nile area to Agilkia Island. The cruise then sails north, with stops at Kom Ombo Temple and Edfu Temple. Kom Ombo is known for its double temple plan dedicated to Sobek and Horus, while Edfu preserves one of the best-preserved temples of the Ptolemaic period.
The final sightseeing day in Luxor covers Karnak Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut’s Mortuary Temple at Deir el-Bahari, and the Colossi of Memnon, plus an evening visit to Luxor Temple. Luxor lies roughly 670 km south of Cairo by road but is connected in this itinerary by domestic flight and Nile sailing. The schedule is suitable for travelers who want a compact overview of Egypt’s best-known archaeological sites without self-driving or arranging intercity logistics independently.
Named in this entry
Giza Pyramids · Great Sphinx · Valley Temple of Khafre · Grand Egyptian Museum · Aswan High Dam · Philae Temple · Kom Ombo Temple · Edfu Temple · Luxor Temple · Karnak Temple · Valley of the Kings · Temple of Hatshepsut · Colossi of Memnon · Nile River · Agilkia Island · Tutankhamun
Suited to
Is this for you?
Yes, if
- This itinerary is suited to first-time visitors, couples, and adult families who want a structured overview of Cairo, Aswan, and Luxor in one trip. It also suits travelers with moderate walking tolerance who are comfortable with early starts, airport transfers, and site visits that may involve uneven ground and stairs.
What lingers
- 01 Enter the Giza Plateau to see Khufu, Khafre and the Great Sphinx at a quieter time of day
- 02 Visit the Grand Egyptian Museum, viewing its Tutankhamun galleries where open to the public
- 03 Aswan visit including the Aswan High Dam and Philae Temple by motorboat
- 04 Three-night Nile cruise calling at Kom Ombo and Edfu while travelling north to Luxor
- 05 Evening visit to Luxor Temple, plus full-day exploration of Karnak Temple
- 06 West Bank tour including the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut’s Mortuary Temple and the Colossi of Memnon
Worth knowing
How this compares
Unlike a Cairo-only tour, this package combines the capital with the Upper Egypt Nile Valley so travelers see both the Giza Plateau and the major temple and tomb sites between Aswan and Luxor. Unlike a self-planned trip, it includes private transfers, domestic flights, hotel nights, and a guided sightseeing schedule. Compared with a day-trip format, the overland and cruise segments reduce same-day backtracking and make it possible to visit Kom Ombo and Edfu en route to Luxor. The itinerary is also more structured than independent travel because site tickets, transfers, and timing are coordinated in advance.
Day by day
Detailed itinerary
6 Days / 5 Nights · Cairo · Giza Plateau · Grand Egyptian Museum · Aswan · Aswan High Dam · Philae Temple
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- 6
Choose your comfort level
Prices are per person in USD, from 2 people sharing a double room, including accommodation. Prefer to arrange your own hotels? See the land-only option below.
Comfort
from $3,945 ppClassic
from $4,385 ppPrestige
from $4,825 ppLuxury
from $7,015 ppLand only — no accommodationfrom $2,465 pp
Tour, transfers and guiding only; you arrange your own hotels and the Nile cruise.
Indicative rates only – pricing and departure fluctuate. Please enquire for live rates on your specific dates.
Bundled in
- Airport transfer
- Private transfer
- Private Egyptologist
- All entry tickets
- Domestic flight
- Breakfast
The fine print
What's included – and what isn't
Included
- Meet and assist on arrival at Cairo Airport
- Private Egyptologist guide for all sightseeing days
- All transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle
- 2 nights in a Cairo hotel, room and breakfast
- 3 nights aboard a Nile cruise, cabin and specified meals
- Domestic flight from Cairo to Aswan
- Domestic flight from Luxor to Cairo
- Nile dinner cruise in Cairo
- Entrance fees to all attractions listed in the itinerary
- Meals as specified per day aboard the cruise
- Bottled water during touring days
- All applicable taxes and service charges
Not included
- International flights to and from Egypt
- Visa fees on arrival or prior to travel
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses and optional activities
- Tips for guides and drivers, unless pre-booked
- Meals not listed in the daily itinerary
- Optional accommodation upgrades
Tailor it
Make it yours
The itinerary can be adjusted as a private tour with more flexible timing at key sites or as a fixed-date arrangement depending on availability. Common modifications include adding premium hotel categories, extending the Cairo stay, upgrading meals, or adding optional experiences not already listed in the itinerary. If requested, the cruise segment and hotel nights can be matched to different accommodation standards, subject to supplier availability.
All requests handled by your dedicated specialist before booking.
Accessibility
Who can join this
This tour requires a moderate level of mobility and includes walking on uneven surfaces, steps and cobbles at archaeological sites. The Giza Plateau, Luxor West Bank and Valley of the Kings have uneven limestone, carved stone steps and short steep ramps; some tombs have low, narrow passages and are not suitable for those who cannot stoop or climb unaided. Philae Temple requires a short motorboat transfer and a gangway, which can be awkward for guests with limited balance. Our vehicles can carry folding wheelchairs, and drivers will load and unload mobility aids, but many sites do not have full ramp access or level paths. If you use a wheelchair, scooter or need close personal assistance, tell us before booking so we can advise which parts of the itinerary are realistic, request airport assistance for domestic flights, and where additional help can be arranged. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and we will meet you on arrival to discuss practical adjustments on the ground.
Before you go
What to pack & wear
What to bring
- Valid passport plus a photocopy
- Travel insurance details and emergency contact numbers
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip
- Sun protection, hat and sunglasses
- Sunscreen SPF30 or higher and lip balm
- Small daypack and a refillable water bottle
- Any personal medication in original packaging
- Flight e-tickets and contact details for your arrival flight
What to wear
- Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing for daytime heat
- Long trousers or skirts and covered shoulders for temples and mosques
- A light jumper or shawl for early mornings and air-conditioned interiors
- Sturdy closed shoes for uneven stone and steps
- Wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses
Children & families
Minimum advised age is 2 years for this itinerary, because it includes domestic flights and boat transfers. Child rates commonly apply for ages 2 to 11 when sharing a room with two adults; exact child pricing and infant supplements are shown on booking and in your confirmation. Strollers are impractical at many sites due to steps and rough terrain; a lightweight folding stroller may be usable in hotel areas. High chairs and child seats are not guaranteed, please request them in advance and we will try to arrange them through our hotel and cruise partners.
The morning of
Meeting point & timing
- Where
- Cairo International Airport (CAI), Arrivals Hall Map
On the ground
Your route
– Responsible travel
How we travel here
Transport on this itinerary uses private air-conditioned sedans, minibuses and two short domestic flights, plus a three-night Nile cruise operated by a third-party cruise company. We contract locally owned hotels, Egyptologist guides and boat crews, which keeps income in the local economy and supports seasonal staff. Bottled water is supplied during touring days as stated in the inclusions; if you prefer a refillable bottle, bring one and we will point out acceptable refill options where available. We ask guests to avoid single-use plastics beyond what is necessary for health and safety. Our Egyptologists and partner hotels follow site rules designed to reduce wear on monuments, for example controlled circulation at fragile tombs and avoiding flash photography when required. If you have specific sustainability preferences, tell us when you book so we can try to accommodate them with our local suppliers.
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Licensed local Egyptologists
ETAA-credentialed, on payroll
-
Fair wages on the ground
Drivers + guides paid above market
-
Site preservation
We follow MoTA visitor caps and no-touch protocols
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Carbon-aware itineraries
Domestic flights only when train/road is impractical
· In summary
This 6-day tour includes two nights in Cairo, a domestic flight to Aswan, three nights on a Nile cruise arranged by Discovery Tours Egypt, and a domestic flight back to Cairo. It covers the Giza Pyramids, the Great Sphinx, the Grand Egyptian Museum, Aswan High Dam, Philae Temple, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut’s Temple, and the Colossi of Memnon.
Asked & answered
Frequent questions
-
01 What is the duration of the Cairo and Nile Cruise tour?
This tour package is six days in length, combining two nights in Cairo with a three-night Nile cruise. It includes domestic flights between Cairo, Aswan, and Luxor, ensuring efficient travel between regions. The itinerary is designed for a comprehensive experience of Egypt's key historical sites. -
02 What are the pick-up and transfer arrangements for this tour?
We arrange meet and assist services upon your arrival at Cairo Airport, followed by private, air-conditioned vehicle transfers throughout your tour. This includes all airport transfers, hotel transfers, and transport to sightseeing locations, ensuring a comfortable and seamless experience. Our drivers coordinate with your Egyptologist guide. -
03 What is included in the price of this 6-day tour?
The tour includes a private Egyptologist guide for all sightseeing, private transfers, two nights in a Cairo hotel with breakfast, and three nights aboard a Nile cruise with specified meals. Domestic flights between Cairo, Aswan, and Luxor, a Cairo Nile dinner cruise, and entrance fees to all listed attractions are also covered. Bottled water during touring days and all applicable taxes are included. -
04 What is not included in the Cairo and Nile Cruise tour package?
International flights to and from Egypt, visa fees, and travel insurance are not included. Personal expenses, optional activities, and gratuities for guides and drivers are also excluded, unless pre-booked. Meals not listed in the daily itinerary and optional accommodation upgrades are additional costs. -
05 What are the accessibility considerations for this tour?
This tour involves walking on uneven ancient terrain at sites like the Giza Pyramids and Valley of the Kings, and navigating stairs on the Nile cruise ship. While we strive to accommodate all guests, some sites may present challenges for those with limited mobility. Please discuss specific needs with us when booking. -
06 Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, this tour is suitable for families, offering a blend of historical sites and a relaxing Nile cruise. Children often enjoy the stories from our Egyptologists and the experience of sailing the Nile. We can adjust pacing and activities to suit younger travellers, making it an engaging educational holiday. -
07 What should I wear and bring for this tour?
We recommend light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen due to Egypt's climate. Modest dress is advisable for religious sites. Bring a reusable water bottle and any personal medications. Layered clothing is useful for cooler evenings or air-conditioned interiors. -
08 What is the photography policy at the sites visited?
Photography is generally permitted at most outdoor sites, though some tombs and museum exhibits may prohibit flash photography or require a separate ticket for cameras. Your Egyptologist guide will advise you on specific rules at each location. Drones are strictly prohibited without special permits. -
09 What is the best time of year to take this Cairo and Nile Cruise tour?
The best time to take this tour is from October to April, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing. Temperatures during the summer months, from May to September, can be very high, especially in Upper Egypt. We time key visits to avoid the busiest hours where possible. -
10 What is the experience like at the Grand Egyptian Museum on this tour?
Your visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum, near the Giza Plateau, includes a guided tour with your Egyptologist. You will explore its extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun. We aim to provide ample time to appreciate this significant cultural institution.
If plans change
Cancellation
- More than 30 days
- Full refund less a £50 admin fee
- 15–30 days
- 50% refund
- Within 14 days
- No refund – date changes considered case by case
Last updated 2 July 2026 Product ID: TOU-CAI-976743
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