How to Plan Your 12-Day Cairo Tour to Pyramids, Luxor, Aswan, and Hurghada
If you are planning a trip to Egypt, a 12-day tour of the Pyramids, Luxor, Aswan, and Hurghada is the perfect way to explore the country’s unique blend of ancient history, culture, and stunning natural beauty. This tour begins in Cairo and includes visits to the Pyramids, Sphinx, and Valley temple, the Egyptian Museum, Saladin Citadel, Khan El Khalili bazaar, Abu Simbel temple, Luxor, Aswan, Nile River cruise, and Hurghada underwater world. Here’s a step-by-step guide to planning your ultimate 12-day Cairo tour.Step 1: Book Your Tour
The first step in planning your Cairo tour to Pyramids, Luxor, Aswan, and Hurghada is to book your tour online at GetYourGuide website. The tour is offered by an experienced tour operator that will take care of all the arrangements, including transfers, accommodations, meals, and entrance tickets to all visited attractions. Book the Tour HereStep 2: Check Your Visa and Health Requirements
Before traveling to Egypt, you need to ensure that you have all the necessary travel documents, including a valid passport, visa, and health certificate. Check with your embassy or consulate to find out the specific requirements for your country.Step 3: Pack Your Bag
When you are embarking on a 12-day Cairo tour to Pyramids, Luxor, Aswan, and Hurghada, you need to pack light, comfortable clothes and footwear suitable for warm weather. Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, and bottled water for the tour. Also, pack a bag for overnight stays, as you will be moving from one location to another during the trip.Step 4: Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Cairo
Upon your arrival in Cairo, a friendly tour representative will escort you to your hotel, where you can enjoy a welcome drink and relax after your journey.Day 2: Pyramids
After breakfast at your hotel, you head to explore the Great Pyramids Sphinx & Valley temple, where you can learn about the history of the ancient temples and kings. Enjoy lunch and move to see the Djoser Pyramid, the oldest of the pyramids still standing in Egypt. In the afternoon, the tour visits the famous Necropolis and Memphis Old kingdom’s capital. Meals: Breakfast and LunchDay 3: Cairo
After breakfast, the trip explores the Egyptian Museum, the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, sculptures, and mummies. Visit the Saladin Citadel, including Mohamed Ali Mosque, then move to Coptic Cairo to see the Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue. Later in the afternoon, you can explore Khan El Khalili, a vibrant open-air bazaar with traditional crafts, spices, and souvenirs. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDay 4: Aswan
On day four, depart Cairo on a flight to Aswan, a charming city located on the Nile River. After you arrive, your tour guide will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. The day is free to explore the city, or you can join an optional Abu Simbel temple tour to explore one of the most beautiful temples in Egypt. Meals: BreakfastDay 5: Nile River Cruise
Check out from your Aswan hotel and embark on a Nile River cruise boat that will take you on a journey cruise to Luxor for three days. Lunch will be served onboard as the ship sets sail. The tour takes in the stunning views of the Nile River banks and visits the Philae temple, the High Dam, and the unfinished Obelisk. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDay 6: Edfu & Kom Ombo Temples
Day six of the tour takes you to explore the ancient Edfu Temple, built during the Ptolemaic Dynasty. After lunch onboard cruise, the tour continues to the Kom Ombo Temple, dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek and the falcon-headed Horus. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDay 7: Luxor Temples
On day seven, the Nile cruise stops at Luxor, where you can explore the Valley of the Kings and see the remains of the great temples of Karnak and Luxor. The tour also includes a visit to the Colossi of Memnon and the temple of Queen Hatshepsut. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and DinnerDay 8: Luxor and Hurghada
After breakfast, you will disembark the Nile cruise and transfer to Hurghada, a famous beach resort destination located on the Red Sea coast. Enjoy some leisure time at the resort to explore the beautiful weather and underwater world of Hurghada. Meals: BreakfastDay 9-11: Hurghada Beach Resort
Days 9 to 11 are all about leisure time and relaxation at Hurghada beach resort. You can choose to spend your time exploring the Red Sea and trying to spot some rare creatures and marine life or take it easy and enjoy the beach and resort facilities. Meals: BreakfastDay 12: Return to Cairo
On the final day of the tour, you will travel back to Cairo, where the tour ends. Depending on your flight schedule, you can opt for a leisure day in Cairo and explore the city on your own or take an optional day tour to the ancient city of Alexandria. Meals: BreakfastBook Your Tour Now
Planning a 12-day Cairo tour to Pyramids, Luxor, Aswan, and Hurghada can be a life-changing experience for anyone who loves ancient history, culture, and natural beauty. With this step-by-step guide, you can easily plan your trip, knowing that all the details are taken care of by an experienced tour operator. All you have to do is relax, have fun, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Happy traveling!
Frequently Asked Questions – Cairo
Cairo is a vibrant and bustling capital city located in the heart of Egypt. As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, it is a destination that draws millions of visitors every year. If you are planning a trip to Cairo, you likely have some questions about what to expect. Here are some frequently asked questions about Cairo, with answers to help you plan your trip.1. What is the best time of year to visit Cairo?
Cairo is a city that experiences hot and dry summers, with temperatures soaring over 35°C. The best time to visit Cairo is from November to March when the temperatures are mild, and the skies are clear. This is also the peak tourist season, so it is recommended that you book your accommodations in advance.2. What is the currency used in Cairo?
The local currency in Cairo is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). You can exchange your money at banks or currency exchange bureaus located throughout the city. It is recommended that you carry small bills with you when you are out and about in Cairo, as many places may not accept large bills.3. Is it safe to visit Cairo?
Cairo is generally safe for visitors, but it is recommended that you take some precautions to ensure your safety. Avoid walking alone at night or in unfamiliar areas, and be aware of your surroundings. It is also recommended that you dress conservatively, especially if you are a woman.4. What are the must-visit attractions in Cairo?
Cairo is home to some of the most iconic and historically significant sites in the world. The must-visit attractions in Cairo include the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, the Citadel, and the Khan El Khalili Bazaar.5. What should I wear when visiting Cairo?
Cairo is a conservative city, and it is recommended that visitors dress modestly. For women, it is recommended that you wear loose-fitting clothes that cover your arms and legs. Men should avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless shirts in public areas.6. Can I drink the tap water in Cairo?
It is not recommended that you drink the tap water in Cairo. Instead, it is recommended that you drink bottled water, which is widely available throughout the city.7. What is the cuisine like in Cairo?
Cairo is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, which features a mix of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and African influences. Some must-try dishes in Cairo include koshari, ful medames, and shawarma.8. What is the transportation like in Cairo?
Cairo has an extensive public transportation system, which includes buses, metro trains, and microbuses. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are also widely available. However, the traffic in Cairo can be notoriously congested, so it is recommended that you plan your transportation ahead of time.9. What is the language spoken in Cairo?
The official language of Egypt is Arabic, and it is the most commonly spoken language in Cairo. However, many people in Cairo also speak English, especially in tourist areas.10. How do I dress for a visit to the Pyramids?
It is recommended that you dress modestly when visiting the Pyramids, especially if you are a woman. Loose-fitting clothes that cover your arms and legs are recommended. Comfortable walking shoes are also a must as the ground around the Pyramids can be rocky and uneven.Book Your Tour Now
Cairo is a fascinating and beautiful city with a rich history and culture. By taking some common-sense precautions and planning your trip ahead of time, you can have an incredible visit to Cairo that you will never forget. Remember to respect the local customs and traditions, and take the time to discover all that this vibrant city has to offer.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Cairo
Egypt’s capital city, Cairo, is known for its rich history and culture that dates back centuries. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming for tourists to decide how to properly spend their time in this vibrant city. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step plan on how to get the most out of your visit to Cairo.Step 1: Visit the Pyramids of Giza
The Pyramids of Giza are undoubtedly one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Located on the outskirts of Cairo, they are a must-visit for any tourist. You can get there by taxi or bus, but we highly recommend hiring a tour guide to go with you. Tour guides know everything there is to know about the pyramids, including their rich history and hidden secrets. Once you get there, you’ll be blown away by the sheer size of these ancient structures. The Great Pyramid of Giza, which dates back to 2560 BC, is the largest of the three and is the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. You can even climb to the top of the pyramid for a breathtaking view of the surrounding desert.Step 2: Explore Islamic Cairo
Islamic Cairo is home to a wealth of historical buildings and landmarks, including mosques, madrasas, and mausoleums. Here are some must-visit places in Islamic Cairo:• The Citadel and Mosque of Salah El Din
The Citadel and Mosque of Salah El Din is a fortress located on a hill overlooking the city. It was built in the 12th century and served as the residence of the Egyptian rulers for centuries. The mosque located inside the citadel is known for its beautiful Ottoman-era architecture and stunning views of the city.• Al-Azhar Mosque
Al-Azhar Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Cairo, built in the 10th century. It is the most important mosque in the city, as it is the center of Islamic learning in Egypt. The mosque is known for its intricate design and stunning art, and it is a must-visit for anyone interested in Islamic history and culture.• Khan El Khalili
Khan El Khalili is a bustling bazaar that dates back to the 14th century. It is the perfect place to experience traditional Egyptian culture, as it is home to vendors selling everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and souvenirs.Step 3: Visit the Egyptian Museum
If you’re interested in Egyptian history, the Egyptian Museum is a must-visit. The museum houses an extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including the famous treasures of King Tutankhamun. The museum is massive, so we recommend hiring a tour guide to guide you through its exhibits.Step 4: Take a Nile River Cruise
A Nile River cruise is the perfect way to relax and take in the city from a different perspective. You can choose between a simple felucca ride or a more luxurious dinner cruise. Whichever option you choose, you’ll be able to see some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Cairo Tower, the Al-Azhar Mosque, and the television building.Step 5: Experience Traditional Egyptian Food
No visit to Cairo is complete without trying some of the delicious traditional Egyptian cuisine. Here are some Egyptian dishes that you must try:• Koshari
Koshari is a mix of pasta, lentils, chickpeas, and tomato sauce. It’s a popular street food in Cairo and a must-try for any foodie.• Ful Medames
Ful medames is a popular breakfast food in Egypt. It’s made with fava beans, lemon, and olive oil and served with bread.• Shawarma
Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish that consists of seasoned meat (usually chicken or beef) that has been cooked on a spit and then sliced. It’s typically served with vegetables and a tangy sauce.Book Your Tour Now
Cairo is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture that dates back centuries. With so many things to see and do, it can be overwhelming for tourists to decide where to go and what to do. By following this step-by-step plan, you’ll be able to experience the best that Cairo has to offer, from the ancient Pyramids of Giza to the bustling bazaars of Islamic Cairo. Remember to hire a tour guide to get the most out of your trip, and don’t forget to try some delicious traditional Egyptian cuisine.Table of Contents
