A 12-day tour in Egypt offers the perfect balance between ancient wonders, vibrant culture, desert adventures, and Red Sea relaxation. Whether you’re fascinated by the mysteries of the pharaohs, seeking luxury and leisure by the sea, or craving an immersive cultural journey across oases, temples, and coastlines—Egypt delivers it all. In just under two weeks, travelers can explore iconic highlights like the Pyramids of Giza, Abu Simbel, Luxor’s Valley of the Kings, and the temples lining the Nile. But beyond the must-sees, there’s room for hidden treasures: snorkeling in Sharm El Sheikh, stargazing in the White Desert, or strolling through Alexandria’s coastal charm. Below, we’ve curated 11 unique 12-day Egypt itineraries tailored to different travel styles—from luxury seekers and history lovers to solo women and adventure enthusiasts—so you can find the one that best suits your dream escape.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| Day 1 |
Arrival in Egypt |
Cairo |
| Day 2 |
Giza Pyramids Tour – Fly to Aswan |
Aswan |
| Day 3 |
Abu Simbel Excursion |
Aswan |
| Day 4 |
Aswan Highlights & Nile Cruise Embarkation |
Nile Cruise |
| Day 5 |
Kom Ombo Temple Discovery |
Nile Cruise |
| Day 6 |
Edfu Temple – The House of Horus |
Nile Cruise |
| Day 7 |
Luxor East Bank Wonders |
Nile Cruise |
| Day 8 |
Luxor West Bank & Flight to Sharm |
Sharm El Sheikh |
| Day 9 |
Leisure in Sharm El Sheikh |
Sharm El Sheikh |
| Day 10 |
Sharm El Sheikh Leisure |
Sharm El Sheikh |
| Day 11 |
Return to Cairo + Royal Palaces Tour |
Cairo |
| Day 12 | Departure | — |
Experience the epitome of luxury with this 12-day journey across Egypt’s most iconic destinations and exclusive locations. Begin your adventure in Cairo, where you’ll be welcomed into the land of the Pharaohs before standing face-to-face with the majestic Giza Pyramids and Sphinx. From there, a short flight takes you to Aswan for an upscale excursion to the magnificent Abu Simbel—carved into stone in honor of Ramses II. Continue aboard a deluxe Nile Cruise, gliding past ancient river temples like Kom Ombo and Edfu, where the legends of Horus come alive. In Luxor, walk among the ruins of Karnak and Luxor Temple, and explore the tombs of pharaohs buried deep in the Valley of the Kings.
After your cultural deep dive, jet off to the shores of Sharm El Sheikh for a relaxing beachfront retreat. Spend your days at leisure, whether you choose to unwind on golden sands, dive into vibrant coral reefs, or indulge in spa treatments at your five-star resort. Return to Cairo for a final indulgent stroll through the Royal Palaces and elegant districts that once housed Egypt’s modern royalty. This itinerary is the perfect blend of history, heritage, and high-end hospitality.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| Day 1 |
Arrival + Dinner Cruise |
Cairo |
| Day 2 |
Giza Pyramids & Ancient Memphis |
Cairo |
| Day 3 |
Flight to Luxor – Valley of Queens & Kings |
Luxor |
| Day 4 | Sacred Temples of Abydos & Dendera | Luxor |
| Day 5 |
Journey to Sharm El Sheikh |
Sharm El Sheikh |
| Day 6 |
Free Day & Sunset Ascent of Mount Sinai |
Sharm El Sheikh |
| Day 7 |
Sunrise Summit & St. Catherine's Monastery |
Sharm El Sheikh |
| Day 8 |
Red Sea Adventure |
Sharm El Sheikh |
| Day 9 |
Desert Safari Thrills |
Sharm El Sheikh |
| Day 10 |
Return to Cairo – Cultural Treasures |
Cairo |
| Day 11 |
Wadi El Hitan Desert Adventure |
Cairo |
| Day 12 | Departure | — |
This immersive 12-day itinerary highlights Egypt’s most treasured UNESCO World Heritage Sites while blending spiritual adventure and archaeological splendor. Begin in Cairo with a magical dinner cruise on the Nile before visiting the legendary Pyramids of Giza and the ancient capital of Memphis. Next, fly to Luxor to uncover the royal tombs in the Valley of the Kings and Queens, followed by day trips to the sacred temples of Abydos and Dendera—some of Egypt’s oldest and most symbolically rich religious centers.
Your journey continues to Sharm El Sheikh, where the Red Sea meets divine serenity. Enjoy time at leisure before ascending Mount Sinai at sunset, tracing Moses’ biblical path, and watching the sunrise from the sacred peak. Visit St. Catherine's Monastery, one of the oldest functioning Christian monasteries in the world. Dive into coral-filled waters on a Red Sea adventure and explore the sweeping sands on a thrilling desert safari.
Returning to Cairo, you’ll explore the city's rich tapestry of heritage before embarking on a final expedition to Wadi El Hitan, the Valley of the Whales—an awe-inspiring fossil site hidden in the desert. Perfect for travelers seeking Egypt’s spiritual, natural, and historical treasures in a single elegant package.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| Day 1 |
Welcome to Cairo + Nile Dinner Cruise |
Cairo |
| Day 2 |
Pyramids of Giza + Flight to Aswan |
Aswan |
| Day 3 |
Abu Simbel – A Testament to Love & Legacy |
Aswan |
| Day 4 |
Aswan’s Gems & Scenic Train to Luxor |
Luxor |
| Day 5 |
Luxor's East Bank – Temples of Kings & Gods |
Luxor |
| Day 6 |
Luxor West Bank – Where Pharaohs Rest in Glory |
Luxor |
| Day 7 |
Journey to the Red Sea – Hello, Hurghada! |
Hurghada |
| Day 8 |
Hurghada Bliss – Free Beach Day |
Hurghada |
| Day 9 |
Red Sea Adventures – Free Water Sports Day |
Hurghada |
| Day 10 |
Return to Cairo – A Grand Finale |
Cairo |
| Day 11 |
Your Cairo, Your Way – Free Day Adventure |
Cairo |
| Day 12 |
Departure – Take Egypt With You |
— |
Designed with the solo female traveler in mind, this 12-day journey is inspired by the strength and elegance of Queen Nefertari. Your adventure begins in Cairo with a warm welcome and a scenic Nile dinner cruise. Step into history at the Great Pyramids before flying to Aswan, where ancient obelisks and serene temples await. A visit to the majestic Abu Simbel offers a moving tribute to love and power, standing as a UNESCO marvel in the desert.
From Aswan, board a scenic train ride to Luxor, the ancient city of gods and pharaohs. Wander through the temple-lined East Bank and explore the royal tombs of the West Bank. Your journey then transitions from desert sands to crystal-clear waters as you head to Hurghada on the Red Sea. Enjoy beachside serenity, thrilling water sports, and uninterrupted relaxation tailored for comfort and personal space.
Returning to Cairo, your final days offer freedom to explore at your own pace—whether it's shopping in Khan El Khalili, revisiting museums, or simply soaking in the spirit of the city. With a balance of structure and freedom, culture and leisure, this tour is a thoughtful, empowering retreat for the independent woman ready to experience Egypt on her terms.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| Day 1 |
Welcome to Cairo + Nile Dinner Cruise |
Cairo |
| Day 2 |
Pyramids of Giza, Saqqara & Memphis |
Cairo |
| Day 3 |
Fly to Aswan – Nile Cruise Embarkation |
Nile Cruise |
| Day 4 | Abu Simbel – Ramses II’s Mountain Masterpiece
|
Nile Cruise |
| Day 5 |
Kom Ombo & Edfu – Sailing to Luxor |
Nile Cruise |
| Day 6 |
Luxor’s Legends – Red Sea Escape |
Hurghada |
| Day 7 |
Red Sea Snorkeling Adventure |
Hurghada |
| Day 8 |
Desert Safari & Bedouin Night |
Hurghada |
| Day 9 |
Free Day – Relax or Explore |
Hurghada |
| Day 10 |
Ultimate Relaxation |
Hurghada |
| Day 11 |
Return to Cairo – Final Treasures |
Cairo |
| Day 12 | Departure | — |
This 12-day journey through Egypt combines world-famous archaeological marvels with serene Red Sea relaxation and immersive desert adventures. The tour begins in Cairo with a warm welcome and a scenic dinner cruise along the Nile. Dive deep into Egypt's ancient past with guided visits to the Great Pyramids of Giza, Saqqara, and Memphis. Then, fly south to Aswan to board a deluxe Nile cruise, sailing past sacred temples including Kom Ombo and Edfu.
A highlight of the journey awaits with an excursion to the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel Temples—monuments to Pharaoh Ramses II's enduring legacy. Disembark in Luxor and transfer to Hurghada, where the golden beaches and coral reefs of the Red Sea invite days of snorkeling, water sports, and sun-soaked leisure. Venture into the Eastern Desert for a thrilling safari and authentic Bedouin night under the stars. After five rejuvenating days, return to Cairo to soak in its final historic wonders before bidding Egypt farewell.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| Day 1 |
Arrival in Cairo – Welcome to Egypt! |
Cairo |
| Day 2 |
Pyramids & Egypt’s Legendary Treasures |
Cairo |
| Day 3 |
Fayoum & El Minya – Desert Oases |
El Minya |
| Day 4 | El Minya – Lost Capitals & Forgotten Tombs | El Minya |
| Day 5 |
Akhenaten's Lost Capital & Hidden Christian Treasures |
Abydos |
| Day 6 |
Abydos Temple & Dendera Temple Complex |
Luxor |
| Day 7 |
Nile Cruise Begins – Luxor's Temple Treasures |
Nile Cruise |
| Day 8 |
Secrets of the West Bank |
Nile Cruise |
| Day 9 |
Falcon Warriors & Crocodile Kings |
Nile Cruise |
| Day 10 |
Abu Simbel – Ramses' Eternal Legacy |
Aswan |
| Day 11 |
Aswan – Where Ancient & Modern Egypt Meet |
Cairo |
| Day 12 | Departure – Take Egypt in Your Heart | — |
This 12-day magical expedition invites travelers to step off the beaten path and uncover Egypt's deeply layered history—from prehistoric oases to grand temples of forgotten dynasties. Start in Cairo, exploring the pyramids and the capital’s treasures before heading south to the lush Fayoum and the archaeological marvels of El Minya, where lost capitals and painted tombs whisper ancient tales.
Journey onward to Abydos and Dendera, sacred sites tied to Osiris and Hathor, offering a unique glimpse into the spiritual world of ancient Egyptians. In Luxor, embark on a Nile cruise that traces the majestic river past grand temples, vivid tombs, and timeless landscapes. From Edfu to Kom Ombo and onward to the legendary temples of Abu Simbel, this itinerary immerses you in pharaonic grandeur. The journey concludes in Aswan and Cairo, providing a modern contrast to the ancient majesty you've witnessed—ensuring you leave Egypt with a heart full of wonder and a mind enriched by history.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| Day 1 |
Welcome to Cairo – Nile Dinner Cruise |
Cairo |
| Day 2 |
Pyramids, Mummies & Ancient Capitals |
Cairo |
| Day 3 |
Luxor – Temples by Day & Night |
Luxor |
| Day 4 | Luxor West Bank - Pharaohs' Secrets Revealed | Luxor |
| Day 5 |
Edfu + Kom Ombo + Transfer to Aswan |
Aswan |
| Day 6 |
Abu Simbel – Ramses' Masterpiece |
Aswan |
| Day 7 | Aswan's Engineering Wonders & Island Sanctuary | Cairo |
| Day 8 |
Cairo's Timeless Treasures |
Cairo |
| Day 9 |
Alexandria - Mediterranean Marvels |
Alexandria |
| Day 10 |
Fayoum Oasis Adventure & Starlit Camping |
Fayoum |
| Day 11 |
Whale Valley & Return to Cairo |
Cairo |
| Day 12 | Farewell, Egypt | — |
Embark on a fully immersive 12-day overland journey that captures the essence of Egypt from the bustling heart of Cairo to the tranquil shores of Alexandria and the rugged beauty of Fayoum. Begin with the iconic Pyramids of Giza and uncover secrets of the ancient world through visits to Memphis and Saqqara. Head south to Luxor, where temple complexes and royal tombs illuminate the glory of Egypt’s pharaohs.
Continue your adventure with visits to Edfu and Kom Ombo temples, then sail onward to Aswan—home to the High Dam and Philae Temple. Marvel at the grandeur of Abu Simbel before flying back to Cairo for more cultural discoveries. Head north to Alexandria, the Mediterranean’s historic gem, then wrap your journey with a desert camping experience in Fayoum, followed by a visit to the fossil-rich Wadi El Hitan (Whale Valley). This journey offers an in-depth, ground-level encounter with Egypt’s past and present, connecting diverse landscapes, cultures, and histories into one unforgettable adventure.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| Day 1 |
Welcome to Egypt! |
Cairo |
| Day 2 |
Pyramids, Grand Museum & Sharm El Sheikh |
Sharm |
| Day 3 |
Relax & Recharge in Sharm El Sheikh |
Sharm |
| Day 4 | Culture & Coastal Adventures | Sharm |
| Day 5 |
Free Day in Sharm El Sheikh |
Sharm |
| Day 6 |
Flight to Luxor + Temples & Nile Cruise |
Onboard |
| Day 7 |
West Bank Wonders & Nile Sail |
Onboard |
| Day 8 |
Temples of Edfu & Kom Ombo |
Onboard |
| Day 9 |
Abu Simbel – Ramesses' Masterpiece |
Aswan |
| Day 10 |
Aswan’s Treasures & Return to Cairo |
Cairo |
| Day 11 |
Cairo's Timeless Treasures |
Cairo |
| Day 12 | Departure with Egyptian Memories | — |
This 12-day adventure through Egypt perfectly blends cultural heritage with coastal relaxation. Begin in Cairo, where the majestic pyramids and Grand Egyptian Museum set the stage for your journey. Fly to Sharm El Sheikh for several days of rejuvenation, whether sunbathing on golden sands, diving into the Red Sea’s vibrant marine life, or exploring the surrounding deserts and Bedouin culture.
Then, fly to Luxor and embark on a scenic Nile cruise through Egypt’s most iconic temples. Witness the grandeur of Karnak, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, and the impressive temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo. Marvel at the legendary Abu Simbel before returning to Aswan and flying back to Cairo. Wrap up with a dive into Islamic and Coptic Cairo’s spiritual beauty and savor your final moments in this timeless land. This itinerary offers the perfect balance of history, leisure, and adventure—ideal for those seeking the best of all Egypt has to offer.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| Day 1 |
Arrival in Cairo + Pyramids Sound & Light Show |
Cairo |
| Day 2 |
Giza, Saqqara & Memphis – Ancient Wonders Unveiled |
Cairo |
| Day 3 |
Desert Adventure & Camping in Bahariya Oasis |
Bahariya |
| Day 4 | Sunrise & Return to Cairo | Cairo |
| Day 5 |
Fly to Aswan & Nile Cruise Embarkation |
Onboard |
| Day 6 |
Abu Simbel & Sail to Kom Omboi |
Onboard |
| Day 7 |
Kom Ombo & Edfu Temples – Sail to Luxor |
Onboard |
| Day 8 |
Luxor's Treasures → Red Sea Escape to Hurghada |
Hurghada |
| Day 9 |
Red Sea Snorkeling Adventure |
Hurghada |
| Day 10 |
Sahara Desert Safari & Bedouin Experience |
Hurghada |
| Day 11 |
Return to Cairo – Historic Grand Finale |
Cairo |
| Day 12 | Departure – Memories to Last a Lifetime | — |
This thrilling 12-day journey across Egypt is a beautiful blend of iconic landmarks, desert escapades, and Red Sea serenity. It begins in Cairo, where ancient wonders like the Pyramids of Giza, Saqqara, and Memphis welcome you to Egypt’s timeless legacy. Then, take a rugged detour to the Bahariya Oasis for desert camping under the stars and sunrise views over golden dunes.
After your desert escape, fly south to Aswan and begin your Nile Cruise adventure. Visit the majestic Abu Simbel, then sail through ancient temples at Kom Ombo and Edfu, arriving at Luxor’s incredible monuments. From there, transition to the coast for a relaxing and adventurous stay in Hurghada, where snorkeling, desert safaris, and coastal exploration await. Finally, return to Cairo to cap off the trip with a deep dive into its historical treasures, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Egypt’s many faces.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| Day 1 |
Welcome to Egypt – Sound & Light Show at the Pyramids |
Cairo |
| Day 2 |
Giza Pyramids, Saqqara & Memphis – A Journey Through Time |
Cairo |
| Day 3 |
Cairo’s Treasures & Flight to Sharm El Sheikh |
Sharm |
| Day 4 | Red Sea Snorkeling Adventure | Sharm |
| Day 5 |
Sinai Desert Safari Adventure |
Sharm |
| Day 6 |
Leisure Day in Sharm El Sheikh |
Sharm |
| Day 7 |
Mount Sinai Sunrise & St. Catherine Monastery |
Sharm |
| Day 8 |
Return to Cairo & Islamic Heritage Tour |
Cairo |
| Day 9 |
Alexandria – Where History Meets the Mediterranean |
Alexandria |
| Day 10 |
Alexandria's Spiritual & Royal Legacy |
Alexandria |
| Day 11 |
Cairo's Royal Palaces Tour |
Cairo |
| Day 12 | Departure | — |
This luxurious 12-day escape showcases Egypt's most iconic landmarks and lesser-known royal gems. Begin your journey in Cairo with a mesmerizing sound and light show at the Giza Pyramids, followed by in-depth exploration of Saqqara and Memphis. The adventure then shifts to the vibrant Red Sea coast, where Sharm El Sheikh offers snorkeling over vibrant coral reefs, desert safaris, and the spiritual experience of ascending Mount Sinai at sunrise and visiting the ancient St. Catherine Monastery.
Returning to Cairo, delve into Islamic architecture and heritage before heading north to the coastal charm of Alexandria. Discover historic catacombs, Roman fortresses, and the city’s religious sites. Your final full day takes you back to Cairo for a tour of its royal palaces and preserved aristocratic grandeur. This well-rounded journey combines history, spirituality, and luxury for a truly unforgettable Egyptian experience.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| Day 1 |
Welcome to Egypt & Pyramids Sound & Light Show |
Cairo |
| Day 2 |
Pyramids, Saqqara & Memphis Expedition |
Cairo |
| Day 3 |
Alexandria – Mediterranean Marvels |
Alexandria |
| Day 4 |
El Alamein – WWII Historical Journey |
Cairo |
| Day 5 |
Luxor – East Bank Wonders |
Luxor |
| Day 6 |
Luxor’s West Bank & Red Sea Escape |
Hurghada |
| Day 7 |
Red Sea Wreck Diving |
Hurghada |
| Day 8 |
Hurghada Desert Safari |
Hurghada |
| Day 9 |
Coral Reef Diving Paradise |
Hurghada |
| Day 10 |
Serene Hurghada Leisure Day |
Hurghada |
| Day 11 |
Return to Cairo – Cultural Immersion |
Cairo |
| Day 12 |
Farewell to Egypt |
— |
This 12-day Egypt itinerary offers a perfect balance of history, adventure, and coastal leisure. Start in Cairo with a stunning evening show at the pyramids, followed by an immersive day exploring Giza, Saqqara, and Memphis. Continue north to Alexandria, where Greco-Roman landmarks meet Mediterranean ambiance. From there, visit El Alamein to honor the World War II legacy before flying south to Luxor.
In Luxor, ancient history unfolds on both the East and West Banks, then you’ll head to Hurghada to relax by the Red Sea. Experience wreck diving, coral reef snorkeling, and a thrilling desert safari. After several days of coastal bliss, return to Cairo for a cultural finale before bidding Egypt farewell. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking both in-depth heritage and a luxurious beachside escape.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| Day 1 |
Welcome to Egypt |
Cairo |
| Day 2 |
Pyramids & Ancient Wonders |
Cairo |
| Day 3 |
Aswan Discovery |
Aswan |
| Day 4 | Abu Simbel Adventure | Aswan |
| Day 5 |
Luxor East Bank Wonders |
Luxor |
| Day 6 |
Luxor West Bank Treasures |
Luxor |
| Day 7 |
Sacred Temples of Dendera & Abydos |
Luxor |
| Day 8 |
Cairo's Historical Tapestry |
Cairo |
| Day 9 |
Alexandria - Mediterranean Marvels |
Alexandria |
| Day 10 |
White Desert Adventure |
Desert Camp |
| Day 11 |
Desert Sunrise & Return to Cairo |
Cairo |
| Day 12 | Departure Day | — |
This immersive 12-day journey is designed for travelers passionate about ancient civilizations and breathtaking landscapes. Begin in Cairo with its awe-inspiring pyramids and museums before flying south to explore the serene city of Aswan and the majestic temples of Abu Simbel. In Luxor, marvel at the grandeur of the Karnak and Luxor Temples and uncover secrets buried in the Valley of the Kings.
Continue deeper into Egypt’s spiritual past with a full-day tour of the sacred complexes of Dendera and Abydos, then fly back to Cairo to visit its historic neighborhoods and architectural treasures. Journey north to Alexandria for a taste of Mediterranean elegance, followed by a dramatic contrast: the surreal beauty of Egypt’s White Desert. This expedition concludes in Cairo, leaving you with a deep appreciation for Egypt’s timeless legacy, from temples to tombs, deserts to seas.
A 12-day journey through Egypt offers the perfect blend of ancient grandeur, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Whether you're tracing the footsteps of pharaohs in Luxor, sailing down the Nile past timeless temples, diving into the colorful depths of the Red Sea, or camping under the stars in the White Desert, each day reveals a new layer of Egypt’s rich story. These curated itineraries provide something for every kind of traveler—whether you're seeking luxury, adventure, cultural immersion, or peaceful relaxation.
From the bustling streets of Cairo to the tranquil sands of Sharm El Sheikh, from the mysteries of Abu Simbel to the coral reefs of Hurghada, Egypt invites you to connect with its legacy in your own unique way. With seamless logistics, expert guides, and customizable routes, your Egyptian dream trip is more achievable than ever. Pack your sense of wonder and prepare for an unforgettable journey across the land of the pharaohs.
Find out our latest news, promotions, and professional tips. Know before you book your next Egypt tours
Yes, Egypt is generally safe for tourists, especially in popular destinations like Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Sharm El Sheikh, and Hurghada. However, always follow local guidance and travel with reputable tour operators.
Yes, many of the 12-day itineraries feature Nile cruises between Luxor and Aswan, offering a relaxing and scenic way to explore key ancient sites.
Pack light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, swimwear, and a light jacket for desert evenings or cooler months.
Yes, tipping (known as baksheesh) is customary and appreciated, especially for drivers, guides, hotel staff, and restaurant servers.
Absolutely! All itineraries can be tailored to suit families with children, couples, honeymooners, or solo female travelers, with personalized activities and accommodations.
You can book directly through Your Egypt Tours, where our travel experts will help you customize your perfect 12-day journey.
Travel has helped us to understand the meaning of life and it has helped us become better people. Each time we travel, we see the world with new eyes.
Absolutely mind blowing. A definite must see. We flew from Aswan after I contact them, as I did not want to sit in car for hours with my 10-year-old daughter. Just so much history and ancient love. You cannot miss this one thing if you are in Cairo. The rocks are just HUGE, so special.
I recently traveled with my wife, daughter, son in law and two grandsons (ages 4 and 2). We had a private tour experience. From the moment we landed at the airport on our arrival to the day we left we were treated with the utmost care and attention
Our trip to was wonderful. The accommodations and travel was seamlessly arranged by customer service rep, Mona, and we visited so many of the famous Egyptian antiquities. I would not have done the trip without the very knowledgeable guides, Ashraf and Mamdouh
