EXTENDED EGYPT HIGHLIGHTS
Premium Tour / Nile Cruise / Red Sea
Starts: Cairo / Ends: Sharm El Sheikh
16 DAYS
Tour Start Date: August 30th 2025
Tour End Date: September 14th 2025
Fully escorted by Australian Tour Leader and local Egyptologist Tour Guide
AUD $7355.00 pp twin share
Single supplement additional AUD $1399.00
GUARANTEED DEPARTURE
Immerse yourself in everything Egyptian, then finish in paradise.
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey and indulge in the grandeur of ancient Egypt with our exclusive 16 day Premium Tour..
Some of our highlights include:
Ancient Attractions
Starting in Egypt’s capital, Cairo, we’ll explore the iconic landmarks starting with the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx. Next, visit the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), showcasing priceless treasures. We’ll also visit the vibrant streets of the Khan El Khalili Market as well as the Coptic Christian and Islamic sectors of the city.
Aswan stay and Nile Cruise
Spend 2 luxurious nights in Aswan, (known as the “jewel of the Nile”) staying on Elephantine Island. You’ll be treated to spectacular sunsets while watching feluccas sail along the River Nile. We’ll also get the chance to sail ourselves, with a visit to a local Nubian village. Plus, experience the grandeur of Abu Simbel on an all day optional tour.
Then it’s time to board your 3 night Nile cruise with full board and nightly entertainment. Stops include Kom Ombo Temple., Luxor Temple and the Karnak sound and light show. Finish at the famous Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut Temple before flying to the ever popular Red Sea location of Sharm El Sheikh.
Sinai Peninsula with Red Sea
Nestled between the Sinai mountains and the Red Sea, Sharm El Sheikh is a world class resort area known for its diving and snorkeling opportunities. You’ll be staying in 5 star luxury with all-inclusive access.
Enjoy guided snorkel trips straight off the beach and also by boat, swimming at the turquoise Magic Lake and exploring the famous Ras Mohammed National Park. Wander the Old Market for gold and unique souvenirs and trek up the majestic Mount Sinai if you’re game (all optional). We also have guests who love to relax on the beach or next to the pool, get a massage and do next to nothing. The choice is yours.
“Everything you could imagine and more.”
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDED
Grand Egyptian Museum
Ancient Attractions
Nile Cruise - 3 nights
Sharm El Sheikh - all inclusive
Itinerary details
Use the drop down arrows to show the itinerary for each day.
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Welcome to the land of pharaohs & the world’s most historic destination, Egypt.
You’ll be met by our airport representative who will help you through airport procedures, before being transferred to your hotel for the evening. Free time for the remainder of the day.
Overnight: Sonesta Hotel (or similar) 5 star
Meals: Breakfast
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Pyramids of Giza
Built for some of the mightiest Pharoahs, the Great Pyramids of Giza are undoubtedly the most famous ancient wonder in the world. These colossal structures continue to captivate visitors with their grandeur and ongoing mystery. We’ll spend enough time here to fulfill your bucketlist dreams and finish with a short camel ride in order to grab some incredible shots as a memento of your time here.
Great Sphinx
The Great Sphinx stands tall, guarding the Giza Plateau in Egypt. Carved over 4,500 years ago, this mythical creature has the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh.
Sakkara Step Pyramid
Located 27 km on the outskirts of Cairo, is Sakkara. This remarkable complex includes the Step Pyramid of Djoser and the undergrounds tombs which we will visit. You’ll also see plenty of hieroglyphics that adorn the walls of the complex throughout.
ABSOLUTE BONUS: Step inside Djoser Pyramid
Step inside the corridors of the Djoser Pyramid. Recently reopened after extensive works, go where very few have been.
Overnight: Sonesta hotel (or similar) 5 star
Meals: Breakfast
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Grand Egyptian Museum
Step back in time and explore the wonders of ancient Egypt .
The GEM is without doubt Egypt's longest awaited attraction, being 20 years in the making. Here, for the first time you will have the opportunity to visit with your guide which will include access to the following areas:
Tour Highlights:
Main Galleries
Opened exhibit halls
Hanging Obelisk
Statue of King Ramesses II
10 Statues of Senusret
Victory Column of Merenpetah
Ptolemaic King and Queen Statues
Grand Staircase Gallery
National Museum of Civilization
The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization showcases Egypt's rich heritage, covering prehistoric to present-day periods. Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by an array of artifacts dating back thousands of years. From monumental statues of pharaohs to intricate hieroglyphic inscriptions, each display tells a captivating story of Egypt's past. The museum also boasts a remarkable collection of mummies and burial objects, shedding light on the ancient Egyptian beliefs surrounding the afterlife
Khan El Khalili Market
Nestled within the vibrant streets of the historic Islamic Cairo district lies an enchanting world of colors, scents, and cultural treasures. The Khan el-Khalili Bazaar is a bustling, vibrant market that has been around for centuries. Famous for its gold souks, visitors can shop for unique pieces and souvenirs through its whimsical laneways. Bartering is expected here, but we’ll happily help you negotiate a fair price if you prefer.
Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.
Overnight: Sonesta Hotel (or similar ) 5 star
Meals: Breakfast
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Coptic Cairo
Coptic Cairo is a neighborhood brimming with rich history and remarkable heritage. This iconic district is home to the renowned “Hanging Church”, known as Saint Virgin Mary's Church, with its unique suspended position and intricate Coptic artwork.
Citadel of Saladin
Constructed by Salah al-Din on the Moqattam Hills in 1183 AD as a defense against Crusader armies, the Citadel is now a preserved historic site of mosques and museums, including the Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha. Its commanding position high above greater Cairo, offers impressive sweeping views of the city and beyond.
ABSOLUTE BONUS - Cave Church
Our final visit of the day is a special one, not visited by many tour companies. The Cave Church is one of the largest churches not only in Egypt but also in the Middle East. The Cave Church is located in an area known as the Zabbaleen city, meaning literally ‘garbage city’. This city has the largest population of garbage collectors and recyclers in Cairo.
Overnight: Sonesta Hotel (or similar) 5 star
Meals: Breakfast
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Located along the banks of the Nile River, and home to many archaeological sites, Aswan is a place of incredible beauty. This captivating jewel is an oasis of rich red sunsets and golden sands encompassing the lush farmland along the rivers edge. We’ll be here for the next two nights enjoying every drop of resplendent charm.
Felucca Sailing
There is no better way to embrace the beauty of the Nile River than on a traditional wooden sailing boat known as a felucca. Sit back and take the tranquil surroundings as you gently glide through the water. We’ll include a stop at a traditional Nubian village where you’ll have a chance to experience local culture.
Note: Bring your bathers if you want to enjoy a dip in the Nile.
Nubian Village
Discover the fascinating Nubian Villages situated at the bottom of Elephantine Island. Stroll through alleyways and discover the simple and natural life of the people that populate them. You will get to visit a Nubian family home and try some local delicacies before setting sail to our hotel, and home for the night.
Overnight: Movenpick Resort (or similar) 5 star
Meals: Breakfast
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Abu Simbel
It’s an early start today as we make our way by coach to one of Egypt’s most sought out attractions. Abu Simbel is a famous UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its colossal rock-cut temples. Built by Ramses II, these iconic structures stand as a testament to ancient Egyptian civilization, attracting visitors worldwide with their impressive architecture and rich historical significance. The two colossal temples greeting visitors are dedicated to Pharaoh himself and his beloved wife, Queen Nefertari.
Aswan High Dam
On our way back to Aswan city, we’ll make a stop to the impressive Aswan High Dam. This remarkable engineering feat was built to control the Nile River's flow, provide electricity, and increase agricultural productivity in the region, contributing to Egypt's economic development.
The rest of the afternoon is free time.
Optional Tour Cost USD $150 pp
Overnight: Movenpick Resort or similar (5 star)
Meals: Breakfast
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Philae Temple
Jump aboard a motor boat for the short journey to Philae Temple on the island of Agilkia. Dedicated to the goddess Isis, the temple is a testament to Egypt's rich cultural heritage. You’ll hear stories from your Egyptologist guide amidst stunning columns and intricate hieroglyphics that adorn the walls throughout. Rescued from the rising waters of Lake Nasser, the temple was moved to its present location, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
Cruising
From here, we make our way to our River Boat around midday for the next three nights. It’s a new adventure, cruising toward the iconic city of Luxor.
CRUISE MS Nile Style or similar (5 star)
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Enjoy a sleep in this morning. You’ll have free time to explore the boats amenities, relax by a picture window or sit up on the sun deck around the pool.
Kom Ombo Temple
Visit the Temple dedicated to both Sobek the crocodile god and Haroeris the hawk. Kom Ombo temple stands on a promontory at a bend in the Nile, where in ancient times sacred crocodiles basked in the sun on the river bank.
CRUISE MS Nile Style (or similar) 5 star
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Esna Lock
We continue north towards Luxor, passing through the engineering marvel of Esna Lock. As our boat enters the lock, the gates will be closed behind us, allowing the water level in the lock to adjust to match the level of the river downstream. Once the water level is equalized, the boat can pass through and continue its journey down the river. Be sure to make your way up on the roof deck to capture the moment.
Luxor Temple by dusk
Enjoy a walk around Luxor Temple as the sun goes down and the walls of the temple are lit up. Located on the east bank of the Nile River, Luxor Temple reigns supreme as one of Egypt's most extraordinary archaeological gems built over 3,000 years ago. Marvel at the soaring columns and colossal statues, adorned with intricate hieroglyphics and reliefs depicting scenes from ancient Egyptian mythology and history. The Avenue of Sphinxes, stretching over a mile in length, connects Luxor Temple to its sister temple, Karnak.
Karnak Temple Sound & Light Show
This evening you will visit the worlds largest open air museum. Built over more than a thousand years by generations of Pharaohs, the great “Hypostyle Hall” is an incredible forest of giant pillars and one of Egypt’s more prized attractions. This spectacular complex comprises of sanctuaries, kiosks, pylons and obelisks. Simply put, everything here is on a gigantic scale.
Show time is approx 75 minutes.
CRUISE: MS Nile Style or similar (5 star)
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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This morning we disembark our cruise in Luxor. We are heading for the azure waters of the Red Sea, but not before we visit one of Egypt’s most famous sites.
Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Kings, located on the west bank of the Nile River in Egypt, is an ancient burial ground that served as the final resting place for pharaohs and powerful nobles of the New Kingdom era. Spanning over 500 years, from the 16th to the 11th century BCE, it contains around 63 tombs, including Tutankhamun's famous tomb. These tombs were carved into the rock and adorned with intricate paintings and hieroglyphics. Discovered in the 18th century, the Valley of the Kings remains a significant archaeological site, giving us valuable insights into the ancient Egyptian burial customs and beliefs.
Hatshepsut Temple
Next, it’s on to Hatshepsut Temple. This magnificent ancient structure is in honour of the powerful female pharaoh, Queen Hatshepsut.
FLIGHT TO SHARM EL SHEIKH
Tonight we transfer to the airport for our short flight to the popular seaside resort area of Sharm El Sheikh. We’ll be here for the next 7 nights for sun, fun, relaxation and more adventure.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Due to unreleased flight schedules by Egypt Air - we may do one of the following options:
Option 1: Spend an additional night in Luxor.
Option 2: Fly to Cairo for an overnight stay, followed by a flight to Sharm El Sheikh the next morning.
Option 3: Fly to Sharm El Sheikh via Cairo.
We will confirm the exact itinerary based on the flight schedule released by EgyptAir. Our intention is to fly to Sharm El Sheikh (option 3)
Overnight: Reef Oasis (or similar) 5 star
Meals: Breakfast
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Enjoy the next week in a paradise for sun lovers and underwater enthusiasts. Sharm El Sheikh is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, outdoor restaurants, shopping bazaars, and night life, making it a premier spot to visit day and night.
Our home for the next week is at a 5 star resort with all inclusive access.
Featuring 5 buffet restaurants plus various cafes, 10 bars, 10 pools, an aqua park, dive centre, and nightly entertainment.
Overnight: Reef Oasis (or similar) 5 star
Meals: All inclusive (includes all meals, selected alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks)
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Full Day Boat Tour - Red Sea
Embark on an unforgettable Red Sea boating day from Sharm El Sheikh. Sailing across the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea, this excursion will take you to a pristine paradise. Explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with exotic marine life as you snorkel in the warm waters. Dive into a world of colourful fish, majestic turtles and graceful rays. Enjoy lunch on board as part of your tour.
Interested in DSD (Discover Scuba Dive)? Let us know if you would like to add this additional activity.
Overnight: Reef Oasis (or similar) 5 star
Meals: All inclusive (includes all meals, selected alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks)
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Ras Mohammed Marine Park
Swim and snorkel the Ras Mohammed Marine Park at the tip of the Sinai Peninsula. This vibrant aquatic sanctuary is teeming with biodiversity. With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and awe-inspiring marine life, it offers visitors a truly unforgettable experience in one of Egypt’s most breathtaking natural wonderlands.
Old Market
The Old Market in Sharm El Sheikh is a vibrant hub of traditional Egyptian culture and shopping. With its bustling bazaars, authentic handicrafts, and aromatic spices, it offers visitors a unique and immersive experience.
You’ll also get a chance to see the impressive Sahaba Mosque, a standout piece of architecture in the centre of town.
Overnight: Reef Oasis (or similar) 5 star
Meals: All inclusive (includes all meals, selected alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks)
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Today is yours to enjoy. Spend time around the pool, hit the beach or sit back and read a book before we head out for the evening.
Mount Sinai
Take on the mountain, and walk in the footsteps of Moses.This biblical location is known to be the place where Moses received the Ten Commandments. Departing early evening, this tour will provide transfers to the base on Mount Sinai. The 3 to 4 hour climb (approx 8 km) winds its way up steadily through the night along with your Bedouin Guide. Upon reaching the summit, you will pay witness to one of the most surreal sunrises on earth, before making your way back down the mountain.
Important note: this tour is deemed physically demanding. Participants will need a moderate degree of fitness. You will have the option to summit via a camel ride (additional cost) to a point of climbing the remainder 750 + steps to the top.
Located at the base of Mount Sinai is the oldest working Christian monastery in the world. Established in the 6th century, it is named after Saint Catherine of Alexandria. The monastery houses a vast collection of religious manuscripts, including the famous Codex Sinaiticus, one of the oldest surviving complete manuscripts of the Bible.
The tour takes approx 15 hours and returns to your accommodation around mid afternoon the following day.
Overnight: Reef Oasis (or similar) 5 star
Meals: All inclusive (includes all meals, selected alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks)
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Mount Sinai Return
For those on the Mount Sinai tour - you will arrive back at the hotel around mid afternoon - rest of the day free
For the rest of group who did not participate, your last day in paradise if free to relax at the beach or around the pool.
Overnight: Reef Oasis (or similar) 5 star
Meals: All inclusive (includes all meals, selected alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks)
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This morning after breakfast we say a final farewell, having made incredible memories and fond friends. You will be transferred to the Sharm El Sheikh International airport for your flight out.
Meals : Breakfast
Inclusions
Egyptologist guide + Australian Tour Leader
Airport pick up with transfers
All sightseeing listed in itinerary
Tipping (as per itinerary)
4 to 5 star hotels
15 breakfasts / 8 lunches / 8 dinners
Internal flight / coach touring / cruise
Exclusions
Abu Simbel Tour USD $150 pp
International flights
Visa
Any meals not listed in itinerary
Optional activities in Sharm El Sheikh
Anything else not exclusively listed
Pyramids of Giza
Khan El Khalili Market
Hatshepsut Temple
Aswan - Nile River
Valley of the Kings
Sharm El Sheikh, Red Sea
Mel: Australian Tour Leader
Mina: Australian Based Egyptian Tour Leader
Claim your FREE phone consultation here
Chat with us today. Simply fill in the form and Mel or Mina from Absolute Egypt Tours will call you at your preferred time.
Important Information
Minimum Age - 6 years
This tour is suitable for ages 6 +
PAYMENT SCHEDULE
Non refundable deposit of AUD $500 required at time of booking. 25% overall cost required within 30 days. (if more than 150 days prior to travel) Final payment due 150 days prior to travel.
Note: all bookings within 8 months of travel - a 25% deposit is required of which $500 is non refundable.
Fitness level
This tour is considered moderate. Guests should be able to walk at least 2 to 3 km in one session, and be able to navigate stairs and uneven surfaces. Hot weather and prolonged standing may impact these requirements.
No guest matching
Unfortunately, we do not offer a hotel pairing for single travellers. We do however, offer a competitive single supplement rate.
Baggage allowance
For group tours - Baggage allowance on all our domestic flights is 23 kg. Your carry on allowance is 7 kg.
This allowance also applies for flights from Cairo, Egypt to Amman, Jordan booked by us.
Travel insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is compulsory on all our tours. This should cover cancellation, medical expenses, repatriations and additional expenses. We strongly suggest you purchase insurance as soon as you start making payments toward your tour. We will ask you to provide insurance details prior to departure.
Tour minimum numbers
In order to guarantee our tours, we require a minimum of 6 passengers. If by chance we do not meet this minimum, any deposits or payments submitted will be fully refunded.
Medical Requirements
It is important to let us know in your booking form, your medical requirements and needs. All guests must be able to manage their own medical requirements. Please note we cannot act as an aide to your medical requirements.
Dietary Requirements
You can submit your dietary requirements in your booking form. We will pass these requirements on to hotel staff and help you find suitable options on the go.
Being part of a team
It is important that all our guests understand that this a “group” tour and be willing to act as ‘team players’ so not to disrupt the dynamics of the entire group. If at any stage a guest is acting highly inappropriate, speaking in inappropriate or derogative language, or highly disrupting the group, we reserve the right to ask the guest/s to leave without any compensation toward onward travel or change of travel plans.
Click the link for our full T’s & C’s
Cancellations and refund Policy