The Perfect Egypt Itinerary for 10 Days (More Or Less)

If you have a few days and a sense of adventure, Egypt might be the perfect travel destination! Despite its 5000-year history, you can see the best sights in Egypt in as little as a week.

This Egypt itinerary will help you, plan your vacation, whether your trip lasts a week, ten days, or two weeks.

Classic sights in Egypt

Conveniently, Egypt’s most famous sights are also world heritage sites. Egypt has 7 UNESCO sites, 6 cultural and one natural, and we planned our itinerary around them. We’ve visited UNESCO sites all over the world and have never been disappointed or sorry we went. This itinerary includes all but the last two on the list.

• Historic Cairo
• Memphis and its Necropolis – the Pyramid Fields from Giza to Dahshur
• Wadi Al-Hitan (Whale Valley)
• Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis
• Nubian Monuments from Abu Simbel to Philae
• Abu Mena Monastery
• Saint Catherine Area – It takes 5 hours to drive to Saint Catherine’s Monastery from Cairo. (It’s down near Sharm El-Sheikh, at the tip of the Sinai peninsula.)

Maybe diving in Sharm el-Sheikh and climbing to the “Mount Sinai” monastery is on your “must do” list of things to do in Egypt. You’ll be happy to know that there are flights from Cairo, Luxor and Aswan. Click here to see some good excursions there.

That’s why we left wiggle room in this itinerary: Everyone’s different. You need time for things like that.

Getting around Egypt

Egypt is big. Let’s face it, sometimes it’s not practical to take a taxi or walk.

• Uber. Uber is available in Cairo, but not elsewhere in Egypt. We use it whenever we can.
• Rental car. Driving in Egypt can be daunting, especially if you don’t speak Arabic. That said, it is possible. You can research prices for a car rental here.
• Public transportation. Egypt is large. Most visitors fly to Luxor, Aswan and the Sinai Peninsula, however there is also a train to Luxor and Aswan. This website will show you options by plane, train, bus, ferry and car.
• Private drivers. If you’d like to hire a driver, you can find recommendations in the TripAdvisor forums or hire one on Get Your Guide.
• Guided tours. These run the gamut from day trips to private tours with an Egyptologist to huge bus tours. We chose to use a tour company that would let us design an Egypt itinerary that fit our interests. All of our guides were certified Egyptologists, which we strongly recommend. We’ll discuss this option below.

Our Egypt itinerary is based on our own experience, plus what we learned from others while we were there.

Where to stay in Egypt

Travel styles differ. Here’s where we stayed:

• Cairo – Fairmont Nile City
• Nile cruise – Sonesta St George 5-day Luxor to Aswan all-inclusive
• Aswan – Movenpick Resort

10-day Egypt itinerary

We spent 10 days in Egypt and had a wonderful time, but I don’t know how we would have managed wihout our tour guides. Along with everything else, they really helped us understand the culture.

But not everyone wants to go with a tour company. If you just want a bit of guidance, you’ll find links to related tours in here, too. You’ll be surprised at how cheap they can be.

Day 1: Cairo

Your international flight will most likely land in Cairo. Cairo is an overwhelming, crazy city, so we recommend making your way to your hotel and relaxing for a while. Allow yourself time to adjust to the heat, dusty air and loud street noise.

We used a tour company, so our tour manager met us at Cairo International Airport. Cairo has hectic streets and crazy drivers. It was nice to be a bit insulated from the chaos in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle on the way to our hotel. After we had checked in, he reviewed our itinerary with us to confirm pick-up times for each tour.

Overnight in Cairo.

Tip: This website has all the information about getting to and from Cairo Airport. For a meet-and-greet private transfer service, click here for a list.

Day 2: Memphis and its Necropolis + Saqqara + the Pyramids of Giza

Morning: Begin your day at Giza, before the crowds and haze descend on the site. Play with perspective by posing with the three enchanting pyramids of Cheops, Khafre. Then head to the nearby Great Sphinx. The iconic head of a pharaoh with a lion’s body dates back to the time of Khafre.

Also be sure to see the Valley Temple, which is connected to the Pyramid of Khafre. He was a busy king.
Walking all the way around the base or climbing the steps will give you a clear sense of a pyramid’s massive size. Makes you wonder, how did they do that?

Related tour: Giza Pyramids, Sphinx and Sakkara – Private Full Day Tour

Afternoon: Memphis, the ancient capital of Old Egypt during the Old Kingdom, was founded by King Menes. Visit the Step Pyramid at Saqqara, which was designed for King Djoser by his chancellor, Imhotep.

Imhotep was one of only a few commoners ever to be accorded divine status after death. He had an impressive list of credentials: Chancellor of the King of Egypt, Doctor, First in line after the King of Upper Egypt, Administrator of the Great Palace, Hereditary nobleman, High Priest of Heliopolis, Builder, Chief Carpenter, Chief Sculptor, and Maker of Vases in Chief.

Overnight in Cairo.

Day 3: El Fayoum (Valley of the Whales)

Morning: After all the big-city chaos, it’s time to enjoy a little of Egypt’s natural side by visiting Wadi Rayyan (Wadi al-Rayan), a protected area in Egypt’s harsh and deserted Western Desert. This 100 km drive will help you understand more about Egyptian mythology. The western lands were where the sun god Ra went to die each day. The pharoahs were buried on the western side of the Nile, too. It’s all connected.

The first stop is also its best known: Wadi Al-Hitan (Valley of the Whales). This UNESCO site holds hundreds of whale skeletons as well as dramatic rock formations that challenge the imagination. Scientists say the desert had been an ocean at one time. Could be. We believe the whales were marooned there as the waters receded from the Great Flood.

Afternoon: After lunch, climb Mudawara Mountain for a spectacular view. The two gigantic freshwater lakes you’ll see are connected by Egypt’s only waterfalls. After a day of desert heat, Wadi El Rayan Waterfalls will be a refreshing final stop before returning to the city.

Overnight in Cairo.

Day 4: Historic Cairo

Morning: Historic Cairo is a UNESCO site as well. Even if you’re not a museum fan, we suggest you begin your Cairo tour with the Egyptian Museum. This is where you can see the famous Tutankhamun treasures, as well as over 120,000 other fascinating artifacts.

Related tour: 4-Hour Guided Tour of the Egyptian Museum

ⓘ TIP: The room that houses King Tut’s treasures can be extremely crowded. For the fewest crowds, arrive at 9 AM, when the museum opens, and head straight to that hall.

Afterward, visit Salah El Din Citadel, which was constructed by Salah El Din (Saladin) in 1183 AD. He built it to defend Cairo from the onslaught of invading Christian Crusaders. Then visit Mohamed Ali Alabaster Mosque, named for the man who ruled Egypt over 45 years (1805-1849).

Afternoon: Visit Old Cairo to enjoy the Hanging Church, Ben Ezra Synagogue and a few other sites. Spend some time at Khan El Khalili Bazaar, one of the most famous and oldest bazaars in the Middle East.

Related tour: Cairo Citadel, Old Cairo & Khan El Khalili Full-Day Tour

Overnight in Cairo.

Day 5: Alexandria

Morning: Another escape from crazy, hazy Cairo, on an amazing day trip to Alexandria. First stop: Pompey’s Pillar, built in honor of the Emperor Diocletian at the end of the 4th century. Then drive to visit the Catacombs which are the largest Roman Cemetery consisting of three levels cut in the rock.

Related tour: Full-Day Tour of Historical Alexandria from Cairo, Egypt

Afternoon: See the Qaitbay Citadel which was built on the site of the ancient Pharos of Alexandria, using some of its stones. The Pharos was one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Next to Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a major library and cultural center built to commemorate the famous Library of Alexandria, lost to a fire in antiquity.

Overnight in Cairo.

Day 6: Luxor + board Nile Cruise

Even if you’re on a budget, don’t discount those multi-day Nile River cruises. Thanks to the drop in tourism, prices are an unbelievable deal right now. Our cruise ship was running at only about 30% capacity, although we couldn’t tell from the abundant food offerings!

ⓘ PLANNING TIP: If you’ll only be in Egypt a short time, book a cruise that begins in Aswan. Due to the river’s strong flow, Nile cruise itineraries run for 4 days downriver (from Aswan to Luxor) and for 5 Days upriver (from Luxor to Aswan).

Morning: Fly from Cairo to Luxor (choose 07:20-08:30 or 10:45-11:55 am). We took the earlier flight so we could check in early and explore the ship at our leisure. That also gives you time to walk around Luxor’s corniche (riverfront).

Afternoon: The ancient Egyptians knew Luxor as Thebes. The East Bank of the River Nile is home of Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis, a UNESCO site. As you tour Karnak Temple (the biggest temple in the world), Sphinx Avenue, and Luxor Temple, Pharaonic history begins to come to life.

Related tour: Full-Day Tour of the East & West Banks from Luxor

Evening: After dinner, take an evening stroll on the corniche. Or enjoy the Karnak at Night light show. Buy tickets here.

Overnight in Luxor on board the ship.

Day 7: Luxor

Before dawn: Take a hot air balloon ride over Luxor. It’s a memorable experience and you will return to the ship before breakfast.

Morning: Visit the ancient tombs and temples of Luxor’s West Bank: the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple at El Deir El Bahari, and the Colossi of Memnon. (Valley of the Queens is also on the West Bank, but it’s not always included in the itinerary due to distance.)

Afternoon: Enjoy the passing Egyptian landscape as you cruise toward Edfu. In the afternoon, visit the sun deck and watch as the ship passes through the Nile Lock at Esna, the largest lock in the world.

Overnight in Edfu on board the ship.

Day 8: Temple of Edfu + Kom Ombo

Morning: Horus Temple at Edfu.

Afternoon: Sail to Kom Ombo to visit an unusual double temple, dedicated to Sobek the crocodile god, and the falcon god Haroeris (Horus the Elder). Then, stop in at the Crocodile Museum to see a few of the 300 crocodile mummies discovered nearby. Return to the ship for dinner and sail on to Aswan.

Related tour: From Aswan: Day Trip to Kom Ombo and Edfu

Overnight in Aswan on board the ship.

Day 9: Aswan High Dam + Unfinished Obelisk + Philae Temple + Nubian Village

Morning: Pay a visit to the Aswan High Dam, built in the 1960s to control Nile flooding. Then continue to one of ancient Egypt’s stone quarries to see the immense Unfinished Obelisk, and finish the morning at the majestic Philae Temple.

Related: Get Your Guide offers a number of excellent tours in Aswan.

Afternoon: Take a trip upriver past the Nile’s first cataract, and cool off with a dip in the Nile waters. Then continue on to visit a local Nubian village, either on a camel or on a boat.

Meet a traditional Nubian family, learn about their lifestyle and culture and gain insight into the traditions the Nubians have followed for thousands of years. (Note that this may be an add-on excursion. It’s worth it, though!)

Overnight in Aswan on board the ship.

Day 10: Disembark + fly home

Try to book a flight that departs later in the day. This way, you can disembark early from the ship, as we did, and drive to Abu Simbel. It’s one of the most impressive UNESCO sites in Egypt and you’ll be glad you woke up early to see it.

Related tour: From Aswan: Private Tour to Abu Simbel

One week in Egypt itinerary

If you’re visiting a series of destinations and only have a week available, here’s the 7 day itinerary we would recommend.

• Day 1: Arrive in Cairo. See the Pyramids of Giza and (time permitting) visit Saqqara.
• Day 2: Cairo. Begin with the Egyptian Museum, then visit the Citadel, Old Cairo and the Bazaar.
• Day 3: Aswan / Nile cruise. Fly to Aswan in the morning. Enjoy lunch on board, then spend the afternoon touring Aswan High Dam; the ancient Temple of Philae, and the remarkable Unfinished Obelisk. See related tours here.
• Day 4: Cruise to Edfu. Excursions at Kom Ombo and Edfu
• Day 5: Cruise to Luxor. East Bank sightseeing, including the Temple of Luxor. Optional nightly Sound and Lights Show at the Luxor Temple complex.
• Day 6: Tour Luxor’s West Bank. Optional early morning balloon ride (see below). Visit Valley of the Kings and the mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut. Fly back to Cairo.
• Day 7: Tour ends. Continue to your next destination or fly home.

The 2-week Egypt itinerary

Here’s where your own fun begins! You have four flexi-days for your own plans.

Begin with our itinerary, then add sights and activities that fit your interests. Maybe you’d like to spend a bit of time diving in the Red Sea at Hurghada, visit the Egyptian Mount Sinai, or see more Egyptian temples, like Dendara.

Here are some ideas to spark your imagination:

• Cairo Food Tour
• 1-Hour Felucca Ride on the Nile
• Hurghada Jeep Safari, Camel Ride and Bedouin Village Tour
• Sharm: Overnight Moses Mountain Climb & Sunrise Breakfast
• From Dahab: Blue Hole Diving Day Tour
• Hurghada: Classic Family Red Sea Cruise

Is Egypt safe to visit?

You probably know that Egypt has endured a lot of upheaval in recent years, and many countries have not yet lifted their travel warnings. Naturally, this has made tourists nervous. Tourism has plummeted nationwide and devastated local economies.

Our three outspoken guides gave their honest opinions about safety in their country. We were surprised to learn that attacks are directed at fellow citizens when groups have wanted to get the government’s attention. Tourist areas are safe to visit now, they said, as long as you don’t travel to the most remote parts of the country. They warned that visitors should stay away from the Libyan border and in north Sinai, but few people would want to go there anyway.

What does all of this mean for you?

With tourists seeking alternate destinations, many of the country’s hotels and sites are left nearly empty. Prices have dropped, resulting in an inexpensive and less crowded experience.

We’re the last people to suggest you should take your personal safety lightly. It just means that you need to dig beneath the surface of headlines and hype. Do your own research, talk to any Egyptians you know, and remember that the real-life situation isn’t necessarily what the media might be saying.

This is where it pays to hire a guide or take a tour, private or otherwise. Tour companies keep up-to-date on political unrest and take their clients’ safety very seriously.

Should you take a tour in Egypt?

Some places are perfect for the independent traveler. And some, well, aren’t.

We’re not saying you can’t see Egypt on your own. You can, of course. However, Egypt is chaotic and if you’re not used to it, the Arab culture can be hard to deal with.

Seriously consider taking a tour or hiring a professional, even if it’s not your usual style. We can’t express how much it helps to travel with someone who “knows the ropes” and can tell you what you’re looking at.

Thanks to low demand, Egypt is “on sale” at the moment, with rock-bottom tour prices. Thus, you can take advantage of the situation by booking a tour instead of doing it yourself.

Why take a private tour?

From our experience, the advantages to booking a tour or hiring a guide include:

• They make most or all of the arrangements, saving you time and streamlining the experience.
• They can help you understand the culture.
• They can warn you about health risks (and remind you not to eat the salad)
• They can “run interference” for you if you’re being hassled for baksheesh (we hated that about Egypt)
• They speak the local dialect (our guide negotiated a great price, then saved me from being taken advantage of at the Cairo bazaar)
• Best of all, many tour guides are certified Egyptologists. That’s a good thing, because you would miss out on a lot if you don’t understand what you’re looking at.

Why take a group tour?

Depending on the price, group tours might seem a good option, but be selective. Trust us: Being herded from place to place can easily suck all the fun from a trip.

• They have to stay on schedule so you can feel rushed.
• They have to keep everyone happy, so your personal preferences aren’t a priority.
• Worse, you’re part of a herd. How can you fully appreciate a place if you are never alone with it?

The cruise portion of our trip included a shared guide, but we only shared with a handful of people. After he showed us the important things at each site, we had plenty of time to explore on our own. He stuck around to answer any questions we had,  which was super helpful.

Finally, he made sure we got back to the ship in time. Because, no one wants to wait for one last person, or worse, find out the ship left without you.

Budget travel tips for Egypt

Egypt is a cheap travel destination, it’s safe, and you can see it on your own and still have a wonderful time.

If cost is your major hurdle, there are ways to save even more money when planning your Egypt itinerary.

• Travel in the shoulder season, from March – April or October – November. Hotel rates are lower then. Plus,  you will encounter fewer crowds.
• Skip the view of the Nile or pyramids from your hotel room–it adds unnecessary cost.
• Visit sites like museums and the pyramids on your own.
• may save enough money to afford a more memorable experience elsewhere.
• Don’t rule out guides and tours just if your budget is limited. Some are surprisingly affordable.

ⓘ TIP:  Because tour companies often get preferred rates, you won’t always save money by arranging your trip yourself. Compare the prices of both before deciding.

All that said, if we had to choose one single experience that’s worth paying for, we’d say it’s a multi-day Nile cruise. Do consider it if you’re planning to venture down to Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel.

For one thing, you don’t need to worry about transportation, food and lodging. Nile cruises are all-inclusive, plus they come with unforgettable views. For another, we hate regrets and this is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure you won’t get anywhere else on earth. Here are some to look at.

If it still doesn’t fit your travel budget, train travel in Egypt is an option as well. This article has all the information you’ll need.

Planning resources

Here are some more useful links to help you plan your own trip.

• Tourism authority: Egypt’s tourism website has many useful trip planning resources.
• Airport. The code for Cairo International Airport is CAI.
• Airport to hotel. Taxis are available to get you from the airport to the hotel, as is Uber. For something a little more comfortable, you can book a private limousine service. They will greet you with a sign in the airport, help with your luggage, and help you get oriented as they escort you to your hotel.
• Visas. Project Visa is an easy-to-use tool that will tell you if you are eligible for Visa on Arrival (VOA).
• Currency. We use xe.com to calculate currency exchange values.
• Travel insurance. You’d be surprised at how cheap it is and how much it covers. Learn more here. Trust us, when an airline misplaces your suitcase for a week, you’ll be glad you have it.

Considering this was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, we decided to pay for a private tour. We chose to go with Memphis Tours after reading so many glowing reviews. They created a custom itinerary for Egypt based on our must-see sights, made all our arrangements, and guided us throughout our trip. All our guides were certified Egyptologists. Highly recommend this if you want to understand the sights and culture.

Read more

Online

Other related articles include:

• Sample Itinerary for 2 Weeks in Egypt
• Two Weeks in Egypt (written from a DIY perspective)
• What to Pack for a Vacation in Egypt

On Amazon

• Lonely Planet Egypt (Travel Guide)
• DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Egypt
• A Visitor’s Guide to Ancient Egypt

Done-for-you Egypt tours

We often make our own plans, but sometimes it’s best to have someone else manage all the arrangements. Not being familiar with Arab culture, we chose to let a local company show us around.

Private tours and guides

Private tour companies can create a custom itinerary tailored to your interests. They make all transportation and lodging arrangements, provide local guides, and ensure your safety.

Organized tours

G Adventures offers insanely affordable small group tours on all 7 continents, with 100% guaranteed departures, even if you’re the only traveler. Expect local accommodation, cuisine, and transport to connect you with the planet’s people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife.

Day trips and excursions

An alternative is to make your own lodging arrangements and book a series of day trips. That’s why we included tour suggestions throughout this article.

When we travel, we use Get Your Guide a lot. It’s our go-to for food tours, attractions and activities. Click here to see what’s available in Egypt.]

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