Frank Pimentel
909-702-4919

The Pharaohs' Trail: Abu Simbel to Cairo – 7 Days / 6 Nights

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

Duration

6 nights / person

Start

Aswan

End

Cairo

Group size

30 - 35 persons

Overview

Step beyond the traditional Egypt itinerary and experience a unique journey through the heart of Upper Egypt 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 some of Egypt’s most remarkable archaeological treasures, including Abu Simbel, Philae, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor, Karnak, Dendera, Abydos, Tell El-Amarna, and Beni Hassan.

Beginning in Aswan and traveling northward to Cairo, this carefully crafted adventure combines world-famous monuments with lesser-visited sites rarely included in traditional itineraries. Along the way, you'll gain deeper insight into ancient Egypt’s history, culture, and daily life while experiencing the diverse landscapes of the Nile Valley.

 

Optional Hotel Upgrade:
Upgrade your accommodation to carefully selected 4★ or 5★ hotels throughout the journey. Please contact us for upgrade options and applicable supplements.

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: 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.

    your visit at the impressive Aswan High Dam, one of the greatest engineering achievements of the 20th century. Built to control the annual flooding of the Nile, the dam created the vast Lake Nasser and continues to play a vital role in Egypt's irrigation and hydroelectric power.

     

  • 2
    Day 2
    —

    SUN: 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.

  • 3
    Day 3
    —

    MON: Temples Along the Nile – Edfu & Kom Ombo

    Sail along the timeless waters of the Nile and discover two of Egypt's best-preserved ancient temples.

    Begin with a visit to the magnificent Temple of Edfu, dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god. Considered one of the most complete temples in Egypt, its towering pylons, grand courtyards, and beautifully preserved reliefs offer a remarkable glimpse into the grandeur of the Ptolemaic period.

    Continue to the unique Temple of Kom Ombo, dramatically situated on the banks of the Nile. This extraordinary double temple was dedicated to both Horus the Elder and Sobek, the crocodile god, making it unlike any other temple in Egypt. Explore its fascinating twin sanctuaries, intricate carvings, and discover the ancient crocodile mummies displayed in the nearby museum.

    Overnight in Luxor.

  • 4
    Day 4
    —

    TUES: Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut

    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.

     

    Overnight in Luxor.

  • 5
    Day 5
    —

    WED:Dendera's Wonders & Luxor by Night

    Visit the 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.

    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.

    Continue to 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.

    Overnight in Sohag.

  • 6
    Day 6
    —

    THU: 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 Minya

  • 7
    Day 7
    —

    FRI: Middle Egypt's Hidden Treasures & Return to Cairo

    As your unforgettable journey through Egypt draws to a close, enjoy one last day exploring the remarkable treasures of Middle Egypt before returning to Cairo.

    Begin with a visit to Tuna El-Gebel, the ancient necropolis of Hermopolis, where fascinating catacombs, rock-cut tombs, and sacred monuments offer a unique insight into the religious traditions of ancient Egypt. Continue to the extraordinary Beni Hassan Tombs, renowned for their beautifully preserved wall paintings depicting everyday life, hunting scenes, athletic competitions, craftsmanship, and family traditions from over 4,000 years ago.

Your Experience Map

Map

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1

Meals: Breakfast

SAT: 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.

your visit at the impressive Aswan High Dam, one of the greatest engineering achievements of the 20th century. Built to control the annual flooding of the Nile, the dam created the vast Lake Nasser and continues to play a vital role in Egypt's irrigation and hydroelectric power.

 

Day 2

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

SUN: 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 3

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

MON: Temples Along the Nile – Edfu & Kom Ombo

Sail along the timeless waters of the Nile and discover two of Egypt's best-preserved ancient temples.

Begin with a visit to the magnificent Temple of Edfu, dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god. Considered one of the most complete temples in Egypt, its towering pylons, grand courtyards, and beautifully preserved reliefs offer a remarkable glimpse into the grandeur of the Ptolemaic period.

Continue to the unique Temple of Kom Ombo, dramatically situated on the banks of the Nile. This extraordinary double temple was dedicated to both Horus the Elder and Sobek, the crocodile god, making it unlike any other temple in Egypt. Explore its fascinating twin sanctuaries, intricate carvings, and discover the ancient crocodile mummies displayed in the nearby museum.

Overnight in Luxor.

Day 4

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

TUES: Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut

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.

 

Overnight in Luxor.

Day 5

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch Hotels

WED:Dendera's Wonders & Luxor by Night

Visit the 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.

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.

Continue to 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.

Overnight in Sohag.

View Al Amir Palace Hotel gallery

Day 6

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Hotels

THU: 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 Minya

View Istanbul Hotel Minya gallery

Day 7

Meals: Lunch

FRI: Middle Egypt's Hidden Treasures & Return to Cairo

As your unforgettable journey through Egypt draws to a close, enjoy one last day exploring the remarkable treasures of Middle Egypt before returning to Cairo.

Begin with a visit to Tuna El-Gebel, the ancient necropolis of Hermopolis, where fascinating catacombs, rock-cut tombs, and sacred monuments offer a unique insight into the religious traditions of ancient Egypt. Continue to the extraordinary Beni Hassan Tombs, renowned for their beautifully preserved wall paintings depicting everyday life, hunting scenes, athletic competitions, craftsmanship, and family traditions from over 4,000 years ago.

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

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

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.