6-day classic Egypt tour itinerary
1st day: Welcome to Egypt—The Land of the Pharaohs
Your adventure begins the moment you arrive at Cairo International Airport. A representative from Egypt Fun Tours will warmly greet you at the arrival gate. They will assist with passport control, baggage identification, and customs procedures to ensure a smooth start to your journey.
Next, you’ll enjoy a private transfer in an air-conditioned vehicle to your reserved 5-star hotel. After settling in, the excitement continues with a dinner cruise on the legendary Nile River. During the cruise, you’ll enjoy a lively belly dancing performance, accompanied by a folklore band and an incredible Tannura spin inspired by Egypt’s whirling dervishes tradition.
After the show, you’ll return to your hotel for a restful night, preparing for the adventures ahead.
2nd day: Explore the Pyramids & Memphis City
After an energizing breakfast, you’ll meet your private tour guide to begin exploring the wonders of Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Your first stop will be the iconic Giza Pyramids Complex, one of the oldest and most famous archaeological sites in the world.
Giza Pyramids Complex
At the Giza Plateau, you’ll marvel at the Great Pyramid of King Khufu, the last remaining wonder of the ancient world. Built over 4,500 years ago using 2.3 million limestone blocks, it reaches an astonishing height of 147 meters (481 feet). This engineering marvel held the title of the tallest structure in the world for nearly 3,800 years.
Next, you’ll visit the Great Sphinx, a breathtaking limestone statue with a lion’s body and a human head representing King Khafre. Known as “Abu Al-Hawl” or “The Father of Terror” in Arabic, the Sphinx symbolizes power and wisdom.
Afterward, you’ll explore the Valley Temple, where ancient Egyptians performed mummification rituals. This impressive structure, built during the Old Kingdom, offers incredible insights into their burial traditions and features stunning diorite statues of King Khafre.
Step Pyramid of Saqqara
Following lunch at a local Cairo restaurant, you’ll visit the Step Pyramid of Saqqara, Egypt’s first pyramid. Designed by the brilliant architect Imhotep for Pharaoh Djoser, the pyramid was constructed around 2700 BC. Its unique six-step design, rising to 62 meters, marked the start of Egypt’s pyramid-building era.
Memphis City
Your final stop for the day is Memphis, the first capital of unified Ancient Egypt, founded by King Menes over 4,500 years ago. Known as the “land of endurance and beauty,” Memphis became a center of art, culture, and commerce. Here, you’ll explore the Hut-Ka-Ptah Temple, dedicated to the god Ptah, the “Patron of Craftsmen.” Interestingly, the temple’s name is the origin of the word “Egypt,” derived from the Greek term “Aigyptos.” After a full day of exploration, you’ll return to your hotel in Cairo to relax and reflect on the day’s unforgettable experiences.
3rd day: Fly to Aswan and Tour the City’s Attractions
Your day begins with breakfast at the hotel before we drive you to the airport for your flight to Aswan. Upon arrival, your Egyptologist tour guide will meet you to begin exploring the city’s highlights, starting with:
The High Dam
The High Dam, built between 1960 and 1970 during the leadership of Gamal Abdel Nasser, symbolizes modern Egypt’s engineering achievements. Constructed in collaboration with the Moscow-based Hydro Project Institute, the dam serves multiple purposes. It provides water storage for agriculture in Lake Nasser, generates hydroelectric power, and helps control Nile River floods.
The Unfinished Obelisk
Next, visit the Unfinished Obelisk, commissioned by Queen Hatshepsut (1508–1458 BC). This massive obelisk was meant to stand at the entrance of the Karnak Temple, alongside the Lateran Obelisk (now in Rome). Unfortunately, a crack during construction left it incomplete, and it remains in place to this day. The obelisk is 42 meters tall and weighs an incredible 1,200 tons, showcasing the ancient Egyptians’ advanced craftsmanship.
The Temple of Philae
Lastly, explore the Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis, the deity of love and beauty. The temple’s walls depict the myth of Osiris, showcasing the story of his resurrection and his son Horus’ defeat of Set. This tale is one of the most famous legends in ancient Egyptian mythology. After a day full of exploration, you’ll check into a 5-star hotel in Aswan for a relaxing overnight stay.
Day 4: Travel to Luxor and Discover Its Treasures
After breakfast at your Aswan hotel, you’ll take a scenic train ride to Luxor. Upon arrival, you will meet your tour guide and dive into Luxor’s rich history by visiting the following landmarks:
Valley of the Kings
Your first stop is the Valley of the Kings, a magnificent burial site for New Kingdom pharaohs (1570–1070 BC). Nestled deep within the mountains, this UNESCO World Heritage Site contains 63 tombs, each adorned with captivating treasures, decorations, and sculptures. Famous rulers buried here include Amenhotep I, Hatshepsut, Ramesses II, and the legendary King Tutankhamun.
Temple of Hatshepsut
Next, visit the stunning Temple of Hatshepsut, also known as Djeser-Djeseru (“Holy of Holies”). Built in 1479 BC, this temple honors Queen Hatshepsut, one of Egypt’s most powerful rulers, and the god Amun. Its unique design and grandeur stand as a testament to the architectural brilliance of ancient Egypt.
Colossi of Memnon
Then, marvel at the Colossi of Memnon, two massive statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III that stand 18 meters tall and weigh 720 tons each. Damaged by an earthquake in 27 BC, the statues were later reconstructed in 199 AD. During the Greco-Roman era, the statues became famous for their “singing” phenomenon, a sound caused by wind passing through the cracks at dawn.
Karnak Temple
After lunch, continue to the Karnak Temple, one of the largest and most important religious sites in the world. Known as Ipet-Isu (“The Most Selected of Places”), the temple served as the spiritual heart of ancient Egypt for over 1,500 years. Its massive columns, intricate carvings, and sacred lake make it one of Luxor’s most awe-inspiring landmarks. End the day with a relaxing night at a 5-star hotel in Luxor.
5th day: Fly to Cairo and Explore Its Historic Sites
Enjoy breakfast at your Luxor hotel before heading to the airport for your flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival, your tour guide will take you on a journey through Cairo’s most remarkable landmarks:
The Egyptian Museum
Begin at the Egyptian Museum, home to an extraordinary collection of artifacts spanning over 4,000 years. From exquisite statues to treasures from King Tutankhamun’s tomb, the museum offers a captivating glimpse into ancient Egypt’s history and mysteries.
Salah El Din Citadel
Next, visit the Citadel of Salah El Din, a towering fortress built in 1182 AD by the great leader Salah El Din. Overlooking Cairo, the citadel was the seat of power for over 700 years and played a crucial role in defending the city against invasions, including Napoleon’s forces.
Mosque of Mohamed Ali
Within the citadel, explore the Mosque of Mohamed Ali, also known as the Alabaster Mosque. Constructed between 1830 and 1848, it was inspired by the Blue Mosque in Istanbul and symbolizes freedom and independence. Its stunning architecture, marble interiors, and domed ceilings make it one of Cairo’s most beautiful landmarks.
Khan El Khalili Bazaar
Conclude the day with a visit to the vibrant Khan El Khalili Bazaar, one of the oldest markets in the Middle East. Established in 970 AD, the bazaar is a treasure trove of handmade goods, jewelry, spices, and souvenirs. Its stunning Islamic architecture and lively atmosphere transport you back to the days of medieval Cairo. After a day full of exploration, we’ll transfer you back to your hotel for the night.
Last day: End of the 6-Day Classic Egypt Tour
After breakfast at your hotel, our representative will escort you to the airport and assist with all departure procedures. This marks the end of your unforgettable 6-day journey through Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan.
