Planning a trip to Egypt can be an exciting endeavor. With its ancient wonders and rich history, Egypt offers a unique travel experience. Whether you're drawn to the majestic pyramids, the serene Nile River, or the bustling city of Cairo, this guide will help you navigate the planning process and make the most of your adventure.
The iconic Pyramids of Giza
Should You Go to Egypt?
Deciding whether to visit Egypt is a personal choice. Following the 2011 revolution, tourism experienced a significant drop. However, by 2018, tourism was on the rise again, with prices still relatively low and the main attractions less crowded. This made it an opportune time for travelers seeking both value and a less congested experience.
Tour Companies vs. Independent Travel
One of the first decisions to make is whether to travel with a tour company or independently. While some travelers prefer the freedom of independent travel, others find the logistics of Egypt challenging.
Tour companies can provide structure and security, especially for female travelers. However, they often come with fixed itineraries and higher costs. Ultimately, the best approach may be a semi-independent one, where you book your flights and hotels while utilizing local tour guides for specific sites and activities.
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TIP: Do your homework on tour companies if you plan to use one. They are not all created equal. Find out what’s included and what’s not. Get it in writing.
Choosing a Tour Company: Your Egypt Tours
If you decide to use a tour company, research is crucial. Companies based in the US tend to be more expensive than those based in Europe or Egypt. A recommended tour operator is Your Egypt Tours, known for its excellent service and flexibility. They offer customized private tours with knowledgeable Egyptologist guides. Any time we asked about a change we were told, “it’s your tour, we can do whatever you want.”
The cost felt very reasonable (at the time, about $50 per day, per person), especially since the tour was 100% customized and private. The cost included the guide, a driver and van, airport transfers (4 in Cairo, 2 in Luxor), and most admission fees.
Our Cairo Guide Mamdouh, seeing the newly opened Tomb of Mehu for the first time.
Crafting Your Itinerary: Cairo and Luxor
Deciding on an itinerary is a crucial step. Popular destinations include Cairo, Luxor, Alexandria, and the Red Sea. A major consideration is whether to take a Nile cruise.
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Nile cruises typically sail between Luxor and Aswan and last from 3 to 7 days. However, if time is limited, splitting your time between Cairo and Luxor can be a great alternative.
Final Itinerary For 8 Days in Cairo and Luxor
Here is an example of a well-paced itinerary:
- Sunday: Arrive in Cairo, check into the hotel.
- Monday: Tour the oldest pyramids of Saqqara, Dashur, and the Colossus of Memphis.
- Tuesday: Visit the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, followed by a tour of "Coptic Cairo" including the Hanging Church, Monastery and Church of Saint George, Abu Serga, and Ben Ezra Synagogue. Afternoon flight to Luxor.
- Wednesday: Explore Karnak and Luxor Temple, followed by a walk through a local food market.
- Thursday: Visit the Valley of the Kings (including King Tut’s Tomb), Colossi of Memnon, and Temple of Hatshepsut. Visit the Howard Carter house.
- Friday: Morning flight back to Cairo. Tour the old Egyptian Museum on Tahir Square.
- Saturday: Explore Islamic Cairo, including the Fatimid area, Cairo’s three ramparts/gates, the Al-Azhar Mosque, the Mosque of Al-Hakim, and Gayer Anderson House. Evening food walking tour.
- Sunday: Visit the Mosque and Madrassa of Sultan Hassan and the Alabaster Mosque at the Citadel of Salah el-Din.
Great Pyramids of Giza 🇪🇬 Ancient Egypt for Kids 📚 Educational Videos For Kids
Flights to Egypt
Booking flights involves considering factors such as cost, comfort, and layover times. Look for ways to use points and miles to save money. Premium Economy can be worth it for long flights, offering extra space and upgraded service.
TIP: Look for ways to use points and miles to save money.
Our flights on Egypt Air in economy class to and from Luxor were fine and took a little more than an hour. We got held up in security on the way back to Cairo because they needed a female agent to check female passengers going through secondary security to get onto the plane.
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Accommodation: Cairo and Luxor
Choosing the right accommodation is essential for a comfortable trip. In Cairo, consider staying near the pyramids in Giza for the iconic view or in Central Cairo near Tahrir Square for easy access to the Egyptian Museum and other attractions. Luxor offers a choice between the East Bank, with its hotels and temples, and the West Bank, closer to the Valley of the Kings.
Here's a table summarizing accommodation options in Cairo and Luxor:
| City | Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cairo | Giza (near pyramids) | Pyramid views, proximity to new Egyptian Museum | Further from central Cairo |
| Cairo | Central Cairo (Tahrir Square) | Close to old Egyptian Museum, central location | Traffic congestion |
| Luxor | East Bank | Hotels, restaurants, temples | Further from Valley of the Kings |
| Luxor | West Bank | Closer to Valley of the Kings | Fewer amenities |
Luxor Temple by night
Essential Travel Tips
- Trip Research: The Trip Advisor forum can be a valuable resource for up-to-date information and answers to common questions.
- Cell Phones and Internet: Check with your mobile provider for international coverage options. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for more affordable data.
- Currency Exchange: Obtain Egyptian Pounds from an ATM at the Cairo airport or a bank ATM in Luxor. Be cautious of scam ATMs.
- Guidebook: Invest in a good guidebook for detailed information and maps.
Egypt is waiting to be explored, offering a blend of ancient history, cultural richness, and modern vibrancy. With careful planning and the right resources, your trip to Egypt will be an unforgettable experience.
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