The Nile
10 days, 9 nights
Cairo to the Red Sea by way of the Nile — temples, a cruise, and a sunrise balloon over Luxor.
This is the long version — the length of the country in ten days, Cairo to the Red Sea, for travellers who'd rather go deep once than come back three times. You start with the Pyramids and the Grand Egyptian Museum, then fly south to Aswan for Philae and Abu Simbel. Three nights aboard a dahabiya carry you down the Nile the slow way, stopping at temples the big cruise boats pass. Luxor follows: Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, and a balloon at sunrise over the west bank.
It ends on the Red Sea at Hurghada — a few days of nothing at all after two weeks of everything. Small group, private guide, every flight and transfer handled.
At a
Glance
Table of Contents
Map
Day 1
Welcome to Cairo
A short walk off the plane, before you reach customs, someone is holding a Travel With Amen Ra sign. They take care of the visa queue and walk you out to your car. You're staying at the Steigenberger El Tahrir, minutes from the Egyptian Museum. Your driver and your Egyptologist guide are with you for the whole ten days. If the afternoon is still yours, we'll put you on a felucca for the sunset.
Airport Transportation Service
Private airport transfers, both ways — a driver meets your flight and takes you straight to your hotel, and back to the airport when it's time to fly home. No taxis, no haggling.
Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir Cairo
3-day stayStandard Room
2 Kasr Al Nile, Ismailia, Qasr El Nil, Cairo Governorate 4272102, Egypt
Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir in Cairo offers a comfortable stay with clean, well-maintained rooms and attentive service. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, which features warm water, making it a hit with families. The hotel’s location is convenient for exploring nearby attractions, and the buffet dining options cater to a variety of tastes, ensuring a pleasant experience for all visitors.
Sunset Felucca Ride on the Nile
A felucca is one of the small lateen-sailed boats that have worked the Nile for centuries — no engine, just canvas and the current. You go out from Cairo as the light drops and the city noise falls away behind you. It's a nice way to unwind after all the travel, and the best first look at Egypt there is.
Day 2
Pyramids & Grand Egyptian Museum
Start the day with a private sedan ride through the busy streets of Cairo. Then, visit the Pyramids of Giza, where you can explore the ancient tombs and see the Great Sphinx up close. Finish at the Grand Egyptian Museum, home to an extensive collection of artifacts, including treasures from King Tutankhamun, and enjoy interactive exhibits that bring ancient Egypt to life.
Cairo Private Sedan
A private car and driver at your disposal for the day — comfortable, air-conditioned, and on your schedule as you move between the day's sites.
Pyramids of Giza
Giza, El Omraniya, Giza Governorate, Egypt
Giza is home to the famous Great Pyramids and the Sphinx, which are some of the most recognized structures in the world. Visitors can explore the ancient tombs and learn about the history of the Pharaohs through guided tours. The site also offers camel rides for a unique perspective of the pyramids against the desert backdrop, making for a memorable experience in one of Egypt's most significant archaeological locations.
Grand Egyptian Museum
X4VF+V38, Cairo - Alexandria Desert Rd, Kafr Nassar, Al Haram, Giza Governorate 3513203, Egypt
The Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza Governorate showcases an extensive collection of artifacts from ancient Egypt, including treasures from King Tutankhamun. Visitors can explore well-organized galleries that make it easy to navigate through thousands of years of history. Don't miss the interactive workshops and fun games available, which add an engaging element to your visit and enhance your understanding of ancient culture.
Day 3
Exploring Cairo's Historic Heart
Start the day in Old Town Cairo at El Hussein Bazaar, a busy market filled with narrow streets and ancient buildings. Browse through an array of Egyptian souvenirs, antiques, and crafts while negotiating prices with local vendors. In the afternoon, visit the Salah El Din Citadel, where you can explore its expansive grounds and museums, including the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, which offers great views of the city and a glimpse into Egypt's history.
Ancient Bazaars
4 Haret Khan Al Khalili, El-Gamaleya, El Gamaliya, Cairo Governorate 4331303, Egypt
El Hussein Bazaar is a lively market located in the heart of Cairo, filled with narrow streets and ancient architecture. Visitors can browse through a wide range of Egyptian souvenirs, antiques, and local crafts, while enjoying the atmosphere created by horse-drawn carts and busy shops. Bargaining is common here, so be prepared to negotiate prices for unique items and gifts.
Salah El Din Citadel
Salah al-Din, al-Ayyubi, Saladin, Cairo Governorate 4252360, Egypt
Salah El Din Citadel in Cairo Governorate offers a deep dive into Egypt's history with its expansive grounds and several museums. The highlight is the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, known for its impressive architecture and panoramic views of the city. With an entry fee of around 450-550 EGP, visitors can easily spend half a day exploring the site and taking in the rich heritage that surrounds them.
Day 4
Depart to Aswan
A morning flight south to Aswan — an hour and a bit, and the country changes underneath you: the desert opens out, then the Nile narrows into a hard green line through it. Aswan is the gentlest city in Egypt: the river is wide and island-scattered, the pace drops, and the Nubian influence shows in the colour of everything. In the afternoon, a short boat out to Philae — the temple of Isis, which stood on an island that the old Aswan dam left half-drowned for most of the year. In the 1970s it was cut into forty thousand blocks and rebuilt on higher ground, stone for stone. You can still see the waterline on the columns. Tonight at the Pyramisa Island Hotel, on its own island mid-river. Early start tomorrow for Abu Simbel.
Flight to Aswan
CAI
ASW
The flight to Aswan takes you directly to one of Egypt's key cities along the Nile. Aswan is known for its ancient temples, including the nearby Philae Temple dedicated to the goddess Isis. Upon arrival, you can explore the lively local markets or take a felucca ride on the Nile to see the city from the water.
Airport Transportation Service
Philae Temple
Philae, Aswan 1, Aswan Governorate, Egypt
Visit Philae Temple, located on an island in the reservoir between the old and new dams in Aswan Governorate. Explore the well-preserved structures and intricate carvings that tell stories of ancient Egyptian deities. Don't miss the graffiti left by Napoleon's soldiers, adding a unique layer to the site's history, and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding waters and natural landscape.
Pyramisa Island Hotel Aswan
3VHH+GW, Sheyakhah Oula, Aswan, Aswan Governorate 1231010, Egypt
Day 5
Abu Simbel & Boarding the Dahabiya
A pre-dawn start. Abu Simbel is about four hours south of Aswan, most of it empty desert — breakfast before you leave, snacks for the road. It's the site everyone has seen a photograph of and nobody is quite ready for: four seated colossi of Ramses II cut straight into the mountainside, with Nefertari's temple beside it, both looking out over Lake Nasser. In the 1960s the whole complex was sawn into blocks and lifted sixty metres up the cliff, out of the water rising behind the High Dam. You can still find the seams if you know where to look. Late lunch on the drive back, and you're in Aswan by late afternoon to board the Iris — your home for the next three nights. She sails that evening, dinner is served on deck, and you wake up on the river.
Iris Dahabiya
3-day stayThe Iris is a dahabiya — a small, traditional two-masted sailing boat with a handful of cabins, not a floating hotel with hundreds. It moves at the pace of the wind and the current, moors at islands and sandbanks the big cruisers can't reach, and the whole boat is yours and a few others'. Meals on deck, the riverbank going past, and no engine noise most of the day.
Abu Simbel Temples
Abu Simbel, Aswan Governorate 1211501, Egypt
The Abu Simbel Temples, located in the Aswan Governorate, feature colossal statues of Ramses II carved into the mountainside. Visitors can explore the grand interiors and admire intricate hieroglyphics that tell stories of ancient Egypt. After touring the temples, take a break at the nearby café to relax and reflect on the impressive scale of this historical site, which has garnered a high rating from travelers for its significance and beauty.
Day 6
Kom Ombo & Gabel El Silsila
Breakfast is served on deck as the boat sails north to Kom Ombo. The temple there is the odd one out in Egypt — a double temple, mirrored down the middle: one half for Sobek, the crocodile god, the other for Haroeris. Two entrances, two sanctuaries, nothing shared between them. Back aboard for lunch, and the afternoon is just the river. You pass Gebel el-Silsila, where the sandstone for half the temples you've already stood in was quarried; the cliffs still carry the cut marks. The boat anchors near Besaw Island for the night, and dinner is served on deck.
Kom Ombo Temple
A temple unlike any other on the Nile — perfectly symmetrical, and doubled: one half dedicated to Sobek the crocodile god, the other to Haroeris the falcon-headed Horus, two priesthoods sharing one building. It sits right on the riverbank, so you step off the boat almost into it. The adjoining museum holds mummified crocodiles pulled from the sacred pools.
Day 7
Edfu & Sailing to Luxor
Edfu this morning — the temple of Horus, and the most completely preserved in Egypt: the roof is still on, the walls are unbroken, and the carved inscriptions covering them are one of the fullest accounts we have of how these temples were actually used. Back aboard, the dahabiya sails the last stretch north to Luxor through the afternoon. This is your third and final night on the boat, moored at Luxor, and the best of the sailing — the river widens, the west-bank cliffs come into view, and there's nothing to do but watch it go by.
Edfu
Edfu, Adfo, Edfu, Aswan Governorate, Egypt
Edfu is home to the Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Egypt. Visitors can explore its massive stone walls and intricate hieroglyphics, which detail the mythology of Horus and the ancient Egyptian pantheon. The temple complex also features impressive pylons and a sacred lake, providing a glimpse into the religious practices and architectural achievements of the time.
Day 8
Luxor — Balloon, West Bank & Karnak
A pre-dawn pickup from the boat: you lift off over the west bank as the sun comes up, the Valley of the Kings below you and the green strip of farmland along the river. Back on the ground for breakfast, and you say goodbye to the dahabiya — tonight you're ashore at the Steigenberger Achti. Then the west bank properly. The Valley of the Kings, where the tombs run deep into the rock with their painted ceilings still bright; the Valley of the Queens; and Hatshepsut's temple rising in terraces against the cliff. Karnak in the late afternoon — successive pharaohs added to it for two thousand years, and the hypostyle hall alone runs to a hundred and thirty-four columns.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
A hot air balloon ride over Luxor offers a unique view of the Valley of the Kings and the surrounding landscape. As you float in the early morning sky, you'll see ancient temples and the Nile River stretching below. This experience typically lasts about an hour, providing an opportunity to take in the rich history of the area from a new perspective, with the sun rising over the horizon illuminating the terrain.
Karnak & Luxor Temples
Karnak, Luxor, Luxor Governorate, Egypt
Karnak, located in Luxor Governorate, is a vast temple complex known for its towering pylons and intricately carved columns. Visitors can stroll through the expansive grounds, admiring the impressive architecture and detailed hieroglyphs. While the site can get busy at times, especially at popular spots, the overall experience is well worth it, with many travelers praising its historical significance and scale.
Steigenberger Achti Luxor
Standard Room
Luxor, Luxor City, Luxor, Luxor Governorate, Egypt
Valley of Kings & Queens & Hatshepsut Temple
Luxor, Luxor Governorate 1340420, Egypt
The Valley of the Kings and Queens, along with Hatshepsut Temple, showcases the burial sites of ancient Egyptian royalty. Visitors can explore well-preserved tombs adorned with clear drawings and carvings, some of which date back thousands of years. The site also features real mummies and impressive statues, offering a glimpse into the lives of the pharaohs, though it can get crowded and humid inside the tombs during the summer months.
Luxor Shuttles
Day 9
The Red Sea at Hurghada
Travel begins with the Luxor Hurghada Shuttle, a comfortable ride lasting 4 to 5 hours, showcasing the Egyptian landscape along the way. Upon arrival at the Hurghada Marriott Hotel, enjoy views of the Red Sea and access to a private beach and pools. Spend the afternoon relaxing at the spa, dining on local and international dishes, and enjoying the coastal atmosphere.
Luxor Hurghada Shuttle
A comfortable road transfer from Luxor to Hurghada — about 4–5 hours across the desert to the Red Sea coast.
Marriott Hurghada
Standard Room
Hurghada, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt
The Hurghada Marriott Hotel offers comfortable accommodations with views of the Red Sea. Guests can enjoy access to a private beach, multiple swimming pools, and a variety of dining options, including local and international cuisine. The hotel also features a spa and wellness center, making it a convenient choice for relaxation after a day of exploring the nearby coral reefs and lively marine life.
Day 10
Home from Hurghada
As the sun rises over Hurghada, you prepare for your flight back to Cairo. You take with you the memories of your time at the Red Sea, recalling the experiences and friendships made along the way. With a sense of gratitude, you board the plane, ready to head home and reflect on your journey.
Hurghada to Cairo Flight
HRG
CAI
Airport Transportation Service
Booking Your Trip
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Egypt Standard Package
All the essentials: accommodation, flights, and activities.
What's Included
Included
- Accommodations
- Transfers
- Activities
- Local Guides
- Entrance Fees
- Airport Pickups
- Group Transportation
- Water
- Domestic Flights
Not Included
- International Flight
- Egypt Visa
- Travelers Insurance
- Additional Luggage Fees
- Tips/Gratuities
- Personal Expenses
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Optional Excursions
- Travel Vaccinations
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Egypt Standard Package
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We believe that travel should be exciting, not stressful. Whether you're a seasoned explorer or embarking on your first international adventure, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
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Have questions? Don't hesitate to reach out — we're just a message away.
About Us
Travel With Amen Ra
We specialize in intimate, accessible, unique travel experiences.
Let’s set out on a journey together that goes beyond borders, a journey that nourishes our curiosity and shifts our perspectives about the world.
What People Are Saying
Karen Hill
4 months agoIf you’re even thinking about going to Egypt—go. And if you want it done right, go with Ramy and @travelwithamenra. From the moment we landed, every detail was handled with precision and care. This wasn’t just a trip, it was a fully curated experience that allowed us to immerse ourselves in Egypt’s history, culture, and beauty without the usual stress of travel logistics. Ramy’s level of organization and expertise was unmatched. Every transfer was seamless, every guide was knowledgeable and engaging, and every stop felt intentional and not rushed or touristy, but meaningful. Whether we were standing in awe at the pyramids, cruising the Nile, or exploring ancient temples, we always felt taken care of and safe. What really stood out was the balance: structured enough to maximize everything we wanted to see, but flexible enough to actually enjoy the moments. The accommodations, food, and overall service exceeded expectations, and you could tell this wasn’t a cookie-cutter itinerary, it was thoughtfully designed. Traveling with my line sisters made it even more special, and Ramy ensured our group experience was smooth, fun, and unforgettable from start to finish. If you’re looking for a trip that combines history, adventure, culture, and top-tier service—this is it. I cannot recommend Ramy and @travelwithamenra enough. 10/10 experience. Egypt owes me nothing. 🇪🇬✨
Kia Dunn
4 months agoJust returned from the most incredible trip to Egypt with @travelwithamenra and I can’t recommend them enough! ✨ They planned an unforgettable experience for our group of 7 women—from the moment we arrived, we felt completely safe, supported, and taken care of. Every detail was handled seamlessly, including transportation, lodging, knowledgeable tour guides, and even unique dining experiences that let us enjoy authentic Egyptian cuisine. We had a jam-packed week full of adventure—touring the pyramids, riding camels and ATVs, sailing the Nile on a traditional felucca, and exploring so many breathtaking monuments and temples. We traveled from Cairo to Aswan to Luxor and then Hurghada, and every transition was smooth and stress-free. What really stood out was how attentive and communicative the team was. They stayed in constant contact, shared helpful travel tips, and taught us so much about the history and culture of ancient Egypt along the way. Traveling internationally with a group can sometimes feel overwhelming, but they made it easy, organized, and truly enjoyable. If you’re considering Egypt (or any destination they offer), this is the team you want by your side. Highly, highly recommend! 💛
Liliana Mutascio
4 months agoWe traveled to Egypt in November 2025 for my 40th birthday and the trip was amazing. Rami organized excellent guides for us at all of the sites, and seeing the pyramids and ancient temples and hieroglyphics in person was mind-blowing. We kept saying that every day was better than the last. It was great having all the transfers organized for us, we did not need to worry about anything when it came to getting around. Aswan was beautiful and it was amazing to sleep at a hotel on the banks of the Nile. Spending a few days in Dahab was an excellent end to the trip - Rami showed us the amazing snorkeling at the reef right off of our beach, and took us to the Blue Lagoon, which was picturesque and surreal. And there are kittens there! Also Rami always had the BEST food recommendations, everything was delicious. I think we definitely saw a more local/authentic side of Egypt and met some amazing people because of Rami, rather than a westernized/touristy vacation.
Victoria Fydrych
4 months agoI cannot recommend Travel with Amen Ra enough if you are hoping to explore the incredible history and culture of Egypt! Ramy and his right-hand man Zayan did an impeccable job planning and executing an awesome itinerary in Cairo for a big group, most of whom were visiting Egypt for the first time. Ramy and Zayan took care of literally every detail, from picking us up before we even reached airport customs to ensuring we had a seamless experience every day of our travels. Ramy planned an itinerary that allowed us to see the best of Cairo (including the incredible Pyramids at Giza) in an efficient and safe way. He even taught us the art of haggling at the bazaar! It was a truly unforgettable trip and would not have been possible but for Travel with Amen Ra's amazing work. Especially if you are a first-time visitor to Egypt, do not waste your time stressing about itinerary planning and travel coordination - call Ramy!
Jordon McAdam
5 months agoWhere do I even start… My wife and I were looking for a DJ for our wedding in El Gouna this year and we connected with Ramy/Amen Ra. After some discussions and letting him know about our desires to have family and friends join from North America and travel Egypt as part of our wedding plans, he WENT TO WORK. Ramy set up a week long itinerary including visas/airport pickup for all 50 of our guests, transportation throughout Cairo for 3 incredible days of customized Cairo tourism, transportation for all to El Gouna, transportation within Gouna to and from our events and wedding, and to top it all off, he set the wedding OFF DJing, hosting, and coordinating the whole night. His team was exceptional, everything was perfect! Our guests just needed to land in Cairo and everything was coordinated and organized for them. There was not one guest that had to worry about a detail of their trip. Zayan was his right hand man and was equally as great to deal with. Both of them were with our group every step of the way and were there to handle anything our group needed throughout our time in beautiful Egypt. Everyone felt safe and well taken care of this whole trip. They went above and beyond what a normal “travel company” may do and became part of our family for that week and now for life. This may not be a normal tourism request but if they can pull this off with flying colours, they can do anything. Everyone that went on this trip is left with a lifetime of memories and Ramy, Zayan and team were a cornerstone of that. Please do not hesitate to use them for any travel requests. They will surpass your expectations with ease!!!! Thank you for making the best week of my life come to fruition and taking care of our family and friends as if they are your own!!! With love, Jord