Nile Family Adventure
This concise Egyptian tour is ideal for families and children seeking an engaging adventure. It encompasses a visit to the renowned Pyramids and Sphinx, an exploration of the expansive Egyptian Museum, as well as ancient Pharaonic temples and tombs. Additionally, you can enjoy some active experiences like an entertaining camel ride and a cruise on a traditional felucca sailboat. Our expert guides are well-versed in guiding families with children, and we maintain small group sizes to ensure you make the most of what we’re confident will be a memorable vacation.
Our journey commences in Cairo, where we explore the iconic Pyramids and Sphinx. Subsequently, we immerse ourselves in the vast Egyptian Museum, with a special focus on the famous Tutankhamun exhibition and intriguing mummy exhibits. Leaving Cairo, we board a sleeper train for an overnight trip along the Nile to the charming town of Aswan. There, we visit the island temple of Philae, interact with local schoolchildren, and savor a traditional Nubian meal. Our next adventure unfolds aboard a traditional felucca sailboat as we leisurely cruise along the Nile, observing local life as we pass by. Upon reaching Luxor, we delve into the crypts with a visit to the pharaonic tombs in the Valley of the Kings. We also marvel at the impressive Temple of Karnak before returning to Cairo via the overnight sleeper train. To conclude our remarkable Egyptian journey, we explore Cairo, including the sprawling Khan-el-Kalili bazaar, before heading back to the airport for your return flight.
- 4 & 5-star hotels & resorts accommodation
- Meal plan as mentioned in the itinerary.
- A 24-hour airport arrival and departure transfer service
- All transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- The expertise of local Egyptologist guides for all sightseeing excursions
- 2 nights aboard a sleeper train from Cairo to Aswan and Luxor to Cairo (flight & hotel upgrade available)
- Tipping Kitty (approx US$45)
- Entrance fees to all mentioned sites.
- International flights (available upon inquiry)
- Egypt visa fees (available upon arrival for most nationalities, US$25)
- Travel insurance.
- Meals not mentioned in the inclusions.
- Any personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, etc
- Hotel gala dinners on 24 and/or 31 Dec (budget up to $180 p/p)
- Any other service / items not listed above.
- Sleeping bag for the felucca (recommended Nov-Feb)
CairoPyramidsSphinxEgyptian MuseumCamel RideNile felucca cruiseAswanPhilae TempleSchoolLuxorLuxor templesKarnak TempleValley of the KingsQueen HatchepsutKhan El Khalili BazaarToday, you take your first steps towards a new adventure… Board your flight to Cairo International Airport where we will be waiting for you just before customs for any assistance needed before we transfer you to your chosen hotel to settle in and relax.
Overnight : Cairo Hotel
No Meals
Our day commences with a visit to the awe-inspiring Pyramids & Sphinx in Giza, a renowned wonder of the ancient world. While at the Pyramids, we enjoy a brief camel ride, which not only provides entertainment for the entire family but also offers an excellent opportunity for photos. Subsequently, we travel into the heart of Cairo to explore the Egyptian Museum, housing a vast collection of historical artifacts, mummies, and, of course, the world-renowned Tutankhamun exhibit, featuring the iconic golden funerary mask. Later in the evening, we board the overnight sleeper train to Aswan (approximately 12 hours, with private twin cabins).
OVERNIGHT: On board train
MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner
EXTRAS: Cairo to Aswan flight upgrade
We reach Aswan in the late morning. The setting along the River Nile in Aswan is truly picturesque. Our day begins with a boat tour to the exquisite island temple of Philae. This stunning temple was relocated due to the construction of Lake Nasser. If our visit aligns with the school term, we’ll make a stop at a local school, where we can participate in a casual and enjoyable English/Arabic language class. We make an effort to arrange this with children of a similar age to those in your group. Furthermore, there’s an opportunity to savor a traditional Nubian meal later in the day.
OVERNIGHT: Aswan hotel
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch
EXTRAS: None
This morning, you have the option to visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Abu Simbel, home to the temples built by Ramses II. We depart early to witness the sunrise over these remarkable temples. If you choose not to visit Abu Simbel, your morning is free.
At lunchtime, we embark on our traditional Nile felucca for an afternoon sail down the Nile. Sailing on a felucca is a delightful way to experience Egypt, offering a glimpse of local rural life along the riverbanks. Our skilled Nubian crew will handle the boat, provide entertainment, and prepare meals for you. Throughout the day, our separate facilities boat will join us, equipped with clean toilets, showers, and a hygienic kitchen. Tonight, you’ll sleep on the deck of the felucca, with mattresses, blankets, and mosquito nets provided. While this is a fun and basic experience, we offer an optional upgrade for those seeking more comfort to spend the night back at the Aswan hotel, rejoining the group the following morning.
OVERNIGHT: On board felucca
MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS: Abu Simbel overland / Upgrade from felucca to hotel in Aswan
Following breakfast, we extend our time sailing down the Nile, relishing the tranquil and picturesque landscape as it unfolds around us. We then proceed to Luxor, where we settle into our hotel, conveniently located by the Nile. The remainder of the afternoon is at your leisure, allowing you to unwind at the hotel or venture out into Luxor to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this captivating town.
OVERNIGHT: Luxor hotel
MEALS: Breakfast
EXTRAS: None
In the early hours of the morning, you have the option to embark on a hot air balloon flight to witness the sunrise on the west bank of the Nile. Our sightseeing for the day focuses on the West bank of the Nile, where we descend into the ancient Pharaonic tombs in the Valley of the Kings and explore the exceptional temple dedicated to Queen Hatchepsut, delving into her fascinating story. The afternoon is left for your relaxation at the hotel or, if you desire, further exploration of Luxor town. You might consider another felucca excursion on the Nile to Banana Island or a visit to the intriguing Mummification museum.
OVERNIGHT: Luxor hotel
MEALS: Breakfast
EXTRAS: Hot air balloon in Luxor
This morning, we explore one of Egypt’s largest and most remarkable sites, the Karnak Temple. It boasts expansive temples, elegant obelisks, towering statues, and numerous columned halls. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure in Luxor before we make our way to the station to board the overnight sleeper train back to Cairo (approximately 9 hours). If you prefer, there is an option to upgrade either or both train journeys to internal flights.
OVERNIGHT: On board train
MEALS: Breakfast
EXTRAS: None
Upon our return to Cairo, we embark on a brief excursion to discover the city’s cultural attractions. We visit the historical mosque and museum located within the Citadel, where you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Afterward, we explore the labyrinthine Khan-el-Khalili bazaar, where you may have the opportunity to engage in some bargaining and souvenir shopping. We’ll also make a pitstop at a traditional Koshari eatery for a delightful lunch. In the evening, we conclude our journey with a delicious farewell dinner, bidding adieu to your local guide and fellow companions.
OVERNIGHT: Cairo hotel
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
EXTRAS: None
Today, you have the freedom to explore at your own pace until it’s time for your departure transfer to the airport. If you wish to extend your tour, options include enjoying additional time at the Red Sea, embarking on day trips to Alexandria, or visiting the esteemed World Heritage Site of Wadi Rayan and the Valley of the Whales.
Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino
Originally constructed as a visitor’s palace, Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino has provided guests the royal treatment for decades. Modern guestrooms offer luxury bedding, free Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service. Many have balconies with garden, city or Nile views. Luxury hotel suites feature generous layouts, kitchenettes and fireplaces. perks like free breakfast, afternoon tea and dessert. Enjoy on-site amenities including a 24-hour gym, outdoor lap pool, a spa and an elegant casino. Several of our 14 dining options are set in our lush gardens. Wedding and conference planners appreciate our hotel’s versatile and unique event venues and proximity to some of the world’s most famous sites, including the Pyramids, Sphinx and Cairo Tower. Be transported to the Egypt of 1869 when you step into the lobby of our 5-star luxury hotel in downtown Cairo. Visit Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino, where you’ll be treated like royalty.
MS/ Iberotel Crowne Emperor
The Iberotel Crown Emperor is the second largest ship in the Travcotel fleet. This impressive Five-star Deluxe Nile cruise liner carries travellers in supreme comfort, grace and style creating an atmosphere where your every wish is fulfilled. The ship’s, professional, friendly and experienced staff and crew deliver a personalized service that is second to none.
Split over five-deck levels, this majestic vessel offers the perfect environment in which you can comfortably relax and soak up the real Egyptian atmosphere. Enjoy a head-to-toe relaxation massage, top-up the tan on the enormous Sun deck or enjoy the nightly festivals of great fun and excellent food. You can still experience the ancient wonders of Pharaonic Egypt with stop-overs and optional visits to some of the most perfectly preserved temples and monuments in Luxor and Aswan.
Mamlouk Palace Resort
Experience authentic Egyptian hospitality and a stunning oriental flair at Mamlouk Palace Resort with its special family friendly atmosphere and hotel facilities. The private sandy beach offers relaxing hours directly in front of the beautiful water of the Red Sea. Relish the art of noble treatment and atmosphere at Mamlouk Palace Resort.
Located 19km (20 min) to Hurghada Centre and 15km (16 min) to Hurghada International Airport, the Resort features a distinctive location.
Facilities (Private Beach -Restaurants -Bars – 24h Room Service –
Swimming Pool -Spa – Kids Club – Wifi – Special Needs Rooms)
SUNRISE Holidays Resort (Adults Only)
SUNRISE Holidays Resort, the first Adults-Only Resort in Egypt, is situated on a private beach lagoon that enriches the rejuvenating holiday vacation with its idyllic sea view.
Located 500m (10 min) to Hurghada Centre and 9km (14 min) to Hurghada International Airport, the Resort offers the best of both worlds: enjoying a relaxing and revitalizing atmosphere as well as experiencing the exciting nightlife of Hurghada.
Sheraton Montazah Hotel
Sheraton Montazah Hotel welcomes you to Alexandria, Egypt with thoughtful service and an unparalleled location. Situated by the beach, our hotel is walking distance from Montazah Palace and Gardens; stroll the scenic Corniche or visit cultural attractions including the Royal Jewelry Museum. Gracefully designed rooms and suites feature our Sheraton Signature Sleep Experience and stunning views of the sea, the palace gardens or the Alexandria cityscape; additional amenities include private balconies, complimentary Wi-Fi and premium bath products. Take a swim in the outdoor pool, challenge yourself to a workout or relax on the beach and enjoy the warm Egyptian sunshine. Varied dining options at the hotel include a casual Italian restaurant with seasonal, locally-sourced offerings, as well as a stylish bar, a coffee house and more. If you’re planning an event in Egypt, our expansive venues can accommodate up to 700 guests; outdoor spaces on the beach or by the pool create a unique setting for social gatherings.
SUNRISE Garden Beach Resort -Select
Set on a private beach, this modern all-inclusive resort is 2 km from the giant sculptures at Sand City Hurghada and 10 km from bazaars in the Old Town of Sahl Hasheesh.
Bright rooms come with free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, plus minibars and balconies/terraces. Family rooms and suites feature additional rooms. Kids age 11 and under (1 per room) stay at no extra cost with an adult.
Meals and drinks (included) are served in 12 bars and restaurants, among which are an Italian eatery and a beach bar. A water park features 8 water slides, and there’s a private sandy beach, a luxe spa and a gym.
Paradise Inn – Windsor Palace Hotel
Dating from 1906, this polished hotel overlooks a waterfront promenade. It’s a 6-minute walk from the Alexandria National Museum and 2 km from the modernist Library of Alexandria.
The antiques-filled rooms feature gilded walls and hand-decorated high ceilings, as well as free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs; most have private balconies with Mediterranean Sea views. Upgraded rooms include living areas, while suites add stately living rooms, and art from the hotel’s collection.
A restaurant adorned with frescoes serves high-end cuisine. There’s also a cafe with a terrace, which serves light fare.
Hilton Alexandria Corniche
Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and across the street from a private beach, this upmarket hotel is 3 km from the Royal Jewelry Museum.
The stylish rooms offer free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and balconies. All also provide safes, minibars, and tea and coffeemaking facilities. Suites add living rooms and access to a lounge that serves breakfast. Room service is available.
There are chic French, Greek and Lebanese restaurants, plus open-air dining, a cigar bar and a trendy Asian fusion restaurant/nightclub. Other amenities include a rooftop infinity pool, a spa and a fitness room. Meeting and event space is available
Hilton Alexandria Green Plaza
Set 3 km from Alexandria International Airport, this polished hotel in the Green Plaza shopping mall is 5 km from the Royal Jewelry Museum.
Refined rooms feature flat-screen TVs, seating areas and Wi-Fi, plus tea and coffeemakers. Club rooms and suites add access to a lounge with complimentary breakfast and drinks. Suites also have living areas. Room service is available.
Amenities consist of a spa, indoor and an outdoor pools, and a gym. There are multiple bars and dining options, including Indian and Italian restaurants. Event space is offered.
Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefano
With Egyptian underpinnings and a sleek waterfront setting, our resort-style Hotel embodies modern Alexandria and its unique cosmopolitan flare. On one side, the Mediterranean Sea glistens in the sun; on the other, a dynamic metropolis buzzes with life. Wake to welcome views of either side from your room’s balcony, then head for a stroll along our private beach tucked along a bay in the middle of the city. We’ll show you Egypt from a whole new perspective
Offering views of the Mediterranean, this luxury hotel is a 10-minute walk from the Royal Jewelry Museum and 9 km from the Library of Alexandria. The Lighthouse of Alexandria is 12 km away.
Elegant rooms and suites with chic decor provide flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi and minibars, as well as marble bathrooms and balconies with panoramic views of the city or the sea. The suites add living rooms and dining areas. Room service is offered 24/7.
Amenities include 4 refined restaurants, 3 sleek bars and a low-key cafe, plus a private beach, an outdoor pool and squash courts. Massages are offered in a lavish spa with an indoor pool and a fitness room.
Novotel Cairo El Borg
Overlooking the Nile river, this sophisticated hotel is a 14-minute walk from the Egyptian Museum, a 4-minute walk from Cairo Tower and a 12-minute walk from Tahrir Square.
Casual rooms and suites provide Wi-Fi access, satellite TV and minibars, plus en suite bathrooms, and tea and coffeemaking facilities. Some have sitting areas.
Amenities include a restaurant, an outdoor pool and a rooftop cafe, plus a trendy bar and meeting space. There’s also a gym and a hot tub.
Novotel Cairo Airport
Less than 1 km from Cairo International Airport, this laid-back hotel is 10 km from Baron Empain Palace and 7 km from Our Lady of Fatima Cathedral.
Straightforward rooms offer free Wi-Fi, flat-screens, safes and desks, as well as minibars and tea and coffeemaking facilities. Suites include separate living areas. Room service is available 24/7.
For business events, there are 6 meeting rooms, and the International Convention and Exhibition Centre is just minutes away; for cultural pursuits, the incredible Pyramids and Sphinx are only 40 KM away. And for drinks or dining, the hotel offers a wide variety of cuisines in its 7 restaurants and bars. There’s even valet parking!
Novotel Cairo Airport location few minutes away from Cairo international airport and catch your flight without a hitch.
Le Passage Cairo Hotel & Casino
Next to Cairo International Airport, this upscale hotel surrounded by palm trees is 13 km from the Cairo International Convention Centre.
The hotel offers 420 fully equipped guest rooms elegantly furnished with your comfort and wellbeing in mind. You can unwind, relax and indulge in one of our 22 luxury suites and two Ambassador suites which will give you the true treatment of royalty.
Brightly decorated rooms have Wi-Fi, TVs and minibars, plus balconies, and tea and coffeemakers. Upgraded quarters offer access to a club lounge. Suites have separate living rooms; some add kitchens and dining areas. Room service is available 24/7.
There are 5 eateries, 2 bars and a bakery, plus a nightclub and a casino. Other amenities include an outdoor pool, a kids’ pool and a gym, plus a sauna, a steam room and spa services. Parking and breakfast are available.Free Wi-Fi
Radisson Blu Hotel, Cairo Heliopolis
This stylish hotel near Cairo International Airport
Experience style, comfort and exceptional service just 3 kilometers from Cairo International Airport at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Cairo Heliopolis. Immerse yourself in the city’s history at sites like the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx – both less than an hour away by car. Or, enjoy modern pastimes at nearby shopping malls, bars and golf courses.
Gorgeous hotel rooms and sophisticated dining options
Unwind in one of our elegant rooms or suites with upscale amenities, such as a daily newspaper and turndown service. Free high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.
Choose from a delicious assortment of Italian dishes at the renowned Filini Restaurant, where all meals are prepared fresh in an open kitchen. Prefer something a little lighter? Visit Gourmet House, where you can choose from a treasure trove of fine sandwiches and baked goods. You can also enjoy a cocktail in the atrium at 1122 Bar, or sip your drink by the pool at Terrace on 9.
City views, relaxing spa treatments and modern business facilities
There is also outdoor venues and special event packages
Le Méridien Cairo Airport
Awaken your sense of wonder when you stay at Le Méridien Cairo Airport, an upscale hotel on the Nile River in Egypt’s energetic capital. As the first and only hotel connected to Terminal Three of the Cairo International Airport, we offer a convenient pedestrian bridge with direct access to the hotel entrance. Step off the plane and treat yourself to a new wardrobe at Sun City Mall. Explore the Great Pyramids, visit the Sphinx or study artifacts from King Tutankhamun, all nearby. Afterward, return to our airport hotel for a cocktail by the outdoor pool or a workout at our fitness centre. If you are planning a destination wedding or corporate gathering in Cairo, Egypt asks about our versatile ballrooms and meeting rooms. Choose from several on-site hotel restaurants, serving zesty Lebanese dishes at Mezzeh and hearty burgers at the Live Sports Bar. After an eventful day, relax on one of our plush signature beds and watch the sunset views over the airport. Discover new heights at Le Méridien Cairo Airport.
Cairo Pyramids Hotel
Just a step away from the most ancient civilization.
Footsteps away from the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Cairo Pyramids Hotel is where the glamorous history of Egypt and its world famous hospitality meet. The hotel is the perfect starting point for sightseeing, relaxation and business meetings alike, featuring elegantly appointed rooms, two swimming pools and a variety of bars and restaurants to choose from, all surrounded by lush gardens.
Both the Garden wing and the newly opened Pyramids wing offer guests a gracefully comfortable experience.
Facilities at Cairo Pyramids Hotel
Free WiFi
fitness area
meeting rooms
24 hour room service
central location
restaurant
bar
swimming pool
Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir Cairo
The new Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir is ideally located at the heart of Cairo down town within few minutes walking distance from the Egyptian Museum, Khan El Khalili and the Arab League building.
Cosy ambiance in Steigenberger El Tahrir
The hotel offers 295 modernly furnished hotel rooms and suites. Designed to meet business guests’ needs with free WiFi, 24 hour in-room dining/room service, an all-day dining offer, a lobby bar and on-site parking facilities.
Newly defind culinary highlights
Let us spoil you with culinaric delights in our restaurants & bars – enjoy oriental and international delights in the Downtown restaurant or cocktails and long drinks in the Cairo Lobby Bar.
Conference rooms are efficiently spread over one floor with 1.782 sqm with a main multi-purpose hall taking up to 300 guests, a foyer and 6 private meeting rooms.
To unwind, please visit our SPA & wellness area on the second floor next to the fitness center.
InterContinental Cairo Semiramis
Standing on the site of the historic Semiramis hotel, guests can enjoy modern luxury on the River Nile. This Cairo hotel features a 26 m2 rooftop pool and fine dining with exquisite cuisine for every taste. A selection of twelve restaurants and bars reflect contemporary design, with the Nile Terrace offering stunning views of the sunset over the Nile. Located in the heart of the city centre this hotel offers complimentary WiFi and is located next to the Egyptian Museum and bazaars of old Cairo.
Sheraton Cairo Hotel & Casino
Located on the banks of the River Nile, Sheraton Cairo Hotel & Casino offers effortless service and modern accommodations in the heart of Cairo, Egypt. Select from a variety of dining options, including 24-hour room service and our popular Italian restaurant. If you are looking to host a business meeting or special event, our hotel has an array of inspiring and flexible spaces, complete with the latest technology and bespoke planning services. Take a dive into our outdoor pool or get active in our 24-hour fitness center. Rejuvenate in our spa with its wide variety of treatments. All of our rooms and suites offers stunning views of Cairo, some featuring private balconies. Upgrade to our Club Level hotel rooms with lounge access, or to one of our suites with separate sleeping and living accommodation. Some of our thoughtful amenities include free Wi-Fi and bottled water.
Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First Residence
Flanked by zoological gardens and the western bank of the Nile, our address in Giza’s prestigious First Place complex puts you in the centre of it all. Catch a glimpse of the river or the Great Pyramids from your room as you head out to explore the ancient wonders, or spend the day by the pool, indulging in an aromatic massage once reserved for Egyptian royalty. Or opt for shopping in the high-end boutiques at the First Mall or experience the best of gastronomy aboard our newly opened First Nile Boat, offering panoramic Nile views and brilliant international cuisine.
Kempinski Nile Hotel Garden City Cairo
THE LUXURIOUS HEART OF CAIRO
Located in the heart of Cairo, five-star Kempinski Nile Hotel offers guests an outstanding boutique experience on the banks of the Nile River.
Due to Kempinski Nile Hotel’s exceptional location in downtown, patrons are only miles away from Cairo’s attractions, such as the Pyramids of Giza.
Kempinski Nile Hotel provides a diversity of 137 rooms and 54 exclusive suites in a remarkable location. All the suites have their own private balcony for all types of guests – large groups, couples or solo travellers – to revel in the view of the Nile River while relaxing.
With Kempinski’s
accompanying benefits, such as culinary experiences at four restaurants and lounges, a leisure spa, a pool on top of the hotel with views of Cairo at the RoofTop, and a stylish fitness centre, all Kempinski Nile Hotel guests will encounter everything they could ever desire.
Kempinski White Glove Services has been implemented to ensure a healthy and safe environment for all our guests and employees worldwide.
Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza
Right in the heart of Cairo, flanking the eastern bank of the Nile, the Conrad is very strategically located to reach all significant sightseeing targets with ease.
Steigenberger Pyramids Cairo
midst the Great Pyramids of Giza, historical landmarks and the Sphinx Airport, nestles the newly launched Steigenberger Pyramids Cairo hotel with its luxury hotel rooms. Explore the exceptional journey through history where Egyptian heritage meets luxurious European hospitality. The hotel is located just across the New Egyptian Grand Museum and is only 25km away from downtown Cairo. It is the idyllic hideaway for sightseeing and relaxation
Pyramids Gem Plaza
Modernly built in the heart of Cairo Giza, with a touch of authentic style, in a quiet residential street with just a walking distance to the New Grand Museum, Great Pyramids and Shops, you will find our Pyramids Gem Plaza Residence. Designed in a way to be your home away from home with fully equipped […]
Le Riad Hotel de Charme
Within 200 m from Bab Zuweila gate,Le Riad Hotel de Charme has spacious Oriental suites with private balconies facing El Darb El Asfar. It has a rooftop garden with panoramic views of Cairo. Each unique suite at Le Riad Hotel de Charme is inspired by a theme from Egyptian history. They have a comfortable seating […]
Please visit https://visacentral.com/egypt-visa
Please note your passport should be valid for 6 months after the end date of your visa.
Egypt’s national airline is Egypt Air. Most major international airlines fly to Cairo.
Please check with your travel agent or your favourite travel website for more
information.
On Health – Bring a supply of your medication if you take any on a regular basis as well as a copy of your prescription. However, please be assured that your hotel or our staff will find you a specialized doctor should the need arise.
On Clothing – Upon visiting mosques, please dress conservatively, i.e. half/long sleeved shirt and no shorts. In public areas, this would also be our advice. However, in some touristic areas such as the seaside, it perfectly fine to wear shorts and sleeveless shirts. Please remember to remove your footwear upon stepping into a mosque.
On Photography – Taking photos inside many temples is restricted, so please follow the advice of your guide and the keeper of the sites. In some places, please be aware that the government will charge you for taking photographs. Due to new policies put in place by the Ministry of Tourism, cameras are not permitted at all in the Valley of the Kings. Please exercise caution and respect when taking photographs of anything other than tourist sites. It is forbidden to take photographs of the police, anything of a military nature or indeed bridges, airports and public works. Respect should be given to Egyptian women, use discretion. Always ask permission before taking photos of people and expect to be asked for a tip in return.
Always carry local currency as it will make your life easier, especially when paying for groceries, taxis, touristic venues, museums and souvenirs. In big shops, restaurants and hotels you may use your credit cards.
On Tips – If you feel generous enough to tip one child, then expect to be followed by a hoard of others expecting to be tipped as well. Make sure you have a lot of small bills for such ventures as tipping is sort of expected and even the smallest bill (one pound) will be welcomed.
On Transportation – Taxis are a problem as they do not have a counter and pricing can be very tricky. Best is to use Uber or Careem or else have your hotel get you a cab and negotiate the price before you go on your ride.
In general, always take a bottle of water on your expedition. The heat will get to you.
On the Egyptian Language- Learn the basic words: La’ (no) and shukran (thank you). You will be needing them.
On Dining Out, first time travelers are at a loss. It is best to seek out a hotel chain or a well-reviewed restaurant (ask around if you can) then you can be assured to get good, clean food. The price will be worth it. Never drink tap water! Wash and shower with it, but do not drink it.
On independent travel, for a first timer it is not advised. It much better to take a guide. You don’t need to book a package tour, groups can be arranged here. First and foremost, prepare yourself for a culture shock. Many seasoned travelers arrive and find it is unlike any other country they have previously visited.
On Organizing your Trip – Alone or in a couple or with friends and you wish to organize everything yourself, please let the hotel know of your plans before leaving. Should you get lost, the hotel will be able to act on your behalf. Also arm yourself with hotel address and telephone number, always, as you may need it. Be aware that you might be ripped-off. Like many tourist destinations, Egypt has its “wolves”, preying on unsuspecting, trustful travelers. Often the total cost will be more than if you had arranged it through a travel agent or your hotel and a lot less enjoyable.
The ones recommended are: Yellow Fever (common to most parts of Africa), Tetanus and Hepatitis. Otherwise, just take the usual precautions when travelling to hot parts of the world. Drink bottled water, avoiding ice and unless you are in a well-known hotel and restaurant, avoid eating uncooked greens. Avoid roadside food stands. Bring a good insect repellent as the evenings might be full of mosquitoes. At all cost, avoid contact with street dogs, rabies is still a risk in Egypt. Make sure you have condoms on you, they are also available in all pharmacies. Carry a small medical kit for your needs, with painkillers and diarrhea tablets at hand at all times. We also advise you to carry a travel insurance.
It has never been a problem, however you have to put up sometimes with annoying verbal harassment and this happens to Egyptian women as well. The best thing is to ignore and go on. It can sometimes get really irritating but reacting does not work. There is nothing forbidden in Egypt. You do not need to cover up or anything of the sort, yet to avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself, do please cover your shoulders and cleavage and do not wear shorts. It is just a matter of feeling comfortable and fitting in. Best footwear are sneakers as there is a lot of walking and it is dusty and sometimes the streets are in poor condition and dirty.
The high-season is October to May, making June to September (the summer months and the hottest) the low-season and therefore prices are at their lowest.
Spend a couple of nights in Cairo, take the sleeper-train to Aswan, spend another two nights there while visiting Abu Simbel and the Philae Temple, maybe Kom Ombo too. Then you can take a cruise down the Nile to Luxor, spend two nights visiting the Valleys of the Kings and Queens and the Karnak Temple Complex. Then you can return to Cairo and from there head to a Red Sea resort, either on the Sinai Peninsula or the coast, for a few nights.
Even though we arrange tours… the best BUDGET way is to do it yourself.
It is easier to sit back, have someone make all arrangements for you and just zip, worry-free from place to place (and some people wouldn’t do it any other way; it is a vacation after all LOL). But if you’re willing to put in the work, are flexible, easily adaptable, easy going and you’re willing to deal with haggling etc. it is not impossible to do Egypt without an operator.
In 10 days you can definitely visit three cities. You can even add Aswan in there. For most first-time visitors, 2 days in Cairo is enough. It is an overwhelming city, especially if you’re going about on your own.
If you’re going to do this yourself, I suggest at least securing ground transportation for the day. That can be a hired private car or taxi but you don’t want to be wasting time flagging down and haggling with taxis at every turn. Having pre-arranged transport will take lots of the hassle out of doing things yourself. Having a good guide book is essential but if you can, book a guide or two to break up the monotony and really help with understanding the sites and bringing them to life. There are many good budget hotels in Luxor, Cairo and Aswan, which can be booked on sites such as hostelworld.com. You pre-pay 10% of the booking when it’s made and then pay the rest on arrival. The hostels do tours as well.
If you’re a student, be sure to bring your ISIC card for 50% discount on tickets to the sites.
If you decide you need help arranging all or part of the trip, don’t hesitate to contact us.
The best time to visit Egypt is from October to May. It is the peak travel season, temperatures are milder though comparatively warmer than in the northern hemisphere. This is our High-Season with its two busiest periods: the Christmas/New Year period and the Easter Period, whereby hotels and cruises will put their prices up. This can mean that some hotels become really expensive, so making your reservations very early, even for the budget hotels, is strongly advised. The other 4 months are the low-season so to speak. May to September are the height of Egyptian summer, with very high temperatures, especially in Upper Egypt (Luxor and the southern parts of the country). However, this is the time for you to see Egypt in virtual peace and quiet, giving you the advantage of seeing the sites without any hassle either from school children or crowds of tourists.
Egypt offers a wide variety of 3-star hotels. The prices range from $12 to $20 per person per night in a double room. I would suggest you check hotel directories for rates and locations. Backpacker services are not popular in Egypt, although a few are available.
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