Planning a trip to Egypt is a lot like stepping into a real-life history book, except with better weather and a lot more adventure. With its iconic pyramids, bustling cities, and tranquil desert landscapes, Egypt has something for every type of traveler. But let’s get real – a trip to this ancient land requires a bit of planning to ensure that you truly make the most of your experience. So don’t worry; here’s a guide that will help in planning the perfect trip to Egypt.
Decide the Perfect Time to Visit
Timing is everything, right? The best time to visit Egypt would be between October and April. Why? During this period, the temperatures are really cool and comfortable for touring those famous ancient sites. Of course, summer tends to be really hot, reaching up to hundreds of degrees, which is not exactly ideal for sightseeing.
Visiting during the off-season – be it late spring or early fall – will not have as many crowds. This will give you more space to get that picture postcard of the pyramids, and generally, prices for accommodations and tours will be lower. Win-win!
Key Destinations to Include in Your Itinerary
Now, let’s see where to go. Egypt is completely filled with breathtaking places to see, so you are going to have to prioritize what you really want to see. And if planning all of that on your own seems overwhelming, you can always check an extensive Egypt 8-day itinerary and consult a local agency for some help. Nevertheless, here are some places that should end up on your list:
Cairo would be a no-brainer: Pyramids of Giza plus the Sphinx, simply because these are the things we all think about when we think of Egypt. Next, delve deep into the treasures of King Tut and other various ancient wonders with the Egyptian Museum. Don’t forget to stroll through the colorful chaos found in the Khan El Khalili market.
If you are a history buff, then Luxor is the place to be. Known as the world’s greatest open-air museum, it is home to the Valley of the Kings, where Tutankhamun and many other pharaohs were buried. Also, you can enjoy the views of Karnak Temple, one of the biggest religious towers ever built.
If you want a more laid-back atmosphere, then go to Aswan. Go on a leisurely Nile cruise to see the magnificent Temple of Philae and, if feeling up to it, take the day trip to the breathtaking Abu Simbel temples.
If beach time is on your agenda, the Red Sea coast is a great place to snorkel, dive, or simply have some fun. Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh are both spots with clear waters and great coral reefs, along with a plentiful supply of places to relax.
Choose a Place to Sleep
Egypt offers everything from luxury hotels to hostels for the budget-conscious. Five-star views of the pyramids or comfortable guesthouses in Cairo give you the feeling of being at home. For families and those wanting an extravagant experience, all-inclusive Red Sea resorts are the place: there are many pools to choose from, lots of activities, and beaches on which to lounge around.
For a more unique experience, consider booking a Nile cruise. Many of these boats offer comfortable cabins, great food, and, of course, the chance to float past some of Egypt’s most famous landmarks.
How to Get Around
Getting around Egypt is easier than you might think. Domestic flights provide a quick, relatively inexpensive way of traveling between cities such as Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Trains are another option, particularly for the scenic routes along the Nile.
If you want your time to be as flexible as possible, hire a private driver or guide. This is quite useful if you happen to travel with kids or in some group setup. For shorter distances within cities, you can always get into a taxi or even use Uber while in Cairo; it’s super convenient!
Must-Know Travel Tips
Before you pack your bags, here are a few important travel tips:
- Visa Requirements: Citizens of most countries will need a visa to enter Egypt. Fortunately, one can obtain it upon arrival or apply online in advance as an e-visa.
- Currency: Egyptian pound (EGP); while cash is still king in many places, major credit cards have become fairly common in bigger hotels and restaurants.
- Safety: Generally, Egypt is safe for tourists, but just like anywhere in the world, take note of your whereabouts. The well-known places are best to stick with, and if possible, avoid extremely crowded ones.
- Dress Code: Although Egypt is relatively laid back, especially in the tourist places, it would be advisable to dress modestly in order to show respect for the culture of the area. This is highly relevant when visiting religious sites.
Things Not to Be Missed
It is a land of lifetime experiences, and once you are there, you definitely don’t want to miss the following sights and activities:
- Nile Cruise: Sailing down the Nile is one of the quintessential experiences a person can ever have while traveling in Egypt. You get to see the temples, small villages, and nice views of your floating hotel.
- Camel Ride at the Pyramids: This is touristy, but taking a camel ride around the pyramids is one of those things one absolutely needs to do once. Just make sure to settle the price in advance.
- Snorkeling in the Red Sea: Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-timer, the coral reefs in the Red Sea are some of the best in the world. Be sure to pack your snorkeling gear.
- Shopping at Local Bazaars: Souvenir shopping? Deep dive into the midst of pulsating local bazaars – like Khan El Khalili – handcrafted jewelry, spices, and a lot more that you can possibly take home.
Planning a trip to Egypt is not always a nightmare. A little bit of preparation is all one needs to create the ultimate adventure packed with historical, cultural, fun, and relaxing moments. From a cruise on the Nile to snorkeling in the Red Sea and exploration of ancient temples, there is something for every kind of traveler in Egypt. Now, let the planning of your perfect Egyptian getaway begin! It’s time those travel dreams came true!
