trips to egypt 2023

Egypt Tours & Trips

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10 best Egypt tour packages

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Steff Egypt travel expert at TourRadar

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

Pharaohs nile cruise adventure - return flights included, egypt explorer - felucca cruise & red sea, best of egypt - 5* cruise, queen cleopatra - 7 days, magic of egypt (with free all inclusive upgrade hurghada hotel) 12 days, goddess hathor - 8 days (5 stars), premium trip to discover cairo - luxor - aswan - abu simble 9 days with flights, cheap egypt holiday to cairo-luxor-aswan-abu simbel 11 days with sleeping train,sightseeing & tour guided, egypt treasures (cairo, aswan, luxor,felucca sailing ,black &white desert safari) with domestic flight.

• Sightseeing
• Christmas & New Year
• Visit the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza.
• Relax on a luxury cruise down the River Nile.
• Discover unqiue treasures from the Egyptian bazaars.

“Everything was beautiful, safe and professional. I loved it.”

• Learn about 4000-year-old culture in Egyptian Museum
• Cruise along the Nile and admire the beautiful scenery
• Tour the Karnak Temple Complex and the Edfu Temple

“The temples are not crowded, in August. These were worth it.”

• Visit the Pyramids of Giza and see the mythical Sphinx
• Explore the stunning Aswan and the West Bank of Luxor
• Enjoy the scenery as you sail along the Nile on felucca

“He made the entire trip so convenient.”

• Be amazed by the Great Pyramids and Sphinx of Giza
• Visit the final resting place of the pharaohs
• Snorkel, swim and sunbathe at a Red Sea resort

“The accommodations were great, the river cruise was fantastic. Do the trip to Abu Simbal and the Nubian village dinner, it's 100% worth it.”

• Our guides will provide fascinating insights, enhancing your experience and deepening your understanding of these ancient wonders.
• Join our intimate small group tour, designed to offer exceptional value. Enjoy a seamless travel experience with numerous inclusions, all at an accessible price point.
• Embark on a captivating journey through Egypt’s rich history as you explore renowned sites.

• Discover treasures at the Egyptian Museum
• Relax with Red Sea snorkeling in Hurghada
• Cruise the Nile and visit Karnak Temple

“Good mix of visit, rest, informative guide, fast drivers. The perfect size to be able to enjoy it.”

“The guides were excellent and well-informed.”

• Domestic flights: Cairo/Luxor/Aswan/Cairo.
• Cairo round trip, airport transfers included.
• Accommodation: 4 nights in Cairo; 4 nights on Nile cruise.

“Covered all we wanted to see.”

• In-depth Cultural
• Private Egyptologist guides accompany throughout.
• Guided tours of Aswan and Luxor attractions.
• Cairo round trip, including airport transfers.

“The tour was laidback and flexible. Really enjoyed and would highly recommend it!!!”

• Discover Cairo's vibrant nightlife
• Tour the temples of Luxor and Karnak
• Explore the Great Pyramids and Sphinx

“The trip was planned in such a way that the travelers won't face any kinds of troubles at all. Highly recommend, we can't wait to book our next trip!”

Egypt Destinations

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Egypt Trips & Tour Packages

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.

Read more about what to eat in Egypt

Read more about what to drink in Egypt

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.

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

3. Alexandria

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

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

5. Mt Sinai

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

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

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.

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.

Read more about festivals in Egypt

Public holidays that may impact travel include:

Coptic Christmas

Coptic Easter

Sinai Liberation Day

National Day

Coptic New Year

Islamic New Year

Armed Forces Day

Birth of Prophet Mohammed

Many of Egypt's public holidays are religious holidays celebrated according to the Islamic lunar cycle. Please note that the dates may vary.

Further reading

Egypt travel faqs, 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.

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.

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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"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

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and refillable toiletry bottles.

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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Travel in Time

The sands of the desert shift underfoot. The sun climbs high into the Egyptian sky. And the great Pyramids of Giza shimmer in the distance. There you stand in awe before the power and ambition of an inspiring civilization. In this legendary place, explore thousands of years of history while experiencing a thriving culture. Look to the past and keep an eye on the future – the great monuments reveal something different to each traveler. Discover the world of the ancient Egyptians as you visit one incomparable site after another.

Destination Must-See's

Located on the banks of the Nile, Egypt’s capital city of Cairo is one of the largest cities in Africa. Here, visitors find something for everyone: beautiful views, good climate, and welcoming locals that make any activity lots of fun. You can enjoy the arts, go for walks down the Nile promenade, or visit the pyramids.

This is Egypt’s sunniest southern city. The town is small enough to walk around, and life there is slow and relaxing. Aswan is in a perfect location along the Nile where visitors can watch sailboats passing by or dine in a floating restaurant. Every night, dancers and musicians perform in the cultural center.

Giza is the third largest city in Egypt. It is located on the west bank of the Nile River southwest of Cairo. The most famous attraction in the city of Giza, located on the Giza plateau, is the pyramids. Also on the Giza plateau you can see the Great Sphinx and perhaps ride a camel.

Abu Simbel:

The archaeological area of Abu Simbel consists of two temples. The twin temples were originally carved out of the mountainside as a monument to Pharaoh Ramesses II and queen Nefertari. The temples were saved when the rising waters of the Nile threatened, and were raised higher for protection in 1968. In the innermost shrine seats statues of the gods Ptah, Amun-Ra, the deified Ramses II and Re-Horakhte. The temple is so precisely placed that on February 22 and October 22, the first rays of the morning sun shine through the entire temple and illuminate the four gods.

Destination Must-Do's

The pyramids of Egypt are true wonders of the ancient world. They were originally built as tombs for the pharaohs and their queens. Some believe that they had sloped sides so the pharaoh could symbolically climb to the sky and live forever. Today there are over 100 pyramids of all different shapes and sizes in Egypt, as archaeologists continue to uncover and identify previously unknown pyramids.

The Sphinx has been a symbol of Egypt for thousands of years. With the body of a lion and the head of what is generally believed to be Pharaoh Khafra, the Great Sphinx of Giza symbolizes strength and wisdom. For centuries, visitors have included poets, scholars and adventurers seeking knowledge about its history and the secrets it might hold.

Today, the boy king is one of the best-known pharaohs of ancient Egypt. Yet, from the time of his mysterious death at 19 until the year 1922, he was relatively unknown until his tomb was finally found. The entrance was covered with debris, but the inside was completely intact along with murals and so many artifacts that it took ten years to catalog them. Many of the artifacts travel the world on exhibit and provide insight into the fascinating ancient Egyptian civilization.

Camels in the desert:

Humans have used camels for transport for thousands of years. Built for traversing the desert, they can carry about 500 pounds, can go up to six months without food and water, and can easily trek their way through sandstorms. They are herbivores with tough, leathery mouths who can eat prickly desert plants that most animals cannot. When water is available, camels rehydrate faster than any other mammal and can drink up to 30 gallons at a time in just under 15 minutes.

Expert Advice

No one drinks the tap water in Egypt – not even the locals – so be prepared to buy lots of bottled water.

You should definitely pack comfortable walking shoes, preferably with crepe or rubber soles, as well as a hat for sun protection, and swimwear for free time when on the cruise. Please note that dress in the Egypt is conservative; however casual touring wear such as shorts and tee shirts are acceptable for tourists, though you may feel more comfortable in long pants or long skirts. Linen is recommended so as to protect you from heat and sun.

When I am traveling here I like to keep some cash on hand. I’ve found that many Egyptians rely on tips for the majority of their income.

Featured Tours to Egypt

Treasures of Egypt

Journey Through Egypt and Jordan

Jordan & Israel: Cultural Crossroads

Iconic Israel

Brochures that Feature Our Egypt Tours

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