Africa
Egypt
The Nile, the pyramids, and a civilization that defined the world
About Egypt
Egypt is one of the most extraordinary destinations on earth. Few countries offer the combination of monumental antiquity, living culture, and dramatic landscape that a thoughtfully planned Egyptian journey delivers. We design itineraries that pair the iconic sites of Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan with the unhurried rhythm of a Nile cruise, allowing the country's history to unfold the way it was meant to.
A Nile cruise remains the most refined way to see Upper Egypt. Sailing between Luxor and Aswan, you wake within walking distance of temples that have stood for three to four thousand years. We work with established Nile cruise operators including AmaWaterways and small-ship lines to match you with the right vessel, whether you prefer an intimate dahabiya for fewer than twenty guests or a larger river ship with full amenities.
Cairo deserves more than a single overnight on either side of a cruise. The Grand Egyptian Museum, the pyramids of Giza and Saqqara, and the labyrinth of Islamic Cairo each warrant their own day. We arrange private Egyptologist guides who can move you through the sites efficiently and provide the historical context that turns sightseeing into genuine understanding.
Beyond the classical itinerary, Egypt rewards travelers who want to go further. The Red Sea coast offers world-class diving and resort relaxation. The White Desert and Siwa Oasis open a side of Egypt few visitors ever see. And Alexandria, with its Greco-Roman heritage and Mediterranean atmosphere, provides a fascinating contrast to the ancient sites of the south.
Best Time to Visit
October through April offers the most comfortable temperatures for sightseeing. December and January are peak season. May and September are shoulder months with good value and fewer crowds. We do not recommend June through August due to extreme heat at the southern sites.
Region
Africa
Where to explore
Each area of Egypt has its own character. Here is what to expect and who each region suits best.
Cairo and Giza
The capital is where most journeys begin and end. Beyond the pyramids and the Grand Egyptian Museum, Cairo offers the medieval mosques and bazaars of Islamic Cairo, the Coptic Christian quarter, and a thriving contemporary art and dining scene. We recommend a minimum of three nights to do the city justice.
Luxor and the Nile Valley
Often called the world's greatest open-air museum, Luxor sits on the site of ancient Thebes. Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, and Hatshepsut's temple at Deir el-Bahari are all within easy reach. Most Nile cruises begin or end here.
Aswan and Abu Simbel
Aswan is the most relaxed of the major Egyptian cities, with a stunning setting on the Nile and easy access to Philae Temple, the Aswan High Dam, and the Nubian villages. Abu Simbel, three hours south by road or a short flight, is one of the most awe-inspiring sites in Egypt.
Red Sea Coast
Sharm el-Sheikh, Hurghada, and the smaller resort towns of El Gouna and Marsa Alam offer world-class diving, snorkeling, and resort relaxation. This is where most Egyptian itineraries conclude with three to five nights of decompression after the antiquities.
Highlights of Egypt
Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx with private early-morning access
The Grand Egyptian Museum, home to the complete Tutankhamun collection
Luxor's Karnak and Valley of the Kings with a private Egyptologist
Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan on AmaWaterways or a small dahabiya
Abu Simbel, Ramses II's monumental rock-cut temples
Felucca sailing at sunset on the Nile
Experiences we curate
Nile River Cruising
A four to seven night cruise between Luxor and Aswan is the centerpiece of most Egyptian itineraries. We work with AmaWaterways for their refined small-ship Nile experience, and with established dahabiya operators for travelers who want the intimacy of a sailing yacht. Each morning brings a new temple, and afternoons unfold at the pace of the river. We handle the cabin selection, shore excursions, and onboard arrangements so you can simply step aboard and settle in.
Private Egyptologist Tours
The difference between a good Egypt trip and an unforgettable one is almost always the guide. We arrange private Egyptologists who hold advanced degrees and have spent decades working at the sites you are visiting. They can secure early-morning access to the pyramids, time your Valley of the Kings visit to avoid the heat and crowds, and provide the historical context that brings the hieroglyphs and temple reliefs to life.
Cairo and the Grand Egyptian Museum
The newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum near the Giza pyramids is the largest archaeological museum in the world and houses the complete Tutankhamun collection for the first time in history. We pair a half day at the museum with private early-morning pyramid access, a visit to Saqqara (the older step pyramid complex), and a guided walk through the Khan el-Khalili bazaar and the medieval mosques of Islamic Cairo.
Red Sea and Beyond
After the intensity of the antiquities, many travelers extend their Egyptian journey with three to five nights on the Red Sea coast. The reefs at Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada are among the finest in the world, and the resort offerings range from family-friendly to ultra-elevated. For travelers seeking an even more remote experience, we arrange visits to the White Desert, Siwa Oasis, and the Mediterranean coast at Alexandria.
Practical notes
Cairo International Airport (CAI) is the main gateway. Domestic flights connect to Luxor, Aswan, and the Red Sea coast.
US citizens require a visa, which can be obtained on arrival or in advance. We provide guidance with the application process.
Tipping (baksheesh) is customary throughout Egypt and we provide a tipping guide as part of your travel documents.
We strongly recommend travel insurance for Egypt, particularly given the value of cruise and journey components.
A complete Egyptian itinerary typically requires ten to fourteen days, including Cairo, a Nile cruise, and Abu Simbel.
Plan Your Trip
Ways we plan Egypt
About Egypt
October through April offers the most comfortable temperatures for sightseeing in Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. December and January are peak season. We do not recommend June through August due to extreme heat at the southern sites.
Yes. A four to seven night Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan is the most refined way to see Upper Egypt. We work with AmaWaterways and small dahabiya operators to match you with the right ship and cabin.
Ten to fourteen days for a complete itinerary that includes Cairo, a Nile cruise, and Abu Simbel. Travelers extending to the Red Sea or Alexandria should plan for fourteen nights or more.
Ready to plan your Egypt journey?
We would welcome the chance to learn about your vision for Egypt and design an experience tailored to your interests.
Schedule Your Consultation