9 Days / 8 Nights Egypt Adventure: Cairo, White Desert & Nile Cruise

Visit the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) to see Tutankhamun’s treasures and the colossal statue of Ramses II, then continue to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) to view the famous Royal Mummies and explore Egypt’s millennia-long history.

Itinerary

8:30 AM – Pickup from cairo 9:00AM – Pickup From Giza Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel by an Egyptologist guide and private vehicle. Drive to Giza to explore one of the most anticipated museum projects in the world.

9:30 AM – Explore the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) Step inside the Grand Egyptian Museum , the largest archaeological museum in the world dedicated to a single civilization.Highlights of your visit include: The complete collection of King Tutankhamun , including his famous golden mask, displayed together for the first time The colossal statue of Ramses II , Over 100,000 artifacts covering all eras of Ancient Egyptian history, Advanced interactive displays and architectural beauty overlooking the Giza Pyramids Enjoy 2–2.5 hours exploring this next-generation museum experience.

12:00 PM – Lunch at a Nearby Restaurant Relax at a quality local or international restaurant near the museum with pyramid views (optional, based on the program).

1:30 PM – Transfer to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) Head to Fustat, the ancient capital of Egypt, where the new NMEC is located
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2:00 PM – Visit the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) This modern museum tells the full story of Egyptian civilization — from prehistoric times through pharaonic, Greco-Roman, Islamic, and modern eras .Key highlights: The stunning Royal Mummies Hall, where you can view the preserved remains of great pharaohs like Ramses II, Seti I, and Hatshepsut
A dynamic layout showcasing art, daily life, and evolution of society in Egypt across millennia

4:00PM – Return to Hote After a day filled with history, kings, and culture, your guide will drop you back at your hotel

Tour the majestic Mohammed Ali Mosqueat the Citadel, explore historic churches and synagogues in Coptic Cairo, and witness the unique Garbage City with the remarkable Cave Church of St. Simon the Tanner.

Itinerary:.

8:30 AM – Pickup from Giza & 9:00AM – Pickup From cairo
Hotel Pickup & Transfer to the Citadel of Salah El-Din Begin your day with a pickup from your hotel by an expert guide. Your first stop is the iconic Citadel of Salah El-Din, one of Cairo’s most impressive Islamic landmarks.

9:30 AM – Visit the Mohammed Ali Mosque Explore the breathtaking Mohammed Ali Mosque, also known as the Alabaster Mosque, built in Ottoman style with stunning views over Cairo. Your guide will walk you through its fascinating architecture and the history behind its construction.

11:00 AM – Explore Old Cairo (Coptic Cairo) Head to Old Cairo, also known as Coptic Cairo, where you will visit some of Egypt’s oldest and most sacred Christian sites, including: The Hanging Church Saint Sergius and Bacchus Church (where the Holy Family stayed) Ben Ezra Synagogue You’ll walk through cobbled lanes and hear stories that trace back to Egypt's earliest religious history.

1:30 PM – Lunch at a Traditional Egyptian RestaurantEnjoy a delicious local meal at a hand-picked restaurant serving authentic Egyptian cuisine.

2:30 PM – Visit the Garbage City & the Cave ChurchDrive through Manshiyat Naser, known as The Garbage City, a hidden and unique part of Cairo where the Zabbaleen community recycles most of the city’s waste.You'll reach the awe-inspiring Cave Church of St. Simon the Tanner, carved right into the Mokattam Mountain. It’s the largest church in the Middle East and a powerful spiritual and cultural experience.

4:00 PM – Return to Hotel After a day filled with spiritual insights, hidden gems, and powerful stories, you'll be transferred back to your hotel.

Journey to Bahariya Oasis and explore the Black Desert, Crystal Mountain, Agabat Valley, and the Old & New White Desert. Camp overnight under the stars with a traditional Bedouin barbecue and enjoy local music and tea.

.Itinerary

07:00 AM – Transfer to Bahariya Oasis Depart early from Cairo by private vehicle, heading towards Bahariya, the gateway to the Western Desert.

12:00 PM – Arrive at Al-Bawaiti City & Lunch Enjoy a local meal in the main town of Bahariya Oasis before starting the adventure.

Black Desert (by Toyota Land Cruiser) Explore volcanic hills covered with black basalt, creating a dramatic contrast with the surrounding desert.

Bedouin Village El-Hez & Cool Spring Shower Visit a traditional Bedouin village and refresh yourself in the natural spring water.

Crystal Mountain (Cave Crystal Mountain) Discover a small natural wonder where the rocks glitter with quartz crystals.

Agabat Area (off-road, The Wonders Area) A breathtaking valley with surreal rock formations shining like diamonds. Perfect for off-road adventure and sandboarding.

Old White Desert Marvel at the unique limestone formations shaped like mushrooms, tents, and flowers. Enjoy panoramic desert views

New White Desert Admire formations resembling animals and objects, such as the Camel, Sphinx, and Chicken Mushroom.

Overnight Camping & Dinner Set up camp under the stars, enjoy a Bedouin-style barbecue dinner (grilled chicken, rice, salads).

Bedouin Party & Tea Experience local hospitality with traditional music, drumming, and Bedouin tea around the campfire.

Watch the spectacular sunrise over the White Desert, visit Oasis Lake, and return to Cairo. In the evening, board the sleeping train from Giza to Aswan (Train No. 82) for a comfortable overnight journey.

Itinerary:

06:00 AM – Sunrise Photos Wake up early to capture the magical sunrise over the surreal desert formations.

06:30 AM – Breakfast Enjoy a traditional Bedouin-style breakfast with tea/coffee in the desert camp.

09:00 AM – Visit Oasis Lake Stop by a peaceful lake in Bahariya Oasis, surrounded by palm trees – a refreshing contrast to the desert.

11:00 AM – Departure to Cairo Prepare for the return journey with short rest stops along the way.

04:00 PM – Arrival in Cairo End of the unforgettable White Desert overnight experience

At 9:00 pm take sleeping Train From Giza to Aswan Sleeping Train (Train No. 82) Departure: 9:00 PM from Giza Station. Arrival: Around 11:00 AM next day at Aswan. Type of Train: Sleeping / Sleeper train (1st and 2nd class compartments available) Facilities on Board: Private or shared sleeping cabins with bedding. Meals: Dinner served in the evening (optional breakfast in the morning). Air-conditioned carriages for comfort. Restrooms available in each carriage. Travel Duration: Approximately 14 hours
Notes:
Ideal for travelers who want to save daytime for sightseeing and rest during the journey. Tickets can be booked online or at the train station in advance Bring small personal items and snacks for convenience

Arrive in Aswan and check in to the Nile Cruise. Enjoy lunch onboard, an optional visit to the High Dam and Philae Temple, followed by a sunset felucca ride to the Nubian Village. Evening includes dinner, entertainment, and overnight onboard.

Itinerary:

Pickup from train station, Guests will be welcomed upon arrival in Aswan by the cruise staff and escorted to the Nile cruise. This provides a smooth start to the journey and allows guests to settle in comfortably before the first meal.

From 10:00 AM – Check-in on the cruise Guests can explore their cabins, familiarize themselves with the cruise facilities, and relax after their arrival. Staff will assist with luggage and provide an overview of the cruise schedule.

From 12:00 PM – Start lunch on the cruise A delicious lunch is served onboard while enjoying the scenic views of the Nile. Guests can relax on deck and take in the surrounding landscapes, river life, and gentle breeze.
Note: Meal times may vary from one cruise to another, so please check your specific booking for accurate schedules.

2 : 00 PM – Pick-up from cruise to visit Aswan High Dam and Philae Temple Visit the Aswan High Dam, a modern engineering marvel controlling the Nile floods and forming Lake Nasser. Then continue to Philae Temple, dedicated to Isis, famous for its beautiful island location, elegant colonnades, and detailed reliefs. This visit is optional for guests who prefer to stay onboard.
From 5:30 PM to 8:00pm – Visit the Nubian Village & Sunset Felucca Ride > The Nubian Village offers a colorful and authentic cultural experience with painted houses, friendly locals, and traditional markets. Sailing there by felucca at sunset provides a magical view of the Nile and the golden desert hills.

From 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM – Dinner time Guests enjoy a full-course dinner on the cruise while relaxing and socializing. The dining experience includes traditional Egyptian dishes along with international options, served in a comfortable onboard restaurant.
Note: Meal times may vary from one cruise to another, so please check your specific booking for accurate schedules.

From 9:00pm Nile cruse night Party After dinner, guests can enjoy onboard entertainment or a lively party, including music, dancing, and social activities, creating a fun and memorable evening on the Nile.

Overnight stay on the cruise Guests retire to their cabins for rest, enjoying the gentle motion of the Nile and the peaceful nighttime atmosphere onboard.

Optionally visit Abu Simbel Temples in the morning. Sail along the Nile to Kom Ombo, visit the unique double temple and Crocodile Museum, then continue to Edfu for dinner, evening entertainment, and overnight onboard.

Itinerary:

 4:00 AM – Tour to Abu Simbel   Guests who choose this optional excursion will depart early in the morning by air-conditioned vehicle for 4 hour drive through the desert to the Abu Simbel Temples. Built by Ramses II in the 13th century BC, the two temples are among Egypt’s most iconic monuments. The Great Temple is dedicated to Amun, Ra-Horakhty, Ptah, and Ramses II himself, while the Small Temple is dedicated to his beloved wife, Queen Nefertari. Visitors will admire the colossal statues, detailed carvings, and learn about the UNESCO project that relocated the temples to save them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser.

1:00 PM – Return to the cruise  After completing the visit, guests will travel back to Aswan and rejoin the cruise. Upon arrival, they can enjoy lunch onboard, relax, and prepare for the afternoon sailing towards Kom Ombo.Lunch.

 From 12:00 PM – Start lunch on the cruise  A delicious lunch is served onboard while enjoying the scenic views of the Nile. Guests can relax on deck and take in the surrounding landscapes, river life, and gentle breeze. 

Note: Meal times may vary from one cruise to another, so please check your specific booking for accurate schedules

2:00 PM – Cruise Sailing from Aswan to Kom Ombo  The cruise departs from Aswan and begins its journey along the Nile towards Kom Ombo. Guests can relax on the sun deck, enjoy the passing views of palm groves, villages, and the tranquil river, experiencing the timeless beauty of the Nile.

3:00 PM – Tea Time  Afternoon tea is served on board, often with light snacks or pastries. This is the perfect time to unwind, take photos of the scenic Nile, and enjoy the cool breeze while sailing.

5:30 PM – Visit Kom Ombo Temple (until 7:00 PM)   Upon arrival, guests will explore the Temple of Kom Ombo , a unique double temple dedicated to  Horus the Elder and Sobek, the crocodile god. The temple is perfectly symmetrical, with duplicate sanctuaries for each deity. Nearby, the Crocodile Museum displays mummified crocodiles and fascinating artifacts. The temple’s location directly on the Nile makes the visit especially atmospheric during sunset.

 7:30 PM – Cruise Sailing to Edfu  After the visit, the cruise sets sail again, heading north towards Edfu. Guests can enjoy dinner on board (time varies depending on the cruise) and later join evening entertainment or simply relax on deck as the boat sails under the stars.Dinner

From 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM – Dinner time  Guests enjoy a full-course dinner on the cruise while relaxing and socializing. The dining experience includes traditional Egyptian dishes along with international options, served in a comfortable onboard restaurant.

Note: Meal times may vary from one cruise to another, so please check your specific booking for accurate schedules.

From 9:00pm Nile cruse night Party  After dinner, guests can enjoy onboard entertainment or a lively party, including music, dancing, and social activities, creating a fun and memorable evening on the Nile.

Overnight stay on the cruise  Guests retire to their cabins for rest, enjoying the gentle motion of the Nile and the peaceful nighttime atmosphere onboard.

Tour Edfu Temple, enjoy breakfast onboard, and sail to Luxor with lunch and afternoon tea on deck. Explore the Nile’s scenic beauty during the journey and enjoy dinner and evening entertainment onboard upon arrival.

Itinerary:

From 5:00 AM – Visit Edfu Temple Begin your day early with a visit to Edfu Temple, dedicated to the falcon god Horus. It is one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt and offers a unique look at Ptolemaic architecture and mythology.

Return to the cruise After the temple tour, return to the cruise ship to relax and refresh.

From 5:30am to 7:00am Breakfast on board Enjoy a delicious breakfast on the cruise as you continue sailing.

Cruise sailing to Luxor The cruise will sail along the Nile towards Luxor, passing through scenic landscapes and offering beautiful views of the riverbanks and villages along the way.Lunch.

From 12:00 PM – Start lunch on the cruise A delicious lunch is served onboard while enjoying the scenic views of the Nile. Guests can relax on deck and take in the surrounding landscapes, river life, and gentle breeze.
Note: Meal times may vary from one cruise to another, so please check your specific booking for accurate schedules
3:00 PM – Tea Time Afternoon tea is served on board, often with light snacks or pastries. This is the perfect time to unwind, take photos of the scenic Nile, and enjoy the cool breeze while sailing.
At 5:00 PM – Arrive in Luxor The cruise will reach Luxor, the ancient city of Thebes and one of the world’s greatest open-air museums. As you arrive, you will see the magnificent temples and monuments along the Nile that make Luxor so unique.Dinner
From 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM – Dinner time Guests enjoy a full-course dinner on the cruise while relaxing and socializing. The dining experience includes traditional Egyptian dishes along with international options, served in a comfortable onboard restaurant.
Note: Meal times may vary from one cruise to another, so please check your specific booking for accurate schedules.

From 9:00pm Nile cruse night Party After dinner, guests can enjoy onboard entertainment or a lively party, including music, dancing, and social activities, creating a fun and memorable evening on the Nile.

Overnight stay on the cruise Guests retire to their cabins for rest, enjoying the gentle motion of the Nile and the peaceful nighttime atmosphere onboard.

Start early with a hot air balloon ride over Luxor, then enjoy a full-day guided tour including the Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut,Medinet Habu, Colossi of Memnon, and *Karnak & Luxor Temples . End the program with drop-off at your preferred location in Luxor.

Itinerary:

Pick-up between 4:00 – 5:00 AM (depending on cruise location) for the Hot Air Balloon Ride. This once-in-a-lifetime experience allows you to see Luxor from the sky. As the sun rises, you will enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Nile, the Valley of the Kings, the temples, and the villages, making it one of the most unforgettable highlights of Luxor. During the balloon trip, you will be provided with a breakfast box from the cruise.

between 8:00 AM – 8:30am Return to the cruise and proceed with check-out.

From 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM – Luxor Full Tour After check-out from the cruise, you will enjoy a guided tour in Luxor covering the highlights of the city:
Valley of the Kings – The royal burial site of the New Kingdom pharaohs.
Temple of Hatshepsut (Deir el-Bahari) – The stunning mortuary temple built into the cliffs. Medinet Habu Temple – The well-preserved temple of Ramses III. Colossi of Memnon– The two giant statues of Amenhotep III.
Karnak & Luxor Temples – The grand temples connected by the Avenue of Sphinxes.

End of the Program At the end of the tour, you will be dropped off at your preferred location in Luxor (airport, train station, or hotel)
Notes:

The Nile Cruise is 3 nights and 4 days, starting from Aswan.
Departure and arrival days:
Wednesday departure, arriving in Luxor on Saturday.
Monday departure, arriving in Luxor on Saturday
Friday departure, arriving in Luxor on Saturday.