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When planning a trip, one of the most common questions travelers ask is how many days to spend in Egypt. With so much to see, from ancient temples and bustling markets in Coptic Cairo to desert landscapes and the Nile, deciding the right length of stay is essential. The answer varies, as every Egypt itinerary can be customized, and numerous tour packages offer different options to match your style of travel. For a broader overview, check out the Egypt Travel Guide from National Geographic.
Egypt is a land of extraordinary contrasts. In just a few days, you can explore the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the treasures of the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. With more time, your journey can expand to Luxor, Aswan, and even Abu Simbel, where the legacy of the pharaohs comes to life. For a deeper look at Egypt’s cultural treasures recognized worldwide, check the UNESCO World Heritage list for Egypt. Add to that the Red Sea beaches or a Nile cruise, and the possibilities become even richer.
Choosing how many days to spend in Egypt depends on several factors: your personal interests, the pace at which you prefer to travel, and of course, your budget. Some visitors are satisfied with a whirlwind highlights tour, while others prefer a slower, more immersive experience that delves deeply into the country’s history and culture.
In the following sections of this article, we will explore recommended lengths of stay, showing how your trip can be shaped by what you most want to experience. Whether you have a few days or two weeks, you will find suggestions to help you plan the perfect journey.
Travelers often wonder how many days to spend in Egypt, and while longer stays allow for deeper exploration, even a week can capture the essence of Egypt - its history, culture, and landscapes that set it apart from other destinations. Both our 7-day Egypt tour and 8-day Egypt tour are designed to showcase this essence, blending the country’s timeless heritage with luxury and exclusivity.
The 8-day Egypt tour offers a perfectly balanced itinerary, beginning in Cairo with the Grand Egyptian Museum and the Giza Plateau, then flying south to Abu Simbel and embarking on a 5-star Nile River cruise. Over the course of three nights, you’ll visit Karnak, Luxor, the Valley of the Kings, and the Temple of Hatshepsut before returning to Cairo to explore Saqqara, the Step Pyramid, and the vibrant Khan el-Khalili Bazaar. This tour distills the very soul of Egypt into one unforgettable week.
The 7-Day Egypt Total Solar Eclipse Tour, on the other hand, adds an unparalleled dimension: the greatest celestial event of this century. On August 2, 2027, you will witness the solar eclipse in Egypt from Luxor, in totality lasting over six minutes - a once-in-a-lifetime experience that few will ever see. Combined with private access to the Great Pyramid, the Sphinx, and intimate encounters with ancient sites, this tour elevates your journey to a true privilege.
In just seven or eight days, you can embrace Egypt’s essence and create memories that last a lifetime.
This exclusive 7-day Egypt tour has been specially designed to coincide with the rarest of celestial events — the 2027 solar eclipse in Luxor. Limited to only 20 guests, it offers a seamless blend of world-class luxury and privileged access to Egypt’s greatest wonders.
From the moment you arrive in Cairo, you’ll be treated to VIP service and stay in carefully selected luxury hotels. Your journey begins with private access to the Great Pyramid of Khufu, and the enigmatic Sphinx, experiences closed to ordinary travelers. Next you will visit the Grand Egyptian Museum. In Luxor, often called the “world’s greatest open-air museum,” your Egyptologist will guide you through Karnak Temple, the Valley of the Kings, and Luxor Temple, immersing you in the timeless legacy of the pharaohs.
The pinnacle of this journey is Eclipse Day, August 2, 2027. From a curated private location in Luxor, you will witness the longest total solar eclipse of this century, 6 minutes and 23 seconds of awe-inspiring totality, an event that will never be repeated in our lifetime.
Once you return to Cairo you will see the Citadel of Salah Din with the Mohamed Ali Pasha Mosque (Alabaster Mosque) and the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar.
Every detail, from internal flights to intimate guided tours, has been designed to ensure comfort, exclusivity, and unforgettable moments. This is not just travel. It is a once-in-a-lifetime privilege.
This immersive 8-day Egypt tour is designed for travelers who want to see the country’s most iconic treasures while enjoying the comfort of luxury service and carefully curated experiences. It combines the cultural richness of Cairo with the timeless beauty of the Nile.
Your journey begins in the capital, where you’ll explore the Grand Egyptian Museum, the Citadel of Salah Din, and the bustling Khan el-Khalili bazaar. From there, a flight takes you to Abu Simbel, where the colossal temples carved into rock captivate with their grandeur. You’ll then board a deluxe Nile River cruise, your floating 5-star retreat, sailing through Upper Egypt to discover Kom Ombo, Edfu, Karnak, and Luxor Temple. Along the way, an expert Egyptologist provides insight that brings each site to life.
One of the tour’s most exclusive experiences awaits in Cairo: private entry to the Giza Plateau, including the Great Pyramid and the Sphinx enclosure — privileges rarely granted to travelers. Visits to Saqqara and the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization round out your journey.
Balancing efficiency with depth, this Egypt 8-day itinerary captures the essence of Egypt’s history, culture, and landscapes in a way that feels both time-savvy and richly immersive.
If you’re wondering how long to stay in Egypt and want the perfect balance of history, culture, and leisure, our 10- to 12-day Egypt packages are designed just for you.
With 10 days in Egypt, you’ll follow an expertly curated itinerary that showcases four legendary cities: Cairo, Giza, Luxor, and Aswan. Begin with the Step Pyramid at Saqqara and the Bent and Red Pyramids at Dahshur, then dive into the treasures of the Grand Egyptian Museum and the charm of Historic Cairo. A luxury Nile cruise carries you from Luxor to Aswan, stopping at iconic temples like Karnak, Hatshepsut, Edfu, and Kom Ombo. From Aswan take your journey to Abu Simbel before returning to Cairo for the ultimate highlight: exclusive, private access inside the Great Pyramid of Khufu and the Great Sphinx, away from the crowds. This is Egypt condensed into an unforgettable 10-day adventure.
If you can extend to 12 days in Egypt, add a luxurious Red Sea escape to your journey. After exploring the Nile’s wonders, travel to Hurghada, where turquoise waters, coral reefs, and white-sand beaches await. Snorkel, dive, or simply relax in world-class comfort. This extension perfectly blends discovery with rejuvenation, offering a broader perspective of Egypt beyond its monuments.
Whether you choose 10-day Egypt tour or a 12-day Egypt tour, you’ll experience the country’s greatest treasures with Inside Egypt. The only question left: How long will you stay in Egypt?
If you’re planning the ideal vacation, our carefully designed Egypt itinerary shows you the very best of the country in just 10 days. This journey combines Cairo’s treasures, an extended Nile cruise through Luxor and Aswan, and the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel temples.
Your adventure begins in Cairo with visits to Saqqara and Dahshur’s pyramids, followed by the Grand Egyptian Museum, the Citadel of Salah Din, and the bustling Khan el-Khalili Bazaar. Flying to Luxor, you’ll step into ancient history at the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, the Colossi of Memnon, and the magnificent Luxor and Karnak temples.
From there, embark on a luxurious Nile cruise that carries you to Edfu and Kom Ombo, where the Crocodile Museum adds a fascinating twist to the journey. Continuing to Aswan, highlights include a once-in-a-lifetime visit to Abu Simbel, the Nubian Village, the Unfinished Obelisk, and the Temple of Isis at Philae.
Back in Cairo, the tour culminates with an exclusive private entry to the Giza Plateau. You’ll explore the Great Pyramid, including chambers closed to the public, and stand face to face with the Great Sphinx in a rare, intimate setting.
Ten days, countless memories, our 10 Day Tour of Egypt showcases the country at its most extraordinary.
Our 12-day Egypt itinerary is designed for travelers seeking a more immersive journey through Egypt’s timeless wonders, blending ancient history with modern leisure. This extended adventure offers an in-depth exploration of legendary temples, world-class museums, and the beauty of the Red Sea resorts.
Your journey begins with Saqqara and Dahshur, followed by the treasures of the Grand Egyptian Museum and special private access to the Great Pyramid and the Great Sphinx at Giza. From there, fly to Abu Simbel to witness the monumental rock temples of Ramses II, then sail the Nile to marvel at Kom Ombo, Edfu, and the majestic temples of Luxor, including the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut’s Temple, Karnak, and Luxor Temple.
After exploring Egypt’s ancient heart, the itinerary transitions to pure relaxation at Hurghada, where turquoise waters, coral reefs, and golden sands invite you to unwind. These Red Sea resorts offer snorkeling, diving, and beachside leisure, balancing the intensity of sightseeing with rejuvenation.
Returning to Cairo, you’ll explore the Egyptian Museum, the Citadel of Salah Din, Historic Cairo, and the lively Khan el-Khalili Bazaar before your journey concludes, or extend your stay with an optional Alexandria tour.
This 12-day Egypt tour captures the best of Egypt, including its monuments, rich culture, and stunning, and coastal paradise.
If you’re wondering how long to visit Egypt to truly capture its spirit, our extended Egypt tour packages of 14, 15, or 17 days offer the perfect solution. These itineraries are designed for travelers seeking not only monuments but also deeper cultural experiences in Egypt and an insider’s perspective on Ancient Egyptian history.
Our 14-day Egypt itinerary spans the entire country, from the pyramids of Saqqara and Dahshur to the Fayoum Oasis and Whale Valley, with private access to the Giza Plateau. A week-long Nile cruise unveils Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel, while Historic Cairo, and the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization add rich layers of discovery.
The 15-day Egypt tour is one of our Signature Expert Tours. This limited, twice-a-year journey, guided by local experts, adds depth with the Siwa Oasis, where palm groves, natural springs, and desert landscapes create a magical contrast to the bustle of Cairo and the grandeur of Luxor. It’s the perfect blend of history, immersion, and authenticity.
For the ultimate Egypt travel experience, our 17-day tour offers the most comprehensive itinerary. This once-a-year Signature Expert Tour includes a rare long Nile cruise from Cairo to Luxor and Aswan, stopping at seldom-visited sites like Beni Hasan, Abydos, Dendera, and Tell el-Amarna. With interactive sessions and exclusive access led by Egyptologists, this tour delivers a richer, more meaningful way to explore.
These journeys go far beyond sightseeing, they’re immersive stories of Egypt, told by the land itself and brought to life by those who know it best.
Our 14-day itinerary in Egypt is ideal for senior travelers who prefer a relaxed pace, combining gentle sightseeing with comfort and a long, rejuvenating 7-day Nile cruise. This journey allows you to enjoy the wonders of Egypt without feeling rushed.
The adventure begins in Cairo with the necropolises of Saqqara and Dahshur, home to the Step Pyramid and the striking Bent and Red Pyramids. One of the most memorable experiences is the excursion to the Fayoum Oasis and Wadi El Hitan (Whale Valley), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, ancient fossils, desert lakes, and the Qasr Qarun Temple create a truly unique opportunity for desert adventures in Egypt, blending natural beauty with history.
From Cairo, enjoy a private entry to the Giza Plateau for an intimate visit to the Great Pyramid and the Sphinx, followed by time at the Grand Egyptian Museum.
The highlight of this journey is the extended 7-night Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan and back. With plenty of time to relax on board, you’ll also explore world-famous sites at an unhurried pace: the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut’s Temple, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Abu Simbel, and the Temple of Philae.
Concluding in Cairo, you’ll visit the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, the Citadel of Salah Din, and the lively Khan el-Khalili bazaar, ending your Egypt vacation with culture, comfort, and unforgettable memories.
Our exclusive 15-day Signature Expert Tour is offered only twice a year, designed for travelers who want more than the usual stops. The highlight of this unique journey is the breathtaking Siwa Oasis, one of Egypt’s most enchanting destinations, where desert landscapes, palm groves, salt lakes, and ancient temples create an unforgettable atmosphere.
The adventure begins in Cairo with private access to the Giza Plateau and the Step Pyramid at Saqqara, followed by the treasures of the Grand Egyptian Museum. From there, travel to Alexandria to explore the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, and the Citadel of Qaitbay.
The journey then turns westward to the Siwa Oasis, where you’ll visit the Oracle Temple, Shali Fortress, the Mountain of the Dead, and enjoy the serenity of Bir Wahed’s desert hot springs. Days here are filled with discovery and tranquility, offering a glimpse of Egypt’s hidden side.
Returning to Cairo, the tour continues with a 5-star Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan, visiting Karnak, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Abu Simbel, and Philae Temple. Concluding in Islamic Cairo, you’ll explore the Citadel of Salah Din, the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, and Historic Cairo’s medieval charm.
This 15-day Egypt itinerary blends world-famous sites with rare desert wonders, making it one of the most rewarding Egypt tour packages available.
Our 17-day Signature Expert Tour is organized only once a year, designed for travelers who want the most complete and immersive experience of Egypt. This extraordinary journey covers every major site along the Nile while also uncovering hidden gems and offering rare cultural experiences that few visitors ever enjoy.
Beginning in Cairo, you’ll explore Saqqara, Dahshur, and the Giza Plateau with exclusive private access to the Great Pyramid and Sphinx, plus time at the Grand Egyptian Museum. From here, embark on a once-in-a-lifetime long Nile cruise from Cairo to Aswan, sailing past landscapes and temples rarely visited by tourists. Along the way, marvel at Tuna el-Gebel, Beni Hasan, Tell el-Amarna, Abydos, and Dendera—sites rich in Ancient Egyptian history and often missed on shorter tours.
In Luxor, the Valley of the Kings, Karnak, and Luxor Temple reveal the grandeur of pharaonic power. Continuing south, visit Edfu and Kom Ombo before reaching Aswan, where highlights include Abu Simbel, the Philae Temple, and a vibrant Nubian village experience that connects you with Egypt’s living traditions.
The adventure concludes in Cairo with the Egyptian Museum, the Saladin Citadel, Al Muizz Street, and the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, ensuring a perfect balance of ancient heritage and everyday life.
This 17-day Egypt itinerary offers unparalleled immersion, an epic journey through Egypt’s past and present, created for those who want more than just a tour.
When planning your journey, it’s natural to wonder how many days to spend in Egypt. The answer depends on your travel style, interests, and pace. Our curated itineraries provide the right Egypt travel duration for every type of traveler.
For Seniors: The ideal choice is 10–14 days, offering a comfortable pace with extended Nile cruises and cultural highlights. Some may prefer longer programs, depending on individual fitness and energy levels.
For Couples: All tours from 8 to 17 days make excellent options, whether you seek a short romantic escape or an extended adventure through Egypt’s history and landscapes.
For Busy Professionals: With limited vacation time, our 8-day tour delivers the essentials, pyramids, temples, and a Nile cruise, without feeling rushed.
For Families: Our 8, 12, and 14-day tours, scheduled in July, align perfectly with school breaks, combining fun with meaningful learning.
For History & Culture Lovers: Choose our 15 or 17-day itineraries for deeper immersion into Ancient Egyptian history and access to hidden treasures.
For Eclipse Chasers: Don’t miss the 7-Day Egypt Total Solar Eclipse Tour in 2027, combining Egypt’s wonders with a once-in-a-lifetime celestial event.
Whatever your style, we help you choose the perfect Egypt tour duration to match your dream journey.
When planning your dream vacation to Egypt, it’s natural to wonder how many days to spend in Egypt. The answer isn’t only about time—it’s about what you want to experience most. Every itinerary with Inside Egypt is carefully designed to offer meaningful travel, whether you choose a shorter 8-day highlights tour or an in-depth 17-day journey. For more inspiration on exploring the past, see the Smithsonian’s History section.
Shorter programs, like our 8- and 10-day tours, are perfect for busy travelers who want to see the essentials, Cairo, the Pyramids, and a taste of the Nile, without feeling rushed. Families often enjoy the 12- and 14-day itineraries, which balance cultural sightseeing with relaxation. Longer journeys, such as our 15- and 17-day Signature Expert Tours, dive deep into Ancient Egyptian history while also including unforgettable cultural experiences in Egypt, from the Siwa Oasis to the vibrant markets of Coptic Cairo and Historic Cairo.
Each program is more than sightseeing; it’s an invitation to connect with Egypt’s living history, timeless landscapes, and welcoming people.
The perfect Egypt travel duration is the one that aligns with your interests, pace, and curiosity.
Explore Inside Egypt’s curated tours and find the journey that’s right for you: Inside Egypt Luxury Tours.
| Tour Name | Duration | Key Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Egypt Total Solar Eclipse Tour 2027 | 7 days | Special 2027 eclipse viewing in Luxor + Cairo, Giza (exclusive access to Great Pyramid & Great Sphinx), Grand Egyptian Museum, Old Cairo, Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, optional 4-night Nile cruise, Historic Cairo | Eclipse chasers, astronomy enthusiasts |
| 8-Day Egypt Tour | 8 days | Cairo & Giza (private access to Great Pyramid & Sphinx), Grand Egyptian Museum, Saqqara, Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel, Edfu & Kom Ombo, 3-night Nile River cruise, Medieval Cairo | Busy professionals, families with limited time (July dates) |
| 10-Day Tour of Egypt | 10 days | Cairo, Giza (private access to Great Pyramid & Sphinx), Grand Egyptian Museum, Saqqara, Dahshour, Luxor, Aswan, 4-night Nile cruise, Abu Simbel, Edfu & Kom Ombo, Islamic Cairo | Seniors (shorter version), couples, first-time visitors |
| Egypt & Red Sea Tour | 12 days | Cairo, Giza (exclusive access to Great Pyramid & Great Sphinx), Grand Egyptian Museum, Saqqara, Dahshour, Luxor & Aswan, Abu Simbel, 3-night Nile cruise, Hurghada Red Sea resort with snorkeling/diving, Islamic Cairo | Families (July dates), couples, travelers seeking a mix of culture & relaxation |
| Around Egypt in 14 Days | 14 days | Cairo, Saqqara, Dahshur, Fayoum & Wadi El Hitan, private Giza access, Grand Egyptian Museum, 7-night Nile cruise, Luxor (Medinet Habu), Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan, Abu Simbel, Islamic Cairo | Families (July dates), seniors (slow pace, extended cruise), cultural explorers |
| Egypt & Siwa Oasis Tour | 15 days | Cairo & Giza (private access), Alexandria, Siwa Oasis, Grand Egyptian Museum, Saqqara, 4-night Nile River cruise, Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan, Abu Simbel, Islamic Cairo | History & culture lovers, adventure seekers |
| Long Nile Cruise from Cairo to Aswan | 17 days | Cairo to Aswan long Nile cruise with rare stops (Tuna el-Gebel, Beni Hasan, Abydos, Dendera, Tell el-Amarna), Giza (private access), Saqqara (Tomb of Mereruka), Dahshour, Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Abu Simbel, Aswan, Aswan High Dam, Nubian village, Islamic Cairo, Grand Egyptian Museum | Serious history lovers, seasoned travelers |
