Overview
7 Days / 6 Nights Egypt Itinerary: Luxor – Aswan – Hurghada
This 7-day journey through Egypt combines the grandeur of Pharaonic history in Luxor and Aswan with the stunning coastline and vibrant coral reefs of Hurghada on the Red Sea. Ideal for travelers who want to explore Egypt’s ancient past and unwind by the sea, this itinerary offers a well-paced blend of culture, history, and leisure.
Day 1: Arrival in Luxor – East Bank Exploration
Upon arrival in Luxor, often referred to as the world’s greatest open-air museum, you’ll begin your exploration on the East Bank of the Nile. The first stop is the majestic Karnak Temple, one of the largest and most impressive temple complexes in Egypt. Spanning over 100 hectares, Karnak is a masterpiece of architecture, featuring massive pylons, towering columns in the Hypostyle Hall, obelisks, and sacred lakes. It showcases contributions from over 30 pharaohs across centuries.
A short drive away is the Luxor Temple, beautifully illuminated in the evening. Built by Amenhotep III and expanded by Ramses II, it was a center for the Opet Festival and symbolized the rejuvenation of kingship. The temple features colossal statues, an avenue of sphinxes, and fascinating Roman, Coptic, and Islamic layers of history.
Overnight in Luxor.
Day 2: West Bank Treasures – Valley of the Kings & Hatshepsut Temple
Today, you’ll cross the Nile to explore Luxor’s West Bank, where the ancient Egyptians buried their royalty. The highlight here is the Valley of the Kings, home to the rock-cut tombs of New Kingdom pharaohs including Tutankhamun, Ramses VI, and Seti I. These tombs are beautifully decorated with intricate carvings and vibrant paintings depicting scenes from the afterlife.
Next, visit the unique Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari. This striking terraced structure is built into the cliffs and honors Egypt’s most powerful female pharaoh. Nearby stand the Colossi of Memnon, two massive stone statues of Amenhotep III that once guarded his lost mortuary temple.
Optional: Hot air balloon ride at sunrise for a breathtaking aerial view of the Nile Valley.
Overnight in Luxor.
Day 3: Journey to Aswan – Temples of Edfu & Kom Ombo
Depart Luxor and travel south toward Aswan, with stops at two significant temples along the Nile. First, visit the Temple of Horus at Edfu, one of the most intact temples in Egypt. Built during the Ptolemaic era, it features soaring walls, grand columns, and reliefs that narrate Horus’s victory over Set.
Continue to Kom Ombo Temple, uniquely dedicated to two gods: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus the Elder. The temple’s dual layout mirrors its double dedication, and it includes remarkable carvings of ancient surgical instruments and a small museum with mummified crocodiles.
Arrive in Aswan by evening and enjoy a relaxing felucca (traditional sailboat) ride on the Nile.
Overnight in Aswan.
Day 4: Aswan’s Highlights – Philae Temple, High Dam & Optional Abu Simbel
Start your day with a boat ride to Philae Temple, one of the most enchanting temples in Egypt. Dedicated to Isis, the goddess of magic and motherhood, Philae was relocated to Agilkia Island after the construction of the High Dam to protect it from flooding. The temple complex is known for its detailed reliefs, elegant colonnades, and the romantic Kiosk of Trajan.
Then, visit the Aswan High Dam, a monumental feat of 20th-century engineering. Built in the 1960s, it controls the Nile’s flooding, generates hydroelectric power, and created Lake Nasser, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world.
Also explore the Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan’s ancient granite quarries. Left attached to the bedrock due to a major crack, it offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Egyptian stone-working techniques.
Optional: Early morning excursion to the Abu Simbel Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring massive rock-cut temples built by Ramses II. The site is famous for its colossal statues and the solar alignment phenomenon.
Overnight in Aswan.
Day 5: Transfer to Hurghada – Travel Day
Today, you’ll leave the land of temples and pharaohs behind as you make your way to Hurghada, a vibrant resort town on the Red Sea coast. The journey by private car takes around 6–7 hours through the Eastern Desert, offering views of rugged mountains and serene desert landscapes. Alternatively, a short domestic flight (if available) can be arranged for convenience.
Upon arrival, check into a beachfront resort and relax by the sea.
Overnight in Hurghada.
Day 6: Red Sea Relaxation & Optional Activities
After days of historical exploration, enjoy a well-deserved day of rest and leisure in Hurghada. The Red Sea is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life.
Optional activities include:
Snorkeling or diving trips to Giftun Island or Mahmya, both marine reserves with excellent reefs.
A glass-bottom boat or submarine tour for underwater viewing without getting wet.
A desert safari adventure by quad bike, camel, or 4×4 vehicle.
Relaxing beachside with spa treatments and fresh seafood.
Overnight in Hurghada.
Day 7: Departure from Hurghada
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the resort before transferring to Hurghada International Airport for your departure flight. Depending on your onward travel plans, you may return to Cairo or fly directly to your home country from Hurghada.
