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Egypt Express Tour

This 8 day tour covers Egypt's main highlights on a lower budget, from the Pyramids in Cairo to Philae Temple in Aswan and the amazing Pharaonic sites in Luxor as well as featuring a felucca cruise on the Nile.

Trip Highlights 5 featured moments
The great Pyramids & Sphinx
beautiful Philae temple by boat
Nile felucca cruise
Traditional Nubian Villages Pharaonic sites of Luxor's East and West Banks
Egyptian Koshary Lunch

Itinerary

This 8 day tour covers Egypt's main highlights on a lower budget, from the Pyramids in Cairo to Philae Temple in Aswan a...

DAY 1 Cairo Meet & Greet
DAY 2 Cairo Highlights & Depart...
DAY 3 Aswan Arrival & Cultural...
DAY 4 Felucca Sailing Adventure...
DAY 5 From Edfu to Luxor: Templ...
DAY 6 Luxor Highlights and Over...
DAY 7 Cairo at Your Own Pace
DAY 8 Farewell to Egypt
DAY 1

Cairo Meet & Greet

Day 1 Meals TBC
Begin your Egyptian adventure with a smooth arrival in Cairo. Our team will meet you at the airport for assistance with visas and luggage, followed by a comfortable transfer to your city hotel. Spend the rest of the day enjoying free time to unwind or explore the lively cafés and bustling streets of Egypt’s capital.

Activities

  • Cairo International Airport Arrival at Cairo International Airport with meet & assist for visa and luggage handling.
  • Cairo Airport to City Hotel Enjoy a comfortable transfer from Cairo International Airport to your city hotel. Sit back and take in your first glimpses of Egypt’s bustling capital as you travel through its lively streets.
  • Cairo Enjoy some leisure time in Cairo to relax, explore local cafés, or take in the city’s vibrant streets before continuing your journey.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Single Room Supplement
Extra day in Cairo pre-tour (3-star)
Cairo Meet & Greet
DAY 2

Cairo Highlights & Departure to Aswan

Day 2 Breakfast,Lunch
Spend the day uncovering the treasures of Cairo before beginning your journey south to Aswan. Explore the world-famous Egyptian Museum and stand in awe before the Great Pyramids and the mighty Sphinx of Giza. Savour an authentic Traditional Koshary Experience, then board the overnight train to Aswan, blending history, culture, and adventure into one unforgettable day.

Activities

  • Great Sphinx of Giza Marvel at the enigmatic Great Sphinx, guarding the plateau with its lion’s body and human face. This ancient monument is one of Egypt’s most enduring symbols, shrouded in mystery and legend.
  • Great Pyramids of Giza Stand in awe before the Great Pyramids of Giza, the last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World. Learn about its construction and the pharaohs who built these monumental tombs that have stood for over 4,000 years.
  • Traditional Koshary Experience Stop for a delicious serving of Egypt’s national dish, Koshary. This hearty blend of lentils, rice, pasta, chickpeas, and tangy tomato sauce offers an authentic taste of local life before continuing your journey toward the Red Sea resort.
  • Egyptian Museum Explore the world-renowned Egyptian Museum, home to one of the greatest collections of ancient artefacts including the treasures of Tutankhamun. Your early morning visit offers a fascinating glimpse into Egypt’s royal past.
  • Cairo → Aswan Board the overnight seater train to Aswan from Ramses Station in Cairo. Relax in your private cabin and enjoy the rhythmic journey along the Nile Valley as Egypt’s landscapes unfold by night.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Two way sleeper train upgrade
Cairo Highlights & Departure to Aswan
DAY 3

Aswan Arrival & Cultural Discovery

Day 3 Meals TBC
Arrive in the tranquil riverside city of Aswan, where the pace of life slows and the Nile shimmers in the desert sun. Visit the sacred Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, and admire its graceful setting on Agilkia Island. Round off your day with an unforgettable Nubian Village Experience, where colourful homes, friendly locals, and authentic hospitality reveal the heart of southern Egypt.

Activities

  • Aswan Arrive in the serene riverside city of Aswan, where the Nile flows wide and calm. This laid-back southern gateway to ancient Nubia welcomes you with warm sunshine, friendly locals, and stunning river views.
  • Philae Temple Sail across the Nile to the magnificent Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. This beautiful island sanctuary is one of Egypt’s most atmospheric sites, with intricate carvings and tranquil surroundings that tell stories of ancient devotion.
  • Nubian Village Experience Sail along the Nile on a relaxing trip to a traditional Nubian village where you’ll spend the night at a Nubian style guesthouse. Discover vibrant mud-brick homes painted in bold colours, meet friendly locals, and experience authentic Nubian hospitality that reflects centuries of culture along the river.
Aswan Arrival & Cultural Discovery
DAY 4

Felucca Sailing Adventure on the Nile

Day 4 Breakfast,Dinner
Set sail from Aswan and drift downstream on a traditional felucca, the graceful wooden sailboat of the Nile. Enjoy tranquil views of palm-lined riverbanks, golden dunes, and small villages as your crew navigates Egypt’s timeless waters. Spend the night on board under a blanket of stars, a peaceful and truly authentic experience that captures the magic of the Nile.

Activities

  • Aswan to Downstream Board a traditional felucca and drift downstream along the Nile, taking in serene views of palm-lined banks and timeless Nubian landscapes. This slow, graceful sail captures the essence of the Egyptian River experience.
  • Aswan Spend a peaceful night aboard a traditional felucca, drifting down the Nile beneath a canopy of stars. This authentic sailing experience offers a rare glimpse of Egypt’s timeless river life.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Abu Simbel overland
Felucca to Hotel upgrade
Felucca Sailing Adventure on the Nile
DAY 5

From Edfu to Luxor: Temples & Nile Journey

Day 5 Breakfast
Continue your voyage along the Nile with a morning sail on a traditional felucca, soaking in the calm river scenery. Step ashore to visit the magnificent Temple of Edfu, one of Egypt’s best-preserved sanctuaries dedicated to the falcon god Horus. Conclude the day as you journey onward to Luxor, a city rich with history and grandeur, marking the next chapter of your Egyptian adventure.

Activities

  • Aswan Disembark your traditional felucca in Aswan after a scenic journey along the Nile. Meet your road transport and prepare to continue north toward Edfu.
  • Aswan → Edfu Travel by road from Aswan to Edfu, passing rural villages and Nile-side farmland. This northbound drive leads to one of Egypt’s most impressive and best-preserved temples.
  • Temple of Edfu Explore the magnificent Temple of Horus in Edfu, one of Egypt’s best-preserved ancient temples. Dedicated to the falcon god Horus, its towering columns and hieroglyphs offer a vivid glimpse into Ptolemaic-era craftsmanship.
  • Edfu → Luxor Travel along the scenic Nile Valley as you journey from Edfu to Luxor. Enjoy views of fertile farmlands, small riverside villages, and glimpses of ancient temples that line this historic route.
  • Luxor Temple at Night Explore the magnificent Luxor Temple under the night sky, when its ancient columns and hieroglyphs are bathed in golden light. The illuminated complex creates a magical atmosphere that brings Egypt’s history vividly to life.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Hot air balloon in Luxor
From Edfu to Luxor: Temples & Nile Journey
DAY 6

Luxor Highlights and Overnight Train to Cairo

Day 6 Breakfast
Explore the iconic ancient wonders of Luxor, including the Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut, Karnak Temple, and other historic sites, before boarding a VIP seater overnight train from Luxor to Cairo. This collection combines Egypt’s most famous archaeological treasures with a comfortable journey back to the capital.

Activities

  • Valley of the Kings Explore the legendary Valley of the Kings, burial site of Egypt’s greatest pharaohs, including Tutankhamun. Step inside beautifully painted tombs that reveal stories of the afterlife and royal power.
  • Deir el-Medina Discover Deir el-Medina, the ancient village of artisans who built and decorated the royal tombs. Its beautifully preserved wall paintings and workers’ homes reveal the daily life of Egypt’s master craftsmen.
  • Temple of Hatshepsut Admire the stunning mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut, one of ancient Egypt’s most remarkable female rulers. Set beneath dramatic cliffs, its elegant terraces celebrate her reign and divine legacy.
  • Colossi of Memnon Marvel at the towering Colossi of Memnon, twin statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III that have watched over the Theban Necropolis for more than 3,000 years. A breathtaking photo stop amid Luxor’s open-air history.
  • Karnak Temple Wander through the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple complex, an enormous sanctuary dedicated to Amun-Ra. Its forest of columns, sacred lake, and intricate reliefs capture the grandeur of Egypt’s New Kingdom.
  • Luxor → Cairo This evening we re-join the overnight VIP seater train back to Cairo (there is another opportunity to upgrade to the sleeper train for those looking for more comfort).

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Hot air balloon in Luxor
Two way sleeper train upgrade
Karnak Temple tour
Luxor Highlights and Overnight Train to Cairo
DAY 7

Cairo at Your Own Pace

Day 7 Meals TBC
Arrive back in Cairo after your overnight train journey and enjoy a flexible day to shape your own Egyptian adventure. Explore the city’s spiritual heart in Coptic Cairo, wander the Citadel’s historic walls, or venture to Saqqara and Dashour to uncover Egypt’s earliest pyramids. Prefer to take it easy? Drift through Cairo’s bustling backstreets and bazaars, sip tea, or simply enjoy the city’s vibrant rhythm at your own pace.

Activities

  • Cairo Enjoy some leisure time in Cairo to relax, explore local cafés, or take in the city’s vibrant streets before continuing your journey.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Alexandria day trip
Cairo city tour
Wadi Rayan day trip (Valley of the Whales)
Saqqara, Dashour & Memphis
Cairo at Your Own Pace
DAY 8

Farewell to Egypt

Day 8 Breakfast
Enjoy your final moments in Cairo with some free time to relax or explore at your own pace. You might choose to browse local markets for souvenirs, revisit a favourite café, or simply soak up the city’s lively atmosphere one last time. Later, transfer from your Cairo hotel to the airport, marking the end of your Egyptian journey filled with timeless history, vibrant culture, and unforgettable memories.

Activities

  • Cairo Enjoy some leisure time in Cairo to relax, explore local cafés, or take in the city’s vibrant streets before continuing your journey.
  • Cairo Hotel to Airport Transfer from your Cairo hotel to the airport for your departing flight. Reflect on your unforgettable journey through Egypt as you bid farewell to this historic land.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Saqqara, Dashour & Memphis
Extra day in Cairo post-tour (3-star)
Farewell to Egypt

Included and Excluded

Included

  • 3 nights accommodation in 3-4-star hotels
  • 1 night in a Nubian style hotel in Aswan
  • 1 night on a felucca sailboat cruise with accompanying support boat with toilet & shower
  • 2 nights on the overnight seater train (sleeper train upgrade available)
  • All transport and transfers in AC vehicles
  • 24-hour airport arrival & departure transfer service
  • Services of a specialist Egyptologist tour guides for all sightseeing tours
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary

Excluded

  • International flights (available on request)
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance (compulsory, available on request)
  • Meals not indicated in the itinerary
  • Tipping kitty (allow US$45)
  • Entrance fees (budget approx. US$80)
  • Drinks, snacks, guide & driver tips and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
  • Hotel Gala Dinners (see Tour notes)
  • Tour Guide Tips
  • Any other items not mentioned above

Notes

Hotel Gala Dinners
Many of Egypt's hotels and Nile cruise boats arrange a very special gala dinner with entertainment in the evening on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve. Payment for these is often optional on Christmas Eve (24 Dec) but normally compulsory on New Year's Eve (31 Dec), whether you attend or not. Prices can range from around US$50 to over US$180 per person in 5-star hotels. Final decisions on prices and whether dinners are compulsory are made relatively close to the time. We aim to always select hotels that make their Gala Dinners optional, though this is not always possible, especially for New Year's Eve. Gala dinner prices are therefore not included in our prices above, but will be added to your booking if they become required. Please budget accordingly. More information is available on request.

Departure Dates

Guaranteed departures with confirmed dates. Book early to secure your preferred date.

Departure Date Return Date Availability From price Notes
22 Aug 2026 Sat 29 Aug 2026 Sat Available NZ$2,535 -
05 Sep 2026 Sat 12 Sep 2026 Sat Available NZ$2,535 -
19 Sep 2026 Sat 26 Sep 2026 Sat Available NZ$2,900 -
03 Oct 2026 Sat 10 Oct 2026 Sat Available NZ$2,900 -
17 Oct 2026 Sat 24 Oct 2026 Sat Available NZ$2,900 -
31 Oct 2026 Sat 07 Nov 2026 Sat Available NZ$2,900 -
14 Nov 2026 Sat 21 Nov 2026 Sat Available NZ$2,900 -
28 Nov 2026 Sat 05 Dec 2026 Sat Available NZ$2,900 -
12 Dec 2026 Sat 19 Dec 2026 Sat Available NZ$2,900 -
19 Dec 2026 Sat 26 Dec 2026 Sat Available NZ$3,020 -
26 Dec 2026 Sat 02 Jan 2027 Sat Available NZ$3,140 -
23 Jan 2027 Sat 30 Jan 2027 Sat Available NZ$2,900 -
06 Feb 2027 Sat 13 Feb 2027 Sat Available NZ$2,900 -
20 Feb 2027 Sat 27 Feb 2027 Sat Available NZ$2,900 -
06 Mar 2027 Sat 13 Mar 2027 Sat Available NZ$2,900 -
27 Mar 2027 Sat 03 Apr 2027 Sat Available NZ$3,020 -
03 Apr 2027 Sat 10 Apr 2027 Sat Available NZ$3,020 -
17 Apr 2027 Sat 24 Apr 2027 Sat Available NZ$2,900 -
01 May 2027 Sat 08 May 2027 Sat Available NZ$2,900 -
15 May 2027 Sat 22 May 2027 Sat Available NZ$2,900 -
29 May 2027 Sat 05 Jun 2027 Sat Available NZ$2,900 -
12 Jun 2027 Sat 19 Jun 2027 Sat Available NZ$2,900 -
26 Jun 2027 Sat 03 Jul 2027 Sat Available NZ$2,900 -
10 Jul 2027 Sat 17 Jul 2027 Sat Available NZ$2,900 -
07 Aug 2027 Sat 14 Aug 2027 Sat Available NZ$2,900 NZ$4,105 SAVE 29% -
21 Aug 2027 Sat 28 Aug 2027 Sat Available NZ$2,900 -
04 Sep 2027 Sat 11 Sep 2027 Sat Available NZ$2,900 -
18 Sep 2027 Sat 25 Sep 2027 Sat Available NZ$3,210 -
02 Oct 2027 Sat 09 Oct 2027 Sat Available NZ$3,210 -
16 Oct 2027 Sat 23 Oct 2027 Sat Available NZ$3,210 -
30 Oct 2027 Sat 06 Nov 2027 Sat Available NZ$3,210 -
13 Nov 2027 Sat 20 Nov 2027 Sat Available NZ$3,210 -
27 Nov 2027 Sat 04 Dec 2027 Sat Available NZ$3,210 -
11 Dec 2027 Sat 18 Dec 2027 Sat Available NZ$3,210 -
18 Dec 2027 Sat 25 Dec 2027 Sat Available NZ$3,380 -
27 Dec 2027 Mon 03 Jan 2028 Mon Available NZ$3,380 -
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Private Tours

Private Tailor-Made

Travel exclusively with your family or friends on a private tour tailored to your pace and preferences.

  • Flexible dates
  • Personalized experience
  • Premium comfort

Frequently Asked Questions

Why book the Egypt Express tour?
Egypt Express is our most accessible Egypt itinerary: 8 days, Cairo to Cairo, small group up to 18, and priced to make Egypt achievable without compromising on the key experiences. You'll cover the Pyramids, Sphinx, a Koshary lunch, an overnight seater train to Aswan, a Nubian guesthouse stay, a felucca sail on the Nile, and the temples of the Valley of the Kings on the return. It's Egypt's greatest hits with a no-nonsense, adventurous approach.
Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to Egypt?
Yes, and it's a great first step. Egypt Express covers the essential sites: Giza, Saqqara/Dashur/Memphis, Luxor, and Aswan, with the added texture of an overnight train journey and a Nubian village experience. If you've never been to Egypt and want an honest, no-frills-but-full-of-highlights trip, this is it.
What's the difference between this and your other Egypt tours?
Egypt Express (8 days) uses 3-4 star hotels and an overnight seater train, making it the most affordable Egypt option. Egyptian Legacy (8 days) covers a similar duration but uses 5-star hotels and a 5-star Nile cruise boat with internal flights. Discover Egypt (10 days) adds 2 days and includes the Red Sea at Hurghada. Egypt Express is for travellers who want Egypt's highlights on a realistic budget and with a spirit of adventure.
What's the best time of year for Egypt Express?
October to April is most comfortable. November to February is peak season. Summer is very hot in Upper Egypt but the sites are quieter. The overnight train runs year-round.
Why does this tour cost what it does?
We get it, you can find cheaper Egypt tours floating around. Egypt Express includes Egyptologist guides throughout, accommodation in 3-4 star hotels plus a Nubian guesthouse, the overnight train journey, a felucca sail, and a Koshary lunch. What it doesn't include is a premium Nile cruise boat or internal flights, which is what keeps it affordable. You're getting a genuine Egypt experience with honest, experienced guiding.
What's actually included in the price?
Included: all accommodation (3-4 star hotels in Cairo and Luxor, Nubian guesthouse in Aswan), all transport and transfers, two overnight seater trains (Cairo to Aswan and Luxor to Cairo), Egyptologist guides, meals as indicated (5 breakfasts, 1 Koshary lunch, 1 dinner), and a felucca sail. Entrance fees and tipping kitty are NOT included.
What's NOT included and how much extra should I budget?
Not included: international flights, entrance fees (payable locally at current rates), tipping kitty (a modest current amount briefed by your guide at the start of the tour), travel insurance, meals not listed in the itinerary, and personal expenses. Your guide will brief current tipping amounts at the start of the tour.
Can I pay in instalments?
Yes. Pay a deposit to secure your place, and the balance is due 8 weeks before departure. You can also hold a reservation without payment.
How physically demanding is Egypt Express?
This is a moderate tour with an adventurous edge. The overnight seater train is a long journey requiring patience and flexibility. The felucca involves stepping onto a traditional wooden sailboat. Sites involve walking over uneven stone and sand in heat. Nothing requires special fitness, but a relaxed attitude to less comfortable moments is part of what makes this tour fun.
What if I'm older than the rest of the group?
Egypt Express is well-suited to older adventurous travellers who don't need 5-star comfort at every stop. The overnight train and felucca are the rougher elements. If you'd prefer to upgrade these to sleeper train and a Nubian hotel, those options are available. Many travellers in their 50s and 60s love this tour.
What if I have mobility issues or a medical condition?
The overnight seater train has limited mobility facilities. The felucca requires stepping onto a low boat. Pharaonic sites involve uneven terrain with no wheelchair access. If you have significant mobility concerns, contact us before booking.
What's the overnight seater train like?
The Egypt Express trains are air-conditioned overnight seater services that cover the Cairo to Aswan and Luxor to Cairo routes. You travel in a reclining seat rather than a bunk. It's a genuine Egyptian travel experience, particularly popular with younger travellers. A sleeper train upgrade (to a private cabin with bunk beds) is available as an option if you prefer more comfort.
Is Egypt safe to visit right now?
Egypt is one of the most visited destinations in the Middle East and Africa, with a well-developed tourist infrastructure at the major sites. Check your government's current travel advice before booking.
Is Egypt safe for women travelling solo?
Many women travel Egypt on group tours without problems. Modest dress is respectful and reduces unwanted attention. Having an Egyptologist guide throughout means you always have local expertise and support.
What happens if I get sick on tour?
Cairo and Luxor have private hospitals. Your guide will assist with finding care and translating. Travel insurance with medical coverage is compulsory on all our tours.
Will I be hassled by vendors and touts?
Vendor activity around the Pyramids and major sites is normal. Your guide will help you manage it. A confident 'la shukran' (no thank you) in Arabic often works wonders.
What's the accommodation actually like?
3-4 star hotels in Cairo and Luxor, a Nubian-style guesthouse in Aswan, and one night on a felucca sailboat. The hotels are comfortable, air-conditioned, and en-suite. The Nubian guesthouse is basic but charming. The felucca is the adventure highlight: sleeping on the Nile on a traditional sailboat under the stars.
What's the Nubian guesthouse like?
The Nubian guesthouse in Aswan is a small, locally run property decorated in traditional Nubian style with bright colours and hand-painted interiors. Rooms are basic but clean with en-suite facilities. It's one of the most culturally immersive nights on the tour.
Will I have Wi-Fi?
The Cairo hotels have reliable Wi-Fi. The Nubian guesthouse and felucca will have limited or no connectivity. A local Egyptian SIM with data is inexpensive and widely available at Cairo Airport.
Can I upgrade the overnight train or felucca?
Yes. A sleeper train upgrade (private bunk cabin) is available instead of the seater train. A felucca-to-hotel upgrade in Aswan is also available for travellers who prefer a hotel bed.
What kind of food will we eat?
Egyptian street food is a highlight. A Koshary lunch is included on day 2 (Egypt's iconic dish of lentils, rice, pasta, chickpeas, and spiced tomato sauce). Expect ful medames, flatbreads, mezze, and grilled meats throughout. Local restaurants used by the group are generally excellent value.
Can you cater for vegetarian
vegan
Is it safe to drink the water in Egypt?
No, stick to bottled water. Hotels provide it. We recommend a Water-to-Go filter bottle to reduce single-use plastic on the trip.
Is the Egypt Express tour good for solo travellers?
Yes. The adventurous format and small group size make it particularly popular with solo travellers who want to share the experience with like-minded people.
Do I have to share a room?
The tour price is based on two sharing. Solo travellers can pay a single supplement for private rooms. Note that the felucca overnight has limited single accommodation options; discuss this when booking.
What's the group size and who else will be on the trip?
Minimum 2, maximum 18 travellers. Egypt Express attracts a younger and more adventurous demographic than our premium Egypt tours, but all ages are welcome.
Can I book Egypt Express as a private tour?
Yes. Contact us for a private tour quotation on your preferred dates.
Is the Egypt Express suitable for kids?
The overnight seater train and felucca are experiences children often love. The source doesn't specify a minimum age. Contact us if you're travelling with children.
Do I need a visa for Egypt?
Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Cairo Airport or purchase an e-Visa online before travel. Check current fees and requirements on the official Egyptian e-Visa portal.
What should I pack?
Lightweight, breathable clothing. Modest cover-ups for temples. Comfortable walking shoes. A warm layer for overnight train air conditioning. Sun hat and sunscreen. Toiletries as the Nubian guesthouse may have limited amenities. Egypt uses Type C and F plugs at 220V.
Are any vaccinations required for Egypt?
No vaccinations are required for entry. Hepatitis A and Typhoid are commonly recommended. Consult your GP or travel clinic before departure.
Do I need to book international flights through you?
No. International flights are not included. The tour starts and ends at Cairo International Airport (CAI).
What about tipping?
A tipping kitty is not included in the tour price. Your guide will brief you on the structure and current amounts at the start of the tour.
Can I do the hot air balloon over Luxor?
Yes. A hot air balloon flight at sunrise over Luxor is available as an optional add-on. Book in advance as slots are limited.
Can I add Abu Simbel?
Yes. A day trip to Abu Simbel from Aswan is available as an optional extra.
Can I upgrade the seater train to a sleeper?
"Yes. A sleeper train upgrade to a private bunk cabin is available for both the Cairo to Aswan and Luxor to Cairo overnight trains. Book this in advance.
Can I add Alexandria or a Saqqara/Memphis day trip?
Yes. Additional optional tours including an Alexandria day trip, a Saqqara/Dashur/Memphis archaeological day, a Karnak sound and light show, and a Cairo city tour are available to add on.
Can I combine Egypt Express with a Jordan trip?
Yes. Our Jordan and Egypt Express tour (13 days) combines both countries in one itinerary. If you're interested in extending the journey into Jordan and Petra, contact us for details.
How far ahead should I book?
Book at least 2 to 4 months ahead for peak season. A minimum of 6 to 8 weeks for other dates.
How does booking work?
Book online via the Dates and Prices section. Deposit secures your place. Balance due 8 weeks before departure.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, compulsory. Must cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation. We require your insurance details before you join the tour.
What's your cancellation policy?
A sliding scale applies based on how far in advance you cancel. Full terms in our booking conditions. We partner with Trust My Travel for financial protection.
What if my preferred dates are sold out?
Contact us about the waitlist, a private departure, or similar tours: Jordan and Egypt Express (13 days), Nubian Adventure (9 days), or Jordan Express (6 days).

Still have questions?

Contact our travel team.

Contact our team

Traveler Reviews

4.7
Excellent
Based on 1,738 reviews
5
80.9%
4
12.6%
3
3%
2
2.2%
1
1.3%
92% of travelers recommend this tour
M
Mypster
Egypt
Feb 01, 2026
We had such a fantastic vacation in Egypt! We couldn’t it have planned this ourselves - so many venues, all smoothly scheduled with all transfers arranged. There was always a guide to make sure things went well, and they did indeed make everything work. From the pyramids to Luxor and the new amazing Grand Egyptian Museum, we always had a knowledgeable local certified guide who added immensely to our understanding. The Nile cruise boat was excellent as well, comfortable and fun!
I had many questions prior to and after booking, and the company provided excellent communication and support. Highly recommend!!
a
ashleyblack1212
Egypt
Sep 01, 2025
My friend and I purchased the 'Egypt Express Tour' provided by Encounters Travel and I must say, it was one of the best experiences I have ever had in my life! We were assigned an agent from the company by the name of 'Mariska Knoesen'. She was very professional, proficient, and answered all of my questions and concerns, via e-mail, in a timely fashion. Upon our arrival in Egypt, we were greeted by a friendly team from Encounters Travel, who were all fluent in English. They assisted us with getting Egyptian visas and made exiting the airport easy. In total, it ended up being 9 of us grouped together. Our main tour guide was a gentleman by the name of 'Ashrafbehairy', whom we all referred to as "Ash" for short. HE WAS AMAZING!! We could not have asked for a better tour guide for our trip. He was very humble, kind, and knowledgeable. He accompanied us from Cairo to Aswan and then to Luxor and back to Cairo, via train. We visited several attractions such as the Pyramids, Philae Temple, Edfu Temple, and the Valley of the Kings (just to name a few). While at each sight, Ash explained its history to us and was able to answer all questions. He assisted with translation (Arabic and English) when needed, got us snacks, provided water, and took me to the shop to get items I desperately needed (sunblock and aloe lol). He even gave everyone a souvenir keychain at the end of our trip. Most importantly, we all felt SAFE! There is so much more I could say about this trip, but I will end by saying that it was honestly a great experience! I highly recommend purchasing this tour from Encounters Travel.
sm
sandra mooney
Egypt
Apr 30, 2025
From the time we landed in Cairo we were treated as VIP’s. Nadine our Tour leader kept on checking on us throughout the journey. We were fortunate to have Fayed and Hossam as the tour guides, they took their time to explain the sites throughout each excursion. Everyone made us feel safe and well looked after.
CV
Carol V
Egypt
May 01, 2024
Wonderful time with friends. The land of Egypt is hard to describe in a few words. The history is so immense I will need to come back again and again. The accommodations were above par and the people from Encounters Travel are very helpful. I would your with them again.
TB
Tiffy Barnett
Egypt
Mar 01, 2024
Encounters travel worked with me to devise a specific itinerary to meet my interests, and its agents and guides in Egypt delivered beautifully while I was in Egypt. I was with a group for most of the trip, but per my request, they set up individual excursions for me on two additional days. Their agents in Cairo and Egypt were particularly good. I had to go to a medical clinic in Luxor unexpectedly, and the Encounters liaison handled it so quickly and easily that it didn't effect my itinerary at all.

Accommodation

The hotels and accommodations listed below are the ones we most often use on this tour. From time to time we may exchange these for similar properties at the same level.

Options

Our tours are designed to include all that you need to enjoy a really special time in the country you're visiting. However, we do also offer some extra options to complement the tour and add some additional sightseeing or activities, or some extra time at either end of the tour.

All accommodation based options (e.g. Single supplements, extra nights, upgrades) should be booked and paid for in advance so that we can make the appropriate arrangements. Most other options can be booked and paid for in advance or while you are on the tour, though we recommend booking in advance to ensure there are no issues with availability.

Most options are priced the same throughout the year, though some may have seasonal pricing or minimum number requirements - our sales team will advise the final pricing based on your travel date and number of passengers on your booking.

Tour Notes

The detailed Tour Notes below provide important practical information about how the tour runs, what to expect, and how to prepare for your holiday.

1. Transport

Our trips feature a mix of different transport options. We want you to feel like you’re really experiencing the country you’re travelling through, but at the same time we want you to finish journeys refreshed enough to enjoy the next stage of the tour. In Egypt we do not use any public tourist buses or overnight coach journeys as we know that people don't sleep on board and end up very tired for the following few days. All the vehicles we use are air-conditioned, many are fitted with speed limiters, and all are inspected and checked daily. Some 4WD vehicles used on desert safaris may not always have air conditioning where they are only used for short periods.

For the overnight train journeys from Cairo to Aswan (approx. 12 hrs) and Luxor to Cairo (approx. 9 hrs) this tour uses the VIP overnight seater train. Seats onboard the train are large enough to be able to relax, however for those who prefer additional comfort, we also offer the sleeper train as an optional upgrade. The sleeper train has private twin berth cabins with large seats and fold-down beds with sheets, pillow & blanket. The lockable cabins also have a washbasin and storage cupboard, and an airline tray-style evening meal and breakfast is included.

2. Felucca Sailboat
3. Dates & Prices
4. Transfers
5. International Flights
6. Group Size/Tour Leaders/Guides
7. Entrance Fees
8. Tipping
9. Accommodation
10. What to take
11. Booking & Payment
12. Financial Security
13. Responsible Tourism
14. Follow Us Online
15. Travel Insurance
16. Before you travel
17. Reduce Plastic Waste with Water-to-Go Filter bottles
18. Private & Tailor-made Tours
19. Passports and Visas - Egypt
20. Money - Egypt
21. Voltage
22. Time
23. Health and Vaccinations

Travel Inspiration

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