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Egyptian Legacy Tour

This classic 8-day tour introduces you to the main sites of Egypt while spoiling you with 5-star hotels in Cairo and a 5-star Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan. You see the Pyramids, Sphinx, Grand Egyptian Museum.

Trip Highlights 6 featured moments
Iconic Pyramids & Sphinx of Giza
Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)
5-star cruise down the Nile visiting Karnak & Luxor temples
the Valley of the Kings
Queen Hatchepsut
Medinat Habu & Philae Temples and Felucca Sailboat experience

Itinerary

This classic 8-day tour introduces you to the main sites of Egypt while spoiling you with 5-star hotels in Cairo and a 5...

DAY 1 Cairo Meet & Greet
DAY 2 Pyramids, Sphinx & Ancien...
DAY 3 Luxor’s Temples by Day an...
DAY 4 Karnak Temple & Nile Crui...
DAY 5 Edfu to Aswan Nile Journe...
DAY 6 Aswan’s Temples and the N...
DAY 7 Egyptian Museum & Cairo H...
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 (5-star) - pre-tour
Cairo Meet & Greet
DAY 2

Pyramids, Sphinx & Ancient Memphis

Day 2 Breakfast
Start your day on the Giza Plateau, marvelling at the Great Pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx that has watched over them for millennia. Then travel south to Memphis, Egypt’s first capital, to admire the colossal statue of Ramses II before ending at Saqqara, home to the pioneering Step Pyramid of Djoser, a masterpiece that laid the foundations for all pyramids to come.

Activities

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Memphis Explore the ancient city of Memphis, once the capital of Old Kingdom Egypt. Visit the open-air museum to see the remarkable statue of Ramses II and other artefacts that showcase the grandeur of Egypt’s earliest dynasties.
  • Step Pyramid Discover Saqqara, home to Egypt’s first pyramid, the Step Pyramid of King Djoser. This ancient necropolis marks a major innovation in architecture and provides fascinating insight into the early evolution of Egypt’s royal tombs.
Pyramids, Sphinx & Ancient Memphis
DAY 3

Luxor’s Temples by Day and Night

Day 3 Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Fly from Cairo to Luxor, the heart of ancient Thebes, and begin your exploration on the city’s storied West Bank. Visit the towering Colossi of Memnon, the royal tombs of the Valley of the Kings, and the grand temples of Hatshepsut and Medinat Habu. As evening falls, experience the enchanting Luxor Temple illuminated under the night sky, a breathtaking finale to a day of timeless wonder.

Activities

  • Cairo → Luxor Take a short flight from Cairo to Luxor, journeying from Egypt’s modern capital to its ancient heart. Enjoy sweeping views of the desert and the Nile as you travel to the city of temples, tombs, and timeless history.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Medinat Habu Explore Medinat Habu, the magnificent mortuary temple of Ramses III. Its towering gateways, vivid wall carvings, and detailed reliefs offer an extraordinary glimpse into Egypt’s New Kingdom art and royal legacy.
  • 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.
Luxor’s Temples by Day and Night
DAY 4

Karnak Temple & Nile Cruise to Edfu

Day 4 Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Begin your day with the chance to see the sun rise over Luxor’s ancient West Bank from a hot air balloon before exploring the magnificent Karnak Temple Complex, a vast maze of towering pillars and sacred sanctuaries. Later, cruise along the Nile toward Edfu, watching Egypt’s timeless scenery drift by as you sail through Esna Lock on your 5-star riverboat.

Activities

  • 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 → Edfu Embark on a relaxing Nile cruise from Luxor to Edfu. Enjoy the serene pace of river travel as you pass ancient temples, lush palm groves, and small riverside villages that reflect the timeless beauty of Egypt’s heartland.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Hot air balloon in Luxor
Karnak Temple & Nile Cruise to Edfu
DAY 5

Edfu to Aswan Nile Journey

Day 5 Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Begin the day with a visit to the Temple of Edfu, one of Egypt’s best-preserved sanctuaries dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god. Cruise onward along the Nile to Kom Ombo to explore its twin temple honouring Sobek and Haroeris, complete with fascinating mummified crocodiles. As the sun sets, sail south toward Aswan, watching daily life unfold along the timeless riverbanks.

Activities

  • 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 → Kom Ombo Continue your journey downstream from Edfu to Kom Ombo. Take in sweeping Nile views and watch daily life unfold along the riverbanks as your cruise glides toward the next ancient wonder.
  • Kom Ombo Temple Explore the unique Kom Ombo Temple, dedicated to both Sobek the crocodile god and Horus the falcon-headed god. Its symmetrical design, fascinating carvings, and riverside setting make it one of the Nile’s most photogenic ancient sites.
  • Kom Ombo → Aswan Cruise south from Kom Ombo to Aswan, enjoying tranquil views of palm-lined shores and traditional feluccas sailing the Nile. This stretch of river offers some of the most scenic vistas in Upper Egypt.
Edfu to Aswan Nile Journey
DAY 6

Aswan’s Temples and the Nile

Day 6 Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Begin the day with an optional sunrise journey to the magnificent Abu Simbel, where colossal statues of Ramses II glow in the morning light. Later, relax aboard a traditional felucca as you drift along the Nile’s tranquil waters. In the afternoon, visit the graceful Philae Temple dedicated to Isis, and end with a tour of the mighty Aswan High Dam, a modern wonder that forever changed the flow of Egypt’s legendary river.

Activities

  • Aswan Step aboard a traditional felucca and experience the timeless charm of sailing on the Nile. Glide peacefully past palm-lined banks, islands, and riverside villages as the gentle wind fills the sails, a truly relaxing way to enjoy Aswan’s serene beauty.
  • 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.
  • Aswan High Dam Visit the mighty Aswan High Dam, one of Egypt’s most significant modern engineering achievements. Learn how this colossal structure tamed the Nile, created Lake Nasser, and transformed Egypt’s landscape while exploring its lasting cultural and environmental impact.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Abu Simbel overland
Aswan’s Temples and the Nile
DAY 7

Egyptian Museum & Cairo Heritage

Day 7 Breakfast
Fly back to Cairo and immerse yourself in Egypt’s ancient legacy at the world-renowned Egyptian Museum, home to an unmatched collection of artefacts and the treasures of Tutankhamun. Spend the afternoon discovering the city’s cultural heart, from the historic churches of Coptic Cairo to the grand Citadel and the lively maze of the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, where Cairo’s timeless charm comes alive.

Activities

  • Aswan → Cairo Take a short morning flight from Aswan to Cairo, returning to Egypt’s lively capital.
  • 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.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Khan-el-Khaliali bazaar walking tour
Egyptian Museum & Cairo Heritage
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

Alexandria day trip
Extra day in Cairo (5-star) - post-tour
Farewell to Egypt

Included and Excluded

Included

  • Domestic flights
  • 3 nights accommodation in 5-star hotels
  • 4-night 5-star Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan
  • Felucca sailboat experience in Aswan
  • All transport and transfers
  • 24-hour airport arrival & departure transfer service
  • Services of a local Egyptologist tour guide for all sightseeing tours
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary

Excluded

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Meals not indicated in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees (allow approx. US$163)
  • Tipping kitty (allow US$85)
  • Drinks, snacks and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
  • Tour guide tips
  • Hotel gala dinners (see Tour notes)
  • Any other items not mentioned above

Notes

Similar tours:
The following tours are also available to provide an in depth exploration of Cairo, ancient Egypt and the River Nile...

  • Discover Egypt - exchanges the luxury cruise for an overnight felucca sailboat trip outside of Aswan, and then heads to the Red Sea at Hurghada to make a 10-day tour
  • Gods of Egypt - changes the Nile Cruise section to a 3-night cruise from Aswan to Luxor, before heading to the Red Sea at Hurghada to make a 10-day tour
  • Nubian Adventure - uses the sleeper train instead of internal flights and exchanges the luxury cruise for an overnight felucca sailboat trip on the Nile outside Aswan

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 may be compulsory on New Year's Eve (31 Dec), whether you attend or not. Prices can range from around US$50 to over US$150 per person. 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. Gala dinner prices are therefore not included in our prices above, but will be added to your booking if they become required. 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$4,830 -
05 Sep 2026 Sat 12 Sep 2026 Sat Available NZ$4,830 -
19 Sep 2026 Sat 26 Sep 2026 Sat Available NZ$5,315 -
03 Oct 2026 Sat 10 Oct 2026 Sat Available NZ$5,315 -
17 Oct 2026 Sat 24 Oct 2026 Sat Available NZ$5,315 -
31 Oct 2026 Sat 07 Nov 2026 Sat Available NZ$5,315 -
14 Nov 2026 Sat 21 Nov 2026 Sat Available NZ$5,315 -
28 Nov 2026 Sat 05 Dec 2026 Sat Available NZ$5,315 -
12 Dec 2026 Sat 19 Dec 2026 Sat Available NZ$5,315 -
23 Jan 2027 Sat 30 Jan 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,315 -
06 Feb 2027 Sat 13 Feb 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,315 -
20 Feb 2027 Sat 27 Feb 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,315 -
06 Mar 2027 Sat 13 Mar 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,315 -
20 Mar 2027 Sat 27 Mar 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,315 -
27 Mar 2027 Sat 03 Apr 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,555 -
03 Apr 2027 Sat 10 Apr 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,555 -
17 Apr 2027 Sat 24 Apr 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,315 -
01 May 2027 Sat 08 May 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,315 -
15 May 2027 Sat 22 May 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,315 -
29 May 2027 Sat 05 Jun 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,315 -
12 Jun 2027 Sat 19 Jun 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,315 -
26 Jun 2027 Sat 03 Jul 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,315 -
10 Jul 2027 Sat 17 Jul 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,315 -
24 Jul 2027 Sat 31 Jul 2027 Sat Available NZ$7,730 -
21 Aug 2027 Sat 28 Aug 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,315 -
04 Sep 2027 Sat 11 Sep 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,315 -
18 Sep 2027 Sat 25 Sep 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,435 -
02 Oct 2027 Sat 09 Oct 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,435 -
16 Oct 2027 Sat 23 Oct 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,435 -
30 Oct 2027 Sat 06 Nov 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,435 -
13 Nov 2027 Sat 20 Nov 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,435 -
27 Nov 2027 Sat 04 Dec 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,435 -
11 Dec 2027 Sat 18 Dec 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,435 -
18 Dec 2027 Sat 25 Dec 2027 Sat Available NZ$5,675 -
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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 Egyptian Legacy tour?

Egyptian Legacy is our premium 8-day Egypt experience, running Cairo to Cairo on a small group of up to 18 travellers. You'll get the Pyramids and Sphinx at sunrise, the new Grand Egyptian Museum, a half-day in Saqqara and Memphis, then board a 5-star deluxe Nile cruise in Luxor for 4 nights sailing to Aswan. Along the way you'll visit Karnak and the Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae, with a felucca sail included. Internal flights are included. This is Egypt done properly, with 5-star hotels throughout and a 5-star Nile cruise. 

Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to Egypt?
Yes, and it's probably the best possible first visit to Egypt you can have. Egyptian Legacy covers every major ancient site you'll have heard of, pairs them with 5-star hotels and a 5-star Nile cruise, and handles all the logistics including internal flights. You don't need any prior knowledge of Egypt; your Egyptologist guides will bring every site to life.
What's the difference between this and your other Egypt tours?

Egyptian Legacy (8 days, 5-star throughout) is the premium version: 5-star hotels, a 5-star Nile cruise boat, and internal flights included. The Nubian Adventure (9 days) goes deeper into Nubia and has a more adventurous style with a felucca overnight. Discover Egypt (10 days) adds the Red Sea at Hurghada and uses a sleeper train. Egypt Express (8 days) is the budget-friendly equivalent using 3-4 star hotels and overnight seater trains. If you want the best Egypt experience without compromise, Egyptian Legacy is your tour.

What's the best time of year for the Egyptian Legacy tour?
October to April is the most comfortable time, with temperatures pleasant rather than fierce. November to February is peak season when the weather is genuinely enjoyable at the sites. March to May heats up quickly. Summer (June to September) is very hot in Upper Egypt, and while the sites are quieter, it takes stamina. Note that a compulsory gala dinner applies to some New Year's Eve departures.
Why does this tour cost what it does?
We get it, you can find cheaper Egypt tours floating around. Egyptian Legacy is built around 5-star hotels in Cairo and Luxor/Aswan, a 5-star deluxe Nile cruise boat, internal flights (Cairo to Luxor, Aswan back to Cairo), Egyptologist guides throughout, and a journey designed so you never feel rushed at the major sites. Cheaper tours often cut corners on accommodation, use slower trains instead of flights, and have larger groups. This is for people who want the definitive Egypt experience.
What's actually included in the price?
Included: all accommodation (5-star hotels plus 4 nights on a 5-star deluxe Nile cruise boat), all transport and transfers, internal flights (Cairo-Luxor and Aswan-Cairo), services of Egyptologist guides, meals as indicated (7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners), and a felucca sail. Entrance fees to sites visited are NOT included and are paid locally.
What's NOT included and how much extra should I budget?
Not included: international flights, entrance fees (a current total, payable locally), a tipping kitty (a modest current amount briefed by your guide at the start of the tour), travel insurance, meals not listed in the itinerary, drinks, and personal expenses. Your guide will brief current tipping amounts at the start of the tour. Budget accordingly for the entrance fees and tipping kitty on top of the tour price.
Can I pay in instalments?
Yes. Pay a deposit to secure your spot and the balance is due 8 weeks before departure. You can also hold a reservation without payment if you prefer to confirm travel plans first.
How physically demanding is the Egyptian Legacy tour?
This is a moderate tour. You'll be walking on sand and uneven ancient stone at the Pyramids, Saqqara, and Luxor's West Bank. The Valley of the Kings involves uphill paths and steep descents into tombs. The felucca is a relaxed sail. Heat is the main physical consideration, particularly in summer. Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are essential.
What if I'm older than the rest of the group?
Egyptian Legacy is well-suited to older travellers. The pace is measured and the 5-star accommodation means you're returning to comfort each evening. The main physical challenge is the heat and the walking at sites. If you can walk for 2 to 3 hours in warm weather, you'll cope fine. Many of our Egypt tour participants are in their 50s, 60s, and 70s.
What if I have mobility issues or a medical condition?
The sites involve uneven ground and some descents into tombs with low headroom. The Nile cruise boat has steps between decks. Wheelchair access at most pharaonic sites is extremely limited. If you have significant mobility issues, contact us and we can discuss which elements of the tour would be accessible and what adaptations may be possible on a private basis.
Is Egypt safe to visit right now?
Egypt welcomes millions of international tourists each year and the major sites on this tour, Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan, are well-established tourist corridors with a significant security presence. As always, check your government's current travel advice before booking and keep an eye on updates closer to departure.
Is Egypt safe for women travelling solo?
Egypt is visited by many solo female travellers. Like much of North Africa, women may receive some unsolicited attention in public spaces. Modest dress (covering shoulders, upper arms, and knees) is both respectful and practical. Travelling with a reputable tour operator with Egyptologist guides means you're never navigating the country alone.
What happens if I get sick on tour?
Cairo and Luxor both have private hospitals with international standards. Your guide will assist with finding medical care and translating. Travel insurance covering medical expenses and emergency evacuation is compulsory. Bring any prescription medication you need as specific brands may not be available.
Will I be hassled by vendors and touts?
Around the Pyramids and major sites, vendor activity can be persistent. This is a feature of the experience rather than a threat. Your Egyptologist guide will help you manage this and can advise on the most effective ways to politely decline. Inside the sites themselves, it's generally well-controlled.
What's the accommodation actually like?
Egyptian Legacy uses 5-star hotels throughout. In Cairo you'll be in a 5-star city hotel. The centrepiece of the tour is 4 nights aboard a 5-star deluxe Nile cruise boat, with well-appointed cabins, restaurant, sun deck, and pool. Accommodation is en-suite throughout with air conditioning. This is the top tier of Egypt accommodation.
What's the 5-star Nile cruise boat like?
The Nile cruise boat is a modern deluxe vessel with private en-suite cabins, most with Nile-view windows, a sun deck, swimming pool, restaurant, and bar. Meals onboard are served as buffets and include a good spread of Egyptian and international dishes. The boat moves between Luxor and Aswan over 4 nights, docking at Edfu and Kom Ombo to visit temples. It's a genuinely special way to see Upper Egypt.
Will I have Wi-Fi?
5-star hotels in Cairo have reliable Wi-Fi. The Nile cruise boat has Wi-Fi in public areas, though connectivity can vary on the river, particularly between towns. A local SIM card with data is a practical backup if you need consistent internet access.
Can I upgrade or add pre or post-tour nights?
As a 5-star tour, the accommodation standard is already premium. For pre or post-tour nights in Cairo, contact us and we can arrange additional nights at a 5-star Cairo hotel with airport transfers.
What kind of food will we eat?
Egyptian cuisine is delicious and varied. Expect ful medames (spiced broad beans), fresh flatbreads, grilled meats, mezze spreads, and classic street food like Koshary (lentils, rice, and pasta in spiced tomato sauce). On the Nile cruise, meals are served buffet-style with a good mix of Egyptian and international dishes. On a Cairo day you'll have the chance to try Koshary for lunch.
Can you cater for vegetarian
vegan
Is it safe to drink the water in Egypt?
Stick to bottled water throughout. Tap water is not safe to drink. Hotels will provide bottled water. We recommend a Water-to-Go filter bottle as a backup and to reduce single-use plastic use. The bottle's 3-in-1 filtration makes any non-saltwater source safe to drink.
Is the Egyptian Legacy tour good for solo travellers?
Yes. The small group format (maximum 18) makes it easy to meet fellow travellers. Solo travellers are a significant proportion of most Egypt tour departures. The Nile cruise in particular creates a natural community around shared meals and excursions.
Do I have to share a room?
The tour price is based on two people sharing a twin or double room. Solo travellers can pay a single supplement for private rooms and a private cabin on the Nile cruise. Contact us if you'd prefer to share to reduce costs and we'll try to pair you with another solo traveller.
What's the group size and who else will be on the trip?
Groups run with a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 18 travellers. Egypt tour groups typically attract a broad mix: first-time visitors to the country, history enthusiasts, couples, and solo travellers. The Egyptologist guiding style makes the sites engaging for everyone regardless of background.
Can I book the Egyptian Legacy as a private tour?
Yes. Egyptian Legacy can be run as a private departure on any date throughout the year. Contact us for a private tour quotation.
Is this tour suitable for kids?
The source doesn't specify a minimum age for Egyptian Legacy. The 5-star private tour format is generally better suited to adults and older teenagers. For families travelling with children, contact us to discuss options or consider a private departure where the itinerary can be adjusted.
Do I need a visa for Egypt?
Most nationalities including UK, US, EU, Canadian, Australian, and New Zealand passport holders can obtain a visa on arrival at Cairo International Airport or purchase an e-Visa online before travel. Check current fees on the Egyptian e-Visa portal before you go, as costs can change. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date.
What should I pack?
Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential. Cover shoulders, upper arms, and knees for temple visits and mosques. A light scarf is useful. Sun hat and high-factor sunscreen are non-negotiable. Comfortable walking shoes for uneven terrain. A small daypack for site visits. Egypt uses Type C and F plugs at 220V.
Are any vaccinations required for Egypt?
No vaccinations are required for entry into Egypt from most countries. However, Hepatitis A and Typhoid are commonly recommended. Consult your GP or a travel clinic for personalised advice before travel.
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). You can arrange your own flights or ask us for suggestions. Internal flights (Cairo-Luxor and Aswan-Cairo) are included in the tour price.
What about tipping?
A tipping kitty is not included in this tour's price. Your guide will brief you on the expected tipping structure and amounts at the start of the tour. The kitty covers gratuities for your guide, driver, and Nile cruise boat crew. Your guide will advise current amounts at the start of the tour.
Can I do the hot air balloon over Luxor?
Yes. A hot air balloon flight over the Luxor monuments at sunrise is one of the most spectacular experiences in Egypt. It's available as an optional extra. Book in advance to secure your spot.
Can I add Abu Simbel?
Yes. A day trip to the colossal temples of Abu Simbel is available as an optional extra from Aswan. This is one of Egypt's most dramatic ancient sites and well worth the add-on if you have the time.
Can I do a Khan el-Khalili tour?
Yes. A guided walk through Cairo's famous Khan el-Khalili bazaar, one of the oldest markets in the Islamic world, is available as an optional extra. It's a great way to spend a Cairo afternoon.
How far ahead should I book the Egyptian Legacy?
Egypt is popular year-round. Winter departures (October to February) book up several months in advance. We'd recommend booking at least 3 to 6 months ahead for peak season and at least 6 to 8 weeks before departure for other dates.
How does booking work?
Book online via the Dates and Prices tab. Pay a deposit to secure your place or hold a reservation. Balance due 8 weeks before departure. You'll receive a confirmation email with details of next steps.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, compulsory on all our tours. Your policy must cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation. World Nomads is one option we recommend. We must have your insurance details before you join the tour.
What's your cancellation policy?
A sliding scale applies based on how close to departure you cancel. Full terms are in our booking conditions. As a UK-registered company, we partner with Trust My Travel for financial protection of your funds.
What if my preferred dates are sold out?
Contact us about the waitlist, a private departure on alternative dates, or related tours such as the Nubian Adventure (9 days), Discover Egypt (10 days), or Egypt Express (8 days).

Still have questions?

Contact our travel team.

Contact our team

Traveler Reviews

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Excellent
Based on 1,738 reviews
5
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92% of travelers recommend this tour
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Egypt
May 01, 2019
Just spent the last 8 days on the Egyptian Legacy tour, Encounters Travel reps were the best, we had someone with us every step of the way! Every detail was organized and selected for you. The knowledge of the tour guides Muhamood and Hussam were exceptional. I definitely recommend and will share experience with others.
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.

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 safari options may not always have air conditioning where they are only used for short periods.

This tour also avoids any overnight train journeys, featuring domestic flights with Egypt Air between Cairo-Luxor and Aswan-Cairo.  

Nile cruise boat itineraries are subject to alterations depending on local conditions at the time of travel. Some sailing may be done after dark. Boats may moor up alongside each other at night, requiring you to cross through other boats to reach the shore. On Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve the cruise boats normally run a special Gala Dinner. The cost of this is normally compulsory, whether you attend or not, and is not included in our group tour prices, and will be added to to bookings when we get the final prices from the cruise boats (budget around USD100 to USD180 per person. 

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

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