10-Day Egypt Itinerary: Pyramids, Nile Cruise & Luxor by a Cairo Native

Planning a 10-day Egypt itinerary and not sure where to start? This guide combines the classic first-timer route: Cairo, Giza, a Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor, and a visit to Abu Simbel, with the cultural insights only a Cairo-born traveler can share.

I grew up with the coffee rituals of Khan el-Khalili and long summer days on the Alexandria coast. I’ve used those memories to create a practical plan that helps you travel confidently and go beyond the famous sights.

My goal is to help you experience not only Egypt’s ancient wonders, but its living soul; the flavors, rhythms, and traditions that shaped my life. Ready to explore Egypt through a local’s eyes?

10-Day Egypt Itinerary at a Glance

Jump to: Day 1–3 (Cairo) | Day 4 (Aswan) | Day 5–6 (Nile Cruise) | Day 7–8 (Luxor) | Day 9–10 (Return & Departure)

Want a taste of Cairo’s spirit before you go? Explore my personal and literary journey through the city.

Table of Contents

To make navigation easier, I've created a handy index. Just click on the topic that interests you most! Or skip straight to the FAQ at the end of the post!

• Visual Map: The 10-Day Journey Through Egypt

• Quick Planning: What to Know Before You Go

• Cairo: The Vibrant Capital (Days 1-3)

• Nile Cruise: The Heart of the Trip (Days 4-6)

• Luxor: The City of the Pharaohs (Days 7-8)

• Return to Cairo and Departure (Days 9-10)

• Conclusion: Your Personal Journey on a 10-Day Egypt Itinerary

• FAQ: 10-Day Egypt Itinerary

Visual Map: The 10-Day Journey Through Egypt

🗺️ Follow the path of the pharaohs, from Cairo to the Nile, with TripnSense! By Mona Sho, born in Cairo

📍Cairo (Days 1–3):

The beating heart of Egypt, where chaos and history dance together.

• Immersion in the capital: Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, Grand Egyptian Museum, Khan el-Khalili, Saladin Citadel, Coptic Quarter.

• Experience: Lose yourself in Khan el-Khalili and order a reading from the lees at Café El Fishawy.

• Tip: If you're in Egypt during Ramadan, attend an iftar to experience the warmth of the Egyptians.

📍Aswan (Day 4):

The calm city where the Nile sparkles and the cruise begins.

• Immersion in Aswan: Temple of Philae, sunset felucca ride, Abu Simbel.

• Experience: Sailing on the felucca is magical! My boatman told me legends of the Nile that I've never forgotten.

• Tip: Ask about local moulids to enjoy dancing and sweets! 🎶

📍Nile Cruise (Days 4–6):

An Egyptian tale sailing from Aswan to Luxor.

• Cruise Immersion: Kom Ombo, Edfu, Esna, arrival in Luxor.

• Experience: The Crocodile Temple in Kom Ombo is surreal and a unique attraction on the trip.

• Tip: Talk to the cruise guides; their stories are gold!

📍Luxor (Days 7–8):

The largest open-air museum in the world.

• Luxor Immersion: Karnak and Luxor Temples (East Bank), Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut, Colossi of Memnon (West Bank).

• Experience: Listening to myths about Hatshepsut in her temple gives you the feeling that she still reigns.

• Tip: Watch the Tanoura dance at night: it's breathtaking!

📍Luxor and Return to Cairo (Day 9):

A day to end with excitement.

• Immersion of the Day: Hot air balloon ride (optional) in Luxor, flight to Cairo, dinner on the banks of the Nile.

• Experience: The hot air balloon in Luxor shows Egypt in a way I had never imagined. Pure enchantment.

• Tip: End with dinner on the Nile, feeling the Cairo breeze.

📍Cairo and Departure (Day 10):

Time to say goodbye with a full heart.

Immersion of the Day: Last shopping spree at Khan el-Khalili, an Arabic café.

Experience: Having an Arabic coffee in Cairo is like embracing the city before you leave.

Tip: Say "salaam alaikum" and hear one last local story!

Egypt in 10 Days on a Map

Quick Planning: What to Know Before You Go

Before diving into the day-to-day itinerary, it's worth gathering some practical information to make your trip easier:

When is the best time to visit Egypt?

October to April.

These months offer mild weather in Cairo, Luxor and Aswan.

Do I need a visa for Egypt?

Most travelers do.You can enter with:

• e-Visa: Apply online 7+ days before travel.

• Visa on Arrival: US$25 cash for eligible nationalities.

Passport: Valid 6+ months after entry.

What is the best way to travel between Cairo, Aswan, and Luxor?

Fastest:

• Domestic flights (1–1.5 h each). Best for a 10-day trip.

Most cultural:

• Overnight sleeper train (10–12 h). Slower and less comfortable.

Summary:

1. Fly if you want efficiency.

2. Train if you want the experience.

👉 Prefer everything arranged for you? Check out this 4 days Cairo–Luxor overnight tour by VIP train on GetYourGuide, which includes transport and guided sightseeing for a smooth, worry-free journey.

How much does a 10-day itinerary in Egypt cost?

Per person, mid-range, excluding international flights (in U$D)

Typical Budget: $1,500 – $2,500

Notes: Balloon rides, Abu Simbel by plane, and premium photo/tomb tickets are extras.

• 💎 Worth the Splurge: The Abu Simbel excursion, a hot air balloon ride in Luxor, and a hotel with a direct Pyramid or Nile view.

How to save money on an Egypt itinerary

• Choose 4-star hotels

• Book a 3-night cruise

• Travel during shoulder months (Nov, Mar)

• Bundle tours with one operator

  
  

Cairo in 3 Days: Pyramids, Museums & Old Cairo (Days 1 to 3)

Planning a 3-day trip to Cairo? This itinerary strikes the perfect balance between iconic history and contemporary culture, allowing you to experience the true city's pulse without feeling rushed.

Day 1: Arrival and Encounter with Eternity in Giza

Morning/Afternoon: Arrival and First Impression

Welcome to Egypt! Upon arrival at the airport, the first step is to go through immigration and obtain your visa. From there, head to your hotel.

My personal tip: Stay in Giza on the first day. Being close to the pyramids saves valuable transit time and allows you to start your trip at the highest point. From the second day onward, opt for hotels in Zamalek or Downtown, ideal for exploring the rest of the city.

Afternoon: Giza Pyramids and Sphinx Tour

Get ready for the most anticipated moment of your trip. A tour of the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx deserves at least 3 to 4 hours. Walk around the base of the pyramids, enter one of them (if you dare!), and secure the classic photo with the Sphinx.

• Start at the panoramic viewpoint, from where you can admire the entire pyramid complex.

• Negotiate in advance if you want the famous camel photo.

Evening: Light Show at the Pyramids

To end the day, the question many ask: is the light show at the Cairo pyramids worth it? In my opinion, yes. Seeing the pyramids illuminated as they tell the story of the pharaohs under the starry desert sky is magical and a poetic way to end your first day in Egypt.

Imagine the lights turning on along the ancient ceremonial path of the temple, where Khufu's Great Solar Barque rests in the shadow of the Sphinx. It's touristy, but it provides an effortless first historical immersion.

Local tip:

Bring a hat, water, and sunscreen. The sun on the Giza Plateau is intense even in milder months.

Day 2: Pharaonic Treasures and the Heart of Old Cairo

Morning: Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)

Start the day by exploring the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, the largest archaeological museum in the world.

The grandeur of the place is impressive: thousands of pieces, including Tutankhamun's treasure, are displayed in a modern and interactive format.

Practical tip: Buy tickets online in advance to avoid lines and reserve at least four hours for the visit.

The main focus, of course, is the Tutankhamun gallery, but my suggestion is the same as my emotional itinerary: also look for everyday objects, such as statues of scribes and utensils.Commonly used items bring the past closer to real life.

👉 If the GEM isn't fully open when you're there, head to the Egyptian Museum in downtown Tahrir Square, which houses thousands of original pieces.

Afternoon: Khan el-Khalili and Gamaliya

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Khan el-Khalili, Cairo's most famous market, in the Islamic neighborhood of Gamaliya. Among lanterns, spices, fabrics, and jewelry, every alley feels like a step back in time.

Here, the experience goes far beyond shopping. Let yourself be carried away by the scents of spices, the sounds of artisans, and the vibrant colors of the lanterns.

Shopping tip: My grandmother taught me that haggling is a dance, not a fight. Start by offering half the asking price, always with a smile. Bargaining is part of the culture and makes the experience more fun, an art that served me well in the corridors of Istanbul's Grand Bazaar.

Take the opportunity to explore the area's medieval streets, lined with mosques and historic facades.

Late Afternoon / Evening: Tea, Dinner, and the Soul of the Neighborhood

End the day at the legendary Café El Fishawy, in business for over 200 years inside Khan el-Khalili.

Order a mint tea or Turkish coffee and watch the world go by, breathing in the same atmosphere that inspired Egyptian Nobel laureate Naguib Mahfouz. Enjoy the ritual: sip and give thanks with shukran. It's like entering the heart of Cairo!

If you’d like to see Cairo through my childhood lens, milkman bells and coffee rituals, read my story post Cairo of my Memories.

For dinner, choose one of the small restaurants tucked away in the alleys; simple, yet authentic and delicious.

• Local tip: Cairo's Islamic Quarter is best explored on foot. Take an Uber or taxi to the main entrance of the market and stroll leisurely.

Day 3: Islamic Cairo, Coptic Quarter, and Journey South

Morning: Saladin Citadel and Alabaster Mosque

Dedicate the morning to exploring a different side of the city's history. Ascend to the Saladin Citadel, an imposing medieval fortress where breathtaking panoramic views of Cairo unfold before you.

Within its walls, the main attraction is the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, also known as the Alabaster Mosque, with its sumptuous Ottoman-style cladding. The contrast with the medieval Gamaliya mosques is fascinating.

• Dress appropriately: shoulders and knees must be covered; women have to wear a headscarf. Carrying a scarf in your bag is always a good idea.

• Visit time: Allow at least 1.5 hours to walk around the citadel and enjoy the panoramic views of Cairo.

Afternoon: A Dive into Coptic Cairo

After lunch, explore Cairo's Coptic Quarter, one of the oldest Christian refuges in the world. The peaceful and quiet atmosphere contrasts with the city's hustle and bustle.

• Visit the Hanging Church, built on the ruins of a Roman fortress.

• Explore the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, where, according to tradition, the Holy Family found refuge during their flight to Egypt.

• Step inside the Ben Ezra Synagogue, a cornerstone of Egypt's Jewish heritage and the site where the famed Cairo Geniza manuscripts were discovered.

This tour reveals the coexistence of religions and cultures that shaped Cairo's identity.

Evening: Heading to the Heart of the Nile: Aswan

It's time to say goodbye to Cairo (for now!)

• Flight Cairo–Aswan: quick and convenient (1.5 hours), ideal for those with only 10 days.

• 🚆 Overnight train Cairo–Aswan: longer (10 to 12 hours), but an authentic cultural experience.

• Local tip: To maximize your 10-day Egyptian itinerary, domestic flights are the most efficient way to travel, saving you valuable time. But if you want to experience the country like the locals and have an adventurous spirit, the overnight train can be a memorable experience.

  
  

Cairo in 3 Days: What You'll Take Away

Here are the main attractions you’ll cover in 3 days: the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, the Grand Egyptian Museum, the Citadel, the Coptic Quarter, and the buzzing lanes of Khan el-Khalili. Use this interactive map to see how they connect.

Three days in Cairo are enough to experience the essence of the capital: from the Pyramids of Giza and the impact of Pharaonic Egypt, to immersing yourself in the vibrant soul of Khan el-Khalili and the cultural diversity of the Islamic Citadel and the Coptic Quarter.

This balance of monumentality, everyday life, and spirituality sets the perfect stage for your journey to the Nile, Aswan, and Abu Simbel.

Aswan & the Nile Cruise: Temples and River Life (Days 4 to 6)

Is a Nile cruise worth it? Absolutely. The classic 4-day cruise is the most efficient and scenic way to visit the great temples of Upper Egypt while observing timeless scenes of life on the riverbanks. It is the heart of any trip to the country.

Day 4: Aswan, the Serene Jewel of the Nile

Morning: Arrive in Aswan and embark on the cruise

Welcome to Aswan, considered one of the most charming cities in Egypt. Check in for your Nile cruise. The first sensation is one of peace: here, the rhythm is dictated by the slow current of the river, a welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of Cairo.

Take the opportunity to relax in the cabin or on the deck overlooking the Nile.

Afternoon: Philae Temple, Aswan Dam, and Unfinished Obelisk

• Visit the Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Rescued from the waters of the dam, it sits on an island. Reaching it by boat is an experience in itself, adding to the site's unique magic.

• Stop at the Aswan High Dam, a monumental feat of modern engineering that changed the course of the Nile and the geography of Egypt.

• Finish with the Unfinished Obelisk, which shows how these colossi were carved directly from the stone.

Late Afternoon: Felucca Ride on the Nile

Nothing is more classic in Aswan than a felucca (traditional sailing boat) ride at sunset. Sailing, powered only by the wind, as the sky turns orange over Elephantine Island, is a memory that lasts forever.

• For me, this is the true spectacle of the Nile: watching life unfold on the banks with a seemingly unchanging cadence, feeling a profound sense of continuity, as if time flowed differently there.

• Local tip: Aswan has a calmer pace than Cairo. Slow down, observe the river, and experience Nubian life. During the felucca ride, accept a mint tea offered by the boatman. It's a gesture of hospitality that connects you to the soul of the Nile.

Day 5: The Grandeur of Abu Simbel and Kom Ombo

Early Morning: The Journey to Abu Simbel

Leave early (the trip takes around 3 hours by road, usually by bus convoy) to visit the Temples of Ramses II and Nefertari at Abu Simbel. Explore the two temples carved into the mountain:

• The larger, dedicated to Ramses II, is famous for the solar phenomenon that illuminates its interior twice a year.

• The smaller, dedicated to Queen Nefertari, his favorite wife, is of rare delicacy.

The grandeur and engineering feat: the temples were removed stone by stone in the 1960s to avoid being swallowed by Lake Nasser, making this visit one of the most impressive.

The scenery along the lakeshore is stunning, and the colossi of Ramses II emerging from the rock at sunrise are an unforgettable sight.

Set aside the entire morning: departure, visit, and return.

Short on time? Consider the early-morning flight from Aswan; much faster than the road convoy (though pricier).

Afternoon: Nile Cruise

After returning to Aswan and having lunch on the boat, the cruise finally begins its journey down the Nile.

This afternoon is for relaxing on the deck, enjoying the pool, and observing the contrast between the golden desert and the Nubian villages that line the banks. It's one of the most contemplative parts of the cruise, when time seems to flow with the river's tranquil rhythm.

Evening: Temple of Kom Ombo

• The first stop on the cruise is the Temple of Kom Ombo. The nighttime visit, with the temple fully illuminated, creates a magical atmosphere.

  
  

• What makes Kom Ombo unique is that it is a double temple, dedicated to two gods: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon god.

  
  

• Next door, visit the small museum that houses crocodile mummies found in the region, a fascinating curiosity.

  
  

• Local tip: Sun protection at Abu Simbel is non-negotiable. The desert heat is intense, and there is virtually no shade, so a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential, even if you arrive at dawn.

  
  

Day 6: The Temple of Horus and the Esna Lock

Morning – Temple of Horus in Edfu

Early morning, the cruise docks in Edfu, home to the Temple of Horus, considered the best-preserved temple in all of Egypt.

Dedicated to the falcon god, it is impressive for its size and the well-preserved inscriptions on the walls. Having been buried under sand for centuries, its walls, ceilings, and columns are incredibly intact, allowing you to truly appreciate what a temple looked like in the Pharaonic era.

• Access to the temple is usually by horse-drawn carriage, but if you prefer, check with the agency for alternative transportation options. For those seeking a more sustainable approach and a conscious travel experience, consider using electric bicycles or shared vans, which are more animal-friendly transportation options.

• Allow at least an hour and a half for the visit, touring the courtyard, the hypostyle hall, and the inner sanctuary.

• The depictions of the fight between Horus and Seth, engraved on the walls, are among the unmissable highlights.

Afternoon: Passing through the Esna Lock

Back on the boat, it's time to relax on the deck and enjoy a few more hours of sailing toward Luxor.

It's a fascinating moment to watch from the deck: the ship enters the lock, the locks close, and water is pumped to raise (or lower) the vessel to the next level of the river. It's a living engineering lesson.

• The boat is literally "raised" through the locks, which can take up to an hour.

• While you wait, local vendors approach in small boats, offering handicrafts and textiles in unusual ways: they throw their wares into the boat and wait for you to throw back the money. A fun and unique scene.

Evening – Arrival in Luxor

After passing through the lock, the ship docks in Luxor, ancient Thebes, capital of the pharaohs at the height of their power. The city already appears majestic at night, with the illuminated Luxor Temple reflecting on the waters of the Nile.

• Dine on board and rest: the next few days will be dedicated to some of the most magnificent experiences of the entire trip.

• Local tip: If you want to buy something during your stopover in Esna, bargaining with good humor is part of the experience. But don't feel obligated; watching is just as fun.

Luxor Highlights: Valley of the Kings & Karnak Temple (Days 7 and 8)

Day 7: The Valley of the Kings in Luxor: The City of the Dead (West Bank)

Morning: The Valley of the Kings

This is the day to cross to the west bank of the Nile, the necropolis of Thebes, where the pharaohs were buried. The main visit is to the Valley of the Kings, the secret cemetery that housed the tombs of Tutankhamun, Ramses II, and Seti I.

• While the general admission covers three tombs, Tutankhamun's can be visited for an additional fee. Small and simple, but loaded with historical symbolism, it's worth it for the thrill of seeing the exact spot where the treasure was found.

  
  

• The colors preserved on the walls after thousands of years are impressive.

  
  

• Other well-preserved tombs: Ramesses IV, Ramesses IX, and Merenptah.

  
  

• Walking through these corridors decorated with hieroglyphics and scenes from the Book of the Dead is an experience that connects directly with pharaonic spirituality, an immersion in ancient history as profound as that felt when exploring the Greek temples of Sicily.

  
  

Afternoon: Temple of Hatshepsut and Colossi of Memnon

Continue your exploration with a visit to the Temple of Hatshepsut, dedicated to the only woman to reign as pharaoh.

• Carved into the rock of Deir el-Bahari, the temple features a succession of monumental terraces that create the illusion of blending into the mountain.

• Its innovative architecture contrasts with other temples in Egypt.

• Observe the reliefs that recount the expedition to the Kingdom of Punt, a landmark feat of her reign.

• On the way back, stop to photograph the Colossi of Memnon, two colossal 18-meter statues that guarded the entrance to the funerary temple of Amenhotep III.

• In ancient times, travelers claimed to hear sounds coming from the statues at dawn and believed them to be oracles.

Evening: Disembarkation and Check-in in Luxor

After an intense day, it's time to say goodbye to the cruise. Check out and head to your hotel in Luxor. Enjoy the evening for a quiet dinner and some recharging.

Local tip: The heat on the West Bank can be intense, especially in the Valley of the Kings. Bring a hat, a bottle of water, and don't hesitate to use the electric carts available to shorten your journey.

Day 8: The Monumental Temples of Luxor: The City of the Living (East Bank)

Morning: The Gigantic Temple of Karnak

Prepare to feel small. The Temple of Karnak is not just a temple, but the largest religious complex ever built in antiquity. Dedicate the entire morning to exploring its various sections.

• An absolute highlight: the Hypostyle Hall has 134 gigantic columns that resemble a stone forest.

• Pass by the Sacred Lake and the immense obelisk erected by Hatshepsut.

• A guided tour is highly recommended to understand the complexity and centuries of construction that shaped Karnak. Each courtyard, each chapel, reveals layers of history.

Afternoon/Evening: The Magic of Luxor Temple

After lunch and a rest, visit the Temple of Luxor in the late afternoon. The experience is completely different from Karnak: while Karnak impresses with its scale, Luxor enchants with its harmony and beauty.

• The Temple was designed as a space for the celebration of life and royalty. Arriving in

• daylight and staying until dusk is one of the most beautiful sights of the entire trip, with columns and statues taking on a golden, mystical aura.

  
  

• The monumental entrance is marked by colossal statues of Ramses II and an obelisk (its counterpart now stands in Paris, on Place de la Concorde, another stage for history and revolution).

  
  

• Walk along the Avenue of the Sphinxes, which connects Luxor to Karnak. Although the entire walk is long (almost 3 km), it's worth at least the initial stretch to get a sense of the grandeur of the project.

  
  

• Local tip: For more relaxed photos at Karnak, arrive early, before the large tour groups. For Luxor Temple, plan your visit for late afternoon, so you can see it both during the day and illuminated at night.

Final Day in Cairo: What to Do Before You Leave (Days 9 and 10)

Day 9: Sunrise in Luxor and Return to Cairo

Morning: Hot Air Balloon Ride in Luxor (optional)

For a magical perspective on Luxor, drift over the Valley of the Kings in a hot air balloon as the sun rises, illuminating the ancient temples and tombs below.

The flight begins before dawn, so you'll be in the air as the sun rises over the West Bank. Seeing the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, and the Nile from above, bathed in the soft morning light, is a breathtaking sight.

I took a hot air balloon flight over the Napa Valley vineyards, but flying over a place with

ancient history makes the Egyptian experience even more magnificent.

• Regarding safety: Check if it is operated by companies with a good track record. Read the reviews before booking.

• Local tip: If you're going to take a hot air balloon ride, book in advance. The departure time is early (around 4 a.m.), but the experience is worth every minute.

Morning (alternative): Free time

If you prefer a slower pace, take the opportunity to explore Luxor's local market, stroll along the Corniche (the avenue along the Nile), or visit the Luxor Museum, which has a smaller but well-curated collection.

Afternoon: Return to Cairo

Take a flight from Luxor to Cairo (approx. 1.5 hours). Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. The contrast between the tranquility of Luxor and the hustle and bustle of the capital is striking. Two complementary sides of the same trip.

Evening: Farewell Dinner

Enjoy your last night in Egypt with a special dinner in Cairo:

• A restaurant overlooking the Nile.

• A traditional option in the Zamalek or Downtown neighborhoods.

• Or a dinner cruise on the Nile, with traditional music and dancing. Touristy, but fun to end your trip in a festive atmosphere.

Day 10: Final Shopping and Departure

Morning: Free Time

Depending on your flight time, take advantage of last-minute shopping at Khan el-Khalili or revisit a special place in Cairo.

Afternoon: Farewell

Head to Cairo International Airport for your return flight, packing not only souvenirs but also the experience of a journey back in time through one of history's most fascinating civilizations.

Quick Extensions & Cultural Notes

Want more after 10 days?

• Alexandria (Mediterranean history, 3 hrs by train)

• Sharm el-Sheikh (Red Sea diving & beaches)

• White Desert (overnight camping under the stars)

Festivals to catch if your dates match: Ramadan iftars (magical street atmosphere) and local moulids (music, dancing, sweets).

Local Travel Tips from a Cairo Native

• Visa: e-Visa or Visa on Arrival.

• Clothing: Shoulders/knees covered at religious sites; carry a scarf.

• Sun: Hat + SPF, even in winter.

• Money: Keep small EGP notes for tips.

• Baksheesh: Tips expected for small services,polite and normal.

• Transport: Use Uber; don’t drive in Cairo.

• Safety: Tourist areas are safe; stay in well-lit zones at night.

• Water: Drink only sealed/filtered water.

• Photos: Some sites require a photo pass; no flash.

• Etiquette: “Salaam alaikum” opens every door.

Conclusion: Your Personal Journey on a 10-Day Egypt Itinerary

Ten days in Egypt is a true immersion in a history that has shaped the world. This itinerary is a practical map for an unforgettable trip: from the Pyramids of Giza and the fascinating chaos of Cairo, to the serenity of Aswan, the poetry of the Nile, and the grandeur of Luxor and Abu Simbel.

Having grown up in Cairo, I've always been captivated by Egypt's vibrant energy. This itinerary was created with that spirit in mind, designed to weave together the monumental story of a great civilization with the small, vivid scenes of daily life that animate the riverbanks.

As you plan your journey along the timeless Nile, I invite you to wonder: Which story will it whisper to you?

If my last post was an invitation to experience Egypt through my memories, this is the guide for you to create your own.

You will return home not only with incredible photos, but with the feeling of having walked through living pages of history and with the beginning of your own emotional connection with this fascinating land.

Accommodation in Egypt

FAQ: Egypt Trip Planning Questions Answered

How much does a 10-day Egypt trip cost?

Around US$1,500–2,500 per person (mid-range, excl. flights). See the full cost breakdown in the Quick Planning section above.

Is a Nile cruise worth it?

Yes. A 3–4-night Aswan↔Luxor cruise efficiently covers Philae, Kom Ombo, Edfu, and Luxor temples while you watch daily life on the Nile. It simplifies logistics and reduces overland travel.

Flights or overnight train between Cairo, Aswan, Luxor?

Flights (1.5 h) save a full day and are best for 10 days. Sleeper train (10–12 h) is cheaper and cultural but less comfortable and variable in timing.

How long is Cairo–Luxor?

About 1 hour by plane; 10–12 hours by sleeper train.

Is Egypt safe for tourists?

Tourist areas like Giza, Luxor, and Aswan are generally safe. Use licensed guides, pre-book transfers, keep valuables discreet, and avoid walking alone late at night outside tourist zones.

How many domestic flights do I need in 10 days?

Usually two: Cairo → Aswan and Luxor → Cairo (or the reverse, depending on cruise direction).

Is 10 days enough for Egypt?

Yes. You’ll cover Cairo & Giza, a Nile cruise, Luxor, and Abu Simbel without rushing, with one or two free windows for markets or museums.

Can I compress this into 7 days?

Yes: 2 days Cairo/Giza → fly Aswan (Philae) → 3-night cruise to Luxor (Edfu/Esna) → 1 day Luxor (West + East Bank) → fly out. Abu Simbel becomes optional or a very early add-on.

What should I pack for Egypt (clothing, shoes, seasons)?

Think light, modest, breathable layers year-round.

• Shoes: supportive sneakers/sandals for uneven ground.

• Clothes: shoulders/knees covered for mosques; scarf/shawl helpful.

• Oct–Apr: light jacket at night. May–Sep: sun hat, UV shirt.

• Essentials: high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, refillable bottle, small daypack.

Are there health precautions or vaccinations to consider?

Consult a travel clinic. Common advice: be up-to-date on routine vaccines; many travelers consider Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Drink sealed or filtered water, wash hands often, and carry basic meds for stomach upsets. Use sunscreen and hydrate.

What’s the best way to handle money (cash/cards/ATMs)?

Carry Egyptian pounds (EGP) for tips, markets, and small shops. ATMs are common in cities; withdraw in EGP and decline dynamic currency conversion. Cards are widely accepted at hotels and larger venues. Keep small notes for baksheesh.

How do I stay connected (SIM/eSIM/Wi-Fi)?

Airport kiosks and city stores sell local SIMs; eSIMs may work on newer phones. Plans for visitors are inexpensive and reliable in cities and along the cruise route. Hotel Wi-Fi is common; coverage can dip in remote desert areas.

Extra safety tips for solo travelers (especially women)?

Dress modestly, avoid isolated areas at night, use ride-hailing or pre-booked transfers, and join small-group tours for major sites. Keep valuables cross-body, set firm but polite boundaries with vendors (“la, shukran”), and share your itinerary with someone at home.

What should I wear at temples and religious sites?

Cover shoulders and knees; bring a scarf for mosques. Remove shoes when required. Avoid flash photography and respect no-photo areas.

Do I need photo passes?

Many tombs and some museums require separate photo tickets; flash is forbidden. Check signage at each site and buy passes with your entry to avoid backtracking.

What were the pyramids?

Monumental tombs for pharaohs and elites, mainly from the Old Kingdom. They embodied royal power and beliefs in the afterlife. The best known are the Giza pyramids (Khufu/Great Pyramid, Khafre, Menkaure); earlier forms include Djoser’s Step Pyramid at Saqqara.

Where is Egypt?

In northeastern Africa, bordered by the Mediterranean (north), Red Sea (east), Libya (west), and Sudan (south). The Sinai Peninsula lies in Asia, linking Egypt to the Middle East.

Is Egypt an Arab or African country?

Both. Geographically African; culturally a cornerstone of the Arab world (Arabic language) and transcontinental via the Sinai. It’s a member of both the African Union and the Arab League.

What is the official language of Egypt?

Arabic is official. Daily life uses Egyptian Arabic; Modern Standard Arabic is formal/media/religious. In tourist areas, English is widely understood (and some French).

Who was the pharaoh?

The monarch of Ancient Egypt: a political, religious, and military leader viewed as a divine intermediary. Famous rulers include Ramses II, Tutankhamun, and Hatshepsut.