This is a complete, expertly designed 7-day introductory tour of Egypt’s essential sites.
Cairo · Luxor · Aswan
All logistics are handled.
Expert guidance is included.
Every day flows.
The Foundation Tour Itinerary
Day 1 — Cairo: Giza Plateau · Sphinx · Grand Egyptian Museum
Day 2 — Cairo: Saqqara · Egyptian Antiquities Museum (Tahrir)
Day 3 — Luxor: Morning flight · Karnak and Luxor Temples
Day 4 — Luxor: Abydos & Dendera (full day)
Day 5 — Luxor West Bank: Valley of the Kings · Hatshepsut · Medinet Habu · Colossi
Day 6 — Luxor → Aswan: Esna · Edfu · Kom Ombo
Day 7 — Aswan: Philae · Tour concludes
What’s Included
• Licensed Egyptologist guide throughout
• All site entry tickets and permits
• Private, air-conditioned ground transport
• Airport arrival and departure transfers
This itinerary is a foundation. Most travellers adapt it
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 7 days enough for Egypt?
Of course not – Egypt has an inexhaustible array of interesting sights to see and things to experience. But yes — for a first visit, 7 days is an excellent introduction. This itinerary focuses on Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan at a comfortable pace, without trying to do too much. Many of my clients choose to extend their visit once they see how much more there is.
Do I need domestic flights?
Yes. A short domestic flight from Cairo to Luxor is the most efficient use of time and avoids long train journeys. I handle these as part of the planning if you wish.
Is a Nile cruise better than travelling overland?
It depends on your travel style. Overland travel allows more flexibility and can give you extra sightseeing time elsewhere, while a Nile cruise offers ease and scenery. If cruising, I only recommend the Luxor → Aswan direction.
Can I avoid shopping stops?
Absolutely. I design my itineraries without forced shopping stops. If you choose to visit a workshop or market, it’s because you’ve asked to because you want to buy specific items — not because it’s built into the day.
Can I choose my own hotel?
Yes, I can book any standard hotel you prefer and work with any loyalty programmes you are enrolled with.
Can private after-hours visits be arranged?
Yes. Subject to availability and permits, I can arrange private, after-hours access to sites such as the Great Pyramid, the Sphinx enclosure, and the Osirion at Abydos. But more than that, I can also arrange visits to any other closed site and even on-going archaeological digs such as currently ongoing at Taposiris Magna for the lost tomb of Cleopatra.
Can this itinerary be customised?
Yes. I’m happy to discuss dates, timings, and make adjustments, add or delete specific tours, change combos etc. once this tour is booked and the deposit is paid. If you’d like to explore changes before committing to the base tour, a Planning Pass is required.”
How would you like to travel?
(Choose one)
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⭕ Book this tour exactly as shown, pay the deposit, and discuss the itinerary in detail
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⭕ Use this tour as a base and refine the itinerary with a Planning Pass
Last updated on 23 Dec 2025