Egypt Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts in Egypt
The temple of Abu Simbel in Egypt's ancient Nubia
Map of 2 Weeks in Egypt - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Egypt - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Two weeks is a generous amount of time to spend in Egypt. With 14 days, you can focus on Egyptian culture and history, touring the country's pyramids and ancient monuments, or opt to structure your trip around a cruise down the Nile River. Alternatively, you might like to divide your time between more than one country: Spend the first week in Egypt before adventuring to Morocco or Jordan.

The massive statues at Abu Simbel
Map of Egyptian Culture & History Tour: Cairo, Aswan, Luxor & More - 14 Days
Egyptian Culture & History Tour: Cairo, Aswan, Luxor & More - 14 Days

Pyramids, temples, tombs, Roman ruins—this two-week tour of Egypt takes you to the country's top cultural and historical highlights. You'll visit Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan, touring the most important monuments along the way, from the Karnak Temple Complex to the Great Pyramids of Giza to the Valley of the Kings. Finish the trip with a few relaxing days in Sharm El Sheikh, an Egyptian resort town with white sandy beaches and clear water perfect for swimming and boating.

Ancient Egyptian temple complex in Luxor
Map of Highlights of Egypt & Jordan: Cairo, Petra & More - 14 Days
Highlights of Egypt & Jordan: Cairo, Petra & More - 14 Days

This two-week journey features an appealing mix of culture, history, and outdoor adventure. The itinerary starts in Egypt, where you'll sightsee in Cairo, visit the Pyramids of Giza, cruise down the Nile River on a boat, and tour the ancient temples at Luxor. Then you'll cross the border to Jordan, where the second part of the trip begins. See Petra's jaw-dropping "Rose City," go on a safari around Wadi Rum, and take it easy by the Dead Sea.

The Nile River
Map of Egypt Cultural Tour & Nile River Cruise: Cairo, Siwa & More - 14 days
Egypt Cultural Tour & Nile River Cruise: Cairo, Siwa & More - 14 days

Explore Egypt by water and land on this action-packed two-week tour of the country. After getting oriented in Cairo, you'll cruise along the Nile on a boat, stopping to visit the Pyramids of Giza, Luxor Temple, and the Valley of the Kings. Then you'll continue the trip overland, exploring antiquities in Alexandria before retreating to the Siwa Oasis, home to the fascinating Berber settlements of the Egyptian desert. 

Luxor, Egypt
Map of Highlights of Egypt & Morocco: Cairo, Marrakech & More - 14 Days
Highlights of Egypt & Morocco: Cairo, Marrakech & More - 14 Days

Explore the best of Egypt and Morocco on this two-week tour of the highlights. You'll sightsee Cairo, visit the pyramids, enjoy a three-day cruise along the Nile River, and more. Then zip over to Morocco, where you'll tour Casablanca, wander through the bustling medina of Fes, and float over the countryside near Marrakech in a hot air balloon.

Explore Egypt's capital, Cairo
Map of 5 Days in Egypt - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
5 Days in Egypt - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Five days in Egypt offers plenty of choices, where most travelers want to spend time in Cairo, a great hub for visiting the famous Egyptian Museum, and nearby Giza to see the pyramids and Sphinx. For ancient Egyptian history, opt to continue to Luxor and the Valley of the Kings or make a side trip to Alexandria, seeing the Roman ruins before returning to Cairo for a Nile dinner cruise. Another alternative is to sail down the Nile River or combine a few days touring ancient Egyptian monuments with a few days at a beach resort on the Red Sea.

Yachts in the harbor at Hurghada
Map of Ancient Egypt & Red Sea Getaway - 5 Days
Ancient Egypt & Red Sea Getaway - 5 Days

On this whirlwind tour through Egypt, you'll see diverse destinations ranging from the busy capital city to a beach resort by the Red Sea. Starting in Cairo, visit the Egyptian Museum and the King Tut exhibit, detour to the pyramids of Giza, and see the ancient temples of Luxor and Karnak. Then head for the coast, spending the last few days in Hurghada, swimming in the ocean and enjoying a desert safari tour.

Ride a camel along the coast of Dahab famous for its sunsets and Blue Hole
Map of 10 Days in Egypt - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Egypt - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Ten days is a perfect amount of time to spend in Egypt. With enough time to explore several regions, you can combine an extended stay in Cairo with a multi-day cruise down the Nile River or opt for a faster-paced tour and include time in Sharm el-Sheikh. You could also combine a tour of ancient Egyptian cities with a safari in the desert oasis of Siwa, while those looking to include Jordan in their itinerary can travel from Cairo and Saint Catherine's Monastery northeast to the Dead Sea.

The incredible Colossi of Memnon in the Valley of the Kings
Egypt & Jordan Cultural Tour: Cairo, Amman & More - 10 days

This exciting itinerary takes you to the top highlights of Egypt and Jordan. You'll start your trip in Cairo and visit the Pyramids of Giza before departing for a three-day cruise along the Nile River with stops at many of Egypt's most famous temples. Then you'll cross the border to Amman, Jordan. After one day in the city, travel to the ancient city of Petra and enjoy a desert safari tour through Wadi Rum.

Discover the Deir-al-Bahri (Temple of Hatshepsut) opposite Luxor, on a Cairo and Nile cruise adventure
Map of 1 Week in Egypt - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Egypt - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With a week to spend in Egypt, travelers have several great options. Try a highlights tour that takes you to Cairo, Alexandria, and the coastal resort of Sharm El Sheikh, or choose an itinerary that focuses specifically on history and culture, including a side trip to Aswan and the incredible rock-cut tombs at Abu Simbel. Alternatively, combine a few days of sightseeing in Cairo with a three-day boat cruise down the Nile. Or add Jordan into the mix, spending a few days in Egypt before crossing the border to explore Petra and Wadi Rum. Find out more about your options by reading the itineraries below.

On the beach at Sharm el-Sheikh
Map of Nile River Cruise & Red Sea Getaway - 10 Days
Nile River Cruise & Red Sea Getaway - 10 Days

This 10-day Egyptian adventure is perfect for anyone who likes to spend time on (and in) the water. It kicks off with a multi-day cruise down the legendary Nile River, with stops to tour ancient temples along the way. Finish the trip with a few days of relaxing by the Red Sea in the idyllic coastal resort of Sharm el-Sheikh, with an added visit to Saint Catherine's, the longest-operating monastery in the world.

Inside the ancient city of Petra, Jordan
Egypt & Jordan Cultural Tour: Cairo, Amman & Petra - 7 days

Venture to the Great Pyramid of Giza, climb to the top of Petra's largest temple, see Dead Sea Scrolls in person, go for a safari tour in Wadi Rum: these are just a few of the adventures that await you on this thrilling 7-day itinerary around Egypt and Jordan. Start with a few days in Cairo learning about Egyptian culture and history, then cross the border to Amman to begin your journey around deserts and Roman ruins.

Luxor Temple
History & Culture of Egypt: Cairo, Luxor, & Aswan - 7 Days

In just a week, this action-packed itinerary takes you to Egypt's top historic and cultural attractions. You'll see the Great Pyramid of Giza, ancient temples at Karnak and Luxor, and fascinating antiquities at Cairo's Egyptian Museum. One particular highlight of the trip is a journey to the iconic temples at Abu Simbel, an ancient site that was dismantled and rebuilt on higher ground in the 1960s to make room for the Aswan High Dam.

Boats on the Nile, Cairo
Cairo Adventure & Nile Cruise - 7 days

Enjoy the best of Egypt on this weeklong adventure. Spend a few days in Cairo, visiting museums, learning about Islamic history, and side-tripping to the pyramids of Giza, before boarding a boat for a cruise along the Nile River. Highlights along the journey include Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, and Karnak Temple. The itinerary ends up back in Cairo — a perfect way to spend seven days!

The Colossi of Memnon
Map of Highlights of Ancient Egypt: Cairo & Luxor  - 5 Days
Highlights of Ancient Egypt: Cairo & Luxor - 5 Days

This 5-day tour takes you to ancient Egypt's most iconic sites, from mysterious pyramids to ancient temples. You'll base yourself in Cairo, taking a domestic flight to and from Luxor to see as much as possible. Check out pharaohs' treasures and the King Tut exhibit at Cairo's Egyptian Museum, behold the massive Colossi of Memnon statues in Luxor, tour the impressive Karnak Temple, and view the famous pyramids of Giza.

Explore the fortified walls and towers around the medina in Fes
Map of Egypt & Morocco Highlights: Cairo, Nile River, Fes, Marrakesh & More - 15 Days
Egypt & Morocco Highlights: Cairo, Nile River, Fes, Marrakesh & More - 15 Days

Spend 15 days discovering Egypt and Morocco's highlights, starting in Cairo, where the Giza pyramid complex awaits. Move on to Luxor to board a three-day cruise along the Nile River, with stops at iconic temples and tombs along the way. Fly to Casablanca and transfer to Fes, spending two days discovering the bustling medina and picturesque architecture. Camp in the Afagay Desert, then head to your last stop, Marrakesh. Enjoy a hot-air balloon ride, visit the famous Jardin Majorelle, and more.

An aerial view of the Wadi Rum desert
Map of Egypt & Jordan Cultural Tour: Cairo, Amman, Petra, & More - 11 days
Egypt & Jordan Cultural Tour: Cairo, Amman, Petra, & More - 11 days

You'll start your trip in Cairo—where you'll visit the Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum—before departing for a three-day cruise along the Nile to many of Egypt's most famous temples in Luxor, Esna, and Kom Ombo. You'll also set sail along the Nile River to Aswan and then return to Cairo in time for your flight to Amman in Jordan. After one day in Amman, you'll travel to the ancient rose-colored city of Petra for one night before enjoying a desert tour through Wadi Rum and then returning to Amman for your final night.

Get a glimpse of Nubian culture on a visit to Aswan's Elephantine Island
Map of Egypt & Jordan Cultural Tour: Cairo, Amman & More - 12 Days
Egypt & Jordan Cultural Tour: Cairo, Amman & More - 12 Days

This 12-day cultural itinerary starts in Cairo, where you'll explore the bustling capital city and visit the pyramids of Giza before embarking on a three-day cruise down the Nile River to discover some of Egypt's most famous temples. Fly to Amman in Jordan to tour the historic city, visit the ruins of Gerasa, and travel to the ancient city of Petra for one night. Enjoy a desert drive across Wadi Rum's otherworldly landscape and spend your final night floating on the Dead Sea.

Mortuary Temple of Ramesses III at Medinet Habu, Luxor
Egypt in December: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

With its cooler temperatures and bustling energy, December is one of the best times of the year to visit Egypt. The weather is pleasant and special events abound as tourists spill in for the holidays. It's more crowded than usual; however, the extra bodies also bring an exciting, fun-filled atmosphere with crowded markets and vibrant nightlife.

Egypt in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
Egypt in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

November is one of the best times of year to visit Egypt. It's the beginning of winter and the temperatures cool off dramatically, offering respite from the scorching heat of the summer months. The crowds grow in size this time of year but don't yet hit the peak that arrives in December and January. It's a fantastic month to discover the many treasures of the world's oldest civilization.

Cruising the Nile River
Egypt in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

By October, temperatures throughout Egypt have finally begun cooling down (although keep in mind that "cool" is a relative term in this part of the world). Daytime highs range from 88 to 100°F, depending on where you are in the country; however, it's not the unbearable heat of the summertime (which hovers constantly in the triple digits). Not only that, the crowd sizes are more moderate, making it an excellent time to explore the ancient ruins or swim in the crystal blue ocean.

Sunset at the Great Pyramids
Egypt in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

September marks the end of the hot summer and the beginning of the transition into cooler weather in Egypt. Temperatures are still warm but no longer sweltering hot, especially toward to middle and end of the month. It's a fantastic time to wander through the ancient ruins in or swim in the turquoise sea, taking advantage of the "best of both worlds" atmosphere.

Date palms in Sharm El Sheikh
Egypt in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The summer season in Egypt is a hot time and August is no exception. Daytime temperatures can range 96 to 105°F and the midday heat can at times feel sweltering. That said, it's also a time when very few tourists visit and prices are low, making it an enticing option for certain types of travelers. Although hot, the Pyramids of Giza and other wonders are no less awe-inspiring this time of year.

Sharm El Sheikh resort on the Red Sea
Egypt in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

July is the hottest month of the year in Egypt and for that reason, it 's considered low season. Due to the high temperatures, many tourists avoid booking trips and the crowds thin out substantially. This makes it a great time to visit if you're someone who can tolerate a little extra heat—you'll have much more room at the pyramids and other historical sites, and the costs go down, too. Best of all, there are still plenty of destinations—particularly on the beaches—where temperatures are still pleasant and the evenings cool off considerably.

Sinai Peninsula desert sunrise
Egypt in June: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

By June, summertime is in full swing and, along with it, considerable heat. That doesn't mean you can't have a fantastic Egyptian vacation this time of year but you do have to plan your destinations a bit more thoroughly. The beaches along the Red Sea are stunning and full of life and in Cairo, the temperatures are cooler as well. Southern destinations, however, can reach temperatures of up to 106°F during the days, making it an undesirable time for most tourist attractions. The upshot is there are far fewer tourists during this low season.

Egypt's Red Sea
Egypt in May: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

May is the beginning of the summer in Egypt and one of the hotter times of the year to visit. It's a magical time to head to the Red Sea coastal resorts where temperatures are slightly cooler and the gentle sea breezes help temper the heat. Plus, you can often scoop up end-of-season deals and there are fewer tourists crowding the attractions. Inland and farther south, the heat can be oppressive and the desert is known for sandstorms this time of year so it's best to stick to the northern region.

Egypt in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
Egypt in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

April is still considered shoulder season in Egypt, however, the weather is considerably hotter than it is in May and toward the end of the month the crowds begin clearing out significantly. This makes it a great time for a visit, particularly if you can tolerate the more intense heat that begins arriving at the end of the moth. It' not scorching hot yet and you can enjoy a "best of both worlds" scenario where the weather is reasonably pleasant but the crowds are smaller.

Red Sea resort in Egypt
Egypt in March: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

March is shoulder season in Egypt and without a doubt one of the best times of year to visit. The weather begins warming up as winter comes to an end; however, the temperatures are not yet scorching hot. This makes it a fantastic time to stroll through the ancient ruins and explore the historical sites. Plus, as a bonus, the crowds begin thinning out, giving you the space you soak up all of the wonder.

Great Sphinx of Egypt
Egypt in February: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

High season is in full effect in Egypt in February. The weather is cooler this time of the year and the air is more pleasant, a fact that draws many tourists to visit the world's oldest civilization. It's the perfect time to check out the Pyramids of Giza and other key historical sites where you'll find temperatures idyllic for strolling around the magnificent ruins and watching the ancient cities bustle with life.

Egypt in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
Egypt in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

January is wintertime in Egypt which makes it one of the best times of the year to visit. The weather is cooler in Cairo and around the Nile-Delta region so you won't have to deal with the stifling heat of the summer months yet it's still sunny and beautiful. Farther south, temperatures stay hot but ease up in the evenings. The pleasant weather brings larger crowds but if you can tolerate other tourists, it's the perfect time for a trip.

The Nile river
Map of Jewels of The Nile: Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan - 8 days
Jewels of The Nile: Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan - 8 days

Explore Egypt on a luxurious Nile River cruise as you visit Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Highlights will include visiting the Pyramids of Giza, seeing art and artifacts at the Egyptian Museum, and Karnak Temple in Luxor. As you cruise down The Nile, you will also have time to relax and take in the scenery.

 Pyramids of Giza
Map of Discover the Great Pyramids, Aswan & Abu Simbel - 8 days
Discover the Great Pyramids, Aswan & Abu Simbel - 8 days

On this eight-day cruise, you'll have time to marvel at the wonders of Egypt and relax while traveling on one of the largest artificial lakes in the world — Lake Nasser. You'll see major sights like the Great Pyramids of Giza, the ancient structures of Aswan, and the monumental temples at Abu Simbel.

A safari adventure in the Siwa Desert
Map of Ancient Egypt & Oasis Adventure: Cairo, Alexandria & Siwa - 10 days
Ancient Egypt & Oasis Adventure: Cairo, Alexandria & Siwa - 10 days

Discover some of Egypt's most historic and exotic locales as you travel from Cairo across the country to the western oasis of Siwa. First, marvel at the great pyramids of Giza, see pharaohs' treasures in the Egyptian Museum, and tour one of the finest libraries of the ancient world in Alexandria. Then continue west to the Siwa Oasis to visit archaeological sites and enjoy a desert safari.

Felucca sailboats on the Nile
Map of Egyptian Highlights of Cairo & The Nile - 8 Days
Egyptian Highlights of Cairo & The Nile - 8 Days

Follow the ancient Nile down through Egypt to sail to some of the ancient world's most dramatic structures. Spots such as Karnak, Luxor, and Abu Simbel evoke the complex structures of ancient Egyptian life and architecture, while a city tour of Cairo and a trip to the Aswan Dam will help bring you into Egypt's present.

Pyramids of Giza
Map of Luxury Egypt: Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, & More - 9 Days
Luxury Egypt: Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, & More - 9 Days

Experience some of the most popular sites of the ancient world in style on this nine-day Egyptian luxury tour. You'll start off in Cairo, then cruise down the Nile to visit towering temples, elaborate tombs, and other monuments as you travel in style.

Pyramids & Sphinx
Best of Cairo & Alexandria - 4 Days

Hit the highlights of Cairo and neighboring Alexandria on this tour. Over the course of four days, you'll see the Pyramids and Sphinx along with the extensive archives of the Egyptian Museum, views from Cairo Tower, and remnants of the ancient world in Alexandria.

Spires on the skyline of Cairo
Map of Highlights of Egypt: Cairo & Sharm El Sheikh  - 7 Days
Highlights of Egypt: Cairo & Sharm El Sheikh - 7 Days

On this weeklong tour of Egypt, you'll enjoy a mix of cultural sightseeing and outdoor adventures. Tour ancient Egyptian landmarks in Cairo, behold the grand pyramids and the Sphinx in Giza, and see Roman ruins in Alexandria. Then you'll fly to the coastal resort of Sharm El Sheikh, venture out on a grand safari around Dahab, and relax by the Red Sea before circling back to the capital city.

Views from the Nile River
Map of Nile River Cruise & Cultural Tour: Cairo, Luxor & Aswan - 10 Days
Nile River Cruise & Cultural Tour: Cairo, Luxor & Aswan - 10 Days

See Egypt by land, sea, and air on this unforgettable 10-day adventure. Start in Cairo and the legendary pyramids of Giza, then fly to Luxor and take a ride down the Nile River, stopping to tour ancient temples along the way. Circle back to the capital and immerse yourself in Cairo's Islamic heritage as you visit mosques and museums and browse for souvenirs at the 14th-century market, Khan el-Khalili.

Giza Pyramids
Map of Best of Cairo - 4 Days
Best of Cairo - 4 Days

On this quick, eventful journey, experience the best of Cairo. Tour the Egyptian Museum, which includes antiques that date back 5,000 years, followed by a visit to the famous Cairo Tower. Then, enjoy a concert in Giza surrounded by the pyramids and the Sphinx. Next, tour the Old Cairo churches, mosques, and market stalls, and enjoy delicious Egyptian fare.

The Great Sphinx of Giza
Map of Egypt Cultural Tour From Cairo - 5 Days
Egypt Cultural Tour From Cairo - 5 Days

This five-day trip is anchored in Cairo and takes you to Egypt's top cultural highlights. Begin with major attractions in the capital city, touring the Egyptian Museum to see the King Tut exhibit. Then, detour to Giza to visit the iconic pyramids and the Sphinx and day-trip to Alexandria to explore ancient Roman ruins. Finish the trip back in Cairo, where you'll learn about Islamic traditions and go for a dinner cruise on the Nile River.

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

Secure & easy booking

Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.