How to Plan a Trip to Egypt 2025/2026
Egypt boasts mature tourism services and abundant tourism resources, such as the pyramids, the Sphinx, the Nile River, the Red Sea, the Siwa Oasis, ancient temples, and so on. But how to plan a trip to Egypt, making it safe and comfortable? Follow this article to learn the necessary information.
Best Time to Visit Egypt
Here is a detailed analysis of different seasons to help you find the best time to visit Egypt.
Best Months: November - March (Winter)
Weather: Cool and comfortable. The daytime temperature is about 10℃ - 15℃ (50℉ - 59℉). You can travel lightly and don't have to worry about being too cold or too hot, so prepare more protective measures in advance.
Recommended Activities: Various outdoor activities, including exploring pyramids, having a Nile Cruise, and snorkeling and diving in the Red Sea with temperatures about 25℃ (77℉) and high visibility of seawater.
Note: It is the peak tourist season in Egypt, with a large number of visitors. The prices of hotels and flights may rise, so remember to plan and book your trip in advance.
Cost-Effective Choice: April, May, September, October (Spring & Autumn)
Weather: Hot and dry, with the temperature around 27°C (80℉).
Recommended Activities: Wander in the streets of Cairo, enjoy a desert safari, and explore the oases.
Note: At this time, attractions are not very crowded. Although the weather is warm, I still suggest you bring a light jacket to prevent the temperature from dropping at night in desert areas or the Red Sea coast.
A Different Experience: June - August (Summer)
Weather: In the south, such as Aswan, the temperature can soar to over 40°C (104℉). But compared to the hot and humid conditions in tropical regions like Southeast Asia, I think the heat in Egypt is acceptable.
Recommended Activities: Escape the heat at a resort on the Red Sea coast and enjoy cool nightlife.
Note: Usually, we do not recommend traveling to Egypt in summer. However, if you can accept its heat, it may be a special experience. Remember to do sun protection and drink plenty of water to stay cool.
How Many Days is Enough for an Egypt Tour
The Funerary Temple of Hatshepsut, Luxor
The itinerary arrangement of an Egypt trip is flexible, depending on your interests and schedule.
If time is limited, you can choose a 7-day itinerary to experience the essence of Egypt. You will visit classic attractions such as the Pyramids and the Sphinx in Cairo, then experience a 3-4 day Nile Cruise and explore ancient temples, or consider taking a hot air balloon ride in Luxor.
If you want to have a more enjoyable time, 10-12 days is the ideal duration. Besides the above-mentioned activities, you can stay in the Red Sea resort in Hurghada or Sharm el Sheikh for 2-3 days to enjoy world-class diving experiences.
If you are considering staying for more than 15 days, congratulations on unlocking more special experiences. You can choose to visit historical ancient cities like Minya and Faiyum, and stay in Sharm el Sheikh to relax; Or visit nearby countries like Jordan, Morocco, or Turkey for a deep Middle East tour.
How Much Should an Egypt Trip Cost
Don't worry, most of our guests have reported that Egypt is a highly cost-effective destination. Based on 2 adults sharing 1 room and 4-star service, a 7-day classic itinerary costs approximately $180 per person per day, covering basic expenses, including a tour guide, transportation, hotel, tickets to attractions, and insurance.
Daily expenses are also affordable, with options like vegetarian salad sandwiches for 35 Egyptian pounds ($0.72), kebabs for 150 Egyptian pounds ($3.09), and freshly squeezed juice for 20 Egyptian pounds ($0.41) available on the street. A cup of cappuccino costs approximately 40-70 Egyptian pounds ($0.82-1.44), while a decent meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around 500 Egyptian pounds ($10.31) per person. Although it is more cost-effective than in most countries in America and Europe, I recommend bargaining politely, and you can usually reduce the quoted price.
If you pretend to spend more days at the beach or exploring more ancient temples, even adding the oasis experience to your Egypt trip, the cost will vary. You can contact us or email us at [email protected]. We'll share travel suggestions under professional service, and customize an itinerary based on your interests, budget, as well as your travel time.
Is It Safe to Travel in Egypt
It's a question that many tourists to Egypt want to know the answer. My answer is: Of course, it's safe.
Although the international news said that the Middle East is in a serious situation, your travel experience in Egypt will not be impacted by it. The main tourist destinations in Egypt are close to Cairo, the Nile River, and the Red Sea, which are relatively safe with a mature tourism industry and well-established security measures. The Egyptian government attaches great importance to the safety of tourists, and you can see tourist police everywhere at these popular attractions. Nile cruise ships and high-quality hotels also have strict security check procedures.
So plan your trip to Egypt with peace of mind and focus on how to better experience the civilization of the pharaohs. Importantly, remember to avoid sensitive areas, such as the northern part of the Sinai Peninsula (near the border with Israel) and the western border with Libya.
Where to Go in Egypt
Cairo, the capital, is always the first stop on an Egyptian trip. Here you can see the famous pyramids and the Sphinx, or choose it as the starting point for a 7-day Nile cruise. In the nearby coastal city of Alexandria, you can admire the coastal scenery, which will sweep away your fatigue.
Traveling south along the Nile from Cairo, popular places such as Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel in the south are gathering many ancient Egyptian temples, allowing you to explore temple of Hatshepsut, Karnak Temple, Philae Temple, Abu Simbel Temple, and more.
Along the Red Sea coast in the east, there are beach resorts such as Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada. The clear seawater provides excellent conditions for diving and snorkeling.
Although the western desert region borders Libya, the main tourist destinations are closer to Cairo and the Nile River, and will not affect your travel experience. You can experience a variety of desert activities or enjoy authentic life in the best Egyptian oases.
The following table shows the main tourist destinations and attractions in Egypt for your reference.
Destination | Attractions |
---|---|
Nile Delta |
• Cairo: Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, Grand Egyptian Museum, Khan el Khalili Bazaar • Alexandria: Bibliotheca Alexandrina Library, Citadel of Qaitbay |
Southern Nile Area |
• Aswan: High Dam, Temple of Philae • Luxor: Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings • Abu Simbel: Abu Simbel Temple |
Red Sea Coast |
• Sharm el Sheikh: Ras Mohammed National Park, Naama Bay, Tiran Island • Hurghada: Sand City Museum, Giftun Island, Straits of Gubal |
Western Desert Area |
• Oasis: Siwa Oasis, Faiyum Oasis, Bahariya Oasis, Farafra Oasis, Dakhla Oasis • Desert: White Desert, Black Desert, Great Sand Sea |
What to Do in Egypt
Explore Ancient Ruins
As one of the 4 ancient civilizations, the ancient ruins of Egypt must be explored. The Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx will leave you speechless. When you stroll through the temple complexes of Luxor and Aswan, the huge stone pillars and murals engraved with hieroglyphics will take you to travel back three thousand years.
Leisurely Nile Cruise
Have you ever heard the saying, "If you drink the water of the Nile, you will surely come back to Egypt"? I'm not suggesting that you drink the water. What I want to say is that the Nile River is a sacred symbol of Egypt! So don't miss the Nile Cruise. The 5-day route from Luxor to Aswan is the most classic, and the 7-day route departing from Cairo can also be chosen. You can drink juice by the deck pool and admire the historical sites on both banks.
Diving & Snorkeling in the Red Sea
The Red Sea is a world-class diving spot. After putting on your diving gear, you can dance with tropical fish and explore the underwater forest composed of coral reefs. It doesn't matter if you can't dive. Snorkeling can also allow you to see the splendid underwater world. You might even encounter a group of cute dolphins!
The Coastline of the Red Sea
Adventure in Desert & Oasis
Camping under the starry sky is an unforgettable experience. The vast deserts in western Egypt offer you excellent conditions, such as the Black and White deserts. The salt lakes in Siwa Oasis and the Valley of the Whales in Faiyum Oasis are hidden Easter eggs for your trip. Don't forget to try the local specialty dates and olive oil with bread.
Find Treasures in Khan el Khalili Bazaar
Why do I say that visiting Khan el Khalili Bazaar is like an adventure? Because you never know what treasure you'll meet around the next corner: Copper lamps, spices, papyrus paintings, and so on. It's like stepping into the world of 1001 Arabian Nights, giving you an unforgettable memory.
Recommended Itineraries for Egypt Tour
Considering the needs of most tourists and the ideal duration, I recommend the following 3 itineraries. Welcome to check them to know more.
7-Day Classic Itinerary covers essential activities: Cairo visiting, Nile River Cruise, and temple exploration.
Compared with the classic 7-day trip, the 10-day Itinerary involves flying to Hurghada to enjoy a beach vacation after taking a Nile cruise.
If you want to stay for more days at a slow pace, I think the 9-Day Itinerary is a good option. It covers the highlights of the 7-day tour that I just mentioned, and adds an exploration of the temple of Abu Simbel.
Transportation & Accommodation in Egypt
How to Get Around Egypt
By Air: It's the fastest way. The airport covers major cities in Egypt such as Cairo, Luxor, Alexandria, Abu Simbel, Hurghada, and Sharm el-Sheikh.
By Train: The railway system connects the Nile Valley, the Delta, and the Canal area, offering you a scenic view and an authentic experience.
By Ship: The most classic one is the Nile River cruise from Luxor to Aswan.
By Car: Remote areas like Siwa Oasis can only be reached by car, which takes about an 8-hour drive from Cairo. You can contact us to arrange a private car for a hassle-free and comfortable experience.
By Bus: The bus is affordable and covers major tourist cities, but it can be very crowded and time-consuming. So it is not recommended.
Where to Stay in Egypt
The Chephren Pyramid on the Giza Plateau
Cairo
The best option is to stay in the city center, which is a suitable place for first-time visitors to Egypt. Its convenient transportation takes advantage of visiting major attractions, like the Pyramids of Giza, and the old Egyptian Museum.
Giza is recommended for pyramid lovers, and some hotel rooms offer a view of the pyramids.
Zamalek is a paradise for artistic youth and those who stay up late. It's an upscale community along the Nile River, filled with boutique hotels, cafes, and galleries.
Luxor-Aswan
The Nile Cruise lasts for 3 days and 4 nights, so you will stay on the cruise ship! You can dock to visit the temple during the day, and watch the starry sky from the deck at night.
Red Sea Coast
I recommend staying at a seaside resort and choosing a room by the sea. Imagine that you will be greeted by the fascinating Red Sea in the morning, and fall asleep listening to the sound of the waves at night.
Choose Odynovo to Plan Your Trip to Egypt
Why should you choose us to plan a trip to Egypt? After reading the information I mentioned above, I believe it leaves a good impression on you with a complete introduction and professional suggestions. Contact us with peace of mind and you'll get:
• 1:1 Tailor-Made Travel: Your Egypt trip is defined by you! A 1:1 travel specialist customizes your trip based on your budget, interests, and pace. Your imagined journey will be turned into reality and optimized to be more comfortable and safe.
• 100% Reliable Service: From "Hello" to "Goodbye", your local experts remain passionate and knowledgeable, and give your trip high flexibility. Your itinerary can be adjusted at any time, and participation in activities is entirely up to your preference.
• 20-Year Exclusive Resources: Your journey is in your hands. From handpicked accommodations, excellent viewing spots, off-the-beaten-path attractions, to a wide range of experiences, you must find your favorite and suitable options.
It's our pleasure to answer your questions to give you a comprehensive understanding of Egypt, take all possible precautions in advance, and ensure that your trip is safe and hassle-free. Whatever situations you encounter, we can solve them for you. So, don't hesitate to start your Egypt tour.
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