Tourist attractions

Three Pyramids of Giza and Sphinx

Region: Giza

Cultural Heritage

World Heritage-listed monumental stone architecture from the Old Kingdom

Egyptian Museum of Antiquities

Region: Cairo

Museum

Housing approximately 120,000 artifacts including Tutankhamun's golden mask

Karnak Temple

Region: Luxor

Cultural Heritage

Amun temple complex featuring an impressive Great Hypostyle Hall

Valley of the Kings

Region: Luxor West Bank

Cultural Heritage

New Kingdom royal tombs including Tutankhamun's tomb

Abu Simbel Great Temple

Region: South of Aswan

Cultural Heritage

Rock-cut temple built by Ramesses II, relocated to preserve from dam flooding

Nile River Cruise

Region: Luxor to Aswan

Experience

Elegant boat journey viewing ancient monuments from the river

Siwa Oasis

Region: Western Desert

Nature

Temple of Amun ruins visited by Alexander the Great and salt lakes

Sharm El Sheikh

Region: Southern Sinai

Resort

Red Sea diving and luxury beach resorts

Wadi Al-Hitan (Whale Valley)

Region: Faiyum

Natural Heritage

World Heritage fossil valley with abundant whale ancestor fossils

Bibliotheca Alexandrina

Region: Alexandria

Modern Architecture

Landmark of knowledge inheriting the world's greatest ancient library

Suggested itineraries

Pyramids and Nile Ancient Monuments 7 Days

Duration (days): 7

Highlights: Giza, Saqqara, Luxor East and West Banks, Nile Cruise, Karnak

Classic route touring Old Kingdom monuments around Cairo, then flying to Luxor for a cruise southward to Aswan.

Red Sea Resort and Mount Sinai Ascent 5 Days

Duration (days): 5

Highlights: Sharm El Sheikh, Ras Mohammed National Park, St. Catherine's Monastery, Mount Sinai sunrise

Active plan combining diving with desert and holy site trekking.

Western Desert Oasis Traverse 10 Days

Duration (days): 10

Highlights: Bahariya, Black Desert/White Desert, Farafra, Dakhla, Siwa

Exploratory journey crossing the vast Libyan Desert by 4WD, enjoying starry camping and hot springs.

Travel tips

  • Visas available on arrival for US$25, though pre-applying for e-visa smooths entry
  • Summer daytime temperatures exceed 40°C, requiring hats and hydration
  • Interior monument photography often prohibited or requires additional fees
  • Haggling with vendors essential, start at less than half expected price
  • Public toilets often lack paper, carry pocket tissues
  • During Ramadan, restaurant hours shift to evening
  • Ride-share apps (Uber, Careem) in major cities offer safety and clear pricing
  • Tips are 10% at restaurants, guides and drivers 50-100 pounds per day
  • Tap water not drinkable, use bottled water
  • Women should wear modest clothing with minimal exposure
  • Prevent pickpocketing by keeping wallets in inner pockets and avoid showing large sums
  • Prepare small bills for change, exchange at banks or official money changers
  • Weekend is Friday and Saturday; government offices operate Sunday to Thursday
  • Camera drones require advance permission
  • Long-distance buses between major cities convenient at night but bring warm clothing