Egypt, the country on the Nile, has fascinated for thousands of years with its rich history, impressive monuments and breathtaking landscapes. A tour of this fascinating country offers a unique opportunity to experience the diversity of Egypt up close, from the majestic pyramids and temples of antiquity to the beautiful beaches of the Red Sea.
Egypt, the country on the Nile, has fascinated for thousands of years with its rich history, impressive monuments and breathtaking landscapes. A tour of this fascinating country offers a unique opportunity to experience the diversity of Egypt up close, from the majestic pyramids and temples of antiquity to the beautiful beaches of the Red Sea.
A journey through Egypt can take many forms, each with its own charm and focus. The most popular types of tours include Nile cruises, tours of the pyramids and other historical sites, desert adventures, and combinations of culture and seaside relaxation.
The Nile, Egypt's lifeline, runs through the country like a blue ribbon and connects numerous historical sites. A Nile cruise is therefore a particularly popular way to explore Egypt. Many tour operators offer river cruises, often combined with stays in Cairo and the Red Sea coast. These cruises usually take place on comfortable 5-star ships and include full board and guided excursions to the main attractions along the Nile, such as Luxor, Aswan, Kom Ombo and Edfu. An example of this is a 10-day trip that goes from the pyramids in Cairo to the beaches of Hurghada via a 5-star Nile cruise.
The combination of exploring ancient wonders along the Nile and the comfort of a modern cruise ship makes this type of trip particularly attractive. Travelers can tour the impressive temples and tombs while enjoying the amenities of a hotel. It is also common to combine a Nile cruise with a subsequent beach holiday on the Red Sea to combine culture and relaxation in one trip.
The Pyramids of Giza are undoubtedly the most famous landmark in Egypt and an absolute must for every visitor. Almost every Egypt tour includes a visit to these impressive buildings, which are among the last remaining wonders of the ancient world. But a historical journey through Egypt is not limited to Giza. Many tours also take you to other important sites such as Sakkara with its step pyramid, Memphis, the former capital of the Old Kingdom, the Valley of the Kings in Luxor, where the tombs of the pharaohs are located, and the Karnak Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in the world.
These historical tours often offer the opportunity to delve deep into the history of ancient Egypt and marvel at the impressive achievements of this early civilization. From the colorful reliefs and hieroglyphs in the temples to the mysterious pyramids, these journeys provide a fascinating insight into the world of the pharaohs.
In addition to the historical sites, Egypt also offers breathtaking desert landscapes that invite you to exciting adventures. Desert safaris are a popular option for travelers who want to experience the unique beauty of the Egyptian deserts. These safaris often lead to the White Desert with its bizarre limestone formations, the volcanic Black Desert and remote oases such as Siwa and Bahariya.
The activities on these desert tours are diverse and range from exciting jeep rides through the dunes to romantic camel rides at sunset to unforgettable overnight stays in traditional Bedouin camps under the stars. Some providers also organize quad tours in the desert areas around Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh or trips to the colorful Colored Canyon. These desert adventures provide a fascinating contrast to the historical sites and allow travelers to discover Egypt's natural and cultural diversity.
A particularly popular form of Egypt tour is the combination of exploring the country's cultural treasures and a relaxing swim at the Red Sea. Many tour operators offer such combination trips, which make it possible to experience the fascinating history of Egypt and then relax on the beautiful beaches of Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh.
These trips often begin with a visit to the historical highlights along the Nile, such as Cairo, Luxor and Aswan, before ending with a stay at one of the many Red Sea resorts. There, travelers can enjoy the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, explore the colorful coral reefs by diving or snorkeling, or take part in various water sports activities. This combination of culture and relaxation offers an ideal balance for a varied and relaxing holiday.
Egypt is home to a variety of fascinating travel destinations that are included in most tours. The absolute highlights undoubtedly include Cairo, Luxor, Aswan and Hurghada, but other places such as Alexandria and Abu Simbel are also often part of the itineraries.
Cairo, the vibrant capital of Egypt, is the starting point of their tour for many travelers. The city impresses with a fascinating mix of history and modernity. Key attractions include the famous Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum with its priceless collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, the bustling Khan el-Khalili Bazaar where one can immerse themselves in the oriental flair, and the Citadel of Saladin with the impressive Alabaster Mosque. Cairo offers a vivid insight into the country's rich history and culture while also being a modern metropolis with a vibrant nightlife.
Luxor, once the magnificent Thebes, is another highlight of every Egypt tour. The city on the banks of the Nile is considered the largest open-air museum in the world and is home to some of the most impressive temples and tombs of ancient Egypt. These include the majestic Karnak Temple, the Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings with the tombs of the pharaohs, including the famous tomb of Tutankhamun, and the Hatshepsut Temple. The colorful reliefs and hieroglyphs in these ancient sites provide a fascinating impression of the highly developed culture and religion of ancient Egypt.
Further south on the Nile is Aswan, a picturesque city with a relaxed atmosphere. Key attractions include the Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis and located on an island in Lake Nasser, the impressive Aswan High Dam and the option of a Nile River cruise on traditional feluccas. Aswan is also the gateway to Nubian culture, reflected in the architecture, colorful markets and local cuisine. From Aswan it is also possible to take a trip to the impressive rock temples of Abu Simbel.
Hurghada, located on the Red Sea coast, is a popular holiday destination for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts. The city offers beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters and first-class diving and snorkeling spots where you can explore the fascinating underwater world with its colorful coral reefs and exotic sea creatures. In addition to relaxing on the beach, Hurghada also offers a lively nightlife and is a good starting point for desert safaris.
In addition to the main destinations mentioned, there are many other places in Egypt that are worth visiting and are often integrated into tours:
Alexandria: This historic Mediterranean port city combines ancient and modern influences and is home to the famous Library of Alexandria and the Citadel of Qaitbay.
Abu Simbel: The impressive rock temples on Lake Nasser, built by Ramses II, are a testament to ancient Egyptian engineering and an unforgettable destination.
Giza: Although often considered part of Cairo, Giza is the specific location of the famous pyramids and the Sphinx.
Sharm El Sheikh: Another popular Red Sea resort, known for its luxurious hotels and excellent diving.
Siwa-Oase: A remote oasis in the Western Desert with a unique culture and natural beauty.
Marsa Alam & Quseir: These southern Red Sea coastal towns are known for their pristine beaches and world-class diving spots, often quieter than Hurghada.
El Gouna: A charming lagoon city north of Hurghada, also known as "Egypt's Venice".
Sakkara & Memphis: These ancient necropolises near Cairo offer further fascinating insights into the history of Ancient Egypt.
Dahab: A laid-back coastal town on the Sinai Peninsula, particularly popular with divers and backpackers.
The diversity of these destinations shows that Egypt has something to offer for every taste and tours are often designed to include a wide range of these fascinating places.
The best travel time for an Egypt tour depends largely on individual travel interests and preferred climatic conditions. In general, Egypt is a country with a hot and dry climate, although there are regional differences.
In the north of Egypt, on the Mediterranean coast, there is a Mediterranean climate with noticeable seasons. Summers are warm and dry, while winters can be mild and bring occasional rainfall. The interior and south of the country are dominated by a desert climate with very hot summers and mild winters. In the desert regions, temperatures can vary greatly between day and night. Humidity is generally low outside the Nile Delta, making the high temperatures more bearable.
For tours that include historical and cultural sites in the Nile Valley (Cairo, Luxor, Aswan), the months are October to May generally the best time to travel. During these months the temperatures are pleasantly warm, ideal for sightseeing, and there is hardly any rain. Spring (March to May) and autumn (October and November) are particularly recommended with warm but not too hot days. The summer months from June to September can be very hot inland and are less suitable for intensive sightseeing tours.
For a beach holiday Roten Meer The conditions are good almost all year round. The summer months (June to August) are very hot, but the proximity to the sea ensures a pleasant breeze. The water temperatures are then ideal for swimming and diving. However, many prefer the milder temperatures in spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) for a beach holiday. Winter (December to February) on the Red Sea is also an attractive travel destination for many people to escape the European winter, with pleasant daytime temperatures around 20-25°C and water temperatures above 20°C.
For Wüstensafaris are the months October to April is the most suitable as temperatures are milder and the extreme heatwaves of summer are avoided.
To help plan travel time, the table below provides a monthly overview of average high and low temperatures and average rainy days for some of the top destinations in Egypt. The data is based on information from various sources.
|
Month |
Cairo (max/min °C) |
Luxor (max/min °C) |
Aswan (max/min °C) |
Hurghada (max/min °C) |
Rainy days (Cairo) |
Rainy days (Luxor) |
Rainy days (Aswan) |
Rainy days (Hurghada) |
|
January |
19 / 9 |
23 / 5 |
24 / 8 |
24 / 11 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
|
February |
21 / 10 |
25 / 7 |
26 / 9 |
24 / 10 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
|
March |
23 / 12 |
27 / 10 |
29 / 12 |
25 / 12 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
April |
28 / 15 |
35 / 16 |
36 / 18 |
28 / 17 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
May |
32 / 18 |
39 / 20 |
40 / 22 |
32 / 23 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
June |
34 / 20 |
41 / 23 |
41 / 24 |
34 / 24 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
July |
34 / 22 |
41 / 24 |
42 / 25 |
38 / 24 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
August |
34 / 22 |
40 / 23 |
41 / 24 |
37 / 26 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
September |
33 / 20 |
39 / 21 |
40 / 23 |
36 / 24 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
October |
30 / 18 |
35 / 17 |
36 / 19 |
33 / 20 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
November |
25 / 14 |
29 / 12 |
30 / 15 |
28 / 17 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
December |
20 / 10 |
24 / 7 |
25 / 9 |
26 / 12 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
This table provides general guidance. Actual weather conditions may vary.
Getting around Egypt during a tour is varied and offers suitable options for different needs and budgets.
For travelers with limited time or traveling long distances between far-flung destinations such as Cairo and Upper Egypt or the Red Sea, domestic flights are a practical option. Many tours include domestic flights to shorten travel time and allow more time to see each location. For example, people often fly between Cairo and Luxor or Aswan. Airplanes are also often used to travel to the Red Sea resorts such as Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh, as there are no train connections to these cities.
The train is another way to get around Egypt, especially for the route along the Nile. The sleeper between Cairo and Luxor or Aswan is a comfortable option for overnight journeys and often offers full board. There are also air-conditioned first and second class express trains connecting Cairo with other major cities such as Alexandria. However, the Egyptian rail network is partly outdated and train cancellations and accidents can occur. Special tariffs may also apply for foreign travelers.
Buses are a common and often inexpensive means of intercity transportation in Egypt. There are both state and private bus companies. Some private companies such as Go Bus offer more modern and comfortable buses, for example on the route between Luxor and Hurghada. Within cities, public buses are very cheap, but often overcrowded and not always easy for tourists to use due to a lack of clear markings and timetables. Minibuses are also a common inner-city option, but can be challenging for non-locals. Driving on Egyptian roads is often described as risky, so caution is advised.
The Nile cruise is not just a means of transport, but an integral part of many Egypt tours. It offers a relaxed and comfortable way to discover the many sights along the Nile while floating on the river.
Various means of transport are available to tourists within the cities. Taxis are widely available, but it is advisable to negotiate the fare in advance or insist on using a meter to avoid fraudulent behavior. In Cairo, the metro is a quick and cheap way to get around. There are also ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem that provide an alternative to traditional taxis. Horse-drawn carriages can also be used for short distances in tourist areas.
The costs for an Egypt tour can vary greatly, depending on the duration of the trip, the type of accommodation, the means of transport chosen and the included services desired. Generally, travel costs can be divided into three categories: budget-friendly, mid-range and luxurious.
Egypt is easy to travel even with a smaller budget. Budget-friendly tours are often shorter (7-10 days) and include basic accommodation (e.g. hostels or basic hotels), use of public transport such as buses and trains, and visits to major attractions. Prices for such tours can start at around 400 to 800 euros per person. Savings can be made by eating at local restaurants, using inexpensive transportation, and booking the trip in the off-season.
Mid-range tours usually offer a good compromise between comfort and price. These tours often include accommodation in 3 or 4 star hotels, may include a Nile cruise on a 4 or 5 star ship and organized excursions to the main attractions. The prices for such trips are usually between 800 and 1500 euros per person for a duration of 7 to 10 days. Often some meals and domestic flights are also included.
For travelers who value maximum comfort and exclusive experiences, luxury tours offer a variety of options. These trips usually include stays in 5-star hotels, luxury Nile cruises on high-quality ships (e.g. Dahabiyas), private transfers and guided tours with expert Egyptologists. The prices for such trips often start at around 1300 euros and can be significantly higher depending on the duration, included services and type of accommodation. These trips often include special experiences such as hot air balloon rides or private sightseeing.
To get a better idea of typical costs, here are some sample cost breakdowns (excluding airfare unless otherwise noted):
7-day budget tour (Cairo & Luxor): from around 400-700 euros per person (simple hotels, use of buses and trains, guided tours to the main attractions).
10-day mid-range tour with Nile cruise (Cairo, Luxor, Aswan): from around 1000-1800 euros per person (3 or 4 star hotels, 3 or 4 day Nile cruise with full board, domestic flight Cairo-Aswan).
14-day luxury tour with a beach stay (Cairo, Nile cruise, Hurghada): from around 2500-4500 euros per person (5-star hotels, luxurious Nile cruise, all-inclusive resort on the Red Sea, domestic flights).
These prices serve as a rough guide and may vary depending on the tour operator, season and individual preferences. It is advisable to compare different offers and check the exact services included.
Egypt tours are offered with different thematic focuses in order to meet the different interests of travelers.
A majority of Egypt tours focus on the country's rich history and culture. These trips visit the most important archaeological sites, temples and museums and often offer detailed insights into the world of the pharaohs from expert tour guides. Travelers can explore the Pyramids of Giza, Karnak and Luxor Temples, the Valley of the Kings, and many other historic sites, immersing themselves in Egypt's fascinating past.
For the adventurous, there are tours that focus on exploring the Egyptian deserts and landscapes. These trips often include desert safaris by jeep or camel, visits to oases such as Siwa and Bahariya, sandboarding, and overnight stays in Bedouin camps. They offer an active and close to nature experience and allow you to get to know the impressive beauty of the Egyptian desert.
As already mentioned, combinations of cultural trips and beach stays on the Red Sea are very popular. These trips allow you to see the historical and cultural highlights of Egypt and then relax on the beaches of the Red Sea and explore the underwater world. They offer an ideal balance between activity and relaxation.
In addition to the main topics mentioned, there are also tours that are tailored to specific interests. These include diving trips that focus on exploring the fascinating underwater world of the Red Sea. Family travel often offers kid-friendly activities and accommodations to create an unforgettable vacation for the whole family. Themed trips at specific times, such as Christmas and New Year's Eve trips, are also on offer. Not to be forgotten are the numerous Nile cruises, which are often offered as a standalone focus or as part of a more comprehensive tour.
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