Frank Pimentel
909-702-4919

Journey Through Upper Egypt – 7 Days / 6 Nights

Luxury journeys, curated experiences, and smooth travel operations — built for agents & travelers.

Duration

6 nights / person

Start

Cairo

End

Luxor

Group size

30 - 35 persons

Overview

Step beyond the traditional Egypt itinerary and discover the country's hidden treasures on our Seat in a Bus, Journey Through Upper Egypt.

Travel in comfort aboard a spacious 52-seat coach with a maximum of just 35 guests, ensuring a relaxed and intimate touring experience. Accompanied by an expert Egyptologist, you'll explore remarkable sites including Beni Hassan, Tell El-Amarna, Abydos, Dendera, Luxor, Karnak, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae, and Abu Simbel.

Blending iconic landmarks with lesser-visited gems, this carefully designed journey offers a deeper understanding of ancient Egypt, its people, and its fascinating history. Perfect for travelers seeking more than the ordinary, this tour delivers an enriching and unforgettable experience from Cairo to AbuSimbel.

 

Please note that higher seasonal rates apply during the following travel periods:

• 19 December – 25 December
• 26 December – 1 January
• 2 January – 29 January
• 20 March – 9 April

Short itinerary

Quick route overview
  • 1
    Day 1

    Sat: From Cairo to the Hidden Treasures of Middle Egypt

    Leave the bustle of Cairo behind and begin a journey few travelers ever experience. Traveling in comfort aboard our spacious 52-seat coach, shared with a maximum of just 35 guests, you'll enjoy extra space and a relaxed boutique touring atmosphere.

    Our first discoveries take us deep into Middle Egypt at Tuna El-Gebel, the ancient necropolis of Hermopolis, where catacombs, tombs, and sacred monuments reveal a fascinating world of beliefs and traditions. We then continue to the remarkable Beni Hassan Tombs, often described as ancient Egypt's family albums carved in stone. Admire vivid scenes of daily life, sporting competitions, craftsmanship, hunting, and family moments preserved for over 4,000 years.

    Overnight in Minya.

  • 2
    Day 2

    Sun : Akhenaten's Revolution & The Sacred Land of Abydos

    Today we step into one of the most dramatic chapters in Egyptian history. At Tell El-Amarna, explore the city founded by Pharaoh Akhenaten, the ruler who challenged centuries of tradition by introducing a revolutionary new religion.

    Continuing south, we arrive at magnificent Abydos, one of Egypt's most sacred ancient cities. Here, the breathtaking Temple of Seti I showcases some of the finest reliefs ever carved in Egypt. Highlights include the famous Abydos King List, an invaluable record of Egypt's royal history that continues to fascinate scholars today.

    Overnight in the Abydos

  • 3
    Day 3

    Mon: Optional Extension – Dendera's Wonders & Luxor by Night

    Visit the beautifully preserved Temple of Dendera, dedicated to the goddess Hathor. Renowned for its vibrant colors, intricate carvings, and remarkable astronomical ceilings, Dendera offers one of the most fascinating temple experiences in Egypt.

    Continue to legendary Luxor. Guests choosing the optional 4-night extension to Abu Simbel will begin their extended journey here.

    Alternatively, guests may choose to fly to Sharm El Sheikh to begin the optional Sinai & Jordan extension. This unique journey includes visits to Saint Catherine's Monastery and the sacred landscapes of Sinai before continuing to Amman for further exploration of Jordan's cultural and historical treasures.

    Continue to legendary Luxor, where the adventure concludes with an unforgettable evening visit to Luxor Temple. Beautifully illuminated after sunset, the temple reveals layers of history spanning thousands of years, from the pharaohs and Romans to early Christian and Islamic periods.

    Overnight in Luxor.

  • 4
    Day 4

    Tues: Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut & Karnak

    Today is dedicated to the wonders of ancient Thebes. Cross to Luxor's West Bank and enter the world-famous Valley of the Kings, final resting place of Egypt's greatest pharaohs. Descend into richly decorated royal tombs and uncover stories of power, ambition, and eternity.

    Next, visit the spectacular Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, one of Egypt's most remarkable rulers and a true pioneer of the ancient world.

    The day concludes at the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple Complex, the largest religious complex ever built. Wander through colossal halls, towering obelisks, and monumental gateways while your Egyptologist guide brings over 2,000 years of history to life.

    Overnight in Luxor.

  • 5
    Day 5

    Wed: Temples Along the Nile: Edfu & Kom Ombo

    Travel south through Upper Egypt, following the path of the ancient Nile civilizations.

    Begin at Edfu Temple, a hidden gem tucked below the level of the modern town, where beautifully preserved inscriptions reveal stories of gods and kings. 

    Later, arrive at the unique Temple of Kom Ombo, dramatically positioned on the Nile's edge. This rare double temple was dedicated to both Horus and Sobek, the crocodile god, reflecting the rich spiritual traditions of ancient Egypt.

    Overnight in Aswan.

  • 6
    Day 6

    Thurs: Abu Simbel: A Monument to Greatness

    An unforgettable day awaits as we depart early for the legendary Abu Simbel Temples. Carved into the mountainside by Ramses II, these colossal monuments stand among the greatest achievements of ancient Egypt. Marvel at the giant statues guarding the entrance and discover the remarkable story of how the temples were carefully relocated to save them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser in one of the world's most ambitious archaeological rescue projects.

    After exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site, return to Aswan and enjoy the evening at leisure.

    Overnight in Aswan.

  • 7
    Day 7

    Fri: Discovering Aswan & Philae Temple

    Today, explore the beauty and charm of Aswan, Egypt's southern jewel. Visit the enchanting Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis and beautifully situated on an island surrounded by the tranquil waters of the Nile. Its elegant architecture and peaceful setting make it one of Egypt's most captivating temples.

    Continue exploring the beauty and charm of Aswan, Egypt's southern jewel. Begin with a visit to the impressive Aswan High Dam,

    As your journey comes to an end, take with you more than photographs, you'll leave with unforgettable memories, fascinating stories, and a deeper appreciation of Egypt's rich history and timeless wonders.

    For travelers wishing to extend their Egyptian adventure, an unforgettable optional 3-night felucca journey is available. Step aboard a traditional Nile sailing boat and experience Egypt at a slower pace, drifting past palm-fringed riverbanks, rural villages, and timeless landscapes largely unchanged for centuries.

    Spend three peaceful nights under the stars, enjoying authentic local hospitality and breathtaking Nile scenery before arriving in Luxor. This unique extension offers a rare opportunity to experience the Nile as travelers have done for generations.

    Optional Extension: 3 Nights / 4 Days Felucca Sailing from Aswan to Luxor.

Your Experience Map

Map

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1

Meals: Lunch Hotels

Sat: From Cairo to the Hidden Treasures of Middle Egypt

Leave the bustle of Cairo behind and begin a journey few travelers ever experience. Traveling in comfort aboard our spacious 52-seat coach, shared with a maximum of just 35 guests, you'll enjoy extra space and a relaxed boutique touring atmosphere.

Our first discoveries take us deep into Middle Egypt at Tuna El-Gebel, the ancient necropolis of Hermopolis, where catacombs, tombs, and sacred monuments reveal a fascinating world of beliefs and traditions. We then continue to the remarkable Beni Hassan Tombs, often described as ancient Egypt's family albums carved in stone. Admire vivid scenes of daily life, sporting competitions, craftsmanship, hunting, and family moments preserved for over 4,000 years.

Overnight in Minya.

Day 2

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Hotels

Sun : Akhenaten's Revolution & The Sacred Land of Abydos

Today we step into one of the most dramatic chapters in Egyptian history. At Tell El-Amarna, explore the city founded by Pharaoh Akhenaten, the ruler who challenged centuries of tradition by introducing a revolutionary new religion.

Continuing south, we arrive at magnificent Abydos, one of Egypt's most sacred ancient cities. Here, the breathtaking Temple of Seti I showcases some of the finest reliefs ever carved in Egypt. Highlights include the famous Abydos King List, an invaluable record of Egypt's royal history that continues to fascinate scholars today.

Overnight in the Abydos

Day 3

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Mon: Optional Extension – Dendera's Wonders & Luxor by Night

Visit the beautifully preserved Temple of Dendera, dedicated to the goddess Hathor. Renowned for its vibrant colors, intricate carvings, and remarkable astronomical ceilings, Dendera offers one of the most fascinating temple experiences in Egypt.

Continue to legendary Luxor. Guests choosing the optional 4-night extension to Abu Simbel will begin their extended journey here.

Alternatively, guests may choose to fly to Sharm El Sheikh to begin the optional Sinai & Jordan extension. This unique journey includes visits to Saint Catherine's Monastery and the sacred landscapes of Sinai before continuing to Amman for further exploration of Jordan's cultural and historical treasures.

Continue to legendary Luxor, where the adventure concludes with an unforgettable evening visit to Luxor Temple. Beautifully illuminated after sunset, the temple reveals layers of history spanning thousands of years, from the pharaohs and Romans to early Christian and Islamic periods.

Overnight in Luxor.

Day 4

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Tues: Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut & Karnak

Today is dedicated to the wonders of ancient Thebes. Cross to Luxor's West Bank and enter the world-famous Valley of the Kings, final resting place of Egypt's greatest pharaohs. Descend into richly decorated royal tombs and uncover stories of power, ambition, and eternity.

Next, visit the spectacular Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, one of Egypt's most remarkable rulers and a true pioneer of the ancient world.

The day concludes at the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple Complex, the largest religious complex ever built. Wander through colossal halls, towering obelisks, and monumental gateways while your Egyptologist guide brings over 2,000 years of history to life.

Overnight in Luxor.

Day 5

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Wed: Temples Along the Nile: Edfu & Kom Ombo

Travel south through Upper Egypt, following the path of the ancient Nile civilizations.

Begin at Edfu Temple, a hidden gem tucked below the level of the modern town, where beautifully preserved inscriptions reveal stories of gods and kings. 

Later, arrive at the unique Temple of Kom Ombo, dramatically positioned on the Nile's edge. This rare double temple was dedicated to both Horus and Sobek, the crocodile god, reflecting the rich spiritual traditions of ancient Egypt.

Overnight in Aswan.

Day 6

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Thurs: Abu Simbel: A Monument to Greatness

An unforgettable day awaits as we depart early for the legendary Abu Simbel Temples. Carved into the mountainside by Ramses II, these colossal monuments stand among the greatest achievements of ancient Egypt. Marvel at the giant statues guarding the entrance and discover the remarkable story of how the temples were carefully relocated to save them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser in one of the world's most ambitious archaeological rescue projects.

After exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site, return to Aswan and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Overnight in Aswan.

Day 7

Meals: Breakfast

Fri: Discovering Aswan & Philae Temple

Today, explore the beauty and charm of Aswan, Egypt's southern jewel. Visit the enchanting Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis and beautifully situated on an island surrounded by the tranquil waters of the Nile. Its elegant architecture and peaceful setting make it one of Egypt's most captivating temples.

Continue exploring the beauty and charm of Aswan, Egypt's southern jewel. Begin with a visit to the impressive Aswan High Dam,

As your journey comes to an end, take with you more than photographs, you'll leave with unforgettable memories, fascinating stories, and a deeper appreciation of Egypt's rich history and timeless wonders.

For travelers wishing to extend their Egyptian adventure, an unforgettable optional 3-night felucca journey is available. Step aboard a traditional Nile sailing boat and experience Egypt at a slower pace, drifting past palm-fringed riverbanks, rural villages, and timeless landscapes largely unchanged for centuries.

Spend three peaceful nights under the stars, enjoying authentic local hospitality and breathtaking Nile scenery before arriving in Luxor. This unique extension offers a rare opportunity to experience the Nile as travelers have done for generations.

Optional Extension: 3 Nights / 4 Days Felucca Sailing from Aswan to Luxor.

Inclusions

Transportation & Onboard Facilities

Travel in comfort aboard our modern, air-conditioned coach, designed for long-distance touring across Egypt.

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi onboard
  • USB charging ports at every seat
  • Onboard restroom facilities
  • Professional driver and regular comfort stops
  • Modern coach fleet (2025–2027 model years, subject to availability)

Main Tour

Included:

  • 2 nights' accommodation in carefully selected 3★ hotels or similar:
    • 1 night in Minya
    • 1 night in Sohag
  • Private air-conditioned transportation throughout the tour
  • Services of a professional English-speaking Egyptologist guide

Optional Upper Egypt Extension – Luxor, Aswan & Abu Simbel (4 Nights)

Included:

  • 4 nights' accommodation in carefully selected 3★ hotels or similar:
    • 2 nights in Luxor
    • 2 nights in Aswan
  • Private air-conditioned transportation throughout the extension
  • Services of a professional English-speaking Egyptologist guide
  • Daily lunch at selected local restaurants
  • All service charges and applicable taxes

Exclusions

❌ Entrance fees
❌ Egyptian visa (USD 30 per person)
❌ Tipping and personal expenses
❌ International flights
❌ Domestic flights
❌ Optional tours and activities
❌ Fast Track (VIP airport service) – USD 5 per person
❌ Travel insurance

FAQ

Egypt is very safe to visit and the police, tourist police, and army are in prominence wherever you go, giving you a feel of being in secure surroundings. Egypt prides itself on its high safety record for tourists and will do all it can to maintain this.

Egyptian Arabic is the official and most widely spoken language in Egypt. English is taught in schools and is considered a secondary language that is most commonly used for tourism purposes.

The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian Pound. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants and upscale shops. There are also ATMs available at hotels and outside major banks dispensing local currency.

The best time to visit Egypt would be during the winter months, from October to April. The temperatures are mild and pleasant, although evenings can become quite cool. December through January are the peak tourist months so expect large crowds if travelling at this time. The best time to enjoy the beaches, without having to endure the large crowds of summer tourists, would be from March to May. Temperatures at this time are warm and tourist sites are not too crowded.

Egypt, being a predominantly Muslim country, is naturally conservative (not like the Gulf States or Saudi Arabia) but the average people are careful in what they wear. The dress code in Egypt for women is considered conservative by western standards and it is respectful to obey this code. For men it is not really an issue -- normal trousers and shirt or T-shirt are fine -- but in Cairo it would not be acceptable to wear short shorts or a tank tops/sleeveless tops. In the resorts like Sharm El Sheik, Hurghada, Sinai, etc. -- shorts are fine and it is very open and flexible. This also applies to ladies for the beach areas, but going into the market area in Hurghada, for example you may be more comfortable in trousers. Generally for men in Cairo or any city that is not on the sea side, remain with trousers (at tourist sites long loose shorts) or jeans and T-shirt , as even in Cairo, local people do not feel comfortable seeing a man in shorts. In Sea Side areas it's ok to walk in shorts, but once you enter a local restaurant or market, it's better to be more covered.

For the vast majority of travelers to Egypt, a valid passport and a travel visa is required. A visa can easily be purchased at the airport when you arrive. The cost for a single-entry, 30-day tourist visa is $25 (or equivalent in Euro), must be paid in cash (no credit or debit cards accepted), and your passport must be valid for at least six months. Citizens of all European countries, Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, South Korea, Macedonia, New Zealand, Norway, Russia, Serbia, Ukraine and United States can obtain a visa upon arrival. (Egypt does allow visa-free access for certain countries such as Bahrain, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Lebanon, Macao, Oman, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Malaysia.) Visas can also be purchased beforehand through Egypt’s Visa e-Portal: https://visa2egypt.gov.eg. Forty-one different nationalities are eligible to purchase the e-visa, however, it’s far easier to simply buy the visa at the airport.

As with most European and North American countries, tipping is graciously accepted in Egypt. A 10% tip at restaurants and to guides and drivers is standard. Unfortunately, at major tourist sites like the Pyramids of Giza or the tombs of the Valley of the Kings, touts aggressively hustle for tips by allowing you to take photos in areas where it’s clearly posted as prohibited (such as inside the tombs). Please refrain from perpetuating this problem by not paying to take pictures.

Egypt has a voltage supply of 220V and the plugs are the 2-round pin type that are common throughout Europe.

As noted previously, Egypt is a Muslim country, therefore alcohol is not readily available outside of tourist areas and western-style hotels/resorts. Beer and wine is available for purchase on all Dragonfly Kite Safaris.