trip to egypt

Egypt Trips & Tour Packages

Group of travellers marvel at the pyramids in Cairo

Awesome ancient wonders, endless golden sands and atmospheric local souqs make Egypt the ultimate travel destination.

You’ve got to see it to believe it in Egypt – the chaos of Cairo (seriously, this city never stops); the bustling bazaars; the imposing glory of the Pyramids of Giza, and the world’s most famous lion with a human head (the iconic Sphinx).Only in Egypt can you sail into the sunset on a felucca cruise along the Nile, marvel at the world's most spectacular temple complexes, wander through Luxor’s Valley of the Kings, and then float facing towards the sky in the glittering expanse of the Red Sea. Take a moment as time stands still in Egypt.

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Egypt at a glance

Capital city.

Cairo (population 9.4 million)

107.5 million

Egyptian pound (EGP)

(GMT+02:00) Cairo

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin)

Learn more about Egypt

Best time to visit egypt.

Egypt is blessed with lots of sunshine and very little rain. Generally, the hottest months are June to August, and the coolest month is January. Rainfall is negligible, except on the coast, with rain usually occurring during the winter months (December to March).

During the summer months (from June to August), daily temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius) - perfect for snorkeling and soaking up the sun on the beaches of Sinai, but can prove challenging for some in the crowded streets and souqs of Cairo.

Choose to escape the crowds by traveling from March to May or September to November when the weather is milder, and there's the opportunity to experience Egypt during Ramadan and the celebrations of Eid (which marks the breaking of the fast). If you are planning to travel during Ramadan, it's important to consider that many restaurants and shops will either be closed or operating at reduced hours.

Read more about the best time to visit Egypt

Culture and customs

Life in Egypt has been in a state of flux since the 2011 revolution. Many of the issues that motivated so many to take to the streets in protest continue to be points of contention, but Egyptians remain hopeful, relying on religion, family and humor to get them through, like they have for thousands of years. A strong sense of community binds people across the country. Families and communities support each other and there is a prevailing sense that everyone is in it together. For all these reasons, most express great pride in being Egyptian, despite their nation’s recent turmoil.

As a largely Muslim country (about 90% of the population is Muslim while most of the remaining 10% identify as Coptic Christian), Islam permeates daily activities. Life revolves around the five daily prayers and everything is closed on Friday, the Muslim holy day. A wide array of cultural norms, including how people dress and interact with the opposite sex, are influenced by religion. Women are largely defined by their role as a mother and matron of the house, whereas men are expected to be the provider.

Many Egyptians consider their country the gateway between the West and the rest of the Arab world, and take pride in their ability to mix tradition with modern influences. This mixing is most apparent in major cities, such as Cairo and Alexandria, where American fast-food chains can be found next to traditional cafes, secular attitudes are more common, and pop music rings through city streets.

Food and drink

With fragrant spices, fresh fruit and vegetables, and delicious sweets on offer, culinary adventures in Egypt are guaranteed. On many Intrepid trips you'll be given the opportunity to dine with a local family – this offers a great chance to see how meals are prepared and learn more about the ingredients.

Things to try in Egypt

1. Hamam mahshi

A north African delicacy, hamam – roasted pigeon stuffed with cracked wheat and rice – can be found on the menu of most traditional Egyptian restaurants. You may need a few to fill up though, as they don’t contain a lot of meat. And be careful of all the tiny bones.

2. Ta'ameya (falafel)

Crunchy on the outside, and moist on the inside, these deep-fried balls of spiced fava beans are a Middle Eastern vegetarian staple. Usually served in a pita with salad, pickles, and sesame-based tahina - buy it at a street stall for a quick, cheap meal.

Shops specializing in this popular ‘poor man’s dish’ can be found throughout Cairo. A hearty mix of rice, macaroni and lentils, chickpeas, and fried onions, koshary is topped with a tomato-vinegar sauce.

4. Ful medames

Don't leave Egypt without trying the classic dish of ful medames, which can be traced back to pharaonic times. Consisting of slow-cooked fava beans, served with olive oil, parsley, garlic, and lemon juice - add some spice by seasoning with chili paste and eat with bread.

5. Pastries

Delicious, sweet pastries are found in restaurants, markets, and cafes in Egypt. Never was there a better time to live by the adage ‘Life is short, eat dessert first’.

Egypt is a mostly Muslim country, and any consumption of alcohol here is relatively low-key. There are many fantastic alternatives. Juice stands are common on main streets offering freshly squeezed banana, guava, or mango juice. Karkadai is a chilled, crimson drink brewed from hibiscus leaves (served hot in the winter). And tea (or shai) is the beverage of choice for most Egyptians, which is sipped throughout the day and with meals.

Geography and environment

Located in the northeast corner of Africa, Egypt shares its borders with Israel and the Palestinian Territories, Libya, and Sudan, as well as the Mediterranean Sea to the north and the Red Sea to the east. The two seas are connected by the man-made Suez Canal.

The remote triangle-shaped peninsula is largely characterized by limestone and desert, but also has a vibrant coral reef along the Red Sea coastline. Hot, dry desert covers most of the country’s terrain, with the Western Desert occupying much of the west, and the Arabian (or Eastern) Desert stretching the length of the eastern coast. These two regions are dissected by the Nile River, which runs the length of the country, emptying into the Mediterranean Sea. The Nile Valley, a narrow fertile band extending from the river, is the country’s only fertile land and where 98% of the population lives.

History and government

Recent history.

Napoleon Bonaparte, the infamous pint-sized French leader, invaded Egypt in 1798, seeking to set up a French colony. However, not long after, the French were repelled, and Egypt became a part of the Ottoman Empire once again.

From 1882, the British Army occupied Egypt to protect the Suez Canal. Muhammad Ali officially ruled from the early 1800s, and his family and successors continued to rule for decades (alongside and during British occupation) until overthrown by a military coup in 1952.

During World War II, Egypt became a crucial element in Britain's defense. The Italian Army tried to advance into Egypt in 1940 but was stopped by the British Army at Mersa Matruh. Egypt continued to serve as a vital base for British troops during World War II and despite the disruption, Egypt's shopkeepers and retail trade benefitted from the thousands of Allied troops staying in Egypt.

In 1953, Egypt was officially declared a republic, and a year later, Colonel Nasser was declared Prime Minister, then President. In 1979, after decades of confrontation with neighboring Israel, the historic Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty was signed. This agreement made Egypt the first Arab country to officially recognize Israel as a country - a significant step in the peace process. More recently, in February 2011, large-scale protests and mass demonstrations resulted in the removal of President Mubarak after decades of autocratic rule.

Early history

Ancient Egypt has been the focus of much fascination, investigation, speculation, and intrigue. It's hard to escape the education system without having studied Ancient Egypt in some way. Drawn in by the mighty pyramids, mysterious hieroglyphics, distinct burial rituals and animal-headed gods - scholars, students, historians, and travelers are all amazed by this civilization which has endured cycles of dynastic rule, invasion, and natural disasters.

Through key archaeological finds, historians have been able to unravel some of the mysteries of this great land. What is known is that the daily life of the average Egyptian usually involved working in agriculture with the waters of the Nile providing fertile ground for planting crops. Egyptians usually lived in modest homes with children and domestic pets. Professions were usually inherited - so if your father was a farmer, then so were you.

While most Egyptians led simple lives, dynasties of Pharaohs led lavish lifestyles, with the most well-known being Ramses II, Hatshepsut, Akhenaten, Tutankhamun, and Cleopatra. Huge monuments, imposing pyramids, golden artifacts, and detailed paintings all hold details about pharaonic rule and succession, as well as commonly held beliefs about religion and the afterlife.

Spanning centuries and full of drama worthy of a soap opera, the epic history of Ancient Egypt is complex and we suggest you read about it before visiting.

Top places to visit in Egypt

1. nile river.

Sail down the mighty Nile River on a traditional Egyptian felucca.

Trip: Egypt Experience

Trip: Explore Egypt & Jordan

Dive into the warm, glittering waters of the Red Sea on a snorkeling adventure in Hurghada.

Trip: Jordan & Egypt Express

Trip: Explore Egypt

Trip: Egypt Family Holiday

3. Alexandria

Discover the historic wonders of Alexandria, an ancient port city that locals call the Bride of the Mediterranean Sea.

Trip: Jordan & Egypt Uncovered

Experience the bustling energy of Cairo and shop for souvenirs at Cairo's Khan al-Khalili bazaar.

Trip: Egypt Adventure

5. Mt Sinai

Hike to the summit of Mt Sinai, which many believe is where Moses received the ten commandments.

Trip: Discover Egypt & Jordan

Explore the impressive chapels, pylons and obelisks of Karnak Temple.

Trip: Egypt, Jordan, Isreal & the Palestinian Territories

7. Abu Simbel

These massive monuments dedicated to Ramses II and Queen Nefertari are seriously impressive.

8. Valley of the Kings

King Tut’s treasures may be long gone, but his hieroglyphic-covered tomb remains an incredible sight to see.

Trip: Essential Egypt

Trip: Epic Egypt, Jordan & Isreal & the Palestinian Territories

Trip: Real Egypt & Jordan

Top 10 ancient wonders of Egypt

1. grand designs.

The original grand design - monumental and magnificent - the Pyramids of Giza are an impressive achievement in ancient engineering. Towering above the desert sands and standing proudly for centuries, the first glimpse of these stunning structures will render visitors breathless.

2. Stony enigma

Be captivated by the mysterious aura of the Great Sphinx of Giza. This monolithic mythical beast possesses a lion’s body and a human head - and has sat quietly in the desert sands for eons. Gaze at the Sphinx and try to work out the riddle of its existence.

3. Mighty Nile River

No trip to Egypt is complete without visiting the Nile River - the life force of Egypt that has flowed for centuries. A provider of irrigation, an essential travel route, home to hippos and crocodiles, and now a source of leisure for locals and travelers alike, the Nile is an aquatic link to Egypt’s ancient heritage.

4. Terrific temples

Discover an enormous open-air museum like no other. The awe-inspiring Temples of Karnak are filled with stately statues, immense columns, and gigantic gateways. Explore this intriguing site and be left in no doubt about the brilliance of the ancient Egyptian civilization.

5. Holy mountain

Embark on a trek to the top of Mt Sinai and witness an incredible golden sunrise to remember. A place of worship for many faiths, a pilgrimage to Mt Sinai reveals stunning scenery, an ancient monastery and historic chapels. An iconic highlight of Egypt for believers and non-believers alike, Mt Sinai is not to be missed.

6. Double happiness

Located in the Nile Valley, the unique Temple of Kom Ombo is a ‘double temple’ and a rare archaeological find. Dedicated to two gods, a visit here is a true highlight of an Egyptian escapade. Marvel at the well-preserved wall reliefs, try to decipher the hieroglyphics and honour the craftsmen who created this wonder.

7. Museum magic

Step into a dazzling world of antiquity at the Egyptian Museum. Be amazed by the glittering treasures recovered from King Tutankhamun’s tomb – with jewelry, furniture, chariots and that famous gold funerary mask, this pharaoh was certainly prepared for the afterlife.

8. Roman ruins

The Roman ruins of Kom el-Dikka in Alexandria may not be the biggest, but they are certainly among the best-preserved in Egypt, if not the world. Soak up the atmosphere of the Roman amphitheater and imagine it in all its glory - packed with 800 spectators ready for action.

9. Colossal characters

Near the modern city of Luxor stand the imposing Colossi of Memnon. These massive stone statues of Amenhotep III, while badly damaged, still maintain an unmistakable air of authority. Stand below them and be dwarfed by the scale of these tremendous figures.

10. The ancient heart of Cairo

Wander the cobbled streets of Islamic Cairo and uncover the ancient heart of this chaotic city. Admire mosques, palaces and houses, and peruse the goods on offer at one of the world’s oldest bazaars. Dating back to medieval times, the Khan al-Khalili bazaar is where people have traded goods for centuries.

Souqs – or open-air bazaars – are both the best place to shop in Egypt and attractions in their own right. The biggest and most famous souq is the 500-year-old Khan El Khalili Bazaar in Cairo. Within the maze of narrow streets and laneways lie stalls selling jewelry, glass, copper, spices and artisan goods, along with more standard tourist fare. Quality can vary greatly so spend some time shopping around.

Like many markets around the world, bargaining is the norm, but Egyptians take it to another level. Expect to be offered tea (it can take that long) and for elaborate theatrics from the seller. While bazaars in Cairo tend to sell everything, visit Aswan’s bazaar for spices, incense, and basketwork, and Luxor for cheaply priced alabaster figurines and vases. It's also a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country.

Things to buy in Egypt

You’ll often see spices piled high in bazaars. In addition to making a great photo for Instagram, they’re often a good buy as long as you keep a couple of things in mind. Always buy whole spices rather than ground to ensure freshness and skip the ‘saffron’ – it’s actually safflower and tastes like dust.

2. Glassware

Hand-blown Muski glass, recognizable by its air bubbles, comes in brilliant shades of blue and green and purple and has been made in Egypt since medieval times. Be careful with this purchase though as it’s extremely fragile.

3. Cartouche

A kind of nameplate written in hieroglyphics. Most gold or silver shops sell these and many can customize them by engraving your name.

Festivals and events

Eid al-fitr.

After fasting for an entire month, Muslims celebrate the end of Ramadan with Eid al-Fitr, or ‘Feast of Breaking the Fast’. For three days, starting on the first day of the tenth month of the lunar calendar, people celebrate with feasts, family, and festivals. Look for vendors selling kahk cookies (nut-filled cookies covered in powdered sugar) while taking in the festivities, a tasty treat synonymous with Eid for many locals.

Eid al-Adha

Arguably the most important holiday in Egypt, the ‘Feast of Sacrifice’ is not one for vegetarians and vegans. About 70 days after Eid al-Fitr, sheep, and goats are slaughtered (often in the middle of the street) for a mighty feast.

Sham el-Nessim

Each year on March 21st, Egyptians celebrate the coming of spring by spending the day outdoors. Join the locals for this ancient holiday by packing a picnic and heading to a park or public garden.

Abu Simbel Sun Festival

As if the two temples dedicated to Ramses II and Queen Nefertari weren’t impressive enough, they were constructed in such a way that twice a year, the sun’s rays reach its innermost chambers and illuminate three stone gods that reside within, while leaving Ptah (god of the underworld) in the dark. And those days just happen to be Ramses’s birthday (October 21) and coronation (February 21). Coincidence? We think not.

Similar destinations

We have a variety of similar destinations, trips and routes that you could consider! Tie another trip into your holiday, or, see how we can help you get from A to B. We have tours departing from a number of locations across Africa. The options below may be of interest:

Cairo to Madaba

Amman to Madaba

Tours from Cairo

Tours to Cairo

Egypt or Jordan?

Do you need a visa to travel to Egypt?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in Egypt?

Tipping is customary for pretty much all services in Egypt. A tip of 10–15% is customary at cafes and restaurants and loose change is acceptable for food purchases from street vendors and markets. It’s also a good idea to tip local guides and drivers USD$2.50-3 per day.

What is the internet access like in Egypt?

Internet access is growing in Egypt, with internet cafes and Wi-Fi hotspots becoming increasingly common in large cities, especially Cairo, though access may be limited in smaller towns and remote areas.

Can I use my cell phone in Egypt?

Cell phone coverage is generally good in Egypt’s urban areas, but may not be available in remote and desert areas. Ensure global roaming is activated with your service provider before leaving home.

What are the toilets like in Egypt?

Squat toilets are most common in Egypt, although Western-style flushable toilets can be found in larger hotels and some tourist areas.

What will it cost for a...?

Egypt's unit of currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

A couple of pastries = EGP 49 Cup of tea or coffee = EGP 35-50 Falafel sandwich from a street stall = EGP 92 Sit-down dinner at a local restaurant = EGP 100-300

Can I drink the water in Egypt?

Drinking tap water isn’t recommended in Egypt. Remember to avoid drinks with ice and to peel fruit before eating it. Help the environment and try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle with filtered water. Ask your leader or hotel where to find filtered water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Egypt?

Credit cards are usually accepted by modern hotels, large retailers, and tourist sites but are less commonly accepted by smaller vendors in remote areas. Always carry enough cash for smaller purchases in case credit cards are not an option.

What is ATM access like in Egypt?

ATMs are commonly found in larger cities, like Cairo and Alexandria, near shopping centers, tourist areas, and 5-star hotels, but are far less common in small towns and rural areas. Make sure you have enough cash before leaving urban areas.

What public holidays are celebrated in Egypt?

7 Jan: Coptic Christmas
28 Apr: Coptic Easter*
25 Apr: Sinai Liberation Day
28 Apr: Sham el-Nessim*
1 May: Labor Day
5 Jun: Eid al-Fitr*
23 Jul: National Day
12 Aug: Eid al-Adha
11 Sep: Coptic New Year
1 Sep: Islamic New Year*
6 Oct: Armed Forces Day
10 Nov: Birth of Prophet Mohammed*
*Please note many of these public holidays are religious holidays and change each year as they are celebrated according to the Islamic lunar cycle. For a current list of public holidays in Egypt go to World Travel Guide's website.

Is Egypt a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Discretion is advised for LGBTQI travelers in Egypt. Though homosexuality is not officially outlawed, gay men have been prosecuted using debauchery and public morals laws and given long prison sentences. Be aware that signals are ambiguous in Egypt as men commonly hold hands, link arms and greet each other with a kiss on the cheek. As long as you use common sense, travel in Egypt should not be a problem.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

What to wear in Egypt

Summer temperatures can get very high, so light fabrics like linen, cotton and athletic gear made to take the heat are best. If you’re traveling outside of winter, don’t underestimate the cool change that can come in the evenings, especially if you’re spending the night in the desert or on a Nile cruise. Avoid packing anything in white – desert dust will quickly turn those light-colored clothes a not-so-delightful shade of brown.

How will I travel around Egypt?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Where will I stay in Egypt?

Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When traveling with us in Egypt you may find yourself staying in a:

Felucca Glide down the Nile on a traditional Egyptian felucca; sleep on deck under the stars as the sun slides away for the day - a must-do experience while in Egypt.

Homestay Be welcomed into the home of a local family and experience the cuisine, culture and customs of Egypt firsthand during your stay. A truly authentic travel experience like no other.

Desert camp Travel deep into the White Desert to camp under the stars amid surreal scenery. This is a rare chance to experience the remote wonder and isolation of the Egyptian desert.

With calming Red Sea views and fresh sea breezes, this rustic breach abode is all about life’s simple pleasures.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to: Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to: UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to: Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to: US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my trip to Egypt support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Egypt directly support our foundation partner, Animal Care in Egypt .

Animal Care in Egypt

Animal Care in Egypt (ACE) cares for sick or injured working animals, like horses and donkeys, in Upper Egypt. Donations from our trips help ACE provide free veterinary care and fund education programs that empower local people with the knowledge and skills to best look after their animals.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

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Your Egypt Vacation

Live like a pharaoh with an Egypt vacation package: Tour the father of African rivers, the Nile, see the pyramids up close, relax in 5-star style in cosmopolitan Cairo. Or set history aside and pack your bags for a Sharm el Sheikh Egypt vacation package where the diving is some of the best in the world, and the nightlife equals the luxury resorts that line the peninsula. This land may be home to one of the world’s oldest civilizations, but it leads the way in modern luxury. However, outside the hotels and apartments, things get beyond beautiful. Think sheltered sandy beaches, mangrove forests, coral reefs, and vast lakes. Pack your bags to experience it for yourself.

Top destinations in Egypt

Cairo which includes heritage architecture

Sharm El Sheikh

The Latest Egypt Vacation Packages

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Egypt Vacation

Famous for the Great Pyramids of Giza and the iconic Great Sphinx, its capital city, Cairo, is a melting pot of significant historical treasures, exotic smells and bustling bazaars. A trip to Egypt deserves a spot on every traveler’s bucket list.

Egypt Hotel + Flights

Bundling your hotel and flights with Expedia is a fantastic way to keep your budget in check. Starting at $19 a night, you can choose from at least 5,506 hotels here. Add flights, car rental and some incredible experiences to your Egypt Vacation Package to save even more on your adventure. If you love the idea of seeing the famous Giza pyramids from the back of a camel, why not add a private tour to your package as well?

Your Egypt Vacation Itinerary

Day 1: Start your Egypt vacation in Cairo at the awe-inspiring Great Pyramids of Giza. Stay for the sound and light show at nightfall, then spend the rest of the evening searching out traditional souvenirs at the colorful Khan el-Khalili Bazaar in the city’s historic center.

Day 2-3: Wander the halls of the world-renowned Cairo Museum, then ramp it up a few gears by tearing around in a dune buggy through the desert. Afterwards, feast on local delicacies with a dinner cruise on the River Nile.

Day 4-7: The ancient cities of Luxor, Karnak and the Valley of the Kings deserve a few full days of exploration. The valley, a great burial ground for pharaohs, is where you can visit the final resting place of King Tutankhamun.

Egypt Information

On the day after Ramadan (a month-long religious fast during daylight hours), the Egyptians celebrate all through the night. Join in with the locals at the street festivities, small fairs and open markets.

Cairo is rich with cultural and historic experiences. Spend some time discovering this ancient capital with a Cairo Vacation Package .

Egypt All Inclusive vacations are very popular, especially in the Red Sea region. Find one to suit your style and budget and let someone else take care of all the little details.

Top Vacation Destinations in Egypt

See the pyramids on a Giza vacation

Giza is home to the last remaining wonder of the ancient world. The pyramids here are what many travelers picture when they think of Egypt in the first place, and this is where you'll want to go to see them in person. These incredible structures are thousands of years old, with more time between their construction and the reign of Cleopatra than there is between Cleopatra and the moon landing.

Visit a megacity with Cairo vacation packages

The city of Cairo is one of the largest in Egypt and the Arab world at large, and you'll find virtually endless adventure within to enjoy. The modern city offers restaurants, malls, museums, and everything else you might expect, from bargain to upscale options. Historical sites are also available here, including the Giza pyramid complex and the ruins of Memphis.

Explore history with Luxor vacation packages

Luxor largely functions as an open-air museum that lets you explore some of the most well-preserved remnants from Ancient Egypt. The temple complexes at Luxor proper and Karnak can make you feel as if you've stepped back in time to what Thebes was like thousands of years ago. Plus, the city is able to keep the ruins so well preserved in large part due to traveler funds.

Enjoy the nightlife with Sharam El Sheikh vacation packages

Sharam El Sheikh is a town known for its stunning luxury resorts and nightlife, so this is a destination for travelers looking to live it up. The nightclubs and resorts tend to be near the coast as well, so you'll have easy access to a welcoming beachfront. In fact, the clarity of the water makes snorkeling and diving a common daytime activity here.

Egypt Essential Information

Prepare for your egypt vacation with our essential travel info, egypt hotel deals.

Reviewed on Jan 29, 2024

Reviewed on Mar 28, 2024

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Where to go when

Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in egypt, giza pyramid complex.

You can learn more about the history of Giza when you make a stop at a top site like Giza Pyramid Complex. Discover the area's museums and monuments.

Great Sphinx of Giza

Learn about the local history of Giza when you spend time at Great Sphinx of Giza. Wander around the area's picturesque gardens or experience its fascinating museums.

Egyptian Museum

Rich with history, Egyptian Museum is a cultural attraction worth visiting in Cairo. Wander around the area's picturesque gardens or experience its fascinating museums.

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Egypt Tours & Trips

From the Red Sea resort of Hurghada to the iconic facade of Abu Simbel, a good Egyptian vacation package delves deep into the ancient history of this Land of Pharaohs. Discover the treasures of King Tut in Cairo, wander through the Great Pyramids of Giza, get lost in the library of Alexandria, dip your toes in the crystal waters of Sharm-el-Sheikh or learn of legends gone by at the Valley of the Kings. Whether you want to travel by train or relax on a Nile River cruise adventure , a tour of Egypt and its land of wonders is hard to beat.

250+ Egypt tour packages with 11,733 reviews

In-depth Cultural
Christmas & New Year

Best of Egypt Luxury Tour

Have just finished my Egypt tour and it was hands down the best tour I’ve ever done! Mo our tour guide was amazing had a wealth of knowledge and was very passionate about everything he did. Would highly recommend.

€150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

River Cruise

Nile Jewel - 5* Cruise

A variety of experiences both day and night, cruise up the Nile was great, gravity resort was superb, pyramids awesome, lots of temples

10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Queen Cleopatra - 7 days

It was amazing to see all of the sights in Egypt, thank you to Mohammed in Cairo and Wael for being the great guide that he is! We had a great experience with all of the images brought to life with good explanations of Egyptian history and beliefs. We felt safe and looked after for the entire journey from start to finish. Sometimes it felt a bit rushed with the free time being too short, especially at the Giza Complex, and there was very little time to stop in between locations, especially on the longer sailing days. Make sure you get enough water and snacks when you can! I would also personally not recommend the Nubian Village extra. The boat ride there was the highlight but it seems very over-priced for what is essentially a boat return trip and a small shopping trip. Please offer a cheaper Aswan evening boat experience though the Nile instead! I would also recommend bring enough small cash notes etc, and taking out enough Egyptian pounds, for tips etc. The host can arrange for tipping to be paid for the drivers, boat staff, porters etc in advance, but it still felt awkward at some times. I would have been happier if we had not done it in advance but done everything individually day-by-day, but perhaps that would not work out for a group.

Pharaohs Nile Cruise Adventure - Return Intra-Flights Included

The tour has been excellent. From the pick up to the drop off, everything has been brilliant. The guides are thoughtful, they adapt to your individual needs and likes. The accommodation is wonderful, with in particular the Cairo hotel that was very close to a major shopping mall, which allowed me to get a local SIM card, and experience the huge mall. Each day was filled with interesting points of Egyptian history and everything was explained in-depth and all questions were answered. If I wanted to see something, I only had to ask and they made it happen. I'd highly recommend this tour as an introduction to Egypt.

9 Days Nile Jewel (Cairo, Cruise, Hurghada) Superior hotels

Our tour guide, Mansor, was not only knowledgeable but also brought a fun and enjoyable vibe to the journey.Thanks you

Coach / Bus

Felucca Odyssey (5 & 4 Star Hotels)

It was a wonderful trip with MO, he is very informative and tried his best to accommodate everyone’s needs.

Egypt Explorer - Felucca cruise & Red Sea

The overall trip was great, there are such amazing sites to see in egypt that left me in awe. The organisation of the tour however was pretty slack, with little communication especially the first couple of days. There was very little option for meals that wernt included and some days lunch was skipped and dinner had to be at the hotel which was over priced. So if you choose to go i wound 100% recommend you buy heaps of snacks for the meals you miss out on. Our tour guild Mina malik was extremely helpful and informative

Looking for tours beyond just Egypt?

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Essential Egypt (5 Star Hotels)

The whole tour was very well organised. Our guide Mo was very knowledgeable and passionate about the places we went to see. He knew all the tips and tricks to miss the crowds and how to deal with the locals trying to sell us their wares at each of the temples, even giving tips on how to barter and how much to pay. He was also very efficient at keeping us all on time and making sure that time wasn't wasted by waiting for people to get back to the coach. The tour ticked off all the places we wanted to see and in our case my husband wanted to also see the Bent and Red pyramids - Bishoo from TravelTalk dealt with all the arrangements to make sure he got to visit them on our last day. This was our first time doing a tour and it was a very positive experience, As a result we will be looking at what other tours TravelTalk run around the world for future trips. Can highly recommend this tour for discovering Essential Egypt and especially TravelTalk.

Goddess Hathor - 8 Days (5 stars)

Highly recommend this tour as I was very pleased with my experience. The tour was very informative. I learned a great deal about the Egyptian culture. The guides were very knowledgeable and super friendly.

Egypt Nile Jewel

Great trip! Our tour guide Ramiz explained the history excellently. I loved all of the sightseeing. Definitely recommend!

Egypt: Boats & Bazaars

Saad was the best tour guid I’ve ever had! His enthusiasm, passion and love for his job and his country was very obvious. He went above and beyond the duties of a tour leader and went at midnight with me to the airport to help me get my late baggage. I cannot day enough great things about him!

10-Day Ancient Egypt Tour with Nile Cruise

Very Pleasant Busy with tours of a lot of sites Nile cruise & Boat crew were excellent, Docked across from Luxor Temple. Food was great Tour guides went out of their way to answer many questions and assure us a wonderful trip with favorite restaurants, etc. Too bad vendors were so persistent, I would have enjoyed looking at some of their offerings more. Overall the trip of a life time for us. Hot Air Balloon ride was beyond expectations, smooth with Sunrise over the Nile & Temples. AA++

Egypt Adventure

The Intrepid tour and our guide was excellent! However, I booked my tour through TourRadar, and TourRadar was a disaster from beginning to end, with very slow responses to any questions. I received my voucher only one week before departure, and they did not pass over the information to Intrepid about my late arrival on the opening day. Originally, I was booked via TourRadar on a different tour with a different company, but this was cancelled by TourRadar only 6 weeks before departure and long after confirmation was given and I had booked my flight tickets. So it was pure luck that Intrepid had a tour on the same dates.

Cairo-Luxor-Aswan-Abu Simbel 9 Days with tour guided - domestic Flight

Food and Hotels are good. Cruise ship cabin is generally dirty and lack of repairs.

Best of Egypt

To Whom it may concern, this letter is being sent to issue the award for EXCELLANCE. my name is Oweda " Weasy " Gerald. my family, son Andrew " Dru " Gerald and daughter Rachel " Rae " Gerald selected Egypt for our family vacation. our transportation was ready and waiting for us @ the airport. we arrived on a late flight. We missed the meet and greet session. we were escorted to our room and received a call to return to the lobby. Mudi was there waiting to give us 3 the " meet and greet " we developed a fast friendship because he returned back to the hotel just for us. he escorted us to the dinning room where we had a pleasant interaction. also informed that we were waiting for another couple who arrived after us. we dined and received our morning instruction. By day 3 , our group became so close that we named our group " the Mudies ". ( of course I adopted him on the spot !!!! ) the following information are acts of kindness shown to group members that were only made public by those who receive great love and selflessness . this is Mudi . 1.) he made arrangement for a couple's lost luggage to be waiting for them when we arrived @ a tour destination. 2.) my late mothers camera slid out of my pocket , got stuck between bus seats on tour bus.my Kids mentioned it to Mudi. my camera was waiting for me @ the next hotel. 3.) one of our group members arrived ill and Mudi took him straight to the hospital , stayer with him and got all his prescription medication. once his health care services were complete , Mudi brought him to the hotel. We have traveled to all continents except the south pole over the years and Mudi is , by far the most AWESOME and WONDERFUL guide EVER. I saved the best for last. our farewell dinner happened to fall on my 62nd birthday. no one know but my children. guess what ??? I had a surprise party there on the spot with singing and dancing !! Mudi gave group attention as well as one-on-one attention. this is why he should be recognized as the tour guide of the year or of the century !! His devout and loving dedication to us and those before us should earn him this great honor. Respectfully Submitted, the entire Gerald Family.

What people love about Egypt Tours

Really enjoyed being in a small group instead of a traditional large group and our guide was great. This was a fast, hit-the-high points type of tour which is what we wanted; but, didn't really get to spend too much time at any one place. Didn't care for the hotel we were based out of - the rooms didn't have opaque walls between the bedroom and bathroom, just glass that was partly translucent; and, the hotel was a long ways away from everything.

I am coming into Luxor right now probably the most spectacular time ever. The boat is amazing the food is great the whole country is so accommodating. Our tour guide, anas, it is very entertaining but even more very informed he studied for years and knows all about the temples. I always thought I would just cross Egypt off on my bucket list but I'll find it hard not to return soon.

Egypt Destinations

Nile Valley (1098)
Valley Of The Kings (540)
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Egypt Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

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Deutsch: Ägypten Rundreisen
Français: Circuits et voyages en Égypte
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Nederlands: Egypte Rondreizen

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"I'll take you back in time to a land of ancient pyramids, royal tombs filled with gold and the mighty Nile, the world's longest river"

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View the Great Pyramids and Sphinx at Giza

We’ll take you deep into a history that spans millennia in the old kingdom of Egypt. Marvel at the Great Pyramids of Giza, the oldest of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World, and the only one to remain largely untouched. You’ll also meet the mythical Great Sphinx, one of the world’s oldest statues.

Wander through the Botanical Gardens on Kitchener's Island

See the locals fishing in the Nile waters, as we sail in a felucca to the Aswan Botanical Gardens on Kitchener’s Island. The island is peaceful and green, with a collection of rare and exotic plants that was initiated by Lord Kitchener. Roam the gardens and discover towering palms and views of the Nile.

See the Sultan Hassan Mosques in Cairo

Set in Cairo’s Old Town, the Sultan Hassan Mosque is one of the world’s most important mosques and a remarkable historical monument. It was constructed during the 14th century during the reign of Sultan Hassan, and you’ll marvel at the massive size and beautiful Mamluk architecture of the building.

Visit the Temple of Isis on the island of Philae

Take a boat ride to Philae Island, set between the Aswan Dams, where you’ll discover the ancient temple built to honor the goddess Isis. We’ll also take you to a Roman style theater on the island, for a retelling of the eternal Nile flood and the legends of the goddesses Isis and Hathor.

Be amazed by the Sound and Light show in Giza

We’ll return to the Great Pyramids of Giza after dark, where you’ll watch the pyramids light up in a dazzling sound and light show. You’ll learn the history of ancient Egypt as Egyptian Pharaohs rise to tell their stories, while lasers and lightbeams illuminate the walls of the ancient pyramids.

Our top 5 things to do in Egypt

Our Egypt holiday packages will reveal all the mysteries of Egypt, from monumental mosques and ancient temples, to the Great Pyramids of Giza.

Luxor Museum

With a massive collection of relics gathered from tombs and temples, the Luxor Museum is one of the best museums in Egypt. You can see treasures from the tomb of King Tutankhamun, the royal mummies of two pharaohs, and antiquities dating from the end of the Old Kingdom to the Mamluk period.

The Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum contains one of the world’s most important collections of ancient Egyptian antiquities. There are 120,000 item and you’ll discover jewellery, toys, the mummies of great pharaohs, and riches from the tomb of King Tutankhamen, including the Gold Mask of Tutankhamen, made of 11 kilograms of solid gold.

Deir El-bahri

Queen Hatshepsut's Temple

Built for the Eighteenth Dynasty pharaoh Hatshepsut, the Temple of Hatshepsut is one of the most extraordinary monuments of ancient Egypt. Carved into the towering limestone cliffs, the temple contains a chapel, sun court and sanctuary, and terraces that were once covered in frankincense and myrrh trees.

Best museums in Egypt

Our Egypt guided tours delve into the vast history of the country, with visits to the top museums including the Luxor and the grand Temple of Hatshepsut.

Hamam Mahshi

In Egypt, pigeons are marinated and stuffed with rice or freekeh, onions, giblets and a variety of spices like cumin, pepper and cinnamon. The whole bird is then grilled or spit-roasted, and while Egyptians traditionally eat hamam mahshi during celebratory occasions, you can also find it in restaurants around the country.

A classic Egyptian dish made of pita bread stuffed with minced meat, onions, parsley and onions, which is then baked in an oven. It’s traditionally made in Egyptian homes, although our Local Specialists will show you the best restaurants to try this delicious dish.

Kushari is Egypt’s favorite fast food, made from a bowl of macaroni, chickpeas, rice and black lentils covered in tomato sauce and fried onions. It’s then topped with spicy chilli sauce and garlic vinegar, and it’s one of the tastiest comfort foods in the country.

Best food in Egypt

Our Egypt vacation tours will reveal the country’s incredible cuisine, from classics like kebab and falafel to traditional favorites like hawawshi and kushari.

What to pack for Egypt

Adaptor plug

In Egypt, the standard voltage is 220 V and the power plugs and sockets are of type C and F. The standard frequency is 50 Hz.

Comfortable shoes

From exploring the Great Pyramids of Giza, to wandering the Botanical Gardens, you’ll need a comfortable pair of shoes on your Egypt holiday.

Light clothing

Egypt is known for its blazing heat, so it’s best to wear light, loose-fit clothing. Since Egypt is a Muslim country, you’ll need to ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.

The sunshine can be blinding in Egypt, so bring a pair of sunglasses to protect you from the sun rays and the sandy desert.

Protect yourself from the sun with SPF 30 or higher and be sure to apply it regularly. It’s also advised to bring a hat and a light scarf to shield your skin.

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14 things to know to help you plan the perfect trip to Egypt

Aug 18, 2023 • 9 min read

Plan the perfect trip to Egypt with these essential tips on etiquette, health and safety © Grant Faint / Getty Images

Egypt’s rich history reverberates through its modern-day culture. There’s plenty to do that will engage all your senses, from majestic ancient sights to lively streets rife with aromatic foods, and the vibrant and eclectic nightlife.

To fully indulge in all the excitement, there are some things you should consider, including the country’s cultural traditions. But worry not: this guide to planning and packing along with tips on health, safety and etiquette will have you ready for the a fantastic experience in Egypt.

1. Consider getting your visa in advance

Bags in one hand and paperwork in the other is all many travelers need to get on a plane and fly to Egypt. If you’re eligible , you can get a renewable single-entry tourist visa on arrival for USD$25, valid for 30 days. However, if you’re missing any documents or if there’s a problem processing your visa on arrival, you may be denied entry.

If you prefer a multiple-entry visa or want to avoid lines at the airport, you can apply for an e-Visa through the official government portal before travel to avoid any entry issues or delays.

Two figures lie in a turquoise lake surrounded by sandy desert

2. Prepare a rough itinerary

There’s so much more to Egypt than the pyramids, and planning ahead will help you avoid a logistical nightmare. Plan your days by area (especially in major cities where traffic is both intense and unpredictable) so it’s easier to move around between locations.

If you’re a beach lover , there are plenty of destinations on the North Coast or Naama Bay for diving or snorkeling trips. If you’re an avid explorer and prefer something off the beaten track , Egypt’s lesser-known gems – like the stunning Siwa Oasis – are absolutely worth the adventure.

Egypt truly caters to every kind of traveler, and the best way to create a personalized experience is to focus on what’s important to you and plan accordingly.

3. Learn some basic Arabic phrases

Whipping out Google Translate for quick questions about directions can be helpful, but organic responses to basic niceties will prove useful.

Most Egyptians are eager to help when asked, but you might need to tie up a few odds and ends in Arabic with unilingual locals. They also come in handy if you need to fend off hustlers or persistent merchants. Learning a few words and phrases like “ al salam alaykom ” (hello), “ shukran ” (thank you), “ aywa ” (yes), “ la’a ” (no), and “ ma’ al-salama ” (goodbye) will go a long way.

4. Don’t underestimate Egypt’s weather – both hot and cold

Sunscreen is key if you don’t want to spend the better half of your vacation huddled up with ice packs. This is especially true if you’re visiting during the summer, but holds up throughout the year.

July is the hottest month, with temperatures ranging anywhere from 34.7°C (94.5°F) to a scorching 43.3°C (109.9°F). Yet, despite its year-round sunny skies, Egypt’s overall desert climate makes winters especially cold – the kind of cold that creeps beneath your clothes and gives you chills right down to your bones.

It doesn’t help that the poorly insulated buildings barely keep the freezing weather at bay, so you have to talk yourself into going outside because it’s warmer outdoors than it is indoors. Temperatures drop as low as 10°C (50°F) at times, so if you’re visiting between October and March , make sure to pack some warm clothes along with your sunscreen.

5. Pack for the heat, but keep it conservative

Egypt is known for its cotton, and what better place to wear cotton than here. Pack airy breathable clothes, and break out all the pastels and bright colors in your closet. Most people in major cities dress casually and embrace comfort over fashion. But remember that Egypt is a country with primarily conservative locals.

You can’t go wrong with loose clothing, and exposing too much skin is generally frowned upon. Men can sport tank tops if they’re comfortable with a few extra stares, but short shorts are not advisable, and women should avoid low-cut tops, short shorts/skirts or revealing dresses.

Beach destinations bend these unspoken rules, however, and locals are accommodating to visitors, so if you're heading for the beach, you don't need to leave all your shorts and sundresses behind.

6. Keep transportation in mind when booking accommodation

While booking your lodgings, look into modes of transportation in the surrounding area. If you’re planning a short time in your destination, opt for lodgings central to the sights on your itinerary or close to a metro station so you don’t waste too much time stuck in traffic. If you’ve got more time, you can opt for something a little less central, but remember that you could spend a chunk of your time traveling.

Cairo and Giza are mostly accessible using the metro system, and if you’re a female traveler we recommend you seek out the carriages reserved for women.

Some destinations will require further planning, and white taxis and Uber rides are your best bet. If you opt for a white taxi, always make sure the meter’s running before you hop in, and hail it a few meters away from your hotel for a cheaper ride. Avoid taxis that don’t use meters and aren’t very tourist-friendly. Long-distance buses and domestic flights are an option too, depending on your budget.

7. Be mindful of your etiquette at religious and historic sites

It’s important to not just dress appropriately but to also be mindful of local etiquette especially at certain sights.

Visiting a mosque? Take off your shoes before entering and, if you’re female, cover your head.

At a historic site? Don’t touch the antiquities and always use cameras without the flash.

On the beach? Yes you can sport your best swimsuit and relax, but like every place in the world, there’s always a code of conduct. Be observant and if in doubt, do what the locals do.

Local tip: Photography is encouraged at tourist sites, but don’t photograph people without their consent, and don't take photos where it is explicitly prohibited.

8. Avoid public displays of affection

We’ve established that Egypt leans toward conservative, and this extends to public displays of affection. While holding hands with your partner won’t garner much attention, limit your public physical interactions to what would be considered mild and proper.

Platonic kisses on the cheek are a common greeting between friends in Egypt but, depending on your surroundings, should be limited to members of the same sex.

9. Bring small bills and be prepared to tip

Tipping in Egypt is still standard practice, especially in the service industry. Tips, or baksheesh , can range from 5 EGP (<$0.50) to 100 EGP ($5.50), depending on who you are paying and where.

Egypt is largely cash-oriented, so pick up both large and small bills when you’re exchanging currency to make payments and tipping easier.

Restaurants and cafes are easier to figure out, with 10-15% of the bill being customary, and loose change is the norm for food purchases from street vendors. Higher tips are usually reserved for people who provide you with long-term services, such as drivers and tour guides. While you’re not required to tip delivery services, taxis, and ride-hailing apps, you can round up the bill if you’ve had a satisfying experience.

A shop in a market with colorful lights and lanterns displayed all over the walls

10. Haggling for souvenirs is part of the experience

From papyrus papers and traditional souvenirs to carefully crafted silverware and hand-painted ceramics, markets in Egypt are a treasure trove. But if you feel like something is overpriced, don’t shy away from haggling.

While vendors aren’t particularly fond of the back-and-forth, it’s all part of the experience and no matter what you pay in the end you can convince yourself it was a great deal.

Don’t attempt to haggle in bigger shops in or outside tourist attractions, and if there’s an official price posted on the product, it’s usually non-negotiable.

Pro tip: Keep your eyes and ears open and gauge the price range of similar items in nearby stores so you can tell if you’re being overcharged. Haggling is mainly confined to souvenir spots, souks (markets) and less formal selling areas.

11. Don't drink the tap water and beware of food carts

To dodge any stomach bugs that might ruin your Egyptian adventure, avoid drinking tap water unless it’s filtered, especially if you have a sensitive stomach. Pack a good water-filtering system or do like the locals and use bottled water.

While Egyptian cuisine is one of the country’s best assets, and the temptation to sample it every chance you get is understandable, some carts improperly store their food. It can be difficult to tell as a visitor, so it may be wise to opt for local shops instead. They often offer similar food but are generally safer to indulge to your heart’s content.

12. Flood season is June to September

Flooding is an issue in Egypt in June to September, but it’s usually mild and mostly limited to some coastal areas. It’s always a good idea to activate news alerts on your phone anyway and keep an eye on the local news.

The floods are usually easy to manage, but roads can be impacted, especially in some areas in South Sinai.

Four women stand on a train platform. The waiting train has female-only symbols above the carriage doors

13. Solo female travelers may receive unwanted attention

If you’re a woman traveling on your own , keep an eye out for harassers, scammers and hustlers who may be pushy and persistent. Confident interactions are often key to driving them away, but calling out for assistance or announcing you’ll involve the police can be a good deterrent as well.

As a rule of thumb, try to avoid interactions with individuals in suspicious settings, like quiet alleyways, dark street corners, and empty spots, and look for crowds with women and children if you feel unsafe. Never get into a taxi or Uber with anyone but the driver. Ride in the carriages reserved for women on the metro in Cairo. And, as is sadly the case in most of the world, avoid walking alone late at night.

14. Tourist police can assist you in an emergency

Egypt is generally considered safe to visit, but if you face any issues that you believe require law enforcement interference, look for police officers with a tourism police badge on their shoulders – it’s a navy blue half sleeve with a gold eagle in the middle, and “Tourism and Antiquities Police” written at the bottom. They are stationed at every tourist destination in Egypt and can also be reached by dialing 126 from any Egyptian mobile number.

If you’d rather file a complaint later, you can dial 19654 and communicate directly with the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. It's also a good idea to keep the number of your home embassy or consulate handy.

Pro tip: Invest in an Egyptian SIM card upon arrival. They’re cheap and will make local interactions much easier for you. Vodafone, Etisalat, Orange and WE are Egypt’s top mobile service providers; you can find their booths in the final hall on your way out of Cairo International Airport.

This article was first published July 2022 and updated August 2023

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Egypt Travel Guide

Sail the Nile River and discover the land of mysteries. Pyramids, ancient temples, and artifacts.

Best time to visit Egypt

Best places to visit in egypt, egypt travel guide: best places to visit, 7 best things to do in cairo, egypt, visit the colorful nubian villages in egypt, 7 best things to do in luxor, egypt, map of egypt, weather in egypt.

Egypt’s weather is dry year-round, seeing very little rain. Summers are intense, experiencing high temperatures that can reach 40°C. Visiting between October and April is much more bearable, with comfortable temperatures making it perfect for exploring.

How to get a visa for Egypt

Best travel insurances.

Find Hotels via Booking.com
Find Hostels via Hostelworld
Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
Find Flights to Egypt via Skyscanner
Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
Book Tours & Attractions via Viator
Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go
Get a Visa via iVisa
How to pack light for your trip
How to plan your trip our tips

Why is Egypt worth visiting?

Egypt is a living history book. Wander the ancient temples and the world-famous pyramids, explore beautiful landscapes and colorful villages, or relax on golden beaches and dive into the vibrant waters of the Red Sea; Egypt is full of wonders.

Is Egypt cheap to visit?

Egypt is a budget-friendly treasure trove! While luxury experiences are available, with hostels starting from $10 per night and meals for just $4, it’s easy to experience the country’s incredible sights without breaking the bank.

Can I drink tap water in Egypt?

It’s recommended to steer clear of tap water throughout Egypt. Stay refreshed by bringing a reusable water bottle, refilling at your hotel and restaurants with filtered water, or getting an in-built filter system.

Do I need a visa for traveling in Egypt?

Nearly all countries require a visa to enter Egypt. Thankfully, getting a single entry visa (valid for a maximum of 30 days) is a relatively simple process, either purchasing it online, at the Egyptian embassy, or on arrival.

What language do they speak in Egypt?

Arabic is the official language spoken in Egypt, with different dialects depending on the region. The majority of the population can also speak English, so you’ll have no problem connecting with locals as you travel around Egypt.

Do I need travel insurance for Egypt?

Travel insurance protects you wherever you go. From unexpected medical emergencies to lost luggage, ensuring your holiday in Egypt is worry-free.

Is Egypt safe?

Egypt is a relatively safe place for travelers. Crime rates are low, but expect scam artists and pickpocketers in tourist hotspots. Staying cautious means you can explore this mysterious country worry-free.

What power plug type does Egypt have?

Type C and F are the two types of plugs used in Egypt. They have two round pins, but type F also has two earth clips on the side. Purchasing an international plug adapter ensures you’ll always have the correct plug type, keeping you connected as you explore ancient wonders.

Why do people love Egypt?

Egypt is a country steeped in history and cultural treasures, enticing travelers from all over the world. With the mystical allure of the pyramids and temples, passion from the locals, and the enticing Red Sea, Egypt is a unique place that captivates the hearts of many.

Travel to Egypt

A destination full of mysteries, Egypt feels like stepping back in time. From the iconic Pyramids of Giza to the bustling markets of Cairo , Egypt is a treasure trove of history and adventure. It is a place where landscapes vary, home to bustling cities, colorful villages, crystal clear salt lakes, vast deserts full of artifacts and rock formations, tranquil rivers, and magnificent coastlines with bright blue sea. A vacation in Egypt offers endless wonders to see!

How to plan your trip to Egypt

Due to being a time-consuming destination to travel around, we’d recommend following our 10-day Egypt travel guide to visit some of the best places in Egypt without feeling rushed. Spend your days getting lost in the chaotic city of Cairo , wandering around the world’s largest open-air museum in Luxor , sailing down the Nile to Aswan, taking in the incredible sight that is Abu Simbel, and strolling the colorful Nubian village . End your trip by relaxing and snorkeling at the chilled backpacker town of Dahab on the Red Sea.

Tip: Travel in Egypt can be a little hectic, so joining a tour can be a great way to see the country. Find the best tours .

Egypt is stunning year-round, seeing limited rainfall and beautiful sunny days. With varying temperatures throughout the year, choosing the best time to visit Egypt depends on your preferences.

Summer: The summer months in Egypt can get extremely hot, making exploring all the incredible sights a little unbearable. But if you’re planning to bask in the sun at one of the beach towns or looking for the best chance to spot hammerhead sharks and dolphins during your diving adventures, this may be the perfect time to visit.

Winter: From October until April, the weather in Egypt is at its best. The temperature in the daytime is much more comfortable, and nights are cool and refreshing, perfect for backpacking around the beautiful country and visiting the historic desert sites. December and January can be very busy, so it’s worth avoiding these months.

Coastlines and beaches in Egypt

Beyond the iconic temples and pyramids, Egypt boasts stunning coastlines ready for sun-seekers and ocean enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for serenity or adventure, Egypt beaches are a haven for all.

Along Egypt’s eastern coast, the Red Sea has some of the world’s most spectacular underwater landscapes, with unspoiled coral reefs teeming with marine life. From the lively beach town of Sharm El Sheikh, ideal for those who prefer staying in resorts, to the chilled, laid-back charm of Dahab, home to the Blue Hole, the Red Sea is one of the best places to visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers, catering to every type of traveler.

For those looking for pristine white sand beaches with historic charm, the Mediterranean Sea on Egypt’s northern coastline is the place to go. The towns of Marsa Matruh and El Alamein not only have breathtaking white sand beaches and lagoons but also show remnants from WWII.

Egypt’s coastlines are vibrant and full of life, offering the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re diving into the colorful underwater world of the Red Sea or strolling along the shores of the Mediterranean, Egypt’s beaches are nothing short of spectacular!

Food, culture and religion in Egypt:

Hearing the peaceful calls to prayer, experiencing the aromas wafting through the bustling souks, and exploring the ancient temples, Egypt is a land where history and culture combine, creating something magical.

Egyptian cuisine is simple and full of spices, heavily influenced by Middle Eastern and African dishes and incorporating Mediterranean flavors, with unique dishes like Koshari, Egypt’s national dish (a mix of fried rice, pasta, and lentils topped with spicy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions), or the ancient dish of Ful Medames, made with slow-coked fava beans, cumin, and olive oil. With the majority of the population following the Islamic faith, food is a social occasion traditionally consisting of many dishes to enjoy.

Beyond the cuisine, Egypt’s culture is shaped by its long history and religious influences. From magnificent temples and lively souks to the warmth of the locals eager to share stories and family honor, you’ll experience a deeper understanding of the cultural richness that defines Egypt as you travel through the bustling streets and historic sites.

Why you should travel to Egypt:

A journey through Egypt will leave you speechless. Whether you seek adventure in the boundless deserts, relaxation on pristine beaches, or to immerse yourself in ancient history, there are many amazing things to do in Egypt .

With a sunny climate year-round and the opportunity to travel on any budget, Egypt is an extraordinary destination to explore. Wake up to the birds chirping and the call to prayer as you sail down the Nile, visiting mesmerizing destinations like Aswan and Luxor en route. Head off the beaten track to the breathtaking natural beauty of the salt lakes in Siwa Oasis and the rock formations in the White Desert National Park. Unwind in the many coastal towns full of colorful marine life. Don’t miss this unique and unforgettable destination!

Safety and travel advice Egypt

When it comes to safety in Egypt , it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest travel advice to ensure you have a fantastic, risk-free adventure.

Natural Disasters: Natural disasters, like earthquakes and sand storms, are fairly rare in Egypt but can happen. Register your trip with the embassy to receive emergency updates when traveling through Egypt.

Crime and Safety in Egypt : Petty crime can occur in tourist hotspots, particularly focusing on scamming travelers. For instance, if you’re told there is a shortcut or the entrance you’re heading to is closed, it’s almost certain that isn’t the case, and they’re trying to get some money from you. Downloading offline maps so you always know where you’re heading and keeping your wits about you will prevent these experiences.

While this shouldn’t deter you from visiting this mysterious landscape, Egypt is at risk of terrorism, so always stay vigilant and follow advice from local authorities.

Learn more about travel safety .

Traffic: Traffic in Egypt can be hectic, particularly in Cairo, and road conditions can be poor. It’s worth using taxis, hiring a driver, or joining an organized tour rather than driving yourself while on your vacation in Egypt.

Travel Insurance: We highly recommend getting travel insurance for your holiday in Egypt . With many outdoor and adventurous activities you can do, like hot air balloon rides, diving, and quad biking, having insurance allows you to enjoy these experiences with full peace of mind. It’ll also cover you if your luggage gets lost or your flights get canceled.

Find the best travel insurance .

Destinations

Wild Junket

2-Week Egypt Itinerary

Last Updated on March 6, 2024

Always dreamt of visiting Egypt? Plan an adventure of a lifetime with my 2-week Egypt itinerary, designed for first-time visitors.

Egypt is the stuff of dreams: it’s home to the ancient Giza pyramids , the sprawling Valley of the Kings where over 63 ancient Pharaohs were buried, and the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum . Plus vast deserts, Nubian villages and miles and miles beaches along the Red Sea coast.

Like the Nile, Egypt is overflowing — overflowing with treasure-filled tombs, thousand-year-old mummies and immaculately preserved temples. It is nearly impossible for the casual traveler to see everything. Having just returned from a second trip to Egypt, I’ve found that its historical treasures are still as impressive, but Egypt needs tourists now more than ever.

Table of Contents

My Egypt Itinerary Map

Is egypt safe to visit, travel insurance for egypt, how to get to egypt, best time to visit egypt, do you need to book a tour in egypt, by taxi and uber, marvel the giza pyramids, visiting the giza pyramids: things you need to know, visit the dahshur pyramids, see egypt’s oldest pyramid at saqqara, explore the ancient capital of memphis, watch the pyramids light show from your hotel, where to stay in cairo, visit the museum of egyptian antiquities, go to the top of cairo tower, visit the coptic museum, head to the hanging church, catch a glimpse of ben ezra synagogue, get lost in khan al-khalili bazaar, meander along muizz street, enjoy a stroll in al azhar park, enter the cairo citadel, visit the impressive mosque of muhammed ali, stroll along the corniche, hop on a felucca, visit elephantine island, explore aswan botanical gardens, take a camel to the monastery of st simeon, visit the tombs of the nobles, where to stay in aswan, have a drink at solaih nubian restaurant, visit the nubia museum, see the unfinished obelisk.

Egypt Itinerary Day 6: Abu Simbel Day Trip

Explore Karnak Temple

Wander around luxor souk, lunch with a view, visit luxor temple by night.

Dinner at Al Sahaby Lane

Budget: Nefertiti Hotel Luxor

Mid range: sonesta saint george, luxury: sofitel winter palace luxor.

Go on a Hot Air Balloon

Visit the Valley of the Kings

Best tombs to visit:, wander around the temple of hatshepsut, see the colossi of memnon, visit the luxor museum, see the mummification museum, lunch at sofra restaurant, relax by the nile, relax by the red sea, where to stay in hurghada.

Egypt Itinerary Day 11: Day Trip to Giftun Island

Explore the Hurghada Souk

Visit the mosque, stroll along the hurghada marina at night.

Egypt Itinerary Day 13: Fly Back to Cairo
How to Dress in Egypt

How to Get Around Egypt

Egypt is a big country and distances are long — but it’s incredibly easy to travel from one city to another in Egypt. The best way to go from Cairo to Luxor/Aswan/Hurghada is flying. Domestic flights on EgyptAir is cheap and saves 10+ hours of travel. Flights from Cairo to Luxor cost around $40 each way and Cairo to Aswan $60.

For short distances, I recommend taking the train. The Egyptian Railway is good, comfortable and cheap. The best thing about the railway system is that it runs along the Nile River and you get great views as it trots parallel to the waterway.

The night train from Cairo to Luxor is a popular route, but I don’t recommend taking it. First it’s expensive at US$100 each way (flights are cheaper). If you have the time, take the day train instead, it’s much cheaper at only $15-20 each way. Check train schedule and fare here.

Buses are the cheapest way to get around Egypt. Go Bus is a popular bus company that runs popular routes like Luxor-Hurghada. It’s cheap and comfortable — first-class seats are wide, reclining leather seats with Wifi, your own screen, and free meals included.

Uber only works in certain cities, like Cairo and Hurghada, but it’s a lifesaver for travelers like me who don’t want to be haggling all the time. Uber drivers are respectful and trustworthy. Taxi drivers on the other hand might try to overcharge you — I met one who tried to sell me hashish and offer me “a sexy time”.

Cairo Itinerary Day 1: See the Ancient Pyramids

Most people start their Egypt trip in Cairo as it’s home to the world-famous Pyramids. I recommend spending at least 3 days in Cairo to explore the sights at a comfortable pace. Check out my Cairo itinerary for more details.

On your first day, head straight to the Giza plateau to see the most iconic historical site of the world. For nearly 4000 years, nine impeccably built pyramids have stood on this plateau, built as massive tombs on the orders of the pharaohs. Today they stand as a tribute to the achievements of ancient Egypt.

Of the three pyramids at Giza, the Great Pyramid is the largest — and it’s the only ancient wonder of the world left . You can actually enter the Great Pyramid (with an extra ticket) and climb the steep stairs that lead to the King’s Chamber. It’s definitely worthwhile to venture inside, but some might feel claustrophobic inside.

Prepare to spend at least three hours at the Giza Pyramids. That should give you enough time to walk all over the plateau, go inside one of the pyramids, take a horse or camel to the panoramic point, see the Sphinx and the visit the Solar Boat.

You’d be forgiven to think the Pyramids of Giza are located in the middle of a desert. The ancient site is actually surrounded by houses, shops, restaurants and dusty roads. You can easily find restaurants just outside of the exit by the Sphinx, including the famous Abou Shakra .

Go early, preferably around 8am. The tour buses start arriving around 10-11 am. During my visit in March, it was close to empty due to the pandemic; but usually Giza plateau gets very crowded.
If you’re visiting on your own, you can easily take an Uber to the main entrance. A ride from any hotel in Giza costs around 15 to 20 EGP ($1-1.50).
Be prepared for a lot of hassling here — female vendors shoving t-shirts into your bags, men draping scarves on you without asking. Avoid eye contact, smile and keep moving.
There’ll be tourist touts following you everywhere. Most say they’re official guides from the Pyramids and that their service is free. At the end of it, they’ll ask for a big tip.
The Sphinx is included in your ticket. The Solar Boat however requires an extra ticket, but I don’t think it’s worth it (based on my first visit there 13 years ago).
To explore the Pyramid ground, you can technically walk everywhere. Most people hire a horse cart or a camel (which adds to the experience, though it’s not quite as comfortable as it looks). The official price of a camel ride is 350 EGP ($20) per hour.

camel ride at the pyramids - cairo travel guide

In the afternoon, head over to the town of Dahshur, about an hour’s drive from Giza. This area is not easy to get to, so I advice booking a day tour. On my first trip to Egypt, I booked this full-day day tour with a guide who really made the history come alive.

The two main pyramids to visit in Dashur are the Bent Pyramid and Red Pyramid . The “bent” pyramid has an unusual appearance is unusual. The first 49 metres, which have largely kept their smooth limestone casing, are built at a steep 54 degree angle, before tapering off towards the top.

The angular shape contrasts with the straight sides of Sneferu’s Red Pyramid just to the north. The Red Pyramid, named for the rusty hues of the red limestone, was Sneferu’s third pyramid.

what to do in egypt in 2 weeks - bent pyramid

Saqqara is the largest archaeological site in the country. The vast necropolis is home to eleven pyramids in total – the burial places of the pharaohs – amongst which several are magnificent examples of ancient art and architecture.

The most prominent site is the Step Pyramid of Djoser, that stands over 200 feet (60 m) tall, with a base of 358 feet by 397 feet (109 m by 121 m). It was the Egyptian’s first successful attempt to build a pyramid, and is one of the world’s oldest monumental cut stone structures.

Memphis was once the ancient capital of Egypt. It was the country’s center of commerce and trade and an important religious center. Today, what is left of the ancient city is collected in the Memphis Open Air Museum .

The highlight of Memphis is undoubtedly the magnificent fallen colossal limestone statue of Ramses II . At 33 ft (10m) tall, it’s massive and really gives a sense of the magnitude of the temple during its heydays.

In the evening, head back to your hotel and catch the Sound and Light show at the Pyramids ( skip to my recommendations for hotels with Pyramids view ). This show takes place every evening at 7pm October – April and at 7:30pm May – September. During Ramadan the starting time is pushed to 8:30pm.

It’s rather kitsch to be honest, with neon green, red and yellow lights flashing about. I wouldn’t recommend going to the Pyramids for the show ( tours cost around $50 ) — instead just enjoy the view from your room for free.

pyramids sound and light show cairo - cairo itinerary 3 days - cairo pyramids

There are two main areas to stay in Cairo: one is Downtown Cairo and the other is Giza . Downtown Cairo is mayhem, but you’ll be staying within easy reach from the museums and markets. Personally, I prefer to stay in Giza, as it’s much calmer and you can stay steps away from the Pyramids.

Budget: Giza Pyramids Inn

Located across the street from the Sphinx entrance gate, this is the budget hotel with the best location in town. Sunset on its rooftop is spectacular. Rooms are simple but very cheap. Check rates here.

Mid Range: Pyramids Eyes Hotel

I stayed in this well-priced hotel (pictured) with huge rooms that offer unobstructed views of the Pyramids (around $45/night). It’s still a 5-minute Uber ride from the Pyramids, but waking up to that spectacular sight is priceless. Check rates here.

Luxury: Marriott Mena House Cairo

The closest hotel to the Pyramids, Marriott Mena House is a lavish five-star hotel with landscaped gardens, upscale restaurant and the best sunset views in town. Definitely worthwhile to splurge here! Check rates here.

egypt itinerary - hotel in giza pyramids

Cairo Itinerary Day 2: Explore Coptic Cairo

Next morning, head to the Egyptian Museum , where almost all of Egypt’s most highly priced treasures are stored. This is a must visit —preferably with an Egyptologist in tow. Book a guided tour here.

Inside, the grand ground floor features a variety of sacorphagus, giant stone sculptures and coffins. The first floor houses two rooms of mummies. The most intriguing attraction at the museum is Tutankhamun’s tomb , displayed alongside his complex gold coffins, gold trinkets, objects, and jewelry.

NOTE : The museum’s treasures will be relocated to the new Grand Egyptian Museum, scheduled to open in late 2021 on the Giza Plateau.

From there, walk across the Nile River and head up to the highest floor (62nd level) of the Cairo Tower . This is where you get the best view of the city . Have a simple lunch at the cafe below the panoramic deck and enjoy your meal with a view.

Entry costs 200 EGP ($12). If you want to take photos with a DSLR, you’ll need to pay a whopping 300 EGP ($18) extra for it. I suggest storing your camera in the locker and use your phone to snap photos instead.

TIP: There’s a strong restriction on taking photos with DSLR almost everywhere in Egypt (due to security). Anywhere that allows it will charge a hefty fee for it. BUT taking photos with a phone is allowed and free everywhere!

Take an Uber or taxi to the Coptic Museum . The Copts follow a denomination of Christianity and Cairo is home to the largest Copts population in North Africa. Copts are actually the closest descendants of Ancient Egyptians.

A great place to learn more about the Copts, the Coptic Museum houses Coptic art from the earliest days of Christianity in Egypt right through to early Islam. It is a beautiful place, as much for the elaborate woodcarving in all the galleries as for the treasures they contain.

cairo coptic museum - egypt 14 day itinerary

The most famous church in this district known as Coptic Cairo (Masr al-Qadima) is the Hanging Church . Contrary to what its name implies, the Hanging Church—Al Moallaqa—is not actually suspended from anything. Its moniker comes from the fact that it’s built on top of the gates of an old Roman fortress.

TIP : The Hanging Church is free to enter. It’s open every day from 9am-5pm. There is no strict dress code, but it’s wise to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

hanging church cairo - egypt travel blog

Behind the Hanging Church, you’ll find the Ben Ezra Synagogue, an architectural gem and one of the last remaining testaments to the once-vibrant Egyptian Jewish community. According to local folklore, this was where baby Moses was found.

For dinner, kick back after a busy day of sightseeing at Zooba . This modern Cairo-based chain is a great spot to try Egyptian street food bites in colorful spaces. It’s so popular among locals that it’s opened up branches in US and Saudi Arabia.

Cairo Itinerary Day 3: Get to Know Islamic Cairo

Start your day at Cairo’s largest and most vibrant souk, Khan Al-Khalili . You’ll find everything from frankincense to lamps and jewelry shops. Originally built as a mausoleum for the Fatimid caliphs, the complex features Ottoman architectural style.

One place you shouldn’t miss is the hundred-year-old café Fishawi , best known for its Egyptian-style coffee and ambience. The shop has served international celebrities in the likes of Egyptian Nobel Laureate author Naguib Mahfouz and Will Smith.

khan al khalili - cairo's biggest market

A short walk north of Khan Al Khalili is the bustling Muizz Street , dubbed the “world’s largest open-air museum of Islamic monuments”. The street is flanked by some of Egypt’s oldest and grandest structures, as well as a series of antique shops.

A stroll reveals architecture from dynasties that have ruled the city in different eras—from the Fatimid dynasty in A.D. 970 to the more recent Pasha rule. Home to the Qalawun Complex, it also houses a spectacular mausoleum and impressive Mamluk architecture, including a minaret within a dome.

muizz street cairo - top sights in egypt

Catch a short Uber ride to Al-Azhar Park , Cairo’s greenest space. The gated park was originally a landfill, and was transformed into an urban attraction in 2005. Entrance is 25 EGP ($1.50) for adults.

Sprawling over 74 acres of central city land, it is a veritable oasis among the urban hustle of Cairo. After a walk, have lunch at the Citadel View Restaurant , and watch kids splashing in the fountains and locals enjoying a picnic on the green lawns. The traditional Egyptian fare here is fantastic and outdoor terrace is glorious.

A short walk from the park is the Cairo Citadel . The medieval fortification was the seat of government in Egypt and the residence of its rulers for nearly 700 years from the 13th to the 19th centuries.

Its location on a promontory of the Mokattam hills commands a strategic position overlooking the city and dominating its skyline. In 1976, it was proclaimed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site . Entrance is 180 EGP ($11) and includes entry to the mosques and museums inside.

The biggest attraction within the 12th century Citadel walls is the Mosque of Muhammed Ali. Situated on the summit of the citadel, this Ottoman mosque was the largest to be built in the 19th century.

With its animated silhouette and twin minarets, this is the most visible mosque in Cairo. The best time to visit is right before sunset as you can see how the city transforms from this elevated view.

Egypt Itinerary Day 4: Fly to Aswan

Next day, catch a morning flight to Aswan in southern Egypt. The flight on Egypt Air usually takes 1.5 hours and costs around $100 each way. If you prefer slow travel, catch the night train from Cairo and watch the backcountry of Egypt through whisk by (at the same price as the flight).

Coming from Cairo, you’ll welcome the slower pace and calmer vibes. Located across the border from Sudan, low-key Aswan offers the chance to catch your breath after the nerve-fraying, car-horn-tooting bedlam of Cairo. For more details, check out my list of things to do in Aswan .

One of Aswan’s great joys is simply strolling the east bank’s Corniche , watching traditional feluccas weave their way through the islands. Aswan’s real charm has always been its ambience rather than its sights. After checking into your hotel, spend some time aimlessly ambling along this Nile-side promenade.

If you’re only going to board a felucca on the Nile once, it better be in Aswan. There’s so much to see in this part of the Nile that you can easily weave many sightseeing spots into a half-day felucca ride. (Continue reading for what to see on a felucca journey.) A 1-hour ride costs around 80 EGP ($5), while a full-day felucca journey will set you back around 500 EGP ($30).

take a felucca on the nile - egypt top things to do

One of the most popular spots to visit on a felucca ride is the Elephantine Island (Gharb Aswan) on the west bank. You can also take a public ferry, which leaves next to the KFC on the Aswan quay and costs just 5 EGP.

The island is a great spot to experience traditional Nubian village life. Elephantine Island’s two neighboring villages of Siou and Koti are a maze of wriggling lanes lined with squat mudbrick houses. The Nubians traditionally live in houses painted in bright, vivid colors, which are an interesting sight.

While on Elephantine Island, don’t miss Animalia , a little museum brimming with Nubian artifacts and home to a lovely terrace that makes for a great place for a tea pit stop after exploring.

elephantine island aswan - egypt itinerary for first-time visitors

Next to Elephantine Island is Kitchener’s Island, home to Aswan Botanical Garden . The island was given to Lord Horatio Kitchener in the 1890s when he was commander of the Egyptian army.

A major plant lover, Kitchener turned the entire island into the stunning Aswan Botanical Gardens, importing plants from the Far East, India and parts of Africa. Now covering 6.8 hectares, the gardens are filled with birds as well as hundreds of species of flora.

aswan botanical garden - 10 days in egypt

If you continue sailing along the Nile River, you’ll get to the 7th-century Monastery of St Simeon on the west bank. Disembark at the river bank and saddle up on a camel to see the monastery up close.

Surrounded by sturdy fortress walls, monastery was first dedicated to the local saint Anba Hedra. It was rebuilt in the 10th century and dedicated to St Simeon. From here the monks travelled into Nubia, in the hope of converting the Nubians to Christianity.

monastery of st simeon - aswan attractions

Few people visit this ancient site, but if you like going off the beaten path, you’ll enjoy the Tombs of the Nobles, perched on the top of the sand dunes overlooking the Nile. The views of the entire Nile valley from here are spectacular.

These are mainly tombs of Egyptian princes dating back to the Old Kingdom. In the tombs, you’ll find colorful paintings and hieroglyphics. Excavations are also still being made by archaeologists these days, so many of the tombs are closed due to maintenance work. The most prominent tomb is Qubbet el-Hawa , also known as ‘the wind dome’.

tombs of the nobles - best things to do in aswan

Downtown Aswan stands along the east bank of the Nile, and you can easily find a budget hotel with views of the Nile for under $40/night. Many attractions and restaurants are within walking distance from there.

Budget: Kato Dool Nubian Resort

Located on one of the islands in the Nile, this colorful and quirky Nubian lodge is full of character and great for young, budget travelers. Check rates here.

Mid Range: Citymax Hotel Aswan

I stayed at this mid range hotel, that has modern and clean rooms overlooking the Nile. Great location within walking distance from the center. Check rates here.

Luxury: Sofitel Legend Old Cataract

The most luxurious hotel in Aswan is an iconic landmark worth splurging on (pictured). In fact, even if you don’t stay here, you should visit at least for afternoon tea. This hotel breathes history like no other in Egypt. Check rates here.

view from sofitel old cataract hotel - aswan travel blog

Egypt Itinerary Day 5: Visit Philae Temple and Museums

Next day, take an Uber and boat to the spectacular Philae Temple. This is my favorite site in Aswan and I cannot recommend it enough. Philae Temple is the single best-preserved temple in all of Egypt, comparable with Karnak Temple in Luxor.

Located on an island, Philae seemingly floats on the water of the Nile. It’s only accessible by boat and you’ll need to haggle for the price but don’t pay more than 50 EGP for the boat trip. Alternatively, book a tour of Philae and combine it with a visit of a Nubian village.

Right across the water from Philae Temple, Solaih Nubian Restaurant is located on Bigeh Island, with awe-inspiring views of the the temple. Just get your motorboat driver to stop here for a short while before returning to shore and order a refreshing iced mint tea while you take in the view. It’s a gorgeous spot for sunset, if you don’t mind getting back in the dark.

Solaih is actually a part of Eco Nubia , a cool ecolodge with traditional mud houses on its very own island. Rooms are simple but the decor is rustic, yet stylish. By night, sit around the fire, enjoy some Nubian fare and watch the light and sound show at Philae Temple.

solaih nubian restaurant - aswan restaurants

Although the river will always be Aswan’s biggest draw, the east bank also has a cluster of sights. On your way back to town from Philae Temple, stop at the Nubia Museum to learn more about the Nubian culture unique to Aswan.

The Nubians are indigenous people of Southern Egypt and they have unique traditions that are distinctive to that of Egyptians. This museum gives an interesting peek into the Nubian culture by presenting the history of Nubia from prehistory to the present day. It’s also home to more than 3000 objects from archaeological sites that were threatened by the construction of the Aswan High Dam.

nubia museum aswan - top sights in aswan

Near the Nubian Museum, you’ll find the Unfinished Obelisk . The obelisk would have measured more than 40m high and weighed an estimated 1200 tonnes if completed, but the stonecutters discovered cracks in the granite and had to abandon the project. It still sits in situ, half chiseled out of the bedrock.

Egypt Itinerary Day 6: Abu Simbel Day Trip

Rise very early for a day trip to the magnificent Abu Simbel Temple — one of the most amazing sights of Egypt. Aswan is the closest city to the famous UNESCO World Heritage site, but it’s still a 3-hour drive away.

Overlooking Lake Nasser, Abu Simbel is among the most famous and spectacular monuments in Egypt. But what makes it so interesting is its backstory: the complex was moved by the UNESCO in 1968 in its entirety to its present location, to save it from inundation after the building of the Aswan high dam.

abu simbel - day trip from aswan egypt itinerary

How to Get to Abu Simbel:

Abu Simbel is 300km away from Aswan. The easiest way to get there is by plane. There are daily flights from Aswan to Abu Simbel . They take only 45 minutes and leave around 10am and return at 2pm and cost $250 round trip.

Alternatively, there are many tour operators that run daily trips there, leaving at 4.30am and returning by 2pm. I booked this day tour to Abu Simbel and found it cheap and efficient. The drive there takes 3.5 hours each way, and you’ll only get 1.5 hours at the site (though I found it sufficient).

abu simbel day trip from aswan - egypt trip

Egypt Itinerary Day 7: Visit Luxor’s Temples

It’s time to leave Aswan for the crown jewel of Egypt. Luxor is often called the world’s greatest open-air museum, but that comes nowhere near describing this extraordinary place. As the capital of the New Kingdom in Ancient Egypt, Luxor has an overwhelming concentration of relics. For full details, check out my Luxor itinerary .

To get to Luxor, I took a 3-hour train from Aswan to Luxor, which cost 55 EGP or US$3.50 in second class. The journey was relatively fast and pain-free. Check train schedule and fare here .

Make your first stop the Karnak Temple , just a short taxi ride from the center of East Bank. At its peak, it was the largest and most important religious complex in ancient Egypt. Entrance is 200 EGP ($12). Plan to spend around 2-3 hours here.

Having developed over more than 1,000 years, Karnak Temple is a massive temple complex to which dozens of pharaohs added their own constructions. My favorite part of Karnak Temple is the Great Hypostyle Hall, a wide walkway featuring 134 columns sporting intricate carvings.

Head back to the center of East Bank, where you’ll find the entrance to the Luxor Market (marked with a prominent wooden gate). Take a stroll in the shade and browse through the souvenirs, spices and jewelry. This souk is definitely not as overwhelming as Khan Al Khalili in Cairo .

For lunch, head to the nearby Aboudi Coffee Break just in front of Luxor Temple for the best view. Service is great, it’s great for lounging, and they’re happy for you to stay as long as you want. Its international menu has everything from sandwiches to pasta and mocktails.

luxor travel blog - view from abou break

Luxor temple is one of the very few temples in Egypt that closes late at night. Plan to visit at 5pm — this way you’ll get to see the complex both at sunset and by night. There’s something special about seeing the ancient sculptures illuminated with spotlights at night.

The temple complex is larger than it looks from the outside. The entrance alone is over 200 feet (61 meters) wide. The Avenue of the Sphinxes leads to the various chambers, chapels and courts.

egypt travel guide - luxor temple at night

Dinner at Al Sahaby Lane

Across the road, you’ll find Al Sahaby Lane — a renown rooftop restaurant that I loved on our first trip to Egypt 13 years ago. The place has become a bit shabby, but the Egyptian food is authentic and the evening atmosphere is fantastic. Try their tagine, falafel, or vegetarian moussaka.

luxor looftop restaurant - best places to eat in luxor

Where to Stay in Luxor

Most restaurants, shops and museums in Luxor are located on the East bank, which is where I recommend staying. Hotels in Luxor are incredibly cheap, with many four-star hotels offering rooms for under $50/night.

Overlooking the ancient Luxor Temple, this budget hotel is where the popular Al Sahaby Lane rooftop restaurant is located. It’s tucked in the Luxor souk and has a central location. Check rates here.

Probably my favorite stay in Egypt, the Sonesta Saint George (pictured) is a classic four-star hotel along the Nile River on the East Bank. The pool is excellent and restaurants have great food. Check rates here.

A stunning example of Victorian architecture, this prestigious hotel is a short walk from Luxor Temple and is definitely an iconic landmark of Luxor. Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor has a history of hosting royalty and celebrities throughout the years. Check rates here.

Search for Hotels in Luxor

sonesta saint george - where to stay in egypt

Egypt Itinerary Day 8: Explore the West Bank

Go on a hot air balloon .

Rise early for the highlight of your Egypt trip: a hot air balloon ride over Luxor . If you’ve never been on a balloon before, this is one of the best places in the world to do it. The 1-hour ride lets you feast on views of the Valley of the Kings and Queens, the Nile River, and the surprisingly lush green fields of the West Bank.

I booked my hot air balloon ride here and highly recommend it. It was much cheaper than other hot air balloon rides I’ve taken ($70 compared to $150 in Cappadocia), and the pilot was great and communicative.

From there, it’s just a short hop to the Valleys of Kings and Queens in the West Bank. This is a sprawling area and a guided tour would be the best way to explore the area. I booked this half-day West Bank tour and really enjoyed my time with my female guide, who was fun, engaging and knowledgable.

The Valley of the Kings was the burial place of the most famous Egyptian pharaohs, including King Tutankhamen. There are over 69 royal tombs here (archaeologists are discovering new ones each year) — many of which are lavishly decorated with painted frescoes and carvings.

valley of the kings tomb - what to do in egypt in 10 days

Tips on Visiting the Valley of the Kings

Even though there are 69 tombs in the Valley of the Kings, only a number of them are open to the public. The entry ticket gains access to three tombs — you’ll need extra tickets to see some of the best tombs.

In recent years, the tombs have suffered greatly from mass tourism. The Department of Antiquities has installed dehumidifiers glass screens in the worst-affected tombs. Sadly that doesn’t seem to stop offenders —I still saw many people touching frescoes with their bare hands.

Ramses VI — My favorite tomb (pictured), one of the biggest and most elaborately decorated. Giant burial chamber with astronomical ceiling. Well worth the extra ticket!
Ramses IV —Long hallway with detailed, colorful paintings and hieroglyphics (included in main ticket).
Merenptah — One of the deepest chambers with a long walkway and large burial chamber (included in main ticket).
Tutakhamen — One of the smallest and least decorated tombs, but you can see the mummified body of Tutankhamen.

inside valley of the kings tomb - what to do in luxor in 3 days

From the Valley of the Kings, it’s just a short drive to the spectacular Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut . This large complex was built to honor the Egyptian Queen who ruled as king.

Hatshepsut was one of ancient Egypt’s first female pharaohs. After the death of her husband, she she adopted the title of pharaoh and ruled for more than two decades. The temple itself has been rebuilt by Polish archaeologists and doesn’t feel as original as other sites in Luxor, but the grand entrance make it worth a visit.

hatshepsut temple - luxor itinerary 3 days

As you leave the West Bank, you’ll pass by the Colossi of Memnon , two massive stone statues of the Pharaoh Amenhotep III . Both statues are quite damaged, having been flooded by the Nile every year.

The original function of the Colossi was to stand guard at the entrance to Amenhotep’s memorial temple . With the exception of the Colossi, however, very little remains today of Amenhotep’s temple.

Egypt Itinerary Day 9: Explore the Museums

On your last day in Luxor, take it easy and stroll along the Nile Corniche to visit some of Luxor’s museums. The Luxor Museum may not be as impressive as the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, but it’s definitely more organized with clear labels.

Among the items on display are grave goods from the tomb of King Tutankhamun and the royal mummies of two pharaohs –Ahmose I and Ramesses I.

Continue along the Nile Corniche and you’ll find the Mummification Museum . It’s a small but interesting museum about the mummification process. You’ll see mummies of birds and crocodiles that were buried together with pharaoahs.

mummification museum - luxor best places to visit

Leave the Corniche behind and walk towards the train station. It’s time for lunch at Sofra Restaurant , one of the most famous restaurants in town. Their classic Egyptian fare makes you feel like you’re dining in a local’s home.

Tuck into a variety of mezze platters – babaganoush, hummus, and tahini-based dipping sauces – then feast on hearty main courses, like slow-cooked lamb shanks or even grilled pigeons for the adventurous foodies.

For the rest of the day, relax by the pool at your hotel (you might need a refreshing dip in that heat!) or take a felucca ride on the Nile River. Luxor is an incredibly stunning place, especially at sunset. Take time to kick back, especially after an intense few days in Luxor visiting temples and archaeological sites.

sunset on the nile in luxor - things to do in egypt

Egypt Itinerary Day 10: Take the Bus to Hurghada

By now, you might be “templed out” and exhausted from all the early mornings and history lessons. It’s time to kick back and enjoy the beautiful Red Sea coast in Egypt.

Hop on a Go Bus, which is a popular bus company in Egypt that offers efficient transport to many parts of the country. I found the bus comfortable and punctual. The bus journey from Luxor to Hurghada took 4 hours and cost 145 EGP ($9).

There’s no shortage of amazingly affordable beach resorts in Hurghada — you can find luxury hotels for under $50/night. Many of them are all-inclusives that cater to Russian and Ukrainian tourists who rarely venture out of the resort.

Spend your afternoon relaxing by the beach or pool. You’ll find it a welcoming respite especially since Hurghada is a lot calmer and relaxing (less hassling).

Downtown Hurghada is centered around Sheraton Avenue and the Hurghada Marina. Most high-end hotels are located in the hotel zone which spreads all along the coast, all the way to Makadi Bay.

Budget: Rivoli Suites

Not too far from downtown Hurghada, Rivoli Suites is a new and affordable hotel with spacious suites. Prices are incredible and location is great. Check rates here.

Mid Range: Sunrise Crystal Bay Resort

I stayed at this all-inclusive resort as the price was really good for a 4-star hotel. My room was very comfortable, with a view of the pool and beach. But it’s a 25-minute drive from downtown Hurghada (though an Uber ride costs only $4 each way). Check rates here.

Luxury: Hilton Hurghada Plaza Hotel

Located close to downtown Hurghada, this 5-star beach hotel offers luxurious, recently renovated rooms and plenty of facilities. It’s definitely one of the best hotels in Egypt with an excellent location. Check rates here.

Egypt Itinerary Day 11: Day Trip to Giftun Island

Wake up early for a day trip to the Giftun Islands (Jazā’ir Jiftūn)! A national park 11km from Hurghada, Giftun Island is the only island authorized to welcome tourists.

Unfortunately it’s not easy to get there on your own. I booked this snorkeling day trip for just €18 and was really impressed by the standard of service. The boat was a luxurious yacht, the guide was responsible and the buffet lunch was great.

You’ll get to snorkel twice off one of the islets in Giftun. The visibility in the Red Sea is one of the best in the world. I was seriously blown away by the marine life here. The island itself is very touristy but it’s definitely home to the beach best in Egypt.

Egypt Itinerary Day 12: Wander around Downtown Hurghada

On your last day in Hurghada, I recommend heading out to downtown Hurghada to explore the city. 60 years ago, this was a simple fisherman village where Bedouins lived in tents along the coast and sustain themselves by fishing. The introduction of tourism has completed transformed Hurghada into a popular beach destination.

Start your walk along Sheraton Avenue , the main artillery of the city that runs parallel to the sea. The road is lined with one shop after another and endless restaurants and cafes. Make a stop at the souk (bazaar) which is located perpendicular to Sheraton Avenue — it’s marked by a brown gate; you won’t miss it.

From there, keep walking until you see the Al Mina Mosque , the landmark of the city. As the biggest mosque in town, Al Mina stands regally by the sea with a series of intricately-carved domes and turrets dominating the skyline. It’s actually open to the public so you can walk in and explore if there are no prayer sessions taking place.

In the evening, walk over to the modern Hurghada Marina . Located next to the mosque, the swanky marina clearly caters to tourists only with plush restaurants, shisha bars and cafes overlooking the sea. It gets lively as night falls.

Egypt Itinerary Day 13: Fly Back to Cairo

It’s almost time to head home. Hurghada is about 500km from Cairo and the bus takes around 7 hours. I recommend flying to Cairo as domestic flights on EgyptAir are cheap and only takes 1 hour. My flight from Hurghada to Cairo only cost US$60.

There’s a handful of airport hotels in Cairo in case you have an extra night here. I stayed at the Novotel Cairo Airport Hotel , which was reasonably priced (around US$60) and just a 5-minute drive from the airport. The hotel also provides a free airport shuttle that leaves every 30 minutes.

How to Dress in Egypt

Egypt is a Muslim country, and it’s best to dress conservatively when traveling in Egypt. In Cairo, where many western women tour and live, you can easily get away with a dress. I wore dresses a few times but always made sure to have a shawl or jacket on me.

Loose harem pants , long-sleeved tunics and dresses that cover your knees are the best things to wear in Egypt for women.
Quick dry hiking pants and short-sleeved shirts were my favorite thing to wear when traveling in Cairo.
Always bring a scarf to cover up and a lightweight jacket for the chilly nights regardless of when you’re traveling Egypt.
To protect yourself from the sun, bring a wide-rimmed hat , SPF50 sunscreen and polarized sunglasses .
For camera gear, I carry an Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II Mirrorless that’s lightweight and easy to lug around. It fits perfectly in my leather mini messenger bag along with an extra lens, passport and other belongings.

how to dress in egypt - how safe is egypt

I hope this 2-week Egypt itinerary has helped you plan your journey. Feel free to print out this Egypt itinerary or bookmark this and refer it to it during your trip. If you’re interested in reading more on Egypt, check out these articles I’ve written on the country:

Is Egypt Safe to Visit in 2021?
Cairo Itinerary: 3 Days in Cairo and the Pyramids
3 Days in Luxor Itinerary
15 Cool Things to Do in Aswan
Sudan Travel Guide
Best Things to Do in Jordan
Hiking the Jesus Trail in Israel

Let me know if you have any questions below. I’d be more than happy to help!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. I’ll get a small commission when you click on those links, at NO EXTRA COST TO YOU.

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2 weeks in egypt - egypt itinerary 2 week - 2 week egypt itinerary

Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 140 countries across 7 continents. As an adventure travel blogger, she has a special interest in unusual destinations and deep experiences. Her work has appeared in many major publications including BBC Travel, CNN and LonelyPlanet.com. Read more about her here and get more life updates from her on her Facebook and Instagram .

Egypt Travel Guide: Plan Your Perfect Trip

Written by Jess Lee Updated Sep 24, 2021

Egypt is one of the world's great historic destinations. Its tourism focuses both on the country's glut of Pharaonic treasures and on the long, sandy shores of the Red Sea, which is a favorite family-friendly winter vacation escape.

As well as the beaches, and the pyramids, tombs, and temples along the Nile, you'll find cities such as Cairo and Alexandria, brimming with cultural monuments and vibrant city life, and the desert landscapes of both the Sinai and the Western Desert.

Whether your travel plans initially are all about cruising on the Nile (Egypt's most popular holiday activity) or diving the coral reefs of the Red Sea, Egypt offers plenty more to see beyond its famed highlights.

Winter (November to February): This is Egypt's most popular tourism season for good reason. Sunny and warm weather in Upper Egypt (Luxor and Aswan) and along the Red Sea coast bring tourists flocking to both the beaches and to the major historic sites. This is also the best time for desert adventures in the Western Desert.

Cairo and Alexandria get a fair amount of rain during mid-winter and despite blue skies during the day throughout the country, it does get chilly after dark, so pack something warm for the evenings.

Spring (March to May): Overall, this is a good time to travel, though be aware that occasional dust storms in March and April can hamper both sightseeing and transport.

Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan as seen from Cairo's Citadel

Egypt's capital is one of the world's great historic cities, with so many mosques and other monuments from the era when Cairo was the center of the Islamic empires that it would take you months to see it all.

Many visitors treat Cairo just as an overnight base to see the Giza Pyramids (which lay on the outskirts) before moving on to the Pharaonic treasures of Luxor, but Cairo deserves a trip in itself.

Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Cairo
Pyramids of Giza: Attractions, Tips & Tours
From Cairo to Alexandria: 4 Best Ways to Get There

Inside the Temple of Medinat Habu on Luxor's west bank

Luxor is Egypt's highlight destination, with more temples and tombs that you'll ever be able to see on one visit. For most travelers, this is a place to base yourself for a few days to explore famous Pharaonic sights such as the Temple of Karnak and Valley of the Kings. It's also the key start or finish point on the most popular Nile cruise itinerary.

Top-Rated Attractions in Luxor & Easy Day Trips
Exploring the Temples of Karnak: A Visitor's Guide
Exploring Karnak's Great Temple of Amun, Luxor
Exploring the Valley of the Kings: A Visitor's Guide
From Cairo to Luxor: 5 Best Ways to Get There

While Luxor remains the main focus for many visitors, Aswan is Egypt's most relaxed town and the prime base for Nile felucca rides and visits to Philae Temple and the Temples of Abu Simbel. Alexandria is Egypt's famed Mediterranean city, dripping with faded grandeur, and visitors looking for relaxed beach vacations head to the coastal centers of Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada.

Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Alexandria
Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Aswan
Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Sharm el-Sheikh
Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hurghada

Cruising the Nile is Egypt's most popular activity and is a relaxing, no-hassle way of visiting some of the country's most famous tourist sights with everything organized for you. If you're into diving, the Red Sea will probably be your main target, as Egypt is one of the top diving destinations in the world.

Cruising the Nile in Egypt: The Complete Guide
Diving the Red Sea: Best Dive Sites
Top-Rated Beaches in Egypt
Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in the Red Sea Region

Anyone interested in Egypt's Pharaonic history will obviously want to hit the Pyramids of Giza and Luxor's sights. After those, though, the Nile-side temples of Kom Ombo and Edfu are definite must-sees on any Nile journey. The necropolis of Saqqara is worth staying an extra night in Cairo for, and in the far south, the colossal Temples of Abu Simbel, overlooking Lake Nasser, is one of Egypt's most impressive sights.

Exploring Abu Simbel: A Visitor's Guide
Exploring Edfu's Magnificent Temple of Horus
Exploring Kom Ombo Temple: A Visitor's Guide
Exploring the Philae Temple Complex: A Visitor's Guide
Exploring Saqqara: A Visitor's Guide
Exploring the Temples of Abydos: A Visitor's Guide
Saint Catherine's Monastery: A Visitor's Guide

Population of Egypt: The population of Egypt is 105 million. It is the 14th most populous country in the world. Nearly the entire population (95 percent) lives along the banks of the Nile.
Capital of Egypt: The capital of Egypt is Cairo, with an estimated population of 20 million.
Geography of Egypt: The vast amount of Egypt is desert, with the narrow fertile strip of the Nile River winding through the center of the country from south to north. Both the Sinai Peninsula and Eastern Desert have mountainous spines, while the Western Desert is speckled with isolated oases and large areas of undulating sand dunes.
Language of Egypt: The official language of Egypt is Arabic.
Currency of Egypt: The currency of Egypt is the Egyptian pound.
Time Zone of Egypt: The time zone of Egypt is UTC+2.

Tomb interior inside the Valley of the Kings

Tourist Visas: Most nationalities can receive a 30-day tourist visa on arrival. They cost US$25 and must be paid for in either US dollars, euro, or British pounds.

Electricity: Egypt uses two-prong European-style plugs.

Visiting Mosques: The grand mosques of Cairo are one of Egypt's most spectacular architectural highlights. Most have free entrance (a few have small entry fees) for all visitors.

Wear long trousers/skirts and long-sleeved tops if you want to visit, and female travelers should don a headscarf. Shoes are taken off at the door. If there is an attendant at the entrance looking after the shoes, tip them when receiving your shoes on exit.

Clothing: Except on the tourist beaches of South Sinai and the Red Sea coast, travelers should err on the conservative side with their clothing, covering knees and shoulders.

Money: Egypt has a shortage of small bank notes (which are useful in small shops, cafés, and restaurants and for tipping). Always try to break big notes at every chance you get — at popular tourist sites when paying for tickets and at larger businesses.

Egypt Travel Tips: 24 Essential Things You Should Know Before You Visit Egypt (2024)

Essential Egypt Travel Tips You Should Know in 2023

Travelling to Egypt? This Egypt travel tips guide will give you a detailed rundown of absolutely everything you should know before visiting Egypt. Including what to wear, tipping culture, scams, and loads of other useful hacks.

Egypt is awesome. Seeing its magnificent monuments and the mighty Nile will no doubt leave a lasting impression on you.

If you’re reading this, then there’s are good chance you have either booked your flights to Egypt or you’re seriously considering going. Either way, that’s great! You’ve come to the right place and are in good hands.

You won’t regret deciding to travel to Egypt. I know you will have a fabulous time.

How do I know that? Because you’re here reading this article!

You’re doing the right thing by researching and arming yourself with information. This is guide covers literally everything you need to know before visiting Egypt.

This is a very honest (and sometimes brutally honest) guide. No sugar-coating. My intention is not to be a Debbie Downer. I simply want to prepare you, so you will have a wonderful time because there won’t be any nasty surprises.

You won’t find a more comprehensive guide out there on how to prepare for and what to expect in Egypt. I’ve literally poured all my knowledge (and then some!) into this guide because just like you, I was both excited about going to Egypt but also very anxious and probably a bit paranoid too.

With that in mind, here’s everything we’ll cover. Plus a bonus tip at the end you won’t want to miss!

Looking for something in particular? Use this table of contents below to jump around using the links.

Why you should go to egypt, is it safe to travel to egypt.

Is Egypt Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
Survival Arabic Language Guide

When Should You Go to Egypt?

What is the safest way to travel around egypt.

Food and Upset Stomachs
Heat and Hydration
Vaccinations
Haggling and Bargaining
Nothing is free
Cairo Airport
Crossing the road
Photography
Camel Rides
School Children
Mosques and Religious Sites
Fridays and Saturdays
BONUS TIP: Fake Papyrus Scam

Karnak Temple

There’s so much to love about Egypt and nothing comes close to experiencing it in in person and not through a TV screen. The history, the temples, the smells, the heat, the sand, the Nile and the moment when your eyes finally gaze up at the Pyramids of Giza. All along the Nile you can trace the Ancient Egyptians through history as you visit their impressive and carefully decorated temples and tombs. Learning about the Ancient Egyptians, how they lived, their beliefs, inventions, and actually seeing their creations is something that will stay with you forever. Egypt is simply a marvel that should be experienced by everyone.

Yes! It’s much safer than the media may lead you to believe. Which is probably why you’re here reading about this Egypt travel tips guide

As an Aussie, I always check the Australian Smart Traveller site for travel warnings. This is the equivalent of the travel warning list by the U.S Department of State for American citizens.

While Egypt is currently listed with a Level 2 travel warning (go to page 4 ) (True as of August 19, 2018), it’s important to remember that governments will always err on the side of caution.

There are four levels used. Where Level 1 means ‘exercise normal precautions’ and Level 4 means ‘do not travel’.

As you can see, this particular warning doesn’t mean you shouldn’t travel. It just means that certain areas are better off being avoided and you just need to be more cautious when visiting them. That’s up to you to decide what you’re most comfortable with.

As of August 2018, the areas of Egypt which are flagged as dangerous are:

The Sinai Peninsula (with the exception of travel to Sharm El-Sheikh by air) due to terrorism.
The Western Desert due to terrorism.
Egyptian border areas due to military zones.

The site goes on to suggest ways in which you can reduce any risk:

Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
Obtain comprehensive medical insurance ( get a free quote here ) that includes medical evacuation.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
Review the Crime and Safety Report for Egypt.
U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

There are other ways you can ensure your safety and help you to feel more confident with your decision to travel to Egypt. This is covered in a later section.

Because of all the negative attention Egypt has received, tourism has fallen drastically which is great for us travellers but not so great for the locals who depend on the tourist dollar.

With fewer visitors, there are also fewer scammers and smaller crowds at famous attractions. So, there is a silver lining.

On a more personal note, I felt safe during my entire Egypt trip which started in Cairo and went all the way down the Nile to Abu Simbel near the Sudan border.

If I can offer any addition peace of mind, it’s that tourist attractions are generally the safest areas to be in in Egypt as they are heavily guarded.

In addition to this, the locals who I met in hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, souks and the Telecom store where I bought my local SIM card, were all very helpful, kind, and friendly.

Is Egypt safe for solo female travellers?

Admiring the Pyramids

Yes! While Egypt is safe, as a female, you will feel a little bit uncomfortable. This feeling will come mainly in open public places such as walking down the street and in souks.

It’s in these places that you will find men loitering, either by themselves or with a couple of other men. I can only describe this as people watching as most of the time they are sitting on plastic chairs and watching the world go by, including us.

If you’re female, you will receive a lot of looks. In my experience they were harmless. If anything, it just made me feel a bit self-conscious.

Sometimes these men will try to start talking with you or guess where you’re from (they’re very good at getting this right, by the way). Somehow they can tell an Australian from an American just by looking or listening to us speak. Very clever cookies.

It’s at this point, you should do what a local Egyptian man told to me, and that is, to ignore them. Don’t even look at them. This will be enough to discourage them. It might seem like you’re being rude, but ultimately it will protect you.

I was told that the seemingly harmless conversations that start with something like guessing where you’re from, will eventually lead into being invited into their home, shop or restaurant, where they will offer you tea (a traditional welcoming custom), then after some more small talk, they will present you with something and insist you buy it. If you decline, they will get angry.

Okay, so I just painted a terrible picture, but it’s important to be aware of these things. I experienced this first-hand and didn’t know what had happened until my local guide told me that it’s a very common ploy.

Not all men are like this by the way. Just some that give the rest a bad name.

Let’s move on, shall we?

Survival Arabic Travel Phrase Language Guide

Knowing some Arabic ahead of travelling to Egypt is such a game changer. When you can show that you speak a bit of the Arabic language and can recognise certain keywords, this will give you an extra layer of protection, especially when it comes to dealing with money.

Not only will you feel more in control, but locals will appreciate and respect your efforts to learn their language.

Here are 13 useful Egyptian Arabic words and phrases you should learn and use:

Hello – salam / marhaban / ahlan
Peace be with you – As-salāmu alaykum – Even though this literally means ‘peace be with you’, it is a commonly used greeting. The response would be Alaikum Salaam, meaning ‘upon you be peace’.
Thank you – shukran
Please – min fadlak (if you’re a male), min fadlik (if you’re a female)
Y ou’re welcome – Afwan
Yes – aywa, No – lā, Ok – Mashi
How much is this? – bi-kam da. You can say, I’ll pay 100 – Enna hafda meeya. Incidentally, if you say ‘meeya meeya’ (’100, 100′) this means ‘perfect’ or ‘really good’.
It costs too much – Da ghali awi
I would like… – momkin
I want – Enna iza (if you’re a female) or Enna ayez (if you’re a male). To negative the sentence, add ‘mish’. For example, ana mish iza/ayez (I don’t want)
I don’t understand – ana mish fahem
Go away – Em’shee
Pyramid – Haram. Most Egyptians don’t understand the word “Pyramids”, so make sure you learn the Arabic word for them, especially if you’re taking a taxi there. Haram also means. The strict translation of the Arabic word ‘harim’ means (a prohibited place) and is from the verbal root ‘harama’ (prohibited), designated as ‘haram’ (a pyramid). ( Source )

For more Arabic phrases, get my free Arabic travel phrases guide here.

Between June and August, the temperature in Egypt is unbearable. While you may have the luxury of quiet tourist attractions and more hotel options, to be honest, in that heat you won’t want to do anything but relax in a pool somewhere.

The best time to visit Egypt is in Spring. The weather is pleasant and the major attractions such as the Pyramids of Giza, Aswan, and Luxor are still fairly quiet.

You’ll also benefit from cheaper hotel prices, especially if travelling either side of the high season which is December to February.

Avoid traveling during Ramadan.

Egypt Travel Tips - Safest way to get around Egypt

Cruising down the Nile at sunset

This is probably my top tip in this guide. It’s not Earth shattering, but it made all the difference to me and was the only way I could see myself travelling around Egypt and finally fulfil my childhood dream.

Go on an organised group tour!

To simplify and avoid overthinking everything, I knew that I had to travel with an organised group tour. That way I would have a local guide with me, I wouldn’t have to worry about transportation and other logistics and I could just concentrate on having a good time.

Choosing Topdeck to go to Egypt with was a no brainer, for two reasons. I’d already travelled with them before around Outback Australia and really rated my experience with them. The accommodation, transportation, guide and organisation was all spot on. Plus, I met some wonderful people that I’m still friends with.

The second reason (which might sound a bit silly) was that they are an Australian company, which I knew would put my dad’s mind at ease. I knew he would be super worried about me going. Even me living in London makes him worry!

By the way, remember that Egyptian guy I mentioned earlier who warned me about talking to strangers? That was our Topdeck tour manager, Ramzy. Top bloke!

Ramzy gave a bunch of useful tips, a language guide (on behalf of Topdeck), and was basically a kind of bodyboard who protected us from negative experiences and scared off a few scammers. This made all the difference. If you’re curious, I went on the Egypt Express tour . Book your Egypt tour here.

Now, let’s get into the niggity gritty of the everyday realities of travelling in Egypt.

Top 24 Egypt Travel Tips You Should Know Before You Visit Egypt

The tap water in Egypt is heavily chlorinated and tastes terrible. It’s okay for brushing your teeth with, but don’t drink it. Especially if you have a sensitive stomach. Buy bottled water. It’s easy to get and only costs 5 EGP (0.28 USD) for a 1-litre bottle.

2. Food and Upset Stomach

You’re in a foreign place with foreign food, diarrhoea will happen. To help prevent this, again, buy bottled water and check the seal isn’t broken. Avoid eating salads, raw vegetables, unpeeled fruit, and meat that isn’t thoroughly cooked. Don’t buy food from street vendors that don’t have running water. If you want an ice-cream, check that it hasn’t melted and been refrozen. If you do get an upset stomach, take diarrhoea relief tablets and drink plenty of purified water with fresh lime.

3. Heat and Hydration

Egypt Travel Tips - Dealing with heat and staying hydrated

Looking up at the Great Pyramid of Giza

Egypt gets hot, obviously. You’re in the desert! Dehydration, sunburn and heat exhaustion are common, especially in Upper Egypt. As your sweat evaporates you may not realise how dehydrated you are.

If you’re travelling outside of winter, then I highly recommend wearing loose-fitting clothes made of natural fibre. Keep up your fluids up by carrying around this travel bottle and add a bit of extra salt to your food to replace salts lost in sweat. Pack electrolyte tablets to take just in case you feel unwell.

If you need further medical assistance, Egyptian pharmacists generally speak English and can be trusted to provide sound advice and help you find a doctor if needed.

4. Vaccinations

Officially, visitors to Egypt do not require any vaccinations unless you’re coming from an infected area. However, there are some vaccinations you should get or have topped up as a precaution.

Check with yourr GP what they recommend. Beyond ensuring your tetanus and polio is up to date, other common recommendations include getting vaccinations against typhoid, Hepatitis A and B, and rabies. Rabies is a problem throughout Egypt, so avoid touching stray animals such as cats, dogs, monkeys, and bats.

Money and Valuables

5. currency.

Egypt Travel Tips - Currency - Egyptian Pounds and Piastres

Remember the difference between 50 Piastres (top) and 50 Egyptian Pounds (bottom)

The unit of currency used in Egypt is the Egyptian pound, written £E or LE. The Egyptian pound is divided into piastres (pt). My top tip is to recognise the difference between the 50 pt against the 50 Egyptian Pound notes since they are very different in value.

Make sure that if you’re given change or are paying for something, that you’re not duped into thinking that 50 piastres (or cents) is the 50 Egyptian pounds note. This is a common scam that is used on unsuspecting tourists. When I found out about this, I made sure I kept both denominations on me so I could tell them apart. Compare the difference of the 50 pt and 50 LE in the photo above.

Another word to add your vocab is ‘baksheesh’, which means ‘tip’. You’ll hear this one a lot and it will be expected for anything and everything. Tipping locals for their services is expected and a way of life in Egypt.

Many Egyptians are paid such low salaries that receiving tips is an important part of their income. But rest assured you won’t have to fork out much.

In restaurants, it’s normal to round up the bill or give 10 per cent directly to the waiter. Smaller tips (0.25 piastres to 1 EGP) are given to the likes of lavatory attendants, porters, and anyone willing to bend the rules a bit like letting you enter a site after hours or taking a photo in a restricted area.

While the rules are often bent in Egypt, authorities are cracking down on certain things (like being able to take a photo inside King Tuts tomb) with hefty fines. Don’t risk offering money just to get your way.

7. Haggling and Bargaining

One of the best things to do in Egypt is to visit a souk market. When browsing comes to buying and you ask, bi-kam da? (How much is it?) be prepared to bargain hard or walk away. As a general rule, offer one third of the asking price and expect to pay half.

8. Nothing is free

Taking a sneaky photo at Karnak Temple without being spotted

Want to take a photo of a camel at the Pyramids? If the owner catches you look, he will probably demand to be paid.

I learned this lesson the hard way. I was at least 20 metres away when I was spotted taking a photo of a camel resting. It’s up to you if you choose to offer the owner something and if you feel like you’ve done something wrong.

A similar incident happened when I was at Philae Temple. Three men were talking amongst themselves and with the temple behind them I thought it would make a great shot. With at least 50 metres between us , I took the shot. They spotted me and came over and offered to have a group photo. By this point I knew the drill and was happy to give them a little baksheesh.

9. Belongings

It goes without saying that you should always keep your valuables with you. Decide on whether or not you feel comfortable leaving your passport, laptop or iPad in the hotel room safe or if you’re better off keeping it on you. Using a PacSafe is a great option if you want to leave stuff in your room and there is no safe available.

If you go on a tour, don’t leave anything valuable on the bus, even if the driver is around. They can’t be responsible if something happens.

What to Wear

10. clothing.

Egypt Travel Tips - Souks and Markets - Khan el-Khalili

Khan el-Khalili market in Cairo

Egypt is dusty, sandy, and dirty. Your clothes will dirty easily and you’ll be washing your hair most nights. Be prepared to rinse out your clothes each night ( this will do the trick ) or pack extra items to wear.

So, what should you wear? As a general rule, wear loose-fitting clothes that are made of breathable material.

Ladies, it’s a bit more complicated for us. While Egypt is one of the more liberal Islamic countries, it has become more conservative in recent years with many women wearing a hijab or headscarf. Female tourists aren’t obligated to wear these but you may feel more at ease doing so, especially in mosques.

As a general rule, avoid showing your chest, shoulders or legs below the knees.

At this point you’re probably looking at my photos wondering why I didn’t cover up my legs, and you’re right! I did pack longer dresses, but when Ramzy told the group that it’s ok to wear shorts and normal summer attire when visiting monuments such as the Pyramids and the temples along the Nile, I felt comfortable in taking his advice.

The only exception he made was when visiting mosques, markets or souks. Which is why you’ll see me wearing long pants in the photo above in Khan el-Khalili souk in Cairo.

If you’re a female travelling alone, place ring on your wedding finger, this will show respectability.

11. Footwear

However hot and tempting it maybe to wear flip flops, with all the dirt, sand and grime present, I recommend wearing closed toe shoes.

You’re going to be doing a lot of walking in some pretty unclean areas and the last thing you want is having dirty feet all day.

Getting Around and Transportation

You need a visa! For Americans and Aussies, and a few other countries, you can either apply in advance for an Egypt e-Visa , or queue at the border for a visa on arrival.

For most travellers, the visa will cost roughly $USD25 (single entry, valid for 30 days) or $USD35 (multi-entry). Since I travelled with Topdeck, they organised my visa once I arrived. All I had to do was bring American Dollars to pay for it. Only American Dollars or Egyptian Pounds are accepted. In addition to your visa, ensure your passport is valid six months beyond your planned date of entry.

Taxis are cheap and easy to use. Simply go to a main street and wave your hand, that’s it. They even have Uber if you prefer! Just be sure he follows the GPS.

Before jumping in the taxi, agree on the price beforehand and stick to it. Not matter what reason they come up with. For getting around Cairo, you can expect to pay 50 to 80 EGP. (2.70 – 4.50 USD).

If you’re staying in Downtown Cairo, getting to the Pyramids should only take 30 minutes, but Cairo has very busy roads so it can take 60-90 minutes.

There are three kinds of taxis in Cairo: Black Taxis, Yellow Taxis and White Taxis. Black taxis are the oldest ones. Most are without a meter and without air-conditioning. White taxis are the modern equivalent of black taxi. They have a meter and air-conditioning. Yellow taxis are professionally run and can be booked over the phone but are the most expensive. I recommend getting a white taxi and bargaining hard.

14. Air travel

With raised safety concerns in Egypt, some airlines like British Airways are becoming more strict with what you can take in your carry-on luggage or even in your checked luggage.

I flew both ways with British Airways but they only had an issue when returning to the UK. They had very strict guidelines on what size lithium batteries were allowed on board.

A bunch of us were fuming when we were forced to leave behind expensive powerbanks which we weren’t reimbursed for or given alternatively means of keeping them. To give you an idea, this is the one I had to part with. *sniff*.

Air France, who were also flying that day but didn’t have this rule. Check with your airline ahead of travelling so you’re not caught out and left out of pocket.

15. Cairo Airport

Cairo Airport is unlike any airport you’ve experienced. Upon arrival, everything seems pretty standard until after you go through passport control.

Once you pick up your luggage and head to the exit, there will probably be a massive long queue that wraps around the luggage collection hall. Guarding the exit is one or two men who will look you up and down and decide if they want to check your luggage.

Since we were with a Topdeck escort who came to help us get a visa and take us to the hotel, he was on familiar terms with the airport staff and was able to get us through quickly.

Once we got through to the other side, our escort disappeared briefly to hand back a permit he was given in order to come and meet us inside. This is just another reason why travelling with an organised tour is great.

If, at the end of your trip you leave via Cairo Airport, be prepared for three separate security checks; one as soon as you enter the airport at the entrance, one at customs, then another at the gate. The first one is where they’ll flag any illegal objects like my poor powerbank .

16. Crossing the road

Crossing the road in Cairo is a skill. If you’ve ever been to Rome and stared down a driver then confidently walked out into a busy street, then you’re well-prepared for Cairo.

If locals see you struggling to cross, they will either let you join their own crossing convoy or come and assist you.

If you’re still too nervous to go it alone, you have some other options for crossing the road:

Wait for a lull in the traffic before crossing (this may take a while).
If possible, cross where there is only 1 or 2 lanes of traffic. Don’t stop in the middle of the road between the two lanes either. Cars will drive dangerously close to you while you wait for the other lane to have an opening.
Ask someone to join them as they cross. If they can’t understand English, simply smile and indicate to the other side of the road.
Find a policeman to help you, there are plenty around.

17. Driving

Whilst driving from Cairo to Luxor during the night, I noticed that many drivers didn’t have their headlights on. This is totally normal and nothing to be concerned about. Egyptians believe they see better this way.

When a car is approaching, they’ll flash their lights to let them know they’re there. Some drivers may keep their fog lights on. If you’re wondering, our Topdeck driver kept his headlights on.

Cultural Tips and Other Useful Tips

18. photography.

Egypt Travel Tips - Pyramid of Khafre and satellite pyramid

You will have to pay a small fee to take your camera inside the Pyramids Complex

Want to take your camera with you? Be prepared to pay for it!

Whether you want to take photos or film video, every monument, temple, tomb and museum you visit will charge a small fee just to take it inside. Expect to pay anything from 50 to 100 EGP (2.70 – 5.60 USD).

I was even charged extra when guards are Philae temple saw my tripod. At first they wouldn’t let me take it at all then they came around when I said I wouldn’t use it so they charged me for another camera ticket.

Once inside, flash photography is generally forbidden and should be strictly followed.

19. Camel Rides

Camel and horse rides at the Pyramids of Giza

Going on a camel ride and taking a photo with the pyramids behind you is one of the most desired tourist souvenirs from a trip to Egypt.

If you know that going on a camel ride around the pyramids is something you definitely want to do, you may (and I hope), reconsider once you arrive and see how malnourished and badly treated the camels, and horses for that matter, are.

Egypt is a third-world country and many citizens are living in a state of desperation. As such, the men who run these camel rides prioritise feeding their families over feeding their camels. While they may have their priorities right, I can’t bring myself to support them. This has only become worse since tourism has declined.

If you do choose to take a camel ride, make sure you’re not hassled into paying more than the fair price. In order to crack down on scamming tourist signs have now been put up showing set prices for camel rides which are 50 Egyptian Pounds for 30 minutes.

Make sure you check out my guide on everything you need to know about visiting the Pyramids.

20. Toilets

Public toilets in Egypt are not the best, and that’s putting it lightly.

A trip to the loo will set you back 1 or 2 EGP and give you access to either a squat or western toilet. They generally don’t have toilet paper, are dirty, and the tap water may not be running. Bring your own toilet paper ( these flushable wipes are great ), hand sanitizer, and wipe down the seat if you must sit or get one of these.

There will usually be a hose next to the toilet, but the water will only be turned on if you pay a baksheesh.

Toilets in restaurants and hotels are usually staffed by an attendant who will give you toilet paper and turn on the tap for you. Giving a baksheesh of 25 – 50 piastres is standard.

21. School Children

You might feel famous when travelling around Egypt. At least that’s how the students in large school groups will make you think,

On countless occasions, at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the Pyramids, and Karnak Temple, young kids would run up to us asking for selfies or yell out and wave as our group walked passed. They were so excited and interested in us.

When I asked Ramzy why, he said that we are sort of celebrities to them. They watch people like us on TV who have very different lives from their own so they get excited when they see us in their country.

It’s actually very sweet. However, if you say yes to one, they’ll all come running. It’s best to politely decline from the start.

22. Mosques and Religious Sites

A beautiful Mosque on the Nile

Dressing modestly is a must when visiting mosques. Some places may ask women to cover their hair and will provide you with a headscarf. Before entering you will be required to remove your shoes and leave them with a shoe custodian (give him a baksheesh).

If you want to climb the minaret (tower), carry your shoes with the soles pressed together. It’s best to avoid visiting mosques during prayer times as to not intrude on worshippers.

23. Smoking

Everywhere you go, everyone will be smoking. Whether it’s a cigarette or shisha water-pipe, if you’re a non-smoker it can get really annoying.

Smokers are allowed to light up pretty much anywhere. The only exception is in fast-food restaurants thanks to an initiative by the environment ministry.

Restaurants have non-smoking tables, but these are almost pointless since they are surrounded by smoking tables. If you’re outside, try and stay upwind and always ask for a non-smoking room in your hotel.

24. Fridays and Saturdays

As in most Arab countries, their weekend falls on a Friday and Saturday. This means tourist attractions are much more busy on these days than the rest of the week.

I strongly recommend not visiting the Pyramids, Cairo Tower or the Egyptian Museum in Cairo on either of these days. The queues will be torture.

25. BONUS TIP: Fake Papyrus Scam

Lady writing my name in hieroglyphics on real papyrus

The Ancient Egyptians were one of the first to master the production of paper, known as papyrus. One of the nicest souvenirs you can get after a trip to Egypt is a papyrus print. But, there is a very common scam take catches out many tourists. Fake papyrus!

In many markets and other street vendors will sell fake papyrus that is actually made from banana leaf, not the papyrus plant. These will be cheaper than the real thing.

So, how do you spot a fake papyrus? Easy! First, notice how these vendors show or display their “papyrus”, it’s stiff, like cardboard and will tear when rolled which is why they’ll never roll it. Real papyrus is strong, flexible and durable and can be rolled up. Second, hold the papyrus up to the light, you should be able to see vertical and horizontal strips that make up the papyrus sheet, within these strips you should see little dark fibres or flecks. This is a good sign!

I hope this guide has helped you feel more prepared for your trip to Egypt. Remember, every country has its quirks. If things were the same as home, you wouldn’t be visiting.

I would go back to Egypt in a heartbeat. Everything I saw blew me away. It’s such an incredible country with a wonderful history. The locals are welcoming and it’s very cheap to travel to.

If you still have any questions or concerns, please reach out and leave a comment below. I’d be happy to help where I can. If not, then I wish you a wonderful trip! Support this blog and book your Egypt tour here.

Shukran for reading! 😉

Take a day trip from Cairo

Alexandria Day Tour: See the city built by Alexander the Great
Private Full-Day Tour of Historical Alexandria from Cairo
Pyramids of Giza, Sakkara & Memphis: Private Tour with Lunch
Pyramids, Museum & Bazaar Private Tour with Entrance & Lunch
Cairo: Dinner Cruise on the Nile River with Entertainment
Cairo: Egyptian Museum 4-Hour Private Tour with Transfer
Cairo: 1 or 2-Hour Felucca Ride on the Nile with Transfers
Old Cairo and Khan El Khalili Bazaar: Private Half-Day Tour
Cairo: Best Kept Secrets Night Tour
Plus loads more here …

Let me remind you again why Egypt is amazing and watch my Egypt vlog below.

Going to Egypt? Get my free Arabic travel phrase guide.

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Essential Egypt Travel Tips You Should Know

Sources Eyewitness Egypt

Over to you!

Which of these tips did you find the most useful? Is there anything you would add? Tell me below! Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

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26 best things to do in verona, italy + where to stay, 17 comments.

Thank you so much for all the information.

Looking forward for a trip to Egypt !!

My pleasure! Have a wonderful trip 🙂

Hi Michele, a lovely and useful article to read! Just wanted to check with you about passport safety: was it with you at all times, or you left it in your hotel room? Also – when entering Egypt have you been questioned about what, if any medication you had with you – as some over the counter meds in Europe or US can be problematic to bring into Egypt? Thank you!

Hi Jo, thank you so much and thank you for your questions. Yes, I always carried my passport on me. In fact, I do this wherever I travel. I would also ensure you have a photocopy in your luggage and a copy saved on your phone or on the cloud as an extra safety measure. When it comes to medication, I would email the airport directly for any questions you have. I was worried when flying from London to NY after I had heard that you can’t take a certain quantity of protein powder in your luggage. I emailed US customs and they said it was ok. I also kept a copy of that email on me and on my phone and was ready to show the customs officers on arrival if I had any issues. This is good practice as the problem with customs is that it’s sometimes open to interpretation and depends on how the officers feel on the day. I hope this helps 🙂 Have a wonderful trip!

Where do you recommend converting US $$ to LE and what volume of notes should I get to handle all the tipping. If at airport, is this best done before the border/customs or after? Thanks!

Hi David, before arriving, I ordered some USD so I would have enough to pay for my visa on arrival and have some money for incidentals. I had heard that they accept both USD and Egyptian Pounds at the airport. The tour company I travelled with had a guide on the ground who helped me through this process and I knew I need 100USD to pay for the visa. The rest of the time I used Egyptian Pounds. There is no tipping culture like the USA, so you can tip if you like but it’s not always necessary.

Hi, I have read and re-read this several times. Thank you. I’m going with a friend to Egypt early March and want to go on organised trips but I’m disabled and can only walk very slowly. In other countries I’ve just let the group go ahead and done my own thing then joined back at the coach. Is this a good idea in Egypt or can I hire an electric mobility scooter while there.

Hi Gabrielle, I’m not 100% sure how this works and it will vary depending on the accessibility of the group tour company. I would reach out to them directly for advice before booking. Best of luck and I hope it works out 🙂

Hello, thank you for your honesty. I enjoyed reading all of your tips. I am considering going in February from the 19th to the 24th. Do you think this is enough time to see everything you saw?

Hi Caroline, I went on a Top Deck tour, this is the best way to ensure you that we see everything and safely too. I highly recommend it. You can see the tour I did here http://bit.ly/EgyptExpressTour

Great info! Where did you take your photos??? THEY. ARE. FABULOUS.

Thank you SO much, Naomi. I took them during my Top Deck tour around Egypt . I highly recommend it! 🙂

This has been helpful and has eased my mind about travelling to Egypt. Going in a tour group, can’t wait ! 😀

I’m so happy to hear that. You’re very welcome, Jacinda 🙂

Thank you so much for such a wonderful article, I can’t wait to land egypt.

Thank you so much, Priya 🙂

Travel to Egypt (3-week itinerary + Tips)

By Joan Torres 3 Comments Last updated on March 26, 2024

From the classic pyramids to the coral-rich Red Sea, breathtaking temples, sailing on the Nile River and off-beat places like camel markets, hidden ruins, and lovely rural villages, Egypt has thousands and thousands of years of history to tell, show and amaze any traveler.

Egypt is, in fact, a major travel destination but, despite being one of the most visited countries in the world , traveling in Egypt is quite challenging, even more than in less touristic countries like Iran or Kyrgyzstan , as constantly arguing and fighting against not getting ripped-off by the locals is a real fact plus, outside of the main touristic areas, things are pretty wild, especially if you move around by public transportation.

My top recommendation when you travel to Egypt is that, in order to get away from the scammer Egyptians and meet some really cool locals, as well as beat the crowds, you must get off the beaten track.

Luckily for you, in this 1 to 3-week itinerary for traveling to Egypt , I reveal not only the most touristic places but also, plenty of cool spots which are rarely visited by regular tourists.

In this Egypt travel guide, you find:

Table of Contents

Covid-19 Travel Restrictions
Security issues
Travel Insurance
Scams in Egypt
1-week itinerary
2-week itinerary
3-week itinerary
More resources

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😷 COVID-19 Travel restrictions for Egypt

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🪪 Visa for traveling to Egypt

Most Western nationalities can get a visa on arrival at any international airport and land border, both Israel and Sudan .

At the airport, a visa costs 25USD and it is valid for 60 days. You can also pay in €.

Otherwise, you may also apply in advance for an e-visa for Egypt . This way, you can avoid the long queues at the airport.

⛅ Best time for traveling to Egypt

Summer is the high season for traveling in Egypt, basically because people from Europe are on holidays.

However, besides being crowded, summers are utterly hot here so, in my opinion, this would be the worst season to come. I personally went in November and it was great. The weather was good and the main sites weren’t particularly busy.

Read: 20 Best places to visit in the Middle East

⚠️ The security when you travel in Egypt

All right. This is the 1-million-dollar question: Is it safe to travel to Egypt?

In the last couple of years, the country has been pretty unlucky, as it has been the target of several terrorist attacks, affecting mainly in Cairo and some parts of the Sinai Peninsula.

If you look at the FCO Travel advice for Egypt , they don’t actually portray it as a very appealing destination.

However, you should know that their recommendation is tremendously biased and super-mega-exaggerated, basically, because if the unlikely happened to you, your Government won’t want to have anything to do with it.

They do this with Egypt and with a big bunch of other destinations.

Read: Is Pakistan safe?

Whereas it is true that Cairo has been a top target for terrorists, what actually happened is a set of very specific attacks in very specific areas in a 10-million city, which means that being affected by one of these unfortunate events is quite unlikely.

The other sensitive part is the Sinai Peninsula but, nowadays, the only unstable part is the area bordering Gaza, which is off-limits for tourists anyways and the rest of the Peninsula is full of military checkpoints.

The rest of the country has maintained safe and stable and, if you are still being skeptical, I invite you to ask anyone who has been there recently.

Another important point to mention is the way people drive .

After traveling all across the Middle East, I had never seen as many reckless drivers as in Egypt, especially those ones who drive the mini-vans, the local public transportation and the transport used for most backpackers. I am telling you that, during my almost 4-week journey, I was about to die 8 times.

🚑 Travel Insurance for Egypt

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🕌 Religion and culture

Most Egyptians are Sunni Muslims but there is a significant Christian community as well, called Christian Copts. These Christians are the actual inventors of hummus, a dish they came up with to replace meat during Lent.

Anyways. Like I was saying, Egypt is a Muslim country and, as such, you should slightly adapt to their customs. Honestly, it isn’t a super conservative country or, at least, they are quite tolerant to Western behaviors, especially because they have been receiving many Western tourists for decades, so they are quite used to see women in light clothing.

However, it is still recommended for women to dress modestly, especially when you get off the main touristic sites. Just bring something extra to cover your shoulders and try to show your legs as little as possible.

Arabic is the official language but all educated Egyptians speak impeccable English and, in touristic places, pretty much everybody can have a decent conversation, so the language barrier doesn’t tend to be a problem when you travel in Egypt.

💰 Money when you travel in Egypt

Egypt uses the Egyptian Pound (EGP) and approximately:

1 USD = 30.63 EGP

Unfortunately for Egyptians but fortunately for travelers, the Egyptian Pound devalued 50% back in 2016, meaning that everything became half-price overnight.

Egypt can be very expensive but it can also be ridiculously cheap. If you travel like the locals do and just eat in local restaurants, you won’t be spending much, as traveling between cities costs less than a few USD and meals even less than a dollar, sometimes.

Budget accommodation is also quite cheap and I think I never paid more than 8USD for a private room. However, your expenses will definitely increase if you hang around the endless tourist traps around the country.

You will also have to pay for all the archaeological sites, with no exception. For you to have a rough idea, on my Luxor guide , you can find the 2018 prices for all the tombs and temples.

🛺 How to move around: Transportation

Remember to get travel insurance for Egypt I strongly recommend IATI Insurance as it has COVID-19 coverage + 5% discount 5% discount if purchasing via this link

Train – The railway network goes from Alexandria to Aswan. Train is a beautiful way to travel around Egypt, especially because it follows the Nile, so the views and landscapes are spectacular.

Mini-buses – A quick and cheap way to move around, even though drivers are nuts. In fact, my Egyptian friends, who are all rich (there is no middle class in Egypt), told me that I was crazy for traveling in one of those.

Taxis – Whatever price they tell you, divide it by 3 and even 5, if you still find it expensive. To avoid bargaining, you can use Uber in Cairo and I think in other cities as well.

🛑 Scams: Being ripped-off in Egypt

Do you know what I really hate about Egypt? In all my travels, I have never ever met so many annoying locals trying to rip me off as in Egypt, and this is the only and unique reason why I will never go back there. Traveling in Egypt involves constantly negotiating and bargaining for absolutely everything, including buying something as simple as a bottle of water.

While waiting for my visa for Sudan , I spent nearly a week in Aswan and, even in places where I was going every day, they tried to charge me ridiculous amounts for just a few apples and simple meals, thinking that I might be stupid or something.

I really hope that the Egyptians will, one day, realize that this is not the way to treat foreigners, especially now that they have experienced a massive tourist drop due to the terrorist threat.

Read: A travel guide to Palestine (Itinerary + Tips)

📍 Traveling in Egypt: 7-day Egypt itinerary

Egypt is big, really big, so trying to squeeze many places in your 1-week Egypt itinerary can be quite challenging, not to say impossible.

In one week, I would recommend you just visit Cairo and Luxor, as you will already find plenty of things to do there and, in any case, they are separated by almost 700km, so you’ll need some time to move to each destination.

However, it is completely up to you, so if you don’t mind rushing, consider adding other places within this article.

Read: A travel guide to Lebanon (Itinerary + Tips)

Map of the 7-day Egypt itinerary

Day 1, 2, 3 – cairo.

Unless you are overlanding from Sudan or Israel, your Egypt itinerary will most likely begin in Cairo, one of the craziest cities in the Middle East.

From chaotic streets filled with the largest amount of traffic you will ever see, air composed of dust, trash everywhere and thinking that you are likely to die every time you cross the street, because trust me, cars don’t stop, the first impressions of Cairo are never good and, in fact, many people hate it.

Nevertheless, Cairo has some amazing sites and, if you try to be optimistic, you may eventually enjoy the beautiful chaos.

Cairo can easily keep you busy for many weeks but if you only have a few days, these are the places I recommend:

Things to do in Cairo

Pyramids of Giza, of course – The highlight of any trip to Egypt.

Egyptian Museum – One of the most impressive museums you will ever see.

Khan el-Khalili bazaar – A traditional bazaar, full of locals but also souvenir shops with plenty of traditional handicrafts and other typical things to buy in Egypt .

Tahrir Square – The main square where the Arab Springs took place.

Hanging Church – Meet the Christian Copts of Cairo.

Zamalek – A pretty big island on The Nile, this is the most Westernized part of Cairo, and where I recommend you to stay.

Where to stay – Here you can find the best affordable hostels in Cairo

Day 4 – Journey from Cairo to Luxor

All right. There are different ways to get to Luxor:

Night train – A good option for time-savers but expensive, as it costs up to 100USD.

Day train – Very cheap, around 10-15USD. You will waste one entire day but the upside is that the train runs along The Nile, so the landscape can’t be more epic.

Bus – Also feasible but not as epic.

Plane – Of course, the quicker option.

My personal recommendation is to take the day train and come back on the night train.

Day 5, 6, 7 – Luxor and the way back to Cairo

The Pyramids in Cairo leave you breathless but Luxor is definitely more awesome and, why not, the main reason why people should travel to Egypt.

Here is where you find the greatest temples, monuments, and tombs ever built during Ancient Egypt, real wonders and architectural masterpieces which are extremely hard to believe that they were built thousands of years ago, yet, many of them are still standing in great condition.

Luxor is far from Cairo but, seriously, you can’t definitely miss it in your Egypt travel itinerary.

For planning your trip to Luxor, read: How to visit Luxor independently, in 2 days

Traveling in Egypt: 14-day Egypt itinerary

If you have 2 weeks in Egypt, consider traveling to the south.

Map of the 14-day Egypt itinerary

Day 1 to 7 – cairo and luxor.

(Already explained before)

Day 8, 9, 10, 11 – Aswan

Why so many days in Aswan?

Because there is plenty to do here and it is a great base for day trips to pretty awesome places.

Aswan is a particularly beautiful city which sits on the Nile shore and has a large population of Nubians, an ethnic group of people indigenous to the Nile region who claim to be the authentic Egyptians.

Around Aswan, there are plenty of Nubian villages which are worth a visit. Some of them are quite touristic, while if you go to the less visited ones, you may receive a hospitality overdose.

By the way, in north Sudan there are plenty of Nubian villages as well, much more untouched. If you are interested about it read my article: Tales of the Nubian people in Sudan

I spent nearly a week in Aswan while waiting for my visa for Sudan and the truth is that I never got bored!

Things to do in Aswan

Visiting Nubian villages – They are just across the river and I recommend visiting Nag el-Balida, a barely visited one. Here are the coordinates: 24.154865, 32.869117.

Philae Temple – One of the greatest temples, located on an island just outside of Aswan.

Sail the Nile on a felucca – You will actually get sick of the locals trying to sell you felucca rides. Get the best price by trying to bargain with 10 different people.

Lake Nasser dam – A very controversial dam on the Nile, but also impressive, that forms the famous Lake Nasser.

Top day trips from Aswan

Camel market of Daraw – The most authentic place I ever visited in my Egypt itinerary. A real, dusty and extremely busy animal market where you will feel like a superstar. The market takes place every Tuesday and Sunday but dates may change. Daraw is 40km north from Aswan. You can go there by mini-bus.

Kom Ombo Temple – North of Daraw, you find this pretty cool ancient temple which is definitely worth a visit, especially because it has a museum with real crocodile mummies. You can actually come here after visiting the camel market of Daraw, on the same day.

Kalabsha temple – The greatest least-visited temple in Egypt. Located on a remote island, there is no tourist infrastructure to reach this temple, so you need to negotiate with the local fishermen. When I went there I had the temple completely to myself. For more information, read: How to get to Kalabsha, the least visited temple in Egypt

How to get to Aswan from Luxor

You can easily come by train.

Day 12,13 – Abu Simbel

In the 13th century BC, when Ramesses II was the Pharaoh in power, in order to commemorate a war victory, he decided to build for his queen and himself, one of the most jaw-dropping remaining monuments that exist today, Abu Simbel.

Abu Simbel is very far away, very close to the border with Sudan , almost 300km south of Aswan but seriously, you won’t regret it.

Day 14 – Way back to Cairo

From Abu Simbel, you can catch a bus to Aswan and, from there, you can take a direct train to Cairo.

📍 Travel to Egypt for 3 weeks

After Cairo, you can head north to explore Alexandria and the Suez Canal, then go to the Sinai Peninsula and, from Sharm el-Sheikh, you can get a ferry to Hurghada, from where you can head straight to Luxor.

Map of the 3-week Egypt itinerary

Day 1 to 3 – cairo, day 4, 5 – alexandria.

Founded by worldwide famous Alexander the Great and the center of Hellenistic civilization, the capital of Roman Egypt for 1,000 years and what used to be home of one of the 7 wonders from the Ancient world, Pharos (lighthouse) Alexandria is, surprisingly, not a very common destination in favor of cities like Cairo, Luxor and Aswan, where you find the most surreal Egyptian ruins.

However, the fact the Alexandria doesn’t tend to be part of most people’s itinerary is, perhaps, the best about it, as here you are likely to experience a very genuine atmosphere in a prime-location city, on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.

Alexandria is a place where to meet locals and enjoy what is, in my opinion, the best food in Egypt, consisting of, mainly, real, fresh Mediterranean fish.

Things to do in Alexandria

Bibliotheca Alexandrina – Where used to stand one of the most important libraries in the world, the reason why Alexandria was often called the capital of knowledge, today, you find a modern new library.

Qaitbay Castle – A pretty cool restored castle by the sea.

Try the local food – There are quite a few great seafood restaurants along the promenade.

How to get to Alexandria

There are daily buses running from Cairo to Alexandria and it is a 3 to 4-hour ride. Bus Station coordinates: 30.062338, 31.246309

Day 6, 7 – Port Said or City of Suez

Since it was first opened in 1869, the Suez Canal has served as a connection between the Mediterranean and the Indian Ocean, saving a journey of thousands of kilometers.

Every day, hundreds of cargo ships make their way through the Canal of Suez and you really want to see that because their vast dimensions are spectacular.

Now, here is the thing. There are two main cities worth a visit that sit on the Canal of Suez: Port Said and the City of Suez. I actually went to Suez and it turned out to be an industrial city and, for security purposes, the military doesn’t allow you to get close to the Canal, which really sucked.

Therefore, I strongly recommend you go to Port Said instead, which is also a particularly beautiful city, more than any other in Egypt.

How to get to Port Said or Suez

From Alexandria, is very easy to reach Port Said and, from there, you can catch a second bus to Suez. If you are in Cairo, there are also direct buses from the main bus station: 30.062338, 31.246309

Day 8, 9, 10 – Dahab and the north-eastern Sinai Peninsula

Dahab is like nowhere else in the Middle East.

Located in the Sinai Peninsula, a native land for the Bedouins, Dahab is, perhaps, the only real backpacking-friendly place in the entire Middle East .

A town usually filled with windsurfers, scuba-divers and a kind of hippy vibe, Dahab is the place to chill, smoke weed and just relax among the most friendly people in Egypt, the super chilled-out Egyptian Bedouins.

I enjoyed my time in Dahab so much by just doing virtually nothing.

Things to do in Dahab

Chill – It is an extremely laid-back town, where people just eat, drink beer and sleep at the beach

Scuba-diving or snorkeling – The underwaters of the Red Sea are home to some of the most incredible and colorful fauna, the Blue Hole being the most popular spot among divers.

Trips into the desert – From Dahab, you can organize plenty of trips deep into the desert, like camel riding, hiking, etc.

Day trips from Dahab

Ras Abu Galum – I recommend you go to this very tiny and untouched village to get a real glimpse of the actual Bedouin culture. The tiny settlement is around 16km from Dahab. For this, you need to first go to the Blue Hole. A taxi may be around 70EGP. From there, you can take a local boat (50EGP) but you can also walk by following the shore.

Day 11 – The journey from Dahab to Luxor

The journey from Dahab to Luxor can be a short one if you manage to take the ferry from Sharm el-Sheikh to Hurghada. Find the latest information here .

However, this ferry is very unreliable. The day I booked my ticket, the ferry was delayed for 5 hours. Then, when we finally got into the boat, they said the weather was too windy, so we couldn’t leave.

In the end, the ferry company took us from Sharm el-Sheikh to Hurghada by bus (around 12 hours) and gave us 50% of the money back.

The ferry should be your first choice but, if there is no ferry, I recommend you take the night bus to Hurghada, from where you can find a quick bus to Luxor. If you can’t find a direct bus, you will need to figure it out but, at least, I am sure you can get a direct bus to Suez and, from there, head down to Hurghada or Luxor.

Day 12 to 21 – Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel and back to Cairo

❗ More resources for traveling in Egypt

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

All guides and articles for traveling in Egypt destination

Travel Guide to Luxor
Off-the-beaten Track to Egypt
Egypt-Sudan border crossing
Kalabsha Temple Travel Guide

Travel guides to other countries in Africa

Ethiopia Travel Guide
Eritrea Travel Guide
Somaliland Travel Guide
Travel Guide to Sudan
Libya Travel Guide
Mali Travel Guide
Travel Guide to Mauritania
Tunisia Travel Guide

Don’t forget to check our travel guides in the Middle East .

In February 2020 it is compulsory to pay 10$ as access to the Blue Hole, bear it in mind those ones who want to go independently to Ras Abu Galum.

Where to buy ???

Hi! This is SUPER helpful for our upcoming trip, but we have one question: how did you get from Suez/ Port of Said to Dahab? We have heard that area is challenging, but are interested in both those cities.

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Itinerary Ideas

How Long to Spend in Egypt: Itineraries for First-Timers

Egypt is the top travel destination in the Middle East and best Arab country for a holiday, boasting pyramids, the Nile, and the Red Sea.

But, when planning your trip to Egypt, how many days are enough? How do we create an itinerary that makes the most of your vacation?

Here, we offer general ideas about trip durations and list four handpicked itineraries from 5 days to 3 weeks, for your inspiration.

Content Preview

1. How Many Days Do You Need
2. Itinerary for a Time-Smart Choice
3. Itinerary for Families
4. Itinerary for Couples
5. Itinerary for an In-Depth Exploration

How Many Days Do You Need in Egypt?

When traveling to Egypt, there are two popular choices: visiting Egypt as part of a Middle East tour or focusing on Egypt.

If you're looking to see the multiple facets of the Middle East during your first visit, you could spend 5–7 days exploring Egypt's iconic destinations, before moving on to the next Middle Eastern country. For a quick trip in a week, you're recommended to visit Cairo for 3 days and then Luxor and Aswan for 2 days each.

If you would prefer to fully embrace the wonders of Egypt, many couples and families spend 10–14 days there for a more-relaxed pace and more diverse experiences. Beyond the "Golden Triangle route" (Cairo–Luxor–Aswan), you could also immerse yourself in an amazing Nile cruise (4–5 days) or unwind on the incredible beaches by the Red Sea.

To delve more deeply, you could extend your Egypt trip for over 2 weeks to go off the beaten path, such as to Mount Sinai (1day) and White Desert (3 days), unveil more hidden gems in the popular cities, or have a longer beach vacation at the Red Sea.

Both highly-rated and experienced at customizing private tours, we're experts at personalizing your itinerary to suit your preferred trip duration.

Get to know more ideas about planning a trip to Egypt >>>

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Egypt Itinerary for a Time-Smart Choice: 5–7 Days

For first-timers, 5–7 days offer a compact window of time to discover the most popular destinations at a comfortable pace: Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan.

Cairo is a must for the celebrated pyramids, the Sphinx, and the Grand Egyptian Museum.
Luxor is not to be missed owing to the incredible tombs and temples, particularly the Valley of the Kings.
Aswan offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy the serene Nile and visit the island temples of Philae. Additionally, Aswan provides easy access to the impressive Abu Simbel site.

You can see the following time-smart itinerary for a week's trip to Egypt. For a shorter 5-day tour, you could visit two of the three cities in one trip.

Days 1–3 in Cairo (the Giza pyramid complex, the Cairo Citadel, and the Khan el–Khalili market)
Days 4–5 in Luxor (the Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, and the Karnak temple complex)
Days 6–7 in Aswan (the Philae temple complex, the Aswan High Dam, and a sunset felucca trip along the Nile)

You could also get more itinerary ideas about how to combine Egypt in multi-country Middle East trips or the top itineraries for 5 days in Egypt .

Egypt Itinerary for Families: 10 Days

If you're planning a family trip to Egypt, this itinerary is specially crafted for you. You and your kids could indulge in great cultural highlights and bask on sunny beaches.

You could see more family-friendly activities in the following outlined itinerary. Or tell us your interests and we'd love to help to create your ideal family vacation.

Days 1–3 in Cairo (exploring multi-generational pyramids by camel riding, Cairo Citadel, food tours, the Khan el-Khalili market)
Day 4 inAswan (the High Dam, the Temple of Philae, and sunset felucca ride)
Days 5–6 in Luxor (unveilingthe Pharaohs' tombs, sunrise balloon ride and/or a nighttime city tour by horse and carriage)
Days 7–10 in Hurghada (beach activities like snorkeling and diving, an Aqua Park at the Titanic Palace, and a desert safari day trip to a Bedouin village)

To add more fun to your family trip, we have specifically customized activities for you. You'll have the opportunity to marvel at the pyramids when riding on a camel or horse, sample the unique flavors of Egypt through our foodie tours in Cairo, take a night trip to Luxor by horse-drawn carriage, and experience a jeep desert safari near Hurghada.

We also have more Middle East family vacation alternatives ready to tailor to your needs, such as a 2-week Egypt and Jordan trip and a 15-day Israel, Jordan, and Egypt tour .

You could get more itinerary ideas in Egypt Itineraries for 10 Days >>>

Egypt Itinerary for Couples: 14 Days

This 2-week itinerary is specially designed for couples seeking a memorable trip. Compared with 10 days, you could have a more relaxing tour pace and have a fuller view of Egypt.

You could get inspiration from the following itinerary, which forms the basis of many of our clients' couple trips.

Days 1–3 in Cairo (the Giza pyramid complex with a camel ride, the Cairo Citadel, the Khan el-Khalili market, Saqqara, and the El Tannoura Dance Show)
Day 4 in Aswan (Abu Simbel)
Days 5–8 on a Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor (visit the Temple of Horus on a horse-drawn carriage, the Kom Ombo Temple, rustic scenery along the Nile, the Aswan High Dam, and the Philae temple complex)
Days 9–10 in Luxor (the Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, the Karnak temple complex, and a sunrise hot-air balloon ride)
Days 11–14 in El Quseir (relax by the Red Sea and visit Quseir Castle)

You'll experience the magic of Egypt's rich history together through our immersive cultural experiences. Besides the popular pyramid tours in Giza, we have specially arranged a day trip to Saqqara, which boasts a less-crowded experience of the pyramids. Watching the fabulous El Tannoura Dance Show together creates the perfect ending to your romantic evening in Cairo.

For a milestone celebration, what could be more romantic than embarking on a thrilling sunrise balloon ride over Luxor? Hold your beloved and capture memorable pictures with photogenic views.

To enhance the intimacy of your romantic getaway, indulge in a leisurely Nile River cruise between Luxor and Aswan. For even more privacy, we highly recommend sa iling along the Nile in a dahabiya. Just for 10–12 people, it offers more luxury and exclusive experiences for you both!

For your beach time, you're recommended to visit El Quseir for its tranquility and untouched charm. Besides the stunning beach scenery and fantastic water activities, you could also uncover the hidden gems of Quseir Castle.

An Egypt Itinerary for an In-Depth Exploration: 3 Weeks

Beyond the 2-week itinerary sights, with 3 weeks you could discover cultural attractions like Abu Simbel more fully, have more free time for a beach vacation, experience local life, or go for some adventures, such as a hike to Mount Sinai and venturing to a desert oasis — the Siwa Oasis.

But more often, you're recommended to combine Egypt with other countries, such as Jordan and Israel, for your 3-week vacation . You could spend 1 week in Egypt, 1 week in Israel, and 1 week in Jordan.

For further ideas, feel free to contact us and we will create your ideal itinerary based on your preferences, group size, and other needs. You could also check out our 18-Day Egypt, Israel, and Jordan Tour for further inspiration or more itinerary options on 3-Week Itineraries to Egypt, Jordan, and Israel for First-Timers >>>

Booking Your Egypt Trips With Us

Want more itinerary options? You can check our handpicked itineraries for various durations: 5 days , 7 days , 10 days , 12 days , 14 days , and 3 weeks ...

You are warmly welcomed to have us customize your own trip based on your group size, interests, and other needs. Sit back and use our Create My Trip service.

For inspiration, you could also see the following popular Egypt tours:

9-Day Essential Egypt Tour with Nile Cruise
10-Day Egypt Family Expedition Tour
12-Day Best Egypt Tour with Sharm El Sheikh
2-Week Egypt and Jordan Family Adventure Tour
More Egypt Tours

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10-Day Private Egypt Active Family Expedition Tour

9-Day Egypt Tour with Mount Sinai
10-Day Private Egypt Active Family Expedition Tour
12-Day Egypt Luxury Tour with Abu Simbel
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16-Day Grand Egypt Tour with White Desert
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Private tour group at Giza Pyramids with Sphinx and Egyptian Museum visit.

How to Plan a Trip to Egypt: Essential Travel Tips

The ultimate guide to planning a trip to egypt.

Embarking on a journey to the land of pharaohs and pyramids is undoubtedly an exciting adventure. Egypt, with its rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking landscapes, offers countless opportunities for exploration and discovery. But how can you make the most of your visit to this enchanting destination? In this article, we’ll guide you through the essential steps to planning your dream trip to Egypt .

Experience unforgettable, Tailor-Made Egypt Travel with top-rated guides. Explore iconic sites and hidden gems at your own pace while enjoying 5-star accommodations and personalized attention. Immerse yourself in Egypt’s rich history and culture for a memorable adventure.

When to Visit Egypt

Best Time to Visit Egypt

The ideal time to visit Egypt is between October and April when temperatures are cooler, making it more comfortable to explore the ancient sites and monuments. However, it’s important to note that this is also the peak season for tourism, meaning that popular attractions can be crowded, and prices may be higher.

Peak Season and Off-Peak Season

While visiting Egypt during the peak season has its advantages, off-peak travel (May to September) can also be rewarding. Although temperatures can be sweltering during the day, you’ll experience fewer crowds and lower prices. Just be sure to pack appropriate clothing and stay hydrated!

Planning Your Itinerary

Must-Visit Attractions

A well-planned itinerary can make your trip to Egypt unforgettable. Some must-visit attractions include:

The Great Pyramids of Giza
The Valley of the Kings
The Egyptian Museum
Luxor Temple
Karnak Temple

Remember, it’s essential to allocate enough time to fully explore each site, as rushing through these historical treasures would be a disservice to their significance.

Exploring Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations

While Egypt’s famous landmarks are undoubtedly worth visiting, don’t forget to explore lesser-known gems. Consider adding destinations like the Siwa Oasis, the White Desert, or the Red Sea coastal towns to your itinerary for a more well-rounded Egyptian experience.

Accommodations

Budget, mid-range, and luxury options.

Egypt offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget. From budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxurious five-star hotels, you’re sure to find the perfect place to rest your head after a long day of exploration.

Unique Stays

For a more authentic experience, consider booking a traditional Egyptian guesthouse, a Nubian village homestay, or even a night on a felucca (traditional sailboat) along the Nile.

Food and Dining Experiences

Traditional egyptian cuisine.

Egyptian cuisine is a delightful mix of flavors and influences from various regions. Be sure to immerse yourself in the local food culture by sampling traditional dishes and visiting local markets.

Popular Dishes and Where to Find Them

Some popular Egyptian dishes you should try include:

Ful Medames – A staple breakfast dish made of fava beans, spices, and olive oil.
Koshari – A hearty, vegetarian street food classic consisting of rice, pasta, lentils, chickpeas, and tomato sauce.
Molokhia – A delicious soup made from jute leaves, garlic, and spices, typically served with rice or bread.
Shawarma – Thinly sliced meat (usually chicken or beef) wrapped in pita bread with various toppings.

You can find these dishes at local street food vendors, traditional cafes, and restaurants throughout Egypt.

Transportation

Getting to and around egypt.

Most international flights arrive at Cairo International Airport, which offers multiple connections to other cities within Egypt. Domestic flights, buses, and trains are available for traveling between cities.

For a more leisurely and scenic experience, consider taking a Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan, where you’ll witness the breathtaking beauty of the Nile Valley.

Safety and Security

While public transportation is generally safe in Egypt, it’s important to remain vigilant and keep an eye on your belongings. For added peace of mind, consider hiring a private driver or joining a guided tour.

Travel Tips

Cultural etiquette.

Respecting local customs and traditions is crucial when visiting any country. In Egypt, dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Be mindful of local prayer times and avoid photographing people without permission.

Health and Safety Precautions

It’s essential to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun while traveling in Egypt. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle. Additionally, ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance and any necessary vaccinations before your trip.

A trip to Egypt is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories. By carefully considering the best time to visit, planning your itinerary, selecting accommodations, and being mindful of cultural etiquette and safety precautions, you can make the most of your adventure in the Land of the Pharaohs.

Do I need a visa to visit Egypt? Most nationalities require a visa to enter Egypt. You can apply for an e-visa online or obtain a visa-on-arrival at the airport.
What currency is used in Egypt? The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). It’s recommended to carry some local currency for small purchases and tipping.
Is it safe to drink tap water in Egypt? It’s best to avoid drinking tap water in Egypt. Stick to bottled or filtered water to stay healthy during your trip.
Can I use credit cards in Egypt? Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases and when visiting more rural locations.
What languages are spoken in Egypt? The official language of Egypt is Arabic. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas and among younger generations.

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10-Day Wonders of Egypt and Cruise on Nile

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Discover Egypt’s visa landscape through our detailed guide on visa types, prerequisites, and procedures, paving the way for a seamless trip to this remarkable destination.

Explore Timeless Pyramids and Temples in Egypt

Dive deep into the mysteries of ancient Egypt with Egypt Tours, exploring the grandeur of its pyramids and temples, and uncovering the stories of the Pharaohs.

Is it Safe to Travel to Egypt in 2024?

Discover the latest updates on the safety and security in Egypt and learn about our recommendations for a worry-free trip to this historic destination in 2023. Book your Egypt tour package now!

How Much Does a 7-Day Trip to Egypt Cost?

Egypt is a nation brimming with historical and cultural richness, boasting famous attractions like the Sphinx and Great Pyramids, vibrant metropolises such as Cairo and Alexandria, and a stunning Red Sea coastline.

The Perfect 5-Day Itinerary for Cairo and Luxor: Uncover Egypt’s Ancient Wonders

Discover the awe-inspiring ancient wonders of Egypt with our expertly crafted 5-day itinerary for Cairo and Luxor. Witness the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings, and more!

Discover the ideal time to visit Egypt for comfortable weather and unforgettable experiences. Explore ancient wonders and vibrant culture without the crowds.

START PLANNING YOUR TRIP

Our team of experts have a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you plan your adventure of a lifetime.

Ultimate Egypt Itinerary for 7 Days, 10 Days or 2 Weeks

Planning the perfect Egypt itinerary is never an easy task, because this is one of the largest countries in North Africa, and there’s a lot to try and fit in.

Any first time Egypt itinerary needs to include all the best things that the country is known for, and that means you’ll be delving into ancient history, and exploring tombs and pyramids.

You’ll also be cruising along the Nile River and then saving some time to relax on the beaches of Hurghada, at Egypt’s Red Sea resorts.

There’s a lot to fit in, and we promise to use all of the knowledge and experience we have gained from our 7 weeks of travel in Egypt to help you plan the perfect trip.

To inspire your North African adventure, here’s our guide to crafting the perfect Egypt Itinerary.

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Egypt (Travel Guide)

Putting Together the Ultimate Egypt Itinerary

Table of Contents

The Best Time to Visit

David Stock Jr of Divergent Travelers Adventure Travel blog exploring Egypt

Egypt enjoys hot weather all year round, with a Mediterranean climate on the coast and a more desert-like climate in the interior.

The most popular time to visit is in winter and spring, between November and April when the weather is much cooler but still beautiful. This is peak season though so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

From May through to August the weather is blisteringly hot, but you’ll beat the crowds, while fall can be a lovely time to visit.

Read more Best Time to Visit Egypt: Month by Month Breakdown

Getting Around in Egypt

When planning your Egypt Itinerary you’ll need to consider the best way to travel around. It’s a big country so to save on time you’ll want to fly between the north and the south or take overnight trains.

You can take a flight or sleeper train from Cairo to Luxor for instance, or Cairo to Hurghada. The best way to get from Luxor to Aswan is the scenic route, along the Nile River.

You can visit Egypt independently or you can have your tour organized in advance.

If you want to save time and hassle then having everything arranged or being part of a group tour makes traveling to Egypt so much easier, especially if it’s your first time in the country.

We recommend having at least 2 weeks for a well-rounded Egypt itinerary, giving you enough time to see the highlights and to enjoy a few more relaxed days during the trip.

However, we will also layout itineraries for both 7 day and 10 day options in this guide too.

Costs & Budget

David Stock Jr of Divergent Travelers Adventure Travel Blog with the Key of Life.

By most standards, Egypt is an inexpensive country to travel around. You can comfortably stay in private accommodation and hotels and eat out each night and you can still keep your costs below 50 USD per person per day.

Budget travelers can easily spend much less than that too, by taking local transport and eating at the really local places.

Safety in Egypt

Egypt can be a chaotic and confusing place to visit for first-time travelers, and in terms of travel, it can be both a challenge and an experience.

Part of the challenge can be the safety aspects, and while the country is safe to visit you do need to be careful of petty theft and unfortunately, harassment too.

Look after your belongings and watch your pockets in crowded markets and public transport. Also keep on top of the news and political events, as this can be an unstable part of the world to be in.

7 Days in Egypt Itinerary

Egypt is a big country, and you don’t want to underestimate the distances between the cities when you’re planning how to get around and planning how long you’ve got to explore.

This said, 7 days is the absolute least amount of time you can give yourself to see the very high-level sites of Egypt. You will miss stuff, but we can definitely work with a one week Egypt itinerary.

7 Day Egypt Itinerary Overview:

Day 1: Arrive in Cairo
Day 2: Cairo – Tour the Pyramids of Giza & Egyptian Museum
Day 3: Fly to Luxor – Tour temples and join Nile River Cruise
Day 4: Nile Cruise – Luxor West Bank & sailing
Day 5: Nile Cruise – Edfu, Kom Ombo & sailing
Day 6: Nile Cruise – Aswan & Abu Simbel option
Day 7: Aswan – Philae Temple, High Dam & Fly to Cairo
Day 8: Depart Cairo

I will not lie, this is going to be a rushed and shallow overview of what Egypt has to offer. However, you will get a good taste and see many of the places that Egypt is famous for.

As you can see, I have suggested the addition of a Nile River Cruise because with only one week in Egypt, you will want to maximize your time. You can do this by having the bulk of your sightseeing as part of your tranportation.

We have traveled Egypt both independently, on a tour and by cruise. If you choose to forego the cruise, know that you will not be able to see Edfu and Kom Ombo.

You will also not have the time to visit Abu Simbel because you will need to give up a day to transportation logistics. In my opinion, it is simply not worth it and highly recommend the cruise option.

Cairo: 1 to 2 Days

David Stock Jr of Divergent Travelers Adventure Travel Blog at The Pyramids of Giza

Cairo is Egypt’s capital, the largest city in the country and for many travelers, it’s usually the starting point for any Egypt itinerary.

Yes, Cairo is big. It’s chaotic and it’s sprawling, but it’s also exciting and enthralling in equal measure.

You won’t need more than a few days, but with great museums, bustling bazaars and the iconic Pyramids of Giza to see, there’s a lot to pack in.

How much time you spend in Cairo will depend entirely on how many days you have for your Egypt itinerary. On a 7 day itinerary, you will have time to only tour the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum.

Both of which are must not miss sites in Egypt. However, with longer itineraries, you will have more time to explore Cairo and it is worth it.

Popular Things to See in Cairo

THE PYRAMIDS OF GIZA

While Cairo itself doesn’t date back to the time of the Ancient Egyptians, just outside the city you can find the Pyramids of Giza. Dating back thousands of years, these iconic structures are a must-see.

Experience ancient Egypt first-hand on a private tour from Cairo or Giza to the Giza Pyramids and Sphinx, and Saqqara . Walk alongside your guide as you visit a trio of pyramids and the Valley Temple, then visit the ancient and mysterious sphinx.

THE MUSEUM OF EGYPTIAN ANTIQUITIES

Lina Stock of the Divergent Travelers Adventure Travel Blog at the Egyptian Museum.

This epic museum is easily the best in Egypt, with a huge collection of artifacts that will take you back to the ancient world.

Discover the Egyptian Museum, one of the most incredible museums for Egyptian antiquities in the world with a certified Egyptologist guide during this half-day trip to Cairo . Step back in time 5,000 years as you explore the museum’s collection of more than 160,000 jaw-dropping ancient objects.

KHAN EL-KHALILI BAZAAR

A sprawling market place where you can buy almost anything. Haggle and joke with the vendors as you delve into the local culture.

Read more 21 Amazing Things to Do in Cairo

Luxor: 2 to 4 Days

Luxor is found in the south of Egypt, along the beautiful, green banks of the Nile River.

This is one of the best stops on any Egypt Itinerary if you’re into your Ancient Egyptian history.

Luxor was known to antiquity as Thebes and it was an important capital for the Egyptian Pharaohs, many of whom are buried in the valleys around the city.

Popular Things to See in Luxor

VALLEY OF THE KINGS

The Valley of the Kings is the single most important archeological site in Egypt. This is where many Pharaohs had their tombs and monuments built, including the infamous boy-king, Tutankhamun.

See the highlights of Luxor on this full-day tour of the East and West Bank of the Nile . Explore the city’s magnificent temples, tombs, and monuments in the company of an Egyptologist guide.

Includes visits to the Valley of the Kings, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and Karnak Temple.

KARNAK TEMPLE

Lina and David Stock (Americas Adventure Couple) exploring in Luxor Egypt

This huge temple complex is located in the city itself and is one of the main reasons why Luxor is often called the largest open-air museum in the world.

Book this great combo admission ticket and private transport service to see the Karnak Light and Sound Show at Luxor hassle-free . Watch the history of Egypt’s pharaohs unfold while you walk around the ancient temple complex. Getting there is easy with an included round-trip transfer.

HOT AIR BALLOON FLIGHTS

One of the best ways to see Luxor is from above, and hot air balloon rides are an increasingly popular activity in the city.

Take in aerial views of Luxor and its iconic landmarks on this private 45-minute hot air balloon flight . Your guide will be dedicated to just you and your private party.

You’ll be able to ask questions and listen to commentary tailored to your interests. All transportation to and from the launch site is included for a door-to-door experience.

Read more 15 Epic Things to Do in Luxor, Egypt

Nile River Cruise: 5 to 7 Days

No Egypt Itinerary is ever complete without a cruise along the famous Nile River.

At well over 4000 miles in length, this is the longest river in the world, and it’s famously green and verdant in comparison to the surrounding desert sands of Egypt.

The best part of the river to cruise is the section heading south from Luxor to Aswan. This is virtually the only way to visit the temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo.

You can join multi-day excursions where you sleep on the boat and call in at temples and tombs during the day. The length of the Nile River Cruise can vary but you’ll want at least 4 days to really make the most of it.

To visit these historic places comfortably, and easily, savvy travelers consider this inclusive, multi-day cruise down the Nile River . Enjoy several stops along the way, and hop off the ship to see ancient tombs, temples, and monuments.

Aswan: 2 to 3 Days

Aswan is another wonderful stop on any Egyptian Itinerary because like its neighbor Luxor, along the river to the north, this is a place that’s overflowing with history.

In Aswan, you can marvel at temples and enjoy the serenity of the Nile River, as you delve into ancient history. The city is also the gateway to the stunning Abu Simbel, located near the border of Sudan.

Aswan is a special place in that is unlike any other place you will visit in Egypt. It has a completely different vibe and culture, so it’s worth spending a few more days here uncovering that.

Popular Things to See in Aswan

NUBIAN MUSEUM

Learn all about ancient Nubian culture and history at the excellent Nubian Museum.

Explore the Nubia Museum with an Egyptologist on a private 1.5-hour tour , and discover Aswan’s most stunning artifacts.

ELEPHANTINE ISLAND

Found in the middle of the Nile River, Elephantine Island was the original site of Aswan when it was a trading post and frontier town on the edge of the Egyptian empire.

Visit ruins and temples and enjoy well preserved Archeological sites.

Read more 15 Things to Do in Aswan, Egypt (For First Time Visitors!)

Abu Simbel: 1 Day

Carry on south towards the Sudanese border from Aswan, and you’ll reach the incredible temple complex at Abu Simbel.

You only need one day to visit, but you’ll be impressed by the engineering and artistry of the ancient Egyptians who constructed this epic temple.

Dedicated to the Gods of old, the temple was commissioned by Pharaoh Ramesses II thousands of years ago.

The temples were literally carved from the cliff face where you still find it today, having stood the test of time in the deserts of North Africa.

See the ancient marvel of Abu Simbel on a private day trip from Aswan . Journey southward by private, air-conditioned vehicle as your personal guide shares tales of the 3,400-year-old complex, a masterwork of ancient Egyptian engineering beside Lake Nasser.

Ideal 10 Days in Egypt Itinerary

While the above 7 day Egypt itinerary is a possibility for someone with limited time, I would recommend that 10 days be the absolute minimum if you can swing it.

Adding an additional 3 days to your itinerary will give you time to see more in and around Cairo. This includes both the City of Saladin and Coptic Cairo, both of which have very rich history.

You’ll also be able to see the incredible sites of Saqqara, Dashur and Memphis, where pyramids pre-date the Pyramids of Giza. All of which are essential in understanding the evolution of ancient Egypt.

10 Day Egypt Itinerary Overview:

Day 8: Cairo – Take a city tour to Coptic Cairo & the City of Saladin
Day 9: Cairo – Take a day trip to Saqqara, Dashur & Memphis
Day 10: Depart Cairo

This 10 day Egypt itinerary includes all of the stops mentioned above, with Cairo in greater detail as I already mentioned.

The biggest addition is the day spent exploring the Saqqara complex, Dashur, ancient city of Memphis and Imhotep Museum. The highlights of this can be found below. Trust me when I say you don’t want to miss it.

Saqqara, Dashur & Memphis : 1 Day

Bent Pyramid at Saqqara - Egypt itinerary

Located 30km from central Cairo, the Saqqara Complex and surrounding sites are some of the most spectacular, yet under-visited attractions in Egypt.

The Step Pyramid of Djoser is a spectacular, and recently restored, example of the first pyramids in Egypt. Surrounding this pyramid is a massive complex full of tombs with well-preserved wall art too.

We have shown photos to people of these tombs and everyone immediately assumes they are from the Valley of the Kings. Wrong! These are impressive things to be seen in Saqqara.

Nearby and sitting in the middle of the desert landscape are the Dashur and Red Pyramids. The two structures that link the Bent Pyramid to the most famous architecture of pyramids that we know today.

Pair this with the opportunity to visit the second largest Sphinx in Egypt, see a massive statue that was unearthed of Ramses II, a chance to gaze upon the oldest mummy ever found and this makes for a spectacular day of uncovering ancient Egypt.

Popular Stops on this Day Trip

SAQQARA TOMBS & STEP PYRAMID OF DJOSER

As I’ve already mentioned, there are some spectacular tombs to explore around the Saqqara Complex. Unlike the Valley of the Kings, where all the tombs are meters underground, the tombs of Saqqara on ground level and easy to access.

Many of them are free to enter and inside you’ll find intricate hieroglyphs depicting daily life in ancient Egypt. You’ll also find detailed cartouche etchings that tell the story of the tomb’s occupant.

BENT PYRAMID OF DASHUR

One of my favorite things about the Bent Pyramid of Dashur is that you can climb inside to the burial chambers for free. This is not for the faint of heart of claustraphobic.

The shaft is long, narrow and decends deep into the pyramid. Once inside, you climb up and down stairs, including another smaller shaft before entering the final chamber.

On the exterior, you can compare the design flaws that led to it’s shape as the Egyptians transitioned from step pyramids to the iconic design we know today.

RED PYRAMID

While this pyramid doesn’t look much different from the Giza Pyramids, it is actually very important. This was the very first construction of the classic pyramid shape that we know today.

The Red Pyramid was built after the failed completion of the Bent Pyramid. The Egyptians, using the knowledge that they had gained about mathematics and geometry, made the angles less steep.

It is possible to go inside of this pyramid now and it is also free of charge. If tomb raiding is your thing, I’d recommend you come here versus paying the high prices to enter the Giza Pyramids. Truthfully, they all look the same inside!

IMHOTEP MUSEUM

This museum sees few people but that is unwarranted. It houses a wonderful collection of ancient artifacts that have been exumed from Saqqara.

There are plenty of pristine examples of pottery, jewelry, hieroglyphics and art to see here. You can also observe a beautifully preserved mummy, which happens to be the oldest known one in all of Egypt.

MEMPHIS OPEN AIR MUSEUM

In Ancient Egypt, it was Memphis that housed the capital of civilization. Today, not much exists of the city but, in my opinion, it is still worth visiting.

Located in an open-air museum (pictured above) you can closely view a massive statue of Ramses II that was uncovered on the site.

Outside, you’ll find the second-largest Sphinx in the country along with several exhumed pillars and statues from the city.

Ideal 2 Weeks in Egypt Itinerary

A 2 week Egypt itinerary is the absolute sweet spot. This will get you into all the good spots and also give you time to relax on the Red Sea.

It also sends you all the way to the North to explore the city of Alexandria on the Mediterranean Sea. Here, you’ll find a strong overlap of Roman and Egyptian history.

2 Weeks in Egypt Itinerary Overview:

Day 3: Cairo – Take a day trip to Saqqara, Dashur & Memphis
Day 3: Fly to Luxor – Tour Luxor & Karnak Temples
Day 4: Luxor – Day trip to Dendera & Abydos, join Nile Cruise
Day 5: Nile Cruise – Luxor West Bank & sailing
Day 6: Nile Cruise – Edfu, Kom Ombo & sailing
Day 7: Nile Cruise – Aswan & Abu Simbel option
Day 8: Aswan – Philae Temple, High Dam & Fly to Hurghada
Day 9: Hurghada – Relax on the Red Sea
Day 10: Hurghada – Relax on the Red Sea
Day 11: Morning on the beach then fly to Cairo
Day 12: Cairo – Take a city tour to Coptic Cairo & the City of Saladin
Day 13: Cairo – Take a day trip to Alexandria
Day 14: Depart Cairo

While I have sent you to Hurghada, mainly due to logistics, it is also realistic that you could exchange this for either Sharm el Sheikh or Dahab instead.

Personally, I prefer Dahab, as it is more laid back and the diving up there is spectacular. The resorts are also very affordable and simple compared to both Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada.

Logistically though, reaching Dahab is going to require more effort than the other two options. For me, Hurghada becomes the second choice over Sharm el Sheikh, simply due to how commercial it is structured.

That said, you cannot go wrong with any of the towns on the Red Sea. You will find some stunning coral, loads of fish, shipwrecks and plenty of companies willing to take you out diving or snorkeling for the day.

Alexandria: 1 Day

Alexandria is Egypt’s second city, and one of the largest cities in the Mediterranean Sea.

It’s a bustling metropolis that dates back thousands of years to the time of Alexander the Great, who founded the city as he conquered the known world.

Today, it’s the perfect addition to any Egypt Itinerary, being just a 3-hour train ride from Cairo and offering layer upon layer of history to peel back, from the ancient Egyptians and Romans through to the Islamic era.

Popular Things to See in Alexandria

BIBLIOTHECA ALEXANDRINA

In the Ancient World, Alexandria was a famed place of learning, known for its exceptional library.

The library was lost though, burnt down by the Romans, but in recent years the Egyptians opened up the Bibliotheca Alexandrina as a tribute to the city’s past.

It’s a library and a cultural center and you can visit four museums on-site to learn more.

Join this luxurious tour at the legendary city founded by Alexander the Great. You can see there many thousands of books.

The library has shelf space for eight million books, with the main reading room covering 20,000 square meters on eleven cascading levels.

You will also visit abbo el Abbas mosque which was redesigned and was influenced by Egypt’s Old Cairo buildings and architecture.

CATACOMBS OF KOM EL-SHOQAFA

Journey below ground to see the exceptionally well-preserved Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa, many of which date back to the Roman era.

In this great Alexandria tour, they cover the highlights of the city. Visit the catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa, the Pompeii’s pillar, the citadel of Quetbay, and many more. you will have free time for lunch.

After enjoying Alexandria you will be dropped off back at your hotel.

ALEXANDRIA CORNICHE

The long Corniche is a great way to see the best of Alexandrina. Take a walk along this seafront boulevard, and enjoy sweeping views over the harbor and the Mediterranean.

Read more 15 Unmissable Things to Do in Alexandria, Egypt

Hurghada: 3 to 5 Days

Hurghada is Egypt’s Red Sea resort destination, and this beautiful stretch of coastline is the best place in the country to relax and unwind.

You can lounge on beaches, enjoy world-class snorkeling or Scuba Diving and make the most of the sunshine and the great hotels.

Popular Things to See in Hurghada

SNORKELING & SCUBA DIVING

Hurghada is one of the best diving and snorkeling destinations in the world. There are coral reefs just off the coast, while more advanced divers can descend to deep shipwrecks.

Head out on the waters of the Red Sea on a full-day snorkeling tour from Hurghada . You’ll travel by boat toward Giftun Island, where you can jump in to swim and snorkel with the native marine life. Lunch is provided on board.

DESERT SAFARIS

Away from the coast, you can head into the desert to discover how the local Bedouin have lived for hundreds of years. Join a jeep safari or hire quad bikes, as you bash through wadis and dunes.

Experience a fantastic adventure far away from mass tourism on this day trip from Hurghada .

Learn about the four-wheeled vehicles and you familiarize yourself with your vehicle. Then you have one hour for a fast ride through the desert.

Navigate over sand dunes and through the canyons that run through this unique landscape.

You’ll reach a small Bedouin village, where you have the opportunity to explore the desert a little more relaxed on the back of a camel. Enjoy the beautiful sunset in the desert of a small hill and follow the rhythm of the Bedouin.

Read more 15 Top Things to Do in Hurghada, Egypt

Putting it All Together

The biggest thing is to make sure that you have given yourself enough time to truly see the best of Egypt. As I’ve pointed out, it can be done in 7 days, but 2 weeks is definitely the sweet spot.

Where you go and what you do will have a lot to do with how much time you have and your budget. It is possible to experience Egypt as a backpacker on a budget, in a high-end luxury way and everything in between.

Feel free to share your Egypt itinerary ideas and questions below!

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Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

Iconic 7-13 Day Egypt Itinerary for First Timers

All of the best places to visit in Egypt are spread throughout the country, making creating an itinerary to visit them all quite a challenge.

While fitting all the most popular attractions into one trip is going to be quite the packed schedule, don’t let that scare you away!

I’ve created the perfect itinerary for first-time visitors to Egypt, even if you have just 7 days! It’s all based on my own experience as a solo female traveler but it’s a great itinerary for anyone.

Below I’ve given you all the details you need to complete the trip in an efficient and affordable way with some bonus trips for those who want to extend their trip up to nearly 2 weeks.

Egypt Itinerary Highlights

Sounds & Light Show at the Pyramids
Saqqara Necropolis ancient burial grounds
Valley of the Kings
Snorkeling with Wild Dolphins
Boat Ride on the Nile
Hot air balloon ride

Overview of the Perfect 7-13 Day Egypt Itinerary

Whether you have 1 week or 2, crafting the perfect itinerary to make the most of your vacation is vital when planning your first trip to Egypt.

Luckily for you, I’ve crafted the perfect itinerary for first-time visitors to savor the best of this incredible country without feeling rushed. I also have some handy travel tips that you will want to read before you set off.

In just 7 days you’ll visit all of Egypt’s most popular ancient wonders , and if you have a few more days, we’ll dive deeper into some of the country’s more hidden gems that are equally as worthy of your time.

Day 1: Cairo – Arrival + Sounds & Light Show at the Pyramids. Day 2: Cairo – Visit the Pyramids, Sphinx & Saqqara + Egyptian Museum + flight to Hurghada. Day 3: Hurghada – Snorkeling with wild dolphins & desert ATV trip. Day 4: Transfer from Hurghada to Luxor Day 5: Luxor – Explore West Bank Day 6: Luxor – Hot-air balloon flight + Karnak & Luxor Temples + felucca ride on Nile River. Day 7: Domestic flight to Cairo OR continue onto Aswan Day 8-10: Aswan – Visits to Edfu, Kom Ombo & Abu Simbel Temples, Nubian museum, High Dam & the unfinished obelisk + Late flight to Cairo. Day 11-12: Bahariya Oasis Tour – hot and cold springs + Temple of Alexander the Great Day 13: Final departure from Cairo with optional Hanging Church and Saladin Citadel.

How to Get Around Egypt

Egypt is quite a large country and for most of this itinerary, the best way to get between larger cities is to fly . While trains and buses are an option for many of these legs, the distances are much longer and will eat into a lot of your vacation time.

That being said, there are a handful of smaller towns where you will need to take a transfer or bus to your destination. But don’t worry, I have tried to keep the travel time down where I can in this itinerary.

One last option that I have included for those of you who have 2 weeks to travel is a Nile Cruise from Luxor to Aswan which could be an incredible experience for those who have the time.

When to Visit Egypt

Picking the right time for your Egyptian adventure is vital if you want to make the most of your trip as Egypt’s weather can get pretty extreme.

The best time to visit Egypt is from October to April when the weather is not too hot yet still more than sunny enough to enjoy all of the country’s best attractions.

Keep in mind that the Islamic holy month of Ramadan often falls within this time frame, during which many shops and restaurants will be closed during the day.

May to September are Egypt’s summer months when it can reach temperatures up to 122 F (50C), especially in Upper Egypt.

These extreme temperatures make outdoor activities a bit of a challenge in Summer , but if you’re a sun worshipper and plan to stick to the coast, you can still enjoy the Mediterranean and Red Sea beaches. Just be prepared for some scorching days!

Complete 7 Day Egypt Itinerary

Day 1: arrival in cairo.

Your Egyptian odyssey begins in Cairo, the bustling capital. After landing at Cairo International Airport, head to your chosen accommodation for check-in and get ready to start your adventure with a visit to the legendary Pyramids of Giza.

Since you will probably be quite tired from traveling, take the time to settle in before heading out to see the captivating Sound & Light Show at the Pyramids in the evening.

It’s an immersive experience that takes you on a journey through Egypt’s history as it’s projected on the pyramids around 7:30 p.m .

Where to Stay in Cairo

Kempinski Nile Hotel – Luxurious 5-star hotel with a rooftop pool overlooking the city and Nile River.

Panorama View Pyramids – Beautiful modern hotel with incredible Pyramid view.

Sphinx and Pyramids Inn – Budget-friendly hotel with a view of the Pyramids.

Day 2: Cairo & Flight to Hurghada

I hope you didn’t think that you’d only get to see the pyramids once on this trip! Today we’re heading back for a second glitz with more time to explore the sites more thoroughly.

Begin by visiting the Great Sphinx , the guardian of the pyramids. Gaze upon this mysterious statue and contemplate its history before taking an iconic picture of kissing from a distance.

The colossal structures you’ll see are unmissable wonders of the ancient world. You can marvel at their grandeur from the outside or explore the interior of one of the 3 pyramids which are open to the public.

Next, make your way to Saqqara , home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser , one of the earliest colossal stone buildings. Explore the vast necropolis and admire the intricate hieroglyphs adorning the ancient tombs.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Egypt’s rich history at the Egyptian Museum , home to a remarkable collection of artifacts including the treasures of King Tutankhamun .

After an action-packed day, I recommend taking an evening flight to Hurghada on the Red Sea to make the most of your time!

Day 3: Hurghada

Hurghada is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts located on The Red Sea coast which is famous for its vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

Here you will have a lifetime chance to swim with wild dolphins in their natural habitat. So make sure to book straight into a snorkeling tour to fully experience this incredible spot.

In the afternoon you’re in for a huge contrast as you take an exhilarating ATV trip through the mesmerizing desert landscapes surrounding Hurghada. I hope you’re up for some adrenaline as you ride up, down, and over all the dunes.

Where to Stay in Hurghada

The Oberoi Beach Resort – a 5-star beachfront resort with private and shared pools.

El Gouna Elite Sea View Residence – Suites and apartments with an amazing beachfront location

Moon Beach Suites – Very affordable beachfront apartments with a pool.

Day 4: Transfer to Luxor

Take the morning to relax and soak in the Red Sea’s tranquility . You’ve earned a little relaxing time on this epic vacation and you’ve got plenty more action coming up in this trip!

In the afternoon, get ready for a 4-hour transfer to Luxor , an incredible open-air museum town that is sure to fill your need for more history with its array of ancient treasures and historical sites.

Where to Stay in Luxor

Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor – Regal 5-star resort with an amazing pool

Nefertiti Hotel Luxor – Chic mid-range hotel with an incredible rooftop.

Djorff Palace – Luxury on a budget with a quiet location.

Day 5: West Bank of Luxor

Luxor holds the key to some of Egypt’s most iconic sites and today is a day full of history.

Begin your day by exploring the renowned Valley of the Kings , a vast necropolis home to the tomb of King Tutankhamun . Make sure to take the opportunity to go down into the tomb of Ay which is the only tomb open to the public.

Next, visit the awe-inspiring Hatshepsut Temple which not only has incredible architecture for the time but also offers great views of the surrounding landscape. To top off your day, don’t forget to explore Medinet Habu , a mortuary temple featuring well-preserved reliefs and inscriptions that reveal Egypt’s ancient history.

There’s so much to do in Luxor so if you have more time and are passionate about history, you can of course spread the sights out over a couple of days.

Lastly, if you loved the sound and lights show in Giza, you’ll be happy to know that they do a similar Sound and light Show at Karnak Temple which is absolutely worth a visit.

Day 6: Luxor & Karnak Temple

I hope you got lots of sleep last night because today we need to rise early for a magical hot-air balloon flight over Luxor .

Prepare for a breathtaking view of the city’s temples, monuments, and the mighty Nile River doused in the golden light of sunrise, this is most likely going to be one of your biggest highlights of the trip!

After the flight, explore Karnak Temple , one of the largest temple complexes in the world . Here you can wander through its grand halls, obelisks, and sacred lakes as you uncover the history of this incredible site.

And to top it all off, in the afternoon it’s time to enjoy a relaxing felucca boat ride on the Nile River. The perfect way to unwind and take in the picturesque views of this famous place.

Day 7: Fly to Cairo

If you only have 7 days for your vacation, it’s time to fly to Cairo and then onwards to your home.

This 7-day itinerary really packed a punch, covering all the biggest tourist attractions that are absolutely must-visits for first-timers in Egypt.

That isn’t to say you’ve seen it all though! If you have more than 7 days available, I have some more great stops for you so read on!

Bonus Stops for Up to 13 Day Itinerary

Whether you have 8,9,10 or more days for your trip to Egypt, you can easily adapt the following additional days to suit your needs.

Day 7-10: Aswan

For those of you with a couple of extra days, your adventure continues as you explore more of this fascinating country.

To get to Aswan from Luxor you have a few options . You can either take a bus or private transfer by car which will take around 3.5 hours, or alternatively opt for a multiday cruise which will stop at additional sights like Edfu Temple on the way.

Along the way, you should check out the Edfu Temple , dedicated to the falcon god Horus, showcasing impressive hieroglyphs and grand architecture, and visit the unique Kom Ombo Temple which offers insights into Egyptian religion. This car transfer includes a stop at both on the way from Luxor to Aswan.

Once you arrive, you’ll have plenty more Nubian culture and stunning temples to explore in the south of Egypt which is why you should dedicate 3-4 days to see it all . Your first stop here should be the Abu Simbel Temples, make sure to dedicate the full afternoon (at least).

One of the highlights of your trip will undoubtedly be a visit to the Abu Simbel Temples . Ramesses II built two profoundly captivating temples that were originally carved solely out of a mountainside in order to immortalize himself and his much-beloved wife Nefertari. However, the temples were relocated in 1959 in order to save them from the rising Nile River.

The four 20-meter-high colossal of the Pharaoh himself are dazzling and the inside hall is supported by 8 gigantic Osirid pillars, all 18 meters long. Walking down this hall is an enthralling experience itself!

While in Aswan, there are a few more sites to see around the city itself so don’t miss the Nubian Museum , which delves into the rich history and heritage of the Nubian people, plus the High Dam and the Unfinished Obelisk .

After another action-packed few days, grab a late flight back to Cairo for the final leg!

Where to Stay in Aswan

Sofitel Legend Old Cataract – 5-star hotel on the Nile with incredible facilities.

Kato Dool Wellness Resort – Beautiful and colorful beachfront resort for a unique experience.

Nubian Palace – Fun and budget-friendly hotel in a great location.

Day 11-12: Bahariya Oasis Tour

After a brief overnight in Cairo, it’s time to head back out into the desert! The easiest way to explore the tranquil desert haven of Bahariya Oasis is to take a 2-day desert camp tour .

On the tour, you’ll explore the area’s therapeutic hot and cold springs like the Bir Sigam and Bir el-Gebel springs, and take in the serene landscapes of Gebel al-Ingleez and Gebel Dist, where you can enjoy captivating vistas.

Overnight you will sleep in a luxury tent in the middle of the desert . A unique experience to top off a memorable trip to Egypt for sure!

A visit to the Temple of Alexander the Great will add a historical touch to your desert experience before you head back to Cairo, but not all tours include this so make sure to check before booking if it is important to you.

Day 13: Departure from Cairo

Your incredible Egyptian journey is coming to a close!

If you have an afternoon flight and are looking to squeeze in a little more, consider visiting the Hanging Church and the Saladin Citadel in Cairo, two historical landmarks that will provide a final glimpse into Egypt’s rich heritage.

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Good to know

Faqs - booking egypt flights, what transport options are there from hrg to the city center.

Hurghada (HRG) is approximately 4.3 miles (7 kilometers) from the city center, and the journey time ranges from 12 to 20 minutes. The Bus by HURGHADA is the suggested mode of transportation. It is straightforward to go to Hurghada, in particular, by bus, which may take you directly from the airport. A taxi is the fastest and most affordable method of travel and takes around 12 minutes.

What are family services at Cairo International Airport?

If you are traveling with a child, consider taking them to the children's play area in the domestic and international departures areas. Nursing stations are located at the currency exchange. If you are a breastfeeding mother needing some discretion and assistance, go to the information counter at the airport.

Which is the best airport to fly to in Egypt?

Cairo International Airport is most likely where international passengers flying to Egypt will land. Travelers can take advantage of several valuable amenities, including hotels, dining options, and duty-free stores. The Hotel Novotel Cairo Airport and Le Meridien Cairo Airport are located on the airport's grounds. The Novotel Cairo Airport hotel is close to the airport and five minutes by a complimentary shuttle from the terminals. You can use Egypt Air for the flight to Cairo airport.

What lounges are there at Cairo International Airport?

The first and second floors of Terminal 1's airside are home to the first-class lounge. By paying at the door, using a prepaid lounge card, or enrolling in a membership program, you can visit and access the lounge. Pearl Assist, the first-class lounge, and Ahlein – Premium Lounge are all in Terminal 2, and one can access them with a prepaid lounge pass or lounge membership program. You might have access to the lounges listed below if you are a first- or business-class passenger: Saudia Al-Fursan Golden Lounge in Terminal 2 and the Emirates Lounge. Almeisan Lounge, El Tier Lounge (Domestic),Egyptair Alioth Lounge, Gienah Lounge and Kochab Smoking Lounge are located at Terminal 3.

Can I get an electronic visa for Egypt?

Yes, you can and it’s the most convenient method of obtaining a visa for travel to Egypt. The visa entitles you to multiples entries into the country up to 3 months from date of issuance and you can stay for 30 days. Further information can be found online about processing fees and procedures.

Which airport is closest to the city of Luxor?

Luxor is an ancient city world-famous for its temple complexes in the Upper Egypt region of the country. Hurghada Airport to the northeast is the closest of the major international hubs and from there, you can get a local flight into Luxor Airport (LXR) or you can make the 4h drive by car or other ground transportation.

How can I visit Lake Nasser?

Lake Nasser is an artificial lake that was constructed after the Aswan Dam was built and is regarded as a tourist attraction in the south of Egypt. Hurghada Airport is closest as the most southern of the main Egyptian hubs, however, you can connect from Alexandria, Cairo or Sharm El-Sheikh to Luxor Airport and enjoy a boat ride down the Nile River.

How easy is it to obtain Egyptian pounds at the airport?

All major international airports in Egypt have ample facilities in terms of currency exchange offices as well as automated teller machines to take care of any cash conversions you may need. So, after your flight from the US to Egypt, you can rest assured that you will be able to get some cash to make it to your hotel.

How long is the flight to Egypt?

An average nonstop flight from the United States to Egypt takes 18h 14m, covering a distance of 6491 miles. The most popular route is New York - Cairo with an average flight time of 10h 20m.

What is the cheapest flight to Egypt?

The cheapest ticket to Egypt from the United States found in the last 72 hours was $384 one-way, and $654 round-trip. The most popular route is New York John F Kennedy Intl to Cairo and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $654.

Which airlines fly to Egypt?

Egypt Air flies the most frequently from the United States to Egypt.

What are the most popular destinations in Egypt?

The next most popular destinations are Alexandria (3%) and Hurghada (1%). Searches for flights to Sharm el-Sheikh (1%), to Luxor (0.2%) and to Marsa Alam (0.1%) are also popular.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Egypt

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Consider flying to Borg El Arab International Airport (HBE) if you're headed to the North Coast of Egypt. The airport serves as the leading international entry point for the Nile Delta Region and Alexandria.
If you are flying from Washington, D.C. to Cairo, you can take direct flights from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Cairo International Airport (CAI). Egypt Air is the only airline that offers nonstop flights.
Pets are welcome at Hurghada International Airport (HRG). There are two designated pet relief areas: one for domestic travelers in the arrivals hall and one for international travelers in the departures hall.
Cairo International Airport is a primary hub for Nile Air, Egypt Air, and other airlines. The airport has three terminals, and they are linked by a shuttle. It is the most significant and busiest airport in Egypt. Sun and beach enthusiasts primarily use the airports in Hurghada, Marsa Alam (RMF), and Sharm El Sheikh (SSH).
If you plan to tour the country in Egypt rather than remaining in one particular city, consider booking open-jaw tickets instead of the standard round-trip ticket. Open-jaw tickets will save you time and money, allowing you to get back to Montreal from a different airport other than your arrival airport.
Sharm El-Sheikh Airport (SSH) is the gateway to the Sinai Peninsula where the popular resort town that bears its name is located and if you are interested in uncovering the charms of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba, there is no better starting point for a flight from the US to Egypt.
Choose Cairo International Airport (CAI) for your flight from the US to Egypt to gain entry to the capital city in the north. This will also grant you access to the Suez Canal to the east and the pyramids of the Giza plateau to the west as well as being a springboard to the interior regions of the country west of the River Nile.
The northern coast of Egypt where it abuts the Mediterranean Sea from Sidi Barrani near the Libyan border past Port Said to Al Arish near the border with Israel is covered by Borg El Arab International Airport (ALY), otherwise known as Alexandria Airport. This airport is the main hub for the area, including the Qattara Depression to the west of the city.
Hurghada International Airport (HRG), or Hurghada Airport, is centrally positioned along the east coast of Egypt on the banks of the Red Sea. From here, you can trek across the Eastern Desert towards the Nile River where it passes through the cities of El Minya, Mallawi and Asyut, and cross it into the central region of the White Desert.
The oasis at El Kharga is a major rest point between the Nile River to its left and the bulk of the Western Desert to its right. Normally it takes over 7h to drive from Hurghada to the oasis, but this has been made easier by flying directly into El Kharga Airport (UVL).

Top 5 airlines flying to Egypt

Carly the flight attendant was extremely helpful and very accommodating to passengers on the flight from what I noticed. Couldn't be more satisfied with the service and assistance from Delta's flight attendant, Thanks again Carly!!

I didn’t not like that I could not select my seat and ended up with the worse seat.

I didn’t like that I could not select my seat and was assigned a seat when I checked in at LAX

Delta did an awful job w logistics at DTW. Missed connection. We were there an hour early. SUCKED

Inflight entertainment stopped working as we taxi to runway and never worked again until landing and taxi to gate. Grrrr

Had to run to make it only to have the flight delayed to wait for all the late connectors Second drink service skipped up

Boarding was a sh!t show. JFK BOARDING was awful. The agent called three sections at a time Clogging the area then yelling at people to not block the walk way. How are you going to call delta one , premium select and comfort plus at once and the yell at highest paying passengers. Need to do a lot better and the flight attendants in the galley need to understand that their voices travel. They were talking about others and everyone in the cabin heard them

Uncomfortable seats on 14 hour flight. Mediocre food. On time and great crew.

Please see my lengthy description on MSP to Atlanta survey. Tailbone is killing me from old hard seats. Seat would not recline and were not near exit row. Entertainment did not work properly and couldn’t use. No audio and touch screen failed. 3 plus hours of discomfort in narrower seats than previous flight not in comfort plus. Very dissatisfied and deserve comfort plus charges refunds, at the very least, for both my wife and I. The plane needs to be retired. Please feel free to contact me directly for further details.

MSP to Atlanta was much better than Atlanta to St. Kitts. Paid $180 each for myself and wife for Delta comfort from Atlanta to St. Kitts. Seats were more narrow and obviously old and worn out. Tailbone is killing me. Seat would not recline. Seats behind reclined and we were not an exit row or in front of an exit row. Entertainment did not work in that the movie jumped forward and back and there was no audio. The plug in the arm rest was loose. Flight attendant tried “resetting” the video for my seat but no good. She never checked back. Someone else near me had the same issue. Touch screen was unresponsive. No where near as comfortable as MSP to Atlanta flight. 3 plus hrs. flight time without the basic amenities and not even remotely close to comfortable but paid for Comfort plus. I will be very disappointed if I have the same on my return “Comfort Plus” flight St. Kitts to Atlanta. At the very least my wife and I should be refunded for round trip “Comfort Plus” charges. Please feel free to contact me directly for more details.

Quality of service on board was very inconsistent. FA service primarily seemed robotic and they barely engaged with passengers

I’m unclear why I had to pay extra for assigned seats as Turkish airlines did not honor the seating. We were placed across the aisle from each other on TK 34, and were seated behind one another on TK 694. Because my name was misspelled on e-ticket (Klawiter, instead of Klawitter) I could not log onto website to get the connection gate number in Istanbul. The monitors in the airport were a jumbled mess 1/2 Arabic and 1/2 English.

On line check in needs a lot of improvement. I tried and gave up.

Food not good, flight attendants not the best, not accommodating very ruff

the female flight attendant was racist towards me. I could tell she treated the two other passengers next to me with more softness.

Oh my god! For an13 hour flight they serve you food just one time. Also don’t be thirsty they give you a little small cup of soda to drink. They seem like their goal is to feed you one so they don’t have to be bothered with you. It quite surprise for such a long flight there are several times to eat at least three and the food was well lackluster. The food and lack of offering drinks which were always hot no ice provided.

We were traveling first class. Checkin counter lady and her manager, both were in bad mood and did not treat us well about checking in the handbag. The gate agent took care of it right away. I travel Turkish twice a year in first class. No one has ever refused to check in the hand bag. Not sure, why this agent and her manager refused. Everything else was excellent.

The 787 economy was a disaster for long haul. The space was too little compared to 777 or 747. Also the extremely low tray table behind the seat made any dining effort a nightmare. However, the movies were up to date, and the food taste was good, despite of terrible serving process caused by small space.

A little bit more comfort. It’s tight space around the seats. But all else is great and a smooth flight!

0ur assigned seats were given to other individuals when we boarded the plane. We were given new boarding passes with new seats all the way at the back of the plane. The reason given to us was that there were issues with the seats. We found out that there were no issues, and someone else's were seated on those.

Despite paying business class, the angle seat was uncomfortable. The crew was just ok. The baggage checkin was a mess at JNB.

The seats were broken, crew didn’t really care about service, boarding was not priority for business class, my bags arrived last

Comfortable flight with decent legroom and good seats. The crew were helpful and courteous and managed well with the stressful boarding and the chaos that’s involved. The food was decent, more than expected from a short flight like this. The only reservation I have was that the crew allowed passengers to board With massive amounts of hand luggage which were piled up on the empty seats next to passengers and and it was a risk to all passengers in the case of turbulence or emergency landing. I’ve never seen this ever on any flights I have boarded with many other airlines.

Flight was supposed to take off Saturday at noon. Bumped for unknown reasons until 2 am, then 9 am, then noon, then we don’t know. Not weather related. Dismal and non existent customer service. No 24/7 relations. Couldn’t get my bag back to attempt to get on another flight until 5pm Saturday. Will never take this airline again!

Greater clarity in organizing line-ups for the various boarding groups would have made it easier for all. Due to the many children, the announcements could not be heard clearly enough, so a simplicity in organization would have helped.

I had a great experience with EGYPTAIR. They offered me to check in my handbag which made it very easy since I use a cane. Thank you to EGYPTAIR crew for making sure everyone is receiving the right services.

We have business class seats from Los Angeles to London. The crew is friendly and provided great service. The flight was very comfortable and very smooth. Will use this airlines again in the future.

The flight was delayed numerous times with inconsistent updates and very ambiguous information. When it was finally cancelled the logistics of handing out vouchers and rebooking was extremely chaotic. Meal vouchers were completely inadequate for the airport restaurants, and not even accepted at some. All-in-all, it was a very disappointing experience.

Terrible. The flight from Islamabad to London took 3 hours more then previously planned, I missed my connection to Chicago, and instead had to go New York, spend an extra day before arriving at my final destination. The return leg of the journey was similar. The connection time in Qatar was shrinked to less then an hour unannounced, I had to scramble to barely make it to my flight to Islamabad. Terrible experience, never using British airways again.

The crew on this flight were attentive, efficient and friendly. It really made for an enjoyable flight.

The crew on this flight were excellent. They were friendly and attentive. It really made the flight more enjoyable.

They canceled my flight , they put me on a different flight that was delayed and the connection was lost . They lost my luggage. And now I’m stuck with any of my belongings.

British Airways canceled our plane and gave us a new flight scheduled to leave in only three hours, so we had to drop everything and rush to the airport. The new itinerary only left us a one hour layover in Madrid, which was too short because the plane landed late and so we missed our connecting flight. We were then booked onto a flight scheduled to take off 8 hours later, and were not given any compensation or remedial measures.

Seat layout, flight/club attendant service, food variety and quality could have been better. Business class Standard is visibly low compared with 6 other airlines that we have traveled for the past two years.

Despite many attempts to work out a change, neither British Airways nor Kayak nor Chatdeal would allow us to cancel or change this flight so we lost all of the payments when we were not able to fly. Absolutely terrible customer service. We will never use either of the services again.

It said that there was wifi. During the flight there was no wifi and while waiting at the gate the phone services already got cut off so I wasn’t able to say I am taxiing from the gate to my husband. This left me with an uncomfortable feeling. So I was waiting on the WiFi connection during flight and that never happened.

Good. But there food was poor quality and 95% of movies didn't have English subtitles

I thought they had rebranded themselves in every aspect but it was quite the opposite. The food was terrible the service was sub-par. Overall it was not a good experience.

Service from staff was poor, food choices were limited. Air plane was not clean or hygienic and seemed like not cleaned for days. Seats were uncomfortable.

service from stAff was barely there , food choices were limited. AirPlane was not clean and seemed like it was not cleaned for days.. Seats were very uncomfortable.

I paid for premium seats and the last minute they changed the aircraft for a bigger one, they bumped me to another seat which was NOT at all comfortable for an 11 hour flight, will fight for a refund!!

The landing was catastrophic. I was very scared. I thought it were my last lminues. Pilotes should be more experienced

ALL services were good. An announcement should’ve been made at the end of the flight that filling out a customs form would not be necessary anymore for USA travelers entering Philadelphia.

The flight was smooth, the premier economy seats were comfortable, the flight crew were excellent. The on board food, however, was AWFUL. I suggest bringing your own food on board.

The flight was smooth, our premier economy seats were comfortable, the flight crew were especially fine - attentive, cheerful. The food, however was AWFUL. I advise bringing your own on board.

The service on board should have been better fast service

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Wealth of Geeks

The Best 24 Things To Do in Egypt

Posted: March 4, 2024 | Last updated: March 4, 2024

<p>As one of the first civilizations, Egypt has a rich history and a unique culture. This North African country has everything from the architecture that leaves people in awe centuries after the buildings were designed to the artifacts of ancient pharaohs. Today, we will walk you through a multitude of places and various adventures you can embark on when you decide Egypt is the next destination you’ll be visiting.</p>

As one of the first civilizations, Egypt has a rich history and a unique culture. This North African country has everything from the architecture that leaves people in awe centuries after the buildings were designed to the artifacts of ancient pharaohs. Today, we will walk you through a multitude of places and various adventures you can embark on when you decide Egypt is the next destination you’ll be visiting.

<p>Built during the era of the Old Kingdom, these three famous pyramids are more than 4000 years old. <a href="https://www.pyramid-of-giza.com/about-pyramids-of-giza/">The Great Pyramid of Giza</a> is one of the seven wonders of the world and one of the most visited places in the world. The question of how the pyramids were built remains a mystery to this day, despite the archeologist’s best efforts to figure it out!</p>

1. Admire the Giza Pyramids

Built during the era of the Old Kingdom, these three famous pyramids are more than 4000 years old. The Great Pyramid of Giza is one of the seven wonders of the world and one of the most visited places in the world. The question of how the pyramids were built remains a mystery to this day, despite the archeologist’s best efforts to figure it out!

<p>Located in Luxor, this temple was built to honor the first female pharaoh of Kemet. Archeologists are always discovering relics in the tombs beneath them, a testament to the power and rich culture of the Ancient rulers. Decorated with many reliefs depicting Hatshepsut’s reign, the temple built into a cliff contains a sanctuary dedicated to Amun-Ra, the Egyptian god of the Sun.</p>

2. Marvel at the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut

Located in Luxor, this temple was built to honor the first female pharaoh of Kemet. Archeologists are always discovering relics in the tombs beneath them, a testament to the power and rich culture of the Ancient rulers. Decorated with many reliefs depicting Hatshepsut’s reign, the temple built into a cliff contains a sanctuary dedicated to Amun-Ra, the Egyptian god of the Sun.

<p>This mosque was built as a harmonious mix of different architectural styles, and it is a place you can’t leave out of your itinerary. Along with separate floors for men and women, it has a library on the upper floor. It’s well accustomed to tourists, with two English and French-speaking imams.</p>

3. Visit Al Sahaba Mosque, Sharm el Sheikh

This mosque was built as a harmonious mix of different architectural styles, and it is a place you can’t leave out of your itinerary. Along with separate floors for men and women, it has a library on the upper floor. It’s well accustomed to tourists, with two English and French-speaking imams.

<p>It’s a historic site built by Ramses II to celebrate him in a god-like manner after his death. The most prominent part of the building is the four statues, which are 65-feet tall. The temple is located on the Second Cataract of the Nile.</p>

4. See Abu Simbel, Aswan

It’s a historic site built by Ramses II to celebrate him in a god-like manner after his death. The most prominent part of the building is the four statues, which are 65-feet tall. The temple is located on the Second Cataract of the Nile.

<p>Karnak boasts a reputation as one of Egypt’s most iconic places. It’s the second biggest temple in the world, after Angkor Wat in Cambodia. We would especially single out the Hypostyle Hall.</p>

5. Explore the Karnak Temple, Luxor

Karnak boasts a reputation as one of Egypt’s most iconic places. It’s the second biggest temple in the world, after Angkor Wat in Cambodia. We would especially single out the Hypostyle Hall.

<p>If you want to see a mix of Roman, Greek, and Egyptian heritage, you should head to the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa. Pay attention to the Rotunda, a hall decorated with unique geometric shapes, mostly covered in an iconic shade of red. </p>

6. Enter the Catacombs at Alexandria

If you want to see a mix of Roman, Greek, and Egyptian heritage, you should head to the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa. Pay attention to the Rotunda, a hall decorated with unique geometric shapes, mostly covered in an iconic shade of red.

<p>As Egypt has one of the richest cultures in the world, it’s only fitting that the biggest archeological museum can be found in its cultural capital. Don’t miss out on the Tutankhamun Immersive Exhibition that the museum offers, as this audiovisual experience will walk you through more than 3000 years of history. </p>

7. Pay a Visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum, Giza

As Egypt has one of the richest cultures in the world, it’s only fitting that the biggest archeological museum can be found in its cultural capital. Don’t miss out on the Tutankhamun Immersive Exhibition that the museum offers, as this audiovisual experience will walk you through more than 3000 years of history.

<p>This temple is believed to be the place where ancient goddess, Isis, found the heart of Osiris, so it’s dedicated to them and their son, Horus. Philae sits on Agilika Island, and it’s undoubtedly one of the most peaceful and beautiful places where you can spend your time.</p>

8. Take a Trip to the Philae Temple, Aswan

This temple is believed to be the place where ancient goddess, Isis, found the heart of Osiris, so it’s dedicated to them and their son, Horus. Philae sits on Agilika Island, and it’s undoubtedly one of the most peaceful and beautiful places where you can spend your time.

<p>Also known as the Monastery of Saint Simon, the church lies in the heart of the hill. The hills are behind the Zabbaleen village, a place traditionally inhabited by garbage collectors, hence the name. The unique location only contributes to the special atmosphere created in this Christian environment. </p>

9. Check Out the Cave Church, Garbage City

Also known as the Monastery of Saint Simon, the church lies in the heart of the hill. The hills are behind the Zabbaleen village, a place traditionally inhabited by garbage collectors, hence the name. The unique location only contributes to the special atmosphere created in this Christian environment.

<p>Previously part of the ancient and historically significant city of Thebes, it was used as a burial place beginning with Thutmose I. In accordance with Egyptian customs, the tombs are stacked with treasure or other goods they believed their rulers might need in their next lives. </p>

10. Stroll Through Valley of the Kings, Luxor

Previously part of the ancient and historically significant city of Thebes, it was used as a burial place beginning with Thutmose I. In accordance with Egyptian customs, the tombs are stacked with treasure or other goods they believed their rulers might need in their next lives.

<p>This magnificent building served as the Egyptian government’s seat until the July Revolution of 1952 and has since been turned into a museum. It comprises four museums: The Silver Museum, the Arms Museum, the Presidential Gifts Museum, and the Royal Family Museum. </p>

11. Admire the Abdeen Palace, Cairo

This magnificent building served as the Egyptian government’s seat until the July Revolution of 1952 and has since been turned into a museum. It comprises four museums: The Silver Museum, the Arms Museum, the Presidential Gifts Museum, and the Royal Family Museum.

<p>In case you’re looking to take a break from the bustling cities and dedicate a day or more to your wellness, we found just the place for you. The biggest of these lakes is called Zeitoun, and they are known to have incredible healing properties. Whether you’re dealing with a lot of stress, suffering from rheumatism, or dealing with skin problems, this is your perfect solution. </p>

12. Relax at the Siwa Salt Lakes

In case you’re looking to take a break from the bustling cities and dedicate a day or more to your wellness, we found just the place for you. The biggest of these lakes is called Zeitoun, and they are known to have incredible healing properties. Whether you’re dealing with a lot of stress, suffering from rheumatism, or dealing with skin problems, this is your perfect solution.

<p>You simply cannot visit Egypt without experiencing the country from the biggest river in the world. It’s a one-of-a-kind way to visit a lot of important landmarks, as the country has historically been built around the river. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of different options you can pick from for your cruise itinerary for all budgets and all traveling purposes. </p>

13. Go on a Cruise Over the Nile, Aswan

You simply cannot visit Egypt without experiencing the country from the biggest river in the world. It’s a one-of-a-kind way to visit a lot of important landmarks, as the country has historically been built around the river. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of different options you can pick from for your cruise itinerary for all budgets and all traveling purposes.

<p>This is one of the top attractions in Hurghada, located in the center of the old town. It’s right by the sea, giving the visitors an unforgettable panoramic view.</p>

14. Enter El Mina Mosque, Hurghada

This is one of the top attractions in Hurghada, located in the center of the old town. It’s right by the sea, giving the visitors an unforgettable panoramic view.

<p>Situated in the Siwa oasis, these mountains got their name due to the amount of tombs that can be found there. The most famous one is Si-Amun’s. The exteriors might be deceiving, but the inside of the tombs are usually painted with extreme detail, especially on grounds like Gebel Al-Mawta. </p>

15. Visit Mountain of the Dead, Siwa

Situated in the Siwa oasis, these mountains got their name due to the amount of tombs that can be found there. The most famous one is Si-Amun’s. The exteriors might be deceiving, but the inside of the tombs are usually painted with extreme detail, especially on grounds like Gebel Al-Mawta.

<p>Now stepping away from the historical into the modern, we wanted to introduce you to this charming cafe. Transporting you into the world of Aladdin, it’s a place always worth visiting. Your pictures will turn out beautifully, and you will marvel at the creativity and aesthetic choices that make this restaurant what it is.</p>

16. Try Out the Farsha Cafe, Sharm El Sheikh

Now stepping away from the historical into the modern, we wanted to introduce you to this charming cafe. Transporting you into the world of Aladdin, it’s a place always worth visiting. Your pictures will turn out beautifully, and you will marvel at the creativity and aesthetic choices that make this restaurant what it is.

<p>This mountain is a holy place for Abrahamic religions as it is, according to biblical teaching, where the prophet Moses received the Ten Commandments. A sunrise hike is the best way to enjoy this landmark to the fullest. The summit has two main paths: Steps of Repentance and the Camel’s path. </p>

17. Hike on Mount Sinai, Sinai

This mountain is a holy place for Abrahamic religions as it is, according to biblical teaching, where the prophet Moses received the Ten Commandments. A sunrise hike is the best way to enjoy this landmark to the fullest. The summit has two main paths: Steps of Repentance and the Camel’s path.

<p>A true hidden gem, this National Park is famous for its chalk and limestone formations. Famous formations to look out for during your visit include Twin Peaks, Mushroom Rock, and Crystal Mountain.</p>

18. Walk Around the White Desert National Park

A true hidden gem, this National Park is famous for its chalk and limestone formations. Famous formations to look out for during your visit include Twin Peaks, Mushroom Rock, and Crystal Mountain.

<p>One of the Red Sea’s best diving spots, the Blue Hole attracts loads of tourists annually. The colorful reef, along with the rich wildlife, makes this an experience people never forget. </p>

19. Dive Deep Into the Blue Hole, Dahab

One of the Red Sea’s best diving spots, the Blue Hole attracts loads of tourists annually. The colorful reef, along with the rich wildlife, makes this an experience people never forget.

<p>Cairo’s central bazaar has long been a place of economic and cultural significance. Established in the 14th century, it’s ideal for buying authentic jewelry, souvenirs, or clothes from local merchants and salesmen. You must include it in your tour of <a href="https://wealthofgeeks.com/things-to-do-in-cairo-egypt/">Cairo</a>, as the Al Hussein mosque and Al-Azhar University are nearby.</p>

20. Treat Yourself at the Khan el-Khalili

Cairo’s central bazaar has long been a place of economic and cultural significance. Established in the 14th century, it’s ideal for buying authentic jewelry, souvenirs, or clothes from local merchants and salesmen. You must include it in your tour of Cairo , as the Al Hussein mosque and Al-Azhar University are nearby.

<p>A UNESCO world heritage site, this is the oldest Christian monastery in the world. You can arrive in Sharm El Sheikh by taxi or public transport from Cairo. A fun fact about this landmark, which many may not know, is that this is where the “Well of Moses” is located, the place where Moses supposedly met his future wife, Zipporah.</p>

21. Admire the St Catherine Monastery, Sinai

A UNESCO world heritage site, this is the oldest Christian monastery in the world. You can arrive in Sharm El Sheikh by taxi or public transport from Cairo. A fun fact about this landmark, which many may not know, is that this is where the “Well of Moses” is located, the place where Moses supposedly met his future wife, Zipporah.

<p>About 10 miles from Marsa Matruh, you must visit for its crystal clear water. It has a stunning statue of Cleopatra, as it was believed these were the waters where the beautiful queen preferred to have her baths. </p>

22. Swim at Cleopatra’s Beach

About 10 miles from Marsa Matruh, you must visit for its crystal clear water. It has a stunning statue of Cleopatra, as it was believed these were the waters where the beautiful queen preferred to have her baths.

<p>The tomb dedicated to the most beautiful of Ramses II’s wives reflects the magnificence Nefertari once held. It’s in the Valley of the Queens, and it’s hailed as the Sistine Chapel of Ancient Egypt. In our opinion, it’s a site definitely worth your time!</p>

23. Discover the Tomb of Nefertari

The tomb dedicated to the most beautiful of Ramses II’s wives reflects the magnificence Nefertari once held. It’s in the Valley of the Queens, and it’s hailed as the Sistine Chapel of Ancient Egypt. In our opinion, it’s a site definitely worth your time!

<p>Containing the largest collection of Coptic Christian artifacts in the world, it has attracted the attention of various scholars and tourists since its opening. It lies behind the walls of the Roman fortress Babylon, and it houses stunning art collections as well!</p><p>Egypt is a destination we strongly believe everyone should visit at some point in their lives. We hope we were able to demystify the land of the Red Sea and inspire you to come here. Thousands of years of royalty, tradition, and culture have accumulated here to make a unique country that offers unforgettable experiences to everyone who visits. </p>

24. Immerse Yourself in the Culture at the Coptic Museum

Containing the largest collection of Coptic Christian artifacts in the world, it has attracted the attention of various scholars and tourists since its opening. It lies behind the walls of the Roman fortress Babylon, and it houses stunning art collections as well!

Egypt is a destination we strongly believe everyone should visit at some point in their lives. We hope we were able to demystify the land of the Red Sea and inspire you to come here. Thousands of years of royalty, tradition, and culture have accumulated here to make a unique country that offers unforgettable experiences to everyone who visits.

<p>Discussions about places to visit in Montenegro tend to begin with Kotor, and it is easy to see why. Kotor packs plenty into its relatively small borders, with a proud maritime history allied to modern cafes, restaurants, and bars, plus some of the most alluring churches in this part of the world. Stop for a romantic courtyard lunch at Pržun before taking the arduous walk up to the fortress walls, where the ultimate view of the Bay of Kotor awaits.</p>

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Egypt continues to ramp up its commitment to tourism.

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Egypt bursts at the seams with historical artifacts.

Famous for being the cradle of civilization, Egypt bursts at the seams with historical artifacts. Ancient Egyptian civilization has shined through millennia with iconic figures, and it has also played an important cultural and political role in the Graeco-Roman world.

Egypt boasts an array of fascinating sites.

Today’s Egypt is a sight to behold. Literally. Egypt boasts seven UNESCO World Heritage sites and a plethora of jaw-dropping historical destinations. Perhaps foremost on most tourists’ minds is exploring Cairo’s magnificent Pyramids of Giza and the iconic Great Sphinx or the legendary Luxor Temple. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the white sandy beaches and pristine coral reefs of the Red Sea. No matter your tastes, Egypt’s offerings cater to every traveller.

Outdoor enthusiasts can discover plenty of activities.

For many travelers the immersive experience trumps the actual destination in terms of priorities. As such, tourists are flocking to the land of pharaohs, pyramids and the lush River Nile delta. Cairo and Alexandria offer such urban experiences as personalized river cruises and unique desert adventures. Also, some of the world’s best snorkeling and scuba diving sites can be experienced in the Red Sea. Its weather and diverse landscapes make it a prime destination for enjoying outdoor activities such as golfing near the pyramids. Hikers can discover several outstanding locations around Egypt that are ideally suited for unique challenges. Or imagine sliding down a hill in the desert on a sandboard or camel riding around the Giza Plateau.

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In November 2022, the ministry launched the National Tourism Strategy in Egypt aiming to reach 30 million tourists by 2028 through focusing on three pillars:

1) Achieving a threefold increase in flight seats capacity from its 2021 level to meet the demand on flights. The number of incoming flight seats to Egypt had increased in 2023 by more than 35% compared to 2022.

2) Enhancing the tourist experience in archaeological sites and museums as well as upgrading the services provided in hotels.

3) Enhancing investment environment and a threefold increase in rooms capacity and entertainment facilities as well as designing master plans for destinations. From December 2022 to December 2023, a historic surge in hotel room numbers was achieved with the addition of 14,209 new rooms.

Egypt is actively promoting its many tourist attractions.

According to Ahmed Issa, Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, the ministry has developed proactive policies to enhance the supply-side components in the Egyptian tourism destination, instead of focusing on stimulating demand for Egyptian tourism products, and shaping relationships with the local and international private sector, instilling confidence and working on empowering this sector. He says, “More facilities were provided to obtain an entering visa to Egypt from several countries as well as expanding the range of methods to promote Egyptian tourist destinations, particularly by revising marketing strategies to emphasize collaboration with local and international industry partners, tour operators, and airlines.”

The implementation of this strategy and policies has showed its success as inbound tourism to Egypt hit a record-breaking 14.9 million tourists in 2023, including 3.6 million tourists visiting the country in the fourth quarter of the year.

Investments have been made restoring archaeological sites.

Over the years a number of significant investments have been made in popular Egyptian tourist spots, including restoring and developing archaeological sites and opening new museums. Among the highlights are the Graeco-Roman Museum reopening in Alexandria, the restoration of the Great Hypostyle Hall in the Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings and the new Grand Egyptian Museum opening in early 2024 near Cairo. In addition, new hotels have spring up across the country resulting in an improved overall tourist experience.

Safety, of course, is always on the minds of travelers. Issa says, “The vast majority of Egypt’s tourist destinations are located hundreds of kilometers from any potential conflict zones. We want to assure all prospective travelers that Egypt remains a safe and welcoming destination, offering unparalleled experiences and cultural treasures. Our resorts and attractions are operating as usual, and we are always vigilant in safeguarding the safety of our visitors.”

Egypt’s commitment to sustainability is an ongoing process. Solar Power stations have been set up at five world heritage sites and museums in Egypt. The Grand Egyptian Museum was awarded in February 2024, the Internatioanl EDCE Advance Certificate for Advanced Green Buildings, making it the first green museum in Africa and the Middle East. Environmentally friendly hop-on-hop-off buses are set to launch in Giza Plateau, improving accessibility and sustainability for tourists, thus enhancing their overall experience in Egypt. Issa adds, “We have implemented new measures to decrease the carbon footprint of the industry. Our aim is to further develop these initiatives to provide tourists with an environmentally sustainable experience.”

Over the last seven years, Egypt has spent 22% of its GDP to enhance the visitor experience, including the restoration of archaeological wonders like the Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings. Highlights also include the reopening of iconic museums like the Graeco-Roman Museum in Alexandria and the forthcoming launch of the Grand Egyptian Museum just outside of Cairo. Also, following the introduction of a five-year multiple-entry visa to Egypt last summer, travel to the country is now more accessible for international visitors. This visa allows tourists to stay in the country for up to 90 days at a time and provides opportunities for multiple trips without having to reapply for five years.

As of January, 2024, the U.S. ranks 8th among Egypt’s top visitor nations, increasing in tourism from 9th in 2023 with half a million visitors. Also, U.S. travelers opt for extensive stays averaging more than 15 nights, during which they typically spend their time exploring historical destinations such as Cairo, the Nile and Mount Sainai. Thanks to direct flights from D.C. and New York City, as well as many convenient flight connection options, Egypt can now be reached more quickly and cost-effectively than ever before.

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