14 Day Egypt Itinerary: Complete Grand Tour Guide for UK Travelers
Discover ancient wonders, cruise the Nile, and explore vibrant markets in this expertly crafted two-week adventure
Planning the perfect 14 day Egypt itinerary can feel overwhelming with so many incredible destinations competing for your attention. From the legendary pyramids of Giza to the stunning temples of Abu Simbel, Egypt offers a treasure trove of experiences that deserve more than a rushed week-long visit.
Imagine standing before the Great Pyramid as the golden Egyptian sun sets behind its ancient stones, then floating down the timeless Nile watching life unfold along its banks exactly as it has for millennia. This is the magic of a two week Egypt adventure.
What You'll Discover in This Complete Guide
🎯 Your 14-Day Egypt Adventure Highlights
📍 Destinations Covered
- Cairo & Giza Pyramids
- Luxor Valley of Kings
- Aswan & Abu Simbel
- Red Sea Relaxation
💰 Budget Range
- Budget: £1,200-£1,800
- Mid-range: £2,000-£3,200
- Luxury: £3,500-£6,000+
⚠️ Essential Tips
- Book Nile cruise early
- Pack sun protection
- Arrange visa in advance
- Carry cash for tips
About Your Egypt Travel Expert
Ahmed Hassan has been guiding UK travellers through Egypt for over 12 years, personally crafting hundreds of egypt 14 days itineraries. As a licensed Egyptologist and former museum curator, he knows exactly what makes a perfect two-week Egyptian adventure.
"Every Egypt journey should balance must-see monuments with authentic local experiences. This itinerary does exactly that."
Featured Image: Stunning panoramic view of Giza Pyramids at sunset with Nile cruise boat in foreground
ALT: "14 day egypt itinerary pyramids nile cruise sunset view perfect two week adventure"
📋 Complete Guide Contents
Why 14 Days is Perfect for Egypt
A full egypt itinerary 2 weeks allows you to experience Egypt's incredible diversity without feeling rushed. Unlike shorter trips that force you to choose between the pyramids or a Nile cruise, two weeks lets you savour both ancient monuments and modern Egyptian culture.
💡 Expert Insight: Most UK travellers who spend only 7-10 days in Egypt later regret not allocating more time. Two weeks allows for a more relaxed pace and deeper cultural immersion.
This comprehensive 14 day egypt itinerary covers Egypt's golden triangle (Cairo, Luxor, Aswan), includes a luxurious Nile cruise, ventures to the magnificent Abu Simbel temples, and concludes with relaxation on the Red Sea coast. You'll have time to explore local markets, enjoy traditional meals, and even take optional day trips to lesser-known gems.
Image: Map of Egypt showing 14-day route with highlighted destinations
ALT: "two week egypt travel map showing cairo luxor aswan red sea route itinerary"
Essential Planning for Your Two Week Egypt Adventure
Best Time to Visit Egypt
The optimal time for your egypt 14 days adventure is October through April when temperatures are more comfortable for sightseeing. December through February offers the most pleasant weather, though it's also peak season with higher prices and crowds.
Visa Requirements for UK Citizens
UK passport holders need a tourist visa for Egypt, which can be obtained online (e-visa) for £20 or on arrival for $25 USD. The e-visa is highly recommended as it saves time at the airport and guarantees entry.
⚠️ Important: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date. Apply for your e-visa at visa2egypt.gov.eg at least one week before travel.
Health and Safety Considerations
Egypt is generally safe for tourists, especially when following a structured two week egypt itinerary. The UK Foreign Office recommends standard travel precautions and staying with reputable tour operators in tourist areas.
💊 Health Essentials
- No mandatory vaccinations required
- Recommended: Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid
- Travel insurance essential
- Bring sun protection (SPF 50+)
- Pack stomach medication
🛡️ Safety Tips
- Stay in tourist areas after dark
- Use official tour guides only
- Keep copies of important documents
- Respect local customs and dress codes
- Register with UK embassy
Image: UK passport with Egypt e-visa page and travel insurance documents
ALT: "uk passport egypt visa requirements travel insurance planning two weeks"
Complete Day-by-Day 14-Day Egypt Itinerary
This carefully crafted full egypt itinerary 2 weeks maximises your time while ensuring a comfortable pace. Each day builds on the previous, creating a narrative journey through Egypt's incredible history and culture.
🏛️ Days 1-3: Cairo & Giza Discovery
Day 1: Arrival & Cairo Introduction
- Morning: Arrive Cairo International Airport, meet your guide
- Afternoon: Check into hotel, rest and acclimatise
- Evening: Welcome dinner with traditional Egyptian cuisine
- Overnight: Cairo (Fairmont Nile City or similar)
Day 2: Giza Pyramids & Sphinx
- Morning: Great Pyramid of Giza, Pyramid of Khafre & Menkaure
- Afternoon: Sphinx complex and Valley Temple
- Evening: Sound & Light show at the pyramids
- Optional: Enter the Great Pyramid (additional £15)
Day 3: Islamic Cairo & Egyptian Museum
- Morning: Egyptian Museum including Tutankhamun collection
- Afternoon: Citadel of Saladin and Mohammed Ali Mosque
- Evening: Khan el-Khalili bazaar for shopping and dinner
- Optional: Coptic Cairo (Old Cairo) extension
🚢 Days 4-7: Luxurious Nile Cruise
Day 4: Fly to Luxor, Board Cruise
- Morning: Flight to Luxor, meet Nile cruise crew
- Afternoon: Karnak Temple complex exploration
- Evening: Luxor Temple by night, sail towards Edfu
- Overnight: Nile cruise ship
Day 5: Valley of Kings & Queens
- Morning: Valley of the Kings (3 tombs included)
- Afternoon: Hatshepsut Temple and Colossi of Memnon
- Evening: Sail to Edfu, onboard entertainment
- Optional: Tutankhamun's tomb (additional £12)
Day 6: Edfu & Kom Ombo Temples
- Morning: Edfu Temple (Temple of Horus) by horse carriage
- Afternoon: Sail to Kom Ombo, temple visit
- Evening: Traditional Nubian show, sail to Aswan
- Highlight: Crocodile museum at Kom Ombo
Day 7: Arrive Aswan
- Morning: High Dam and Philae Temple
- Afternoon: Felucca sailing around Elephantine Island
- Evening: Nubian village visit and traditional dinner
- Overnight: Disembark cruise, hotel in Aswan
Image: Luxury Nile cruise ship sailing past ancient temples at sunset
ALT: "nile cruise luxor aswan egypt 14 days itinerary luxury ship temples"
🏺 Days 8-9: Aswan & Abu Simbel Marvel
Day 8: Abu Simbel Excursion
- Early Morning: 3:30 AM departure for Abu Simbel (3.5-hour drive)
- Morning: Explore Ramesses II and Nefertari temples
- Afternoon: Return to Aswan, rest at hotel
- Evening: Leisure time, optional souk shopping
- Tip: This is a long day but absolutely worth the effort
Day 9: Aswan Exploration
- Morning: Unfinished Obelisk and granite quarries
- Afternoon: Botanical Gardens on Kitchener Island
- Evening: Sunset felucca ride and farewell dinner
- Optional: Sound & Light show at Philae Temple
🏖️ Days 10-14: Red Sea Paradise
Day 10: Travel to Hurghada
- Morning: Flight from Aswan to Hurghada
- Afternoon: Check into beach resort, pool relaxation
- Evening: Beachfront dinner and early rest
- Overnight: Steigenberger Pure Lifestyle or similar
Days 11-13: Red Sea Adventures
- Activities: Snorkelling, diving, beach relaxation
- Excursions: Giftun Islands day trip, submarine tour
- Cultural: Hurghada marina and old town exploration
- Spa: Traditional hammam and massage treatments
- Evening: Sunset catamaran cruise (highly recommended)
Day 14: Departure
- Morning: Final beach relaxation and hotel checkout
- Afternoon: Transfer to Hurghada Airport
- Evening: Flight to UK via Cairo
- Memories: Two weeks of incredible Egyptian adventures
Complete Budget Breakdown for Two Week Egypt
Understanding the costs for your 14 day egypt itinerary helps you plan effectively and choose the right level of comfort. Here's a detailed breakdown across three budget categories, all prices in GBP for UK travellers.
💰 Money-Saving Tips for Your Egypt Adventure
🎯 Best Value Strategies
- Book flights 2-3 months in advance
- Travel in shoulder seasons (Oct-Nov, Mar-Apr)
- Join group tours for better rates
- Negotiate respectfully at markets
💳 Payment Tips
- Use cards for major purchases
- Carry cash for tips and markets
- Get Egyptian pounds at banks
- Budget £5-10 daily for tips
Image: Egyptian currency and calculator showing budget breakdown for two week trip
ALT: "egypt travel budget costs 14 days pounds currency planning guide"
Recommended Tours and Experiences
These carefully selected tours enhance your egypt 14 days experience with expert guides, skip-the-line access, and unique experiences you can't get independently. All recommendations are based on extensive UK traveller feedback.
🌟 Essential Egypt Grand Tour
Duration: 14 days • From: £2,399 per person
Includes: All accommodation, Nile cruise, domestic flights, expert guides, most meals
- Complete Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Red Sea itinerary
- 4-day luxury Nile cruise with all meals
- Abu Simbel excursion included
- Small group max 16 people
- UK tour manager throughout
👑 Luxury Egypt Experience
Duration: 14 days • From: £4,899 per person
Includes: 5-star hotels, luxury Nile cruise, business class flights, private guides
- Five-star accommodation throughout
- Private Egyptologist guides
- Luxury Oberoi Nile cruise
- Helicopter pyramid tour
- VIP temple access
🎒 Budget Egypt Explorer
Duration: 14 days • From: £1,499 per person
Includes: 3-star hotels, Nile cruise, group tours, some meals, internal transport
- Comfortable 3-star accommodation
- Standard Nile cruise experience
- Group tours with qualified guides
- Maximum 25 people per group
- Great value for money
🎯 Why Book a Tour vs Independent Travel?
✅ Tour Benefits
- Expert historical context
- Skip-the-line access
- Safety and security
- Stress-free logistics
🆚 Independent Travel
- More flexibility
- Potentially cheaper
- Personal pace
- Cultural immersion
Expert Tips for Your Two Week Egypt Adventure
These insider tips come from years of guiding UK travellers through two week egypt adventures. Following this advice will enhance your experience and help you avoid common pitfalls.
Pack Smart for the Climate
Bring lightweight, breathable clothes for hot days and a light jacket for air-conditioned spaces. Include comfortable walking shoes, sun hat, and high SPF sunscreen. A small daypack is essential for temple visits.
Master the Art of Tipping
Tipping (baksheesh) is expected in Egypt. Budget £3-5 daily for guides, £2-3 for drivers, £1-2 for hotel staff. Keep small notes handy. Cruise staff expect £3-5 per day total.
Stay Hydrated and Healthy
Drink bottled water exclusively and avoid ice in drinks. Eat at reputable restaurants and hotels. Bring anti-diarrheal medication just in case. Consume plenty of fluids - the desert climate is very dehydrating.
Respect Local Culture
Dress modestly especially at religious sites. Cover shoulders and knees. Remove shoes when entering mosques. Photography inside tombs often requires extra payment. Be respectful during prayer times.
Book Nile Cruise Early
The best Nile cruises fill up months in advance, especially for peak season. Book your cruise before finalising other arrangements. Luxury boats offer better service, food, and smaller crowds.
Negotiate Smartly in Markets
Start at 25% of the asking price and negotiate with a smile. Be prepared to walk away - this often gets the best price. Compare prices at multiple stalls before buying. Quality varies greatly.
Plan Temple Visits Strategically
Visit outdoor sites early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat. Indoor tombs are cooler and perfect for midday exploration. Some sites have photography fees - decide beforehand if it's worth it.
Secure Your Valuables
Use hotel safes for passports and excess cash. Carry a money belt for daily expenses. Make copies of important documents. Consider travel insurance that covers electronics and medical emergencies.
Learn Basic Arabic Phrases
Learn "Shukran" (thank you), "Mish mumkin" (not possible), and "Kam da?" (how much?). Egyptians appreciate the effort and often respond more warmly. Download translation apps for complex conversations.
Embrace the Egyptian Pace
Egypt operates on "Egyptian time" - things move slower than in the UK. Build flexibility into your itinerary. Enjoy mint tea while waiting. The relaxed pace becomes part of the charm of your 14 day egypt itinerary.
Image: British tourist enjoying traditional mint tea with Egyptian guide at temple
ALT: "uk traveller egypt guide tips cultural experience two week adventure"
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from the experiences of thousands of UK travellers who've completed their egypt 14 days adventure. Avoiding these common mistakes will save you time, money, and frustration during your trip.
⚠️ Don't Underestimate the Heat
The Mistake: Many UK travellers underestimate Egypt's intense heat and sun, leading to dehydration and exhaustion by day three.
The Solution: Start hydrating days before travel, bring high SPF sunscreen, and plan indoor activities during midday (11 AM - 3 PM).
💰 Don't Fall for Tourist Scams
The Mistake: Paying inflated prices for "special" tours, papyrus, or "ancient" artefacts sold by persistent street vendors near major sites.
The Solution: Book tours through your hotel or reputable operators. Shop at fixed-price government stores for authentic souvenirs.
🏛️ Don't Rush the Major Sites
The Mistake: Trying to see the Pyramids, Egyptian Museum, and Citadel all in one day, resulting in exhaustion and superficial experiences.
The Solution: Dedicate proper time to each major site. The Pyramids alone deserve a full day for a meaningful experience.
🍽️ Don't Ignore Food Safety
The Mistake: Eating street food without checking vendor hygiene or drinking tap water, leading to "Cairo belly" that ruins several days.
The Solution: Stick to bottled water, eat at established restaurants, and avoid raw vegetables and fruits you can't peel yourself.
📱 Don't Forget to Inform Your Bank
The Mistake: Having your cards blocked due to unusual overseas activity, leaving you stranded without access to funds.
The Solution: Notify your bank of travel dates and destinations. Bring multiple cards and some cash as backup.
⏰ Don't Book the First Nile Cruise You See
The Mistake: Choosing a budget cruise that's overcrowded, poorly maintained, or lacks proper guides, diminishing this highlight of your two week egypt trip.
The Solution: Research cruise lines thoroughly, read recent reviews, and book with reputable operators even if it costs slightly more.
👕 Don't Pack Inappropriately
The Mistake: Bringing only shorts and tank tops, then being denied entry to mosques and feeling uncomfortable in conservative areas.
The Solution: Pack modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Lightweight pants and long-sleeved shirts are perfect for temple visits.
💡 Pro Tip: Learn from Others' Experiences
Join UK Egypt travel Facebook groups before your trip. Recent travellers share real-time advice about current conditions, recommended guides, and sites to prioritise in your 14 day egypt itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
These are the most common questions UK travellers ask about planning their full egypt itinerary 2 weeks. The answers come from extensive experience guiding British tourists through Egypt.
🌡️ What's the best time of year for a 14-day Egypt trip?
October through April offers the most comfortable weather for a two week egypt adventure. December to February is peak season with perfect temperatures but higher prices and crowds. October-November and March-April provide excellent weather with better value and fewer tourists.
💰 How much should I budget for 14 days in Egypt?
Budget £1,200-1,800 for basic comfort, £2,000-3,200 for mid-range luxury, or £3,500+ for premium experiences. This includes flights, accommodation, tours, meals, and internal transport. Factor in an additional £300-500 for shopping, optional excursions, and tips.
🛂 Do UK citizens need a visa for Egypt?
Yes, UK passport holders need a tourist visa. You can get an e-visa online for £20 (recommended) or purchase one on arrival for $25 USD. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date. Apply for e-visas at least one week before travel.
🏺 Is it safe for UK tourists to visit Egypt?
Egypt is generally safe for tourists, especially when following organized itineraries and staying in tourist areas. The UK Foreign Office provides current travel advice. Use reputable tour operators, stay in tourist zones after dark, and follow your guide's recommendations for a safe egypt 14 days experience.
🚢 Should I book a Nile cruise in advance?
Absolutely yes, especially for travel during peak season (December-February). The best Nile cruises fill up months in advance. Booking early also secures better prices and ensures you get the specific ship and cabin category you want for this highlight of your two-week adventure.
🎒 What should I pack for a two-week Egypt trip?
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing that covers shoulders and knees for temple visits. Essential items include high SPF sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, sun hat, light jacket for air conditioning, daypack, and any prescription medications. Bring modest clothing for religious sites.
💊 Do I need any vaccinations for Egypt?
No mandatory vaccinations are required for UK travellers. However, the NHS recommends being up-to-date with routine vaccines and considering Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Typhoid vaccines. Consult your GP 4-6 weeks before travel. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential.
📱 Will my UK mobile phone work in Egypt?
Most UK phones work in Egypt, but roaming charges can be expensive. Consider purchasing a local SIM card or international roaming package. WiFi is widely available in hotels, restaurants, and tourist sites. Download offline maps and translation apps before travelling.
🏛️ Can I visit the interior of the Great Pyramid?
Yes, but it requires a separate ticket (around £15) and has limited daily entries. The interior is hot, cramped, and involves climbing through narrow passages. Many visitors find the exterior impressive enough, but it's worth it if you're fascinated by ancient engineering. Book in advance during peak season.
🍽️ What's the food like and is it safe to eat?
Egyptian cuisine is delicious and diverse, featuring rice, bread, grilled meats, and fresh vegetables. Stick to bottled water and reputable restaurants during your 14 day egypt itinerary. Hotel restaurants and established eateries are generally safe. Avoid street food, raw vegetables, and ice in drinks to prevent stomach issues.
💵 Should I bring cash or cards?
Bring both. Major hotels and restaurants accept cards, but you'll need cash for markets, tips, and small vendors. Get Egyptian pounds from banks or official exchange points for the best rates. Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocking. Budget around £5-10 daily for tips.
🗣️ Do I need to learn Arabic?
Not necessary, as most tourism professionals speak English. However, learning basic phrases like "Shukran" (thank you) and "Salam" (hello) is appreciated by locals. Download translation apps for complex situations. Your guides will handle all necessary communication during tours.
✈️ What's the best flight route from the UK to Egypt?
Direct flights from London to Cairo take about 5 hours with EgyptAir or British Airways. Alternative routes via Istanbul (Turkish Airlines) or Dubai (Emirates) offer good connections. Book flights 2-3 months in advance for the best prices. Consider flying into Cairo and out of Hurghada for your full egypt itinerary 2 weeks.
🏨 What type of accommodation should I choose?
Choose based on your budget and comfort preferences. Budget travellers can find clean 3-star hotels for £20-40 per night. Mid-range hotels (£40-80) offer better locations and amenities. Luxury options (£100+) provide premium service and locations. For the Nile cruise portion, even basic ships provide a unique experience.
🎭 What cultural experiences shouldn't I miss?
Don't miss a traditional Egyptian dinner with belly dancing, shopping in Khan el-Khalili bazaar, a felucca ride on the Nile at sunset, visiting a Nubian village, and experiencing a Sound & Light show at the pyramids. These cultural elements make your two week egypt adventure truly memorable beyond just the ancient sites.
Image: Collage of UK travellers enjoying various Egypt experiences - pyramid visit, Nile cruise, market shopping
ALT: "uk tourists egypt experiences two weeks itinerary pyramids cruise markets culture"
Your Perfect Two Week Egypt Adventure Awaits
This comprehensive 14 day egypt itinerary balances must-see ancient wonders with relaxation and cultural immersion, creating the perfect introduction to Egypt for UK travellers. From the iconic pyramids of Giza to the tranquil waters of the Red Sea, you'll experience the full spectrum of what makes Egypt truly extraordinary.
🎯 Key Takeaways for Your Egypt Adventure
Perfect Timing
14 days allows for a relaxed pace without rushing between destinations
Great Value
Egypt offers incredible experiences at prices that suit every budget level
Rich Culture
Experience 5,000 years of history alongside vibrant modern Egyptian culture
Remember that the best egypt 14 days experience comes from balancing must-see sites with spontaneous discoveries. Allow time for wandering through local markets, enjoying traditional meals, and connecting with the incredibly welcoming Egyptian people who make every visitor feel like family.
Start Planning Your Egyptian Adventure Today
Ready to Experience the Magic of Egypt?
Don't let this incredible two week egypt adventure remain just a dream. Our expert team is ready to help you create the perfect itinerary tailored to your interests and budget.
🎁 Book before March 31st and receive a complimentary sunset felucca ride and traditional Egyptian dinner (worth £75 per person)
Your 14 day egypt itinerary will create memories that last a lifetime. From standing in awe before the Great Pyramid to sailing peacefully down the eternal Nile, Egypt offers experiences that transform how you see the ancient world and your place in its continuing story.

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