The Trip I Still Can’t Stop Talking About (Egypt!)
When I first started selling travel, my goal was to send people to Egypt. My trip to Egypt in 2019, right before I moved back to the US, was one of the best trips of my entire life. Part of it was the company — I was traveling with my good friends from Chicago, Karen and Bob. The other part? Good planning. Karen and I spent months researching our trip, booking guides and drivers and tours. It all paid off with a fantastic trip. The light in Egypt…nothing compares. And cruising down the Nile? Spectacular.
I’m sending multiple clients to Egypt over the next few months and I am so excited for them.
Egypt is a land of contradictions: ancient temples and bustling cities, timeless feluccas and gleaming luxury yachts. There are so many ways to see it all—some with (Egyptian) champagne in hand, others with sand between your toes.
Here are seven very different takes on Egypt, ranked from the most opulent to the most affordable, each with its own personality and style. And remember…I can always do something custom too. Ready to talk Egypt? Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.
Abercrombie & Kent – Petra to the Pyramids & a Nile Yacht Cruise
Style: Ultra-luxury, small group (max 12)
Length: 13 days
Starting Price: From ~$17,495 per person
Why it makes the list:
A&K does Egypt like no one else—think a private yacht on the Nile with just a handful of fellow travelers, and after-hours access to some of the world’s most iconic temples. The price tag is jaw-dropping, but so are the experiences: Petra, the Valley of the Kings, and cocktails on the sun deck of your own floating palace.
Floating down the Nile…
Luxury Gold – Elegance of the Nile
Style: Boutique luxury, concierge-level service
Length: 11 days
Starting Price: From ~$7,300 per person
Why it makes the list:
For those who crave five-star comforts but want the social vibe of a small group, Luxury Gold delivers. Highlights include VIP after-hours access at Luxor, high tea at the legendary Cataract Hotel (one of my favorite all-time travel experiences), and a 7-night cruise on the Nile. It’s indulgent without being over the top—perfect if you like your history with a side of martinis.
Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut aka Hot Chicken Soup
Insight Vacations – Splendours of Egypt
Style: Premium small-group guided touring
Length: 12 days
Starting Price: From ~$4,200 per person
Why it makes the list:
Insight is known for weaving culture into every trip. Alongside the headline sites (Giza, Luxor, Aswan), you’ll enjoy immersive touches like high tea at the Old Cataract Hotel (it really is great!) and plenty of time with expert Egyptologists. It’s luxury’s thoughtful cousin—comfortable, yes, but focused on storytelling and meaning.
Trafalgar – Wonders of Ancient Egypt
Style: Classic guided group touring
Length: 12 days
Starting Price: From ~$3,500 per person
Why it makes the list:
Trafalgar is the reliable “first step” into Egypt for many travelers. You’ll cover all the big-ticket sites, enjoy a 7-night Nile cruise, and have the comfort of a well-oiled itinerary. The price point is attractive, making this a sweet spot for those who want to experience it all without the extravagance.
Collette – Treasures of Egypt
Style: Mid-range cultural touring
Length: 9 days (with Alexandria extension available)
Starting Price: From ~$3,400 per person
Why it makes the list:
Collette adds a dash of fun with cultural moments like a galabeya party onboard your Nile cruise. Their itineraries are well-paced, mixing must-see monuments with immersive touches. It’s a balanced, approachable way to experience Egypt—without feeling like you’re rushing from site to site.
G Adventures – Wonders of Egypt & the Nile
Style: Small-group adventure with authentic flavor
Length: 10 days
Starting Price: Around $2,519 per person
Why it makes the list:
If you want authentic over fancy, this is your pick. Picture three nights sailing a traditional dahabiya (a wind-powered boat), homecooked meals in a Nubian village, and Egyptologist guides who live the history they’re sharing. It’s a more grassroots version of Egypt—with just the right amount of comfort.
Globus – Egypt with Nile Cruise
Style: Value-oriented guided touring
Length: 9 days (extensions to Jordan available)
Starting Price: From ~$2,400 per person
Why it makes the list:
Globus is dependable, affordable, and offers smart add-ons like Jordan and Petra. The value here is undeniable: classic sites, a 4-night Nile cruise, and well-organized logistics at a price that won’t make your jaw drop. It’s Egypt done smart and simple.
Final Word
From Abercrombie & Kent’s $17K floating palace to G Adventures’ dahabiya sails for $2500, the spectrum is wide. I can also craft something entirely custom for you and your friends and family if that makes more sense.
The real question isn’t whether to go to Egypt—it’s how you want to experience it. Do you see yourself sipping champagne on a yacht, or sipping mint tea in a village? Either way, Egypt is unforgettable. Ready to plan your trip? Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.
About Krista
I’m a Virtuoso travel advisor based in West Palm Beach, Florida. I attended the University of Notre Dame for undergrad, and have my MBA from the University of Chicago. Prior to moving to Florida to take care of my elderly mom with Parkinson’s Disease, I spent over 11 years living and working in London, England. My background and 20 year career in the investment management industry have taken me all over the world. To date, I’ve been to 78 countries. Now I bring the joy of travel to others as a Virtuoso travel advisor. I offer a 30 minute complimentary vacation consultation to anyone looking to plan their next trip.
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Ways I Can Help You
Knowledge and experience. I’ve been to 75+ countries.
I can offer VIP perks and amenities at thousands of hotels around the world. Virtuoso perks are just the start. I can also upgrade your stay at Marriott, Hilton, IHG, Four Seasons, and Rosewood properties…among others. Think free breakfast, priority for upgrade, a hotel credit, and more! (See my website footer for all the brands I work with.)
I have a huge storehouse of luxury cruises: I partner with all the major cruise lines…Royal Caribbean, Silversea, Viking, Ama Waterways, Tauck and more. I can add onboard credits and other perks that you cannot get by booking direct.
I have vetted villa rentals with concierge service all around the world
Private jets.
Yacht charters.
Small group and private touring through my partners Project Expedition and Tours by Locals.
Airport transfers.
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