Imagine standing before the Great Pyramid of Giza as the morning sun casts golden shadows across ancient stones, knowing that you’re experiencing something truly extraordinary. This carefully planned journey transforms overwhelming choices into magical moments, ensuring every day brings new discoveries that will stay with you forever.

⚠️ Important Planning Note: Book domestic flights and Nile cruise at least 2 months in advance for best prices and availability. Peak season (October-April) requires even earlier booking.

✅ What Makes 10 Days Perfect:

• Adequate time for acclimatization to Egypt’s climate and culture
• Opportunity to visit 4 major destinations without rushing
• Flexibility to add optional activities or rest days
• Cost-effective balance between flights, accommodation, and experiences
• Sufficient time for meaningful cultural interactions

Morning (Arrival):

Land at Cairo International Airport and transfer to your hotel near the Giza Plateau. Most international flights from the UK arrive early morning, perfect for starting your adventure. Take time to settle in, enjoy a traditional Egyptian breakfast, and prepare for the afternoon’s activities.

Afternoon (2:00 PM – 6:00 PM):

Visit the iconic Great Pyramid of Giza and the mysterious Sphinx. Start with the Great Pyramid – the only surviving Wonder of the Ancient World. If you’re feeling adventurous and not claustrophobic, consider entering the pyramid’s burial chamber (additional ticket required, limited daily entries).

End your day watching the sunset from the panoramic viewpoint, where you can photograph all three pyramids together. The Sound and Light Show at the Sphinx (evening) is optional but highly recommended for first-time visitors.

💡 Insider Tip: Purchase your pyramid entry tickets online in advance through the official Egyptian Ministry of Tourism website to avoid disappointment. Only 300 people per day are allowed inside the Great Pyramid.

Morning (9:00 AM – 12:30 PM):

Explore the world-renowned Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square. Home to over 120,000 artifacts, including treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb, this museum requires at least 3-4 hours for a meaningful visit. Consider hiring a qualified guide to bring the ancient stories to life.

Afternoon (2:00 PM – 6:00 PM):

Wander through Islamic Cairo, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with medieval Islamic architecture. Visit the stunning Mosque of Ibn Tulun and the historic Khan el-Khalili Bazaar. This is your perfect opportunity to practice bargaining skills and purchase authentic souvenirs.

End your afternoon at a traditional ahwa (coffeehouse) sipping mint tea and watching local life unfold around you.

🍽️ Dining Recommendation: Try authentic Egyptian cuisine at Naguib Mahfouz Café in Khan el-Khalili. Order the mixed grill, koshari, or molokhia for a true taste of Egypt.

Morning (8:00 AM – 1:00 PM):

Take a day trip to Memphis (ancient capital of Egypt) and Saqqara to see the famous Step Pyramid of Djoser – Egypt’s oldest pyramid. These sites are less crowded than Giza but equally fascinating, offering insight into pyramid construction evolution.

The Tomb of Ti and Tomb of Kagemni at Saqqara contain some of Egypt’s best-preserved wall paintings and hieroglyphs.

Evening (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM):

Take the overnight sleeper train to Luxor or an evening flight (1 hour 30 minutes). The sleeper train is an adventure itself, offering comfortable cabins and dinner service while crossing the Egyptian countryside under starlight.

Early Morning (6:00 AM – Optional):

Take an optional hot air balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings at sunrise. This unforgettable experience offers aerial views of the temples and desert landscape that few visitors ever see. Book in advance and confirm weather conditions.

Morning (8:30 AM – 12:00 PM):

Explore the Valley of the Kings, burial site of New Kingdom pharaohs including Tutankhamun, Ramesses VI, and Seti I. Your ticket includes entry to three standard tombs – choose wisely as each offers unique features. The Tomb of Ramesses VI features stunning astronomical ceiling paintings.

Visit the impressive Temple of Hatshepsut, dedicated to Egypt’s most successful female pharaoh. The temple’s unique architecture is carved directly into the limestone cliffs.

Afternoon (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM):

Stop at the Colossi of Memnon – two massive stone statues that once guarded Amenhotep III’s mortuary temple. Continue to a traditional alabaster factory to see artisans at work and understand how ancient Egyptians carved these beautiful vessels.

End your day with a peaceful felucca ride on the Nile at sunset, watching daily life unfold along the riverbanks.

Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM):

Visit the magnificent Karnak Temple Complex – the largest religious building ever constructed. This vast temple complex took over 2,000 years to complete and features the famous Hypostyle Hall with 134 massive columns. The Sacred Lake and various chapels offer countless photo opportunities.

Don’t miss the sound and light show at Karnak in the evening – it brings the temple’s history to life with dramatic lighting and narration.

Afternoon (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM):

Explore Luxor Temple in the heart of the modern city. Connected to Karnak by an ancient avenue of sphinxes (recently restored), this temple is particularly beautiful as the afternoon light illuminates its sandstone columns and statues.

Stroll through Luxor’s corniche along the Nile, where horse-drawn carriages, feluccas, and river cruise ships create a picturesque scene.

📸 Photography Tip: The best light for photographing Luxor Temple is late afternoon (4-6 PM) when the golden hour illuminates the sandstone. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the massive columns.

Morning (9:00 AM – 1:00 PM):

Choose from several optional activities based on your interests:

• Tomb of Nefertari (additional fee) – considered the most beautiful tomb in Egypt
• Dendera Temple – day trip to see the famous Zodiac ceiling
• Luxor Museum – smaller but high-quality collection of artifacts
• Mummification Museum – fascinating insight into ancient preservation techniques

Afternoon/Evening:

Take the train to Aswan (3 hours) or fly (45 minutes). The train journey offers scenic views of the Nile and rural Egyptian life, while flying saves time for more activities in Aswan.

Morning (9:00 AM – 1:00 PM):

Visit Philae Temple on Agilkia Island, dedicated to the goddess Isis. This beautiful temple was relocated stone by stone when the High Dam was built. Take a motorboat to reach the island and enjoy the temple’s stunning setting surrounded by the Nile’s blue waters.

Explore the Aswan High Dam – a modern engineering feat that controls the Nile’s annual flood and generates electricity for Egypt. The visitor center provides excellent context about the dam’s construction and impact.

Afternoon (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM):

Take a traditional felucca sailing trip around Elephantine Island and the Botanical Garden (Kitchener’s Island). The peaceful sailing experience showcases Aswan’s natural beauty and offers glimpses of Nubian villages along the riverbank.

Visit a Nubian village to experience the unique culture, colorful houses, and warm hospitality of Nubia’s people. Enjoy traditional Nubian tea and learn about their customs and language.

🏛️ Cultural Experience: Many Nubian families welcome visitors into their homes for traditional meals. This authentic cultural exchange provides insight into modern Egyptian rural life.

Very Early Morning (3:30 AM departure):

Join the convoy to Abu Simbel (3.5-hour drive through the desert) or take a short flight (45 minutes). The early start ensures you arrive before the crowds and intense midday heat. The desert drive offers spectacular sunrise views over Lake Nasser.

Morning (8:00 AM – 11:00 AM):

Explore the magnificent Abu Simbel temples – Ramesses II’s ultimate monument to his power and devotion to his queen Nefertari. The Great Temple features four colossal seated statues of Ramesses II, each 20 meters tall. Inside, the temple extends 65 meters into the rock face.

Visit the smaller but equally beautiful Temple of Hathor, dedicated to Queen Nefertari. The temple’s façade uniquely shows the queen equal in size to the pharaoh – a rare honor in ancient Egypt.

Learn about the incredible UNESCO project that moved these temples block by block to save them from rising waters when the High Dam was built.

Afternoon:

Return to Aswan and relax at your hotel or explore Aswan’s colorful souq (market). The journey back provides time to process the amazing experience and enjoy the changing desert landscape.

🌅 Special Phenomenon: Twice yearly (February 22 and October 22), the sunrise aligns perfectly to illuminate the inner sanctuary of Abu Simbel’s Great Temple – a phenomenon planned by ancient architects.

Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM):

Visit the Unfinished Obelisk in the ancient granite quarries. This massive obelisk, if completed, would have been the largest ever erected in Egypt. The site provides fascinating insight into ancient Egyptian quarrying and construction techniques.

Explore the Tombs of the Nobles on the west bank – less crowded than Valley of the Kings but equally beautiful, showcasing Middle Kingdom burial practices.

Afternoon:

Take your flight back to Cairo (1 hour 30 minutes) or begin your journey home if departing directly from Aswan. Some travelers choose to extend their stay for a few days of relaxation at a Red Sea resort.

Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM):

Visit the new Grand Egyptian Museum (if open) or revisit the Egyptian Museum to see artifacts you may have missed on Day 2. The new museum, located near the Giza Pyramids, houses the complete Tutankhamun collection and offers state-of-the-art displays.

Alternatively, explore Coptic Cairo to see the Hanging Church and learn about Egypt’s Christian heritage, or visit the Citadel of Saladin with its impressive Mohamed Ali Mosque.

Afternoon:

Last-minute shopping at Khan el-Khalili for souvenirs, spices, and Egyptian cotton. Practice your bargaining skills and pick up traditional items like papyrus, perfume oils, or handcrafted jewelry.

Enjoy a farewell dinner featuring your favorite Egyptian dishes before heading to the airport for your departure flight.

Expense Category	Daily Cost	10-Day Total
Accommodation	£60-100	£600-1,000
Food & Drinks	£20-35	£200-350
Transportation	£15-25	£150-250
Attractions & Tours	£25-40	£250-400
Shopping & Extras	£10-20	£100-200
TOTAL (excluding flights)	£130-220	£1,300-2,200

Book Early for Best Prices

Reserve flights, hotels, and tours at least 2-3 months in advance, especially for peak season travel (October-April). Early booking can save 30-50% on costs.

Pack for the Climate

Bring lightweight, breathable clothing, sunscreen (SPF 50+), hat, and comfortable walking shoes. Temperatures can reach 40°C in summer and 25°C in winter.

Stay Hydrated Always

Carry water bottles everywhere and drink regularly. Egypt’s dry climate and heat can cause dehydration quickly. Avoid tap water – stick to bottled or filtered water.

Learn Basic Arabic Phrases

“Shukran” (thank you), “Min fadlik” (please), and “Ahlan wa sahlan” (welcome) will open doors and hearts. Egyptians appreciate visitors who make an effort.

Respect Local Customs

Dress modestly at religious sites, remove shoes when entering mosques, and ask permission before photographing people. Show respect for Ramadan if visiting during the holy month.

Carry Cash for Tips

Tipping (baksheesh) is part of Egyptian culture. Carry small Egyptian pounds for guides (50-100 EGP), drivers (20-30 EGP), and service staff (10-20 EGP).

Protect Your Valuables

Use hotel safes for passports and extra cash. Carry copies of important documents. Be aware of your surroundings in crowded markets and tourist areas.

Start Early Each Day

Begin sightseeing by 8:00 AM to avoid crowds and heat. Most major attractions open early, and morning light is perfect for photography of ancient monuments.

Get Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is essential for Egypt. Ensure coverage includes medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and adventure activities like hot air ballooning.

Download Offline Maps

Download Google Maps offline for Egypt before traveling. Internet can be unreliable in remote areas, and having offline maps ensures you never get lost.

Hire Qualified Guides

Licensed Egyptologists transform ancient sites from mere ruins into living history. Invest in quality guides at major attractions – the insights are invaluable and worth every penny.

Try Local Experiences

Beyond monuments, experience Egypt’s living culture: sip tea in traditional ahwas, ride feluccas at sunset, shop in local markets, and enjoy authentic street food like ful medames.

Bring a Good Camera

Egypt offers incredible photography opportunities. Bring extra batteries, memory cards, and consider a wide-angle lens for architectural shots. Some tombs require photography tickets.

Be Flexible with Plans

Allow flexibility in your itinerary for unexpected discoveries, weather changes, or simply to rest. Some of the best travel experiences happen when you’re open to spontaneity.

Prepare for Sensory Overload

Egypt can overwhelm first-time visitors with its intensity, sounds, and energy. Embrace the chaos, stay patient, and remember that this vibrant culture is part of the adventure.

❓ How many days do you need in Egypt?

Ten days is ideal for experiencing Egypt’s highlights without feeling rushed. This allows 3 days in Cairo/Giza, 3 days in Luxor, 3 days in Aswan/Abu Simbel, and 1 travel/flexibility day. Shorter trips (5-7 days) feel rushed, while longer trips (14+ days) can become overwhelming due to Egypt’s intensity.

❓ What’s the best time of year for a 10-day Egypt itinerary?

October through April offers the most comfortable weather with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F). December-February is peak tourist season with cooler temperatures but larger crowds. May and September are shoulder seasons with fewer tourists but increasing heat. Avoid June-August unless you can handle extreme heat (35-45°C).

❓ Is Egypt safe for UK tourists?

Egypt is generally safe for tourists, especially in popular destinations like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. The tourist police presence is strong at major attractions. Follow UK Foreign Office guidance, avoid political gatherings, and stick to established tourist areas. Most incidents involve minor scams rather than serious safety concerns.

❓ Do I need a visa for Egypt from the UK?

Yes, UK citizens need a visa for Egypt. You can obtain an e-visa online before travel (recommended) or purchase a visa on arrival at Egyptian airports. The tourist visa costs $25 USD and is valid for 30 days. Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity remaining.

❓ What vaccinations do I need for Egypt?

No special vaccinations are required for Egypt from the UK. However, ensure routine vaccinations (MMR, DPT, flu) are up to date. Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines are recommended for travelers planning to eat street food or visit rural areas. Consult your GP 4-6 weeks before travel for personalized advice.

❓ How much should I budget for a 10-day Egypt trip?

Budget travelers can expect £800-1,200, mid-range travelers £1,200-2,000, and luxury travelers £2,000-4,000+ per person (excluding international flights). This includes accommodation, food, domestic transport, attraction tickets, and activities. Budget more for shopping, optional experiences, and tips.

❓ Should I book tours in advance or locally?

Book major experiences in advance (Abu Simbel tours, hot air balloon rides, special tomb entries) but leave flexibility for local arrangements. Many day tours can be arranged through your hotel with 24-48 hours notice. Pre-booking ensures availability but reduces spontaneity.

❓ What’s the best way to travel between cities in Egypt?

Domestic flights are fastest (1-1.5 hours) but more expensive. Overnight trains offer an authentic experience and save accommodation costs. Day trains are comfortable for shorter journeys like Luxor to Aswan. Road travel can be arranged through tour companies but takes longer due to desert checkpoints.

❓ Can I drink tap water in Egypt?

Avoid tap water in Egypt. Stick to bottled water for drinking, teeth brushing, and making ice. Most hotels provide complimentary bottled water. Filtered water from reputable establishments is generally safe. Consider bringing water purification tablets for remote areas.

❓ What should women wear in Egypt?

Conservative dress is recommended throughout Egypt. Cover shoulders, chest, and legs to the ankle. Bring a scarf for mosque visits where head covering is required. Loose-fitting, breathable fabrics work best in the heat. Swimwear is fine at hotel pools and Red Sea beaches but cover up when leaving these areas.

❓ Is tipping really necessary in Egypt?

Yes, tipping (baksheesh) is deeply embedded in Egyptian culture and expected for most services. Guidelines: guides (50-100 EGP per day), drivers (20-30 EGP per day), hotel staff (10-20 EGP), restaurant service (10-15% if service charge not included). Carry small denominations for convenience.

❓ Can I use credit cards in Egypt?

Major hotels, restaurants, and shops accept credit cards, but cash is still king in Egypt. ATMs are widely available in tourist areas but may charge high fees. Notify your bank before traveling and carry both Egyptian pounds and US dollars or Euros for emergencies.

❓ What’s the photography policy at Egyptian monuments?

Photography is generally allowed at most sites, but some tombs and museum areas require additional photography tickets (50-300 EGP). Flash photography is prohibited inside tombs to preserve ancient paintings. Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in traditional or religious settings.

❓ Should I learn Arabic before visiting Egypt?

While not necessary, learning basic Arabic phrases enhances your experience significantly. Most tourism professionals speak English, but locals appreciate visitors who make an effort. Learn greetings, “please,” “thank you,” and basic numbers for shopping. Translation apps can help with more complex communication.

❓ What souvenirs should I buy in Egypt?

Popular authentic souvenirs include papyrus paintings, spices and teas, essential oils and perfumes, handcrafted jewelry, traditional clothing, alabaster items, and carpets. Avoid “ancient” artifacts (illegal to export) and mass-produced items claiming to be handmade. Shop at Khan el-Khalili in Cairo for the best selection.

🎫 Find the Best Flight Deals

🏨 Browse Egypt Hotels

🗺️ Book Guided Tours

📧 Get Your FREE Egypt Planning Checklist

Join 25,000+ travelers who’ve used our expert Egypt travel guides. Get exclusive tips, packing lists, and insider secrets delivered to your inbox!