FAQs
Find answers to the most common questions about Egypt tours, Nile cruises, payments, and planning your trip.
Before You Travel
October to April is ideal for sightseeing and Nile cruises, with cooler temperatures and pleasant weather. However, each season offers something special—from fewer crowds in summer to festive events in winter.
Yes, we strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance. It should include coverage for medical expenses, trip interruption or cancellation, emergency evacuation, and baggage loss. This ensures you're protected in case of unforeseen events.
Absolutely! We offer many family-friendly options. Nile cruises, pyramids visits, and Red Sea escapes are popular with both kids and adults. Let us know if you’re traveling with children - we’ll tailor the experience accordingly.
We do our best to accommodate special needs. Please notify us in advance about mobility or accessibility requirements so we can suggest suitable options and make arrangements.
Our Egyptologist guides speak English by default. We also offer tours in French, Spanish, German, and other languages on request. Please mention your preference when booking.
Booking & Payments
You can book online directly through our website or reach out to our team via email or WhatsApp for custom requests. For groups, B2B inquiries, or tailor-made itineraries, we offer dedicated support.
A 25% deposit is required to confirm most bookings. During peak seasons (Christmas, New Year, Easter), a 50% deposit may be requested.
We accept:
- Bank transfer (preferred)
- Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard – with a 6% processing fee)
- Monthly installment plans (available for early bookings)
Yes! We offer a flexible monthly installment plan, allowing you to pay the total amount in 3 to 6 payments before your arrival.
Yes. A 6% processing fee is added to credit card payments to cover banking charges.
Yes, based on availability. We don’t charge admin fees for changes unless flights are involved, which may have airline-specific fees.
During Your Trip
Most packages include:
- Airport meet & assist
- Transportation
- Hotel or cruise accommodation
- Expert-led sightseeing
- Entry fees
- Some meals (check your itinerary for details)
Domestic flights can be included in some packages. International flights are not included unless clearly specified.
Yes, we offer private airport transfers in air-conditioned vehicles in Cairo, Luxor, Hurghada, Aswan, and Marsa Alam.
Tipping is customary in Egypt and appreciated. While not mandatory, it is encouraged for guides, drivers, and cruise staff. On some Nile cruises, tipping may be included or compulsory.
We suggest packing:
- Lightweight clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat - A power adapter (220V, European plug)
- Swimwear (for cruises or Red Sea trips) We provide detailed packing tips in your travel documents.
Cancellations & Refunds
Refunds depend on how far in advance you cancel:
- 60 - 45 days before: 25% fee
- 44 - 31 days: 50% fee
- 30 - 15 days: 75% fee
- 14 - 1 day: 100% fee
Flight and sleeper train tickets will have separate cancellation rules.
No-shows are non-refundable. We highly recommend confirming all flight times and hotel check-in info in advance.
Refunds are issued via the original payment method. For credit card refunds, a 6% bank charge applies.
Nile Cruise & Accommodation
We offer a variety of cruise options:
- Standard cruises - great value, full-board
- Luxury cruises - 5-star comfort with premium amenities
- Dahabiya yachts - small-group, wind-powered elegance
- Lake Nasser cruises - tranquil, off-the-path cultural experiences
Cabin styles vary by cruise category. From budget cabins to deluxe suites with balconies, each ship has its own offering. Ask our team for ship-specific details before booking.
Yes. All Nile cruises include full-board: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Drinks are usually extra unless stated otherwise.
Travel Insurance & Safety
We don’t sell insurance directly, but we can recommend trusted providers. It’s essential to secure a policy that includes medical, cancellation, and evacuation coverage.
We comply with international safety standards, use licensed guides and drivers, and maintain strong hygiene and emergency protocols across all tours and cruises.
You can reach our Cairo-based office at any time by sending an email to [email protected]. In addition, upon your arrival in Egypt, you’ll be provided with direct contact details for your personal representative or guide, along with our emergency office number for round-the-clock support. Whether it's a last-minute change or urgent assistance, we’re here for you 24/7.
Still Have Questions
Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Please chat to our friendly team.
Why Travel With Explore Nile Cruises by Discovery Tours Egypt?
Since 1988, Discovery Tours Egypt has been crafting seamless, personalized travel experiences across Egypt and the Middle East. We’re more than a travel company - we’re your trusted in-country partner, combining local expertise with global standards and heartfelt service.
100% Tailor-Made Itineraries
Every trip is built from the ground up to suit your travel style, pace, and priorities - from hotels and transport to themes like luxury, culture, or adventure.
Expert Local Specialists
Our team lives and works in Egypt. You'll have one dedicated expert from planning through departure - no hand-offs, no generic service.
Egyptologist-Guided Experiences
We partner with licensed Egyptologist guides who enrich your journey with insights, stories, and access to hidden gems.
End-to-End Coordination
We handle all logistics - flights, cruises, transfers, hotels, and more. Travel with confidence knowing we’re just a phone call away, 24/7.
Licensed & Protected
We’re a Class-A DMC registered in Cairo, with secure payment options and full financial protection for peace of mind.
Real Connections, Not Just Checklists
We go beyond names and dates - creating opportunities to interact with local people, culture, cuisine, and community.
Trusted by thousands of travelers worldwide. Secure payments with 3D Secure & Verified by Visa.
Travel with confidence.
We’re an IATA-accredited and ETAA Class-A licensed DMC based in Cairo, proudly crafting tailor-made Egypt holidays since 1988. Whether you're booking a luxury Nile cruise, a Red Sea escape, or a private cultural tour, our Cairo-based experts are here to support you every step of the way.
- Explore Nile Cruises - Powered by Discovery Tours Egypt
- 12 El Obour, Saleh Salam, Cairo. Egypt
- [email protected]
- + 20 10 9021 5031
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