egypt travel how many days

Ultimate Egypt Itinerary for 7 Days, 10 Days or 2 Weeks

Planning the perfect Egypt itinerary is never an easy task, because this is one of the largest countries in North Africa, and there’s a lot to try and fit in. 

Any first time Egypt itinerary needs to include all the best things that the country is known for, and that means you’ll be delving into ancient history, and exploring tombs and pyramids.

You’ll also be cruising along the Nile River and then saving some time to relax on the beaches of Hurghada, at Egypt’s Red Sea resorts. 

There’s a lot to fit in, and we promise to use all of the knowledge and experience we have gained from our 7 weeks of travel in Egypt to help you plan the perfect trip.

To inspire your North African adventure, here’s our guide to crafting the perfect Egypt Itinerary. 

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Egypt (Travel Guide)

Putting Together the Ultimate Egypt Itinerary 

Table of Contents

The Best Time to Visit 

Egypt enjoys hot weather all year round, with a Mediterranean climate on the coast and a more desert-like climate in the interior. 

The most popular time to visit is in winter and spring, between November and April when the weather is much cooler but still beautiful. This is peak season though so expect larger crowds and higher prices. 

From May through to August the weather is blisteringly hot, but you’ll beat the crowds, while fall can be a lovely time to visit. 

Read more Best Time to Visit Egypt: Month by Month Breakdown

Getting Around in Egypt 

When planning your Egypt Itinerary you’ll need to consider the best way to travel around. It’s a big country so to save on time you’ll want to fly between the north and the south or take overnight trains. 

You can take a flight or sleeper train from Cairo to Luxor for instance, or Cairo to Hurghada. The best way to get from Luxor to Aswan is the scenic route, along the Nile River. 

You can visit Egypt independently or you can have your tour organized in advance.

If you want to save time and hassle then having everything arranged or being part of a group tour makes traveling to Egypt so much easier, especially if it’s your first time in the country.

We recommend having at least 2 weeks for a well-rounded Egypt itinerary, giving you enough time to see the highlights and to enjoy a few more relaxed days during the trip. 

However, we will also layout itineraries for both 7 day and 10 day options in this guide too.

Costs & Budget

By most standards, Egypt is an inexpensive country to travel around. You can comfortably stay in private accommodation and hotels and eat out each night and you can still keep your costs below 50 USD per person per day.

Budget travelers can easily spend much less than that too, by taking local transport and eating at the really local places. 

Safety in Egypt

Egypt can be a chaotic and confusing place to visit for first-time travelers, and in terms of travel, it can be both a challenge and an experience.

Part of the challenge can be the safety aspects, and while the country is safe to visit you do need to be careful of petty theft and unfortunately, harassment too. 

Look after your belongings and watch your pockets in crowded markets and public transport. Also keep on top of the news and political events, as this can be an unstable part of the world to be in. 

7 Days in Egypt Itinerary 

Egypt is a big country, and you don’t want to underestimate the distances between the cities when you’re planning how to get around and planning how long you’ve got to explore. 

This said, 7 days is the absolute least amount of time you can give yourself to see the very high-level sites of Egypt. You will miss stuff, but we can definitely work with a one week Egypt itinerary.

7 Day Egypt Itinerary Overview:

• Day 1: Arrive in Cairo
• Day 2: Cairo – Tour the Pyramids of Giza & Egyptian Museum
• Day 3: Fly to Luxor – Tour temples and join Nile River Cruise
• Day 4: Nile Cruise – Luxor West Bank & sailing
• Day 5: Nile Cruise – Edfu, Kom Ombo & sailing
• Day 6: Nile Cruise – Aswan & Abu Simbel option
• Day 7: Aswan – Philae Temple, High Dam & Fly to Cairo
• Day 8: Depart Cairo

I will not lie, this is going to be a rushed and shallow overview of what Egypt has to offer. However, you will get a good taste and see many of the places that Egypt is famous for.

As you can see, I have suggested the addition of a Nile River Cruise because with only one week in Egypt, you will want to maximize your time. You can do this by having the bulk of your sightseeing as part of your tranportation.

We have traveled Egypt both independently, on a tour and by cruise. If you choose to forego the cruise, know that you will not be able to see Edfu and Kom Ombo.

You will also not have the time to visit Abu Simbel because you will need to give up a day to transportation logistics. In my opinion, it is simply not worth it and highly recommend the cruise option.

Cairo: 1 to 2 Days

Cairo is Egypt’s capital, the largest city in the country and for many travelers, it’s usually the starting point for any Egypt itinerary. 

Yes, Cairo is big. It’s chaotic and it’s sprawling, but it’s also exciting and enthralling in equal measure.

You won’t need more than a few days, but with great museums, bustling bazaars and the iconic Pyramids of Giza to see, there’s a lot to pack in. 

How much time you spend in Cairo will depend entirely on how many days you have for your Egypt itinerary. On a 7 day itinerary, you will have time to only tour the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum.

Both of which are must not miss sites in Egypt. However, with longer itineraries, you will have more time to explore Cairo and it is worth it.

Popular Things to See in Cairo

THE PYRAMIDS OF GIZA

While Cairo itself doesn’t date back to the time of the Ancient Egyptians, just outside the city you can find the Pyramids of Giza. Dating back thousands of years, these iconic structures are a must-see. 

Experience ancient Egypt first-hand on a private tour from Cairo or Giza to the Giza Pyramids and Sphinx, and Saqqara . Walk alongside your guide as you visit a trio of pyramids and the Valley Temple, then visit the ancient and mysterious sphinx.  

THE MUSEUM OF EGYPTIAN ANTIQUITIES

This epic museum is easily the best in Egypt, with a huge collection of artifacts that will take you back to the ancient world. 

Discover the Egyptian Museum, one of the most incredible museums for Egyptian antiquities in the world with a certified Egyptologist guide during this half-day trip to Cairo . Step back in time 5,000 years as you explore the museum’s collection of more than 160,000 jaw-dropping ancient objects.

KHAN EL-KHALILI BAZAAR

A sprawling market place where you can buy almost anything. Haggle and joke with the vendors as you delve into the local culture. 

Read more 21 Amazing Things to Do in Cairo

Luxor: 2 to 4 Days

Luxor is found in the south of Egypt, along the beautiful, green banks of the Nile River.

This is one of the best stops on any Egypt Itinerary if you’re into your Ancient Egyptian history.

Luxor was known to antiquity as Thebes and it was an important capital for the Egyptian Pharaohs, many of whom are buried in the valleys around the city. 

Popular Things to See in Luxor

VALLEY OF THE KINGS

The Valley of the Kings is the single most important archeological site in Egypt. This is where many Pharaohs had their tombs and monuments built, including the infamous boy-king, Tutankhamun. 

See the highlights of Luxor on this full-day tour of the East and West Bank of the Nile . Explore the city’s magnificent temples, tombs, and monuments in the company of an Egyptologist guide.

Includes visits to the Valley of the Kings, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and Karnak Temple.

KARNAK TEMPLE

This huge temple complex is located in the city itself and is one of the main reasons why Luxor is often called the largest open-air museum in the world. 

Book this great combo admission ticket and private transport service to see the Karnak Light and Sound Show at Luxor hassle-free . Watch the history of Egypt’s pharaohs unfold while you walk around the ancient temple complex. Getting there is easy with an included round-trip transfer.

HOT AIR BALLOON FLIGHTS

One of the best ways to see Luxor is from above, and hot air balloon rides are an increasingly popular activity in the city. 

Take in aerial views of Luxor and its iconic landmarks on this private 45-minute hot air balloon flight . Your guide will be dedicated to just you and your private party.

You’ll be able to ask questions and listen to commentary tailored to your interests. All transportation to and from the launch site is included for a door-to-door experience.

Read more 15 Epic Things to Do in Luxor, Egypt

Nile River Cruise: 5 to 7 Days

No Egypt Itinerary is ever complete without a cruise along the famous Nile River.

At well over 4000 miles in length, this is the longest river in the world, and it’s famously green and verdant in comparison to the surrounding desert sands of Egypt. 

The best part of the river to cruise is the section heading south from Luxor to Aswan. This is virtually the only way to visit the temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo.

You can join multi-day excursions where you sleep on the boat and call in at temples and tombs during the day. The length of the Nile River Cruise can vary but you’ll want at least 4 days to really make the most of it. 

To visit these historic places comfortably, and easily, savvy travelers consider this inclusive, multi-day cruise down the Nile River . Enjoy several stops along the way, and hop off the ship to see ancient tombs, temples, and monuments.

Aswan: 2 to 3 Days

Aswan is another wonderful stop on any Egyptian Itinerary because like its neighbor Luxor, along the river to the north, this is a place that’s overflowing with history. 

In Aswan, you can marvel at temples and enjoy the serenity of the Nile River, as you delve into ancient history. The city is also the gateway to the stunning Abu Simbel, located near the border of Sudan.

Aswan is a special place in that is unlike any other place you will visit in Egypt. It has a completely different vibe and culture, so it’s worth spending a few more days here uncovering that.

Popular Things to See in Aswan 

NUBIAN MUSEUM

Learn all about ancient Nubian culture and history at the excellent Nubian Museum. 

Explore the Nubia Museum with an Egyptologist on a private 1.5-hour tour , and discover Aswan’s most stunning artifacts.

ELEPHANTINE ISLAND

Found in the middle of the Nile River, Elephantine Island was the original site of Aswan when it was a trading post and frontier town on the edge of the Egyptian empire.

Visit ruins and temples and enjoy well preserved Archeological sites. 

Read more 15 Things to Do in Aswan, Egypt (For First Time Visitors!)

Abu Simbel: 1 Day

Carry on south towards the Sudanese border from Aswan, and you’ll reach the incredible temple complex at Abu Simbel.

You only need one day to visit, but you’ll be impressed by the engineering and artistry of the ancient Egyptians who constructed this epic temple. 

Dedicated to the Gods of old, the temple was commissioned by Pharaoh Ramesses II thousands of years ago.

The temples were literally carved from the cliff face where you still find it today, having stood the test of time in the deserts of North Africa. 

See the ancient marvel of Abu Simbel on a private day trip from Aswan . Journey southward by private, air-conditioned vehicle as your personal guide shares tales of the 3,400-year-old complex, a masterwork of ancient Egyptian engineering beside Lake Nasser.

Ideal 10 Days in Egypt Itinerary

While the above 7 day Egypt itinerary is a possibility for someone with limited time, I would recommend that 10 days be the absolute minimum if you can swing it.

Adding an additional 3 days to your itinerary will give you time to see more in and around Cairo. This includes both the City of Saladin and Coptic Cairo, both of which have very rich history.

You’ll also be able to see the incredible sites of Saqqara, Dashur and Memphis, where pyramids pre-date the Pyramids of Giza. All of which are essential in understanding the evolution of ancient Egypt.

10 Day Egypt Itinerary Overview:

• Day 8: Cairo – Take a city tour to Coptic Cairo & the City of Saladin
• Day 9: Cairo – Take a day trip to Saqqara, Dashur & Memphis
• Day 10: Depart Cairo

This 10 day Egypt itinerary includes all of the stops mentioned above, with Cairo in greater detail as I already mentioned.

The biggest addition is the day spent exploring the Saqqara complex, Dashur, ancient city of Memphis and Imhotep Museum. The highlights of this can be found below. Trust me when I say you don’t want to miss it.

Saqqara, Dashur & Memphis : 1 Day

Located 30km from central Cairo, the Saqqara Complex and surrounding sites are some of the most spectacular, yet under-visited attractions in Egypt.

The Step Pyramid of Djoser is a spectacular, and recently restored, example of the first pyramids in Egypt. Surrounding this pyramid is a massive complex full of tombs with well-preserved wall art too.

We have shown photos to people of these tombs and everyone immediately assumes they are from the Valley of the Kings. Wrong! These are impressive things to be seen in Saqqara.

Nearby and sitting in the middle of the desert landscape are the Dashur and Red Pyramids. The two structures that link the Bent Pyramid to the most famous architecture of pyramids that we know today.

Pair this with the opportunity to visit the second largest Sphinx in Egypt, see a massive statue that was unearthed of Ramses II, a chance to gaze upon the oldest mummy ever found and this makes for a spectacular day of uncovering ancient Egypt.

Popular Stops on this Day Trip

SAQQARA TOMBS & STEP PYRAMID OF DJOSER

As I’ve already mentioned, there are some spectacular tombs to explore around the Saqqara Complex. Unlike the Valley of the Kings, where all the tombs are meters underground, the tombs of Saqqara on ground level and easy to access.

Many of them are free to enter and inside you’ll find intricate hieroglyphs depicting daily life in ancient Egypt. You’ll also find detailed cartouche etchings that tell the story of the tomb’s occupant.

BENT PYRAMID OF DASHUR

One of my favorite things about the Bent Pyramid of Dashur is that you can climb inside to the burial chambers for free. This is not for the faint of heart of claustraphobic.

The shaft is long, narrow and decends deep into the pyramid. Once inside, you climb up and down stairs, including another smaller shaft before entering the final chamber.

On the exterior, you can compare the design flaws that led to it’s shape as the Egyptians transitioned from step pyramids to the iconic design we know today.

RED PYRAMID

While this pyramid doesn’t look much different from the Giza Pyramids, it is actually very important. This was the very first construction of the classic pyramid shape that we know today.

The Red Pyramid was built after the failed completion of the Bent Pyramid. The Egyptians, using the knowledge that they had gained about mathematics and geometry, made the angles less steep.

It is possible to go inside of this pyramid now and it is also free of charge. If tomb raiding is your thing, I’d recommend you come here versus paying the high prices to enter the Giza Pyramids. Truthfully, they all look the same inside!

IMHOTEP MUSEUM

This museum sees few people but that is unwarranted. It houses a wonderful collection of ancient artifacts that have been exumed from Saqqara.

There are plenty of pristine examples of pottery, jewelry, hieroglyphics and art to see here. You can also observe a beautifully preserved mummy, which happens to be the oldest known one in all of Egypt.

MEMPHIS OPEN AIR MUSEUM

In Ancient Egypt, it was Memphis that housed the capital of civilization. Today, not much exists of the city but, in my opinion, it is still worth visiting.

Located in an open-air museum (pictured above) you can closely view a massive statue of Ramses II that was uncovered on the site.

Outside, you’ll find the second-largest Sphinx in the country along with several exhumed pillars and statues from the city.

Ideal 2 Weeks in Egypt Itinerary

A 2 week Egypt itinerary is the absolute sweet spot. This will get you into all the good spots and also give you time to relax on the Red Sea.

It also sends you all the way to the North to explore the city of Alexandria on the Mediterranean Sea. Here, you’ll find a strong overlap of Roman and Egyptian history.

2 Weeks in Egypt Itinerary Overview:

• Day 3: Cairo – Take a day trip to Saqqara, Dashur & Memphis
• Day 3: Fly to Luxor – Tour Luxor & Karnak Temples
• Day 4: Luxor – Day trip to Dendera & Abydos, join Nile Cruise
• Day 5: Nile Cruise – Luxor West Bank & sailing
• Day 6: Nile Cruise – Edfu, Kom Ombo & sailing
• Day 7: Nile Cruise – Aswan & Abu Simbel option
• Day 8: Aswan – Philae Temple, High Dam & Fly to Hurghada
• Day 9: Hurghada – Relax on the Red Sea
• Day 10: Hurghada – Relax on the Red Sea
• Day 11: Morning on the beach then fly to Cairo
• Day 12: Cairo – Take a city tour to Coptic Cairo & the City of Saladin
• Day 13: Cairo – Take a day trip to Alexandria
• Day 14: Depart Cairo

While I have sent you to Hurghada, mainly due to logistics, it is also realistic that you could exchange this for either Sharm el Sheikh or Dahab instead.

Personally, I prefer Dahab, as it is more laid back and the diving up there is spectacular. The resorts are also very affordable and simple compared to both Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada.

Logistically though, reaching Dahab is going to require more effort than the other two options. For me, Hurghada becomes the second choice over Sharm el Sheikh, simply due to how commercial it is structured.

That said, you cannot go wrong with any of the towns on the Red Sea. You will find some stunning coral, loads of fish, shipwrecks and plenty of companies willing to take you out diving or snorkeling for the day.

Alexandria: 1 Day

Alexandria is Egypt’s second city, and one of the largest cities in the Mediterranean Sea.

It’s a bustling metropolis that dates back thousands of years to the time of Alexander the Great, who founded the city as he conquered the known world.

Today, it’s the perfect addition to any Egypt Itinerary, being just a 3-hour train ride from Cairo and offering layer upon layer of history to peel back, from the ancient Egyptians and Romans through to the Islamic era. 

Popular Things to See in Alexandria 

BIBLIOTHECA ALEXANDRINA

In the Ancient World, Alexandria was a famed place of learning, known for its exceptional library.

The library was lost though, burnt down by the Romans, but in recent years the Egyptians opened up the Bibliotheca Alexandrina as a tribute to the city’s past.

It’s a library and a cultural center and you can visit four museums on-site to learn more. 

Join this luxurious tour at the legendary city founded by Alexander the Great. You can see there many thousands of books.

The library has shelf space for eight million books, with the main reading room covering 20,000 square meters on eleven cascading levels.

You will also visit abbo el Abbas mosque which was redesigned and was influenced by Egypt’s Old Cairo buildings and architecture.

CATACOMBS OF KOM EL-SHOQAFA

Journey below ground to see the exceptionally well-preserved Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa, many of which date back to the Roman era. 

In this great Alexandria tour, they cover the highlights of the city. Visit the catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa, the Pompeii’s pillar, the citadel of Quetbay, and many more. you will have free time for lunch.

After enjoying Alexandria you will be dropped off back at your hotel.

ALEXANDRIA CORNICHE

The long Corniche is a great way to see the best of Alexandrina. Take a walk along this seafront boulevard, and enjoy sweeping views over the harbor and the Mediterranean. 

Read more 15 Unmissable Things to Do in Alexandria, Egypt

Hurghada: 3 to 5 Days

Hurghada is Egypt’s Red Sea resort destination, and this beautiful stretch of coastline is the best place in the country to relax and unwind. 

You can lounge on beaches, enjoy world-class snorkeling or Scuba Diving and make the most of the sunshine and the great hotels. 

Popular Things to See in Hurghada

SNORKELING & SCUBA DIVING

Hurghada is one of the best diving and snorkeling destinations in the world. There are coral reefs just off the coast, while more advanced divers can descend to deep shipwrecks. 

Head out on the waters of the Red Sea on a full-day snorkeling tour from Hurghada . You’ll travel by boat toward Giftun Island, where you can jump in to swim and snorkel with the native marine life. Lunch is provided on board.

DESERT SAFARIS

Away from the coast, you can head into the desert to discover how the local Bedouin have lived for hundreds of years. Join a jeep safari or hire quad bikes, as you bash through wadis and dunes. 

Experience a fantastic adventure far away from mass tourism on this day trip from Hurghada .

Learn about the four-wheeled vehicles and you familiarize yourself with your vehicle. Then you have one hour for a fast ride through the desert.

Navigate over sand dunes and through the canyons that run through this unique landscape.

You’ll reach a small Bedouin village, where you have the opportunity to explore the desert a little more relaxed on the back of a camel. Enjoy the beautiful sunset in the desert of a small hill and follow the rhythm of the Bedouin.

Read more 15 Top Things to Do in Hurghada, Egypt

Putting it All Together

The biggest thing is to make sure that you have given yourself enough time to truly see the best of Egypt. As I’ve pointed out, it can be done in 7 days, but 2 weeks is definitely the sweet spot.

Where you go and what you do will have a lot to do with how much time you have and your budget. It is possible to experience Egypt as a backpacker on a budget, in a high-end luxury way and everything in between.

Feel free to share your Egypt itinerary ideas and questions below!

More on Egypt:

• Is Egypt Safe to Visit?
• 8 Epic Places to Visit in Egypt (That You CANNOT Miss!)
• Best Time to Visit Egypt: Month by Month Breakdown
• Luxor Hot Air Balloon Ride Over the Valley of the Kings in Egypt
• Sailing Adventure: Nile River Felucca Trip in Egypt

Did you like this story? Share it!

Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• South Korea
• Indonesia (Bali)
• Central Asia
• African Safari
• South Africa
• Itinerary Ideas
• How Long to Spend in Egypt: Itineraries for First-Timers

Egypt is the top travel destination in the Middle East and best Arab country for a holiday, boasting pyramids, the Nile, and the Red Sea.

But, when planning your trip to Egypt, how many days are enough? How do we create an itinerary that makes the most of your vacation?

Here, we offer general ideas about trip durations and list four handpicked itineraries from 5 days to 3 weeks, for your inspiration.

Content Preview

• 1. How Many Days Do You Need
• 2. Itinerary for a Time-Smart Choice
• 3. Itinerary for Families
• 4. Itinerary for Couples
• 5. Itinerary for an In-Depth Exploration

How Many Days Do You Need in Egypt?

When traveling to Egypt, there are two popular choices: visiting Egypt as part of a Middle East tour or focusing on Egypt.

If you're looking to see the multiple facets of the Middle East during your first visit, you could spend 5–7 days exploring Egypt's iconic destinations, before moving on to the next Middle Eastern country. For a quick trip in a week, you're recommended to visit Cairo for 3 days and then Luxor and Aswan for 2 days each.

If you would prefer to fully embrace the wonders of Egypt, many couples and families spend 10–14 days there for a more-relaxed pace and more diverse experiences. Beyond the "Golden Triangle route" (Cairo–Luxor–Aswan), you could also immerse yourself in an amazing Nile cruise (4–5 days) or unwind on the incredible beaches by the Red Sea.

To delve more deeply, you could extend your Egypt trip for over 2 weeks to go off the beaten path, such as to Mount Sinai (1day) and White Desert (3 days), unveil more hidden gems in the popular cities, or have a longer beach vacation at the Red Sea.

Both highly-rated and experienced at customizing private tours, we're experts at personalizing your itinerary to suit your preferred trip duration.

Get to know more ideas about planning a trip to Egypt >>>

Egypt Itinerary for a Time-Smart Choice: 5–7 Days

For first-timers, 5–7 days offer a compact window of time to discover the most popular destinations at a comfortable pace: Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan.

• Cairo is a must for the celebrated pyramids, the Sphinx, and the Grand Egyptian Museum.
• Luxor is not to be missed owing to the incredible tombs and temples, particularly the Valley of the Kings.
• Aswan offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy the serene Nile and visit the island temples of Philae. Additionally, Aswan provides easy access to the impressive Abu Simbel site.

You can see the following time-smart itinerary for a week's trip to Egypt. For a shorter 5-day tour, you could visit two of the three cities in one trip.

• Days 1–3 in Cairo (the Giza pyramid complex, the Cairo Citadel, and the Khan el–Khalili market)
• Days 4–5 in Luxor (the Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, and the Karnak temple complex)
• Days 6–7 in Aswan (the Philae temple complex, the Aswan High Dam, and a sunset felucca trip along the Nile)

You could also get more itinerary ideas about how to combine Egypt in multi-country Middle East trips or the top itineraries for 5 days in Egypt .

Egypt Itinerary for Families: 10 Days

If you're planning a family trip to Egypt, this itinerary is specially crafted for you. You and your kids could indulge in great cultural highlights and bask on sunny beaches.

You could see more family-friendly activities in the following outlined itinerary. Or tell us your interests and we'd love to help to create your ideal family vacation.

• Days 1–3 in Cairo (exploring multi-generational pyramids by camel riding, Cairo Citadel, food tours, the Khan el-Khalili market)
• Day 4 inAswan (the High Dam, the Temple of Philae, and sunset felucca ride)
• Days 5–6 in Luxor (unveilingthe Pharaohs' tombs, sunrise balloon ride and/or a nighttime city tour by horse and carriage)
• Days 7–10 in Hurghada (beach activities like snorkeling and diving, an Aqua Park at the Titanic Palace, and a desert safari day trip to a Bedouin village)

To add more fun to your family trip, we have specifically customized activities for you. You'll have the opportunity to marvel at the pyramids when riding on a camel or horse, sample the unique flavors of Egypt through our foodie tours in Cairo, take a night trip to Luxor by horse-drawn carriage, and experience a jeep desert safari near Hurghada.

We also have more Middle East family vacation alternatives ready to tailor to your needs, such as a 2-week Egypt and Jordan trip and a 15-day Israel, Jordan, and Egypt tour .

You could get more itinerary ideas in Egypt Itineraries for 10 Days >>>

Egypt Itinerary for Couples: 14 Days

This 2-week itinerary is specially designed for couples seeking a memorable trip. Compared with 10 days, you could have a more relaxing tour pace and have a fuller view of Egypt.

You could get inspiration from the following itinerary, which forms the basis of many of our clients' couple trips.

• Days 1–3 in Cairo (the Giza pyramid complex with a camel ride, the Cairo Citadel, the Khan el-Khalili market, Saqqara, and the El Tannoura Dance Show)
• Day 4 in Aswan (Abu Simbel)
• Days 5–8 on a Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor (visit the Temple of Horus on a horse-drawn carriage, the Kom Ombo Temple, rustic scenery along the Nile, the Aswan High Dam, and the Philae temple complex)
• Days 9–10 in Luxor (the Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, the Karnak temple complex, and a sunrise hot-air balloon ride)
• Days 11–14 in El Quseir (relax by the Red Sea and visit Quseir Castle)

You'll experience the magic of Egypt's rich history together through our immersive cultural experiences. Besides the popular pyramid tours in Giza, we have specially arranged a day trip to Saqqara, which boasts a less-crowded experience of the pyramids. Watching the fabulous El Tannoura Dance Show together creates the perfect ending to your romantic evening in Cairo.

For a milestone celebration, what could be more romantic than embarking on a thrilling sunrise balloon ride over Luxor? Hold your beloved and capture memorable pictures with photogenic views.

To enhance the intimacy of your romantic getaway, indulge in a leisurely Nile River cruise between Luxor and Aswan. For even more privacy, we highly recommend sa iling along the Nile in a dahabiya. Just for 10–12 people, it offers more luxury and exclusive experiences for you both!

For your beach time, you're recommended to visit El Quseir for its tranquility and untouched charm. Besides the stunning beach scenery and fantastic water activities, you could also uncover the hidden gems of Quseir Castle.

An Egypt Itinerary for an In-Depth Exploration: 3 Weeks

Beyond the 2-week itinerary sights, with 3 weeks you could discover cultural attractions like Abu Simbel more fully, have more free time for a beach vacation, experience local life, or go for some adventures, such as a hike to Mount Sinai and venturing to a desert oasis — the Siwa Oasis.

But more often, you're recommended to combine Egypt with other countries, such as Jordan and Israel, for your 3-week vacation . You could spend 1 week in Egypt, 1 week in Israel, and 1 week in Jordan.

For further ideas, feel free to contact us and we will create your ideal itinerary based on your preferences, group size, and other needs. You could also check out our 18-Day Egypt, Israel, and Jordan Tour for further inspiration or more itinerary options on 3-Week Itineraries to Egypt, Jordan, and Israel for First-Timers >>>

Booking Your Egypt Trips With Us

Want more itinerary options? You can check our handpicked itineraries for various durations: 5 days , 7 days , 10 days , 12 days , 14 days , and 3 weeks ...

You are warmly welcomed to have us customize your own trip based on your group size, interests, and other needs. Sit back and use our Create My Trip service.

For inspiration, you could also see the following popular Egypt tours:

• 9-Day Essential Egypt Tour with Nile Cruise
• 10-Day Egypt Family Expedition Tour
• 12-Day Best Egypt Tour with Sharm El Sheikh
• 2-Week Egypt and Jordan Family Adventure Tour
• More Egypt Tours

Why Global Highlights (10,000+ reviews & 98.8% 5-star rating)

• Save Your Time:
• Less research, more enjoyment!
• Real-time 1V1 expert planning
• Maximize Your Flexibility:
• Personal local guide and ride
• Explore at your own pace
• Celebrate Your Journeys:
• Specially-crafted family adventures
• Celebrate milestones with style!
• 10-Day Private Egypt Active Family Expedition Tour
• 15-Day Egypt and Kenya Highlights Tour
• 12-Day Egypt Luxury Tour with Abu Simbel
• How to Plan a 7-Day Egypt Itinerary 2024/2025: Top 6 Options
• How to Plan a 10-Day Egypt Itinerary (Best 4 in 2024/2025)
• How to Plan a Trip to Egypt 2024/2025 & Itinerary Ideas
• Weather in Egypt in January 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Weather in Egypt in February 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Weather in Egypt in March 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Weather in Egypt in April 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Weather in Egypt in May 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Weather in Egypt in June 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Weather in Egypt in July 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Weather in Egypt in August 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Weather in Egypt in September: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Weather in Egypt in October 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Weather in Egypt in November 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Weather in Egypt in December 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

More travel ideas and inspiration, sign up to our newsletter.

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why Global Highlights

Where can we take you today.

• Southeast Asia
• Japan, South Korea
• India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri lanka
• Travel Agents
• Loyalty Program
• Privacy Policy

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

How Many Days In Egypt Is Enough?

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Feb 23, 2023 | Africa , Travel Tips

Planning a trip to Africa soon? You might be wondering how many days in Egypt is enough. The answer, of course, depends on what you want to do and see while you’re in the area.

If you’re interested in exploring the region, we suggest spending at least seven days in Egypt.

Ready To Travel? Don't Go Without Travel Insurance.

Check Prices

This will give you enough time to visit the significant sites and enjoy some of the other activities Egypt has to offer, such as visiting the Pyramids, and the Sphinx, or simply relaxing on the beach.

That said, the answer really comes down to the type of holiday you’re looking for.

If you love being on the go and are happy to see everything at a fast pace, 3 days in Egypt might be enough for you.

But if you’d like to slow things down, and have a little more time to spend at each attraction, you might want to consider 6 or 7 days in Egypt instead.

I put this guide together to help you figure out how many days in Egypt you’ll need. You’ll find all the things you need to think about when planning the length of your stay, along with a guide to Egypt’s highlights.

I’ve also suggested how long you should plan to spend at each one so that you can create a realistic itinerary for your visit so that you can enjoy every moment of your trip.

How To Decide How Long To Stay In Egypt

Deciding how long to spend in Egypt can depend on a few different things, like arrival time, hotel check-in, what you want to see, transportation, and more!

To help you figure out exactly how long you’ll need in Egypt, make a list of the things you want to do in the area, and consider the time of arrival and departure. Then, look at the distance between places to keep it realistic.

At the end of this exercise, you’ll know how many days in Egypt you’ll need.

That said, it’s important to keep a few things in mind when planning a trip to Egypt.

Are you planning on staying in Cairo , or do you want to use Cairo as a base to explore further in Egypt?

Cairo can be a good base for exploring the area, but it really depends on what you want to do while in Egypt.

Time Of Arrival, Hotel Check-In Time & Time Of Departure

One important thing to consider is whether your hotel check-in and departure times allow for a full day’s sightseeing.

To save time on arrival, consider booking a private transfer in advance .

If you’re planning on arriving late, you might consider adding an extra night to your stay. Another important consideration is what you will do with your luggage.

If you want to get to Cairo early to make the most of your day, you might need to store your luggage somewhere for a few hours before it is time for you to check into your accommodation.

Most hotels will offer this service, but not all. So don’t just assume that there will be somewhere to leave your bags – find out for sure before you go.

Things To Do In Egypt And Its Surroundings

Egypt is a popular destination for travelers who enjoy spending time on the beach and immersing themselves in ancient history.

The region also offers a wide range of activities for those who want to explore, such as visiting ancient ruins, exploring beach towns, or scuba diving in the red sea.

You must think carefully about which attractions or tours appeal to you the most and plan how to fit them all in – especially if you’re thinking about a short stay.

The list of highlights below will help you put your Egypt itinerary together, but be careful not to schedule every single moment of your day.

It’s always a good idea to leave a little leeway for things like long queues and transport delays – or simply to spend longer at the places you like the best!

Note that many travelers prefer to book tours and activities in advance to save time, skip the queues and make the most of their holidays.

Pace Of Activities

When thinking about how many days in Egypt you’ll need, ask yourself if you want a relaxing break or one that’s a whirlwind of activity. It’s pretty simple; the shorter your visit, the busier you will be.

So if you are the type of person who likes to enjoy the sights at a more leisurely pace – or a history enthusiast who wants to learn as much as possible about ancient Egypt– then a week in Egypt will definitely suit you better than a few days.

Transportation

Think carefully about how you will get around during your visit. While it makes sense to visit attractions that are close together, you will still need to factor travel time into your days.

Can you visit attractions on foot? Will you reach your destination by scooter, taxi, or bus?

Do your research to find out how you will visit the places you wish to visit and keep the distance and time to reach your destination in mind when you build your itinerary in Egypt.

Make sure your itinerary is logical and that you visit nearby attractions in one go. That way, you won’t waste time traveling between places that are far apart.

That said, if you’re going to Cairo directly from the airport, you could book a private transfer to save time on arrival.

Some hotels might be able to arrange a transfer for you.

What To Do In Egypt Area

Here are some of the best sights, experiences, and things to do in Egypt, along with our recommendations for how long to set aside for each.

Visit The Pyramids Of Giza

A must-do while in Egypt, and one of the main reasons many people travel here, is to see the Pyramids of Giza .

These are one of the ancient wonders of the world and are incredible to see in person. You will be amazed by the sheer size and grandeur of these pyramids and you can explore them for hours.

You can take a guided tour or you can even explore on your own, but if you want to go inside the pyramids, be prepared for some walking and climbing.

This is a busy area, so the earlier in the day you go, the better.

Suggested time: 8 hours

Explore Luxor

Another must-see in Egypt is the awe-inspiring ancient city of Luxor.

Here you can see many temples and tombs of pharaohs including the Temple of Karnak and the famous Valley of the Kings.

These temples and tombs have stood for thousands of years and walking around here feels like stepping back in time.

While you’re here, you can ​​see the intricate murals and hieroglyphics in the tombs of pharaohs.

This is a great place for photography lovers to get some incredible shots.

Suggested time: How long you spend in Luxor is up to you, check out our guide to how many days in Luxor is enough.

Nile River Cruise

The Nile is an iconic river known all across the world. You can take a River Nile cruise to soak up all this area has to offer while in Egypt.

Along this relaxing cruise, you can see plenty of major sights, traditional villages, and ancient cities.

You will float past ancient temples and you can take shore at some points to join tours of historic sights in places like the Temple of Kom Ombo.

These boats are exceptionally comfortable with some even having swimming pools. They are the perfect place to watch the scenery go by and take in the country’s beauty.

Suggested time: Up to 7 days

Sharm El Sheikh

If you’re after some sun and downtime by the sea, Sharm El Sheikh should be next on your list to do in Egypt.

This coastal town is located on the red sea and is a very popular holiday resort.

Here you can enjoy a whole host of water sports and activities, and it’s a great place to try some scuba diving in the red sea.

Another big draw for Sharm El Sheikh is the natural beauty of the area. Here you can find stunning natural landscapes, including the Sinai Mountains and the Colored Canyon.

You can organize a jeep safari or a hiking tour to explore these areas.

Sharm El Sheikh is also known for being home to an array of luxury accommodations and vibrant nightlife.

Suggested time: 2 days

Best Time To Visit Egypt

Egypt is a dream destination for sun-seekers and beach lovers alike. But when is the best time to go to Egypt to get the most out of your stay?

This paradise in Africa is always brimming with exciting activities and sunny skies, but certain times of the year are more ideal than others. So, let’s look at what you can expect from Egypt’s weather.

The peak tourist season in Egypt is from December to February when the weather is cool and dry.

This is a great time to explore ancient sites and monuments without worrying about extreme heat.

No matter when you visit, Egypt is sure to provide a vacation that will be remembered for years to come!

Final Thoughts On Egypt Trips

We hope this guide helped you figure out how many days in Egypt is enough.

And remember, the best way to make the most of your time is to pre-book tours and activities so that you can fully enjoy your holiday without wasting time!

Egypt is a great destination to relax and explore ancient Egyptian history.

We hope you’ll have a great time while doing the best things to do in Egypt.

Not sure when is the best time to visit Egypt? We recommend you visit Egypt between December and April.

Traveling to Egypt soon? Read one of the following guides:

• Egypt SIM card
• Is Egypt a good place to live
• First time in Egypt

MY TOP RECOMMENDATIONS

BOOK HOTEL ON BOOKING.COM

BOOK HOSTEL ON HOSTELWORLD

GET YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

LEARN HOW TO START A TRAVEL BLOG

LEARN HOW TO VOLUNTEER ABROAD

How many days in Egypt travel: A Complete Guide

Table of Contents

Introduction

For many tourists, Egypt is the ideal destination because of its fascinating history, recognizable landmarks, and lively culture. It can be difficult to choose how many days to spend in this captivating nation, though. Making the ideal schedule is crucial, regardless of whether you’re a history enthusiast ready to discover historic sites or a sun seeker yearning for leisure by the Red Sea. We’ll explore the ideal length of time for your trip that how many days in Egypt travel so you can fully enjoy this fascinating country.

Organizing Your Travel Schedule: How many days in Egypt travel

To guarantee a smooth and satisfying trip, careful planning is necessary before departing for Egypt. Here is a thorough explanation to assist you in organizing your schedule:

Arrival and Acquaintance

As soon as you get to Egypt, spend some time getting used to the people and culture of the nation. Whether you arrive in calm Luxor or busy Cairo, make the most of your first day to unwind, familiarize yourself with your surroundings, and absorb the first impressions of this alluring place.

Discovering Cairo: Egypt’s Heart

Discover the delights of Cairo, the vibrant city of Egypt, where historical sites coexist peacefully with contemporary living. Take at least two days to visit famous sites including the Sphinx, the Great Pyramids of Giza, and the Egyptian Museum, which houses a vast collection of ancient antiquities.

A One-Day Visit to Giza

One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the magnificent Great Pyramids of Giza, deserve a whole day of admiration. As you stroll around this amazing archeological site, discover the mysteries of ancient Egypt and explore the nearby Sphinx.

Engaging Museum Experiment

Explore the Egyptian Museum’s displays highlighting the Pharaonic heritage of the nation and marvel at Tutankhamun’s riches for an additional day of learning about Egypt’s rich past.

Traveling the Nile: Aswan and Luxor

Take a captivating Nile cruise to discover the historic sites of Aswan and Luxor. Spend at least three days on this enchanted voyage, during which you’ll cruise down the fabled river and come across tombs, temples, and epoch-defining scenery.

Luxor: The Biggest Open-Air Museum in the World

Explore the world’s largest outdoor museum at Luxor, where both the East and West Banks are home to a wealth of ancient treasures. Take in the magnificence of ancient Egypt by spending a day touring the temples of Luxor and Karnak, as well as the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Hatshepsut.

Aswan: Philae Temple and Nubian Splendor

Proceed on your journey down the Nile to Aswan, a serene metropolis recognized for its Nubian customs and breathtaking scenery. Discover the magnificent Philae Temple, take a traditional felucca ride, and visit the bustling marketplaces teeming with spices and handicrafts.

Leisure and Unwinding

After learning about Egypt’s fascinating history and culture, unwind and enjoy some leisure time. Egypt has a wealth of opportunities to relax and refresh, whether your preference is for a desert adventure in the Sahara or beach bliss by the Red Sea.

Red Sea Riviera: Unwind on the Beach and Go Underwater

Visit the Red Sea Riviera to enjoy sun-kissed beaches, pristine waters, and top-notch diving experiences. Take a few days to laze on the immaculate beaches of Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada, were bright coral reefs brim with marine life.

Desert Escapes: Bedouin Hospitality and Safari Adventures

Take a safari trip or stay at a Bedouin camping hideaway in the Egyptian desert for a memorable and daring experience. See amazing sunsets against the backdrop of never-ending sands, ride a camel across the dunes, and explore the surreal vistas of the Sahara.

Q. What are the must-visit attractions in Cairo? A. Famous sites including the Egyptian Museum, the Sphinx, and the Great Pyramids of Giza are located in Cairo. Along with other sights like the Citadel, Khan El Khalili Bazaar, and Islamic Cairo, don’t miss experiencing these historic masterpieces.

Q. Is it safe to travel to Egypt? A. Although Egypt is a typically safe country to visit, you should always be cautious and aware of any current travel advisories. To guarantee a safe and happy trip, stay in tourist areas, stay away from political demonstrations, and be aware of your surroundings.

Q. What is the best time of year to visit Egypt? A. The cooler months of October through April are the greatest times to visit Egypt because of the warmer weather, which is perfect for outdoor sports and sightseeing. But bear in mind that at the busiest time of year, major tourist destinations may get crowded, so make plans appropriately.

Q. Can I explore Egypt on a budget? A. Yes, there are many reasonably priced lodging, travel, and food alternatives available in Egypt. To further extend your travel budget, think about dining at neighborhood restaurants, taking public transit, and booking accommodations in cheap motels or hostels.

Q. Are there any visa requirements for visiting Egypt? A. In order to enter Egypt, the majority of visitors do need a visa, which can be obtained from an Egyptian embassy or consulate either in advance or upon arrival. Before you book your travel, be careful to research the visa requirements specific to your country of citizenship.

It’s important to carefully examine your interests, preferences, and available time while creating the ideal Egypt itinerary. Egypt provides a wide range of experiences to suit any type of traveler, whether they are enthralled with ancient history, looking for adventure in the desert, or just wanting to unwind by the sea. You can make lifelong memories by following this thorough advice and allocating the ideal number of days to discover Egypt’s wonders.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Related Posts

Is it Safe to Travel to Morocco?

• travelwithsathi.com

Introduction With its dynamic culture, extensive history, and varied landscapes, Morocco has become a well-liked tourism destination. Nonetheless, potential tourists […]

Things to do in Mauritius Africa

Introduction Travelers looking for an immersive vacation experience will find paradise in Mauritius, known for its turquoise waters, picturesque landscapes, […]

Best place to visit in Tunisia 2024

Introduction: Best place to visit in Tunisia Travelers are drawn to Tunisia, which is tucked away in North Africa, by […]

How many days to spend in Egypt

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• how-many-days-to-spend-in-egypt

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 21.06.2023

The majesty of the Nile Valley’s monuments. The markets, mosques and madrassas of Islamic Cairo. Ancient rock art, and out-of-this-world reefs. There are plenty of reasons tourists are attracted to Egypt’s epic wonders. But such diversity raises a tricky question. Namely, how many days to spend in Egypt? Planning is paramount, which is where this guide comes into play — read on for itinerary suggestions covering different length stays.

• How many days to spend in Egypt — overview

Egypt in 7 days

• Egypt in 10 days
• Egypt in 14 days/2 weeks
• Egypt in 20 days/3 weeks

Tips for travelling in Egypt

Tailor-made travel itineraries for jordan, created by local experts.

6 days  / from 1333 USD

Discover Jordan

Jordan has it all: spectacular desert scenery; the Dead Sea, age-old cities, castles, monuments, and more. Discover the best of this welcoming country as you delve into the history of ancient civilizations and see one of the New Seven Wonders of the World up close.

8 days  / from 1665 USD

Treasures of Jordan

From the Dead Sea's restorative salty shores to Red Sea reefs teeming with aquatic life, Jordan is full of treasures. Get a taste of desert life and adventure in Wadi Rum; then fill up on culture in Petra and Amman, and maybe squeeze in a trip to Jerusalem, too.

6 days  / from 1080 USD

Highlights of Jordan

Explore the highlights of Jordan in this compact itinerary. Activities include stargazing in Wadi Rum, exploring Petra and spending a day at leisure at the Dead Sea. Your knowledgeable guide will share stories about history and culture and introduce the Bedouin lifestyle to you.

How many days to spend in Egypt — overview  

First things first. Before you can determine how many days to spend in Egypt, you’ll want to have a budget in mind, and decide what you most want from your visit to Egypt. 

For example, some visitors come purely to enjoy Egypt’s best beaches and dive experiences. Others want to focus entirely on Egypt’s ancient attractions, like  Luxor  and other treasures of the  Nile Valley . 

With that in mind, you’ll want to research the historic sites and attractions you most want to see. And, if you fancy mixing it up, you'll need to factor in transfer times.

Top tip : read up on the  best things to do in Egypt  to help you plan your trip. Or, to take a whole lot of hassle out of planning, talk to our  Egypt travel experts .

Wondering how many days to spend in Egypt Try to factor in Luxor's Valley of the Kings © Shutterstock

Planning to visit Egypt for seven days? Be assured you can see a whole lot of top attractions in a week.

If culture is top of your travel priorities, your best bet is to base yourself in Cairo to access a richness of ancient treasures. In the city itself, don’t miss visiting the esteemed Egyptian Museum.

Top tip : discover how to spend  24 hours in Cairo .

Cairo also offers easy access to incredible day trips, among them the Pyramids of Giza, and the show-stopping Sphinx.

You can also escape Cairo’s intensity by taking an immersive day-trip to  Alexandria . With a string of beaches, modern Alexandria has a laid-back vibe, with the Mediterranean Sea and maritime influences on show.

Though Alexandria was an important centre of Hellenistic civilisation and the capital of Ptolemaic, Roman and Byzantine Egypt, little remains from those eras. But in good news for history buffs, the Alexandria National Museum, set in an Italianate villa, reveals the city’s history.

As part of your 7-day trip, you could also explore the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, the Citadel of Fort Qaitbey, and the Library of Alexandria. Fancy some retail therapy? Don’t miss Khan el-Khalili Bazaar.

During a week-long visit, you can also take a trip on the Nile, with plenty of short cruise trips available.

You could also arrange to visit the awe-inspiring oasis at Faiyum (also spelt Fayoum), some 62 miles southwest of Cairo.

Here Lake Qarun serves scenic beauty, with Kom Aushim, located past the eastern tip of the lake, hosting the ruins of a temple dedicated to the crocodile-headed god Sobek.

Have a week in Egypt? Check out our customisable  Introduction to Egypt  itinerary.

Sunset on Lake Qarun, Fayoum, Egypt © Shutterstock

Egypt in 10 days 

With 10 days in Egypt, it’s perfectly possible to combine seeing a stack of astounding ancient attractions with exploring cities, and soaking up sun on beautiful beaches. You could also add in hopping over the border to Jordan. 

In addition to doing everything outlined in our seven-day suggestion, make your way to the magnificent Montazah Palace Gardens. Located in the Alexandria area, this opulent complex has a stunning coastal setting. 

Having ten days in Egypt also gives you the freedom to enjoy a longer cruise along the Nile. How does stopping off at Aswan High Dam, Edful‘s temples and Luxor sound? You could even opt to include the resort city of  Sharm El Sheikh . 

Inspired by the sound of a cruise? See our eight-day  Nile Cruise itinerary . 

For an entirely different outlook, you could journey into  Jordan .The cultural treasures of  Amman  and  Petra  are second-to-none.

Indeed, meandering Petra's monastery route is a Jordanian must-do — the views from the mountain-top are jaw-droppingly spectacular. 

We also recommend seeing the lunar landscapes of Wadi Rum, another of Jordan’s best things to do .

Intrigued by Jordan? Browse our customisable  Jordan itineraries . For example, our  Treasures of Jordan trip takes in a tonne of top sights.

Spending 10 days in Egypt? Consider hopping over the border to Jordan © Shutterstock

Egypt in 14 days/2 weeks 

Yay! With planning, having two weeks in Egypt means you could opt to see an array of areas. You could also spend time in Jordan, as suggested above, or mooch around Morocco.

To take in a lot of Nile attractions in one immersive, exhilarating trip, a cruise could be the way to go. 

After spending time in Cairo and seeing the Pyramids of Giza, lots of cruise itineraries include drifting down the Nile to the Valley of the Kings, the temples at Edfu and Kom Ombo, and Philae Temple near Aswan. 

With 14 days, why not enjoy an immersive desert excursion and overnight at a Bedouin camp?

Alternatively, you could opt to mix things up further by doing pretty much all of the above, plus spending a chunk of time in  Morocco .

Depending on how long you allocate to this segment of your trip, you could visit Hassan II Mosque in  Casablanca , enjoy Fes’ fabulous food and medieval majesty, or meander Marrakesh . 

Of course, if you prefer to take things slower, simply cut out some of these suggestions and spend more time the places that most take your fancy — simple!

Not sure where to start? Our Egypt experts are on hand to help you curate your perfect trip on the Nile, and beyond — we also offer immersive  Morocco itineraries .

A relief in Valley of the Kings, Luxor, Egypt © Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

Egypt in 20 days/3 weeks 

Three weeks in Egypt gives you greater freedom, and tremendous opportunities to truly immerse yourself in the country’s diverse experiences.  

Of course, you could also cross a few borders to also experience Jordan and Morocco, visiting some of the top attractions outlined above. 

Back in Egypt, rather than try to pack in too much into your three weeks, consider touring the top ancient attractions before resting up by the beach at the end of your trip.

If the idea of not packing in too much has piqued your interest, you could book an immersive two-week sailing cruise aboard a traditional  dahabieh ship. 

With three weeks, you'd still have time to explore some of Egypt’s cities, or discover Egypt's underwater attractions.

Ships that pass on the Nile © Shutterstock

Best time to visit

Egypt’s traditional tourist season runs from late November to late February. That said, in recent years Luxor and Aswan have only really been busy with tourists during the peak months of December and January.

Note that while the Nile Valley is balmy throughout this winter season, Cairo can be overcast and chilly.

Want more more detail ? Read up on when to go to Egypt .

Visa regulations for US and UK visitors

All travellers entering Egypt must have a passport valid for at least six months and a valid visa.  

For most visitors, including nationals of the UK, the European Union and the United States, it's easiest — and cheapest — to get a tourist visa at the point of arrival.

They can be obtained from Cairo International Airport, Luxor Airport, Aswan Airport, Hurghada Airport, Sharm El Sheikh and Alexandria Port.

The fee can only be paid in cash. If you have currencies other than US dollars, bank kiosks will exchange your money. Alternatively, you can apply for an e-Visa .

Extension of stay

Visas can be renewed at the Mugama’a — Cairo’s massive central administrative building on Midanat-Tahrir.

Orman Garden, Cairo © Shutterstock

Safety and security tips for travellers

Petty theft in Egypt is generally very rare, but because of variable economic reforms over the years that have created hardship, muggings and hotel and vehicle theft occasionally occur.  

So, use common sense. Keep your passport and valuables hidden, use hotel safes, and beware of pickpockets and bag snatchers.  

While security is tight at places visited by foreigners, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) currently advises against all travel to the Governorate of North Sinai and within 20km of the Egyptian and Libyan border.  

The FCDO also advises against all but essential travel to several places that have long been on travellers routes e.g. the oasis town of Siwa. So, be sure to check  current advice  before planning your trip,

Want more info to help you plan? Take a look at our guide to the best tours in Egypt , or talk to our local Egypt experts to help you curate your ideal itinerary.

• History Culture Heritage
• Where to Stay
• See & Do
• Travel Advice
• Where to stay
• Travel Tips

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Find even more inspiration here

Ready to travel and discover jordan, get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• South Korea
• United Arab Emirates
• New Zealand
• Travel Tips
• travel resources
• Get In Touch
• Start A Blog

• Destinations

Everything You Need To Know About Egypt: The Ultimate Egypt Itinerary for 7, 10, or 12 Days

• March 15, 2024
• 26 minute read

Psst, FYI – this post may contain affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission (at absolutely no extra cost to you) and ads keep this blog free for you to enjoy. Thanks for supporting the free content on this site (and for sponsoring more doggy treats for little Albus!)

Egypt, oh Egypt. I’ve written this intro in my head probably over 50 times because Egypt really left me feeling some type of way. After traveling to nearly 50 countries, I’ve always returned home feeling refreshed and so in love with a new country; but that just wasn’t the case for Egypt. It’s a country so beautiful and charming, but fell a little short of perfect to say the least.

I felt my safety and security threatened, up to the point I even had to pull out Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs to figure out where I was at. Lol, true story. With that being said, I know that traveling isn’t always perfect. Traveling is about seeing this beautiful but messed-up world we live in, but that includes both the good and the bad (and that’s a story for another day). Still, I invite you to see Egypt with your own eyes. I will leave my own personal thoughts for another blog post, but today I will just be sharing the itinerary I used for my own trip so you can plan your own.

Fresh off the plane, I’m ready to dive into my full Egypt itinerary. The 12 days I spent in Egypt really took me out of my comfort zone, but allowed me to really appreciate what I’ve been blessed with. This post will break down my journey through the country day by day and give you some tips on how to plan your own Egypt itinerary based on your interests and how much time you have. So without further ado, let’s begin!

Planning a trip to Egypt?

Read my in-depth budget guide and find out How Much It Costs to Visit Egypt in 2024 .

If you are booking your trip to Egypt , here’s a tldr of some of the top tours, hotels, and more! 🎟️ Top Experiences and Tours in Egypt: Giza Pyramids and Sphinx: Half-Day Private Tour From Hurghada: Luxor Valley of the Kings Full-Day Trip From Cairo: Nile River Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment Cairo: White Desert and Bahariya Oasis Private Day Tour 🛌 Top Hotels in Cairo: Marriot Mena House (best view of the Pyramids!) Cairo Pyramids Hotel If you are booking your trip to Egypt , here’s a tldr of some of the top tours, hotels, and more! 🎟️ Top Experiences and Tours in Egypt: Giza Pyramids and Sphinx: Half-Day Private Tour From Hurghada: Luxor Valley of the Kings Full-Day Trip From Cairo: Nile River Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment Cairo: White Desert and Bahariya Oasis Private Day Tour 🛌 Top Hotels in Cairo: Marriot Mena House (best view of the Pyramids!) Cairo Pyramids Hotel (view of the Pyramids on a budget) Steinberger Hotel El Tahrir Cairo (right in the heart of Cairo)

• 1 Where is Egypt?
• 2 How do I get to Egypt?
• 3 How do you get around Egypt?
• 4 Is Egypt safe?
• 5 What’s the best month to visit Egypt?
• 6 How many days do you need in Egypt?
• 7 Do you need a visa in Egypt?
• 8 Can you go to Egypt without a tour?
• 9 Money in Egypt
• 10 SIM Cards in Egypt
• 11 Drinking water in Egypt
• 12 The Ultimate Egypt Itinerary
• 13 2 Days in Cairo
• 14 3 Days in Luxor
• 15 2 Days in Aswan
• 16 Nile Cruise: Worth it or not?
• 17 MY TOP TRAVEL TIPS & RESOURCES

Where is Egypt?

Okay, I’ll admit – prior to this, I always thought Egypt was in the Middle East. But Egypt is actually located at the northeastern edge of the African continent, bordering countries like Israel, Sudan, and Libya with the Mediterranean Sea to its North and the Red Sea to its East. Egypt is often combined on a trip with Jordan & Israel as they’re all very close to each other.

How do I get to Egypt?

Probably the best and only way to get to Egypt is via flight . The main international airport you’ll fly into in Egypt is the  Cairo International Airport (airport code: CAI). Egypt is well served by international airlines that fly direct from around the world. You can fly to Cairo from most major international airports throughout the world including two US airports: New York-JFK and Washington-Dulles. Other major cities to reach Cairo include London, Paris, Frankfurt, Dubai, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Toronto.

If you’re coming from Europe, you can also fly direct to the Red Sea coastal airports like Sharm Al Sheikh Airport, Hurghada International Airport , and Luxor International Airport.

There are currently no train or ferry routes to Egypt.

How do you get around Egypt?

Most of Egypt’s landscape is still desert, and roads aren’t the best, but the main cities are still relatively well-connected. There are a few ways to move around Egypt: by car, by flight, by train, or by cruise.

Distances between most cities in Egypt are rather long – the trip from Cairo to Luxor takes about 8 hours, without factoring in delays from police blocks (yes, there are many) and traffic delays – so driving around everywhere isn’t advisable. We did do a 4-hour drive from Marsa Alam to Luxor that turned into a 6-hour drive because of the aforementioned delays, but that was because there were no flight options.

Otherwise, flying might be the best option. The flight from Cairo to Aswan (which is probably the southernmost part of Egypt you will be traveling to) is only 1.5 hours and should cost less than $100.

While the trains are cheap, they involve long rides and typically have extensive delays or just take way longer than scheduled (hence the delays). We were very keen to try the overnight sleeper train from Aswan to Cairo, but were strongly discouraged by our tour organizers, and were warned that delays could take up to 5 hours which would completely throw off your plans, especially if you’re on a tight schedule.

Another option which is also my favorite is to cruise down the Nile River . Cruises operate between Luxor and Aswan and usually take 3 to 4 nights, depending on your schedule. I will share more about this in detail later on.

Is Egypt safe?

This may be the #1 question I’ve come across when doing my research. YouTube is littered with videos warning travelers about the scams in Egypt, which almost got me canceling my own trip.

After returning from Egypt and having my own experience, I can answer with a rather weak yes? (with a question mark and a wince). Besides getting thrown a rock at in Edfu and getting groped while walking a quiet street in Aswan (with my family around!), I guess I can’t say anything major happened. I felt safe at most tourist attractions as we always had a guide with us, and it was usually packed with other tourists. But I personally would not walk around the streets of Egypt by myself.

Egypt’s crime rates are low and you may feel more annoyed than unsafe – the most annoying being pesky street hustlers trying to get every dime out of you. The kids on the street are not afraid to come up to you and poke your arm while begging for money.

Although you’re less likely to experience petty crime like pickpocketing in Egypt than you are in places like France, you’re more likely to experience harassment and scams in Egypt, especially if you’re a woman. If you’re a female traveler, I highly recommend having at least a guide with you at all times. I personally would not travel around Egypt all by myself.

All in all, Egypt is a relatively safe place to visit, as long as you keep your wits about yourself and adhere to the local cultural customs. I’ll be writing about my own personal experience in Egypt in another post soon.

What’s the best month to visit Egypt?

Because Egypt is mostly desert, Egypt in the Summer months can get rather unbearable as temperatures soar to 36 ° C (96 ° F). Especially when you are visiting tombs deep in the ground, it can get extremely hot and stuffy. We visited in Winter, and even then, came out sweating as we emerged from the tombs. I could not imagine how much worse it would be in the summer months.

The best time to visit Egypt is during winter from October to April, when temperatures are lower. The busiest and most popular time for Egypt is between December and January when the weather is much more pleasant, but attractions can get very busy, and prices for accommodation and airfare may be more pricey.

March, April, and September are also good months to travel to Egypt if you plan to avoid the crowd. The daytime weather can be quite pleasant and it’s the best time to enjoy water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming.

We visited in January and found the weather to be very pleasant all around. Daytime temperatures hovered around a very pleasant 22 ° C (71 ° F), and dropped to about 8 ° C (46 ° F) in the early mornings. We could even go scuba diving where the water temperature was around 22 ° C (71 ° F). We also spent a night in the White Desert where the coldest point was 5 ° C (41 ° F).

How many days do you need in Egypt?

The minimum amount of time I would recommend in Egypt is 7 days and is ideal for seeing most of Egypt’s highlights like Cairo, Aswan, and Luxor. If you have more time to spare, I would definitely recommend spending more time exploring other sides of Egypt like the coastal cities (Hurghada, Marsa Alam, Sharm Al Sheikh), experiencing the White Desert, and so much more. Here’s a quick rundown of the minimum amount of time needed in each city:

• Cairo/Giza – 2 days
• Luxor – 2 days
• Aswan – 2 days

We spent 12 days and got to see much more than just temples and tombs, and were also able to travel at a leisurely pace without feeling too overwhelmed.

Do you need a visa in Egypt?

Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Egypt’s international airports. If you prefer to skip the airport queues and dive straight into exploring, you can apply for your visa online seven days in advance via  the Egyptian Government’s official e-Visa portal . All you have to do is fill out the online application form and pay. 

Citizens of Bahrain, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Macau, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates can enter Egypt visa-free for up to 90 days. Citizens of Malaysia can enter for up to 14 days. 

Getting an Egyptian visa requires heading to your local embassy or consulate and applying in person for some nationalities. Those countries include: Afghanistan, Algeria, Bangladesh, Burundi, Chad, Comoros, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Kosovo, Lebanon, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Moldova, Morocco, Myanmar, Niger, Nigeria, Tunisia, Pakistan, Palestine, Philippines, Rwanda, Sierra Leone and Somalia. The visa process may take several weeks.

Can you go to Egypt without a tour?

I personally dislike going on organized tours as I prefer to have flexibility in choosing where to go and when. But halfway through planning my own self-guided Egypt itinerary, I gathered that Egypt wasn’t going to be such an easy feat to conquer on my own. The numerous videos on YouTube warning about scammers all around Egypt’s top attractions were enough to scare me into almost canceling my trip altogether. So the best advice I got was to have a personal guide with us at all times, in hopes that these hustlers would leave us alone.

I did not want to be herded around like sheep, so I handed my itinerary over to a tour organizer to fill in the blanks for me, especially organizing transfers in between cities. This way, I was able to tailor my itinerary to my interests while still having the benefits of a tour guide. Besides, Egypt is so steeped in history that visiting these tombs and temples without an Egyptologist to explain the history and significance of these places would be rather meaningless. So instead of hiring these guides separately at each location, I engaged a tour organizer to arrange all this for me.

However, my experience with hiring a tour organizer was not a smooth one. I will detail my experience in another blog post.

Money in Egypt

Egypt uses the  Egyptian Pound , abbreviated LE. There are coins and banknotes, but banknotes are much more common. Coins come in denominations of 25p, 50p, and 1LE. There is a 1LE coin that comes with the face of the Sphinx, which makes for a fantastic souvenir! Banknotes are also available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 LE. However, it’s a good idea to have a change for smaller notes especially if you want to bargain hard in the market!

As tourism is Egypt’s #1 income source, it’s not uncommon for vendors to accept USD as well. We used USD and LE interchangeably. In coastal cities like Marsa Alam, we found that EUR was widely used, as most travelers that fly into the coastal cities come from Europe.

SIM Cards in Egypt

SIM cards are cheap and easy to find in Egypt. The easiest way is to pick one up at the airport. Once you exit the bag collection area, you’ll find three booths to choose from: Vodafone, Orange, and Etisalat.

I went with Orange as they seemed to have the best deal at the time. I paid 210 LE ($11) for 27GB of data, with unlimited Whatsapp and Facebook. Coverage was great even in the desert but was spotty along some stretches on the highway, but this was to be expected. I almost entirely relied on data during this trip as WiFi was spotty at the places we stayed at, and there was no WiFi on the Nile Cruise . But 27GB was more than enough for my 12-day trip.

Alternatively, if you don’t want the hassle of changing SIM cards, you can  download the Airalo app , purchase a package, and get connected instantly! This is my favorite way to stay connected as it saves all the hassle of buying a SIM card and messing about with these tiny SIMs. PLUS, you can purchase the package in advance and get connected instantly even when you’re still on the plane!  Find out more about Airalo.

Drinking water in Egypt

The tap water in Egypt isn’t safe to drink, so you’ll need to ensure you’re always drinking filtered or bottled water. Bottled water is readily available, and many of our accommodations had either bottled water or filtered water that was easily accessible, however, that adds up to a lot of plastic waste!

The amount of plastic waste we incurred every day was eye-watering, and so when I got back, I found these filtered water bottles for travel that provides clean drinking water anywhere on earth. I’m definitely getting one of these before my next trip!

The Ultimate Egypt Itinerary

As I mentioned earlier, the minimum number of days I would suggest for a trip to Egypt is 7 days. But if you have more time to spare, I definitely recommend doing a 12-day trip, that will allow you to see the many aspects of Egypt, not just the pyramids. Regardless of how much time you have, I highly recommend still taking the cruise down the Nile River . It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it’s also the most convenient way to travel. However, if you would prefer not to, I will provide transfer options between cities.

Without further ado, here we go!

7-Day Egypt Itinerary

Let’s start with a 7-day Egypt Itinerary. With 7 days in Egypt, you can visit the main highlights Egypt has to offer: Cairo, Aswan, and Luxor. Most international flights come in and out of Cairo, so I suggest starting your 7-day Egypt itinerary in the capital city.

DAY 1 – 2: CAIRO / GIZA

• Visit all the pyramids in Giza, Saqqara, and Dahshur
• Visit the Egyptian Museum, the Citadel of Saladin, and Khan El-Khalili market.

DAY 3 – 4: LUXOR

• Fly to Luxor and board the Nile River cruise
• Explore Karnak Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Luxor Temple, and the Temple of Hatshepsut.
• Take a hot air balloon ride and watch the sunrise over the Valley of the Kings

DAY 5 – 7: ASWAN

• Visit the Temple of Philae, Abu Simbel, Temple of Kom Ombo, and the Temple of Horus at Edfu
• Fly back home via Cairo

10-Day Egypt Itinerary

If you have 10 days in Egypt, you can still stick to the 7-day itinerary above and add another city of your choice, depending on whether you’d prefer more history , want to soak up some sun in the Red Sea or go camping in the desert . Here are a few options:

10-Day Egypt Itinerary Option 1: History

If you’re a huge history buff, I recommend spending some time in Alexandria , Egypt’s second largest city, just 3 hours north of Cairo. During the Hellenistic period, it was home to a lighthouse ranking among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World as well as a storied library. It’s also where Cleopatra lived during her time, so you’ll get to learn more about her here. There’s also a beach here, and you have diving options though not the best in Egypt.

DAY 3 – 4: ALEXANDRIA

• Travel by car to Alexandria
• Visit Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Ruins of the Library of Alexandria, Fort Qaitbey, the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, Montazah Palace, and walk the Alexandria Corniche
• Soak up the sun at Mamoura Beach or go scuba diving at the most popular dive site in the area in Cleopatra’s Underwater City which is full of sphinx statues and Roman columns.

DAY 5 – 6: LUXOR

Day 7 – 10: aswan, 10-day egypt itinerary option 2: snorkeling or scuba diving.

Egypt has some of the best scuba diving spots in the world, so if you’re a scuba diver, I highly recommend not missing out on this one! There are so many diving spots to choose from that offer a variety of different experiences. Even if you’re not a diver, the corals in the Red Sea are especially beautiful and can be enjoyed with some snorkeling.

DAY 3 – 4: PICK A BEACH LOCATION

There are so many beach locations dotting the Red Sea, I had a hard time picking just one. But here is a short summary to help you decide. To save time, I would suggest flying to any of these cities.

• Marsa Alam : this is the one we ended up going to. We chose this because it was one of the best spots for dugong (sea cow) sightings, and dugongs are one of my favorite marine animals! It’s also closer in proximity to Luxor, and is just a 1-hour flight from Cairo. However, there is really nothing else to do here besides snorkeling or scuba diving. Popular diving spots include: Elphinstone, one of the world’s most exciting diving spots, featuring wonderful drift dives along deep steep walls, is one for the thrillseekers. Famous for its exhilarating drift dives, abundance of sharks, and unspoiled reef teaming with life, Elphinstone is quite rightly regarded as one of the best sites in the world.
• Sharm El Sheikh: is a resort town with much more to do than Marsa Alam, so it is incredibly popular among vacationers and divers. It’s perfect if not everyone in your travel group are divers, and want to enjoy some land activities too. However, Sharm El Sheikh is a little further from Luxor and Aswan, and might require more travel time. Popular diving spots include : SS Thistlegorm, one of the best wreck dives in the world! The SS Thistlegorm is a former cargo sunk in 1941 during WWII, and has so much to explore! It still contains 2 locomotives, 2 tanks, Motorbikes, riffles and so much more.
• Hurghada: is a great place for wreck enthusiasts and is also suitable for beginners divers because of its calm clear water. Popular diving spots include : wreck dives and liveaboards. SS Thistlegorm can also be reached from here.
• Travel to Luxor by flight or car and board the Nile River cruise

10-Day Egypt Itinerary Option 3: White Desert

One of my favorite and most memorable experiences in Egypt was my desert camping experience. I’m not sure if anything else compares to falling asleep under the starry sky and waking up to the sun peaking above the desert horizon.

DAY 3 – 4: WHITE AND BLACK DESERT

• Marvel at the effects of Mother Nature at the Black Desert, Crystal Mountains and finally set up camp under the stars at the White Desert
• Go sandboarding and visit the hot springs

12-Day Egypt Itinerary

If you have 12 days or even 2 weeks in Egypt, you can actually combine 2 of the options I’ve outlined in the 10-day itinerary: either head to the beach, soak up more history or go camping in the desert. My personal opinion is to go for the beach and the desert to have the most wholesome experience in Egypt, and that was the itinerary I went for on my own 12-day trip.

For this 12-day Egypt itinerary, I had to shuffle up the locations a little for logistical purposes. I put the desert tour at the tail end of the trip and it was the perfect way to bookend our trip.

DAY 3 – 4: MARSA ALAM

• Fly to Marsa Alam
• Go diving or snorkeling with dugongs
• Explore the world-famous Elphinstone dive site (for advanced divers only)
• Stay at Wadi Sabarah Lodge (one of our highlights on our trip!)
• Hire a driver to Luxor and board the Nile River cruise
• Fly back to Cairo

DAY 11 – 12: WHITE AND BLACK DESERT

• Take a guided tour to the desert
• Transfer back to Cairo and fly home

2 Days in Cairo

Cairo is the ideal starting point for any Egypt itinerary because you’ll most likely be flying into Cairo Airport. Now, a lot of forums have discussed how they would skip Cairo altogether if they could because it’s a dirty, dusty city, but it’s where you’ll find the Great Pyramids of Giza!

I managed to make my Cairo and Giza trip bearable which I will share how below!

Top Things to Do in Cairo

Here’s a checklist of things to do when you’re in Cairo and Giza:

• Giza Pyramids
• Great Sphinx of Giza
• Saqqara Necropolis & the Djoser Step Pyramid
• Egyptian Museum
• Mohammad Ali Mosque
• Coptic Church Hanging Church
• Khan El-Khalili Bazaar

Day 1 – Visit the Pyramids of Giza and Saqqara Necropolis

We’ve all heard of the world-famous Great Pyramids of Giza , but did you know these are not the only pyramids in Egypt? They aren’t even the OG pyramids! The Giza complex consists of three main pyramids, with the Pyramid of Khufu being the largest in all of Egypt. It is also the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still in existence!

But the oldest pyramid in Egypt is located in Saqqara Necropolis , named the Djoser Pyramid . And not far away, you will find the Red Pyramid located in Dahshur. I recommend visiting all these pyramids in one day.

Egypt Itinerary

You’ll also get the chance to enter these pyramids, but bear in mind that not all pyramids are worth entering, as most of the remains of the pyramids have been removed and put into museums. We only entered The Pyramid of Unas at Saqqara, which according to our guide, was the only tomb worth entering (though in hindsight, I’m not sure if I can trust anything these guides say… more on this later). If I could redo it, I would probably just enter the Pyramids of Giza anyway, just for the heck of it, although there isn’t really much to see inside.

Day 2 – Explore Cairo City

There’s quite a lot to see in Cairo itself, but with such limited time, you’ll need to decide on what interests you most. But the two main highlights I would highly recommend are the Egyptian Museum –where you’ll find the largest collection of Pharaonic antiquities in the world, and Khan El-Khalili Bazaar , which is the oldest market in the middle east for Cheap Egyptian gifts. The vendors can be aggressive, and haggling is definitely required, but this is all part of the experience.

Visit the Citadel of Saladin for sweeping panoramic views of the city. It also houses the Mohammad Ali Mosque .

Where to Stay in Cairo

Now, this might be my best-kept secret in Cairo and the best decision I ever made on this trip – to stay in Zamalek . Zamalek is an island floating alongside the city of Cairo and is only a short 5-10 minute drive away. But this short distance will grant you a quiet reprieve from the noisy and dusty streets of Cairo.

The hotels in Zamalek also look a lot newer and more modern than the ones in downtown Cairo. B rowse accommodations in Zamalek here.

Alternatively, you could stay in a resort close to Giza if you’d like to wake up to the view of these magnificent wonders, but there won’t be much around the area. If you decide on staying in Giza, I recommend the Marriott Mena .

3 Days in Luxor

Luxor is the only city in Egypt where the largest number of ancient attractions is concentrated, most of which are located in the central part, so it will be much easier to find them. In Luxor, you can see all the Egyptian people’s creations: majestic temples, ancient tombs, and huge statues. Luxor has frequently been characterized as the “world’s greatest open-air museum”, as the ruins of the Egyptian temple complexes at Karnak and Luxor stand within the modern city.

How to get from Cairo to Luxor

We actually spent 2 nights in Marsa Alam between Cairo and Luxor–we took a 1-hour flight to Marsa Alam, spent 2 nights in the wonderful Wadi Sabarah Lodge , and then hired a driver to Luxor which took us 6 hours on the road. There are plenty of other options to get to Luxor directly from Cairo.

Flight – The flight from Cairo to Luxor is only about an hour and usually costs less than $100.

Train – The train between Cairo and Luxor takes 9 hours, and there is the option of a day train and a night sleeper train. It’s slightly too long for a day trip and it takes up all your sightseeing hours, and it’s too short for a night of good sleep! Plus, the price is almost the same price as the flight and is much quicker and more convenient.

Things to Do in Luxor

Luxor is conveniently split down the middle by a river, so it’s easy to split your sightseeing into two days: West Bank on the first day and East bank on the second day.

The East Bank is the location of Luxor town. This is where you will find Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple . It is where most Egyptians live and work and it is also where you will find the majority of hotels and restaurants.

The West Bank of Luxor is where the ancient Egyptians buried the dead. Each night, the sun sets on the West Bank, so this became the necropolis, the area that is filled with tombs and mortuary temples. This is where the famous Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens are.

Here’s a checklist of things to do when you’re in Luxor:

• Kom Ombo Temple
• Edfu Temple (Temple of Horus)
• Karnak Temple
• Luxor Temple
• Valley of the Kings
• Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut

Day 1 – East Bank of Luxor

Start off your Luxor tour by visiting Karnak Temple , which was once the most important religious site in Ancient Egypt, and it was the reason Thebes retained some power after the capital was relocated to Alexandria. Karnak is the second largest religious site from the ancient world, after Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

You’ve probably seen pictures of The Great Hypostle Hall, and it was a marvel to look at! There’s also a scarab statue that will supposedly grant you 7 wishes if you take 7 laps around it!

The Luxor Temple dominates the center of town in Luxor and really is what gives the city the feeling of being an “open-air museum”. Following the demise of Ancient Egyptian society, the Luxor Temple was gradually buried beneath the sand and forgotten while the city grew on top of it. Fortunately, it has been rediscovered and excavated.

The massive Ramses II statues, as well as the single obelisk, are all impressive. If this obelisk looks familiar, it’s because you’ve probably seen it (or something similar to it) before! The twin lives in Paris’ Place de la Concorde. The Egyptian government presented it to France as a gift, and it arrived in Paris in 1833. Most tour groups come in the evening so it can get quite busy, but there’s something special about seeing the large statues and columns all lit up!

Day 2 – Hot air ballooning and West Bank of Luxor

One of the most magical things you can do in Luxor is to take a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings . Unfortunately, we missed this experience as we were told the weather wasn’t good (or our tour organizers just ripped us off, I don’t even know). In any case, you’ll have an extremely early morning call, around 4am, but it’s supposed to be worth every second of sacrificed sleep!

One of the highlights of Luxor is The Valley of The Kings , where most of the great rulers of Ancient Egypt were buried. Here you’ll find intricate and extraordinary tombs, like King Tut’s tomb (where I realized my childhood dream to see his mummy in person!)!

There are 63 tombs here, and archeologists are still working every day to uncover new ones, but your entrance ticket only covers 3. You’ll need to purchase extra tickets to visit any of the other tombs, these include Tutankhamun, Ramses V/VI, and Seti I.

Then, proceed to the Temple of Hatshepsut . (I still struggle to spell and say her name, but our guide told us to just remember ‘Hot Chicken Soup’!). Hatshepsut was the first female Pharaoh of Egypt, and she built the temple to commemorate her achievements and her reign. I was especially intrigued by the story behind Hatshepsut’s rise to power and how she had to try to appear more masculine to gain power. Loving the girl power vibes here!

Day 3 – Kom Ombo Temple, Edfu and Esna

From Luxor to Aswan, there are 3 more important sights you can visit: Kom Ombo Temple, Temple of Horus at Edfu, and Esna. These can be easily done in a day either by car or by Nile cruise . If you opt for the cruise, these will most probably be already included stops on your itinerary. To do the drive, it should take you about 10 hours, which includes all stops and about 6 hours of driving time.

The Temple of Kom Ombo is a double temple that was constructed for two sets of gods. One half of the complex is dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile-headed god who is associated with the fertility of the land along the Nile River. The other half is dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god. Next to the Temple of Kom Ombo is the Crocodile Museum, where you can see the mummies of different-sized crocodiles that were discovered around the temple (it is estimated that 300 crocodile mummies were discovered in this area). I found this very interesting!

The Temple of Horus at Edfu is the largest temple dedicated to the god Horus. This is a magnificent temple that is still in excellent condition, despite being over 2,000 years old (although it is relatively young by Egyptian standards). The first pylon is in almost perfect condition and you really get an idea of how these temples looked when they were first constructed. Edfu was a very dusty town, and it felt like we were transported back to the 1930’s with mostly horse cabriolets on the streets. I personally did not like this town at all.

If you’re traveling via cruise, you will be passing the Esna Lock which is an engineering masterpiece built to avoid the gap caused by the waterfalls. It’s quite an interesting feat!

Where to Stay in Luxor

We stayed on the cruise , which I found was the most convenient option instead of having to move hotels almost every night. But if you’re not interested in taking the cruise, you can also easily break up the journey and spend two nights in Luxor .

The biggest debate is whether to stay on the East Bank or the West Bank. Most tourist hotels are on the East Bank, and that’s where Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple are located. There’s a plethora of restaurants and shops here, but it’s also very much tourist-priced.

The West Bank is less common with tourists and has a few smaller guest houses and apartment-style hotels. It’s quieter and the restaurants are a bit cheaper as they see fewer tourists. The Valley of the Kings is located on the West Bank.

2 Days in Aswan

The 2 days in Aswan are actually one day in Aswan and one day in Abu Simbel. Obviously, you could spend a LOT more than a day in Aswan, but if you hustle this is all you’ll need. And after a while, the sights do get slightly repetitive.

How to get from Luxor to Aswan

There are a few ways to get between these two cities with the Nile Cruise being a popular choice (and is the option we chose).

Cruise – I found this to be the most convenient way to travel between the two cities because you won’t need to keep moving from hotel to hotel. It was really convenient for us to disembark, see the sights and return to the boat. There are options ranging from 3 nights to 7 nights depending on your schedule. It’s also much easier to see the sights in between as I mentioned above, namely Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Esna.

Car – You could also hire a private driver to take you on a day trip which includes the stops I mentioned along the way.

Train – There is a train that connects the two cities and only takes 3 hours. It’s cheap, efficient, and relatively comfortable. But you’ll have to forego Edfu and Kom Ombo in between.

Things to Do in Aswan

Here’s a checklist of things to do when you’re in Aswan:

• Unfinished Obelisk
• Philae Temple
• Abu Simbel Temples
• Felucca Sailing (traditional Nile sailing boat)
• Visit a Nubian Village

Day 1 – Philae Temple and Nubian Village

Philae Temple is very important since it is one of the last places where the ancient Egyptian religion survived after the arrival of Christianity until 550 A.D .  The first Christians transformed the temple into a church where they disfigured many of the statues of the ancient gods and destroyed their images.

This temple was almost lost in floods when the Aswan Dam was built, and was moved piece by piece which is another engineering marvel.

In the afternoon, take a small boat ride down the smaller passageways of the Nile River to find the colorful houses of the Nubian Village . Here you can visit a traditional Nubian home and learn about their way of life, and walk around the village shopping for spices and souvenirs.

Day 2 – Day trip to Abu Simbel

The twin temples of Abu Simbel require the most effort to visit of any famous structure in Egypt, but it is well worth it. Built by Ramses II for himself and his wife Nefartari, these two massive temples were cut from the mountainside and relocated when the construction of the Aswan High Dam threatened their existence. The temples are not only beautiful, but they are also an engineering marvel!

Because Abu Simbel is so far from Aswan, it gets quite crowded in the morning between 8 and 11 am. I was also told that it can be crowded right when it opens at 5 am, because that is when cruise ship passengers usually arrive! The best time to visit is between 7-8 am (after the cruise ship passengers have left and before the day trippers arrive), or after 11 am (after the majority of the day trippers have left).

We arrived at Abu Simbel at 11 am and had the temple almost to ourselves!

Nile Cruise: Worth it or not?

Nile Cruises are typically between Luxor and Aswan. Some operators do sail from Cairo but are significantly longer and more expensive. The average duration of a cruise between Luxor and Aswan is 3-4 nights long. They can travel in either direction, but we started in Luxor and ended in Aswan because of our itinerary. The cruises will typically stop between Luxor and Aswan at cities like Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Esna.

I know many people would feel like they’re being herded by sheep if they join a cruise, but you actually get more flexibility than that. Your tour guide is actually independent of the cruise itself, so you won’t be on the same schedule as other people on your boat. Though, you will be in the same cities at the same time. You can request to visit certain locations at quieter times.

There seems to be a bit of confusion when it comes to which Nile Cruise to choose, and how all the details pan out but I will detail them in another blog post.

With that said, I highly recommend anyone visiting Egypt to go on a Nile Cruise . It’s relaxing and convenient, and definitely, a one-of-a-kind experience cruising down what was the longest river in the world. I had the opportunity to see the most beautiful sunsets onboard the cruise.

Liked this? Pin it!

MY TOP TRAVEL TIPS & RESOURCES

Here are my top travel tips and resources to help you save money and plan your trips effectively! If you're looking for more tips, head over to my travel tips resource page or my comprehensive guide on trip planning .

• Booking Flights: When it comes to finding great flight deals, I always start my search on Google Flights or Skyscanner . To save some cash, consider flying mid-week or on the weekends, opt for carry-on only with budget airlines, and be open to red-eye or early morning flights. Check out my in-depth guide on how I find the cheapest flights .
• Accommodations : I'm a stickler for finding the absolute best deals on my stays, so I will obsessively oscillate between a few booking sites: Booking . com (in general) and Agoda (for Asian destinations). When it comes to vacation rentals, there's Airbnb or VRBO .
• Travel Insurance : It's always a wise decision to purchase travel insurance for international trips. I can't stress this enough - it's highly recommended! For international travel insurance, I suggest considering World Nomads or SafetyWing . SafetyWing , in particular, stands out as one of the few policies that cover Covid-19. They also offer excellent monthly policies that are perfect for digital nomads and long-term travelers!
• Travel Credit Card : My go-to travel credit card for booking trips is the Wise travel card. I love that there are no foreign transaction fees, so I can pay like a local and never get any surprises at the end of my trip. You can also withdraw cash from the ATMs wherever you are. With  Wise , you are always guaranteed the best exchange rate, and I have saved  sooo  much money just by using this card. Most of the time, I get charged the exchange rate I see on Google, plus or minus a few cents.
• Tours: Most times, I prefer traveling independently but sometimes, getting a guide and a local's perspective makes the experience all the more enriching. When it comes to tour bookings, I trust Viator and GetYourGuide to provide me with excellent options. In Asia, I choose Klook as they are the biggest provider in the region. Plus, you can often get entrance tickets and discounted prices!
• Transportation : To navigate through public transit options and plan my journeys from one place to another, I rely on Rome2Rio. When it comes to rental cars, I compare rental companies and find the best deals through DiscoverCars .
• Connection : It's essential to me to have seamless connectivity wherever I go. I need it to navigate to new places, Google what's around me, and keep in touch with my loved ones. But fumbling around with multiple SIMs has always been a nightmare, which is why I choose Airalo when I travel. No more switching SIMs, just purchase a plan on your phone, on the go, anywhere, and stay connected.
• Luggage Storage : Whenever I need to check out early or take advantage of a long layover, I securely store my luggage with LuggageHero . It's a reliable service that allows me to roam around freely. As a bonus, you can use this link to enjoy your first hour of FREE luggage storage on me!
• What to Pack : I always have packing anxiety once I've left home— you know the phantom feeling that you've forgotten something even though you've checked 372836 times . So I made my own packing list and use it religiously before every trip, and by religious I mean I tick off that list at least 7 times before I zip up my bag. Check out my in-depth packing list here.

Hi! I’m Steph. You probably ended up here because just like me, you have an insatiable thirst for trotting the globe, or are just curious about travel. Get ready for brutally honest and in-depth travel guides that will be your trusty companions on global adventures. No fluff, just real talk and practical tips to make your journeys smooth. Join me as we conquer the globe, one epic destination at a time! Together, we’ll uncover hidden gems, laugh at mishaps, and create unforgettable memories. So grab your passport, pack your sense of adventure, and let’s embark on this thrilling journey!

The Ultimate DIY Tour Of Stockholm’s Subway Art (Maps included!)

• February 29, 2024

Best Cafes and Coffee Shops in Edinburgh Old Town

You may also like.

• North America

The Ultimate 3 Days in Vancouver (A Local’s Guide!)

• May 4, 2024

20+ Gossip Girl Locations in New York – Free DIY Gossip Girl Tour!

• May 1, 2024

46+ Best Things to Do in Vancouver (For First-Timers!)

• April 30, 2024

36 Best Cafes in Johor Bahru For the Serious Coffee Lover (A No-Nonsense Guide)

• April 11, 2024

Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Vancouver 2024 (map included!)

• March 21, 2024

The Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to Do in Luang Prabang, Laos

• March 18, 2024

10 comments

We had done short visits to Egypt when we cruised. And it has been on our list for a long time for an extended visit. But I must admit the thought of Egypt still has me feeling I would also be out of my comfort zone. And your weak “yes” reinforced my concern about safety. When we visited we went through several checkpoints with guards with machine guns. Not sure if that made me feel any safer? I think an organized tour would still be my choice. A great Egypt post.

100% would only recommend traveling with an organized tour. Glad you enjoyed the post!

Egypt is on my travel list. I’d echo the concerns of other on safety; this sits in the back of my mind as I think about potential solo travel locations.

Hey Sonia, Egypt definitely is not on the top of solo travel locations but I have heard of some women attempting it. You’ll just need to have your wits about you and be vigilant at all times. Also having a good guide with you at all times is important.

I love your honest opinions about safety and security. Glad you were “mostly” safe.

Thanks Jolayne – it was the first time I felt like I’d felt that way about a country and felt the need to warn fellow travelers about it. Egypt is a beautiful country but certainly not for everyone!

I was planning on an Egypt trip long ago, but my plans were changed. You’re itinerary looks great so I will use it as a basis for my future trip.

Thanks Rhonda! Glad it was of help to you 🙂

Loved your photos of Luxor – been there back in 2018 on a day trip from Hurghada and loved it!

Thanks Tigrest! xx Agreed – Luxor was breathtaking!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Input your search keywords and press Enter.

Discover more from The Atlas Edit.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

No products in the cart.

How Many Days Are Enough To See Egypt? The Ultimate Guide for Travelers

Egypt’s wonders: an ideal itinerary duration guide.

Egypt, the land of Pharaohs, pyramids, and unparalleled history, is a destination that captivates the imagination of travelers worldwide. But how many days are enough to see Egypt? This guide aims to answer that question comprehensively, helping you plan a trip that covers all the bases.

One Nation Travel provides a rich variety of Egypt tour packages . We highly recommend exploring these tours, each carefully crafted to deliver you an unforgettable Egyptian journey.

A General Overview

To get a comprehensive and immersive experience of what Egypt has to offer, we recommend a minimum of 10 to 12 days. This gives you ample time to visit the key attractions without feeling rushed and also allows for some much-needed downtime in between.

Breaking It Down

The pyramids and cairo.

You should plan to spend at least 2-3 days in Cairo, the heart and soul of Egypt. This includes exploring the iconic Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, and the bustling bazaars of Khan el-Khalili. You’ll want a full day for the pyramids alone, with another day or two for the other sights.

Luxor and Aswan

Next, dedicate 3-4 days to Luxor and Aswan, the gateway to Egypt’s rich ancient history. Luxor houses the legendary Valley of the Kings and Queens, and the stunning Karnak and Luxor temples. Aswan, with its tranquil river setting, is home to the Aswan Dam and Philae Temple. A leisurely cruise on the Nile, taking you from Luxor to Aswan or vice versa, is an experience not to be missed.

The Mediterranean city of Alexandria deserves at least a day of your itinerary. Here, you’ll explore the Catacombs, Pompey’s Pillar, and the famous Alexandria Library.

The Red Sea

For relaxation and water activities like snorkeling and diving, head to the Red Sea resorts of Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh. Allocate 2-3 days for this portion of the trip to unwind and enjoy the beautiful marine life.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. is egypt safe for tourists.

Egypt is generally safe for tourists, but as with any travel destination, it’s important to stay vigilant and adhere to standard safety precautions. Avoid deserted areas late at night, keep an eye on your belongings, and respect local customs and traditions.

2. What is the best time to visit Egypt?

The best time to visit Egypt is during the cooler months between October and April. The temperatures are pleasant, making sightseeing a more comfortable experience.

3. Do I need a visa to visit Egypt?

Most foreign visitors require a visa to enter Egypt. However, the requirements can vary based on your nationality. It’s always best to check the current visa policies before planning your trip.

4. What is the local currency in Egypt?

The local currency in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and major tourist spots, but it’s always handy to carry some cash for smaller vendors or in remote locations.

5. What’s the food like in Egypt?

Egyptian cuisine is flavorful and diverse, featuring dishes like koshari (a mixture of lentils, rice, pasta, and tomato sauce), ful medames (cooked fava beans), and various meat dishes. Don’t forget to try local sweets like baklava and kunafa.

Top Experiences & Tours in Egypt

When planning your Egyptian adventure, consider these top experiences and tours that offer a unique perspective on the country’s ancient wonders and modern delights:

• Nile River Cruise : A multi-day cruise between Luxor and Aswan, visiting temples and ancient sites.
• Hot Air Balloon Ride in Luxor: Experience breathtaking views of the Nile Valley at sunrise.
• Snorkeling in the Red Sea: Explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
• Exploring the Western Desert: Join a safari and camp under the stars in one of Egypt’s most stunning landscapes.

Echoes of Eternity: Wrapping Up Your Egyptian Adventure

As your journey through Egypt comes to a close, you carry with you not just souvenirs, but also the echoes of eternity, resonating from the ancient stones and whispered by the winds across the desert sands. Egypt’s enchanting tales and monumental legacies are sure to leave a lasting impression, urging you to return.

Top 3 Recommended Egypt Tour Packages

Similar Posts

How Much Does a 7-Day Trip to Egypt Cost?

Egypt is a nation brimming with historical and cultural richness, boasting famous attractions like the Sphinx and Great Pyramids, vibrant metropolises such as Cairo and Alexandria, and a stunning Red Sea coastline.

What are the top tourist attractions in Egypt?

Explore Egypt’s must-see sights, including the iconic Pyramids of Giza and Luxor’s majestic temples. Delve into ancient marvels and experience an unforgettable adventure.

How to Plan a Trip to Egypt: Essential Travel Tips

Egypt, the land of pharaohs, pyramids, and the Nile, has been captivating travelers for centuries. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure junkie, or someone who just wants to relax by the Red Sea, Egypt has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan your first trip to Egypt.

The Ultimate Egypt 8-Day Itinerary: Explore Ancient Wonders

Embark on an 8-day journey through Egypt’s majestic landmarks, from the Great Pyramids to the temples of Luxor, blending ancient history with vibrant culture in a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

How to Spend Three Days in Cairo: An Unforgettable Journey

Maximize your Cairo journey with the best tour agencies. Learn how to spend 3 unforgettable days exploring historic and modern Cairo.

The Pyramids of Giza: Architectural Marvels of the Ancient World

Embark on an interstellar journey to the Pyramids of Giza on Saturn with our comprehensive guide. Discover the best times to visit, exploration tips, and essential space travel advice.

START PLANNING YOUR TRIP

Our team of experts have a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you plan your adventure of a lifetime.

• Things To Do
• Ancient Egypt
• Area Guides
• General Information

Ideal Egypt Trip Duration: How Many Days Are Enough

When planning a trip to Egypt, one of the common questions is how many days are enough to see this fascinating country. The ideal trip duration depends on various factors, such as the purpose of travel, places you wish to visit, and how you are arriving in Egypt.

Exploring Egypt’s incredible history, ancient treasures, and vibrant culture can be an enriching experience. To make the most of your visit, it’s important to consider the best duration for your Egypt trip.

Whether you are a leisure traveler, an adventure enthusiast, or a history buff, finding the optimal time to explore Egypt will ensure you don’t miss out on its captivating attractions.

Planning your Egypt trip starts with understanding how many days to allocate for Egypt sightseeing. This will help you create a well-balanced itinerary that covers the duration required to experience Egypt’s highlights.

Stay tuned as we explore different trip durations for various types of travelers and provide recommendations to help you plan your ultimate Egypt adventure.

Table of Contents

Short Trips and Add-On Visits

If you are already visiting neighboring countries like Turkey, Jordan, the Emirates, or Israel, and want to add Egypt to your itinerary, a shorter stay can be sufficient. A two-day trip to Cairo allows you to explore the Pyramids and the Egyptian Museum. To incorporate Luxor, add an extra day or two. In total, a short trip to Egypt as an add-on could range from 2 to 4 days.

When planning short trips in Egypt, prioritize the must-see attractions and choose quick Egypt itineraries that include Cairo and Luxor. These two cities offer a wealth of historical and cultural highlights that can be experienced in a few days.

Egypt Highlights in a Few Days

• Cairo: Start your trip in the capital city and visit the iconic Pyramids of Giza. Explore the ancient tombs and temples at the Saqqara Necropolis. Don’t miss the chance to marvel at the collections of ancient artifacts in the Egyptian Museum.
• Luxor: Take a short flight or a scenic train ride to Luxor. Immerse yourself in the world of pharaohs as you explore the vast Karnak Temple complex and the stunning Valley of the Kings. A visit to the majestic Luxor Temple is also highly recommended.

These destinations can be seamlessly combined into a short trip, allowing you to witness the wonders of Egypt in a limited time.

Adding on Destinations in Egypt

If you have more than a few days to spare, consider adding other destinations in Egypt to make your trip even more memorable. Here are a few options:

Adding these destinations to your Egypt itinerary will enrich your experience and allow you to explore different facets of this captivating country.

Flying from North America to Egypt

If you are flying all the way from North America specifically to visit Egypt, it is advisable to stay longer to make the trip worthwhile. A minimum of 4 to 6 days is recommended for overseas travelers to experience the main highlights of Egypt. This duration allows enough time to explore Cairo, Luxor, and even include a day trip to Alexandria.

Recommended Duration for Overseas Travelers

Traveling to Egypt from North America involves long-haul trips, which means it’s best to allocate a sufficient amount of time to fully enjoy your visit. With a minimum of 4 to 6 days, you can explore the iconic cities of Cairo and Luxor, as well as take a day trip to Alexandria. This duration ensures that you have ample opportunity to admire the wonders of ancient Egypt and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the country.

Egypt Trip Duration from North America

The optimal time for an Egypt visit from the United States varies depending on factors such as flight duration, jet lag recovery, and personal preferences. However, a trip duration of 4 to 6 days is generally recommended to allow for a fulfilling experience. This timeframe allows you to visit major attractions, such as the Giza Pyramids, the Egyptian Museum, the Valley of the Kings, and the Karnak Temple Complex.

Optimal Time for Egypt Visit from the United States

When planning your Egypt trip from the United States, it’s essential to consider the optimal time for your visit. The best seasons to explore Egypt are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), as the weather is milder and more conducive to outdoor activities. By choosing to travel during these periods, you can make the most of your time in Egypt and enjoy comfortable temperatures for sightseeing.

Extended Itineraries and Additional Destinations

For travelers with more time, extending the itinerary becomes an option. Egypt offers a wealth of attractions beyond Cairo and Luxor. If you have 7 to 8 days, you can consider adding a visit to the Red Sea towns like Sharm el Sheikh or Hurghada. Aswan and a trip to Abu Simbel are also popular additions to explore the southern part of Egypt. For a unique experience, consider visiting oases like Fayoum, Dakhla, Kharga, or Siwa.

If you’re seeking a beach getaway, the Red Sea towns of Sharm el Sheikh or Hurghada are perfect choices. Experience crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a range of water sports and activities.

A trip to Aswan and Abu Simbel allows you to delve deeper into the rich cultural heritage of southern Egypt. Marvel at the Temples of Abu Simbel and explore the ancient sites along the banks of the Nile.

To truly immerse yourself in the unique landscape of Egypt, venture into its oases. Fayoum, Dakhla, Kharga, and Siwa offer breathtaking natural beauty, historical sites, and opportunities to experience Bedouin hospitality.

Extended Itinerary Example

If you have 7 to 8 days, here’s an example of an extended Egypt itinerary:

This itinerary allows you to experience the highlights of Cairo and Luxor, explore the southern attractions of Aswan and Abu Simbel, and unwind on the beautiful shores of the Red Sea. It combines historical and cultural exploration with relaxation and natural beauty.

Exploring Egypt’s Highlights in a Limited Time

If you have limited time but still want to experience the highlights of Egypt, there are a few options that allow you to make the most of your visit. One option is to focus your sightseeing on Cairo and Giza, which can be done in a day. Another option is to consider a Nile cruise tour, which covers key attractions along the river.

Visiting Cairo and Giza in One Day

Cairo, Egypt’s bustling capital, is home to some of the country’s most iconic landmarks. Start your day by exploring the Giza Plateau, where you’ll find the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx. Marvel at the architectural wonders and learn about the ancient Egyptian civilization that created them.

Afterwards, head to the Egyptian Museum in Cairo to delve into Egypt’s rich history and see world-renowned artifacts like the treasures of Tutankhamun. Take your time to explore the museum’s vast collection and discover the fascinating stories behind each exhibit.

Although visiting Cairo and Giza in a day requires efficient planning and time management, it provides a glimpse into the country’s ancient past and architectural wonders.

Nile Cruise Tour Options

If you prefer a more relaxed and comprehensive experience, a Nile cruise tour is an excellent choice. These tours typically cover key attractions along the Nile River, allowing you to explore multiple cities and historical sites in one trip.

One popular Nile cruise route starts from Luxor, known as the “open-air museum,” where you can visit the temples of Karnak and Luxor, the Valley of the Kings, and the Temple of Hatshepsut. As the cruise continues, you’ll sail to Aswan, where you can explore the magnificent Philae Temple and the unfinished Obelisk.

During the cruise, you can relax on the deck and enjoy the picturesque views of the Nile River, passing by lush landscapes and traditional villages. The journey provides a unique perspective on Egypt’s history and culture, as well as ample time to unwind and savor the beauty of the river.

Whether you choose to visit Cairo and Giza in a day or opt for a Nile cruise tour, both options allow you to maximize your time and experience the highlights of Egypt within a limited timeframe.

Customizing Your Trip Duration

When planning your Egypt trip, it’s essential to customize the duration based on your personal preferences and interests. Every traveler is unique, and what may be the ideal length of stay for one person may not be the same for another. Customization allows you to personalize your Egypt itinerary and adjust your visit to suit your individual preferences.

Some travelers may be satisfied with a shorter visit, focusing on the must-see attractions and main highlights of Egypt. This allows for a concentrated experience of the country’s iconic landmarks and cultural treasures, such as the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum. By customizing your trip duration, you can make the most of your limited time and still immerse yourself in the essence of Egypt.

On the other hand, if you have more time available, you may want to explore additional regions and engage in specific activities that align with your interests. For example, if you’re a scuba diving enthusiast, you might consider extending your stay to enjoy the pristine waters of the Red Sea and discover its vibrant marine life. With customization, you can allocate enough time to indulge in your preferred activities and make your Egypt experience truly memorable.

Whether you prefer a shorter visit or an extended stay, the key is to adjust your trip duration according to what resonates with you. By personalizing your Egypt itinerary, you can create a travel experience that suits your individual preferences, ensuring a fulfilling and enriching adventure in this remarkable country.

Customization is the key to unlocking the full potential of your Egypt trip. By adjusting the duration to your individual preferences, you can create an itinerary that suits your needs and interests, ensuring an unforgettable journey through the wonders of Egypt.

Recommended Itineraries based on Duration

Planning a trip to Egypt and unsure about the ideal duration? Here are some sample itineraries based on different trip lengths to help you make the most of your time:

2-4 Days: Visit Cairo and the Pyramids, optionally add Luxor

If you have a short amount of time, a 2-4 day trip is still enough to experience the iconic highlights of Egypt. Start your journey in Cairo and explore the ancient wonders of the Pyramids of Giza. Marvel at the majestic Sphinx and delve into the fascinating history at the Egyptian Museum. For an extended itinerary, consider adding a visit to Luxor, where you can explore the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple.

4-6 Days: Include Cairo, Luxor, and a day trip to Alexandria

With a 4-6 day trip, you can delve deeper into the cultural treasures of Egypt. Begin your journey in Cairo and explore the Pyramids and Egyptian Museum. Then, head to Luxor to witness the grandeur of ancient temples like Luxor Temple and Hatshepsut’s Temple. In addition, take a day trip to Alexandria to discover its rich Greco-Roman history, including the stunning Bibliotheca Alexandrina and the ancient Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa.

7-8 Days: Explore Cairo, Luxor, visit the Red Sea, and consider an additional destination like Aswan

If you have 7-8 days, you can experience a well-rounded itinerary, encompassing cultural wonders and natural beauty. Begin your journey in Cairo and Luxor, visiting the famous ancient sites. Then, head to the Red Sea coastal towns like Sharm el Sheikh or Hurghada for a relaxing beach escape. Consider adding a visit to Aswan, where you can explore the beautiful Philae Temple and take a boat ride along the Nile to witness the stunning views.

10-14 Days: Comprehensive trip covering Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, possible additions of Red Sea, Sinai, or cultural visits to neighboring countries

For those with more time to spare, a 10-14 day trip allows for a comprehensive exploration of Egypt’s diverse offerings. Begin in Cairo and Luxor, then head to Aswan to explore the unique Nubian culture. Consider extending your trip with a visit to the Red Sea for snorkeling or diving adventures. Alternatively, explore the breathtaking landscapes of Sinai, including a climb up Mount Sinai or a visit to the historic St. Catherine’s Monastery. For a cultural twist, consider adding a visit to neighboring countries like Jordan to explore the legendary Petra or Israel to discover the holy sites of Jerusalem.

Tips for Optimizing Your Egypt Trip Duration and Maximizing Sightseeing

When planning your trip to Egypt, it is important to optimize your time and make the most of your visit. Whether you have a few days or a couple of weeks, follow these tips to ensure an immersive experience and efficient time management.

Prioritize the Must-See Attractions

Egypt is home to numerous iconic landmarks and historical sites. Prioritize the must-see attractions that align with your interests. The Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, and the Valley of the Kings in Luxor are some of the top highlights. By focusing on these key attractions, you can make the most of your time and create lasting memories.

Consider Guided Tours for Efficient Exploration

For efficient exploration and in-depth knowledge, consider opting for guided tours. Experienced guides can provide valuable insights, take care of logistics, and navigate through crowded areas, allowing you to maximize your sightseeing and minimize time spent on planning and logistics.

Allocate Time for Rest and Relaxation

While it’s tempting to pack your itinerary with non-stop sightseeing, it is important to allocate time for rest and relaxation. Egypt offers diverse experiences, from the bustling streets of Cairo to the serene Nile cruises. Take breaks to enjoy local cuisine, indulge in spa treatments, or simply soak in the rich cultural ambiance of this historically significant country. Balancing sightseeing with leisure time will help you rejuvenate and fully enjoy your Egyptian adventure.

By following these tips for optimizing your Egypt trip duration, managing your time effectively, and maximizing your sightseeing opportunities, you can create a memorable and enriching experience that captures the essence of this ancient land.

How many days are enough to see Egypt?

The ideal trip duration depends on various factors, such as the purpose of travel, places you wish to visit, and how you are arriving in Egypt.

What is the best duration for an Egypt visit?

For overseas travelers flying from North America specifically to visit Egypt, a minimum of 4 to 6 days is recommended to experience the main highlights.

How many days should I allocate for sightseeing in Egypt?

If you have limited time, it is possible to visit Cairo and Giza in a day or opt for a Nile cruise tour to cover key attractions along the river.

Can I add a visit to Egypt if I’m already visiting neighboring countries?

If you are already visiting neighboring countries like Turkey, Jordan, the Emirates, or Israel, a shorter stay ranging from 2 to 4 days can be sufficient to explore Cairo and possibly Luxor.

What additional destinations can I consider for an extended Egypt itinerary?

With 7 to 8 days, you can add a visit to the Red Sea towns like Sharm el Sheikh or Hurghada. Aswan and a trip to Abu Simbel are also popular additions to explore the southern part of Egypt. Additionally, exploring oases like Fayoum, Dakhla, Kharga, or Siwa can provide a unique experience.

How can I customize my Egypt trip duration?

Customizing your trip duration allows you to tailor the experience to suit your individual needs. Consider your personal preferences, interests, and the regions you want to explore to determine the ideal duration.

Can I visit Cairo and Giza in one day?

Yes, it is possible to visit Cairo and Giza in a day. Start with the Pyramids and the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, then head to Giza to see the Sphinx.

Are there recommended itineraries based on different trip durations?

Yes, here are some sample itineraries based on different trip durations: – 2-4 Days: Visit Cairo and the Pyramids, optionally add Luxor. – 4-6 Days: Include Cairo, Luxor, and a day trip to Alexandria. – 7-8 Days: Explore Cairo, Luxor, visit the Red Sea, and consider an additional destination like Aswan. – 10-14 Days: Comprehensive trip covering Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, possible additions of Red Sea, Sinai, or cultural visits to neighboring countries.

How can I make the most of my time in Egypt?

To optimize your Egypt trip duration, prioritize must-see attractions, consider guided tours for efficient exploration, and allocate enough time for rest and relaxation.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

A Snob’s Guide to Egypt

You can’t fully escape the crowds descending on Egypt now. But, as always, there are strategies…

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Egypt gives us what no other country can: the chance to see up close, in situ, the astonishing creative impulses of the world’s most long-lived ancient civilization. If it’s your first time, you’ll want to concentrate on the historic must-sees. They are scattered the length of Egypt, mostly in the narrow band along the banks of the Nile. The classic itinerary is Cairo–Aswan–Nile cruise–Luxor, then back to Cairo. (The order of Aswan and Luxor can be switched, depending on which cruise you take.)

But Egypt has not been standing still. There are new museums. There is a fever of excavations, with new sites opening to visitors and others restored. And there are off-the-beaten-path places to explore, including the newly accessible Sahara oases (the desert makes up about 95 percent of Egypt’s territory and is another world). All that, however, requires that you extend your trip beyond the usual 10 to 12 days—or, unimaginably, skip one of the classic stops. Want a full day at the Old Kingdom necropolis of Sakkara, to see the new finds? You’ll need a third day in Cairo. Ditto if you’re a rider and want to spend an afternoon galloping on an Arabian horse around Sakkara and Giza.

You need at least two days in Cairo, more if you can. To stay, I recommend the Four Seasons Nile Plaza , the Ritz-Carlton , and, if you don't mind a slightly more four-star place, the Marriott on Cairo's central, formerly chi-chi Zamalek Island, where I always stay; I like its convenient location, its Suez-Canal-related history, and most of all its large back garden and buzzy outdoor cafe, where tout le Caire still seems to congregate over hookahs and mighty strong G&Ts.

Devote the first day to pharaonic Egypt: the pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx in the morning, followed by the Memphis Museum and a walkabout of the vast funerary complex of Sakkara . On day two you’re in medieval Islamic Cairo: two mosques (the renowned Al-Azhar and the magnificently severe Ibn ­Tulun ), the Citadel (begun by Saladin to defend Cairo from the Crusaders), and an end-of-day meander (with shopping) around the Khan el-­Khalili market —part tourist trap, part real thing. A third day can be some combination of the below:

Two museums: The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization , where the mummies now reside, and the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, a.k.a., GEM (which is not officially open but is partially accessible, for a range of high fees—and worth it).

A full day at Sakkara: See the pyramid of Unas and its exceptionally fine carvings of funerary texts; the mind-bending Serapeum , where mummies of the sacred Apis bulls were buried in giant sarcophagi; and the king’s burial chamber tunnels beneath Djoser’s newly stabilized Step Pyramid ; you can now gaze straight down at his sarcophagus. End the day at the rarely visited three main pyramids of Dahshur (the Red, Black, and Bent), seven miles south of Sakkara. This is what you want in Egypt: to see something no one else is seeing, alone with ancientness.

For $3,000 you can spend time alone in Sakkara's colorful, newly discovered tomb of Wahtye, a high-ranking priest from the 25th century BC—who possibly stole the tomb from his brother.

An early morning flight from Cairo to Aswan and a short connecting flight to Abu Simbel, near Egypt’s border with Sudan, puts you face to face with as great a play for immortality (and ancient geopolitical power) as the pyramids of Giza. Contemplate Ramses II’s two staggering temples , then board the short early after­noon flight back to Aswan and the luxuries of Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel , with its ghosts of Winston Churchill, Agatha Christie, and many others—and the most perfect view of the Nile.

Aswan was always a frontier town, the last bastion of pharaonic religion, centered on the powerful cult of Isis worship in the temple of Philae . See the temple (it’s a tourist magnet, so go at dawn if possible), but even early travelers came here less for the antiquities than for the city’s tranquil “Nice of the Nile” beauty. Your next two days should include, between bouts of lounging, St. Simeon’s Monastery , in the desert on the opposite bank (the ancient Christian wreck has an oddly powerful aura); the elegant, eye-opening pink granite Nubian Museum (which presents the history and culture of Egypt’s ancient southern neighbor); Elephantine Island , a nexus of caravan routes from across Africa where you’ll arrive by felucca (an Aswan must); and a walk atop the ­Unfinished Obelisk , a fascinating ancient failure. Reputedly commissioned by the female pharaoh Hatshepsut, it would have been the world’s largest by far, but it developed fatal cracks. Its bottom end is still attached to the rock bed, workers’ marks still visible.

Foodie trove in the Aswan market: This small, manageable bazaar, which has rebounded in recent years, has the freshest, most varied spices procured directly from all over Africa. Stock up.

This is the mother lode of Egyptian antiquities, the country’s ceremonial capital for millennia. Stay at the grand but tatty Sofitel Winter Palace , overlooking the Nile on the east bank, or the boutiquey, just reno­vated Al Moudira , amid farmland on the west bank. Musts on the east bank, site of the ceremonial temples: the Karnak complex , the largest place of worship in the ancient world, and Luxor Temple . On the west bank, site of mortuary temples and tombs, get advance special entrance tickets (fewer visitors) for a handful of the best pharaonic tombs in the valleys of the kings and queens —especially those of Ramses VI, Nefertari, and Seti I. See the stunning Deir el-Bahri , mortuary temple of Hatshepsut, at dawn, as crowds truly interfere with sightlines. The Tombs of the Nobles offer a glimpse of how nonroyals lived and died. The temples of Medinet Habu and the Ramesseum are much less crowded; the shattered remains of Ramses II’s colossal statue in the latter are a reminder of how man’s best-laid plans can come to naught.

Avenue of the Sphinxes: It took 70 years to restore this ancient road, originally lined with 1,057 sphinxes and ram-headed statues, and you can now walk its entire 1.7 miles, from Karnak to Luxor Temple.

Temple of Khnum, Esna: The long-overlooked temple of the ram-­headed god, 35 miles south of Luxor, where most dahabiya cruises (see below) start, got a pharaonic face-lift; its columns now burst with their original colors.

Luxor Temple is already resplendently lit at night. Now imagine a private dinner amid the forest of giant columns in its Hypostyle Hall. Jim Berkeley of DAI can arrange it for you.

Nile Cruise

Do not, under any circumstances, be talked out of a Nile cruise in Upper Egypt. I resisted for a long time, but once I succumbed I found out what I’d been missing. You can cruise on a largish ship, with amenities like a plunge pool and spacious cabins (best choices would be Oberoi’s Zahra and Philae , or Egyptian-owned Historia ). Or, my preference: a traditional, flat-bottomed, two-masted dahabiya, with only eight to 12 cabins. Small cabins and bathrooms don’t matter, because you’re luxuriating on deck most of the time anyway, Agatha Christie–style, your hair blowing in the wind, a G&T in your hand, watching eternal Egypt pass by.

Consider one from chic Nour el Nil , which operates seven dahabiyas (the new Roman is the roomiest), or Zekrayaat , operated by Nile Dahabiya , or one from Lazuli Voyages . If you want total privacy, do a charter-only dahabiya, such as Zein Chateau , operated by A&K offshoot Sanctuary . Most commonly dahabiyas leave from Esna, south of Luxor, and sail four days upstream to Aswan. You can also board in Aswan and sail downstream, north to Esna—a shorter, 3-day voyage because of Nile currents. (How much time you spend on the boat will also determine in which order you visit Aswan and Luxor.) All ships stop at the temples of Kom Ombo and of Horus , at Edfu. But what only a dahabiya can offer is the ability to nose up to a pretty stretch of Nile shoreline and set up an impromptu picnic, after which you can walk to a nearby village where there are absolutely no other tourists.

Kazazian Cruises : It’s the striking new charter-only entrant in the Nile dahabiya competition. Their first boat can sleep 18, has a plunge pool on deck (as few others do), and has sleek all-white interiors.

Western Desert

Time in the desert gives any trip to Egypt an extra dimension. A vast region from west of the Nile to the Libyan border was closed for five years, because of instability in Libya, and only reopened recently. Fayoum oasis is just 69 miles southwest of Cairo, but it feels a world away: lush vegetation, waterfalls, a blue lake, rich birdlife (it’s on the migratory route between Africa and Europe). Fifty miles farther out is the Valley of Whales : gigantic fossils of whales and sharks from 40 million to 50 million years ago, when the Sahara was beneath the sea. (You will likely be alone.) Stay at the charming 16-suite Lazib Inn Resort & Spa , owned by a former VP of Four Seasons hotels.

Siwa oasis and its 40-room Adrère Amellal ecolodge , the inspired project of Cairo environmentalist and aesthete Mounir Neamatalla, require a 90-minute flight from Cairo or an eight-hour desert drive (which, believe it or not, has its charms). It is Egypt’s remotest oasis, a tropical garden of date palms, olive trees, and donkey carts, more than 200 freshwater springs, some hot, with the Great Sand Sea all around—the mammoth dunes of every Arabian fantasy, into which you can ride or drive. Visit the ruins of the temple of Amun , where Alexander the Great consulted the oracle in 331 BC after assuming the mantle of pharaoh, and the Mountain of the Dead , the startlingly beautiful graves of Siwa’s citizens going back to Greco-Roman times. Or just breathe, bathe, swim, and consume Adrère Amellal’s splendid organic meals—served at night by the light of hundreds of candles.

There is not more glamorous takeover than Adrere Amellal. You'll need a solar charger for your phone, but you can say you've done the "Sahara roller coaster" and slept where King Charles did.

Klara Glowczewska is the Executive Travel Editor of Town & Country , covering topics related to travel specifically (places, itineraries, hotels, trends) and broadly (conservation, culture, adventure), and was previously the Editor in Chief of Conde Nast Traveler magazine. 

@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-transform:scale(-1, 1);-moz-transform:scale(-1, 1);-ms-transform:scale(-1, 1);transform:scale(-1, 1);background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-1jdielu:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}} In the Magazine @media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-128xfoy:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}}

T&C Culture Watch: On the Agenda for May 2024

The 2024 T&C Jewelry Awards

Giovanna Engelbert is Instagram's Jewelry Guru

Why Ladylike Jewelry is Making a Comeback

Why 'A Man in Full' Matters

Maya Rudolph Is a National Treasure

Meet Broadway's Newest Stars

This Is What Happens When a Jewelry Icon Evolves

Roman and Williams Celebrates T&C's April Issue

Anatomy of a Classic: Il Bisonte's Consuelo Bag

The T&C Investment Portfolio: Home Edition

• Middle East
• North America
• Travel Resources
• Work with me

5 days in Egypt Itinerary for a Wonderful Trip! (2024)

Be it the mummy or raiders of the lost ark, egypt is one country that continue’s to feature in movies beacuse it is magical and transports people to an outwordly place this destination still has its old world charm intact and this 5 days in egypt itinerary will cover must do places in egypt.

I’ve probably watched The Mummy at let more than 20 times by now.

There’s something about the movie – be it the story, the characters, the adventure that transports me to a land where magic exists. However, what completes the movie is the location.

Egypt makes it perfect!

While not all of it is shot here, Egypt continues to be a country that still draws the crowds due not just die to the pyramids and the temple at Luxor, but also its souks, warm people, a cruise down the Nile…the things to do in Egypt are endless!

It is romantic, it is break taking and this 5 days in Egypt itinerary will make sure you get the best from your holiday here, a taster that will definitely make you return for more!

If you have more time on your hands, this 7 days in Egypt itinerary should help!

A 5 days in Egypt Itinerary

Here’s what to do in egypt on your 5 day trip, day 1 of your 5 days in egypt itinerary – cairo.

Arriving in Cairo, if you plan to get the most out of your first day here, visit these unmissable sites. The pyramids are located here so depending on how busy you’d like it to be, space it out accordingly. This way you can either spend one day in Cairo or even 2 days in Cairo.

The Pyramids

The Pyramids are the cornerstone of attractions in Egypt. Therefore, you cannot miss exploring them. It’s one of the most astonishing attractions in this region and an iconic place of the entire Egyptian heritage. Being among the greatest wonders from the ancient civilization, a chance to see them is priceless. Built as the burial sites for ancient rulers, they are the perfect examples of the astonishing architecture that has preserved until these days.

Egyptian Museum 

Going further, stop by the Egyptian Museum. If you want to learn ancient history, then Egyptian Museum should be a must on your travel Egyptian bucket list. From royal jewelry to artefacts and other treasures, time flies while you are there. So, don’t forget to check the time.

Khan el-Khalili

In the evening, visit Khan el-Khalili to end your first-day activities. It’s a historic venue and the best place to buy some souvenirs.

If you’d like to do more, wander around town and visit the souks! Don’t forget to indulge in traditional cuisine and try local foods, which is one of the best ways to get to know the locals!

Where to stay in Cairo

Gezira is hands down, one of the best areas to stay in Cairo. It is actually an island on the River Nile and is the place to go to if you’re looking to escape from the usual touristy hustle-bustle.

It is also a very safe neighbourhood, with plenty of things to do around as well. If you’re looking for a luxurious stay in Gezira, check out the Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezira . The Horus House Hotel and Om Kolthoom Hotel are also good options for budget accommodations.

Heliopolis is yet another good area in Cairo to stay. This place is close to the airport and not too far from the city too. Heliopolis is known for its heritage structures.

Some good hotels here include Hilton Cairo Heliopolis Hotel for a luxury stay, 1920s Boutique Hotel and Restaurants for a mid-range option and Colour Holidays for budget accommodation.

Places to eat in Cairo

To start off, Sobhy Kaber Restaurant is probably one of the best places to try out the local cuisine in Cairo. The food here tastes as close to homemade as it can get and the Molokhia/ Mulukhiyah is a popular pick here. Baba Abdo is the place to go to to try the authentic Egyptian koshary and Zooba is a great cafe if you’re vegan. For a fancy meal experience, try dining at the Nile City Boat.

Day 2 of your 5 days in Egypt Itinerary – Road Trip to Alexandria

Wake up early and embark on a road trip to Alexandria from Cairo on your 5 days in Egypt itinerary. It takes about two and a half hours. Meanwhile, enjoy the view of the changing landscapes before you reach one of Egypt’s largest cities. It’s the best place to explore ancient roman civilization in Egypt and its influence visible in the region.

If you’re spending just one day in Alexandria, you can visit some of the following sites:

Roman Catacombs : you can marvel at ancient Roman’s idea of a burial ground.

Pompey’s Pillar : yet another show of ancient Romans architecture.

Visit Serapeum : here, you will find the remains of ancient Greek civilization. Explore the temple for an incredible ancient experience.

Other historical places to consider:  Citadel of Qaitbay and the Alexandria National Museum.

Grand view of Mediterranean Blue Sea : after getting to know all the historical information you could encounter in Alexandria, visit the seaside. It offers a breath-taking view and is the best spot to chill out in the evening.

Where to Stay in Alexandria

Steigenberger Cecil and Paradise Inn Le Metropole are the top options for a luxurious stay in Alexandria overlooking the sea. Both of these are heritage hotels and still have an old-world charm to them. For more budget accommodation options, you can look out for Alkadi Hotel and New Hotel.

Places to Eat in Alexandria

To try out authentic Egyptian dishes, Foul Mohamed Ahmed is definitely the place to go. It is known for its foul – which is a traditional breakfast dish in Egypt. For seafood in Alexandria, head to Kadoura. They have the choicest dishes made from freshly caught seafood and it just couldn’t get any better! Lastly, Abou Fares is a good place to go to for Syrian food like shawarma and koftas.

Day 3 of your 5 days in Egypt Itinerary – Aswan

To save time, book a flight from Alexandria and land in Aswan. Aswan, is rich with archaeological sites and stunning natural views. Besides history, you can explore the cultural heritage of the Nubians here.

The places to visit in Aswan include:

Elephantine Island – You’ll encounter Nubian people and explore their culture and history.

Visit St. Simeon – ride through a dessert on a camel.

Historical Sites – Temple of Philae, Nubian Museum, Mausoleum of Aga Khan.

Where to Stay in Aswan

Aswan is a great place for travellers of varying budgets. From luxurious stays to low-budget accommodations, this city has it all. If you’re looking for something fancy and willing to splurge, check out Anakob and Movenpick.

If you’re a shoestring traveller and don’t have a lot to spend for your stay, places like David Hostel, Nubian Plaza Guest House and Baba Dooi have got you covered!

Places to Eat in Aswan

Aswan is a great place to eat your way through Egypt without burning a hole in your pocket. Solaih Nubian is a Nubian-themed restaurant that focuses on sustainability.

This place offers some great traditional dishes to try out that are so close to homemade and taste authentic. El Dokka is a great place to go to if you’re feeling like trying out some barbecued seafood! And if you’re in the mood to splurge a little, 1902 is a fine dining restaurant with various cuisines on offer.

Day 4 of your 5 days in Egypt Itinerary – Aswan to Luxor

The journey via land takes about three hours, so it’s worth considering. Use a car for an adventurous trip.  Along the way, you can stop and visit Esna Temple, Edfu Temple, and Kom Ombo.

When you arrive in Luxor visit the following incredible sites, Luxor Temple and Karnak Temple. They are very close to the city and easy to reach.

Day 5 of your 5 days in Egypt Itinerary – Luxor

On the last day before departing to your home country, you can start an early morning tour of historical sites further from the city.

Having visited Luxor Temple and Karnak Temple the previous day, you could consider:

Valley of the Kings

Tomb of Seti – I (KV17)

Tomb of Ramises III, VI

Temple of Hatshepsut

Luxor Museum

There are great collections of historical ruins that depict ancient Egypt in Luxor but by visiting any of the above options, you will be content!

Make sure to enjoy some national Egyptian dishes, e.g. Ful, Molokhiyya before you depart!. Then board your flight from Luxor International Airport to your next destination which can be booked via these options .

Where to Stay in Luxor

Without surprise, Luxor is as luxurious as Egypt can get! House of Hathor and the Al Moudira Hotel are two of the fanciest hotels to stay in Luxor if you’re willing to splurge. But if not, don’t worry. There are several mid-range to budget accommodations available in Luxor as well.

For mid-range, you can check out Sofitel Winter Palace and Hilton Luxor Resort and Spa . For more budget-friendly options, Venus Hotel , Happy Land Luxor Hotel, Luxor Old Nile Hotel and Al Salam Camp are all great options.

Places to Eat in Luxor

To start off, The 1886 is the finest restaurant in all of Luxor. Here you can try out modern twists on Mediterranean and Egyptian food. Pizza Roma.

It is probably where the best pizzas in all of Egypt can be found! Gerda’s Garden is yet another popular eating joint in Luxor where all kinds of food from pasta and burgers to shawarmas and koftas can be found!

More Places to Visit in Egypt

Though 5 days can just never be enough to properly visit any country, some of us are bound by a certain thing called life so we make do with as many days we get! But in case you have some more days to explore the great things Egypt has an offer, here are some recommendations that you might like to take into consideration –

The Nile Cruise

The Nile River Cruise take place between the cities of Aswan and Luxor. There are several options to choose from – expensive and luxurious ones or basic ones that are easier on the pocket. There are multi-level ships that offer spacious lounges, cafes and even yoga classes on the deck!

The other ship, the Felucca is a traditional Egyptian sailboat powered by the wind which gives a much more authentic experience while cruising down the Nile. Regardless of which option you choose from, the cruise is definitely something worth experiencing!

What Documents are Needed to Enter Egypt?

If you have been awaiting an incoming vacation or a trip to Egypt, there are certain documents you will need to arrange. These documents are federal requirements and you must obtain them before being granted entry into the country.

They include:

COVID – Test

You’ll need to provide a negative test to prove you are free of COVID-19. The test must be taken within 72 hours before entering Egypt and this needs to be shown to the Egyptian authorities at the airport. Don’t forget to take it within this specific duration in advance of your trip to avoid being denied entry to Egypt.

Yellow Fever Certificate

This is only necessary if you are from a region with registered cases of Yellow Fever. Check it out first before you depart for Egypt if you need this certificate.

Egypt e-Visa

Getting a visa to Egypt can get quite stressful. A quick and easy way to tackle this is by procuring a electronic visa to Egypt. While several years ago you could only obtain a visa to Egypt by going through a demanding application process at Embassy, now you have an alternative. To apply for e-Visa online to Egypt, you just need a computer, stable internet connection and a couple of minutes.

This travel document can be issued either as a single-entry or multiple-entry permit. So depending on your plans of the trip to Egypt, choose the one that will fit your travel needs better. The best part is that you will receive this document in less than 72 hours.

Besides the e-visa, there are a few other Egypt visas that can be explored for your upcoming trip.

If you want to avoid the hassle of planning and obtaining the needed documents, you can explore the guided tours to Egypt option and book your spot in an organized group tour. The professionals that organize these tours will guide you in the process, obtain most of the documents for you, and plan a perfect Egypt itinerary.

There’s so much to do in Egypt! 5 days in Egypt will scratch the surface however it is enough to ensure you get a taste and to make sure you visit one of the natural wonders of the ancient world! This 5-day Egypt itinerary ensures each day is exciting and memorable yet not too stressful.

5 Day Egypt Itinerary – FAQs

How many days do you need for egypt.

Seven days is usually an ideal amount of time to spend in Egypt to see places like Cairo, Aswan, Luxor and Alexandria and also sail down the Nile River. However, to see most major attractions of Egypt, 5 days should be enough too.

What is the best time to visit Egypt?

The winter and spring months from October to April are usually the best time to visit Egypt. During this time, the weather is neither too hot nor too cold and mostly pleasant throughout the day.

Is Egypt cheap to visit?

Egypt is usually cheaper to visit when compared to countries of Europe, North America, Iceland and New Zealand. Hotels can cost anywhere between 10 to 150 dollars, depending on what kind you choose. An average meal in Egypt usually costs about 5 to 10 dollars, whereas street food can be as cheap as 1 dollar!

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.

She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.

She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.

PIN FOR LATER!

What’s your favourite beach? Do you also like the city it’s located in?

I’d love to hear in the comments below!

Visiting Dunluce Castle Game of Thrones Location (2024) – Dunluce Castle tours & activities

Gobbins Cliff Path all Info (2024) – Cliffs, Seawaves & Gulls

Ballintoy Harbour Game of Thrones Filming Locations (2024) : All Info + Trivia!

Ireland in Spring (2024) : A Travel Guide for the Best Things to do in Ireland

Northern Ireland Game of Thrones Locations (2024) – 10+ GOT Spots and Trivia!

Causeway Coastal Way (2024) – An Itinerary for the Best of Northern Ireland

Belfast to Giants Causeway (2024) – Giants Causeway Tour From Belfast

Things to do in Strangford (2024) – The Pretty Village Near Castle Ward

Road Trip Northern Ireland (2024) – A Fun and Detailed 5 day Itinerary

Free Things to do in Belfast in a Day -12+ fun activities (2024)

What to Pack for Winter – Staying Trendy with Basics in 2024

Farls and Eels : Traditional Food in Ireland (2024)

Some of the links on this post are affiliate links. These do not cost you extra to use, but will help provide Continent Hop with a small commission if/when you purchase through them, to recover some of the costs of running this website and providing free content to help you plan your travel. I appreciate your support!

Add comment Cancel reply

How Many Days to Visit Egypt?

While you can see a lot in Egypt in as little as 5 days, if you want to see all, or at least most of the major tourist attractions, then you should plan to spend at least 7 or 8 days in the country.

Discover Egypt: Tailored Itineraries for Every Time Frame

Dive into Egypt’s rich history and culture. Learn to navigate your perfect Egyptian adventure, from short stays to extensive explorations.

12 Days in Egypt – What to see in Egypt in 12 Days

10 Days in Egypt – What to see in Egypt in 10 Days

9 Days in Egypt – What to See in Egypt in 9 Days

8 Days in Egypt – What to see in Egypt in 8 Days

7 Days in Egypt – What to See in Egypt in 7 Days

6 Days in Egypt – What to See in Egypt in 6 Days

5 Days in Egypt – What to see in Egypt in 5 Days

4 Days in Egypt – What to see in Egypt in 4 Days

3 Days in Egypt – What to see in Egypt in 3 Days

At Egypt Tours Plus, we are often asked how many days do you need to visit Egypt, and our response varies from one person to the next depending on what all they want from a vacation in Egypt. Some people only want to visit the Pyramids of Giza, and a few major archaeological sites in Luxor, such as Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, and Valley of the Kings.

In this case, 5 days in Egypt would be adequate, and you may even be able to squeeze one or two other sites like Queen Hatshepsut Temple and/or the breathtaking rock-cut temples of Ramses II at Abu Simbel. However, this would necessitate a very busy schedule, so you would not have much time for relaxing.

If you are wondering how long to visit Egypt for if you want to see more than only those tourist attractions mentioned above, then our answer would be seven to ten days. However, to get the most out of a 7 to 10 day tour, it is highly recommended that you book a professionally designed Egypt private tour that includes your own tour guide, driver and vehicle.

8-Day Egypt Extravaganza: Discover More in 7 Magical Days

Most people don’t want to start visiting major tourist sites on the day they arrive in Egypt, so one day is essentially lost in terms of sightseeing.

Sometimes it is also not possible to do any sightseeing on your last day in the country due the departure time of your flight back home. This is all something you need to take into consideration when planning a trip to Egypt .

A well-planned 8-day itinerary allows you to see three of the most popular Cairo attractions , including the Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum which is located in Tahrir Square in downtown Cairo, and the centuries-old Khan El-Khalili bazaar in the heart of Islamic Cairo.

The following day, we fly you to Aswan where you board a 5-star Nile River cruise to Luxor , with daily Egyptologist-guided excursions to see the top archaeological sites in Upper Egypt, including sites such Philae Temple, Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings and more.

On the second-last day of you Egypt vacation , you disembark from your cruise, and you visit a few more attractions before flying back to Cairo for your last night in Egypt. With a tour such as this one, seven days in Egypt will allow you to see all of Egypt’s most famous ancient sites.

8-Day Egypt Tours for Disabled Travelers

8-Day Egypt New Year Tour w/ Nile Cruise [Small Group Tour]

8-Day Egypt Tour in December w/ Nile Cruise [Small Group Tour]

8-Day Egypt Christmas Tour and Nile Cruise [Small Group Tour]

8-Day Cairo and Siwa Oasis Tour

8-Day Pyramids and Nile Cruise Holidays [Group Tour]

8-Day Dubai and Cairo Tour

8-Day Cairo to Abu Simbel Tour w/ Nile Cruise

8-Day Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel Tour

10 days in egypt: the ultimate full experience journey.

If you have time to spare and you are wondering how long to visit Egypt for, then you might want to consider a 10-day stay. Our 10-Day Cairo and Round Trip Nile Cruise Package , is a perfect example of just how wonderful a 10-day holiday in Egypt can be. With this package, you get to see the top sites in Cairo, including the Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum, and the famous Khan el-Khalili bazaar.

The following day you fly to Luxor and you board a 5-star Nile cruise that begins in Luxor and ends in Luxor. During your cruise you visit several of the best monuments of ancient Egypt that line the banks of the River Nile in Upper Egypt. Since this is a 7-day cruise, the pace is a lot slower than it is with shorter cruises, which means you have a lot more time for relaxing on board the cruise ship.

If you don’t want to spend so many days on the river, and would rather spend some time near the sea on the Red Sea coast, then we recommend checking out our 10-Day Overland Cairo, Aswan, Luxor and Hurghada Tour .

While our 10-day overland package does not include a Nile cruise, you still get to see all the same great attractions as you would with a Nile cruise, including places like Philae Temple, Karnak, Valley of the Kings, etc. This package also includes a day trip to Abu Simbel.

If you are still wondering how many days needed to visit Egypt, the two tours referenced above will leave you with no doubt that 10 days is enough to ensure you can have a truly amazing vacation in Egypt.

10-Day Egypt Wheelchair Accessible Trip

10-Day Egypt Christmas Vacation, Nile Cruise & Red Sea [Small Group Tour]

10-Day SS MISR Nile Cruise Tour Package from Cairo to Luxor & Aswan

10-Day Luxury Nile Cruise and Cairo Tours

10-Day Round Trip Nile Cruise and Cairo Package

10-Day Egypt and Jordan Luxury Tours

12 days: stay longer and enjoy more variety.

Nearly every visitor to Egypt wants to see the Pyramids of Giza, and nearly every visitor wants to see the ancient wonders that are located in or near to Luxor. After all, the area where these ancient ruins and tombs are located is considered to be the world’s largest and most impressive open-air museum. But, what if you want to see more than only ancient pyramids temples and tombs?

So, how many days needed to visit Egypt if you also want to visit some cultural sites such as the Cairo Citadel and Al-Muizz Street in the heart of Islamic Cairo? Perhaps you also want to visit some of Cairo’s historic religious sites such as the Hanging Church and other famous Coptic churches, or famous mosques like the Muhammad Ali Alabaster Mosque and/or the breathtaking Al-Hussain Mosque.

Cairo is home to several magnificent churches and Ottoman-style mosques that are hundreds of years old, with absolutely breathtaking architecture. If you want to visit some of these sites, as well as Egypt’s most famous ancient monuments, then of course you will want to know, how many days needed to visit Egypt?

How many days needed to visit Egypt, really depends on what all you want to see and do during your trip, so it is not easy to say exactly how many days you should plan for until we know exactly what all you want to see and do during your trip. However, if you want to visit all the top ancient attractions as well as some cultural and/or religious sites, then we would recommend that you plan for at least 12 days in Egypt.

13-Day Egypt Luxury Holiday – Cairo, Nile Cruise, Red Sea

12-Day Cairo, Nile Cruise and Hurghada Stay (w/ Diving Option)

12-Day Cairo, Nile Cruise And Red Sea Stay

12-Day Nile and Lake Nasser Cruise – From Cairo to Abu Simbel

12-Day Grand Tour of Egypt: Cairo, Nile Cruise, and Sahara Desert Tour

12-Day Honeymoon Nile Cruise & Tours

12-Day Luxury Honeymoon in Egypt: Cairo, Nile Cruise, Red Sea Tour

Egypt tailor-made tours.

At Egypt Tours Plus we specialize in high quality Egypt Tour Packages and Egypt Tailor-Made Tours . If you are planning to visit Egypt, we recommend that you browse our wide range of epic Egypt vacation packages. You can also use our user-friendly Egypt Travel Planner to design your own tour in three easy steps. Simply click on the “Design Tour” button, complete the three steps and submit your request. Once we receive it, we will send you a precise quote in 1-24 hours

Alternatively, you can contact us and let us have a list of all the sites you want to visit, and we will let you know exactly how many days needed to visit Egypt based you the information you have given us.

With more than 250,000 tours already sold, you can be sure that your holiday dreams will be in good hands. Contact us now and let us make your dream trip to Egypt come true.

Design Your Custom Egypt Tour

Explore Egypt and the Middle East your way by selecting only the attractions you want to visit

8-Day Egypt Holiday Tour – Cairo and Nile Cruise [By Train]

8-Day Best of Egypt Tour – Cairo and Nile Cruise [By Air]

Egypt travel information.

Full Safety Guide: Is It Safe to Travel to Egypt?

What are the Must Visit Places in Egypt?

Egypt Travel Tips: This You Need to Know

How to Plan a Trip to Egypt – Start Here!

Best Time to Visit Egypt and When to Book!

What to Pack for Egypt (Simple Packing List)

Last Updated on March 25, 2024

You might also like

We Don't Just Sell Amazing Tours, We Make Dreams Come True!

Private tours since 1955.

Award-Winning Service

Create your dream trip.

Design Your Custom Tour

Explore Egypt your way by selecting only the attractions you want to visit

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Destinations

Experiences.

• Photography

Plan Your Trip

Egypt starts here.

With all the innuendo (and, frankly, Islamophobia) on the internet, much of the difficulty of planning an Egypt itinerary is cutting through the noise. According to some people, a trip to Egypt is a death wish—or worse.

In fact, planning a trip to Egypt is a delightful task, to say nothing of how wonderful traveling in the country is. From the marvelous mosques of Cairo, to the forlorn beaches of the Sinai peninsula, to the revelation of waking up onboard a traditional Felucca boat on the Nile river, Egypt is one of the most underrated destinations in the world.

Of course, the following paragraphs won’t just contain practical information, such as places to visit in Cairo or day trips you can take from Aswan and Luxor . My advice will be interspersed with stories of my own travel in Egypt, which will hopefully be illuminating (or at least funny!).

Practical Matters

When to visit egypt.

The best time to visit Egypt is somewhat subjective, but I’ll tell you when not to visit: From about May until August, when most of the country is blisteringly hot. To be sure, while the best weather in Egypt occurs from about October until March, this period (especially the time around Christmas and New Years) can also be very busy. For the best of both worlds, visit Egypt during the “shoulder” months of April or September.

Where to Stay in Egypt

Although the best hotels in Cairo and on the Sinai peninsula can get pretty luxurious (and pricey), I prefer unique, boutique accommodations throughout Egypt. In the capital I like Tahrir Plaza Suites , which is close to Cairo Citadel but is also convenient for more mainstream sightseeing. In Luxor and Aswan, meanwhile, I find the simple accommodations of Scorpion House and Maghrabi’s to be the perfect place to re-charge after a long day of sightseeing, respectively.

How to Get Around in Egypt

Whether you’re planning a 2 week Egypt itinerary or a shorter trip, the country’s transportation system is relatively straightforward. Cairo has an expansive metro system, while you’ll get around other cities by foot or taxi. Traveling between most cities is possible by train or bus, though in the case of Sharm el-Shiekh (and other destinations in Sinai or elsewhere on the Red Sea) it’s better to fly, both for logistical reasons as well as security-related ones.

Money, Costs and Communication

Unless you insist on traveling in the lap of luxury, your two weeks in Egypt isn’t going to be very expensive. Egypt uses the Egyptian pound (EGP), and in addition to the fact that this currency is perpetually weak, prices in Egypt have never really recovered since the Arab Spring. This is sad, of course, for locals, especially those who derive their income from tourism. But it means that the majority of travelers can explore Egypt very comfortably for between 25-100 USD per person, per day.

As far as communication, whether you get an Egypt SIM card on arrival or simply depend on WiFi in hotels and public areas, it’s relatively easy to stay connected in Egypt. Egypt’s official language, meanwhile, is Arabic, though English is widely spoken due to Egypt’s brief stint as a British colony around the turn of the 20th century.

Egypt Visas

As of December 2020, the online Egypt visa application appears to be re-activated, after temporarily having been suspended. Thankfully—if you must, I mean—getting an Egypt visa on arrival at Cairo Airport isn’t difficult, assuming you’re a citizen of one of the countries eligible to use the service . Note that if you plan to enter Egypt by land, your only option for crossing the border is to obtain your visa in advance at an Egyptian embassy or consulate.

Places to Visit During Your Egypt Itinerary

Cairo and the pyramids of giza.

Most travelers visit Cairo as a perfunctory stop before or after an Egypt pyramids tour. But whether you take the time to discover the most beautiful vantage points in the aptly-named “City of a Thousand Minarets,” or simply choose to explore underrated parts of Egypt’s capital like Cairo Citadel and the Christian neighborhood of Coptic Cairo , I have a feeling it’s going to shatter your expectations.

Speaking of pyramids, they’re definitely an essential part of your Egypt two week itinerary, but did you know that the three main Pyramids of Giza are not the only game in town? Saqqara , which sits just south of Giza, is home to several other pyramids, including the “step” pyramid of Djoser and the “red” pyramid in Dashur .

Aswan and Luxor

Many an Egypt travel itinerary will venture down the Nile in some form of fashion, though far too many travelers don’t really go far south of Cairo. Personally, I love heading all the way down to Aswan, and exploring destinations in Nubia (the region of Egypt near the border with Sudan), then slowing making my way up to Luxor (ideally, on a traditional Felucca boat) and exploring the sights there.

Specifically, split your time in Aswan between Lake Nasser and the Temple of Abu Simbel , which is more than worth the 3 am wake-up trip a trip necessitates. Decide on the best Nile cruise to get you to Luxor, where you’ll not only visit the massive Karnak Temple , but also the Valley of the Kings , Valley of the Queens and the Colossi of Memnon .

If you’re searching for the best Egypt beaches, look no farther. While the waters immediately off the shores of Sharm el-Shiekh (the tourist capital of the Sinai peninsula) are primarily for dividing, the Red Sea beaches you find farther south (namely in the protected Ras Mohammed National Park ) are some of the most gorgeous places to swim you’ll find anywhere in the world.

Unfortunately, a sizable number of travelers are declining to include Sinai in their Egypt itinerary due to perceptions that it is unsafe. I’ll speak more about the topic of security in Egypt in general more in just a few paragraphs, but I’ll be clear right now: The most dangerous thing about traveling to Sinai is that you’ll feel de-motivated to visit anywhere else in Egypt after you see how beautiful it is.

When you plan a trip to Egypt, your mind will divide your trip into three segments: The city (i.e. Cairo); the beach (i.e. Sinai) and ancient Egyptian, which largely manifests itself in the south of the country. Ironically, the northern city of Alexandria , which is in some ways an amalgam of these three essential Egypt experiences, is easy to ignore as you plan.

Of course, that’s not to say that Alexandria is perfect. It’s a gritty and overwhelming city, and a far cry from the glamour that the legacy of Cleopatra would suggest. But whether you focus on things to do in Alexandria, Egypt like the Library of Alexandria or the Citadel of Qaitbay , or simply spend your time chatting with locals along the Corniche , spend at least a day of your Egypt trip here.

Other Egypt Destinations

Assuming you spend just 2 weeks in Egypt, you probably won’t have much more room in your trip for destinations besides the ones I’ve mentioned. Then again, I’ve mentioned most of the places to visit in Egypt, so this is not a huge concern. A good percentage of the country is empty desert, only part of which is accessible.

Of course, Egypt desert tours (namely, of the White Desert and Bahariya Oasis just west of Cairo) aren’t the only way to expand your trip. For example, after starting in Sharm el-Shiekh, you could explore the smaller village of Dahab on the Sinai peninsula, or continue farther down the Red Sea coast to Hurghada , which is accessible by ferry from Sharm.

Is Egypt Safe?

Is Egypt safe to visit? This is not a “yes” or “no” question, unfortunately. While I have never personally experienced any bodily harm in Egypt (and this is considering that one of my trips took place just after the 2011 Arab Spring), it’s difficult to deny the veracity of the dozens of news reports that have come out saying just the contrary. Certainly, women who travel alone in Egypt need to be on high-alert, as incidences of rape are more than a little widespread.

On the other hand, whether you plan to undertake a full Egypt 2 week itinerary or are simply headed down to Sinai to escape winter in Europe , exercising some common sense will insulate you from the majority of danger in Egypt. Try not to worry about the threat of terrorism of something worse, as tragedies of this sort are unlikely to befall you!

How Long to Spend in Egypt

When it comes to how many days in Egypt, I generally recommend a minimum of two weeks in Egypt—at least if you want to cover a lot of ground in the country. Obviously, a long weekend is enough to see just Cairo, or to hit the beaches of Sinai (or, alternatively, to head under the crystalline sea if you’re a SCUBA diver).

Other FAQ About Traveling to Egypt

Is it safe for americans to travel to egypt.

Americans are at no more danger than travelers of any other nationality while in Egypt. You should remain vigilant of petty theft, dangerous road conditions and any suspicious behavior when you visit Egypt, irrespective of which passport you hold.

Can I wear shorts in Egypt?

Egypt has no official dress code for tourists—there is nothing illegal about wearing shorts in Egypt, for male or female travelers. With this being said, Egypt is a Muslim country, one in which women are expected to dress modestly. While it’s fine for women to wear shorts and bikinis on the beaches of the Sinai peninsula, this might not be a great idea in more conservative places like Cairo.

Can I drink alcohol in Egypt?

Although Egypt is a Muslim country, alcohol is served in certain settings. This includes luxury hotels and high-end restaurants in Cairo or Sinai destinations like Sharm el-Sheikh, as well as a limited number of establishments in smaller cities like Alexandria, Aswan and Luxor.

The Bottom Line

No matter what form your Egypt itinerary takes, or how many days to visit Egypt you decide, you’re in the right place to start planning it. Follow my example and spend 2 weeks in Egypt, dividing your time between Cairo, Alexandria, Upper Egypt and the Sinai peninsula. Or put together your own Egypt trip, using a mix of the mainstream and Egypt off the beaten path destinations I’ve shared in this post. Even if you simply make a weekend trip to see Egypt’s pyramids for yourself, there’s nowhere in the world like the Land of the Pharaohs. Want your next Egypt trip to be one for the record books? Consider hiring me to plan it! Alternatively, enjoy the many free Egypt travel blog posts I’ve written on this website.

Subscribe to email updates!

Words, images and design ©2009-2024 Robert Schrader, All rights reserved. Read Privacy Policy or view sitemap .

• Skip to main content
• Skip to after header navigation
• Skip to site footer

EgyptTravelBlog.com

This form is for demo purposes only. Use whatever form/email/optin plugin you’d like.

* We don’t do spam, just the latest news. Sign up today and get our top stories delivered straight to your inbox.

How Long Should You Stay In Egypt?

Another topic that I’m often asked about is how long one should plan to stay in Egypt when you visit, and part of that depends on how you get there. If you’re tacking a visit to Egypt on to a trip to somewhere else in the region, you can get away with a shorter stay and be ok. If you’re flying all the way from North America just to go to Egypt, then you won’t want to fly all that way and turn around a few days later and fly back. You’ll want to stay a bit longer.

Ok so let’s start with the short trips and work our way along to the longer itineraries. If you’re already visiting Turkey or Jordan or the Emirates or Israel and you want to hop over to Egypt while you’re in the region, you’ll only be flying a few hours at most so you won’t be worn out when you get there and in need of recovery time. If you just want to do one stop in Egypt, then obviously you have to do Cairo because that’s where most of the stuff to see is, including the Pyramids. They’re just outside of the city on the western edge of its urban sprawl.

So if you just fly to Cairo, you can spend a day doing the Pyramids and Egyptian Museum, another day exploring the city, then skeedatle. That’s a 2-day trip, meaning two full days on the ground in Egypt, and that’s about the shortest you can see anything, but that’s only if you’re already in the region. If you want to do a short trip and see Luxor too, then add on an extra day or two to fly down there.

Luxor is about an hour flight south. There’s an overnight train that you can take too, but please only take that if you’re under about 27, are ok with not getting much sleep, and are still into the backpacker lifestyle. I’ve done it several times, but I was all of those things and it still sucked. It’s not the worst train in Egypt by far (I’ve taken that through the desert for days complete with a goat riding in the bathroom with us) but still it’s just not really worth it when flying to Luxor and back is so cheap (about $150-250 round trip). Also, flying gives you so much more time to see things and be rested rather than being exhausted because you’ve been up all night on a bumpy, uncomfortable, 10-hour train ride, and you still have to do it all over again to get back. So please just take my advice and fly to Luxor and back from Cairo.

If you want to do Luxor in one day it IS possible. You can take one of the first flights out of Cairo in the morning and get there mid-morning, then hustle around and see the major stuff all day, then take one of the later flights back in the evening. If you don’t want to be rushed and you have more time, spending one night in Luxor is totally worth it. You’ll be exhausted after hoofing it around the Valley of the Kings and down into the tombs and up again and then all around the large temple complexes all day, and after all that it’s really nice to be able to just go back to your hotel there locally and relax. You can spread the sites out over two days instead of one and get to see more at a leisurely pace.

So bottom line is give Cairo at least 2 days and Luxor at least one additional day if not 2. So that’s 2-4 days total for doing Egypt as an add-on when you’re already in the region. Now, for those who are flying across the ocean to visit Egypt, you’ll want to stay a little longer. Coming all that way for 2 or 3 days is crazy. You’ll want at the very least 4 and preferably 5 or 6 days on the ground there. If you have 5 or 6, I’d recommend spending 2 in Cairo, an overnight in Luxor, and taking a day trip up to Alexandria from Cairo. If you have longer you can stay overnight in Alex too. But I’ve done it as a day trip dozens of times. I think the only time I ever stayed there more than one day was the very first time I visited, and I was living there so I did it as a weekend trip.

If you have more than 5 or 6 days, you can also add on the Red Sea or the Sinai. I’d recommend to most people that they avoid the Sinai now because it’s become a little harder for the government to police. If you’re a really adventurous traveler and you really want to see St. Catherine’s Monastery and Mount Sinai you can risk it, but I would not recommend it for most people right now. I’ve been a lot and it’s neat to experience when it’s totally secure, but they’ve had some issues over the past few years so I’d stick to Egypt proper where there’s more than enough to still see and do.

If you wanted to fly to the Red Sea town of Sharm el Sheikh at the southern tip of the Sinai, that would be totally safe to visit. Or you can fly or drive to Hurghada on the African side of the Red Sea. Most of Egypt is in Africa, except for the Sinai which is in Asia, but the African side of the Red Sea in Egypt is in what I call “Egypt proper.” You don’t have to cross into the Sinai to visit this part of the Red Sea, and it’s just as beautiful.

While Hurghada is the main Red Sea town in Egypt Proper, my absolute favorite place to visit on Egypt’s Red Sea coast is a little resort town about 15 miles north of Hurghada called El Gouna. It’s way less touristy here, much less crowded, the resorts are much nicer, and the town itself is way nicer and super cute.

If you make the trek out to the Red Sea, plan to spend at least 2 full days there in order to get the most out of the journey. So if you tack on the Red Sea, that means you’ll be in Egypt for about 7-8 days total at least.

Anywhere from 5-8 days is pretty typical for trips to Egypt, even all the way from North America. I wouldn’t yell at you for coming over and just spending 5 days here, as long as they were 5 full days on the ground. But you’ll want to make sure you hit Cairo and Luxor at a minimum. If you stay longer, you can do Alexandria, the Red Sea, and/or even an oasis. There’s a small oasis about 2 hours outside of Cairo called Fayoum. But if you want a real oasis experience you’re going to have to go farther out into the desert (Dakhla, Kharga, Farafra, or even the famous Siwa Oasis way out there near the Libyan border), but you’ll have to tack on a few extra days to accommodate the addition.

One other major region of the country we haven’t covered yet that sees a lot of tourism is the far south of Egypt around the city of Aswan, Lake Nasser, and even Abu Simel really far south down by the Sudanese border. Aswan is another place you can tack on to your itinerary if you have an extra day. Aswan’s a pleasant little riverside town with a lot of Nubian influence, but the main thing people go visit there is the Aswan High Dam, which finally allowed Egypt after thousands of years to control the flow of the Nile further north because remember the Nile flows from south to north.

There’s also the Temple of Philae near Aswan. But I think the main reason people go all the way down to Aswan is because it’s the launch pad for going to see the Abu Simbel, which is about 200 miles south of Aswan and you have to go through Aswan to get there, either by military convoy or by air.

It’s really far out of the way, but a lot of tourists still make time to go there because it’s such an incredible ancient temple built by Ramses the Great as one of the many monuments to himself he built during his 66-year reign. So if you want to do Aswan and Abu Simbel both, that’s got to be at least an additional 2 days on your itinerary because of the logistics of getting to Abu Simbel.

So there you have it. Egypt is totally worth the time getting there and the money it takes to make an amazing trip once you’re there. But planning appropriately is the key to making sure your trip is truly the trip of a lifetime. And if you read thoroughly here and follow even half of my advice, it will be. Yalla!

You May Also Like…

Egypt Packing & Clothing Recommendations

Everything You NEED to Know About Visiting the Pyramids & Sphinx

Getting from the Airport to Your Hotel in Cairo

What to See & Do in Luxor

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Travel Advisory July 13, 2023

Egypt - level 3: reconsider travel.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Reconsider travel to Egypt due to  terrorism . Exercise increased caution in Egypt due to  the Embassy’s limited ability to assist dual national U.S.-Egyptian citizens who are arrested or detained.

Do not travel to:

• The Sinai Peninsula (with the exception of travel to Sharm El-Sheikh by air) due to  terrorism .
• The Western Desert due to  terrorism .
• Egyptian border areas due to  military zones .

Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting attacks in Egypt. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, and have targeted diplomatic facilities, tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, western businesses, restaurants, resorts, and local government facilities. Terrorists have conducted attacks in urban areas, including in Cairo, despite the heavy security presence. Terrorists have targeted religious sites, to include mosques, churches, monasteries, and buses traveling to these locations.

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Egypt, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices .

Local law prohibits protesting or demonstrating without a permit. Being near anti-government protests can draw scrutiny from Egyptian police and security forces. U.S. citizens have been detained for participating in protests and for posting content on social media perceived as critical of Egypt or its allies.

The U.S. Embassy may have a limited ability to provide consular services to dual U.S.-Egyptian citizens. Egyptian law considers dual citizens to be Egyptian citizens.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Egypt.

If you decide to travel to Egypt:  

• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)   to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on   Facebook   and   Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report   for Egypt.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest   Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the   Traveler’s Checklist .

Sinai Peninsula – Level 4: Do Not Travel The Sinai Peninsula remains a particularly dangerous area, with frequent attacks on security forces and civilians.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens anywhere in the Sinai Peninsula as U.S. government employees are not authorized to travel to these areas (with the exception of the beach resort of Sharm El-Sheikh; travel to Sharm El-Sheikh is only permitted by air). Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must have six months validity

At least one blank page

Less than $10,000

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy cairo.

Consular Section 5 Tawfik Diab Street Garden City, Cairo Egypt Telephone: +(20) 2-2797-3300 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(20) 2-2797-3300 Fax: +(20) 2-2797-2472 Email:   [email protected] Facebook

The American Citizens Services (ACS) Unit uses an  online appointment system  for those coming to the Embassy to receive routine consular services Sunday through Wednesday, except for official holidays (U.S. and Egyptian). U.S. citizens with non-emergency inquiries may send an email to the ACS Unit at  [email protected] .

For emergencies during and after business hours, including on weekends and holidays, U.S. citizens can contact the ACS Unit via the Embassy switchboard at 02-2797-3300. The mailing address from the United States is: Consular Section, Unit 64900, Box 15, APO AE 09839-4900. Within Egypt or from a third country, it is 8 Kamal el-Din Salah Street, Garden City, Cairo, Egypt. Express mail services also use the physical address.

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Passport and Visas:

• U.S. citizens must have a visa to enter Egypt.
• U.S. citizens can obtain a renewable single-entry 30-day tourist visa on arrival at Egyptian airports for a 25 USD fee. A multiple entry visa is also obtainable for 60 USD.
• The Government of Egypt has created a website for the issuance of “ e-visas .” There are other websites purporting to offer electronic visas, some of which reportedly charge double the official price, but this is the only official Government of Egypt portal for this service. U.S. citizens and the citizens of 44 other countries are eligible to apply through this means in advance of their travel.
• Egyptian immigration officials occasionally have denied entry to travelers without explanation. 
• U.S. citizens who have experienced difficulty with their visa status in Egypt or are concerned about their eligibility for a visa upon arrival should apply for a visa at an Egyptian embassy or consulate prior to travel, but a visa obtained prior to entry does not guarantee admission to Egypt.
• Visas for gainful employment or study in Egypt must be obtained prior to travel.

Entry from Israel:

• U.S. citizens arriving from Israel at the Taba border crossing should obtain a visa ahead of time.
• If travelers do not obtain a visa prior to arrival, they may either apply for a no-fee, 14-day visa that is only valid for travel within the Sinai Peninsula, or they may obtain a 30-day tourist visa valid for travel throughout Egypt for 25 USD.
• The 30-day visa requires the submission of a travel agency support letter that may be obtained from travel agents at the border; their fees for providing this service vary.
• The Government of Egypt opens this border on an infrequent and unpredictable basis.
• Travel groups and/or humanitarian aid convoys that wish to cross at Rafah would need to contact the  Egyptian Embassy  in Washington for permission prior to travel.
• The Egyptian government screens travelers before allowing entry/exit through the Rafah border crossing with Gaza.
• The U.S. government advises its citizens to avoid travel to Gaza; the U.S. Embassy does not issue travel letters or provide any assistance in crossing to and from Gaza.
• Travelers to Gaza from Egypt should read the  Travel Advisory for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza and are reminded the Sinai Peninsula remains a particularly dangerous area, with frequent Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS) attacks on security forces and civilians.

Diplomatic and Official Passports:

• Diplomatic and Official passport holders, when entering Egypt for official business, are required to have visas  before arrival in Egypt.
• Diplomatic or Official passport holders must not use these passports to enter Egypt for unofficial travel, and should use their personal passports, following all appropriate regulations.
• Travelers attempting to enter Egypt with diplomatic or official passports who do not have visas will be denied entry and required to remain in the airport transit area, at their own expense, until their immediate departure from Egypt can be arranged.
• The U.S. Embassy in Cairo is unable to intervene in such situations. Military personnel arriving on commercial flights are not exempt from passport and visa requirements.
• The  Egyptian Embassy  in Washington currently requires at least three weeks, and sometimes much longer, to process official and diplomatic visa requests, an expedite letter from the Department of State notwithstanding.
• It is incumbent upon all official travelers to submit their visa requests and passports to the Egyptian Embassy well in advance of travel.

Work Permits:

• U.S. citizens who wish to come to Egypt for work must obtain work permits and work/business visas before arrival.
• All work permits must be obtained through the employer. These permits may be acquired from the Ministry of Manpower and Migration offices in the district of the employer; accordingly, these permits authorize residency in the country.
• U.S. citizens who arrive as tourists but want to change their status after arrival in country may acquire a three-month tourist/non-working residency visa to allow sufficient time to change their status from tourist to worker.
• U.S. citizens in Egypt on tourist visas are not permitted to work. 

For additional information on entering Egypt, please contact the nearest  Egyptian Embassy  or Consulate.

Medical Requirements:

• U.S. citizens arriving from an area that has been infected with yellow fever will need to provide proof of immunizations.
• Please verify this information with the  Egyptian Embassy  before you travel. 

Exit Requirements:

• U.S. citizen women married to Egyptians do not need their spouse's permission to depart Egypt as long as they have a valid Egyptian visa or valid Egyptian passport.
• A U.S. citizen departing Egypt with a dual-national child (U.S.-Egyptian) may be required by Egyptian immigration officers at the airport to demonstrate that they have proof of consent of the non-traveling Egyptian parent.
• If travelers attempt to depart Egypt after the expiration of their visa, they may be required to pay a fine at the airport. Travelers should ensure that they arrive to the airport early with sufficient Egyptian currency to pay any fines.
• The U.S. Embassy does not issue travel letters to exit Egypt.

Dual Nationals:

• If a dual national has the annotation “Egyptian origin” on their entry visa, they will require proof of Egyptian citizenship in order to exit Egypt. 
• This is also true for dual nationals who remain in Egypt for more than six months.
• In some cases, if a dual national loses their U.S. passport, they will be required to present their parents’ Egyptian birth certificates and be documented as Egyptian citizens in order to obtain a temporary/replacement entry stamp to facilitate their travel out of Egypt.
• Male U.S. citizens who also hold Egyptian nationality, between 18-40 years old, who have stayed in Egypt more than 180 days, are required to finalize their Egyptian military status before departure, or risk being refused departure from Egypt by Egyptian Immigration officials. The U.S. Embassy is unable to intervene in these situations. For more information see: https://tagned.mod.gov.eg/ .

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

The Department of State Travel Advisory warns U.S. citizens to avoid travel to the Sinai Peninsula (with the exception of travel to Sharm El-Sheikh by air) and the Western Desert. Travel to the Libyan and Sudanese borders is also not recommended. U.S. citizens in Egypt should maintain a high level of vigilance throughout the country due to the threat of terrorism.

Between December 2018 and May 2019, terrorist incidents in tourist areas in greater Cairo killed four tourists and wounded at least 18 others. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, and have targeted diplomatic facilities, tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, western businesses, resorts, and local government facilities. There is a possibility of terrorist attacks in urban areas, including in Cairo, despite the heavy security presence. In August 2019, a car bomb explosion outside of a hospital in Cairo killed at least 20. Additionally, terrorists have targeted religious sites, to include mosques, churches, monasteries, and buses traveling to these locations.

The Egyptian government has attempted to address security concerns and has visibly augmented its security presence at tourist locations, but challenges persist, and the threat of terrorism remains. Police and military are also engaged in operations to combat terrorism and disrupt terrorist cells in the Sinai Peninsula and the Nile Valley.

• The Sinai Peninsula (with the exception of travel to Sharm El-Sheikh by air) due to terrorism.

The Sinai Peninsula remains a particularly dangerous area, with frequent terrorist attacks on security forces and civilians.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens anywhere in the Sinai Peninsula as U.S. government employees are not authorized to travel to these areas (with the exception of the beach resort of Sharm El-Sheikh; travel to Sharm El-Sheikh is only permitted by air).

• The Western Desert due to terrorism.
• Egyptian border areas other than official ports of entry.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Egypt’s borders are under military control; movement of non-military persons and vehicles is substantially restricted, and in some cases prohibited, within these areas. U.S. citizens should not travel in these border zones.

It is illegal to photograph police stations, military barracks, and certain other sensitive public buildings.

U.S. citizens are urged to remain alert to local security developments, avoid demonstrations, and be vigilant regarding their personal security at all times throughout the country. U.S. citizens should also carry identification and a cell phone or other means of communication that works in Egypt, and it is advisable to pre-program the U.S. Embassy’s telephone number (+20 2 2797-3300) and email address ( [email protected] ) into the device.

Travelers must obtain permission and a travel route from the Egyptian Military Intelligence and the Tourist Police Headquarters via a local or overseas travel agency to access Egypt's frontiers, including the borders with Libya, Sudan, Israel, and parts of the Sinai Peninsula off paved roads.

High concentrations of World War II-era unexploded landmines are located in the World War II battlefields along the Mediterranean coast west of Alexandria, the Eastern Desert between Cairo and the Suez Canal, and much of the Sinai Peninsula. Travelers are urged to be especially cautious in these areas.

Crime:  Crime levels in Cairo and Alexandria are moderate.

The vast majority of criminal acts against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, such as purse snatching and pickpocketing. 

Harassment of women, including foreigners, remains a serious problem. Incidents of harassment range from lewd comments and gestures to indecent exposure and inappropriate physical contact.

Tourists should be alert to being overcharged for various services and for being victimized in scams common to tourist destinations worldwide. Tourists should expect to encounter aggressive vendors at Egypt’s shops in urban areas, as well as at the many temples and archaeological sites. Some will offer “free” gifts to tourists which, once accepted, lead to demands for money. Most sites have specially designated tourist police who can assist in uncomfortable situations.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Egypt. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:

• Romance/Online dating
• Money transfers

The U.S. Embassy receives frequent reports of online financial scams, often involving a fraudulent romantic partner requesting money for hospital bills or legal expenses to depart Egypt. Be skeptical about sending money to anyone known only through online contact.

Victims of Crime:

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.

Report crimes to the local police at 122 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(20) 2-2797-3300. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. The Embassy cannot intervene in legal disputes.

Failure to report crimes before leaving Egypt will make it impossible to seek prosecution at a later date. U.S. citizen tourists can forward their complaints for investigation to the Tourist Police Headquarters. For crimes involving children, you may call Egypt’s Child Emergency Help line by dialing 16000 . Egypt’s National Council for Women provides some assistance to women who are victims of domestic violence, or other complaints, at phone number 15115 or website: http://www.oo-ncw.org .  

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

For further information:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
• Call the State Department in Washington at 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department's travel website .
•  Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook . 
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and adventure facilities may not frequently occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are not always able to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: Travelers are subject to local laws. The Egyptian legal system is different from the legal system in the United States, with significantly different standards of evidence, due process, and rule of law. Travelers should be conscious of their behavior and how it may be interpreted by Egyptian authorities. If one  violate local laws, even unknowingly, one may be denied entry, expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

• Egyptian police and security forces do not require probable cause in order to stop, question, and detain individuals. Failure to carry proper identification, such as a passport, may result in detention and questioning.
• Suspects may be detained without charges or access to immediate legal counsel for months during the investigative stage of a criminal case.
• U.S. citizens have been detained for several days or more in non-criminal cases, including immigration violations.
• Local laws prohibit protesting or demonstrating without a permit. Even being in the vicinity of anti-government protests can draw scrutiny from Egyptian police or security forces, including demands to search personal electronic devices. U.S. citizens have been detained for posting content on social media perceived as critical of Egypt or its allies.
• Punishments often can be harsher in Egypt for comparable crimes than they are in the United States. Penalties for drug offenses can be particularly severe, including life in prison or the death penalty.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Dual U.S.-Egyptian Citizens : Egyptian law considers dual nationals to be Egyptian citizens and thus the Egyptian authorities do not automatically notify the U.S. Embassy when a dual national is detained, or provide information about their alleged crime. Family members, friends, and/or traveling companions may notify the ACS Unit at U.S. Embassy Cairo if the arrested U.S. citizen is unable to do so. U.S. citizenship does not provide protection from detention or arrest by Egyptian authorities and individuals detained may be subjected to prolonged interrogations and extended detention.  U.S. citizens arrested for any reason in Egypt may be deported, even if they are not convicted of a crime.  Detained U.S.-Egyptian citizens have been asked by the Government of Egypt to renounce their Egyptian citizenship as a condition of their deportation to the United States.

Consular officers must obtain authorization from Egyptian authorities to visit American detainees.

• Entering or exiting Egypt with more than $10,000 is prohibited. Attempting to enter or depart Egypt with any instruments of currency in the sum of more than $10,000 could result in the confiscation of the money over $10,000 and other penalties.

Importation of all types of drones, including small civilian drones used for personal or touristic purposes is strictly prohibited. Potential penalties for violating are harsh, and a recently passed law authorizes the death penalty for using a drone in support of terrorist activity.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Cultural Property:  Travelers should note that Egyptian law prohibits the unauthorized removal of antiquities (including historic coins, ceramics, and architectural elements) both from archaeological sites and other sources in Egypt. Egyptian law also forbids the intentional damaging of antiquities, such as inscribing or painting on them or attaching advertisements. The trade, sale, or export in antiquities is also heavily restricted and regulated. Travelers may be prosecuted if found to be looting or damaging archaeological sites, buying antiquities, or smuggling antiquities out of Egypt. Penalties include fines and/or imprisonment.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the  Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report .

LGBTI Travelers: LGBTI individuals face significant social stigma and discrimination in Egypt. Egyptian law does not criminalize same-sex sexual activity, but LGBTI persons and advocacy groups have reported harassment, intimidation, arrests, and other forms of abuse, including by police. There are also reports that authorities have used social media, dating websites, and cell phone apps to entrap persons suspected of being gay or transgender in an act of “debauchery,” which is a criminal offense that carries sentences of up to 10 years. Police have confiscated rainbow flags and sometimes detained their owners. See our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and sections 1c and 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

ACCESSIBILITY:  While in Egypt, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from in the United States. Businesses and institutions in Egypt generally do not make special accommodations for persons with disabilities, and Egyptian authorities do not enforce laws mandating access to transportation, communication, and public buildings by persons with disabilities. Pedestrian sidewalks and walkways are limited, uneven, high, and sometimes used by cars and motorcycles.

Accommodations on public transportation are not offered for elderly individuals or persons with disabilities. Crosswalks are not in widespread use and motorists have the right of way. Pedestrians should exercise extreme caution.

Students:  See the  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  Many women travel safely each year without incident. However, when it comes to health and security, women travelers are more likely to be affected by religious and cultural beliefs of the foreign countries they visit. The truth is that women face greater obstacles, especially when travelling alone.

Women, especially those traveling alone, should exercise particular care in crowds, on public transportation, in rural areas, and in isolated sections of temple and pyramid complexes. Women have been groped in taxis and while in public places.

The Embassy continues to receive reports of U.S. citizen women subject to domestic violence, sexual harassment, verbal abuse, and rape in Egypt.

Some Egyptian NGOs provide assistance to victimized women within the Egyptian community. Women victimized overseas may be entitled to receive compensation for counseling and/or other services such as relocating back to the United States.

For further information see the travel tips for  Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Egypt, dial 123 .

Ambulance services are not widely available and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.

Insurance:  Travelers should make sure their health insurance plan covers them when outside of the United States.

• The U.S Embassy cannot pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare does not pay overseas.
• Doctors and hospitals often expect cash payment for health services.
• The U.S. Embassy strongly recommends  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation, since medical transport out of the country can be prohibitively expensive or logistically impossible. 
• See the webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage . 

Medical Care:

Emergency and intensive care facilities are limited. Most Nile cruise boats do not have a ship's doctor, but some employ a medical practitioner. Hospital facilities in Luxor, Aswan, and Sharm el Sheikh are adequate, but they are inadequate at most other ports-of-call. The Egyptian ambulance service hotline is 123. Although availability of ambulances is improving, getting them through Cairo traffic can be very challenging.

Beaches on the Mediterranean and Red Sea coasts are generally unpolluted. However, persons who swim in the Nile or its canals, walk barefoot in stagnant water, or drink untreated water are at risk of exposure to bacterial and other infections and the parasitic disease schistosomiasis (bilharzia).

It is generally safe to eat freshly prepared cooked food in hotels, on Nile cruise boats, and in mainstream restaurants. When selecting a restaurant, travelers should select a clean and reputable place, eat only freshly prepared, cooked foods, avoid all uncooked food including raw fruits and vegetables. Tap water in some locations is not potable. It is best to drink bottled water or water that has been boiled and filtered. Well-known brands of bottled beverages are generally considered to be safe if the seal is intact.

Although the Embassy cannot provide medical advice or provide medical services to the public,  a list of hospitals and doctors in Egypt  can be found on the Embassy website.

Prescriptions:  Travelers should carry prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. 

Vaccinations:  Travelers should be up-to-date on all recommended  vaccinations , per CDC’s information. 

Further Health Information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Traffic Laws:  Although the enforcement of traffic laws generally is lax, foreigners are subject to extra scrutiny and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs could result in arrest or detainment.

Road Conditions and Safety:  Driving in Egypt is extremely hazardous. Egypt has one of the highest occurrences of road fatalities per mile driven in the world. Intercity roads are generally in good condition, but unmarked surfaces, pedestrians, stray animals, sandstorms and fog, vehicles without lights, and disabled vehicles without reflectors are among the many hazards present on highways, especially after dark.

Driving Cairo’s busy maze of streets can be an extreme challenge to foreigners, especially those used to a culture of structured rules and regulations. Even residents of Cairo must use extreme care and situational awareness to navigate the capital’s hectic streets. Impatient drivers typically ignore traffic rules, which police seldom enforce. Most traffic lights in Cairo do not function; instead, police officers, using finger and hand movements to direct traffic, normally staff the main intersections.

Vehicle accidents remain a significant safety concern.

Visitors thinking about driving in Egypt should carefully consider other options, such as a taxi or hired driver. If visitors decide to drive, it is essential that they take the utmost precautions and drive defensively. Drivers should be prepared for unlit vehicles at night, few road markings, vehicles traveling at high rates of speed, vehicles traveling the wrong way on one-way streets, divided highways, and connecting ramps, pedestrians dodging in and out of traffic, and domesticated animals on the roadways. Motorists should be especially cautious during the rare winter rains, which can cause extremely slippery road surfaces and localized flooding; Egyptian drivers are not familiar with driving in wet conditions, making such periods particularly hazardous.

Pedestrians should also exercise extreme caution on high-volume/high-velocity streets, like Cairo’s Corniche, which follows the eastern bank of the Nile River, and Alexandria’s Corniche along the Mediterranean.

Public Transportation:  Public buses and microbuses are not safe, and Embassy personnel are prohibited from using them. Embassy personnel are also prohibited from traveling on Cairo’s metro system. Embassy personnel are prohibited from traveling by train, which is a particularly unsafe means of transportation, with regular accidents that sometimes involve mass casualties.

Embassy personnel are generally prohibited from traveling outside the greater Cairo and Alexandria areas by motor vehicle, with the exception of travel to beach resorts on the western side of the Red Sea and near Alexandria. Furthermore, Embassy policy prohibits personal travel via privately-owned vehicle to any part of the Sinai Peninsula or the Western Desert.

Please refer to our  Road Safety page  for more information.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT:   The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Egypt’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Egypt’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Egypt should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at the  Maritime Security Communications with Industry Web Portal . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and as a broadcast warning on the  National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency’s website . 

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .

Egypt was cited in the State Department’s 2023 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Egypt . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.”

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Do you need a visa to go to Egypt?

Sep 3, 2023 • 4 min read

Most travelers need a visa to visit Egypt, but you'll soon get to see the Pyramids of Giza © SrdjanPav / Getty Images

Almost all travelers require a visa to enter Egypt, but fortunately, the process is pretty simple, and a little advance planning goes a long way.

This guide will walk you through the entry requirements for visiting the land of pyramids on a tourist visa.

Who needs a visa to visit Egypt?

Most nationalities need a visa to enter Egypt, but citizens of many countries can apply for an e-Visa in advance or obtain a visa on arrival at Egypt’s international airports. Both cost US$25.

Getting an e-Visa is generally a smoother process than getting a visa at the airport. Apply for a tourist visa online in advance on  the Egyptian Government's official e-Visa website . All you have to do is fill out the online application form and pay.

If you decide to get a visa at the airport when you land in Egypt, be prepared to wait in line – bring your own pen to fill out the paperwork in line or on the plane – and pay in cash (US dollars, euros or British pounds only, not Egyptian pounds).

Citizens of Bahrain, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Macau, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates can enter Egypt visa-free for up to 90 days. Citizens of Malaysia can enter for up to 14 days.

If you're not eligible to get a visa on arrival or an e-Visa, head to the Egyptian embassy or consulate in your home country and apply in person. The visa process can take several weeks.

How to get an e-Visa for Egypt

To save time, apply for an e-Visa before your trip to Egypt. Citizens of these countries are eligible for Egypt’s e-Visa and can apply on the Egyptian government's official website . Your passport must be valid for at least six months before the date you intend to arrive. 

The process is simple: sign up for an account, fill the form and pay the US$25 using a credit or debit card. You’ll receive email notifications as the application is processed.  

If you’re issued a visa, you’ll be emailed a link to your e-Visa to download and print the document. When you land in Egypt, present the e-Visa to the Egyptian border patrol with your passport. Have a copy of your accommodation details or tour booking in case you’re asked to show them at the airport.

Egypt’s e-Visa can be single or multiple entry. The single-entry visa allows visitors one entry into the country for stays of up to 30 days. The multiple-entry visa allows travelers to come into  Egypt an unlimited number of times over a period of 180 days and for up to 30 days at a time. Apply for a multi-entry visa at least seven days before your trip.

Visa on arrival in Egypt

If you don’t have time to apply for an e-Visa, you can still get a visa on arrival at the airport if you’re eligible. Visas are available for purchase (US$25) at a kiosk in the arrivals hall before the immigration counters. 

Have the correct amount in cash in a major foreign currency (US dollars, euros or British pounds) to avoid delays.

The visa comes in the form of a stamp that you’ll need to put into your passport to present at the immigration counters and passport control. 

If you opt for a visa on arrival, you’ll need a passport that’s valid for at least six months from your arrival date, a travel itinerary and documentation to show you've booked accommodations or tours.

Visa on arrival is available at all of Egypt’s international airports. The downsides are that you can be issued a single entry visa only, and the lines at the airport can be long.

You don't need a visa to stay in Sinai on short trips

If you are visiting the resort towns on the Gulf of Aqaba coast and won’t be going to mainland Egypt, you can stay in Sinai for 14 days without buying an Egyptian visa. The Sinai-only visa allows travellers to visit Sharm El Sheikh , Dahab , Nuweiba , Taba and St Catherine, but you cannot go to Ras Muhammad National Park.

The Sinai-only visa is available at the airport in Sharm El Sheikh and the Egypt–Israel border crossing at Taba. If you arrive at Taba and plan to visit mainland Egypt, you must purchase a visa online in advance or at an Egyptian embassy abroad.

This article was first published Jun 26, 2022 and updated Sep 3, 2023.

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

Mar 12, 2024 • 4 min read

With tombs, pyramids and towering temples, Egypt brings out the explorer in all of us. This handy month-by-month guide shows the best time to visit Egypt.

Mar 4, 2024 • 4 min read

Jan 11, 2024 • 4 min read

Jan 2, 2024 • 11 min read

Dec 8, 2023 • 7 min read

Dec 5, 2023 • 4 min read

Nov 5, 2023 • 6 min read

Sep 4, 2023 • 5 min read

Aug 23, 2023 • 7 min read

Aug 18, 2023 • 9 min read

• Egypt Tourism
• Egypt Hotels
• Egypt Bed and Breakfast
• Egypt Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Egypt
• Egypt Restaurants
• Things to Do in Egypt
• Egypt Travel Forum
• Egypt Photos
• All Egypt Hotels
• Egypt Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Egypt
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

How many days do you need to see typical egypt destinations. - Egypt Forum

• Africa    
• Egypt    

How many days do you need to see typical egypt destinations.

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Africa forums
• Egypt forum

Hello guys,

I would like to know how many days do you need to see for the typical Egyptian cities?

we are planning for a 10 days trip ( excluding our arrival and depart days) is that enough to see the above cities and cover all the famous things?

Kindly, Help

With 10 days full days only i think you would do something like 2 days Cairo, 2 Luxor, one day drive to Aswan , 2 days Aswan, one if which is a day trip to Abu Simbel, then the remainder in Hurghada . That’s a quick visit to each city but you can see highlights.

You could do a Luxor-Aswan Nile cruise as an option, too. There are 3-4 day cruises that will include some of the Luxor and Aswan sites.

Ten full days will allow you to see some main highlights but not everything. Best to decide what interests you and then we can advise.

You could allocate the days as follows -

2 days for Aswan - one of which is needed for Abu Simbel.

4 days for Luxor - VOK's VOQ's, Karnak and Luxor Temples, Hatshepsut's and a couple of other sites

2 days Hurghada

If you can add a couple of days that would be even better.

Ten days is a reasonable to visit but you will be best to decide what you can’t miss and what you can sacrifice in order to see what you really want to see. Don’t forget the more towns you visit the more time you have to allocate to travelling.

Day 1- arrived late to CAI.

Day 2- Giza Dahshur and Saqqara (long day)

Day 3 Egypt Museum time visiting Coptic Christian area, some Mosques, e tc.

Overnight train to Aswan

Day 4Temples of Philae & Kalbsha, unfinished Obelisk, and high dam

Day 5. Super early departure to Abu Simbel, return to Aswan around lunch and board Dahabiya-- saw Temple of Kom Ombo and Gebel el Sisila

Day 6 Gebel el Sisila and Edfu

Day 7 arrive Esna, Karnak and Luxor Temples

Day 8 VOK Nobles Tombs, etc

Day 9 early departure to Abydos and then to Hurgada

Day 10-12 Hurgada

Day 13 back to CAI and home

#4 can you tell more about your Dahabiya trip. Looked like1/2 day then full day then another 1/2 day on the boat? What can you tell me about your sailing trip? What was the name and size of the boat and food and anything else? Thanks

P.s thank you everyone for your inputs. It was a great help for me.

The rooms were nice and comfortable. The rooms our kids stayed in were smaller but we had a room at the back of the boat with our own deck.. The staff was very friendly and the food delicious and tea was served every afternoon.

10 days would be ok with a good plan

specially if you book things in advance

hope you will enjoy

Can you tell me how to reach hurghada from luxor? and which are the coolest hotel in hurghada and places to visit there?

can you please give me the contact number of the guide which you used?

and one more thing if we dont travel with a guide will it be tough ???

• Beware of Subtle False promotion of Travel Agency "Atlys" 4:08 pm
• Snorkelling Sahl hasheesh 3:30 pm
• Worst experience ever in Hurghada airport 3:21 pm
• Hurgada Aladin hotel 3:17 pm
• Xmas at El Gouna 3:16 pm
• New Sphinx International Airport of Cairo 1:50 pm
• Thanks but had to cancel 😢 12:49 pm
• Does Uber eats work in Cairo 10:40 am
• Itinerary for Luxor 9:23 am
• Movenpick Resort ongoing work and Naama bay alternative 9:06 am
• Transit time at Cairo airport, 1 hr 30 mins 8:59 am
• Visit beach after sunset 7:53 am
• Pyramid Opening times 7:01 am
• Cairo to Luxor by bus 6:39 am
• Best places to visit 22 replies
• What To Buy In Egypt? (not the usual souvenirs) 2 replies
• Do we need jabs for egypt 10 replies
• Safe to Travel to Egypt January 2013 49 replies
• Abercrombie and Kent Tours-Advice Please 11 replies
• Nile Cruise/MS Serenade 3 replies
• Beautiful, sandy beaches near (ish) to Cairo. Where? 11 replies
• Best beaches in Egypt 7 replies
• Egypt Air Baggage Limits 6 replies
• Price of beer & wine 9 replies
• Welcome to the Egypt Forum
• *** The HELP Centre***
• Boat Reviews
• Cruises - General Info.
• DIY Tripreports 2022
• DIY Travel Reports 2023
• Drones into Egypt - If you must
• Entrance Fees 2020 - NOTE - MOST have been increased!!!
• Public Transport links
• Restricted Mobility Travel
• Sound & Light shows

Antiguo Testamento

• How long it took the Israelites to journey to the promised land from Egypt.

| Leave a comment

Find out how to calculate the time it took Moses and the people of Israel to travel to the Promised Land from Egypt, based on biblical evidence.

How do we know how long it took Moses and the people of Israel to travel to the Promised Land from Egypt? What is the indicator that allows us to calculate the elapsed time?

Short answer

We usually answer quickly that the journey to the Promised Land took the Israelites forty years. This time is calculated based on the internal evidence provided by the Bible.

Often, when we answer that the people of Israel spent forty years in the wilderness, we imagine that this was the time it took to travel directly from Egypt to the land of Canaan. In reality, both lands were not that far away, but three important circumstances occurred:

• Before the people of Israel entered the promised land they had to prepare themselves spiritually. To that end the journey began in the opposite direction, southward, to reach Mount Sinai, where they would receive the Law of Moses (and the Ten Commandments) and at the foot of which the tabernacle would be built. The Israelites invested little more than a year in all these efforts.
• The people sinned against God when they worshipped the golden calf and showed in other similar ways their lack of spiritual maturity, so God prevented the first generation from entering the Promised Land, providing room for the next generation to grow.
• The people camped and wandered in the wilderness of Zin for most of the forty years mentioned. When the second generation was ready, they had to go around to the east (where Jericho was located) and cross the Jordan before reaching Canaan.

How to count the time of the journey to the promised land

In order for you to clearly identify the main events that comprised this long journey of forty years, I provide you with the following table. Consult for yourself the references in your own scriptures to locate the dates for each event of the journey to the Promised Land. Make notes in the margin of your printed scriptures or using the Gospel Library notes tool.

Although we do not have a record of every event that occurred in the forty years it took the Israelites to journey to the Promised Land, it is easy to observe that they are not uniformly described to us. The scriptures provide much detail about the first two years, which constituted the preparation of the first generation, until their failure to obey God’s commandments in faith. They are silent about the preparatory years of the second generation, and we know of them rather from the summary provided by Moses in Deuteronomy. The Israelites were wandering in the wilderness for most of forty years, some thirty-seven or thirty-eight years, while the next generation was ready. This may constitute a valuable lesson for us on the importance of obeying, from the first time, the advice provided by God through their leaders.

Artículos relacionados

• Cuánto tiempo tomó a los israelitas el viaje a la tierra prometida desde Egipto
• Qué es y dónde se encuentra el Monte Sinaí
• Lo que debes saber sobre Sin, en la Biblia
• Lo que debes saber sobre Migdol, en la Biblia

Israel’s war on Gaza updates: 40-day ceasefire offered to Hamas, says UK

Egypt and US ‘hopeful’ of ceasefire as Hamas delegation heads to Cairo for talks that aim to stop Israel’s looming Rafah offensive.

This live page is now closed. You can continue to follow our coverage of the war in Gaza here.

• At least 27 Palestinians, including many children and women, killed in overnight Israeli attacks on Rafah and Gaza City.
• Egypt’s foreign minister says he is “hopeful” about a new proposal for a Gaza ceasefire.
• US Secretary of State says he is hopeful Hamas will accept an “extraordinarily generous” offer, as UK Foreign Minister David Cameron says it will include a 40-day ceasefire.
• Hardline Israeli ministers are warning PM Netanyahu his government will collapse if a truce is agreed with Hamas in exchange for captives.
• At least 34,488 Palestinians killed and 77,643 wounded in Israeli attacks on Gaza since October 7. The revised death toll in Israel from Hamas’s October 7 attacks stands at 1,139, with dozens of people still held captive in Gaza.

That’s a wrap from us

Thank you for joining us for updates on everything related to Israel’s war on Gaza.

For more news, analysis and opinion on the conflict, click  here .

A look at what happened today

We will be closing this live page soon. Here’s a quick recap from today:

• The US said the ICC has no jurisdiction over Israel’s war on Gaza.
• Pro-Palestinian student protesters at Columbia University have defied a deadline, which has left them with an ultimatum to either leave the campus encampment or face suspension.
• Yemen’s Houthi rebels have claimed attacks on two vessels and two US destroyers, the group’s military spokesman Yahya Sarea said.
• The Israeli army has said two reservists were killed in central Gaza yesterday.
• A Hamas delegation has left Cairo, where it was discussing Israel’s response to a potential ceasefire proposal.
• The US and the UK have said the potential deal is a “generous” offer of a sustained 40-day ceasefire in Gaza in exchange for the release of captives.

Search for survivors after Jabalia refugee camp bombing

The Wafa news agency is reporting that the eastern parts of the Jabalia refugee camp in northern Gaza have come under Israeli bombardment.

A video shared on social media by photographer Mahmoud Shelha, and verified by Al Jazeera, shows residents and rescuers searching for survivors under collapsed concrete slabs.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mahmoud._.shalha20 (@mahmoud._.shalha20)

Translation: Ambulances and rescue workers arrived at the scene after occupation planes carried out a series of raids on as-Sikka Street, in the east of Jabalia refugee camp.

Hamas delegation leaves Egypt after ceasefire talks

A senior Hamas delegation has reportedly left Egypt’s capital Cairo where it was discussing a ceasefire proposal with mediators, Egyptian media reported.

Hamas has repeatedly said it will not accept a deal that does not include a permanent ceasefire and a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza – which have been major sticking points in negotiations.

Earlier, the US secretary of state claimed that the Israeli proposal was an “extraordinarily generous” offer, while Egypt’s foreign minister said he was “hopeful” about a new proposal.

UK Foreign Minister David Cameron said the potential deal would include a 40-day ceasefire in exchange for the release of captives from Gaza.

“Stopping the attacks against Palestinians is not generous. The attack itself is a crime, so when you stop a crime, you can’t claim that it’s a generous action from the Israeli side,” senior Hamas official Osama Hamdan told Al Jazeera.

Houthis claim attack on two vessels, two US destroyers

Yemen’s Houthis targeted two US destroyers and the vessel CYCLADES in the Red Sea as well as the MSC Orion in the Indian Ocean, the group’s military spokesman Yahya Sarea said.

The Houthis, who control the most populated parts of Yemen, have carried out dozens of attacks on vessels with commercial ties to the US, the UK and Israel in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden since November.

The group says the attacks are a response to Israel’s assault on Gaza.

US advocacy groups back Palestine solidarity campus protests

Several faith, civil rights and progressive groups have expressed solidarity with university students protesting US support for Israel.

“We commend the students who are exercising their right to protest peacefully despite an overwhelming atmosphere of pressure, intimidation and retaliation, to raise awareness about Israel’s assault on Gaza – with US weapons and funding,” the organisations said.

The statement, backed by nearly 190 groups, highlights the growing progressive support for the campus protest movement despite crackdowns by university administrators and law enforcement agencies.

Read our full story here .

What would ICC arrest warrants against Netanyahu mean for Israel?

Israel’s Prime Minister Netanyahu says nobody will stop Israel’s military actions – not even the International Criminal Court (ICC) which is investigating the country’s operations in Gaza and the occupied West Bank and could issue warrants for the arrest of Netanyahu and other Israeli leaders.

Watch more below:

Rafah residents say can’t create safe zone in a war zone

Reporting from Rafah, southern Gaza

Despite the ongoing talks and progress made in Cairo for a potential ceasefire, people are still very cautious because they still have to deal with this intense bombing campaign that has been going on for the past 24 hours.

There has been an intense surge in air attacks and artillery shelling of not only Rafah City, but the remaining eastern part of the Gaza Strip. We’re looking at at least three atrocities committed against displaced families in Rafah and other parts of the Gaza Strip.

At least 43 people have been killed, and 26 of those who have been killed in overnight attacks and throughout the day happen to be from Rafah City.

There are reports of people still stuck under the rubble. There is also the inability of civil defence crews and paramedics and volunteers to reach those who might have survived these attacks.

It is increasingly becoming difficult to live in Rafah. One thing that the residents keep repeating here is that you can’t create a safe zone in a war zone.

European, Arab FMs meet in Riyadh to resuscitate two-state solution

European and Arab foreign ministers met in the Saudi Arabian capital on Monday to discuss how to join forces on advancing a two-state solution.

“If we want to move this two-state solution forward, it will not happen from the parties. I do not believe that Israel is ready to negotiate at this point, and I do not think that the US is ready to take the necessary leadership,” Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide, one of the organisers of the meeting, told reporters. “So I think an Arab-European leadership is the best we can hope for.”

The meeting took place on the sidelines of a two-day World Economic Forum (WEF) special meeting in Riyadh, which was largely devoted to the war on Gaza.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud was among the leaders who told the WEF meeting that tangible and irreversible steps towards establishing a Palestinian state would be an essential component of any deal for a durable ceasefire.

“The continued rejection of the two-state solution will inevitably undermine the security and stability of the region,” Prince Faisal said at the start of the European-Arab meeting.

‘We will not be silenced’, says University of Texas student protester

Hadi, a student and one of the protesters at the University of Texas in Austin in the United States, says the school is trying to “censor us”.

“We are seeing the illusion of American freedom, the illusion of American freedom of speech, crumbling behind us,” Hadi told Al Jazeera from the scene of the university encampment, where police are arresting dozens of students.

“The system and this university have decided to showcase that they would rather subjugate, oppress and silence students than allow us to have a peaceful demonstration where we hope to educate each other,” he said. “We will not be silenced.”

Students are calling for an end to Israel’s assault on Gaza and for the university to divest and stop all funding and investments tied to Israel.

Seattle students join protests, pitch tents

Pro-Palestine protesters pitched a handful of tents on the University of Washington campus in Seattle, joining other universities across the US in denouncing Israel’s war on Gaza.

According to the Reuters news agency, approximately two dozens students pitched tents on the quad, next to “no camping” signs that appeared over the weekend.

A few pro-Israel protesters stopped by and filmed while tents were being erected, but no altercations occurred.

If you’re just joining us

Here’s a look at the recent developments:

• The US says the ICC has no jurisdiction over Israel’s war on Gaza.
• An Italian navy ship shot down a drone fired by Yemen’s Houthi group that was aimed at European cargo.
• The Israeli army said two reservists were killed in central Gaza yesterday.
• The US Department of State has said it found five units of the Israeli military responsible for human rights violations in incidents that took place outside Gaza before October.
• Relatives of captives held in Gaza have protested in front of the Defence Ministry in Tel Aviv, calling for a deal with Hamas.

LISTEN: Will the ICC issue arrest warrants for Israeli officials?

All eyes are on the International Criminal Court.

It’s investigating Israel’s actions in Gaza and the occupied West Bank. Israeli officials fear it’s preparing to issue arrest warrants against Prime Mininster Benjamin Netanyahu and other senior figures.

So what would legal action mean for the country and its leaders?

Listen to our Inside Story Podcast below:

Biden speaks to Egyptian, Qatari leaders in push for Gaza deal

The Egyptian president received a phone call from US President Joe Biden to discuss the latest developments in negotiations regarding a ceasefire in Gaza and the dangers of a military escalation in Rafah, a statement from Egypt’s presidency said.

It added that the call also touched on the exchange of Israeli captives for Palestinian prisoners, a main sticking point in any comprehensive ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel.

A Hamas delegation is currently in Cairo to deliberate on Israel’s response to a ceasefire deal.

President Biden also spoke to Qatar’s emir on Monday about efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza.

Arrests of protesters ‘ongoing’ at University of Texas

Hundreds of Texas state troopers have arrested students protesting against Israel’s assault on Gaza at the University of Texas in Austin in the US.

Demonstrators have been told to leave by the university, but they have defied orders to do so.

Al Jazeera’s Heidi Zhou-Castro, reporting from the scene, said arrests are “continuing and ongoing”.

“Now, the sheriff’s department has showed up with a large bus that they are filling now with arrested protesters,” she said.

Within the encampment, protesters are sitting “with their arms linked, in defiance of the call from the university to disperse”, Zhou-Castro said, adding that people at the scene said there is an “overly heavy police response”.

According to Zhou-Castro said, there was “no sort of violence, no sort of anti-Semitic chanting, leading up to this police response”.

UPDATE: dozens of state troopers have just arrived to @UTAustin . pic.twitter.com/er2uq1rcLy — Lily Kepner (@lilykepner) April 29, 2024

Parents and guardians of NYU students slam university president in open letter

Almost 600 “parents, guardians and loved ones” of students at New York University have criticised NYU President Linda Mills’s response to the student-led pro-Palestine demonstrations, as universities across the US step up rallies protesting Israel’s assault on Gaza.

In an open letter addressed to Mills, parents and guardians said they are “concerned and disturbed” by the reaction of the university to the “Gaza Solidarity Encampment”.

“Our number one priority is the safety of our children and their freedom of expression,” the letter read.

“The lies you are pushing infuriate and deeply alarm us,” the letter added, referring to an email reportedly sent by Mills. The email is “a betrayal of trust and a blatant attempt to deflect accountability for the university’s violent and horrific actions”, the parents said.

More than 100 protesters, including students and faculty members, were arrested by police at the encampment last week.

“We have not been offered any proof of an incident of intimidation, unsafe behavior, or antisemitism that you touted to justify the brutalization of our students,” the parents said in their joint letter.

“It was Linda Mills and NYU, who authorised riot police to arrest our students, that created a dangerous and violent situation,” they added, describing the arrests as brutal and disproportionate.

US says ICC has no jurisdiction over Israel’s war on Gaza

A US State Department spokesman has said the International Criminal Court (ICC) has no jurisdiction over Israel’s war on Gaza.

“Since this president has come into office, we have worked to reset our relationship with the ICC and we are in contact with the court on a range of issues, including in connection to the court’s important work on Darfur, on Ukraine, on Sudan as well,” Vedant Patel said.

“But on this investigation, our position is clear. We continue to believe that the ICC does not have jurisdiction over the Palestinian situation.”

Israel is not a member of the ICC and does not recognise its jurisdiction, but the Palestinian territories were admitted with the status of a member state in 2015.

In October, ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan said the court had jurisdiction over any potential war crimes committed by Israeli forces in the Gaza Strip.

“The ICC is an independent organisation and their efforts are being undertaken without any contact or interference by the US,” US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield told reporters on Monday.

The US – Israel’s closest ally – is also not a member of the court. A White House spokesperson said later on Monday that “the ICC has no jurisdiction in this situation, and we do not support its investigation”.

Protesters defy Columbia University’s deadline

Pro-Palestinian student demonstrators at Columbia University have defied a 2pm (18:00 GMT) deadline after they were faced with an ultimatum to either sign a form and leave their protest encampment or face suspension.

The notice sent on Monday by the university in New York City to protesters in the encampment said that if they left by the deadline and signed a form committing to abide by university policies through June 2025 or an earlier graduation, they could finish the semester in good standing. If not, the letter said, they will be suspended, pending further investigation.

Protesters met the deadline with chanting, clapping and drumming from the encampment of more than 300 people. No officials appeared to enter the encampment, with at least 120 tents staying up as the deadline passed.

Colleges around the US had implored a wave of pro-Palestinian student rallies to clear out tent encampments. College classes are wrapping up for the semester, and campuses are preparing for graduation ceremonies, giving schools an extra incentive to clear encampments.

DISCLOSE! DIVEST! WE WILL NOT STOP, WE WILL NOT REST!! ❤️‍🔥 Hundreds of Columbia University students are gathered for an emergency rally to protect the Gaza Solidarity Encampment. We will continue until our demands are met. We will not be intimidated. #cu4Palestine pic.twitter.com/QNPeDhuVcq — Columbia Students for Justice in Palestine (@ColumbiaSJP) April 29, 2024

Italian navy shoots down Houthi drone in the Red Sea

An Italian navy ship shot down a drone fired by Yemen’s Houthi group that was targeting a European cargo, the Italian Ministry of Defence has said.

The drone was intercepted “in the late morning” near the Bab al-Mandeb Strait at the southern end of the Red Sea, the ministry said. It was taken down 5km (3.1 miles) from the cargo ship.

The cargo was targeted by other drones and missiles, with one missile exploding in water near it, causing only superficial damage, the ministry said.

The Italian frigate Virginio Fasan and the cargo it was escorting are proceeding southwards on their planned route to exit from the Red Sea, the statement added.

Houthi rebels have repeatedly launched drones and missiles against international commercial shipping in the area, saying they are acting in solidarity with Palestinians against Israel’s war on Gaza.

Two Israeli soldiers killed in Gaza

The Israeli army has said that two reservists were killed in the central Gaza Strip yesterday.

This brings the Israeli troop death toll to 263, the army said.

The two soldiers were killed and another soldier was seriously wounded in the Netzarim Corridor area, the army said.

Hamas’s Qassam Brigades issued a statement yesterday saying it had set up an ambush for Israeli soldiers that led to the killing and injuring of several reservists.

al-Quds Brigades claims rocket attacks on southern Israel

The armed wing of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad says it fired rockets from Gaza towards Israeli cities.

The group said that it “bombed ‘Sderot’, ‘Niram’, and the settlements surrounding the Gaza Strip in response to the crimes of the Zionist enemy against our people”.

Local media reported the Israeli army as saying a rocket fired towards Sderot was intercepted.

WATCH: ‘The encampment fills me with hope for a Palestinian future’

Us found five israeli military units responsible for gross rights violations.

The US Department of State says it found five units of the Israeli military responsible for gross human rights violations in incidents that took place outside Gaza before Israel’s latest assault on the enclaved began in October.

Four of the units have effectively remediated the violations, while Israel has submitted additional information regarding the fifth unit and the US is continuing conversations with the government, a State Department deputy spokesperson told reporters.

Qatar FM meets Blinken in Riyadh

In a read-out, the Qatari foreign ministry said the two officials focused on regional and international efforts aimed at an immediate ceasefire, the release of captives and detainees, and allowing humanitarian aid into the besieged coastal enclave in its entirety in a sustainable manner.

The Qatari official called on all concerned parties to exercise restraint, stressing the need for joint action to de-escalate and resolve differences peacefully.

Families of captives protest in Tel Aviv for a deal

Relatives of captives held in Gaza are protesting in front of the Ministry of Defence in Tel Aviv, calling for a deal with Hamas.

The families called on the government to work on releasing the captives, even if the price was ending the war, Israeli media reported.

The demonstrations come in light of footage released by the Qassam Brigades showing two Israeli captives demanding that the Netanyahu government work to release them, and saying that they are living in difficult conditions under Israeli bombardment.

• International

May 4, 2024 - Israel-Gaza news

By Rob Picheta, Thom Poole, Amarachi Orie and Adrienne Vogt, CNN

The reality of life for displaced children in Rafah

Over 1 million displaced Palestinians remain on edge in the southernmost Gaza city of Rafah, where Israel has been threatening a major ground offensive for months. For most, there is simply nowhere else to go in the strip — and reoccurring Israeli strikes have put children in harm's way.

A 4-year-old and 2-year-old from one family were killed by an Israeli airstrike Tuesday, and their parents were seriously injured. The family was displaced multiple times and ended up living in a tent in Rafah, according to their grandmother.

"This is who they are targeting. This is the 'safe Rafah' they talk about," says the uncle of a 1-year-old who was killed earlier in the week, holding up the child's body.

Volunteer teacher Yasmeen Abu Matar says children are experiencing a distressed mental state, have no stability and lose focus easily.

"We work twice as hard to try and grab their attention and help them learn," she says from a tent school.

Status of possible Israeli operation: Israeli officials briefed US officials in recent days about their latest thinking on how to evacuate civilians from Rafah , according to two sources familiar with those conversations. What was shared did not resemble a final plan and only focused on the movement of civilians out of Rafah.

Watch the report below to see how children are living in Rafah (Warning: Graphic images may be disturbing for some viewers.):

CNN's Paula Hancocks contributed to this report.

Bad weather has delayed the US military's construction of a pier for aid deliveries to Gaza

From CNN's Natasha Bertrand

United States defense officials have had to pause the construction of a pier facilitating humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza due to high winds and sea swells.

The temporary pause was necessary because the weather conditions were making it unsafe for soldiers to work on the surface of the partially constructed pier, US Central Command said in a statement.

Construction on the pier began last week.

Construction has now moved to the Port of Ashdod, one of Israel’s three main cargo ports north of Gaza, CENTCOM said. Assembly will continue there, and the system will move back to its intended location when conditions improve.

CNN previously reported that as many as 1,000 US troops will be involved in the construction of the pier system known as Joint Logistics Over the Shore, or JLOTS, which — when finished and fully operational — could provide as many as 150 trucks of aid per day to the starving population in Gaza.

US officials previously hoped the JLOTS system would be fully built by Friday.

Once the pier system is up and running, a massive container ship called the Sagamore will be the first vessel to begin ferrying humanitarian aid from Cyprus to the pier, defense officials told CNN. The Sagamore is over 600 feet long, or nearly the length of two football fields.

Humanitarian aid is desperately needed in Gaza, where a tight Israeli siege has left many of the enclave's 2.2 million people facing catastrophic levels of hunger .

US and Israeli officials say finalizing any ceasefire deal could take days

From CNN’s Jeremy Diamond and Kevin Liptak

As negotiators meet in Cairo on Saturday, US and Israeli officials say any potential agreement on a framework that would pair a temporary ceasefire with a release of hostages in Gaza would likely be followed by continued negotiations over the finer details of the deal. 

A final deal between the two parties is expected to take several more days to negotiate. Negotiators have made progress on the technical aspects of a potential deal, but two Israeli sources say it could take a week to finalize the deal itself.

A US official echoed this point Saturday, saying even if Hamas accepts the deal as proposed, it would take several more days to hammer out some of the details that would eventually result in a truce. Those discussions could also be difficult and stretched out. American officials continue to view the talks with cautious optimism, describing progress but still mindful that previous efforts have fallen apart at the last minute.

As Hamas met with mediators in Cairo on Saturday, Mossad Director David Barnea remained in Israel. But Israeli sources said he could quickly head to Egypt if Hamas agrees to the framework.

CIA Director Bill Burns, who has acted as a key interlocutor for the United States in the multiparty talks, is in Cairo, a person familiar with the matter says.

CNN has reached out to other mediators in the negotiations.

CNN’s MJ Lee, Alex Marquardt, Kareem Khadder, Mostafa Salem and Eve Brennan contributed to this report.

What we know about the number of hostages still held in Gaza

From CNN’s Larry Register, Richard Greene and Tim Lister

Israeli officials believe 128 hostages taken in the October 7 attacks  remain in Gaza, and that at least 34 of them are dead.

The Israel Defense Forces said Friday that the remains of Elyakim Libman, who had been classified as a hostage in Gaza, were found in Israeli territory.

Israel officially considers people to be hostages, even if they are dead, until their remains are returned. 

Not all the hostages are Israeli citizens. Eight are Thai and one is Nepali.

The total number of hostages provided by Israel's military has fluctuated in the months since the attack, based on its latest intelligence.

There are an additional four hostages, two of whom are dead, who have been held in Gaza since before October 7, according to the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office.

Hostage negotiations: A Hamas delegation has arrived in Cairo Saturday to resume hostage and ceasefire talks.

The latest framework, which Israel helped craft but has not fully agreed to, calls for the release of 20 to 33 hostages over several weeks in exchange for a temporary ceasefire and the release of Palestinian prisoners. That would be followed by what sources described as the "restoration of sustainable calm," during which the remaining hostages, captive Israeli soldiers, and bodies of hostages would be exchanged for more Palestinian prisoners.

Haunted by their colleagues’ deaths: The journalists risking their lives to report on Gaza

From CNN's Antoinette Radford, Sana Noor Haq and Abdel Qadder Al-Sabbah

“Whoever stays until the end, will tell the story. We did what we could. Remember us.”

Dr. Mahmoud Abu Nujaila scrawled these farewell words in blue ink on a whiteboard in Al-Awda Hospital, in Jabalya, on October 20, according to Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders).

When Israel launched its military offensive in Gaza after the Hamas-led October 7 attacks, many local journalists stayed – risking their lives to tell the stories of their people. After more than 200 days of fighting, Israeli bombardment has turned neighborhoods into rubble. Families have been torn apart by deaths and  forced displacement ; the  threat of starvation  looms. At the same time, 129 of the more than 250 hostages seized from Israel by Hamas remain captive in the territory, of whom at least 34 are thought to be dead.

Trapped in the strip alongside their fellow Gaza residents, Palestinian reporters have become the eyes and ears of those suffering under the shadow of war. And with foreign media largely unable to enter, it is their photos, footage and reporting, often gathered at great personal risk, that have shown the world what is happening.

At least 97 journalists and media workers have been killed since October – 92 of whom were Palestinian – according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). This makes it the deadliest period for journalists since 1992, when the CPJ started collecting data.

Read the full story here.

Hamas delegation arrives in Egypt for ceasefire and hostage deal talks

From CNN’s Kareem Khadder, Mostafa Salem and Eve Brennan 

A Hamas delegation has arrived in Egypt for further talks on a possible ceasefire and hostage deal, a member of the group's political bureau told CNN Saturday. 

Egyptian state-affiliated Al-Qahera News also reported that a Hamas delegation has arrived, citing a senior Egyptian official, claiming that there was "noticeable progress" in discussions.

Al-Qahera News cited the official, saying Egyptian mediators are approaching a "consensus formula on many points of disagreement."

CNN has reached out to other mediators in the negotiations.  

On Friday, Hamas said on Telegram that it would send a delegation to Cairo on Saturday with a “positive spirit” to continue discussions on the recent ceasefire and hostage release proposal, “determined to finalize the agreement to meet our people's demands.”

However, an Israeli source familiar with the negotiations told CNN Friday that Israel still has not yet gotten word that Hamas has changed its “extreme” positions.

Also in Cairo is CIA Director Bill Burns , a source familiar with the negotiations told CNN Friday. He has acted as a key interlocutor for the United States in the multiparty talks between Israel, Hamas, Egypt and Qatar.

CNN’s Jeremy Diamond in Jerusalem, Eyad Kourdi and Larry Register contributed reporting.

Gaza death toll reaches 34,654, Ministry of Health says

From CNN's Kareem Khadder

The death toll in the Gaza Strip has risen to at least 34,654 as a result of 211 days of Israeli military operations in the territory, the Ministry of Health in Gaza reported Saturday.

The ministry added that 32 Palestinians were killed in Israeli attacks in the last 24 hours.

Additionally, the ministry reported that 41 people had been injured over the same period, bringing the total number of wounded in the Gaza Strip since the conflict began to 77,908.

The ministry does not distinguish between casualties among civilians and Hamas fighters.

CNN cannot independently verify the ministry's casualty figures due to the lack of international media access to Gaza.

According to the latest data from The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) on Friday, the conflict has resulted in over 10,000 women in Gaza being killed and 19,000 injured.

At least 9 killed in Gaza as Israeli airstrikes target residential buildings, Gaza authorities say

From CNN's Kareem Khadder, Mohammad Al-Sawalhi, and Tamar Michaelis

Deadly Israeli airstrikes have hit residential buildings across Gaza, killing nine people.

Three people were killed and several were injured, including two children, after an Israeli airstrike targeted two residential buildings east of Rafah, according to a Gaza General Directorate of Civil Defense statement.

The Israel Defense Forces released a statement Saturday has confirmed hitting targets, saying it "is operating to dismantle Hamas military and administrative capabilities," and that "the IDF follows international law and takes feasible precautions to mitigate civilian harm."

Israeli airstrikes have been targeting Rafah, where at least 1.2 million displaced Palestinians are sheltering, for weeks ahead of an anticipated ground offensive. 

Elsewhere, in northern Gaza, three people were killed and three injured after an Israeli airstrike targeted a family home in Jabalya in the early hours of Saturday morning. 

In another instance, three people were killed, including a woman, in an Israeli airstrike that hit a family home east of Al-Nuseirat Camp in central Gaza on Friday at midnight, according to the director-general at Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, Iyad Issa Abu Zaher. 

CNN has reached out to the IDF about the specific airstrikes reported in northern and central Gaza. 

Please enable JavaScript for a better experience.