top 10 egypt tours

THE 10 BEST Egypt Tours & Excursions

Egypt tours.

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The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. 8-Hour Private Tour of the Pyramids, Egyptian Museum and Bazaar from Cairo

2. Top Rated Private Giza Pyramids,Sakkara, Memphis, Lunch& Camel

3. Special Private All INC-Pyramids,Camel Ride(1 Hour) Four Wheeler(ATV) & Lunch

4. 1-day trip to Cairo with flight from Hurghada / Makadi Bay / Soma Bay / El Gouna

5. Small group Hurghada to Luxor, Valley of the Kings by Van

6. Hot Air Balloon Ride in Luxor Egypt with Transfers Included

7. 8 hours Cairo day Tour to Giza Pyramids, Memphis City, Sakkara and Dahshur

8. Swimming with Dolphin VIP Snorkeling Sea Trip With Lunch and Transfer - Hurghada

9. Half Day Tour Giza Pyramids and Great Sphinx with Private Tour Guide

10. Small Group Excursion to Luxor Valley of the Kings from Hurghada

11. NATIONAL Museum of Egyptian Civilization Entry Tickets

12. Cairo By Big Bus full day From Hurghada (Pyramids-sphinx-Egyptian Museum-Lunch)

13. Alexandria Day Trip From Cairo

14. 4-Days Nile Cruise From Aswan To Luxor including Abu Simbel and Hot Air Balloon

15. Private guided tour to Giza Pyramids, and Great Sphinx

16. Day trip from Sharm el Sheikh to Cairo by plane

17. Day Trip to Luxor From Cairo By Flight, King Tut Tomb Included

18. Ras Mohamed & White Island luxury Yacht Trip Sharm el Sheikh

19. Super Safari ATV, Drive Buggy Car, Camel Ride, Bedouin Dinner, Show-Hurghada

20. Swimming with dolphins in Sharm

21. Safari 5 in 1 Quads, Camels, Show, Dinner & Star Gazing in Sharm El Sheikh

22. Luxor Day Tour: Valley of Kings & Queens & Hatchepsut Temples

23. Day trip to Cairo by bus from Sharm el Sheikh

24. Luxury Sunrise Balloon Ride in Luxor with Hotel Pickup

25. Private Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, Bazar, Musuem,Pyramids view Lunch

26. Orange bay full day

27. Hurghada: Star watching Desert Adventure by Jeep with Dinner

28. Siwa Oasis All inclusive 3 days Tour from Cairo or Giza

29. From Hurghada to Cairo Super program read carefully, HurghadaToGo

30. Private Full-Day Luxor Highlights East and West Banks

What travelers are saying.

Marin P 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great experience in Luxor Everything was perfect, our helper/assistant Ramy met us at the reception and made sure that everything was fine during the trip. In Luxor we met our guide Ahmed who was full of knowledge and explained everything to us in an interesting way. The trip was much more than expected. Big compliments for the drivers who drove us carefully. Read more Review of: Small group Hurghada to Luxor, Valley of the Kings by Van Written April 25, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

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Fully Guided Tours & Trips in Egypt

Find the right fully guided tour for you in Egypt. There are 1269 trips to choose from, that range from one day in length, up to 30 days. The month with the most departures is May, making it the most popular time to visit Egypt.

250+ Fully Guided tour packages in Egypt with 11,462 reviews

In-depth Cultural
Christmas & New Year

Immortal Egypt - 9 Days

From the moment we landed in Cairo and were met at the airport, to the time we were dropped off on our return journey we were royally looked after by Taher in Cairo and during our trip by Hassan our guide. What can you say both my wife and myself enjoyed our Egypt experience so much from The Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx to the overnight train ride to Assam to join our river cruise down or is it up the Nile to all the temples on-route expertly guided and described by Hassan. Finally to Luxor and the Valley of the Kings I'm still in awe perhaps for me the highlight of the tour, something not to be forgotten. A couple of practicalities, no complaints here about the food, the boat had a full bar ($) and the hotel in Hurghada was all inclusive, a relaxing couple of days to wind down after a somewhat hectic schedule. A trip that won't be forgotten. Thank you Taher. Thank you Hassan Just one other very important point with the current situation we all sadly know about, at absolutely no time during the trip did we feel unsafe or threatened in any way. Not much else to say on that one.

Queen Cleopatra - 7 days

This is non stop tour which allows you to see all of essential Egypt in just 6 days. Our tour guide Ayman and Holidays in Egypt as company were excellent. We did the extras of Abu Simbel and Nubian village. We also did the flight option down to Aswan at the start which was definitely worth it. The sleeper train is an experience not to be missed.

River Cruise

4 Days 3 nights 5 stars Nile Cruise Aswan to Luxor

Hassan Hossni our tour guide was absolutely awesome he ensured that everything we wanted was catered for and so very helpful and funny. Tourradar have been a pleasure to deal with we would definitely travel with them again.

Egypt Explorer - Felucca cruise & Red Sea

Mina was my guide late last year. He was very knowledgeable, accommodating, and organised. I would highly recommend him for anyone wanting to have the best travel experience in Egypt.

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

Egypt Nile Adventure

Excellent tour from start to finish, saw all we wanted to see. Our guide Mina Magda was excellent and very knowledgeable and well informed about everything, also very well presented. He was such a pleasant and positive person and this radiated to everyone on the tour. The hotels were mostly excellent but some had no drinking water in the rooms. Other than that they were fine. Strangely enough I really enjoyed the bus rides through the desert to Luxor and Hurghada, I love remote places. All in all my wife and I really enjoyed the tour and it was also a good time of year to go, not scorching hot.

Coach / Bus

Essential Egypt (5 Star Hotels)

Good times with my group. The tour guides were very helpful and attended to all our needs. Looking forward to more trips.

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

Egypt Highlights

Mina was our amazing guide for our October 2023 14 day tour. He was extremely well versed in Egyptology and attentive to everyone’s needs. Thank you Mina!

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

The tour was fantastic, covering Cairo, a Nile cruise, and Hurghada. As a beginner diver, Hurghada was the highlight for me. Despite traveling during Ramadan, it was pleasant with fewer crowds at tourist sites. The success of the tour was greatly attributed to the exceptional organization by the entire team, especially Bassem our wonderful tour guide.

Best Of Egypt - 5* Cruise

This trip was AMAZING!! It exceeded my expectations and was everything I could have asked for. What truly made it special was our guide, Ray! He was so knowledgeable and answered any questions we had. If we needed to get in contact with him, he was always reachable. The overall organization of the trip was very good. I liked how we started in Cairo, traveled down to Aswan and then made our way slowly back to Cairo. It was a lot of traveling and the first few days were a lot but it was totally worth it! My favorite part of the trip was The Valley of the Kings. We were there for a little over 2 hours and I feel like I could have been there for days. It was just so beautiful! I can confidentially say I saw the Best of Egypt! Overall I would recommend this tour & trip to anyone! HUGE shoutout to Ray for everything -- If you are looking to take this tour you should see if he can be your guide!

10-Day Ancient Egypt Tour (Superior Hotels)

ACCOMMODATION MEALS GUIDE My recent Egypt trip with Vacations To Go Travel was truly unforgettable! Just like my travel companion, I thoroughly enjoyed every moment. Bassem, our guide, was exceptional, and the Nile cruise was a highlight. Despite the early start for day tours, especially during Ramadan when days were shorter, I didn't regret traveling during that month. Ramadan turned out to be a wonderful experience! The hotel in Cairo provided iftar arrangements at sunset, and it was heartwarming to see locals joining in. The decorations for this holy month, both at the hotel and in the streets, added a special touch to our stay, particularly in Luxor and Aswan. Exploring the local culture and observing the deep connection the Egyptian people have to their religion, beliefs, and traditions was a highlight for me. Their kindness and friendliness were truly remarkable. I also loved the concept of free food on tables in the streets across every city in Egypt—it's a beautiful display of community spirit. I can't wait to return and explore more. Thank you, Vacations To Go Travel, for an incredible journey! - Aliyah

Legends of Egypt

Great itinerary, well organized with guides/drivers with much work behind the scenes for permissions, tickets and schedule. Would have liked time for lunch on some of the full day outings both in Cairo and on the Cruise or at least a heads up that we wouldn't stop for lunch as well as no time for shopping other than "factory" type stops that most all in my group were not interested in. Guides were very knowledgeable about the sites. It may have been useful to give members of the group a heads up about tipping for all including the bathroom for those who are unaccustomed to that practice. The handlers for transfers to/from the airport or hotel were on time and reliable, albeit always sleep deprived with unimaginable schedules, yet always kind and helpful for anything needed. Special thanks to Islam. I would have liked input into my flights for Hurghada as I only had 4 hours sleep from arrival from Aswan to departure the next morning to the Red Sea and arrived with a migraine for that part of my trip. Also, rather expensive addition for Nefertari tomb in Valley of the Queens add on at $100 per person, when as those in my group related that, we were already in the area. Our group were left on the boat for 6 hours on the last day without a plan for meals (other than to purchase the buffet) and told not to leave the boat by our guide, but we ventured out alone and were fine, I understand it was to our benefit for the staff to know where we were, but it was again poor planning with the flights to not return sooner to Cairo. Considering all that was covered, it was a great trip and a good tour company and guides.

Egypt Adventure

Very helpful and knowledgeable tour guide, Ramy. An amazing trip!

10 Day Egypt Experience Tour (Domestic flight)

Our 10-day tour was great. We essentially traversed the length of the country with day trips to Abu Simbel and Alexandria. From the moment we landed in Cairo on Day 1, we were greeted (within the security area) by Michael who ensured our airport transits were smooth. Our Cairo Egyptologist, Tamer, and our Luxor-Aswan Egyptologist, Islam, were amazing. A good tour guide really makes a difference to how we see and experience the sights. Would definitely recommend. We felt Egypt to be safe no matter what was happening in neighbouring countries.

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

Absolutely amazing. It is a must do and see in our opinion. The tour guides and drivers were fantastic. We were super happy with everything

Best of Egypt

Great tour with a perfect mix of included activities and free time. Highly reccommended

What people love about Fully Guided Tours in Egypt

Love the service from Nur that brings me the tour to Giza pyramids and museums

Queen Cleopatras is a great tour, highly recommended, Anas is a great guide, he explained everything about Egyptian culture and toke care about our group! I will recommend to head office to deliver schedules with the tours to be able to plan our days. Cruse was amazing, service is great and everyone is very friendly! Also there is laundry available at your room! Ruby II is a great option, the room is very nice! I won’t recommend to take the train from Cairo to Aswan, service is great but services are not good (very old and dirty), washrooms very dirty!

What a Great experience! The staff is so very friendly and our Guide Wael was very enthusiastic, friendly and knew a lot of fun facts and interesting stuff about everything! We absolutely recommend this trip.

Regions in Egypt

Nile Valley (877)
Valley Of The Kings (414)
Northern Egypt (41)
Western Desert Egypt (30)
Eastern Desert Egypt (12)
Red Sea Coast (12)

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Fully Guided
Egypt Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

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Egypt Tours and Trips 2024/2025

Famous pyramids, sandy deserts and ancient temples and tombs - Egypt has a whole slew of attractions and sightseeing opportunities for travelers, especially those interested in culture and history. Visit Luxor to tour the Karnak temple, head to Cairo to visit some royal mummies, or take a trip to Dahab for an exhilarating diving excursion in the Blue Hole.

Egypt Travel Guide
Best Time to Visit Egypt

+300 Trips in Egypt with 348 Reviews

Starts Cairo, Egypt
Ends Cairo, Egypt

Egypt Experience

Best price guaranteed
No booking fees
Tour Type Small Group Tour
Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Local culture
Accommodation Hotel & Sleeper Train
Transport Boat, Private Vehicle, Flight, Bus, Minibus & Sleeper Train
Age Range 15-99 yrs
Operated in English
Brochure Price: US$ 3,055
Special Deal (15%): - US$ 458
Total Price from: US$ 2,597
May 05 Only 4 seats left
May 08 Only 5 seats left
View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Beauty of Egypt Tours – Nile & Abu Simble

Trip customizable
Tour Type Private Tour
Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Cruise Cultural, religious and historic sites , Cruise & Honeymoon 'data-more-tripid='12423'>+1 more
Accommodation Hotel
Transport Flight, Private Vehicle & Boat
Age Range 1-79 yrs
Operated in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish

Essential Egypt (5 Star Hotels)

Tour Type Group Tour
Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture & Local culture 'data-more-tripid='12800'>+1 more
Transport Bus, Coach, Train & Sleeper Train
Age Range 18-39 yrs
Brochure Price: US$ 2,219
Special Deal (45%): - US$ 999
Total Price from: US$ 1,220
May 04 10+ seats left
May 11 10+ seats left

Ultimate Egypt (5 & 4 Star Hotels)

Activities Art and architecture
Brochure Price: US$ 3,680
Special Deal (45%): - US$ 1,656
Total Price from: US$ 2,024

Discover Egypt: Cairo & Nile Cruise in 8 Days W/Air

Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & River cruise Cultural, religious and historic sites , River cruise & City sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='28209'>+1 more
Accommodation Hotel & Ship Cabin
Transport Private Vehicle, Train, Bus, Cruise Ship & Flight
Age Range 1-99 yrs
Operated in Arabic, English, German
Brochure Price: US$ 3,140
Special Deal (70%): - US$ 2,198
Total Price from: US$ 942

8 Days in Egypt: 3 N in Cairo & 4 N in Nile River Cruise

Free cancellation
Activities Adventure & Cruise Adventure , Cruise & Honeymoon 'data-more-tripid='10281'>+1 more
Transport Private Vehicle, Flight, Bus & Cruise Ship
Age Range 5-79 yrs

Felucca Odyssey & Red Sea (5 & 4 Star Hotels)

Activities Local culture & Art and architecture Local culture , Art and architecture & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='12813'>+1 more
Accommodation Hotel, Resort & Sleeper Train
Brochure Price: US$ 2,877
Special Deal (45%): - US$ 1,295
Total Price from: US$ 1,582

Egypt Nile Jewel

Activities Cruise & Art and architecture Cruise , Art and architecture & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='37644'>+1 more
Accommodation Hotel & Resort
Transport Coach, Cruise Ship, Flight, Minibus, Boat & Bus
Age Range 10-99 yrs
Brochure Price: US$ 1,360
Special Deal (31%): - US$ 424
Total Price from: US$ 936
May 18 10+ seats left

Egypt Adventure

Activities Active and outdoor & Art and architecture Active and outdoor , Art and architecture , Camping & City sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='3680'>+2 more
Accommodation Sleeper Train & Hotel
Transport Private Vehicle, Boat, Bus, Minibus, Sleeper Train & Train
Brochure Price: US$ 1,410
Special Deal (20%): - US$ 282
Total Price from: US$ 1,128
May 06 Only 9 seats left
May 11 Only 8 seats left

Royal Tour of Egypt Wonders of Ancient Egypt

Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Natural landmarks sightseeing Cultural, religious and historic sites , Natural landmarks sightseeing , Cruise , Museum and gallery visits & City sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='15598'>+3 more
Transport Flight & Private Vehicle
Age Range 1-85 yrs

Wonders of Egypt and the Nile

Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Explorer
Transport Boat, Flight, Private Vehicle, Cruise Ship & Minibus
Age Range 12-95 yrs
Brochure Price: US$ 3,099
Special Deal (30%): - US$ 930
Total Price from: US$ 2,169
May 05 Only 9 seats left
May 12 Only 10 seats left

Jewels of the Nile (5 & 4 Star Hotels)

Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Arctic Circle Cruise Cultural, religious and historic sites , Arctic Circle Cruise , Art and architecture & Local culture 'data-more-tripid='12810'>+2 more
Transport Bus, Coach & Sleeper Train
Brochure Price: US$ 2,292
Special Deal (45%): - US$ 1,031
Total Price from: US$ 1,261

King Ramses - 13 days

Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture
Accommodation Hotel, Sleeper Train & Resort
Transport Train, Boat, Private Vehicle & Sleeper Train
Age Range 18-80 yrs
Brochure Price: US$ 1,945
Special Deal (30%): - US$ 584
Total Price from: US$ 1,361
May 03 10+ seats left
May 10 10+ seats left

Best of Egypt

Transport Boat, Flight, Sleeper Train, Private Vehicle, Train, Minibus & Ferry
Brochure Price: US$ 1,299
Special Deal (20%): - US$ 260
Total Price from: US$ 1,039
May 03 Only 8 seats left

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Egypt Tour Reviews

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Discover Egypt: Cairo & Nile Cruise in 8 Days W/Air

Egypt - Tour Highlights and Travel Tips

Marvel at the ancient pyramids of Giza, learn medieval history through the mummies, or visit the plenty churches and monasteries, when on a tour in Egypt

Egypt, located in North East Africa, is one of the most popular African nations. You can marvel at the ancient pyramids of Giza , learn medieval history through the mummies, or visit the plenty churches and monasteries culminating from a rich Jewish and Christian heritage like the Saint Catherine's Monastery. Many people don't know that Egypt also offers great diving opportunities for the traveler interested in aquatic activities.

Tour Highlights

Visit the Egyptian Museum in Cairo , that provides an ideal start when learning about some Egyptian artifacts of antiquity.
Cairo in particular offers a wide variety of coffee shops. In fact, going to one is a great way to get acquainted with some of the locals.
Check out the Cairo Tower. Why wouldn't you want to eat dinner on the top of the tallest structure in Egypt?
Enjoy the nightlife. Egypt has integrated popular current western music surprisingly well into its clubs and bars. After enjoying some Trance, you're liable to hear a few Arabic tunes as well.
Go to the Haram District that offers a great variety of outdoor adventures such as horseback rides and tours.
Take a tour through the Nile River. Going to Eastern Africa, without at least seeing the longest river in the world, the Nile, would be nothing short of missing out.

Travel Tips

While on a holiday in Cairo, Egypt's capital and one of its biggest cities, take precautions to keep your belongings safe. Pickpocketing, in particular, is a recurring crime. Best to leave your valuables at the hotel safe.
Drink bottled water. Egyptian tap water is not recommended for regular daily consumption.
Tourism offices can be the source of plenty of information for inquiring travelers.
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Egypt Trips & Tour Packages

Group of travellers marvel at the pyramids in Cairo

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

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

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Egypt at a glance

Capital city.

Cairo (population 9.4 million)

107.5 million

Egyptian pound (EGP)

(GMT+02:00) Cairo

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin)

Learn more about Egypt

Best time to visit egypt.

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

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

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

Read more about the best time to visit Egypt

Culture and customs

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

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

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

Food and drink

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

Things to try in Egypt

1. Hamam mahshi

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

2. Ta'ameya (falafel)

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

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

4. Ful medames

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

5. Pastries

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

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

Geography and environment

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

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

History and government

Recent history.

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

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

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

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

Early history

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

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

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

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

Top places to visit in Egypt

1. nile river.

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

Trip: Egypt Experience

Trip: Explore Egypt & Jordan

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

Trip: Jordan & Egypt Express

Trip: Explore Egypt

Trip: Egypt Family Holiday

3. Alexandria

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

Trip: Jordan & Egypt Uncovered

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

Trip: Egypt Adventure

5. Mt Sinai

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

Trip: Discover Egypt & Jordan

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

Trip: Egypt, Jordan, Isreal & the Palestinian Territories

7. Abu Simbel

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

8. Valley of the Kings

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

Trip: Essential Egypt

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

Trip: Real Egypt & Jordan

Top 10 ancient wonders of Egypt

1. grand designs.

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

2. Stony enigma

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

3. Mighty Nile River

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

4. Terrific temples

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

5. Holy mountain

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

6. Double happiness

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

7. Museum magic

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

8. Roman ruins

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

9. Colossal characters

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

10. The ancient heart of Cairo

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

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

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

Things to buy in Egypt

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

2. Glassware

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

3. Cartouche

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

Festivals and events

Eid al-fitr.

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

Eid al-Adha

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

Sham el-Nessim

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

Abu Simbel Sun Festival

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

Similar destinations

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

Cairo to Madaba

Amman to Madaba

Tours from Cairo

Tours to Cairo

Egypt or Jordan?

Do you need a visa to travel to Egypt?

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

Is tipping customary in Egypt?

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

What is the internet access like in Egypt?

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

Can I use my cell phone in Egypt?

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

What are the toilets like in Egypt?

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

What will it cost for a...?

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

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

Can I drink the water in Egypt?

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

Are credit cards accepted widely in Egypt?

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

What is ATM access like in Egypt?

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

What public holidays are celebrated in Egypt?

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

Is Egypt a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

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

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

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

What to wear in Egypt

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

How will I travel around Egypt?

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

Where will I stay in Egypt?

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

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

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

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

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

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

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to: Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to: UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to: Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to: US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

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

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

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

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

Does my trip to Egypt support The Intrepid Foundation?

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

Animal Care in Egypt

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

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

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

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