8 Days Budget Small Group Tour in Egypt

Welcome to the Land of the Pharaohs

Egypt has long captivated travelers with its rich history, spectacular monuments, and welcoming people. On this fascinating 8-day group tour from Travel Joy Egypt, you will witness some of the country’s most iconic sights and experience its vibrant culture. From the towering Pyramids and Sphinx of Giza to the colossal temples of Karnak and Luxor, this itinerary offers a comprehensive introduction to Egypt’s golden age along the Nile.

Day 1: Arrival in Cairo

You will be met at Cairo International Airport and transferred to your centrally located hotel. Use this first evening to relax after your flight before the adventure begins. Early dinner is recommended to adjust to the time change before a good night’s sleep in preparation for tomorrow’s activities.

Morning at the Giza Pyramids

Rise early on Day 2 to make your way to the awe-inspiring Giza Plateau. Marvel at the only surviving Wonder of the Ancient World — the towering Great Pyramids. Embedded in the landscape, these mammoth stone structures were engineering marvels when built over 4,500 years ago. Nearby, gaze upon the colossal Sphinx — a half-human, half-lion statue that seems to vigilantly guard the pyramids. After explore the site and learning about its ancient construction secrets from your Egyptologist guide, it will be time for lunch before your afternoon train ride to Luxor.

Luxor Welcome

In late afternoon you will arrive in Luxor for a 2-night stay. Known in ancient times as Thebes, this city was once the epicenter of the New Kingdom when it was the pharaonic capital. Its modern name derives from the Arabic al-Qusr, meaning “the fortress”. After checking into your hotel along the Nile, enjoy a welcome dinner of traditional Egyptian cuisine this evening.

Venture to the West Bank

Cross the river very early on Day 4 to explore Luxor’s famed sites on the West Bank. The first stop is the Valley of the Kings – the vast burial ground where pharaohs were laid to rest. Wander among the tombs, including that of King Tut, and marvel at the elaborate hieroglyphic decorations. Next up are the lesser visited but equally impressive monuments of Queen Hatshepsut’s temple and the two Colossi of Memnon – two giant stone seated statues that once guarded her mortuary temple. After the morning tours, transfers will be provided to Hurghada where the next two nights will be spent relaxing by the Red Sea.

Day by the Beach

With free time on Day 5, take full advantage of your beachfront hotel location. Go for a refreshing swim in the turquoise waters, soak up the sun on the powder fine sands, or simply relax under a palm tree with a good book. For those eager to be more active, try snorkeling, scuba diving, water sports or booking an optional desert safari. At leisure to do as much or as little as desired before the northward journey resumes.

Back to Cairo

After breakfast on Day 6, board the air-conditioned bus for the return trip to Cairo. The driver will stop when needed for bathroom breaks. Check into your hotel upon late afternoon arrival before freshening up for tomorrow’s touring. Consider dining this evening at one of the buzzing pavement cafes in downtown Cairo where locals gather to converse over shisha.

Exploring the Capital’s Treasures

On Day 7, your Egyptologist will lead you on a full-day sightseeing tour of Cairo’s iconic landmarks. First stop is the Egyptian Museum, with its renowned King Tutankhamun gallery. Afterwards stroll through nearby Sultan Hassan Square and the Citadel, taking in panoramic city views. Lunch will be followed by visits to Mohamed Ali Mosque, the Coptic neighborhood of Coptic Cairo, and the bustling Khan El Khalili bazaar. The perfect way to gain insights into this ancient-modern city before the journey concludes.

Farewell Egypt

Transfer to Cairo International Airport marks the end of this unforgettable experience on Day 8. Saying goodbye for now, but with hopes of returning again soon to further explore this endlessly fascinating land and culture of the Nile.