Overview
Experience Egypt in reverse on this fascinating journey from Luxor to the Western Desert Oases. Begin by exploring the magnificent temples of Luxor, Karnak, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae, and the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel before leaving the Nile Valley behind and venturing into Egypt’s remote desert landscapes.
Travel through the historic Kharga and Dakhla Oases, discover ancient settlements and desert traditions, marvel at the spectacular White Desert and Farafra Oasis, and conclude your adventure in Bahariya Oasis and the dramatic Black Desert. Blending world-famous monuments with breathtaking natural wonders, this itinerary offers a unique perspective on Egypt’s rich heritage and diverse landscapes.
Please Note: The felucca sightseeing order may change according to navigation conditions, but all visits included in the itinerary will be completed. The felucca is equipped with fullboard and toilet facilities for guests' convenience.
Short itinerary
Quick route overview-
1
Day 1
WED: Aswan Highlights – High Dam & Philae Temple
Discover the timeless beauty of Aswan, Egypt's charming southern city, where ancient history meets the tranquil waters of the Nile.
Begin your day with a visit to 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 provide irrigation and hydroelectric power to much of Egypt.
Continue with a scenic motorboat ride to the enchanting Philae Temple, beautifully situated on Agilkia Island and dedicated to the goddess Isis, the goddess of love, magic, and motherhood. Admire its elegant colonnades, beautifully carved reliefs, and peaceful island setting, making it one of Egypt's most captivating and photogenic temples.
Return to your cruise to relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the Nile.
Overnight: Aswan
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2
Day 2
THU: Abu Simbel – The Masterpiece of Ramses II
Rise early for an unforgettable journey to the magnificent Abu Simbel Temples, one of Egypt's most awe-inspiring archaeological treasures and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Carved directly into the mountainside by Pharaoh Ramses II over 3,000 years ago, the Great Temple stands as a remarkable symbol of ancient Egypt's power and architectural brilliance. Marvel at the four colossal statues of Ramses II guarding the temple entrance, while inside, beautifully preserved reliefs depict the Pharaoh's military victories, religious ceremonies, and devotion to the gods.
After exploring these extraordinary monuments, return to Aswan, carrying unforgettable memories of one of Egypt's greatest masterpieces.
Overnight: Aswan
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3
Day 3
Friday: Nubian Village Experience
Begin your journey in the beautiful city of Aswan. Embarkation aboard your traditional felucca, set sail along the tranquil waters of the Nile.
In the afternoon, visit a colorful Nubian village, where you'll have the opportunity to discover local traditions, vibrant houses, and the warm hospitality of the Nubian people. Enjoy free time to explore the village's narrow lanes, local handicraft shops, and scenic riverfront views.
Return to the felucca and continue sailing northward as the sun sets over the Nile.
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4
Day 4
Sat.: Crocodile Museum & Nile Sailing
Wake up to a peaceful morning on the Nile and enjoy breakfast on board while sailing through Upper Egypt's picturesque landscapes.
Later, visit the fascinating Crocodile Museum and Kom Ombo, home to a remarkable collection of mummified crocodiles and exhibits dedicated to the sacred crocodile god Sobek. Explore the museum and learn about the important role crocodiles played in ancient Egyptian religion and daily life.
After the visit, continue your leisurely felucca voyage, passing riverside villages, palm groves, and fertile farmlands.
In the evening, gather on a picturesque Nile island for a special farewell dinner featuring authentic Egyptian cuisine. The evening is enhanced with traditional music and local entertainment, creating a memorable celebration beneath the stars.
Overnight aboard the felucca.
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5
Day 5
Sun: Edfu Temple – The Best-Preserved Temple of Ancient Egypt
Enjoy a relaxing morning as you sail along the timeless Nile before arriving at Edfu, home to one of Egypt's most impressive ancient monuments.
Visit the magnificent Temple of Horus, the best-preserved temple in Egypt and one of the finest examples of Ptolemaic architecture. Dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god, the temple features towering gateways, beautifully carved reliefs, and remarkably intact sanctuaries that offer a fascinating glimpse into the rituals and beliefs of ancient Egypt.
After your visit, continue sailing toward Luxor, soaking in the tranquil scenery of the Nile and watching everyday life unfold along its fertile banks.
Overnight aboard the felucca.
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6
Day 6
Mon: Esna , Luxor's West Bank – Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple & Colossi of Memnon
After a leisurely morning on the Nile, arrive in Esna and visit the magnificent Temple of Khnum, renowned for its beautifully preserved columns, intricate carvings, and colorful astronomical ceiling. Continue sailing toward Luxor while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the Nile.
Cross to Luxor's legendary West Bank, the ancient land of the pharaohs' eternal resting place, where some of Egypt's most remarkable archaeological treasures await.
Begin your exploration in the world-famous Valley of the Kings, the royal burial ground of the New Kingdom pharaohs. Venture inside beautifully decorated tombs adorned with vibrant hieroglyphs and intricate scenes depicting the journey to the afterlife, revealing the extraordinary beliefs of ancient Egyptian civilization.
Continue to the magnificent Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, one of Egypt's most striking architectural masterpieces. Built into the dramatic limestone cliffs of Deir el-Bahari, this elegant mortuary temple honors Egypt's most successful female pharaoh and is celebrated for its harmonious design and impressive colonnades.
Conclude your tour with a visit to the iconic Colossi of Memnon, two colossal stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III that have stood proudly guarding his ancient mortuary temple for more than 3,400 years.
Return to your Nile Cruise to relax and enjoy the remainder of the day.
Overnight: Luxor
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7
Day 7
TUE: Luxor's East Bank – Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple & the Avenue of Sphinxes
Discover the magnificent temples of Luxor's East Bank, where the grandeur of ancient Thebes is beautifully preserved.
Begin your visit at the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple Complex, the largest religious complex ever built in ancient Egypt. Wander through its monumental halls, towering columns, sacred lake, and magnificent obelisks while uncovering nearly two thousand years of pharaonic history.
Continue to the elegant Luxor Temple, a masterpiece built by Amenhotep III and later expanded by Ramses II. Admire its colossal statues, graceful colonnades, and remarkable architecture that has witnessed thousands of years of history.
Complete your experience with a stroll along the beautifully restored Avenue of Sphinxes, the ancient ceremonial road connecting Karnak and Luxor Temples. Lined with hundreds of sphinx statues, this spectacular avenue once hosted the grand Opet Festival and today offers one of Egypt's most impressive archaeological walks.
Overnight: Luxor
-
8
Day 8
WED: From Luxor to Kharga Oasis – Gateway to the Western Desert
Leave the ancient temples of Luxor behind and set out on a scenic journey into Egypt's magnificent Western Desert, where breathtaking landscapes and timeless oases await.
As you travel through the vast desert, watch the scenery gradually transform from the fertile Nile Valley to endless golden plains, offering a unique glimpse into one of Egypt's most untouched regions. Enjoy the peaceful drive and the ever-changing desert panoramas before arriving at Kharga Oasis, the largest of Egypt's southern oases.
Upon arrival, take in the tranquil atmosphere of the oasis and relax as you prepare for the exciting desert adventures that lie ahead.
Overnight: Kharga Oasis
-
9
Day 9
THU: Into Egypt's Western Desert – Journey to Kharga Oasis
Leave the fertile Nile Valley behind and venture into the vast landscapes of Egypt's Western Desert, where a new chapter of discovery begins. As the scenery transforms from green fields to endless golden horizons, experience the timeless beauty and tranquility of the desert.
Arrive at Kharga Oasis, the largest and most important of Egypt's southern oases, where civilizations have flourished for thousands of years along ancient caravan routes.
Begin your exploration at the remarkable Temple of Hibis, the only major temple in Egypt dating to the Persian Period. Built during the reign of Darius I and dedicated to the Theban Triad—Amun, Mut, and Khonsu—its beautifully carved sandstone walls and columns offer a fascinating glimpse into one of Egypt's lesser-known historical eras.
Continue to the extraordinary Necropolis of El Bagawat, one of the oldest and best-preserved Christian cemeteries in the world. Wander among its distinctive mudbrick domed chapels, where remarkably preserved frescoes and biblical scenes reveal the spiritual life of Egypt's early Christian communities.
As the sun sets over the tranquil oasis, embrace the peaceful atmosphere that marks the beginning of your unforgettable journey through Egypt's magnificent Western Desert.
Overnight: Kharga Oasis
-
10
Day 10
FRI: Discovering Dakhla Oasis – Al Qasr Islamic Village
Continue your journey deeper into Egypt's magnificent Western Desert as you arrive at the lush Dakhla Oasis, a fertile haven that has welcomed travelers and caravans for thousands of years.
Explore the beautifully preserved Al Qasr Islamic Village, a remarkable medieval settlement built almost entirely of mudbrick. Wander through its narrow, winding alleyways, where traditional houses, ancient mosques, and beautifully carved wooden doors create an atmosphere that seems untouched by time. Once an important stop along the historic caravan routes, Al Qasr offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily life, architecture, and traditions of Egypt's desert communities.
As evening falls over the peaceful oasis, soak in the unique charm of this timeless desert sanctuary before continuing your adventure through the Western Desert.
Overnight: Dakhla Oasis
-
11
Day 11
SAT: Farafra Oasis & The Enchanting White Desert
Today, continue your adventure south to the peaceful Farafra Oasis, gateway to one of Egypt's most extraordinary natural wonders.
Journey into the breathtaking White Desert National Park, where millions of years of wind and sand have sculpted dazzling white limestone formations into surreal shapes resembling mushrooms, towering pillars, giant animals, and other remarkable natural sculptures. This unique landscape creates one of the most spectacular desert panoramas in the world.
As the day draws to a close, witness the desert transformed by the golden light of sunset before experiencing the unforgettable tranquility of this untouched wilderness. Far from city lights, the White Desert offers an extraordinary opportunity to admire a sky filled with countless stars, creating an atmosphere of complete serenity and wonder that few places on Earth can match.
Overnight: Farafra Oasis
-
12
Day 12
SUN: Bahariya Oasis, the Black Desert & Return to Cairo
As your remarkable journey through Egypt's Western Desert comes to an end, enjoy one final day discovering the unique landscapes of Bahariya Oasis before returning to Cairo.
Explore the lush Bahariya Oasis, a peaceful haven of palm groves, natural springs, and fertile gardens that has welcomed travelers for centuries. Continue to the dramatic Black Desert, where ancient volcanic hills rise from the golden sands, creating one of Egypt's most distinctive and unforgettable desert landscapes.
Take in the final panoramic views of the vast wilderness before beginning your comfortable drive back to Cairo, reflecting on an extraordinary adventure through remote oases, ancient temples, medieval villages, and some of the most breathtaking desert scenery in the world.
Arrive in Cairo in the evening, bringing to a close an unforgettable expedition across Egypt's timeless Western Desert.
Your Experience Map
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
WED: Aswan Highlights – High Dam & Philae Temple
Discover the timeless beauty of Aswan, Egypt's charming southern city, where ancient history meets the tranquil waters of the Nile.
Begin your day with a visit to 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 provide irrigation and hydroelectric power to much of Egypt.
Continue with a scenic motorboat ride to the enchanting Philae Temple, beautifully situated on Agilkia Island and dedicated to the goddess Isis, the goddess of love, magic, and motherhood. Admire its elegant colonnades, beautifully carved reliefs, and peaceful island setting, making it one of Egypt's most captivating and photogenic temples.
Return to your cruise to relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the Nile.
Overnight: Aswan
Day 2
THU: Abu Simbel – The Masterpiece of Ramses II
Rise early for an unforgettable journey to the magnificent Abu Simbel Temples, one of Egypt's most awe-inspiring archaeological treasures and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Carved directly into the mountainside by Pharaoh Ramses II over 3,000 years ago, the Great Temple stands as a remarkable symbol of ancient Egypt's power and architectural brilliance. Marvel at the four colossal statues of Ramses II guarding the temple entrance, while inside, beautifully preserved reliefs depict the Pharaoh's military victories, religious ceremonies, and devotion to the gods.
After exploring these extraordinary monuments, return to Aswan, carrying unforgettable memories of one of Egypt's greatest masterpieces.
Overnight: Aswan
Day 3
Friday: Nubian Village Experience
Begin your journey in the beautiful city of Aswan. Embarkation aboard your traditional felucca, set sail along the tranquil waters of the Nile.
In the afternoon, visit a colorful Nubian village, where you'll have the opportunity to discover local traditions, vibrant houses, and the warm hospitality of the Nubian people. Enjoy free time to explore the village's narrow lanes, local handicraft shops, and scenic riverfront views.
Return to the felucca and continue sailing northward as the sun sets over the Nile.
Day 4
Sat.: Crocodile Museum & Nile Sailing
Wake up to a peaceful morning on the Nile and enjoy breakfast on board while sailing through Upper Egypt's picturesque landscapes.
Later, visit the fascinating Crocodile Museum and Kom Ombo, home to a remarkable collection of mummified crocodiles and exhibits dedicated to the sacred crocodile god Sobek. Explore the museum and learn about the important role crocodiles played in ancient Egyptian religion and daily life.
After the visit, continue your leisurely felucca voyage, passing riverside villages, palm groves, and fertile farmlands.
In the evening, gather on a picturesque Nile island for a special farewell dinner featuring authentic Egyptian cuisine. The evening is enhanced with traditional music and local entertainment, creating a memorable celebration beneath the stars.
Overnight aboard the felucca.
Day 5
Sun: Edfu Temple – The Best-Preserved Temple of Ancient Egypt
Enjoy a relaxing morning as you sail along the timeless Nile before arriving at Edfu, home to one of Egypt's most impressive ancient monuments.
Visit the magnificent Temple of Horus, the best-preserved temple in Egypt and one of the finest examples of Ptolemaic architecture. Dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god, the temple features towering gateways, beautifully carved reliefs, and remarkably intact sanctuaries that offer a fascinating glimpse into the rituals and beliefs of ancient Egypt.
After your visit, continue sailing toward Luxor, soaking in the tranquil scenery of the Nile and watching everyday life unfold along its fertile banks.
Overnight aboard the felucca.
Day 6
Mon: Esna , Luxor's West Bank – Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple & Colossi of Memnon
After a leisurely morning on the Nile, arrive in Esna and visit the magnificent Temple of Khnum, renowned for its beautifully preserved columns, intricate carvings, and colorful astronomical ceiling. Continue sailing toward Luxor while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the Nile.
Cross to Luxor's legendary West Bank, the ancient land of the pharaohs' eternal resting place, where some of Egypt's most remarkable archaeological treasures await.
Begin your exploration in the world-famous Valley of the Kings, the royal burial ground of the New Kingdom pharaohs. Venture inside beautifully decorated tombs adorned with vibrant hieroglyphs and intricate scenes depicting the journey to the afterlife, revealing the extraordinary beliefs of ancient Egyptian civilization.
Continue to the magnificent Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, one of Egypt's most striking architectural masterpieces. Built into the dramatic limestone cliffs of Deir el-Bahari, this elegant mortuary temple honors Egypt's most successful female pharaoh and is celebrated for its harmonious design and impressive colonnades.
Conclude your tour with a visit to the iconic Colossi of Memnon, two colossal stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III that have stood proudly guarding his ancient mortuary temple for more than 3,400 years.
Return to your Nile Cruise to relax and enjoy the remainder of the day.
Overnight: Luxor
Day 7
TUE: Luxor's East Bank – Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple & the Avenue of Sphinxes
Discover the magnificent temples of Luxor's East Bank, where the grandeur of ancient Thebes is beautifully preserved.
Begin your visit at the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple Complex, the largest religious complex ever built in ancient Egypt. Wander through its monumental halls, towering columns, sacred lake, and magnificent obelisks while uncovering nearly two thousand years of pharaonic history.
Continue to the elegant Luxor Temple, a masterpiece built by Amenhotep III and later expanded by Ramses II. Admire its colossal statues, graceful colonnades, and remarkable architecture that has witnessed thousands of years of history.
Complete your experience with a stroll along the beautifully restored Avenue of Sphinxes, the ancient ceremonial road connecting Karnak and Luxor Temples. Lined with hundreds of sphinx statues, this spectacular avenue once hosted the grand Opet Festival and today offers one of Egypt's most impressive archaeological walks.
Overnight: Luxor
Day 8
WED: From Luxor to Kharga Oasis – Gateway to the Western Desert
Leave the ancient temples of Luxor behind and set out on a scenic journey into Egypt's magnificent Western Desert, where breathtaking landscapes and timeless oases await.
As you travel through the vast desert, watch the scenery gradually transform from the fertile Nile Valley to endless golden plains, offering a unique glimpse into one of Egypt's most untouched regions. Enjoy the peaceful drive and the ever-changing desert panoramas before arriving at Kharga Oasis, the largest of Egypt's southern oases.
Upon arrival, take in the tranquil atmosphere of the oasis and relax as you prepare for the exciting desert adventures that lie ahead.
Overnight: Kharga Oasis
Day 9
THU: Into Egypt's Western Desert – Journey to Kharga Oasis
Leave the fertile Nile Valley behind and venture into the vast landscapes of Egypt's Western Desert, where a new chapter of discovery begins. As the scenery transforms from green fields to endless golden horizons, experience the timeless beauty and tranquility of the desert.
Arrive at Kharga Oasis, the largest and most important of Egypt's southern oases, where civilizations have flourished for thousands of years along ancient caravan routes.
Begin your exploration at the remarkable Temple of Hibis, the only major temple in Egypt dating to the Persian Period. Built during the reign of Darius I and dedicated to the Theban Triad—Amun, Mut, and Khonsu—its beautifully carved sandstone walls and columns offer a fascinating glimpse into one of Egypt's lesser-known historical eras.
Continue to the extraordinary Necropolis of El Bagawat, one of the oldest and best-preserved Christian cemeteries in the world. Wander among its distinctive mudbrick domed chapels, where remarkably preserved frescoes and biblical scenes reveal the spiritual life of Egypt's early Christian communities.
As the sun sets over the tranquil oasis, embrace the peaceful atmosphere that marks the beginning of your unforgettable journey through Egypt's magnificent Western Desert.
Overnight: Kharga Oasis
Day 10
FRI: Discovering Dakhla Oasis – Al Qasr Islamic Village
Continue your journey deeper into Egypt's magnificent Western Desert as you arrive at the lush Dakhla Oasis, a fertile haven that has welcomed travelers and caravans for thousands of years.
Explore the beautifully preserved Al Qasr Islamic Village, a remarkable medieval settlement built almost entirely of mudbrick. Wander through its narrow, winding alleyways, where traditional houses, ancient mosques, and beautifully carved wooden doors create an atmosphere that seems untouched by time. Once an important stop along the historic caravan routes, Al Qasr offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily life, architecture, and traditions of Egypt's desert communities.
As evening falls over the peaceful oasis, soak in the unique charm of this timeless desert sanctuary before continuing your adventure through the Western Desert.
Overnight: Dakhla Oasis
Day 11
SAT: Farafra Oasis & The Enchanting White Desert
Today, continue your adventure south to the peaceful Farafra Oasis, gateway to one of Egypt's most extraordinary natural wonders.
Journey into the breathtaking White Desert National Park, where millions of years of wind and sand have sculpted dazzling white limestone formations into surreal shapes resembling mushrooms, towering pillars, giant animals, and other remarkable natural sculptures. This unique landscape creates one of the most spectacular desert panoramas in the world.
As the day draws to a close, witness the desert transformed by the golden light of sunset before experiencing the unforgettable tranquility of this untouched wilderness. Far from city lights, the White Desert offers an extraordinary opportunity to admire a sky filled with countless stars, creating an atmosphere of complete serenity and wonder that few places on Earth can match.
Overnight: Farafra Oasis
Day 12
SUN: Bahariya Oasis, the Black Desert & Return to Cairo
As your remarkable journey through Egypt's Western Desert comes to an end, enjoy one final day discovering the unique landscapes of Bahariya Oasis before returning to Cairo.
Explore the lush Bahariya Oasis, a peaceful haven of palm groves, natural springs, and fertile gardens that has welcomed travelers for centuries. Continue to the dramatic Black Desert, where ancient volcanic hills rise from the golden sands, creating one of Egypt's most distinctive and unforgettable desert landscapes.
Take in the final panoramic views of the vast wilderness before beginning your comfortable drive back to Cairo, reflecting on an extraordinary adventure through remote oases, ancient temples, medieval villages, and some of the most breathtaking desert scenery in the world.
Arrive in Cairo in the evening, bringing to a close an unforgettable expedition across Egypt's timeless Western Desert.
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
- 11 nights' accommodation in carefully selected 3★ hotels or similar:
- 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