17 Days in Egypt on a Long Nile Cruise
Embark on an unforgettable 17-day Egypt tour with Inside Egypt, where you'll enjoy a luxurious long Nile cruise filled with fascinating Nile cruise stops along the way to take in the ancient Egyptian temples and monuments. Your 17-day Egypt itinerary is meticulously curated to provide you with a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation, ensuring a memorable experience throughout your 17 days in Egypt. People ask "How much does it cost to cruise the Nile?" At Inside Egypt, we offer an amazing 17 day Egypt vacation at an affordable cost, with many exclusive visits included in the Nile cruise prices.
Starting in Cairo, you'll explore iconic sites like Saqqara, Dahshur, and the renowned Giza Plateau. Imagine exclusive access to the Great Pyramid of Khufu and close encounters with the Sphinx. Your Nile adventure kicks off with a sail from Cairo to Beni Suef, marking the beginning of your scenic Nile cruise.
CHILDREN POLICY:
0 - 01.99 Free
2 - 05.99 pay 25% of the tour price
6 - 11.99 pay 50% of the tour price
12 years and over pay the full price of the trip per adult person
Route
A AswanB LuxorC AlexandriaD Giza
DAY
1
Cairo Arrival - Start of Tour or Optional Pre-Tour: Old Cairo & National Museum of Egyptian Civilization for a full day of sightseeing in Cairo
Upon your arrival at Cairo International Airport, a representative from Inside Egypt welcomes you and assists with visa and airport formalities. You will then be transported to a luxurious 5-star cruise ship to embark on your remarkable expedition through Egypt's ancient past.
Optional Pre-Tour: Old Cairo & National Museum of Egyptian Civilization.
Accommodation: 5-star NiIe River Cruise Ship.
Meals: Dinner.
DAY
2
Saqqara & Dahshur
Following an introductory session with Inside Egypt representatives, you will explore the historic necropolis of Saqqara. Admire the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest pyramid in Egypt, erected 4,700 years ago by the legendary architect Imhotep. Your journey includes visits to the intricately adorned Tomb of Mereruka and the Pyramid of Teti, featuring one of the earliest pyramid texts ever uncovered. The exploration culminates with a visit to the Imhotep Museum. Following lunch, you will proceed to Dahshur, home of the Bent and Red Pyramids constructed for Pharaoh Snefru, which are among Egypt's oldest, largest, and impeccably preserved pyramids.
In the evening, join the optional tour available to the Pyramids Sound & Light Show.
Accommodation: 5-star NiIe River Cruise Ship.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY
3
Exclusive Giza Plateau Access, Unrestricted Admission of the Sphinx, Special Entry to the Great Pyramid of Khufu, tour of the Grand Egyptian Museum
In the morning you will have exclusive to the Giza Plateau, reserved solely for Inside Egypt guests, where you will witness this iconic ancient complex without the usual crowds. This privilege, usually extended to dignitaries and esteemed guests, offers you private entry to the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the sole surviving Wonder of the Ancient World. Accompanied by an Egyptology Expert, you delve into the Great Pyramid's interior, and learn about its history, construction, and mythology. Additionally, the Director of the Giza Pyramids unlocks two exclusive chambers – the Queen's Chamber and the Subterranean Chamber, typically closed to the public. Following this, you receive VIP entry to the Great Sphinx Enclosure, offering a close encounter with this renowned sculpture. In the afternoon, you will visit the Grand Egyptian Museum.
Join the optional Cairo by Night tour for city tours, a Cairo Tower visit, a local coffee experience, and dinner with a belly dance show.
Accommodation: 5-star NiIe River Cruise Ship.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY
4
Cruise from Cairo to Beni Suef - Beginning of a Long Nile Cruise
Drift along the Nile, enjoying panoramic views from the cruise ship's sundeck as you voyage from Cairo to Beni Suef. The river narrows considerably here, flanked by shallow waters and mountainous terrain on the east side, characterized by white sandy hills shifting with every passing mile. Before dinner, partake in the captain's cocktail party, mingling with the crew and savoring local and international cocktails.
Accommodation: 5-star NiIe River Cruise Ship.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY
5
Voyage from Beni Suef to Minya / Interactive Session
Journey onwards to Minya, which includes a Q&A session with your tour guide - Egyptology Expert, offering insights beyond typical guidebook information about ancient Egypt. Indulge in lunch and dinner onboard the cruise ship listening to the tunes of traditional folk music.
Accommodation: 5-star NiIe River Cruise Ship.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY
6
Tuna el-Gebel, Temple of Thoth, Beni Hasan
Commence your day with a visit to Tuna el-Gebel, an expansive site housing temples and tombs, including the catacombs of the god Thoth storing millions of animal mummies. Explore the tombs of Isadora and Petosiris with their intricate paintings. Subsequently, venture to the Temple of Thoth, an outdoor museum showcasing recently excavated ancient treasures. Proceed to Beni Hasan to marvel at the rock-cut tombs of Middle Kingdom nobles, providing a glimpse into the daily life, customs, and beliefs of ancient Egyptians.
Accommodation: 5-star NiIe River Cruise Ship.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY
7
Tell el-Amarna, Prince Tawdrous Monastery, Cruise from Minya to Asyut
Sail through Middle Egypt to Tell el-Amarna, where Pharaoh Akhenaten established a society focused on worshiping the sun god, Aten. Explore the nobles' tombs as one of the Nile cruise tour stops, featuring unparalleled wall reliefs. En route to Asyut, pause by the Prince Tawdrous Monastery while enjoying a lavish onboard dinner showcasing Egyptian culinary delights, culminating in an Egyptian Night costume party in traditional galabeyas.
Accommodation: 5-star NiIe River Cruise Ship.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY
8
Sail from Asyut to Sohag, Informative Session
Relax while sailing on the Nile toward Sohag today. Unwind on the sundeck amidst picturesque views of wildlife, lush fields, and quaint villages. Enjoy onboard amenities like the pool, spa, and gym. Engage in a stimulating Q&A session with your Egyptology Expert focusing on modern Egyptian society and culture.
Accommodation: 5-star NiIe River Cruise Ship.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY
9
Abydos Temple, Sail from Sohag to Nag Hammadi
Explore Abydos, the sacred city devoted to Osiris. Visit the Abydos Temple, renowned as Seti I's masterpiece. This temple symbolizes a return to tradition post the Akhenaten era. Sail to Nag Hammadi, admiring scenic beauty onboard.
Accommodation: 5-star NiIe River Cruise Ship.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY
10
Dendera Temple / Sail from Nag Hammadi to Luxor
Discover Dendera's intricate temple complex dedicated to Hathor. Witness vast columns and vibrant ceiling paintings. Then continue towards Luxor and enjoy the tranquil sceneries.
Accommodation: 5-star NiIe River Cruise Ship.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY
11
Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, Colossi of Memnon, Luxor Market
Early in the morning, there is an option for a hot-air balloon flight over Luxor.
Begin your Luxor exploration at the Valley of the Kings, famed for King Tut's tomb. We’ll visit three tombs. You have the option of seeing an additional tomb – the famous tomb of King Tutankhamun – for an additional small fee. Explore Hatshepsut Temple and marvel at the Colossi of Memnon.
After lunch join the optional tour and explore the Valley of the Queens, with the beautiful tomb of Nefertari.
After dinner, immerse yourself in the charm of Luxor Market, an atmospheric open-air souk waiting to be discovered.
Accommodation: 5-star NiIe River Cruise Ship.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY
12
Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Sail from Luxor to Edfu
Visit the grand Karnak Temple and majestic Luxor Temple in Luxor. Admire large obelisks and the magnificent hypostyle hall. Sail to Edfu, indulging in onboard facilities.
Accommodation: 5-star NiIe River Cruise Ship.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY
13
Edfu Temple, Sail from Edfu to Kom Ombo, Interactive Discussion, Kom Ombo Temple, Sail from Kom Ombo to Aswan
Explore the pristine Edfu Temple dedicated to the god Horus. Engage in an insightful discussion with your Egyptology Expert. Later, visit Kom Ombo Temple dedicated to Horus and Sobek. Conclude your day with a visit to the Crocodile Museum showcasing mummified crocodiles and ancient carvings.
Accommodation: 5-star NiIe River Cruise Ship.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY
14
Abu Simbel, High Dam, Nubian Village
Your day in Aswan begins with a visit to the remarkable Abu Simbel Temples, an iconic ancient Egyptian site dedicated to Ramses II and Nefertari.
Optional trip: Explore the mountain constructed to house the relocated Great Temple of Ramesses II.
On your way back to the cruise ship, you'll stop by the impressive Aswan High Dam, a 2-mile-long structure completed in 1968 at a cost of $1 billion, effectively managing the Nile's water flow.
Enjoy an optional Camel Trek experience to explore the stunning surroundings of Aswan in a unique way.
Following lunch, a motorboat ride will take you through the Nile's cataracts to a Nubian village, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Nubian people through home visits and interactions at the local school.
Accommodation: 5-star NiIe River Cruise Ship.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY
15
Unfinished Obelisk, Philae Temple & Flight to Cairo
On your second day in Aswan, your itinerary kicks off with a trip to the Unfinished Obelisk, a colossal ancient structure stranded in a quarry. This massive obelisk, measuring approximately 140 feet tall and weighing close to 1,200 tons, showcases the remarkable ancient Egyptian craftsmanship. Following this, you'll hop on a motorboat to reach the Temple of Philae, nestled elegantly on an island in the Nile River. Erected in 208 BC, this temple is a tribute to the revered goddess Isis.
Once you've explored these historical gems, your journey continues as you fly back to Cairo, concluding your Aswan adventures and heading toward the next chapter of your Egyptian exploration.
Accommodation: the 5-star hotel in Egypt, the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at the First Residence
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY
16
The Egyptian Museum and the Saladin Citadel & Alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali, Al Muizz Street, Khan el Khalili Bazaar
After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll explore the Egyptian Museum in Cairo to see the famous Tutankhamun exhibit, including the gold mask of the Boy King, among other stunning artifacts. Visit the Saladin Citadel & Alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali, Al Muizz Street, and Khan el Khalili Bazaar. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and conclude the tour with a farewell dinner at the hotel, reflecting on the highlights of the journey.
Accommodation: the 5-star hotel in Egypt, the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at the First Residence
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY
17
Departure - End of 17-day Egypt tour or Alexandria add-on for a full day of sightseeing in Alexandria
After breakfast, you are transferred to Cairo International Airport for your flight back home.
Optional Post Tour: Alexandria
Meals: Breakfast.
