A trip to Egypt is like traveling back in time to the fascinating world of the pharaohs. It’s an exploration of breathtaking temples and a perfect mix of culture and relaxation. I chose a 12-day tour and am excited to share my experiences, highlights, and tips.
My Itinerary: The Steps On My Route
1. Cairo (1-2 Days) – Loud, Chaotic, but Full of History
Cairo is massive, noisy, and in some areas quite dirty. The area around the pyramids was a bit of a shock: impoverished and poorly maintained. Most accommodations near the pyramids don’t meet European standards – after a bad first night, I switched to a hotel chain.
That said, the Pyramids of Giza are absolutely awe-inspiring and a must-see! The newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum, showcasing breathtaking artifacts from thousands of years, is also worth a visit. The over 3,000-year-old Death Mask of Tutankhamun is one of the most famous artifacts in the world. I booked a guided day tour for both sights, which was a great decision. This tour operater I really can recommend, since I booked two tours with them and both went flawlessly and were very informative!
2. Luxor (1-2 Days) – The City of Temples
Luxor captivated me with its monumental structures and deep history. The Luxor Temple, illuminated at night, creates a magical atmosphere. Equally impressive is the Karnak Temple, a gigantic complex of massive columns and obelisks, connected to the Luxor Temple by an avenue of sphinxes.
The Valley of the Kings, the final resting place of many pharaohs, is another must-visit. The tombs of Ramses VI and Tutankhamun are especially worth seeing. A hot air balloon ride over the Nile Valley is highly recommended. However, unlike in Cappadocia, the balloons don’t all take off at once but in phases, meaning you might start after sunrise or not at all if the wind changes. Also, there is no Uber in Luxor, so taxi fares can be exorbitant.
A must-do in Luxor is a felucca ride on the Nile. These traditional sailboats provide a peaceful and authentic way to experience the river and enjoy the sunset over the water.
3. Nile River Cruise (7 Days) – Relaxing but with Some Surprises
A Nile cruise is one of the best ways to explore Egypt. The ships are comfortable, and the slow pace allows time to take in the incredible temples.
The Philae Temple in Aswan is a true gem. Originally built on Philae Island, it had to be relocated stone by stone to Agilkia Island in the 1960s to prevent it from being submerged under Lake Nasser. The Kom Ombo Temple, dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek and the falcon-headed god Haroeris, is also a fascinating site.
The Abu Simbel Temple, one of Egypt’s most impressive structures, was also relocated to save it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. The colossal 20-meter-high statues of Ramses II are astonishing in their size and detail.
Important to know: Nile cruise ships often dock side by side, meaning your cabin view might be blocked by another ship rather than offering a river view.
4. El Gouna (3 Days) – Luxury and Relaxation at the Red Sea
After an eventful journey, El Gouna was the perfect place to unwind. This lagoon city boasts beautiful beaches, top-notch restaurants, and a relaxed atmosphere. I highly recommend the hotel Casa Cook El Gouna: I had a room with direct pool access, and the pool was even heated – a dream! I booked half board, and breakfast was outstanding, with a wide variety of options, fresh juices, and live cooking stations for egg dishes. In the evenings, a delicious multi-course meal with local and international dishes was served. The service was top-notch. The only downside: the beach wasn’t particularly impressive.
A trip to Orange Bay Beach or a snorkeling tour of the coral reefs is also highly recommended.
If you have more time, I recommend extending the trip by 2-3 days in the Siwa Oasis or spending more time at the Red Sea. Or you could shorten your time on the cruise ship and stay elsewhere for longer.
My Highlights
Everything you need to know about a Nile Cruise
On a Nile cruise, all ships follow the same route from Luxor to Aswan and back, with stops in Edfu and Kom Ombo. Depending on your schedule, you can choose between three nights (Aswan to Luxor), four nights (Luxor to Aswan), or seven nights (round trip). Since there aren’t enough docks, ships often moor not only side by side but also in rows, meaning your cabin view might be blocked by another ship. Departure and arrival times can change on short notice, so flexibility is key. There’s a wide range of cruise options—from luxury to older vessels, with either buffet or à la carte dining. Checking reviews can help you find the right ship.
- The breathtaking Pyramids of Giza and the incredible atmosphere surrounding them
- The Luxor Temple, which looks magical at night
- The Valley of the Kings, with its stunning tombs
- The Nile cruise, offering a relaxed way to travel
- The Philae Temple, a stunning island sanctuary saved from flooding
- The Abu Simbel Temples, which were impressively relocated
- The perfect blend of culture and relaxation, capped off with a stay in El Gouna
What I Didn’t Like About Egypt
- Pushy taxi drivers and aggressive street vendors
- Lack of organization and punctuality: Some tour operators didn’t respond to inquiries for days. Many tours started up to 1.5 hours late. The cruise company only sent the itinerary with all times a few days before departure
- Egypt is heavily geared toward group travel – independent travelers might face challenges.
Food You Must Try in Egypt
Egypt offers an incredible variety of dishes that create an unforgettable culinary experience with their rich flavors and spices. A must-try is Koshari, a hearty street food dish made of rice, lentils, pasta, and a tangy tomato sauce, topped with crispy fried onions. It’s not only delicious but also a symbol of Egyptian cuisine. Another popular dish is Ful Medames, a traditional breakfast made from slow-cooked fava beans, served with olive oil, lemon juice, and spices. Pair it with freshly baked flatbread for the perfect combination. If you’re in the mood for something hearty, don’t miss Molokhia, a green herb soup often served with chicken or rabbit – its unique taste is a delightful surprise for many.
For meat lovers, Kebabs and Kofta are a must. These grilled meat skewers are served with a variety of dips and sides and are a favorite at celebrations and gatherings. And, of course, no meal is complete without something sweet: Basbousa, a moist semolina cake soaked in syrup, or Umm Ali, an Egyptian take on bread pudding, are the perfect desserts to end your meal. Whether on bustling markets, in small eateries, or at restaurants, Egyptian cuisine invites you to explore and savor every bite.
Conclusion: What I Wish I Had Known Before Traveling To Egypt
- Accommodations near the Pyramids: Many hotels offer great views but are often of poor quality. The area around the pyramids is very impoverished, and this is reflected in the condition of many accommodations.
- Taxis in Luxor: There is no Uber in Luxor, and taxi prices are often inflated as drivers tend to take advantage of the situation.
- Nile Cruises: Cruise ships are frequently docked one behind the other, meaning there’s no guarantee of a Nile view from your cabin while in port.
- Hot Air Balloons in Luxor: Unlike in Cappadocia, balloons in Luxor don’t all take off at once. Instead, they launch in waves, which can mean you might only be in the air after sunrise—or not at all if the wind changes.
- Drone ban: Bringing drones into Egypt is prohibited. Without official registration, penalties can include fines or even imprisonment.
- Winter temperatures: Daytime temperatures range from 20–26°C, but nights can get surprisingly cold, so packing warm clothing is essential.
Despite a few inconveniences, my trip to Egypt was an unforgettable experience filled with history, culture, and stunning landscapes. I would do it again in a heartbeat!
