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8-Day Budget Egypt Tour: Cairo, Nile Cruise & Train

8 days$917USD from / per person sharing a double room
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Tour Facts

Experience Egypt on an affordable 8-day student-friendly adventure combining Cairo sightseeing, a Nile cruise and an overnight train journey. Visit the Pyramids, ancient temples and major attractions while keeping your Egypt trip budget-friendly.

Tour Name
8-Day Budget Egypt Tour: Cairo, Nile Cruise & Train
Duration
8 days
Tour Type
Family
Start Location
Cairo
End Location
Cairo
Main Attractions
The Pyramids of Giza (opens in a new tab)Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) (opens in a new tab)The Valley of the Kings (opens in a new tab)Temple of Hatshepsut (opens in a new tab)Temple of Edfu (opens in a new tab)Kom Ombo Temple (opens in a new tab)Unfinished Obelisk & High Dam Aswan (opens in a new tab)The Colossi of Memnon (opens in a new tab)
Optional Excursions
Karnak Temple Complex (opens in a new tab)Luxor Temple (opens in a new tab)Philae Temple Aswan (opens in a new tab)Abu Simbel Temples (opens in a new tab)
Nile Cruise
Yes
Guide Type
English Guide
Transportation
2 nights Sitting Train NO meals · All transfers in private air-conditioned vehicles
Accommodation Category
See the accommodation details for each pricing option
Price from
917 USD per person

Destinations

CairoGiza PyramidsLuxorAswan

Package starting prices

USD per person sharing a double room

Essentials
917 USD per person
Signature
986 USD per person
Luxury
1,055 USD per person
Compare packages and room rates
Experience Egypt on a Budget with an Amazing 8-Day Adventure Discover the highlights of ancient Egypt without the cost of a luxury tour on this 8-day budget student adventure. This carefully planned Egypt itinerary combines the iconic Pyramids of Giza and Great Sphinx, the treasures of Cairo, an overnight sitting train journey from Cairo to Luxor, and a memorable Nile Cruise from Luxor to Aswan. Traveling by sitting train makes this tour a practical choice for students, young travelers, backpackers and budget-conscious visitors who want to experience more of Egypt while keeping transportation costs lower. Along the way, explore the ancient royal tombs of the Valley of the Kings, the magnificent Temple of Hatshepsut, the monumental temples of Karnak, Edfu and Kom Ombo, and the highlights of Aswan. With private sightseeing, an English-speaking Egyptologist and carefully selected budget accommodation, this tour gives you an authentic Egypt experience at an affordable price.
Book Your Budget Student Egypt Adventure Experience the Pyramids of Giza, ancient temples, royal tombs and the Nile without paying for a luxury-style itinerary. Our Budget Student Adventure is designed for travelers who want to see the best of Egypt, travel by sitting train, cruise the Nile and enjoy private guided sightseeing while keeping the overall trip affordable. Ready to Adventure Egypt?Contact Explore Plus Holidays to check availability, cruise options and the best budget package for your travel dates.

Tour Overview

Country

Egypt

Duration

8 days

Starts

Cairo

Ends

Cairo

Age Range

6+

Arrival Transfer

Yes

Departure Transfer

Yes

Tour Guide

English Guide

Hotel Rating

Meals Included

B 7, L 3, D 3

Tour Style

Tour Style

Family

Trip Type

Private

Guiding Style

Guided

Tour Pace1/5
Physical Rating2/5

Best For

  • Travel between Cairo, Aswan and Luxor using sitting-class trains
  • Enjoy three nights cruising between Aswan and Luxor
  • Budget Student Egypt Tour
  • adventure with Giza Pyramids, sitting trains, Aswan, Abu Simbel, Nile Cruise
  • Students and budget-conscious travellers

Explore the Journey

Follow the 8-Day Budget Egypt Tour: Cairo, Nile Cruise & Train itinerary stop by stop

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Itinerary stops

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Tour Highlights

Designed for Students The itinerary focuses on keeping costs manageable while still covering Egypt's most important attractions. Sitting Train Travel Travel between Cairo, Aswan and Luxor using sitting-class trains rather than more expensive private flights or sleeper cabins. Nile Cruise Enjoy three nights cruising between Aswan and Luxor while visiting some of the most important temples along the Nile. Private Sightseeing Your sightseeing is organized with a private Egyptologist and private transportation. Egypt's Greatest Highlights From the Pyramids of Giza and Abu Simbel to the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple, the itinerary covers an impressive selection of ancient Egyptian sites. the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx iconic symbols of ancient Egypt. the Egyptian Museum in Cairo to see priceless artifacts, including King Tutankhamun’s treasures. Discover the ancient temples of Luxor and Karnak rich with history and impressive architecture. Experience traveling on a traditional sitting train offering a unique glimpse into local transportation. the bustling markets of Cairo such as the Khan El Khalili Bazaar, for shopping and cultural immersion. Enjoy guided tours with engaging, knowledgeable guides tailored for student travelers. Budget-friendly accommodations and meals designed to keep costs low while providing comfort.

Itinerary

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  1. Day 1: Arrival in Cairo
    Welcome to the Land of the Pharaohs! Your Egyptian adventure begins when you arrive at Cairo International Airport. Upon arrival, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Pickup details:
    • Upon your arrival at Cairo International Airport, our representatives will meet and assist you all through the formal procedures at Cairo International Airport.
    • Depending on your arrival time, you will meet your Egyptologist guide either on the same day or the following day. Your guide will explain the itinerary, sightseeing schedule and activities included in your tour, Discuss your travel interests with your guide.
    • Our philosophy at Explore Plus Holidays, we believe that traveling to Egypt should feel personal and welcoming. From your first arrival, our team is here to make your journey comfortable and enjoyable
    Feel at home with our team. Your guide can suggest optional excursions to other sights in Egypt. Our optional excursions are just recommendations to help our customers to see the most remarkable sightseeing. These excursions are optional; any additional costs are paid separately. Not wheelchair accessible. Dinner sailing cruise on the Nile Evening Optional Activity:
    • Enjoy a relaxing
    • Nile Dinner Cruise, featuring an open buffet, traditional Egyptian cuisine, live music, belly dancing, and the famous Tanoura (whirling dervish) show.
    Overnight Cairo hotel
    Overnight:
    Cairo hotel
    Meals:
    Welcome drink
    Visit:
    Optional activities
    Entrance Fees:
    None

    Arrival flight for Day 1

    Book to land in time for the first day of the tour.

    → CAI · pick your date

    Skyscanner Kayak Refine on our Flights page
  2. Day 2: Giza Pyramids & Cairo Highlights
    07:00 Breakfast 07:30 waiting for your Guide in lobby near reception 07:45 start with Guide and Private vehicle your tour Giza Pyramids Visit the world-famous Pyramids of Giza, one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites on Earth. Explore the three major pyramids:
    • Great Pyramid of Khufu
    • Pyramid of Khafre
    • Pyramid of Menkaure
    The Great Pyramid of Khufu is the largest pyramid at Giza and the only surviving monument of the ancient Seven Wonders of the World. Your Egyptologist will explain the history of the pyramid builders, the purpose of the monuments and the religious beliefs surrounding ancient Egyptian royal burials. Great Sphinx Continue to the magnificent Great Sphinx. The enormous limestone monument has the body of a lion and a human head and is traditionally associated with the Giza pyramid complex. Take photographs and learn about the history and mysteries surrounding this iconic monument. Cairo Highlights Depending on the available time and confirmed itinerary, continue with one of Cairo's major attractions, as OPTIONAL TOUR:
    • Egyptian Museum
    • Old Cairo
    • Khan El Khalili Bazaar
    The final sightseeing schedule will depend on the departure time of your train. Sitting Train from Cairo to Aswan Later, transfer to the Cairo railway station. Board your sitting-class overnight train to Aswan. This is an economical transportation option designed for students and budget travelers who want to reduce the cost of their Egypt adventure. The train journey is also an opportunity to experience everyday Egyptian travel as you travel south through the Nile Valley. Student Travel Note The sitting train provides regular passenger seating rather than a private sleeping cabin. It is therefore more basic than a sleeper train, but is an excellent option for travelers who prioritize budget and adventure. Overnight Sitting Train to Aswan 20:15 Transfer to Giza railway Station for Sitting train to Aswan, and overnight on board
    Overnight:
    Sitting train
    Meals:
    Breakfast
    Visit:
    Pyramids of Giza The Sphinx
    Train:
    Cairo/Aswan
  3. Day 3: Aswan Nile cruise
    Early Breakfast waiting for your Guide in Aswan railway station Meet your private guide and driver for Aswan tour, and begin your Nile Cruise adventure. Aswan High Dam Which has been erected by the Egyptian president Gamal Abdel Nasser in 1960 AD to protect Egypt from the Nile flood, generates hydroelectric power, and created Lake Nasser, one of the world's largest artificial lakes. Unfinished Obelisk Still attached to the bedrock in an ancient granite quarry, this enormous obelisk provides valuable insight into the stone-working techniques of the ancient Egyptians. Optional: Philae Temple (OPTIONAL TOUR) Dedicated to the goddess Isis, Philae Temple was relocated stone by stone to Agilkia Island after the construction of the High Dam. It is one of Egypt's most picturesque temple complexes. Overnight Nile Cruise Aswan to Luxor on FB
    Overnight:
    Nile Cruise Aswan
    Meals:
    B,L,D
    Visit:
    High Dam Unfinished Obelisk
  4. Day 4: Abu Simbel temple and Kom Ombo temple
    Breakfast on the cruise. Then the guide will take you in a mysterious journey to secrets of South. Optional Excursion to Abu Simbel Temples Breakfast box from your ship, you will be transferred by private A-C van to Abu Simbel. Today you have the opportunity to experience one of Egypt's greatest monuments. Optional Abu Simbel Temple Complex The journey from Aswan takes approximately three and a half hours each way by road. Upon arrival, discover the extraordinary temples of Abu Simbel, among the most impressive monuments built during the New Kingdom. The Great Temple was commissioned by Ramesses II and features enormous seated statues carved directly into the rock. A second temple was dedicated to Queen Nefertari. The temples demonstrate the power, ambition and artistic achievements of ancient Egypt and are considered among the country's most spectacular archaeological sites. After the visit, drive back to Aswan and rejoin the Nile Cruise. Kom Ombo Temple Continue sailing toward Kom Ombo. The Temple of Kom Ombo is unique because it was designed as a double temple dedicated to two deities. The southern side was associated with Sobek, the crocodile god, while the northern side was associated with Horus. The unusual symmetry of the temple reflects its dual religious purpose. After the visit, return to the ship and continue sailing toward Edfu. Overnight Nile Cruise Aswan to Luxor on FB
    Overnight:
    Nile Cruise sailing
    Meals:
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Visit:
    Kom Ombo temple
  5. Day 5: Edfu and sailing to Luxor
    Edfu Temple & Sail to Luxor Wake up aboard your Nile Cruise and enjoy breakfast as the ship continues toward Edfu. Temple of Horus at Edfu Visit the magnificent Temple of Horus at Edfu. Dedicated to the falcon-headed god Horus, Edfu is one of the most complete ancient Egyptian temples to survive. Construction took approximately 180 years, and the temple contains monumental pylons, courtyards, halls and beautifully preserved reliefs. Your guide will explain the mythology of Horus and the importance of the temple within ancient Egyptian religion. Return to the cruise and continue sailing toward Luxor. Luxor Arrive in Luxor, the ancient city of Thebes and one of Egypt's most important archaeological destinations. Enjoy lunch aboard the ship and time to relax. In the evening, you may choose an Optional: Luxor Temple or enjoy a walking tour around the city and its local market. Overnight Overnight Nile Cruise Aswan to Luxor on FB
    Overnight:
    Nile Cruise Luxor
    Meals:
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Visit:
    Edfu temple Luxor temple
  6. Day 6: West Bank tour and Karnak
    Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple & Colossi of Memnon Disembark after breakfast in Luxor. Very early breakfast, so will visit the West Bank, we may take a motor boat to save time Valley of the Kings The Valley of the Kings is one of the most famous archaeological sites in Egypt. Located on Luxor's West Bank, the valley became the royal burial ground for numerous New Kingdom pharaohs. Around 70 tombs were created within the valley, many decorated with colorful scenes, hieroglyphs and religious texts describing the journey into the afterlife. Among the famous royal burials are tombs associated with Ramesses III and Tutankhamun. Your Egyptologist will explain the beliefs and traditions surrounding ancient Egyptian burial practices. Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari Continue to the spectacular Temple of Hatshepsut. Built into the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari, the temple is one of Luxor's most distinctive architectural monuments. Hatshepsut was one of ancient Egypt's most remarkable rulers and one of the few women to rule as pharaoh. The temple's terraces, colonnades and dramatic setting make it one of the highlights of the Luxor West Bank. Colossi of Memnon Continue to the Colossi of Memnon, two enormous statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. The statues once stood in front of his enormous mortuary temple. Today, the colossal figures remain one of the most recognizable sights on Luxor's West Bank. Optional Karnak Temple Depending on the schedule, you may also choose an optional visit to Karnak Temple. Karnak is one of the largest religious complexes ever built and contains monumental gateways, temples, columns and sacred spaces constructed over many centuries. The Great Hypostyle Hall, with its enormous columns, is one of the complex's most impressive features. Overnight Sitting Train to Aswan After completing the sightseeing, transfer to Luxor Railway Station. Board your overnight sitting train back to Cairo. 18:20 Transfer to Luxor railway Station for Sitting train to Cairo, and overnight on board
    Overnight:
    Sittin Train
    Meals:
    Breakfast
    Visit:
    Valley of Kings Hatcjepsut temple Colossi of Memno
    Train:
    Luxor/Cairo
  7. Day 7: Arrival Cairo, Optional excursion
    Meet your representative at the railway station and transfer to your Cairo hotel. After checking in and relaxing, enjoy free time or choose an optional Cairo excursion. Optional Cairo Experiences Old Cairo Explore the historic area of Old Cairo, including important Christian and Islamic landmarks. Ben Ezra Synagogue Visit the historic Ben Ezra Synagogue in the Old Cairo area. Khan El Khalili Bazaar Explore Cairo's famous traditional market, filled with souvenirs, crafts, spices and local products. Egyptian Museum If the Egyptian Museum was not visited on Day 2, it can be arranged today depending on opening times and your departure schedule. Grand Egyptian Museum The Grand Egyptian Museum can also be requested according to availability and the confirmed sightseeing schedule. Optional Nile Dinner Cruise End your Egypt adventure with an evening cruise on the Nile featuring dinner and traditional entertainment. Overnight Cairo hotel
    Overnight:
    Cairo hotel
    Meals:
    Breakfast
  8. Day 8: Departure
    You will enjoy one last breakfast in the magical Land of the Pharaohs Check out from your hotel and transfer to Cairo International Airport for your departure flight. Say Goodbye to the Pharaohs Book Your Budget Student Egypt Adventure See the best of Egypt without the price of a luxury tour. Travel from Cairo to Aswan by sitting train, cruise the Nile to Luxor, discover Abu Simbel, Kom Ombo and Edfu, explore the Valley of the Kings and Karnak, and return to Cairo by train. Contact Explore Plus Holidays to check your travel dates, cruise availability and the best budget package for your Egypt adventure.
    Overnight:
    Flight Home
    Meals:
    Breakfast

    Return flight after Day 8

    Departure flights for the last day of your itinerary.

    CAI → · pick your date

    Skyscanner Kayak Refine on our Flights page

Your Daily Details

Request your personalized itinerary for all 8 days of 8-Day Budget Egypt Tour: Cairo, Nile Cruise & Train, a downloadable PDF brochure and a private My Egypt Journey page to contact your Explore Plus travel expert.

Pricing

Choose the package you want — the price updates and you can pay for it right away.

Choose this package to see the hotels and Nile cruise included in it — they appear right below.

Essentials

$917 / per person

$400 per child · single room +$361

  • 4-star hotels
  • 5-star Nile Cruise
  • Sitting train to Cruise
Most popular

Signature

$986 / per person

$493 per child · single room +$361

  • 5-star hotels
  • 5-star Nile Cruise
  • Sitting train to Cruise

Luxury

$1,055 / per person

$527 per child · single room +$409

  • 5-star hotels
  • 5-star Nile Cruise
  • Sleeper train to Cruise

How much pay for Entrance Fees

Cost & Entrance Fees

Optional excursions are not included in the package. Excursion costs and entrance tickets are paid separately; the ticket amounts below do not include excursion costs.

  • Pyramids of Giza
    EGP
    700
    US$
    14
  • GEM Egyptian Museum
    EGP
    1590
    US$
    32
  • Unfinished Obelisk
    EGP
    220
    US$
    5
  • Abu Simbel temple
    Optional excursion
    EGP
    822
    US$
    17
  • Kom Ombo temple
    EGP
    450
    US$
    9
  • Edfu Temple
    EGP
    550
    US$
    11
  • Valley of the Kings
    EGP
    750
    US$
    15
  • Hatshepsut Temple
    EGP
    440
    US$
    9
  • Karnak temple
    Optional excursion
    EGP
    600
    US$
    12
  • Luxor temple
    Optional excursion
    EGP
    500
    US$
    10
  • Total Aprox
    EGP
    6622
    US$
    135
All listed entrance tickets per person (including optional visits)13,244 EGP269 US$

Guest Brief

Important Entrance Fee Information

Prices and update date

Prices shown were last checked on 1 October 2026. Entrance fees are subject to change; please confirm current rates before your visit.

Visitor categories

Fees may differ for Egyptian and foreign visitors. Reduced rates may be available for children, students, or other eligible visitors.

Student discounts

Discounts are not available at every site. Eligibility and accepted student ID vary, so students should bring valid identification and confirm requirements with the ticket office.

Optional tombs and attractions

Some sites require separate tickets for special tombs or areas. These tickets may have limited availability and additional fees.

What the fee covers

Unless stated otherwise, listed prices cover site admission only. They do not include transportation, guide services, meals, or optional activities.

Payment and currency

Payment options vary by site. Bring a payment method accepted locally, and check whether card payment is available.

USD conversions

Dollar amounts are estimates for reference only. The amount charged in EGP may differ because exchange rates change.

Opening hours and access

Opening times, visitor routes, and access to individual areas may change without notice. Check with the site or your tour provider before travelling.

Best Time to Visit

Average weather in the places this tour visits — pick the month that suits you best.

Recommended travel period
October to March

Cairo & Giza

Best: October to April

Tap any month to see its day / night temperature, rainfall and verdict (°C and °F).

Luxor

Best: October to March

Tap any month to see its day / night temperature, rainfall and verdict (°C and °F).

Aswan & Abu Simbel

Best: October to March

Tap any month to see its day / night temperature, rainfall and verdict (°C and °F).

PlaceDaily max temperature (°C)Monthly rainfall (mm)
Cairo & Giza24°C (75°F)3.4
Luxor28°C (82°F)0
Aswan & Abu Simbel30°C (86°F)0

Averages across the recommended months for each place.

Before You Travel to Egypt

A quick checklist for a smoother arrival and more comfortable sightseeing.

Choose the season that suits you

October to April is usually more comfortable for long sightseeing days. Summer can be very hot, especially in Luxor and Aswan, so plan lighter schedules, shade and water breaks.

Check entry rules before you fly

Visa eligibility depends on your passport and can change. Confirm your requirements through Egypt’s official e-Visa portal or the nearest Egyptian embassy before travel.

Carry Egyptian Pounds

Cards are useful at many hotels and larger businesses, but small EGP notes are practical for tips, small purchases and everyday services.

Use sealed bottled water

Drink sealed bottled water and keep extra water with you during sightseeing, particularly on warm days and longer excursions.

Dress for heat and local customs

Light, breathable clothing, comfortable shoes, sun protection and a light layer are useful. Modest clothing is respectful at mosques, churches and traditional communities.

Know when to bargain

Friendly bargaining is common in bazaars and souks. Prices in fixed-price shops, hotels, restaurants and official ticket offices are generally not negotiated.

Check Egypt’s official e-Visa portal

Distances from Cairo

How far the main destinations are from Cairo — road distance with typical drive time. Internal flights are shown where they save hours on the road.

DestinationKm
Cairo0 km / 0 mi
Giza Pyramids25 km / 16 mi
Luxor660 km / 410 mi
Aswan900 km / 559 mi

Approximate road distances and times in normal traffic. Longer journeys may be reached by a short internal flight.

Select a city

Cairo

Cairo is the starting point for these distances.

Approximate distances and normal travel times from central Cairo.

Visa Requirements for Egypt

Type your nationality to see what you need, then follow the steps below.

No visa needed (7)

Enter with a valid passport (6+ months validity).

Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Hong Kong, Macau

e-Visa or visa on arrival (61)

Apply online in advance (recommended) or obtain a visa on arrival if eligible. Current fees are shown on the official portal visa2egypt.gov.eg.

United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, Switzerland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Poland, Czech Republic, Greece, Cyprus, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Georgia, Armenia, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Peru, Colombia, India, China, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, South Africa, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkey, Serbia, Albania

Special rules (1)

Israeli passport holders: free 15-day entry stamp for South Sinai only (Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, St Catherine) via Taba. For Cairo, Luxor, Aswan or the Nile, a visa from an Egyptian embassy/consulate is required before travel.

UK, US and EU passport holders visiting only Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba or Taba receive a free entry stamp valid up to 15 days. Travel outside the permitted South Sinai area or a longer stay requires a visa.

Israel

Embassy visa required (17)

Apply at the nearest Egyptian embassy or consulate before travel; allow 2–4 weeks.

Travellers holding a valid (and in some cases previously used) visa from the Schengen area, UK, USA, Japan, Australia, New Zealand or Canada may obtain a tourist visa on arrival. Confirm with the official portal or your airline before travel.

Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Libya, Sudan, Somalia, Nigeria, Ghana, Ethiopia, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Philippines, Vietnam

How to apply for an e-Visa

  1. Check that your passport is valid for at least 6 months after arrival.
  2. Apply on the official portal visa2egypt.gov.eg (about 7 business days) — or buy on arrival if eligible.
  3. Print your approved e-Visa and carry it with your passport and return ticket.
  4. Show it at passport control on arrival in Egypt.
Official Egypt e-Visa portal

Rules can change — always confirm with the official portal or your Egyptian embassy before travel.

Daily Budget

Typical personal spending per person per day, on top of what the tour includes. Converted at today's rate (1 USD ≈ 48.5 EGP).

ExpenseUSDEGP
Street food meal (koshary, falafel)$2–$495–195 EGP
Sit-down restaurant meal$8–$20390–970 EGP
Bottled water & soft drinks (per day)$2–$495–195 EGP
Coffee or fresh juice$1.5–$475–195 EGP
Uber / taxi within the city$3–$8145–390 EGP
Tips for guides, drivers & staff (per day)$5–$10245–485 EGP
Souvenirs & small extras$5–$20245–970 EGP
Estimated daily total$26.5–$701,285–3,395 EGP

Tips for saving money

  • Carry small Egyptian pound notes (5–50 EGP) for tips and toilets.
  • Use Uber or Careem in Cairo and Alexandria — fixed prices, no haggling.
  • Eat where locals eat: koshary and ta'ameya are tasty and cost little.
  • Pay in EGP rather than USD — prices quoted in dollars are usually higher.
  • Haggle politely in markets; start around half the first price.
  • Buy water in supermarkets, not at monuments or hotels.
  • Withdraw from bank ATMs (CIB, NBE, Banque Misr) for the best exchange rate.

Prices are typical estimates and vary by city and season.

Nights You Will Stay

Pyramids or Nile-view rooms In Cairo vailable with an additional supplement, according to the original tour program. Sleeping train on half board You can upgrade your train from sitting to double cabin with Brakfast and Dinner Nile Cruise Stay aboard a 5-star superior / deluxe Nile Cruise on a full-board basis. Your guide accompanies you during the sailing days, with private sightseeing arrangements included.
  • Hotel: Cairo – 2 Nights
  • Sleeper Train: if Upgrade – 2 Nights
  • Nile Cruise: 3 Nights
  • Guide: private Egyptologist on all sightseeing days
  • Van: Private tour

Meals

The package includes Meals according to the supplied itinerary: Meal arrangements may vary slightly according to the final operational schedule.

Included

  • Breakfast: 5 breakfasts
  • Lunch: 3 lunches
  • Dinner: 3 dinners
  • Nile Cruise: Full board for 3 night.

Why Choose This Tour?

Budget Friendly → The itinerary uses a sitting train instead of a more expensive sleeper cabin, helping keep transportation costs down. Private Sightseeing → Although designed for budget travelers, the sightseeing remains private, giving you your own Egyptologist and private vehicle. Major Egypt Highlights → See the country's most famous ancient sites, from the Pyramids of Giza to the temples of Luxor and Aswan. Real Egyptian Travel Experience → The overnight train adds a local travel experience that many travelers remember as part of their Egyptian adventure. Flexible → Optional activities can be added according to your interests and budget. This makes the itinerary an exceptionally rich journey through the history, religion, architecture and culture of Egypt.

Top Attractions

Find me in this tour

Optional excursion — extra cost (transport, guide and entrance fees)

The Pyramids of Giza

Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)

Karnak Temple Complex

Optional excursion

Luxor Temple

Optional excursion

The Valley of the Kings

Temple of Hatshepsut

Temple of Edfu

Kom Ombo Temple

Unfinished Obelisk & High Dam Aswan

Philae Temple Aswan

Optional excursion

The Colossi of Memnon

Abu Simbel Temples

Optional excursion

Optional Excursions

Not included in the package price. Optional excursion — extra cost (transport, guide and entrance fees).

What's included & what's not

Tap an item to build your own package — remove what you don't need, add the extras you want, then send the summary with your inquiry.

Included (8/8)

What's Not Included

Additional Extras

Enhance your tour with these optional extras, helping you to get the most from your adventure

Extended your tour stay

If you wish to enjoy more time at your destination, extending your hotel stay or add hotel in Luxor or Aswan is easy. Notify Us Early. Inform us so we can check availability and secure your room for the additional nights with extra payment.

Up-grade Sleeper Train

Upgrading your hotel stay can enhance your travel experience with Nile view or Deluxe rooms, amenities, and services. Please send us so we will inform you extra cost, will be a little as you pay for your room already.

Upgrade your Nile Cruise

This means shifting from a standard 5-star vessel to Deluxe or Luxury tiers. Upgrades offer larger cabins, better dining, private balconies, and fewer crowds, of course not expensive as you paid for your stay already

Good To Know

Is this Egypt tour suitable for budget travelers?+
Yes. The itinerary is designed to provide a cost-effective way to experience Cairo, the Nile Valley and a Nile cruise.
Does the tour include train travel?+
Train travel is included when specified in the selected package. The exact route and seating or cabin category should be confirmed before booking.
What type of Nile cruise is included?+
The cruise ship depends on the selected departure and package. The exact ship and accommodation category should be confirmed before booking.
Are entrance fees included?+
Entrance fees vary according to the package. Check the tour inclusions carefully to see which tickets are included.
Can I upgrade the hotels or Nile cruise?+
Yes. Upgrades may be available depending on your preferred travel dates and availability.
Is the tour private or shared?+
Some land services may be private while train and cruise components can operate according to scheduled services. Your booking details specify each service.
Is the sitting train a sleeper train?+
No. It uses regular passenger seating. Travelers looking for more comfort can request a sleeper train upgrade when available.
How many nights are on the Nile Cruise?+
The itinerary includes 3 nights on the Nile Cruise, sailing from Aswan toward Luxor.
Is Abu Simbel included?+
Abu Simbel can be included according to the selected package. It should be clearly confirmed at the time of booking.
Is the Nile Cruise full board?+
Yes, the cruise portion is arranged on a full-board basis according to the confirmed cruise package.
Can I upgrade my accommodation?+
Yes. Budget Cairo hotels can be upgraded to a higher hotel category, subject to availability and additional cost.
Can I add more time in Cairo?+
Yes. Additional nights and optional Cairo sightseeing can be added before or after the main itinerary.
Why use the sitting train?+
The sitting train is one of the more economical ways to travel between Cairo, Aswan and Luxor. It helps reduce the overall cost of the tour.
Is this tour suitable for students?+
Yes. The itinerary is specifically designed as a budget-friendly option for students, backpackers and young travelers.
How much do you tip on a Nile cruise per day?+
We recommend $3 to $10 USD per traveller, per day for the ship's crew. You give it once at the end of your stay, in the tipping box or a sealed envelope, and it covers the crew collectively rather than each employee. Your private Egyptologist guide ($10 to $15 USD per person, per day) and your excursion drivers are tipped separately, directly, at the end of their service. Bellmen are separate too: $1 USD per bag at check-in and $1 USD per bag at check-out. Carry small Egyptian Pound (EGP) notes for micro-services during day tours.
Do I need an ISIC Student Card in Egypt?+
Yes, it is the best financial investment you can make for your trip. An official International Student Identity Card (ISIC) grants you a 50% discount on almost every single monument, temple, and museum entrance fee in Egypt. If you are under 30 and eligible, this card will literally save you hundreds of dollars over your trip.

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Signature package

$986 / per person · $493 / Children Under 12

$986 per adult

Offset your trip's carbon footprint and directly support Red Sea coral conservation & local Nubian artisan communities in Aswan.

Secure payment via PayPal

Travelers
adults (12+)
2
children (2–11)
0
Single rooms (+$361 each)
0

$986 / adults · $493 / children

Children aged 2–11. Max 2 per adult (4 for 2).

2 × $986 (adults (12+))$1,972
Total$1,972

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About this tour

Additional information

Confirmation

You receive written confirmation by email once your booking is accepted, usually within 24 hours.

Documents

A valid passport with at least 6 months' validity is required. We advise on visas for Egypt and Jordan before travel.

Pick-up

Airport and hotel transfers are arranged as listed in the itinerary; your guide meets you with a name sign.

Group size

Private departures run for your party only. Small-group departures are capped so everyone hears the guide.

Accessibility

Some archaeological sites involve uneven ground, steps and heat. Tell us about mobility needs and we adapt the pace.

Children

Family friendly. Child rates and car seats are available on request; infants usually travel free.

What to bring

Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, modest clothing for religious sites and cash for tips.

Insurance

Travel insurance covering medical care and cancellation is strongly recommended and is not included in the tour price.

Cancellation & refund policy

30 days or more before departure

100% refund

15 – 29 days before departure

50% refund

14 days or less before departure

No refund

  • • Cancellations must be sent in writing to explore@exploreplus.net; the date we receive your email is the cancellation date.
  • • Approved refunds are returned to the original payment method within 14 working days.
  • • Third-party costs already paid on your behalf (domestic flights, Nile cruise cabins, special-event tickets, visas) are non-refundable once issued.
  • • Date changes requested 15 days or more before departure are free of charge, subject to availability; inside 14 days they are treated as a cancellation.
  • • If we have to cancel your tour for reasons within our control, you receive a full refund or a free date change — your choice.

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