Wonders of the Pharaohs 5 stars
10-day guided itinerary through Egypt’s major Pharaonic sites with a 3-night 5* Nile cruise and a 2-night Red Sea beach stay in Hurghada. Designed for comfortable pacing with airport pickup, internal flights Cairo–Aswan and Hurghada–Cairo, and guided visits to major temples, tombs and museums.
In Collaboration with Innovation Tours Inc. Updated on September 16, 2026.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Innovation Tours Inc, inspired by the tour Wonders of the Pharaohs 5 stars. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Giza Pyramids & the Sphinx (Giza Plateau)
- Valley of the Kings & Deir el-Bahri (Luxor West Bank)
- Philae Temple (Aswan) via motorboat
- 3-night 5* Nile cruise (Aswan → Luxor)
- Beach break on the Red Sea in Hurghada
Explore all itineraries in Egypt.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Cairo. Airport meet & assist, transfer to hotel and evening briefing.
CAI Airport pickup and transfer to hotel, Cairo
Meet our representative at Cairo International Airport who will assist through arrival formalities and transfer you to your Cairo hotel. Briefing with your Egyptologist guide on the tour program once at the hotel.
Tips from local experts:
- Have one printed and one electronic copy of your arrival details and passport ready for the meeting with the representative.
- Request a ground-floor or elevator-access room at booking if mobility is a concern; mention this again at check-in.
- Carry a small bottle of water and any medication for the transfer; rest stops can be requested en route if needed.
Day 2
Full-day guided sightseeing at the Giza Plateau and Saqqara (Step Pyramid).
Giza Plateau: Great Pyramids & the Sphinx
After breakfast visit the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx at the Giza Plateau with your Egyptologist guide. Easy-paced visit with seating breaks and shaded stops where available.
- Monday8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Tuesday8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Wednesday8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Thursday8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and a sunhat; shaded seating is limited on the plateau.
- Bring small change for restroom facilities and water vendors; keep valuables in a secure bag.
- Ask your guide to schedule visits to viewpoints with benches so you can sit and rest while photos are taken.
Saqqara: Step Pyramid of Djoser
Short drive to Saqqara to see the Step Pyramid (Djoser) and surrounding necropolis. The visit is relatively low-walking but includes uneven ground.
- Monday8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Tuesday8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Wednesday8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Thursday8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Friday8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Saturday8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Sunday8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Tips from local experts:
- There are uneven paths around tombs—use sturdy shoes and request a slower pace if needed.
- Restroom and shaded seating are available near the site visitor area; take frequent short rests.
- Sunscreen is recommended; plan visits to the sheltered displays first during hottest hours.
Day 3
Flight to Aswan and visit to Philae Temple; embarkation on the Nile cruise.
Flight to Aswan and transfer to Philae Temple
Transfer to Cairo airport for the scheduled internal flight to Aswan. On arrival in Aswan transfer to the Nile and take a short motorboat ride to Philae Temple for a guided visit.
Tips from local experts:
- Internal flight times vary; keep carry-on essentials (medication, passport, hearing aids) with you for the short flight.
- Boat approaches involve steps—ask for assistance from your guide or crew if mobility is limited.
- Wear non-slip shoes for the boat and request shaded seating on the shore approach.
Embarkation: 5* Nile Cruise (Aswan)
Embark the 5-star Nile cruise mid-day. Time to settle into your cabin and enjoy the ship’s facilities. Overnight on board.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a cabin on a lower deck if stairs are difficult; inform the cruise staff in advance of mobility needs.
- Keep a small day-bag for shore visits containing water, sunscreen and any daily medications.
- Use embarkation time to confirm meal times, excursion pickup points and accessibility options with the cruise manager.
Day 4
Nile cruise sailing with an afternoon visit to Kom Ombo Temple.
Nile sailing and riverside scenery
Relax on deck as the cruise sails north from Aswan. Short stops for views of rural riverside life and transition time before the Kom Ombo visit.
Tips from local experts:
- Use shaded areas on deck and sit often; keep hydrated during the sailing sections.
- Inform staff if you need assistance to disembark for shore visits; crew can provide a ramp or help with steps.
- Carry a light layer for breezy conditions on deck during sailing.
Kom Ombo Temple visit
Guided visit to the twin temple of Kom Ombo located beside the Nile. The site has short walks and some uneven surfaces.
- Monday7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Tuesday7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Wednesday7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- There is limited shade on the temple terrace—bring a hat and sunscreen for comfort.
- Wear comfortable footwear for short uneven sections and stone steps.
- Ask your guide to position you near benches or shaded ledges for rests during the visit.
Day 5
Sail to Luxor and guided visits to Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple (East Bank).
Sail to Luxor (morning)
Morning sailing towards Luxor. Time to relax on board and enjoy the cruise facilities before afternoon East Bank visits.
- MondayOpen 24 hours
- TuesdayOpen 24 hours
- WednesdayOpen 24 hours
- ThursdayOpen 24 hours
- FridayOpen 24 hours
- SaturdayOpen 24 hours
- SundayOpen 24 hours
Tips from local experts:
- Plan restroom use before disembarkation; accessible facilities are available on board.
- Keep a copy of daily program from reception to confirm pick-up times for shore visits.
- Use the morning to rest and limit walking so you're energized for afternoon temple tours.
Karnak Temple (East Bank, Luxor)
Guided exploration of the immense Karnak Temple complex. The site is extensive but visits focus on the main avenues and hypostyle hall.
- Monday6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- The hypostyle hall has uneven flooring; use walking sticks or request a slower route if needed.
- Visit shaded colonnades first and avoid peak sun between 11:00–15:00 where possible.
- There are rest areas near the ticketing zone—take breaks and use available seating frequently.
Luxor Temple and Avenue of Sphinxes
Short visit to Luxor Temple in the evening light. The avenue and temple have limited stairs but are well-lit for comfortable walking.
- Monday6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Evening visits are cooler—bring a light layer for the riverside breeze.
- Seating is available near the temple forecourt; request bench stops if needed.
- Carry a small flashlight if mobility requires extra visibility on uneven surfaces.
Day 6
West Bank sightseeing in Luxor (Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut, Colossi) then A/C bus transfer to Hurghada.
Valley of the Kings (West Bank)
Morning guided visit to selected tombs in the Valley of the Kings. Visits include limited walking and some descent into tomb interiors.
- Monday6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Tomb interiors are cool but require stairs/ramps—ask the guide to choose tombs with easier access if needed.
- Carry a small cushion or request seating breaks after stair descents where possible.
- Photography rules vary—listen to the guide and avoid lengthy queues by pacing the group.
Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut (Deir el-Bahri) and Colossi of Memnon
Visit Hatshepsut’s terraced mortuary temple followed by a brief stop at the Colossi of Memnon. Both sites are short walks from the coach drop-off.
- Monday6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Hatshepsut temple has terraces—use shaded rest points and avoid climbing long flights of stairs.
- The Colossi of Memnon stop is brief; hold mobility aids or walking sticks ready for easy transfers.
- Bring water and wear comfortable shoes for short stretches on uneven surfaces.
A/C bus transfer: Luxor to Hurghada
Late-afternoon air-conditioned coach transfer across the desert to Hurghada on the Red Sea. The transfer includes a scheduled stop for restrooms and refreshments.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a front-row seating or aisle seat when boarding for easier access on longer transfers.
- Bring layers as desert evenings can be cooler; bus has climate control but temperatures vary.
- Use the scheduled rest stop to stretch legs, use restrooms and sit on benches to reduce stiffness.
Day 7
Free day in Hurghada on the Red Sea — leisure, beach time and optional water activities.
Hurghada: leisure day at the beach or hotel
A day at leisure to relax by the Red Sea. Options include snorkeling, swimming or simply enjoying hotel facilities. Time and activities at your discretion.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask hotel reception about shaded beach chairs and accessible access points to the water.
- Carry reef-safe sunscreen and a hat; beaches may have hot sand between 11:00–15:00.
- If planning a boat trip, request a calm-water option and disclose any mobility concerns in advance.
Day 8
Return to Cairo early; guided city tour including the Egyptian Museum and Khan el-Khalili bazaar.
Flight transfer: Hurghada to Cairo
Early morning transfer to Hurghada Airport for the scheduled flight back to Cairo. Arrival and transfer to the city for museum visits.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep passports and internal flight boarding passes easily accessible for check-in.
- Ask airline staff for assistance with boarding if mobility is an issue; many airlines provide priority assistance.
- Plan arrival at the hotel or museum with time to rest briefly after the flight before sightseeing.
Egyptian Museum (Tahrir) visit
Guided visit to the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square to view Pharaonic antiquities, including highlights from Tutankhamun’s collection.
- Monday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- The museum has several floors—request a ground-floor route or elevator-assisted access points if needed.
- Use the museum’s benches and climate-controlled rooms for frequent rests between galleries.
- Carry a small notebook for questions to ask your Egyptologist; guided stops are timed to avoid long standing periods.
Khan el-Khalili bazaar (Old Cairo)
Afternoon visit to the historic Khan el-Khalili bazaar. Explore alleys with souvenir stalls and traditional coffee shops at a gentle pace.
- Monday11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Bazaar alleys can be busy—stick close to your guide and use a cross-body bag to deter pickpocketing.
- Seek out cafes with seating for comfortable rest stops; avoid standing for long periods in crowded stalls.
- Negotiate gently and set expectations with stall vendors; ask your guide to recommend quieter alleyways for ease of movement.
Day 9
Visit the Pharaonic Village and time at leisure in Cairo.
Pharaonic Village visit (Cairo)
Morning visit to the Pharaonic Village for a recreated glimpse of ancient Egyptian daily life. Canal boat sections and staged scenes bring history to life with limited walking required.
- Monday9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Boat sections involve short steps—ask staff for assistance boarding if necessary.
- There are benches along the canal route; take seating breaks during the guided sequence.
- This attraction includes staged performances—arrive early to secure seats in shaded viewing areas.
Afternoon at leisure in Cairo
Afternoon free to rest or explore at your own pace. Use this time to relax at the hotel or revisit a nearby cafe.
Tips from local experts:
- Use hotel concierge services to arrange short gentle walks or wheelchair-accessible sightseeing if required.
- Carry a printed map of nearby amenities (pharmacy, clinic, cafe) in case you need quick access to services.
- Plan an early evening meal at a calm restaurant with table service to avoid crowded dining areas.
Day 10
After breakfast transfer to Cairo International Airport for departure.
Hotel checkout and transfer to Cairo International Airport
After breakfast, check out and transfer to Cairo International Airport for your departure flight. Assistance with luggage and airport formalities is provided.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your flight time the evening before and request the recommended pickup time from reception.
- Keep travel documents and passports in an easily reachable place for the transfer and check-in.
- If you have mobility needs, request airport assistance in advance so staff can meet you curbside.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 10 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Seniors |
| Transfers | 5 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 15 |
| Total Places | 15 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Attraction, Hotel, Experience, Break, Neighborhood |