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Experience Luxury Egypt Travel with High End Journeys

• Luxury Egypt Travel: Our Approach

High End Journeys is a boutique luxury travel agency, started by Egyptologists and best friends, Ahmed Aziz and Ramez Salama. Both share a passion for travel and draw on their combined industry experience of 34 years to deliver a personalized itinerary for their guests. They work with a singular aim in mind - to create unforgettable memories for every traveler.

Francis Tapon

Together we have over 30 years of experience in the Luxury Tour industry in Egypt, directing tours with one of the leading companies in the luxury market around the world.

While we value the comfort and amenities existing luxury tours offer, we both have come to realize that too often these luxury tours were missing a real human connection - and especially an opportunity to connect with the people of Egypt and the valuable sites and experiences that are off the well-beaten track of every other luxury tour.

Our vision was to create a tour experience that offered all of the comfort and standards that one has come to expect from over 100 years of luxury tours in Egypt, but with a modern spin that caters to the traveler committed to experiencing the hidden gems of Egypt outside of the typical tourist bubble.

The more we imagined what a new generation of luxury touring could become, the more we realized we were uniquely qualified to offer those experiences to our clients.

Five years ago, while both directing on the same luxury cruise on the Nile, we had one especially enthusiastic client who encouraged us out of his own experience as an entrepreneur and businessman, to make our dream a reality today while we were young and positioned to become leaders in changing the luxury tour market in Egypt into the future.

So we took that leap of faith in 2016 and established High End Journeys in 2017. Come along with us as we take you off the beaten path to experience the future of travel in Egypt.

This is our vision for what a high-end luxury tour should be all about: connecting people to people; helping people experience Egypt outside the tourist bubble; allowing Egypt to inspire and change our understanding of the world around us all. Egypt’s ancient history and timeless culture have the power to transform the lives of our guests. We have witnessed that incredible transformation first hand and know that we are called to accompany this next generation of travelers to Egypt to continue to be changed by its people and its treasures.

Travel Egypt in luxury, the way you want

Feel like watching the sunset by the Giza Pyramids? Or want to savour wine on a private yacht as you sail down the river Nile? Or want to dine on an authentic gourmet meal on a felucca on the river at Aswan?

Give us your bucket-list and we will make it happen!"

Mike & Tonya Irwin

Meet the founders

Ahmed Aziz and Ramez Salama first met each other while studying at the School of Egyptology. They are both Egyptologists and have been helping travelers since 2003, to discover the authentic side of their country. They are also former employees to some of the best luxury tour operators in the world. They started High End Journeys together in 2016 - curating journeys and sharing insider stories that “wow” their guests.

Ahmed Aziz is a professional Egyptologist. He graduated in 2003 from the Faculty of Tourism & Hotels, Cairo University with a Bachelor’s degree in Egyptology. He has personally guided a host of high-end clients throughout Egypt, including Hollywood stars, distinguished politicians and the world’s biggest businessmen. He has been married since 2006 and is a father of one. He is a former member of the Egyptian national water polo team. He is an Ironman triathlete and endurance sports enthusiast. He has also managed hospitality and travel arrangements at some of Egypt’s top sporting events.

RAMEZ SALAMA

Ramez Salama's love and passion for his country and its amazing history led him to study Egyptology from Helwan University. He has guided a selection of leading diplomats, foreign businessmen, and world-famous musicians. He loves meeting people from different countries and explore their cultures. He has traveled to over fifteen countries - from the Great Wall of China to the game parks of Eastern Africa. He has seen the great castles of Europe, and hiked across the outstanding nature trails of North America. Ramez delivers lectures on Egyptian history and heritage at American churches and schools – particularly in Kansas, Texas, and California. He also serves as a guest lecturer on Windstar Cruise Line. Ramez’s area of expertise is Pharaonic Egypt, and he takes pleasure in leading clients around the Great Pyramids of Giza.

Meet the team

Mahmoud Fekery

Mahmoud Fekery Born and raised in Monufia, a small town near Cairo, he earned a degree in Tourism and Hospitality from Cairo university in 2006. His love and passion for his job has made him excel in what he does. He is a very detailed oriented. He is responsible for all the logistics of the tour on ground. Our travelers always feel in love with him and that is why he gained the title "The Guardian Angel"

Hala El Sayeed

Hala El Sayeed is born and raised in Cairo. She earned her degree in Political Science from the American university in Cairo back in 1987. Her love and passion for Egyptian history led her to study Egyptology and guide tours from 1993. Hala holds a Master degree in Islamic Art. Hala is always eager to introduce Egypt in its glorious past, educate her guests on the contemporary and modern history of Egypt, explaining the different traditions and cultures that form the Egyptian character.

Ola Zayed is an Egyptologist guide. She has been in business for the past 26 years. Ola has a wide experience working with American guests from university alumni associations such as Duke, Yale, Virginia, Maryland and a lot more. She excels in giving lectures about ancient and modern Egypt where her strength is in delivering the picture of the Egyptian life through her own eyes as an Arab-Egyptian woman who roamed the world.

Assem Omar born and raised in Alexandria, he has been a licensed Egyptologist for over 28 years. Assem’s passion in life is guiding travelers who would like to explore and learn in depth about Egypt’s amazing culture & wonderful traditions. It is always his pleasure to meet new people who share his passion and enthusiasm towards history & ancient monuments.

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• Luxury Egypt Travel: The Ultimate Guide
• Luxury Nile Cruises - The Ultimate Guide
• Tailor Made Egypt Tours

Creators of tailor-made trips in Egypt

Passion and Expertise since 1981

Create your bespoke private trip with our best specialists

CLASSICAL PROGRAMS

Enjoy a relaxing Nile cruise, while visiting the amazing monuments of Luxor, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Aswan and Abu Simbel

SPECIAL PROGRAMS

Egypt is not just a historical destination. So if you are into adventurous and mysterious escapes. Check this section.

TAILOR MADE TOURS

Should you wish to create your own Egyptian Experience, our dedicated team will guide you through.

BEACH HOLIDAYS

Get out of this world and chill on the Red Sea beautiful beaches (Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, Marsa Alam and Quseir)

Cairo & Nile Cruise with a Dahabeya

Cairo & Upper Egypt

Cairo & Cruise from Luxor to Aswan

Cairo, Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor & Red Sea stay

Honeymoon Cairo, Nile Cruise & Fayoum Oasis

Cairo & Alexandria

Témoignages de nos clients

Merveilleux voyage très bien organisé par Chérif.Un grand merci à Ayman pour avoir su adapter notre programme et nous avoir fait découvrir Dachour au Caire et un autre grand marci à Ali pour sa disponibilité, son humour et sa gentillesse. Nous étions une famille de 11 dont 3 enfants et n'avons eu nulle part un sentiment d'insécurité. C'est le moment pour y aller, avec l'agence Cheops si possible car ils savent s'adapter à nos besoins, et le peu de touristes rend les visites très agréables. Un grand merci encore à Chérif à toute l'équipe

Huge thank you to the whole Cheops Travel team and especially Chérif, Irinie and our guides Ragui and Mohamed who will leave us great memories of their beautiful country! We spent a week on the Cairo - Luxor - Aswan tour on a cruise. Everything went very well, organization at the top and guides of extraordinary kindness. All the sites visited are grandiose, with a plus for the pyramids and the colored hieroglyphics of the Valley of the Kings. Thank you!

Un grand merci à toute l'équipe de Cheops Travel pour ce merveilleux voyage à travers le temps et l'espace, à la découverte de l'Egypte antique et moderne. L'organisation par Cheops Travel a été parfaite, les guides Aymen et Ali ont été géniaux, dévoués, et efficaces. Nous sommes partis à 11 personnes, de 5 ans à 67 ans, et les guides se sont adaptés à chacun de nous. Ils nous ont fait partagé leur passion et leur enthousiasme. Mon garçon de 5 ans nous parle encore de "Iron Man" (Ayman) et de Ali et il veut déjà retourner en Egypte pour les voir :-) A aucun moment nous n'avons eu l'impression de ne pas être en sécurité. Seul petit regret : ne pas avoir de vacances plus longues afin de visiter encore plus de lieux et de culture... 5000 ans d'histoire en 7 jours c'est un peu court... Une visite du nouveau Musée du Caire sera à faire lors d'un prochain séjour, quand mon garçon sera plus grand. Et pour ceux qui hésitent à visiter l'Egypte... n'hésitez plus, le spectacle est encore plus grandiose quand on est sur place, les Pyramides, les temples, le désert, le Nil, c'est encore plus beau "en vrai" que dans les livres.

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Individual Egypt holidays shaped around your passions

Pyramids rise above sun-baked sands. The Sphinx stares, unblinking, into a relentlessly blue sky. Boats wend their way down the waters of the Nile. Traders hawk their wares in the dusty bazaars. In many ways, Egypt seems timeless, unchanging. However, modern politics are very present in this ancient land and our specialists continue to visit Egypt to gauge the atmosphere and levels of service available throughout the country.

In our experience it remains a friendly and hospitable place, and our experts can craft a tailored itinerary to help you explore this dynamic destination. A cruise down the Nile  is still one of the most effective ways to see Egypt, including the archaeological treasures around Aswan and Luxor. But there is more to see on an Egypt holiday than the ancient sites — coral reefs in the clear waters of the Red Sea, afternoon tea at the Victorian-era Old Cataract Hotel, medieval sites in the souqs of Cairo.

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Suggested tours for Egypt

Cruise the Nile in a traditional dahabiyya, take a private tour of the Temple of Karnak in Luxor, and explore the Bent Pyramid at Dahshur. Our suggested itineraries are a great starting point as you begin to plan your trip to Egypt.

Highlights of Egypt: Cairo & Nile cruise

7 days from £2,995pp

Luxury Luxor & Red Sea beaches

8 days from £2,745pp

Classic Cairo, Luxor & Aswan overland

9 days from £3,245pp

Cairo & the Red Sea family adventure

8 days from £3,745pp

Luxury Cairo & the treasures of the Nile

10 days from £5,995pp

Jordan & a romantic Egyptian Nile cruise

16 days from £4,945pp

Suggested activities for Egypt

Explore the tombs on the West Bank of Luxor on a private tour, walk through the temples at Abu Simbel, and visit the pyramids at Giza, Saqqara, and Dahshur. Whatever your interests, our specialists will suggest experiences designed to enhance your trip to Egypt.

Abu Simbel tour, Egypt

The great Sun Temple of Abu Simbel epitomises the monumentalism of the New Kingdom during its imperial heyday, when Ramses II waged colonial wars from the Bekaa Valley in Lebanon to the Fourth Cataract.

Giza, Saqqara & Dahshur

As the only survivor of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the pyramids at Giza occupy a unique place in world history, and are a perennial favourite with travellers.

Philae Temple Excursion

Take a short boat ride before disembarking into a colonnaded courtyard, which will lead you into Philae Temple itself, flanked by wonderfully carved pylons.

Why travel with Audley?

• 100% tailor-made tours
• Fully protected travel
• Established for over 25 years
• 98% of our clients would recommend us

Best time to visit

Our specialists advise on the best months to visit Egypt, including information about climate, events and festivals.

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Covering all seven continents, The World Your Way shows you how you can see the world with us. It features trip ideas from our specialists alongside hand-picked stays and experiences, and introduces our approach to creating meaningful travel experiences.

Useful information for planning your holiday in Egypt

Modern Standard Arabic is the official language of Egypt. However, you’ll mostly hear people speaking the Egyptian dialect, a colloquial variety of Modern Standard Arabic that has some different words and pronunciation. While people in other Arab countries speak different varieties of Arabic, Egyptian Arabic is widely understood because Egyptian cinema and soap operas are popular across the region.

That said, all of the guides we pair you with can speak English to varying degrees, and you should be able to communicate with drivers, market stall vendors, and other service workers in larger cities and towns. However, in Upper Egypt, away from the main visitor sites, souqs, and hotels, people might not speak any English at all.

The currency of Egypt is the Egyptian pound (LE or EGP), which is divided into 100 piastres (PT). Bank notes come in denominations LE5, LE10, LE20, LE50, LE100, and LE200 and coins in denominations of LE1, PT50, and PT25.

You can use credit cards in hotels, as well as larger restaurants and shops, but not in many other places. There are ATMs in most major towns, and foreign currency can be exchanged for the Egyptian pound at many bank branches and Forex outlets.

You’ll find plenty of falafels, hummus, kofta, and flat bread in Egypt. But for something a little different, we recommend trying Nubian food in the south, such as bamia, an okra stew, or kushari, a spicy lentil and chickpea dish, both of which are typically cooked in earthenware pots.

Egypt has a long history of brewing, so you could try one of the local beers, such as Stella, not to be mistaken with Stella Artois, or Saqqara Gold. For something non-alcoholic, try a sweetened tea with mint leaves or a sugarcane juice.

Tipping, known as baksheesh locally, is expected for almost any service given to you, and you should aim to tip 10–15% in restaurants on top of the standard service charge and VAT.

You should also tip guides, drivers, porters, and other service workers, even if the service given is very small. However, the amount depends on various factors, so we can provide you specific guidance before you travel.

That said, some people will request a tip without even offering a service, such as approaching you and giving you advice or information without you requesting it. In these instances, we recommend that you say no to any unsolicited help and walk away.

For the latest travel advice for Egypt, including entry requirements, health information, and the safety and security situation, please refer to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office website .

Most people come to Egypt for its sun-baked pyramids, hieroglyphics-carved tombs, and riverside ruins that date back thousands of years, but while there, you can also unwind on the deck of a luxury ship on the Nile, watch vividly patterned fish dart in and out of coral reefs as you snorkel in the Red Sea, or try your hand at bartering in the spangled souqs of Cairo.

We can pair you with an Egyptologist who will reveal the secrets of pharaohs and ancient peoples as you descend into 4000-year-old tombs that still appear to be freshly painted, attempt to decrypt the symbols etched into towering columns, and walk alongside the ever-watchful mythical creatures carved out of stone.

Egypt offers a wealth of different stays, including luxury beach resorts, classically designed hotels overlooking the pyramids, and Nile cruise ships that range from simple and comfortable to around-the-clock butler service. While there are many international hotels dotted around Egypt, we can help you find more characterful stays too, such as a rustic Nubian-style ecolodge or a 19th-century Victorian hotel  perched on a pink granite cliff overlooking the Nile.

Our specialists can help you find an Egyptian stay to suit your tastes, but, in the meantime, you can take a look at a selection of the hotels we have to offer .

It’s usually best to start your Egypt trip in Cairo where you can take in the towering pyramids of Giza before heading onto Luxor  and Aswan to further unravel the mysteries of Ancient Egypt. In Luxor, you can explore the Valley of the Kings, Colossi of Memnon, and Temple of Ramesses III, while Aswan  cradles the imposing temple complexes of Edfu and Kom Ombo as well as the Temple of Philae.

If you’d like to unwind after a whirlwind tour of Egypt’s pharaonic lands, you could add on a beach stay at either Hurghada or El Quseir to swim and snorkel in the coral-adorned Red Sea , or head north to Alexandria to learn about the Greco-Roman past of this now-chilled-out city.

Many people also combine Egypt with a trip to Jordan to witness the third-century ruins of Petra .

It takes around 5–7 hours to fly from the UK to Cairo, Egypt. We recommend flying with British Airways, Air France, Egypt Air, and a few other airlines, which we can advise on.

The time zone in Egypt is GMT+2 from October to April and GMT+3 from April to October.

The best way to get around Egypt across longer distances, such as between Cairo and Luxor, is to fly, and then you can take private cars with a guide for shorter distances. Another popular way of seeing Egypt is taking a cruise along the Nile between Luxor and Aswan, discovering the ancient civilisations that flourished on the riverbanks along the way.

British passport holders typically need a three-month visa to enter Egypt. These can be purchased before you travel on the official government website or you can buy one on arrival for $25 per person, which must be paid in US dollars.

You should check with your doctor to see which vaccinations you’ll need for Egypt, but we recommend that you’re at least up to date with the vaccinations recommended for your home country. You can take a look at suggested vaccinations for Egypt on the Travel Health Pro website .

Your passport must be valid for six months after the date of departure from Egypt and have a minimum of one unstamped double page free.

Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, and while you don’t need to cover up completely, the more you do, the less unwanted attention you’ll get. Men should never be in public without some kind of shirt on, and women are best to cover their shoulders and knees. You should remove shoes if visiting a mosque, no matter your gender, and women will need to cover their hair.

The weather in Egypt is typically hot and dry during the day but can become much cooler in the evening during the winter months (December to March), so we also recommend packing layers, as well as comfortable and sturdy shoes.

During the holy month of Ramadan, many Muslim locals will be fasting, and while you won’t be expected to fast too, you shouldn’t eat, drink or smoke in public out of respect. You may find that restaurants and shops change their opening hours to help staff who are fasting and attending the mosque for prayer, but hotels and visitor sites will remain open as normal.

No, it’s forbidden to photograph any military or government buildings in Egypt. Similarly, you should also avoid photographing bridges, canals, or anything that could be construed as having strategic significance. Your guide will be able to help you understand what you can and can’t take photos of during your trip.

Egypt in pictures

Our expert guides to travelling in Egypt

Written by our specialists from the viewpoint of their own travels, these guides will help you decide on the shape of your own trip to Egypt. Aiming to inspire and inform, we share our recommendations for how to appreciate Egypt at its best.

Nile cruises: the route to ancient Egypt

A Nile cruise is the classic way of exploring Egypt. Drift down the Nile in a comfortable cruise boat, making stops to visit Ancient Egyptian temples and tombs. Egypt specialist Steve outlines how you can make the most of your cruise.

10 min read

Luxury Egypt: live like a pharaoh

A room at the foot of the Great Pyramid, an opulent ship on the Nile, and private guides — Egypt specialist Emma outlines the most indulgent ways to enjoy the country’s classic sights.

What to do in Egypt: our highlights guide

Home to some of the world's most historical monuments and best dive sites, Egypt's size makes it possible for the first-time visitor to see many of its highlights in a relatively short trip.

Family holidays in Egypt

From the sun-baked pyramids of Giza to the imposing Temple of Karnak, Egypt’s ancient monuments hold a special allure for people of all ages. Here, specialist Sharidan explains the best places to stay and things to do for a family visiting Egypt.

Jordan and Egypt: Petra to Giza and Luxor

In the sun-baked desert of Egypt and a hidden wadi in Jordan, ancient empires built enormous stone edifices that still stand thousands of years later. Middle East specialist Albert discusses the best way to see both countries on one trip.

Honeymoons in Egypt

A private tour of Giza’s pyramids, an opulent Nile cruise to see the ancient temples and tombs, snorkelling amid the thriving reefs of the Red Sea — specialist Hannah discusses what you might do on a honeymoon in Egypt.

Past civilisations of Ancient Egypt

Discover the culture and history of Ancient Egypt on a tailor-made trip. Our knowledgeable specialists can create a unique itinerary for you that suits your interests, including a few places that you might not have known about.

Discover more about Egypt on our blog

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Places we feel connected to — and how to see them at their best

Other popular destinations.

Still looking for ideas? If Egypt has captured your interest, we think you might also like these destinations.

Egypt has a long and fascinating history. There are few who haven’t dreamed or wondered about the building of the pyramids in Giza, cruising the Nile, exploring the tomb of King Tut or diving into the life of Cleopatra. Because of its position on the Mediterranean and the Red Sea, Egypt has played an important role in commerce and geopolitics for over four millennia. The third most populous country in Africa (with over 100 million people), Egypt has a rich cultural history that lives on today. A visit to old Cairo (city of 1,000 minarets) is like stepping back in time, and the plethora of well-preserved antiquities and monuments makes Egypt a top destination for travelers from around the world.

Let us help you customize the perfect luxury Egypt tour for you! Contact a Journey Specialist to get your questions answered and to begin planning your Egypt safari. Call us at 303-778-1089 .

highlights of egypt

Things To See and Do

Let us customize the perfect luxury egypt safari.

Below are our recommended places to visit. Contact us today or call 303-778-1089 to learn more about how we are able to customize the perfect luxury Egypt safari just for you!

Cairo is the first stop for many visitors to Egypt. Home to the Great Pyramids of Giza, the enigmatic Sphinx, an outstanding museum of antiquities and the largest bazaar in the Middle East, Cairo is a “must-see” for most visitors. With both Coptic and Islamic areas of the city, there are churches, mosques, museums, palaces and monuments galore. Cairo has a thriving and diverse art scene with myriad galleries and spaces hosting exhibitions ranging from cutting-edge art to traditional painting and sculpture.

There is much to explore in Cairo in addition to traditional sightseeing. People watching in the city is fascinating and the street food begs to be sampled. World-class cosmopolitan dining is also an option, and travelers will find cuisine not just from Egypt but from around the globe. Specialty markets abound throughout the city, allowing visitors a glimpse of the day to day lives of Cairenes.

Luxor is another top destination. Luxor has the highest concentration of ancient Egyptian monuments. It is home to the Valley of the Kings, a vast city of the dead where a long succession of pharaohs had their remains buried along with everything that they might need in the afterlife. Other attractions include the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, the Temple of Luxor, the Colossi of Memnon and the Temple of Karnak. The Luxor Museum is a worthwhile stop with an excellent collection of treasures from nearby temples.

The Nile River

The Nile River is the world’s longest and one of the cradles of human civilization. One of the best ways to experience the Nile is on a cruise where you can enjoy the ever-shifting scenery. Along the way you can visit the Philae Temple on the Island of Agilka, the Kom Ombo Temple dedicated to the Crocodile God Sobek and the Temple of Horus, among others.

The Red Sea

The Red Sea offers some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in the world. The Sinai beaches of Sharm el-Sheikh and Dahab are an excellent place to relax and enjoy a different side of Egypt.

Located in the southern Nile Valley, Abu Simbel is home to two massive rock temples guarded by colossal statues of Ramses II and others. Among the most spectacular in Egypt, the monument is a testament to modern engineering, having been moved to higher ground when the Aswan Dam was built in 1959.

From world-class museums to coastal pleasures, Alexandria is a great place to escape summer heat. The city drips with atmosphere and its faded architecture gives it a romantic feel. It has fantastic seafood and its many outdoor cafes invite travelers to while away the afternoon with beautiful views and a relaxing vibe.

For divers, Alexandria is a dream come true! The city has sunk substantially over the centuries, so much of it is now under water. When you don your gear, you will have the chance to see Cleopatra’s Palace, an underwater island teeming with Greek and Roman ruins and one of Napoleon’s ships that sank in 1798, to name a few.

When to Visit

October through January is Egypt’s cooler season, making it an ideal time to visit. Days are pleasantly warm while nights can sometimes be chilly. Ramadan takes place between March and April and can be a fascinating time to visit. After sunset things become very lively in the cities. We prefer to avoid the high temperatures of summer (June – August).

Divers wishing to visit the Red Sea will find the best conditions from July – September. Calm seas, warm water and excellent visibility more than make up for hot temperatures on land.

Related Reading

Traveler’s corner: africa’s nature & cultures, journey specialist hilary explores egypt, top 12 places to visit in 2019, contact a journey specialist, let our journey specialists help create your trip of a lifetime.

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egypttravelexperts Egyptian Travel Agency and Tour Operator in Egypt, established in Cairo, the capital and heart of Egypt since 2000, we specialize in internal tours that extend from renowned sites to the most secluded regions of Egypt to the beautiful waters of the Red Sea. The Ministry of Tourism recognizes Min Travel under License No. 593 - category (A) as a pioneer member of the Tourist Chamber and the Egyptian Association of official Tour Operators in Egypt. We offer Egypt Guided Tours, Luxury Tours, Land Tours, Nile Cruises, Egypt Day Tours, Shore Excursions & Tour packages to anyone who wants to travel to Egypt on individual or group tours.

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Top Destinations

Egypt has a lot to offer and you can’t finish counting all the things you will experience once you land there. From visiting ancient pharaonic places to cruising down the Nile, and discovering the Egyptian culture and traditions. Here are top Egypt tours, Nile river cruise, and Egypt luxury tours.

cairo (4 tours)

Alexandria (3 tours)

Aswan (7 tours)

Hurghada (2 tours)

Luxor (5 tours)

Red Sea and Sinai

Popular trips.

The origin of the word travel is most likely lost to history. The term travel may originate from the Old French word travail.

Private Tour to Kom Ombo and Edfu Temples: Unveiling Ancient Mysteries

Philae Temple Sound and Light Show with Private Transport

Aswan: Guided Tour to High Dam, The Obelisk & Philae Temple by Motorboat

Aswan tour ( the temple of philae – high dam )

Private Full Day Tour: To Aswan From Luxor

Aswan Day Tour Visiting Philae Temple, Unfinished Obelisk and High Dam in Aswan

TripHot Air Balloon Ride in Luxor, Egypt – VIP

Private Guided Night Tour of Cairo

Private Tour To Giza Pyramids,Sphinx With Entry Inside The Great Pyramid

Explore Cairo ( 4 Tours )

Explore Luxor ( 10 Tours )

Villa sun Rise Guest House ( 1 Tour )

Special offers.

The origin of the word travel is most likely lost to history.

Private Day Trip to Abu Simbel Temple with Guide from Luxor

Full Day Private Tour in Museums of Alexandria City in Egypt

Alexandria Full Day Tour

Why book with us.

Looking for top Egypt day tours and excursions? check out our Egypt day trips best seller and book now, a wide range of Egypt day trips, things to do in Egypt such as: Cairo day tours, Luxor excursions, Hurghada excursions, Sharm el Sheikh day tours and much more.

The White Desert in Egypt is a natural wonder that will leave you in awe.

Discover the captivating beauty of Egypt

Egypt is a country that is rich in history

Egypt Tours & Holidays

Awesome ancient wonders, endless golden sands and atmospheric local souqs make Egypt the ultimate travel destination.

You’ve got to see it to believe it in Egypt – the chaos of Cairo (seriously, this city never stops); the bustling bazaars; the imposing glory of the Pyramids of Giza and the world’s most famous lion with a human head (the iconic Sphinx). Only in Egypt can you sail into the sunset on a felucca cruise along the Nile, marvel at the world's most spectacular temple complexes, wander through Luxor’s Valley of the Kings, and then float facing towards the sky in the glittering expanse of the Red Sea. Take a moment as time stands still in Egypt.

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Egypt at a glance

Capital city.

Cairo (population 9.4 million)

107.5 million

Egyptian pound (EGP)

(GMT+02:00) Cairo

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin)

Learn more about Egypt

Best time to visit egypt.

Egypt is blessed with lots of sunshine and very little rain. Generally, the hottest months are June to August, and the coolest month is January. Rainfall is negligible, except on the coast, with rain usually occurring during the winter months (December to March).

During the summer months (from June to August), daily temperatures can reach 40 degrees Celsius - perfect for snorkelling and soaking up the sun on the beaches of Sinai, but can prove challenging for some in the crowded streets and souqs of Cairo. 

Choose to escape the crowds by travelling from March to May or September to November when the weather is milder, and there's the opportunity to experience Egypt during Ramadan and the celebrations of Eid (which marks the breaking of the fast). If you are planning to travel during Ramadan, it's important to consider that many restaurants and shops will either be closed or operating on reduced hours.

Read more about the best time to visit Egypt

Culture and customs

Life in Egypt has been in a state of flux since the 2011 revolution. Many of the issues that motivated so many to take to the streets in protest continue to be points of contention, but Egyptians remain hopeful, relying on religion, family and humour to get them through, like they have for thousands of years. A strong sense of community binds people across the country. Families and communities support each other and there is a prevailing sense that everyone is in it together. For all these reasons, most express great pride in being Egyptian, despite their nation’s recent turmoil.

As a largely Muslim country (about 90% of the population is Muslim while most of the remaining 10% identify as Coptic Christian), Islam permeates daily activities. Life revolves around the five daily prayers and everything is closed on Friday, the Muslim holy day. A wide array of cultural norms, including how people dress and interact with the opposite sex, are influenced by religion. Women are largely defined by their role as a mother and matron of the house, whereas men are expected to be the provider.

Many Egyptians consider their country the gateway between the West and the rest of the Arab world, and take pride in their ability to mix tradition with modern influences. This mixing is most apparent in major cities, such as Cairo and Alexandria, where American fast-food chains can be found next to traditional cafes, secular attitudes are more common, and pop music rings through city streets.

Food and drink

With fragrant spices, fresh fruit and vegetables, and delicious sweets on offer, culinary adventures in Egypt are guaranteed. On many Intrepid trips you'll be given the opportunity to dine with a local family – this offers a great chance to see how meals are prepared and learn more about the ingredients.

Foods to try in Egypt

1. Hamam mahshi

A north African delicacy, hamam – roasted pigeon stuffed with cracked wheat and rice – can be found on the menu of most traditional Egyptian restaurants. You may need a few to fill up though, as they don’t contain a lot of meat. And be careful of all the tiny bones.

2. Ta'ameya (falafel)

Crunchy on the outside, moist on the inside, these deep-fried balls of spiced fava beans are a Middle Eastern vegetarian staple. Usually served in a pita with salad, pickles and sesame-based tahina - buy it at a street stall for a quick, cheap meal.

Shops specializing in this popular ‘poor man’s dish’ can be found throughout Cairo. A hearty mix of rice, macaroni and lentils, chickpeas and fried onions, koshary is topped with a tomato-vinegar sauce.

4. Ful medames

Don't leave Egypt without trying the classic dish of ful medames, which can be traced back to pharaonic times. Consisting of slow-cooked fava beans, served with olive oil, parsley, garlic and lemon juice - add some spice by seasoning with chilli paste and eat with bread.

5. Pastries

Delicious, sweet pastries are found in restaurants, markets and cafes in Egypt. Never was there a better time to live by the adage ‘Life is short, eat dessert first’.

Egypt is a mostly Muslim country, and any consumption of alcohol here is relatively low-key. There are many fantastic alternatives. Juice stands are common on main streets offering freshly squeezed banana, guava, or mango juice. Karkadai is a chilled, crimson drink brewed from hibiscus leaves (served hot in the winter). And tea (or shai) is the beverage of choice for most Egyptians, which is sipped throughout the day and with meals.

Read more about what to eat in Egypt

Read more about what to drink in Egypt

Geography and environment

Located in the north-east corner of Africa, Egypt shares its borders with Israel and the Palestinian Territories, Libya and Sudan, as well as the Mediterranean Sea to the north and the Red Sea to the east. The two seas are connected by the man-made Suez Canal.

The remote triangle-shaped peninsula is largely characterised by limestone and desert, but also has a vibrant coral reef along the Red Sea coastline. Hot, dry desert covers most of the country’s terrain, with the Western Desert occupying much of the west, and the Arabian (or Eastern) Desert stretching the length of the eastern coast. These two regions are dissected by the Nile River, which runs the length of the country, emptying into the Mediterranean Sea. The Nile Valley, a narrow fertile band extending from the river, is the country’s only fertile land and where 98% of the population lives.

History and government

Recent history.

Napoleon Bonaparte, the infamous pint-sized French leader, invaded Egypt in 1798, seeking to set up a French colony. However, not long after, the French were repelled, and Egypt became a part of the Ottoman Empire once again.

From 1882, the British Army occupied Egypt to protect the Suez Canal. Muhammad Ali officially ruled from the early 1800s, and his family and successors continued to rule for decades (alongside and during British occupation) until overthrown by a military coup in 1952.

During World War II, Egypt became a crucial element in Britain's defence. The Italian Army tried to advance into Egypt in 1940 but was stopped by the British Army at Mersa Matruh. Egypt continued to serve as a vital base for British troops during World War II and despite the disruption, Egypt's shopkeepers and retail trade benefitted from the thousands of Allied troops staying in Egypt.

In 1953, Egypt was officially declared a republic and a year later, Colonel Nasser was declared Prime Minister, then President. In 1979, after decades of confrontation with neighbouring Israel, the historic Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty was signed. This agreement made Egypt the first Arab country to officially recognise Israel as a country - a significant step in the peace process. More recently, in February 2011, large scale protests and mass demonstrations resulted in the removal of President Mubarak after decades of autocratic rule.

Early history

Ancient Egypt has been the focus of much fascination, investigation, speculation and intrigue. It's hard to escape the education system without having studied Ancient Egypt in some way. Drawn in by the mighty pyramids, mysterious hieroglyphics, distinct burial rituals and animal-headed gods - scholars, students, historians and travellers are all amazed by this civilisation which has endured cycles of dynastic rule, invasion and natural disasters.

Through key archaeological finds, historians have been able to unravel some of the mysteries of this great land. What is known is that the daily life of the average Egyptian usually involved working in agriculture with the waters of the Nile providing fertile ground for planting of crops. Egyptians usually lived in modest homes with children and domestic pets. Professions were usually inherited - so if your father was a farmer, then so were you. 

While most Egyptians led simple lives, dynasties of Pharaohs led lavish lifestyles, with the most well-known being Ramses II, Hatshepsut, Akhenaten, Tutankhamun and Cleopatra. Huge monuments, imposing pyramids, golden artefacts and detailed paintings all hold details about pharaonic rule and succession, as well as commonly held beliefs about religion and the afterlife. 

Spanning centuries and full of drama worthy of a soap opera, the epic history of Ancient Egypt is complex and we suggest you read about it before visiting.

Top places to visit in Egypt

1. nile river.

Sail down the mighty Nile River on a traditional Egyptian felucca.

Trip: Egypt Experience

Trip: Explore Egypt & Jordan

Dive into the warm, glittering waters of the Red Sea on a snorkelling adventure in Hurghada.

Trip: Jordan & Egypt Express

Trip: Explore Egypt

Trip: Egypt Family Holiday

3. Alexandria

Discover the historic wonders of Alexandria, an ancient port city that locals call the Bride of the Mediterranean Sea.

Trip: Jordan & Egypt Uncovered

Experience the bustling energy of Cairo and shop for souvenirs at Cairo's Khan al-Khalili bazaar.

Trip: Egypt Adventure

5. Mt Sinai

Hike to the summit of Mt Sinai, which many believe is where Moses received the ten commandments.

Trip: Discover Egypt & Jordan

Explore the impressive chapels, pylons and obelisks of Karnak Temple.

Trip: Egypt, Jordan, Isreal & the Palestinian Territories

7. Abu Simbel

These massive monuments dedicated to Ramses II and Queen Nefertari are seriously impressive.

8. Valley of the Kings

King Tut’s treasures may be long gone, but his hieroglyphic-covered tomb remains an incredible sight to see.

Trip: Essential Egypt

Trip: Epic Egypt, Jordan & Isreal & the Palestinian Territories

Trip: Real Egypt & Jordan

Top 10 ancient wonders of Egypt

1. grand designs.

The original grand design - monumental and magnificent - the Pyramids of Giza are an impressive achievement in ancient engineering. Towering above the desert sands and standing proudly for centuries, the first glimpse of these stunning structures will render visitors breathless.

2. Stony enigma

Be captivated by the mysterious aura of the Great Sphinx of Giza. This monolithic mythical beast possesses a lion’s body and a human head - and has sat quietly in the desert sands for eons. Gaze at the Sphinx and try to work out the riddle of its existence.

3. Mighty Nile River

No trip to Egypt is complete without visiting the Nile River - the life force of Egypt that has flowed for centuries. A provider of irrigation, an essential travel route, home to hippos and crocodiles, and now a source of leisure for locals and travellers alike, the Nile is an aquatic link to Egypt’s ancient heritage.

4. Terrific temples

Discover an enormous open-air museum like no other. The awe-inspiring Temples of Karnak are filled with stately statues, immense columns and gigantic gateways. Explore this intriguing site and be left in no doubt about the brilliance of the ancient Egyptian civilisation.

5. Holy mountains

Embark on a trek to the top of Mt Sinai and witness an incredible golden sunrise to remember. A place of worship for many faiths, a pilgrimage to Mt Sinai reveals stunning scenery, an ancient monastery and historic chapels. An iconic highlight of Egypt for believers and non-believers alike, Mt Sinai is not to be missed.

6. Double happiness

Located in the Nile Valley, the unique Temple of Kom Ombo is a ‘double temple’ and a rare archaeological find. Dedicated to two gods, a visit here is a true highlight of an Egyptian escapade. Marvel at the well-preserved wall reliefs, try to decipher the hieroglyphics and honour the craftsmen who created this wonder.

7. Museum magic

Step into a dazzling world of antiquity at the Egyptian Museum. Be amazed by the glittering treasures recovered from King Tutankhamun’s tomb – with jewellery, furniture, chariots and that famous gold funerary mask, this pharaoh was certainly prepared for the afterlife.

8. Roman ruins

The Roman ruins of Kom el-Dikka in Alexandria may not be the biggest, but they are certainly among the best-preserved in Egypt, if not the world. Soak up the atmosphere of the Roman amphitheatre and imagine it in all its glory - packed with 800 spectators ready for action.

9. Colossal characters

Near the modern city of Luxor stand the imposing Colossi of Memnon. These massive stone statues of Amenhotep III, while badly damaged, still maintain an unmistakable air of authority. Stand below them and be dwarfed by the scale of these tremendous figures.

10. The ancient heart of Cairo

Wander the cobbled streets of Islamic Cairo and uncover the ancient heart of this chaotic city. Admire mosques, palaces and houses, and peruse the goods on offer at one of the world’s oldest bazaars. Dating back to medieval times, the Khan al-Khalili bazaar is where people have traded goods for centuries.

Souqs – or open-air bazaars – are both the best place to shop in Egypt and attractions in their own right. The biggest and most famous souq is the 500-year-old Khan El Khalili Bazaar in Cairo. Within the maze of narrow streets and laneways lie stalls selling jewellery, glass, copper, spices and artisan goods, along with more standard tourist fare. Quality can vary greatly so spend some time shopping around.

Like many markets around the world, bargaining is the norm, but Egyptians take it to another level. Expect to be offered tea (it can take that long) and for elaborate theatrics from the seller. While bazaars in Cairo tend to sell everything, visit Aswan’s bazaar for spices, incense and basketwork, and Luxor for cheaply priced alabaster figurines and vases. It's also a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. 

Things to buy in Egypt

You’ll often see spices piled high in bazaars. In addition to making a great photo for Instagram, they’re often a good buy as long as you keep a couple of things in mind. Always buy whole spices rather than ground to ensure freshness and skip the ‘saffron’ – it’s actually safflower and tastes like dust.

2. Glassware

Hand-blown Muski glass, recognizable by its air bubbles, comes in brilliant shades of blue and green and purple, and has been made in Egypt since medieval times. Be careful with this purchase though as it’s extremely fragile.

3. Cartouche

A kind of nameplate written in hieroglyphics. Most gold or silver shops sell these and many can customise them by engraving your name.

Festivals and events

Eid al-fitr.

After fasting for an entire month, Muslims celebrate the end of Ramadan with Eid al-Fitr, or ‘Feast of Breaking the Fast’. For three days, starting on the first day of the tenth month of the lunar calendar, people celebrate with feasts, family and festivals. Look for vendors selling kahk cookies (nut-filled cookies covered in powdered sugar) while taking in the festivities, a tasty treat synonymous with Eid for many locals.

Eid al-Adha

Arguably the most important holiday in Egypt, the ‘Feast of Sacrifice’ is not one for vegetarians and vegans. About 70 days after Eid al-Fitr, sheep and goats are slaughtered (often in the middle of the street) for a mighty feast.

Sham el-Nessim

Each year on March 21st, Egyptians celebrate the coming of spring by spending the day outdoors. Join the locals for this ancient holiday by packing a picnic and heading to a park or public garden.

Abu Simbel Sun Festival

As if the two temples dedicated to Ramses II and Queen Nefertari weren’t impressive enough, they were constructed in such a way that twice a year, the sun’s rays reach its innermost chambers and illuminate three stone gods that reside within, while leaving Ptah (god of the underworld) in the dark. And those days just happen to be Ramses’s birthday (October 21) and coronation (February 21). Coincidence? We think not.

Read more about festivals in Egypt

Similar destinations

We have a variety of similar destinations, trips and routes that you could consider! Tie another trip into your holiday, or, see how we can help you get from A to B. We have tours departing from a number of locations across Africa. The options below may be of interest:

Cairo to Madaba

Amman to Madaba

Tours from Cairo

Tours to Cairo

Egypt or Jordan?

Further reading

Egypt travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do you need a visa to travel to Egypt?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in Egypt?

Tipping is customary for pretty much all services in Egypt. A tip of 10–15% is customary at cafes and restaurants and loose change is acceptable for food purchases from street vendors and markets. It’s also a good idea to tip local guides and drivers AUD$4–5 per day.

What is the internet access like in Egypt?

Internet access is growing in Egypt, with internet cafes and Wi-Fi hotspots becoming increasingly common in large cities, especially Cairo, though access may be limited in smaller town and remote areas.

Can I use my mobile phone in Egypt?

Mobile phone coverage is generally good in Egypt’s urban areas, but may not be available in remote and desert areas. Ensure global roaming is activated with your service provider before leaving home.

What are the toilets like in Egypt?

Squat toilets are most common in Egypt, although Western-style flushable toilets can be found in larger hotels and some tourist areas.

What will it cost for a...?

Egypt's unit of currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

A couple of pastries = EGP 49 Cup of tea or coffee = EGP 35-50 Falafel sandwich from a street stall = EGP 92 Sit-down dinner at a local restaurant = EGP 200-400

Can I drink the water in Egypt?

Drinking tap water isn’t recommended in Egypt. Remember to avoid drinks with ice and to peel fruit before eating it. Help the environment and try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle with filtered water. Ask your leader or hotel where to find filtered water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Egypt?

Credit cards are usually accepted by modern hotels, large retailers and tourist sites but are less commonly accepted by smaller vendors in remote areas. Always carry enough cash for smaller purchases in case credit cards are not an option.

What is ATM access like in Egypt?

ATMs are commonly found in larger cities, like Cairo and Alexandria, near shopping centres, tourist areas and 5-star hotels, but are far less common in small towns and rural areas. Make sure you have enough cash before leaving urban areas.

What public holidays are celebrated in Egypt?

• 7 Jan: Coptic Christmas
• 28 Apr: Coptic Easter*
• 25 Apr: Sinai Liberation Day
• 28 Apr: Sham el-Nessim*
• 1 May: Labour Day
• 5 Jun: Eid al-Fitr*
• 23 Jul: National Day
• 12 Aug: Eid al-Adha
• 11 Sep: Coptic New Year
• 1 Sep: Islamic New Year*
• 6 Oct: Armed Forces Day
• 10 Nov: Birth of Prophet Mohammed*

Please note many of these public holidays are religious holidays and change each year as they are celebrated according to the Islamic lunar cycle. For a current list of public holidays in Egypt go to World Travel Guide's website.

Is Egypt a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

Discretion is advised for LGBTQI-travellers in Egypt. Though homosexuality is not officially outlawed, gay men have been prosecuted using debauchery and public morals laws and given long prison sentences. Be aware that signals are ambiguous in Egypt as men commonly hold hands, link arms and greet each other with a kiss on the cheek. As long as you use common sense, travel in Egypt should not be a problem.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex  or ILGA before you travel.

If you are travelling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travellers who do not wish to share a room.

What to wear in Egypt

Summer temperatures can get very high, so light fabrics like linen, cotton and athletic gear made to take the heat are best. If you’re travelling outside of winter, don’t underestimate the cool change that can come in the evenings, especially if you’re spending the night in the desert or on a Nile cruise. Avoid packing anything in white – desert dust will quickly turn those light-coloured clothes a not-so-delightful shade of brown.

Where will I stay in Egypt?

Travelling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavour to provide travellers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

These are some of the types of accomodations you will stay in:

Felucca Glide down the Nile on a traditional Egyptian felucca; sleep on deck under the stars as the sun slides away for the day - a must-do experience while in Egypt. Homestay

Be welcomed into the home of a local family and experience the cuisine, culture and customs of Egypt firsthand during your stay. A truly authentic travel experience like no other.

Desert camp Travel deep into the White Desert to camp under the stars amid surreal scenery. This is a rare chance to experience the remote wonder and isolation of the Egyptian desert.

Beach hut With calming Red Sea views and fresh sea breezes, this rustic breach abode is all about life’s simple pleasures.

How will I travel around Egypt?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What is it like travelling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or you’re about to embark on your first trip, travelling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organising amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), travelling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my trip to Egypt support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveller. Trips to Egypt directly support our foundation partner, Animal Care in Egypt . 

Animal Care in Egypt  

Animal Care in Egypt (ACE) cares for sick or injured working animals, like horses and donkeys, in Upper Egypt. Donations from our trips help ACE provide free veterinary care and fund education programs that empower local people with the knowledge and skills to best look after their animals. 

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Africa Chevron

Egypt Chevron

Rekindling a Love of Travel on a Grand Tour of Egypt

By Rebecca Misner

For Conde Nast Traveler' s Iconic Itineraries , we partner with our travel specialists to create classic trips through our favorite destinations that showcase the difference it makes to travel with the help of an expert.

“No cherubs, pearly gates, or having dinner with Elvis and Jesus,” says Egyptologist Hala Sayed, my private guide for today. Movie-star glamorous in a crisp blouse and white jeans, she is explaining that ancient Egyptians imagined an afterlife that didn't look so different from life on Earth. It's an early morning in September, and we're standing on the nearly empty main floor of the neoclassical, sensationally salmon-hued Museum of Egyptian Antiquities on Cairo's Tahrir Square before the tour buses have arrived to disgorge their passengers. Tombs, Hala explains, were often painted with everyday scenes—people grinding grain, having sex, brewing beer—and depicted the family members and beloved pets the deceased hoped to see again. This prosaic version of paradise was not due to any lack of imagination (these are the same people who dreamed up the wasp-headed, hippo-bodied goddess Ahti) but because “life was pretty good,” Hala says. “Egypt was heaven.”

Unfortunately, the present isn't quite so heavenly for my 12-year-old son Joe. By 9 a.m., it's pushing 90 degrees, and we've barely slept. We're at the very start of a weeklong trip—our first international adventure in over two years—visiting Cairo and sailing down the Nile to see the temples and tombs that line the river between the southern Egyptian cities of Aswan and Luxor . This is a dream trip for both of us, and today is a big one: the museum, the pyramids of Giza, and the Sphinx. However, as Joe turns from end-of-summer tan to chalky green, I can see that he is fighting a losing battle with jet lag and the heat. Before I have to make the type of lose-lose decision that parents so often have to make when traveling with unwell or unwilling kids, Hala takes charge. She calls our on-the-ground trip coordinator, and within minutes they've made a plan that everyone feels comfortable with: Our driver will pick up Joe, whose need to rest trumps his desire to see Giza, and take him to the hotel; the hotel's doctor will be looped in; and I will be updated periodically while Hala and I head for the pyramids. It's the right call, but I still feel guilty that Joe will miss out on the day he was most excited about. I promise, on the spot, to bring him back someday soon.

Boats ferry passengers between Aswan and Elephantine Island, a historic gateway between Egypt and Sudan.

The Temple of Edfu was completed in 57 B.C., during the reign of Cleopatra VII.

As we snake our way through midday traffic, Hala and I chat—about our kids, politics after the Arab Spring, and the Muslim Brotherhood's short reign in Egypt. She is a lifelong Cairene who since 1990 has worked for Abercrombie & Kent, which has been bringing travelers to Egypt for more than four decades. Like the majority of the company's guides in the country—many of whom are professors and/or former diplomats—she has a master's degree in Islamic art and architecture and is currently going for her Ph.D. She points out the new neighborhoods cropping up between Cairo and Giza, which have merged into a single megalopolis with a combined population grazing 21 million, then tells me about President Sisi's new administrative capital about 30 miles outside Cairo, which, when completed, will be the largest planned city in the world. I have missed this about travel: these casual but meaningful conversations and connections that happen during the in-between moments.

In Cairo, the past smashes up against the present like nowhere else in the world, and as we've been chatting we've been inching closer to the pyramids that loom over this most urban landscape. After a lifetime of seeing photos of the Great Pyramid, the oldest of the Giza group and the sole survivor of the seven wonders of the ancient world, I think I know what it will be like in person. I do not. The scale and the texture and the way the light hits it as the sun reflects off the surrounding desert and dips in and out of the clouds is something you have to feel. Hala has timed our visit for late afternoon, when the heat isn't so oppressive and the crowds have thinned. People are milling around, but apparently today is relatively quiet. Even pre-COVID, tourism numbers hadn't quite returned to what they'd been before the 2011 revolution. The government hopes to grow them with high-profile projects like the long-delayed Grand Egyptian Museum , whose glass-and-concrete outline I can see off in the distance. Apparently there is archaeological treasure enough to fill both the beloved Cairo museum and this one—although many big-ticket items, like all 5,600 objects excavated from Tut's tomb, will move over to the newcomer. When the $1 billion state-of-the-art facility finally opens later in 2022, after about a decade of delays, it will be the largest archaeological museum in the world.

It's even less crowded inside the pyramid. I pass a single person coming down as I climb up the steep, low-ceilinged tunnel that leads to the King's Chamber, the burial vault that lies precisely in the center of the Great Pyramid. The guard tells me that if I stand in the middle of the room and close my eyes for two minutes, I'll feel a strange energy, then leaves me to it. And I do feel something. A certain stillness or grounding. Maybe it's from being surrounded by 2.3 million blocks of granite, each weighing over two tons. Or perhaps it's that I'm standing alone in the very spot where King Khufu was laid to rest some 4,500 years ago.

There would be no Egypt without the Nile. You get a sense of this on the hour-and-a-half flight from Cairo to Aswan, about 500 miles to the south. The Sahara covers 94 percent of the country, and most of the population lives within a few miles of the river. From the air, the narrow strips of fertile land on either bank look like an emerald-green serpent winding its way across a thirsty land. Nearly every facet of life in Egypt was dictated by the Nile's rise and fall. Even how long it took to mummify a body: 70 days, because the Nile floods when the star Sirius returns to the night sky after 70 days of absence; the rebirth of the land was a metaphor for the rebirth of the deceased. Even what taxes the king collected: Most temples had a nilometer, a structure like a deep well, to measure the water level; the higher the river, the more the citizens would owe. It feels right that we'll be seeing this country by boat, journeying down the waterway that sustained both ancient and modern Egypt.

For millennia, the city of Aswan has been the gateway between Egypt and the rest of Africa, and a vibrant trade center. Besides the massive dam that was completed here in 1970, it is best known for the exchange of two precious goods: spices and camels. “Camels are the most loyal and the naughtiest of all domesticated animals,” says Mohamed Ezzat, a funny, whip-smart Egyptologist who will be with us for the next few days. We're using a free hour before we have to meet the boat to wander through the Aswan spice market. Through a boyish grin, Mohamed tells us about his uncle's camel who refused to eat or drink for two weeks out of solidarity with the uncle, who was sick and on bed rest; this is the same camel who Mohamed swears he saw smoking a hashish cigarette through his nose a few days later. We stop at Mohamed's favorite spice shop for a cup of strong mint tea with the owner, who patiently lets us sniff whatever we like, and walk out with little bags of vibrant yellow-orange cumin, beautifully perfumed cardamom pods, and dukkah, a blend of spices that tastes delicious sprinkled on hummus.

A market stall in the town of Edfu sells spices

On the Nile, a traditional felucca sailboat catches a breeze

We are sailing on the 40-cabin Sanctuary Sun Boat IV , a spacious, Art Deco–inflected vessel with plenty of places to lounge and watch life on the Nile unfold. Our days on the river take on a rhythm. Most start with an outing to a temple, followed by lunch on the boat, then another temple visit or excursion, and then back to the boat for dinner and actual sailing to the next location. On our first afternoon, while we're still docked in Aswan, we take a ride on a felucca, a traditional wooden boat, tacking hard to catch the wind. As our captain scrambles barefoot to work the two sails, Mohamed points out the sites, like the lush Aswan Botanical Garden on Kitchener's Island and the 1899 Old Cataract Hotel (now managed by Sofitel), where the film adaptation of Agatha Christie's 1937 book Death on the Nile was shot and famous visitors to Aswan have always stayed, from the British archaeologist Howard Carter to Princess Diana. My favorite time is evening, when we return to the boat and recap the day over cold drinks and bottomless bowls of salty peanuts. Joe and I scan the river, looking from bank to bank as kids jump off docks into the water, yelling hello as we sail by, and fisherman putter home for the night. One evening, we watch three boys lead a dozen horses into the Nile for a swim as the setting sun turns everything to honey.

The temples we visit along our sail—including Kom Ombo, 30 miles north of Aswan, with its still intact painted ceilings, and the Karnak Temple complex in Luxor, whose enormous Temple of Amun-Ra is the largest religious building ever built—are all astonishing. But the temple to Isis at Philae might be the most moving. It's the site of an inscription dated to A.D. 394, thought to be the last example of ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics. A one-liner about the god Mandulis is the last known vestige of a writing system, and really a way of life, that came to an end here after three millennia. Mohamed points out where the Christians who took over the temple in the fifth century scratched out the faces of Egyptian deities. He shows us little crosses allegedly carved by the Knights of Malta during the Crusades and the graffiti left here by Napoleon's troops in 1799, as well as a memorial carved high up on an outside wall that names British soldiers who were killed in the Sudan in 1884. The entire temple complex is a tribute to modern engineering; in the late 1960s, fearing it would be totally submerged by flooding from the newly built Aswan High Dam, the Egyptian government and UNESCO moved the buildings, stone by stone, to the nearby island of Agilkia, where they stand today. Philae is a timeline of the last 2,000 years, and the layered history is as captivating as the structures themselves.

“We used to find bones and sell resin-bead necklaces to tourists,” Egyptologist Mohammed Abdelrehim tells me about growing up in Luxor in the 1970s, in a neighborhood near the Valley of the Kings. Mohammed, who is old friends with our previous guide Mohamed (“It's the ‘Mike’ of Egypt,” he jokes, then tells us we can call him Mohammed the Better), is taking Joe and me on a private tour of the ancient necropolis where royals who lived during the New Kingdom—a sort of Golden Age of Egyptian art and political stability that ran from a period spanning 1570 to 1070 B.C.—were buried in tombs sunk deep into the heart of the surrounding barren hillsides. Mohammed knows every nook and cranny of Luxor. With his bookish beard and safari hat, he looks the part of the trusted expert in an Indiana Jones–style flick about Egypt. As we drive past half-demolished houses on the edge of the site, he tells us that many of them have been purchased by the government so archaeological digs can continue; there are still tombs that have yet been found. When he was growing up, Mohammed says, it was common to lift a rug at someone's house and find a tunnel where the family had been digging for treasure.

We are outside the tomb of Amenhotep II, waiting for the guards to unseal the door. Mohammed has arranged an opening of this tomb, which, he tells us, was closed for 20 years and can now be seen only on private tours to prevent further deterioration; Joe and I might be the only guests to lay eyes on it for a year. We feel incredibly lucky that we're getting this rare access—and that we'll be able to take our time and really look around. Guides aren't allowed in the tombs, so Mohammed preps us on what to look for. It's a good thing he does, or I would have spent the entire time mesmerized by the tomb's ceiling, which is painted to look like the night sky, the deepest inky blue covered with little yellow stars. Later, we have King Tut's tomb to ourselves, and a guard motions us over so we can get up close and peer into King Tut's face, separated only by a plate of glass and a few inches. In the gorgeously painted tomb of Queen Nefertari, we recall Mohammed's words and locate her in one of the reliefs with an Eye of Horus tattoo (apparently the first tattoo captured in art). We spot the red edit lines, places where the master painter corrected the strokes of more junior artisans.

After we've returned to Cairo, Hala takes us to the recently discovered tomb of Wahtye in the Saqqara necropolis, about 15 miles southeast of the Giza pyramids, where, perhaps unfairly, we have a laugh at poor Wahtye's expense. Wahtye lived around 4,100 years ago, and while he was the priest to a king, he himself was not royalty. However, as Hala points out with a smirk, he really wanted us to know how important he was, as the huge and numerous images of him throughout the tomb attest.

The Temple of King Seti I in Abydos, outside the Valley of the Kings, built around 1279 B.C.

Numerous Egyptian kings over the span of roughly 2,000 years contributed to the sprawling Karnak Temple complex in Luxor.

Later, we're in the car, headed to the old Islamic neighborhood of Cairo to see the 14th-century Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan, when Hala says something to our driver in Arabic. Thirty minutes later, we pull over, and Hala tells Joe to come with her. We are at the lesser-used back entry to the Sphinx and the Giza Pyramids. Joe doesn't have the time to explore like I did, but he gets to experience them nonetheless—and I'm beyond thrilled that my promise to bring him back one day has been fulfilled only a week after I'd made it. I see Joe text friends a photo of himself with the pyramids in the background. Later, he posts it to Instagram, giving in to that most timeless human need—as did Wahtye, and the early Christians and Napoleon's troops—to let the world know, “I existed; I too was here.”

The highlights

Day 1: The scale of and ingenuity behind the Giza Pyramids blew my mind. Barring claustrophobia, definitely climb up inside the Great Pyramid to the King's Chamber, the burial vault that lies in the mathematical center of the 4,500-year-old structure.

Day 2: A feluca (traditional wooden boat) ride on the Nile at sunset–gliding past Old Cataract Hotel where the film adaptation of Agatha Christie's 1937 book Death on the Nile was shot and the lush Aswan Botanical Garden–was the perfect ending to the day.

Day 3: I couldn’t get over how, in the 1960s, the colossal temple to Isis at Philae (the site of the last example of ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics) was moved stone by stone to its current location so it wouldn’t be submerged when the Aswan High Dam was built. 

Day 5: There was truly nothing, nothing like having a private opening of King Amenhotep II’s tomb in the Valley of the Kings–being able to wander around and look at the sumptuously painted walls without another soul in sight.

How this trip came together

When I began plotting this trip with Rami Girgis , who's been with Abercrombie & Kent since 2005 and has been on Traveler's list of top travel specialists for several years running, I told him I'd be traveling with a 12-year-old, that we wanted to see absolutely everything, and that we'd have only a week to do it. Rami grew up and studied in Cairo and worked as an Egyptologist for years before moving to the United States. He has traveled on countless Egypt itineraries and returns to the country at least once a year to vet new stops and venues and meet with guides. After a flurry of calls and emails, we came up with a full-on (but not insane) itinerary that used one of A&K's classic Nile River journeys as a jumping-off point but left some room for riffing. Rami prearranged special openings of two tombs, and, after I asked to learn about daily life, replaced a visit to another ancient temple with a stop at Deir el-Medina in Luxor, the remains of a village where the artisans who worked on the royal tombs lived. I experienced the same flexibility during our actual trip, like when I asked if we could go by an essential-oils shop in Aswan or when my son asked a question about education; our guide called a teacher he knew, and we swung by the school 10 minutes later. Long, deep local relationships enabled Rami and our on-the-ground guides to be incredibly nimble, making us feel like we were on our own journey rather than a one-size-fits-all tour. 

A 10-day journey, with three days in Cairo and a four-night river cruise between Aswan and Luxor, starts at $7,595 and includes all accommodations, meals, fully guided sightseeing (including park and entrance fees), and airport transfers; abercrombiekent.com .  

A version of this article appeared in the January/February 2022 issue of Condé Nast Traveler.  Subscribe to the magazine   here .

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Top Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in Egypt 2024/2025

Top Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in Egypt. Below you will find 41 of the best tour operators and travel agencies in Egypt offering in total 357 tours and holidays through-out Egypt. Combined they have received 348 customer reviews and an average rating of 5 out of 5 stars. The top tour activities offered in Egypt are: Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history, Adventure and sport & Boat tours, water sports and marine wildlife.

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41 Tour Operators in Egypt with 348 Reviews

Travel Talk

• Address 18 Exhibition House Addison Bridge Place, London, England
• Response Rate 96%
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• Best-in-Class Top 5% of companies
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Truly Egypt Tours

• Address Gazirat Al Awameyah, Luxor, Luxor Governorate 85952, luxor, Egypt
• Response Rate 89%

Look at Egypt Tours

• Address 14 Dr.Hanem Al Remaya, Al Harm, Behind Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel, Giza,12561, Egypt, Cairo , Egypt
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G Adventures

• Address G Adventures Ltd, 60 Bastwick Street, London, England
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Exodus Travels

• Address Grange Mills, Weir Road, London, England
• Response Rate 85%

Timeless Tours

• Address 39 Hayton Crescent Tadworth, Surrey, England

Deluxe Travel Egypt

• Address 2, Beshr Khattab Str., Pyramids, Pyramids, Egypt
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Ramasside Tours Egypt

• Address 104 Hilton Green Plaza Next to flydubai. semoha Egypt., Alexandria, Egypt
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On The Go Tours

• Address 3 Shortlands, 4th floor, Office 19, Hammersmith, England
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• Address Hocapasa Mah. Tayahatun Sokak No:3 Sukran Han 3rd Floor, Sirkeci, Istanbul, Turkey
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Over Egypt Tours

• Address 5 Street 284, of Ellasilky St, Maadi, Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
• Response Rate 66%

Intrepid Travel

• Address 380 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, Australia

Luxury Gold

• Address 33 Kern Road, Toronto, Canada
• Response Rate 60%

• Address 2461 FM 778, Mineola, USA

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