The Ultimate 9-Day Egypt Itinerary
Experience the beauty of Cairo, Giza, Luxor, & Siwa Oasis
This 9-day, 8-night tour of Egypt will take you to some of the country's most legendary sites, including the Pyramids of Giza, the bustling streets of Cairo, and the shores of the Nile in Luxor. We'll also journey to the beautiful and truly unique Siwa Oasis in the Sahara Desert.
For folks who may have missed our Egypt trip in March, it's not too late to experience the same adventure yourself by personalizing my Ultimate Egypt Itinerary.
Days
Day 1: Cairo
Arrive to Cairo International Airport, and get arranged transfer to the hotel. Use the first day to rest and get used to the time difference. Use the additional free time to explore and grab something to eat. In this itinerary, I shared several great hotel options for you to pick from. I also listed a few local food options worth trying.
Eat
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Sobhy Kaber
The best restaurant in Cairo for Egyptian food! -
Hawawshi El Rabie
Famous for their delicious hawawshi! -
EL Hamra ST. Restaurant
Excellent street food shawarma wraps! -
مطعم القزاز Kazaz
A reliable local chain -
Abou Tarek
The most famous spot for Egypt's national dish, koshary!
Stay
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Cleopatra Hotel. -. فندق كليوباترا
(Suggestion 1) Solid mid-range option -
Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir Cairo
Upscale option on Tahrir Square -
Cairo Hub Hostel
Affordable accommodations with a great staff -
The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo
Ultimate luxury on the Nile -
Marriott Mena House, Cairo
5 stars and the best view of the Pyramids -
The Square Boutique Hotel
Solid mid-range option
Transit
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Arrive to Cairo International Airport
Arrive to Cairo International Airport, pre-arranged transfer to hotel, rest, and enjoy free time to explore.
Day 2: Pyramids of Giza
Take in an exceptional view of the pyramids while having breakfast, then set out for a full day exploring the different Pyramids of Giza. Visit the Saqqara Pyramids, Ounas Pyramids, and the three iconic pyramids of Giza. Visit the Papyrus Museum to learn about this ancient form of paper, then head back to the hotel. Dinner cruise on the Nile river, featuring belly dancing and a tannoura show.
Visit
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Saqqara Pyramids
The lesser known Egyptian pyramids -- even older than the Great Pyramids! -
Three iconic pyramids of Giza
Go inside if you're brave enough! -
(Optional) Camel ride in the desert
Camel ride to a panoramic viewpoint of all three iconic pyramids. -
Papyrus Museum
Learn how this incredibly strong ancient Egyptian paper is made.
Eat
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Dinner cruise on the Nile river
Dinner with entertainment! https://www.viator.com/Cairo-tours/Dinner-Cruises/d782-g3-c5640
Transit
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Local Guide (Option 1)
I recommend hiring a guide for this day because they will directly pick you up from your hotel and drop you off. Between the Saqqara Pyramids and the Great Pyrids of Gize is a 50 minute car ride. Having a guide will save you time and they will take care of all the entry fees. More importantly, a guide will prevent you from getting scammed. https://www.iegypttravels.com/programs/Private-Pyramids-and-Saqqara-Day-Tour -
Taxi (Option 2)
Most taxi drivers (or private drivers hired through hotels) are more than happy to head out of town on day-trips, such as Saqqara from Cairo. For out-of-town journeys, make sure you agree to the price with the driver beforehand.
Photos
Day 3: Luxor
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Cairo International Airport for your flight to Luxor. Upon arrival to Luxor, head out to explore Luxor's east bank temples, including Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple. Then cross the Nile River to the west bank and visit Hatshepsut Temple, the Valley of the Kings, and the Colossi of Memnon. Explore Luxor's busy markets and visit the city's famous alabaster and marble workshops.
Visit
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Karnak Temple
The largest ancient Egyptian temple! -
Boat ride on the Nile River & view of Luxor Temple
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Valley of the Kings
See where dozens of Egypt's pharaohs were buried and explore their colorful tombs. -
Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut
One of the most spectacular and well-preserved ancient Egyptian sites. -
Colossi of Memnon
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Luxor Markets
Explore Luxor's busy markets and visit the city's famous alabaster and marble workshops.
Stay
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Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor
Ultimate luxury in a historical setting -
Steigenberger Resort Achti
All around great hotel -
New Everest Hotel
Affordable option with friendly service
Transit
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Fly to Luxor
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Private Guide and Driver (Option 1)
This is another day where I recommend getting around by private guide and driver. All of your transportation is take care of and you get to tour each of these sites with someone who is extremely knowledgeable. https://www.egypttailormade.net/en/day-tours/luxor-day-tours.html -
Taxi (Option 2)
If you are staying on the East Bank of Luxor, you can expect to pay 200 – 300 EGP to hire a taxi to take you to Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, and the museums. However, this price depends on your negotiating skills. Make sure you have agreed on the price and the places you plan to visit before getting in the taxi. -
Head out to explore Luxor's east bank temples
Photos
Day 4: Luxor → Cairo
Early morning start for an incredible hot air balloon ride over Luxor at sunrise! Enjoy tea, coffee, and a snack on the way to the balloon, then head back to the hotel afterwards for a full breakfast. Transfer to Luxor Airport after checkout and fly back to Cairo. Upon arrival to Cairo, transfer to downtown Cairo and explore the historical Tahrir Square and Talaat Harb Square. Learn about the history of Cairo and visit one of the city's oldest traditional pastry shops. Try out Egyptian shisha, shop for souvenirs, or explore downtown Cairo independently. Take an optional ride on a felucca boat to enjoy the sunset on the Nile River ($10 per person).
Visit
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Incredible hot air balloon ride over Luxor at sunrise
Enjoy tea, coffee, and a snack on the way to the balloon! A driver will pick you up at your hotel and take you to the launch spot, where you’ll get a quick safety briefing before floating up to the sky. As you soar over the ancient city, your pilot guide will point out various historic attractions and tell you a bit about the area’s rich ancient history. Read more about Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride Experience in Luxor - https://www.viator.com/tours/Luxor/Cheap-trip-Luxor-Hot-Air-Balloon-Ride/d826-129136P8 -
Explore the historical Tahrir Square and Talaat Harb Square
Learn about the history of Cairo and visit one of the city's oldest traditional pastry shops. Try out Egyptian shisha, shop for souvenirs, or explore downtown Cairo independently. -
(Optional) Ride on a felucca boat to enjoy the sunset on the Nile River
Transit
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Fly Back to Cairo
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Transfer to downtown Cairo
Photos
Day 5: Cairo → Siwa Oasis
Have breakfast at the hotel, then depart to explore Cairo. Tour the Salah El-Din Citadel and Mosque of Muhammed Ali, then visit the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, including the Royal Mummies Hall. Discover Old Cairo: Shop for souvenirs at Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, visit the Al-Azhar Mosque (if open), and walk along one of Cairo's liveliest streets, El-Muizz Street. Have tea or coffee at Fishawy Cafe, the oldest cafe in Cairo. In the evening, have dinner at one of Cairo's most famous restaurants: Sobhy Kaber. Then depart via private van on the overnight drive to Siwa Oasis.
Visit
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Salah El Din Citadel
The seat of the Ottoman government in Egypt. -
Mosque of Muhammad Ali
Explore this beautiful Ottoman-style mosque. -
National Museum of Egyptian Civilization
The largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts in the world. -
Khan El Khalili Bazaar
Shop for souvenirs and try your hand at bargaining like an Egyptian! -
Al-Azhar Mosque
One of the most important educational centers in Islam.
Eat
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El Fishawy Cafe
Stop for a coffee or tea at one of Cairo's oldest and most famous cafes. -
Sobhy Kaber
The best restaurant in Cairo for authentic Egyptian food!
Transit
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Overnight: Drive to Siwa Oasis (Guide)
This is another portion of the trip where I would recommend a guide. A guide will include accommodations and transportion to and from Siwa-Cairo. https://www.iegypttravels.com/programs/3-days-Siwa-Oasis-Adventure-iEgypt-tours
Photos
Day 6: Siwa Oasis
In the morning, arrive to the legendary Siwa Oasis in the far west of Egypt and check-in to our unique Siwi camp accommodations. Enjoy breakfast and relax by the pool or explore the camp. In the afternoon, visit some of Siwa's most significant historical sites, including the Oracle Temple, the Mountain of the Dead, and Shali Castle. Watch the sunset from the beautiful Fatnas Island, then enjoy dinner at the best restaurant in Siwa, the famous Albabenshal.
Visit
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Oracle Temple
Set foot where Alexander the Great was named ruler of Egypt. -
Mountain of the Dead
Explore tombs from the Greek and Roman periods. -
Shali Castle
The best view of all of Siwa Oasis! -
Fatnas Island
Watch the sunset from the beautiful Fatnas Island.
Eat
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Albabenshal restaurant Siwa
Local food in an incredible setting -
Abdu Resturant
Great local food -
Muhra
Fresh food in a relaxed setting
Stay
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Mountain Camp ALI KHALED
Laid back accommodations with natural hot springs on site
Transit
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Arrive to the legendary Siwa Oasis in the far west of Egypt
Photos
Day 7: Siwa Oasis
After breakfast at our camp, head off to take a dip in the breathtaking Salt Lakes of Siwa, and experience the sensation of natural buoyancy! Then head onwards to the historical Cleopatra Spring. Take a swim, enjoy a local Siwi juice, and relax. Before sunset, depart for the sand dunes outside of Siwa for an adrenaline safari! Try out sandboarding in the biggest desert in Egypt. Take a plunge into the hot spring or cold lake, then enjoy the sunset in the desert with local snacks and drinks. Head back to camp for a special Bedouin dinner and party.
Visit
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Salt Lakes
Take a dip and experience weightlessness in the breathtaking Salt Lakes of Siwa! -
Cleopatra Spring
Take a swim, enjoy a local Siwi juice, and relax. -
Sand Dunes Siwa
Try out sandboarding in the biggest desert in Egypt. Take a plunge into the hot spring or cold lake, then enjoy the sunset in the desert with local snacks and drinks.
Transit
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Head onwards to the historical Cleopatra Spring
Photos
Day 8: Siwa → Cairo
Have breakfast at our camp, then take an optional hike to the top of Dakrour Mountain to take in a breathtaking view of the whole oasis from the top. Swim and relax at our camp for a bit before checking out. Head into town and explore Siwa's unique markets. Shop for souvenirs like Siwi dates, natural cosmetics, carpets, clothes, and handmade goods. Take some free time to explore this one-of-a-kind town.
Visit
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Dakrour Mountain
Visit Dakrour Mountain to hike for sunrise. -
Siwa's unique markets.
Shop for souvenirs like Siwi dates, natural cosmetics, carpets, clothes, and handmade goods. Take some free time to explore this one-of-a-kind town.
Transit
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Overnight: Drive to Cairo
Photos
Day 9: Cairo → Home
Arrive in Cairo in the morning, and prepare to depart from Cairo International Airport. If your flight is later in the day, feel free to explore more of Cairo independently.
Transit
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Depart from Cairo International Airport.
Checklists
Checklist: Clothing Packing List
- Lightweight and breathable clothing (cotton or linen) to cope with the hot climate. Pack both long and short-sleeved shirts, pants, and skirts.
- Modest clothing for visiting religious sites. Women should carry scarves or shawls to cover their heads, and both men and women should avoid revealing clothing.
- A lightweight jacket or sweater for cooler evenings or air-conditioned spaces.
- Swimwear if you plan to visit beach destinations or go diving/snorkeling.
- Comfortable walking shoes or sandals for exploring historical sites and walking on uneven terrain.
- Flip-flops or water shoes for beach visits or showering in shared facilities.
- A wide-brimmed hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen with a high SPF.
- A small daypack or bag to carry essentials during day trips.
Checklist: General Packing List
- A travel adapter and/or voltage converter if necessary.
- Portable charger/power bank to keep your devices charged on the go.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes for hygiene purposes.
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, etc.) and any necessary medications.
- Passport and copies of important travel document
Notes
FAQ
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Is Egypt safe?
Egypt welcomes millions of tourists every year, and is generally a very safe place to visit. As in any country, visitors should follow common sense guidelines in order to have the best experience possible (keep valuables secure, avoid flashy clothing/accessories, etc.). Throughout the duration of the trip, you will be accompanied by experienced American and Egyptian guides. If you have more specific questions about safety & security in Egypt, get in touch with us.
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What is the food like?
Egyptian food is delicious and we'll be eating a lot of it! You can expect a mix of meat and vegetarian dishes. Included in the trip price are 12 group meals - the rest are independent. We feel this gives you the best opportunity to try as many different foods as you'd like, while also keeping the trip price affordable. Many meals in Egypt can cost as little as a few dollars. Please let us know if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies so we can accommodate you!
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Do I need a visa to visit Egypt?
If you are a citizen of one of the following countries, you can obtain a Visa On Arrival to Egypt: United States, United Kingdom, European Union, Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Russia, Serbia, Ukraine. Citizens of these countries are also eligible to apply ahead of time for an e-visa, which may save time at the airport. https://www.visa2egypt.gov.eg/eVisa/Home
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What is the best time to visit Egypt?
The best time to visit Egypt is during the cooler months, from October to April, when temperatures are more comfortable. However, Egypt can be visited year-round, with the summer months being hot, especially in Upper Egypt.
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Can I drink tap water in Egypt?
It's generally advisable to drink bottled or purified water in Egypt to avoid any potential stomach issues. Bottled water is readily available and affordable throughout the country.
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What are the transportation options in Egypt?
Egypt has various transportation options including taxis, private drivers, domestic flights, and trains. In cities like Cairo, there are also ride-hailing services available. It's recommended to use reputable transportation providers and negotiate prices in advance if using taxis.
More from Doug Barnard
My name is Doug Barnard and I am an American content creator and travel guide. I travel full-time and I'm sharing all of my adventures with you on YouTube! Come along as I explore the places less traveled and meet the people who call those places home.
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