Want an on-the-ground playbook that skips tourist gloss and gives you clear, step-by-step guidance for every day? This guide shows you where to go, when to move, and what to pack so your trip feels smooth and true. It’s written from months spent in markets, taxis, trains, and Nile-side cafés—real conditions, not desk research. Expect double security checks at airports and at some major sites, bottled water as a must, and outlets that run on 220V/50Hz with two round pins (Type C/F). Tourist police patrol key attractions, and for long distances, domestic flights are often the fastest option between cities.
Independent travel can be messy—public information is limited, drivers negotiate hard, and touting is common near headline spots. You’ll find practical bargaining lines, tipping norms, and photo etiquette here so you can move with confidence and respect.
Practical edge: I’ll flag when a licensed guide or Egypt Tours by Locals saves hours (permits, timing, complex transfers) and when DIY makes more sense. This guide blends field-tested tactics with local context so every day counts—and your plans stay flexible.
Key Takeaways
- Plan for multi-layer airport screening and keep a sealed bottle of water after the final scan.
- Use domestic flights for long legs; driving norms can feel loose compared to the US/EU.
- Bargain kindly and firmly—touts are persistent but manageable with a polite “la shukran.”
- Carry the right adapters (Type C/F) and a compact charger—most sockets are 220V.
- Keep printed hotel details and ID handy for checkpoints; download offline maps before you go.
- Consider a licensed guide for complex logistics, remote sites, or tight schedules.
Start Here: Your Intent and What “Like a Local” Really Means in Egypt
Intent shapes everything when you arrive in Egypt. Decide what you value most—architecture, food, photography, or quiet neighborhood walks. That focus will guide your daily choices and help you see beyond surface-level sightseeing.
“Like a local” means moving with intention—dressing modestly, bargaining patiently, and respecting rules at mosques and historical sites. Reviewing Egyptian Culture and Customs helps smooth interactions and prevents misunderstandings. Infrastructure and public info can feel limited, so a private guide or driver often cuts friction and saves precious time.
- Balance your comfort: some days a guide brings depth and efficiency, while other days slow wandering uncovers hidden corners.
- Expect direct approaches near markets and major sights—reply firmly, politely, and walk on if uninterested.
- Always carry ID, accept checkpoints as normal, and keep your plans flexible for last-minute changes.
- Learn a few Arabic greetings—phrases like “salaam alaikum” and “shukran” spark smiles and goodwill.
Build pauses into your day: tea breaks in a courtyard, a Nile-side sunset, or quiet mosque courtyards reveal the real pace of Egyptian life. When you want context, Egypt Tours by Locals can match you with guides who live the neighborhoods you’re exploring.
Even as a visitor, choose family-run guesthouses, neighborhood cafés, and local transport where possible. Note your personal non-negotiables—dietary needs, pace, comfort level—and plan each day around them. That’s what makes travel in Egypt feel genuine, grounded, and memorable.
Best Time to Visit and How Many Days to Plan
Plan your trip so heat and crowds never dictate your day. Start with the basics—figuring out when is the Best Time to visit Egypt. The cooler months, October through April, are ideal for sightseeing. Expect brisk mornings in Cairo and Luxor’s West Bank in winter. In contrast, summer (June–August) brings intense heat (85–105°F / 29–40°C), with limited outdoor windows at dawn and late afternoon.
- Balanced first trip (8–12 days): Plan for Cairo (3 days), Luxor (3 days), Aswan (2–3 days) and an optional side trip to Abu Simbel.
- Short on time (5–6 days): Focus on one cluster: Cairo + Giza + Saqqara, or Luxor + Aswan with a quick domestic flight from Cairo.
- Daily rhythm: One major site in the morning (Karnak, Giza Plateau, Valley of the Kings) and a lighter visit around sunset.
- Practical planning: Book hotels with early breakfasts, shaded courtyards, and flexible check-in. Prices spike at holidays, so reserve top-location rooms early if you want Nile or city views.
- Travel between cities: Domestic flights save hours, but factor in airport security. Build buffer days to manage heat, fatigue, and inevitable information overload.
Stay flexible: adjust plans for seasonality—shorter outdoor blocks in summer, brisker mornings in winter. Aim for at least one calm afternoon every few days for rest. This balance helps you keep energy and truly enjoy each site instead of rushing through them.
Visas, Airport Security, and Entry Tips
Arriving in Cairo or Luxor airport can feel overwhelming, but a few habits make entry smoother. One of the first questions most travelers ask is Do I need a Visa to visit Egypt? Requirements vary by nationality, so check official updates before booking flights. Expect immigration lines, baggage screening, and customs—plus a second security check at the departure gates. Keep your passport, printed tickets, and hotel confirmation handy at all times.
Rules differ between checkpoints. Liquids may pass at one stage but be blocked at another. My best practice: bring a refillable bottle and buy sealed water after the final scan.
- Leave drones at home—they are confiscated without return.
- Airport Wi-Fi often requires SMS verification. Without a local SIM, download maps and hotel details in advance.
- Carry the name and address of your first-night hotel printed in English and Arabic—staff or officers may ask.
- Keep small bills ready if you’d like porter help. Tipping is common, but you can decline politely if unnecessary.
Smart tip: Pack essential medications, chargers, and a spare outfit in your carry-on. Photograph your passport and visa page, storing copies securely offline. If instructions seem unclear, ask for written confirmation or look for posted signs—calm, polite questions get faster results.
Safety, Scams, and Street Smarts for Visiting Egypt
A calm, practiced response often ends awkward encounters faster than money. Many travelers wonder How safe is it to travel to Egypt. Overall, it’s safe, but preparation matters. Tourist police are visible at major attractions, and reporting scams is straightforward if you keep clear notes.
Quick safety rules I follow:
- Walk with purpose. Avoid prolonged eye contact, say “la shukran” (no thank you), and keep moving if uninterested in shopping or rides.
- Expect unsolicited “help” that may end with a tip request. Set boundaries with a polite “No guide today, thank you.”
- Haggle with humor. Counter at 30–50% of the first price, and don’t hesitate to smile and walk away.
- If someone touches your bag or camera without permission, calmly assert ownership and step away.
- Buy tickets only at official windows; avoid back-door offers that risk fines.
Knowing the common Tourist Scams in Egypt helps you spot and avoid them before they escalate. Men traveling with women should walk side-by-side, using confident body language. For complex itineraries, hiring a vetted local-first guide through Egypt Private Tours reduces hassle and supports ethical tourism practices.
Final tip: Keep tips small and intentional. Protect your time, stay firm with persistent sellers, and conserve energy for Egypt’s rich culture and landmarks rather than street negotiations.
Money, Prices, and Tipping Etiquette Without Overpaying
Money habits can make or break your travel rhythm in Egypt—knowing when to use cash, when to swipe a card, and how much to tip keeps your day smooth. The official currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Credit cards work at many mid-to-upscale hotels and restaurants, but street vendors, taxis, and smaller sites almost always prefer cash.
Quick money rules I live by:
- Carry small bills for tips and street purchases; save larger notes for entrances, meals, and emergencies.
- Confirm prices upfront for taxis, camel rides, and short services. Always clarify whether the price is “per person” or total.
- Withdraw from ATMs inside banks or hotels for better security and fairer rates. Keep a backup card and a small USD or EUR stash.
Expect inflated prices near tourist corridors. Walk one block away for fairer stalls and more authentic experiences. Decline add-ons you didn’t request—there’s no need to tip for unsolicited “extras.” Understanding local Tipping Etiquette in Egypt prevents awkward moments and shows respect.
Restaurant | 10% (15% upscale) | Round up for excellent service |
Restroom attendant | ~5 EGP | A polite gesture, not mandatory |
Guide / driver | Varies per person, per day | Agree in advance; group sharing is common |
One more smart tip: Stick to posted entrance fees at official sites and avoid unofficial “fast-track” offers. For transparent pricing and reliable logistics, I sometimes book through Egypt Tours by Locals—their clear policies mean no surprises at the end of the day.
What to Wear and Cultural Etiquette for Men and Women
Light layers and modest clothing are your best travel tools in Egypt—they help with heat, show respect in religious spaces, and make city life smoother. Our full guide on What to Wear in Egypt covers every season, but here are essentials.
Women: Carry a scarf for mosque entry and windy markets. Many mosques require hair covering—a light wrap works well.
Men: Long shorts or light trousers are safer in conservative neighborhoods. Closed-toe shoes or sturdy sandals are practical for uneven streets and dusty sites.
- Cover shoulders and knees in urban areas to avoid unwanted attention.
- Pack a sun hat and modest UV layers for mid-day walking—sunwear is widely accepted.
- Ask permission before photographing people; a quick “shukran” (thank you) goes far.
- Skip flashy jewelry and big logos—neutral tones blend in better.
- Bring a laundry kit; quick-dry fabrics keep clothes fresh on long trips.
Mosque etiquette: Always remove shoes, keep voices low, and avoid standing in prayer paths. Observing before moving shows respect and is appreciated by worshippers.
Scarf | Required for mosque entry and handy in markets | Choose light cotton; folds into a pocket |
Footwear | Protects on uneven stones and dusty streets | Closed-toe shoes or sturdy sandals with grip |
Neutral clothing | Reduces attention in conservative areas | Earth tones and pastels work well |
Laundry kit | Keeps clothes fresh between longer stays | Small soap bar + travel line |
Final note: Offering a small tip to mosque custodians is optional. Only do so if they provide genuine assistance—like guiding you between prayer areas or offering covering garments.
Transportation: Trains, Domestic Flights, Drivers, and Getting Around Each City
Transport shapes the rhythm of your trip—choose wisely and you’ll save hours for real exploration. Egypt is large, and distances between cities can be vast. Matching the right mode of travel to each leg is key.
For long distances, domestic flights are my top choice. They save time and energy, but always allow for extra security checks. Book morning flights to leave afternoons free for sightseeing.
Intercity trains connect Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan along the Nile corridor. Trains can be crowded or outdated on secondary routes, so book early and arrive with buffer time. For overnight routes, choose a sleeper for comfort and safety.
Within cities, combine walking with taxis or Cairo’s metro for short hops. Always agree on taxi fares before riding and confirm if the quoted price is “per car” or “per person.” For travelers who prefer structured planning, a pre-arranged Egypt Trip Itinerary simplifies logistics and reduces stress.
- Avoid self-driving—traffic rules are loose, lanes are fluid, and checkpoints are frequent.
- Hire a licensed driver for complex days covering multiple sites—it saves time and hassle.
- Ask your hotel to write destinations in Arabic for taxi or train staff—it prevents confusion.
- In Luxor, coordinate East–West Bank crossings with bridge or ferry schedules to avoid delays.
Domestic flight | Best for long distances | Book morning flights; plan for double security |
Intercity train | Affordable travel between major cities | Reserve in advance; arrive early at stations |
Metro / Taxi | Best for short city hops | Confirm price before riding; metro is faster for central routes |
Licensed driver | Best for full-day multi-site tours | Agree on a clear day rate and itinerary |
Pro tip: Transport isn’t just about movement—it’s about saving energy. The right choice frees up hours for cultural depth, quiet moments, and genuine local encounters.
How to Travel Egypt Like a Local
Mornings set your rhythm—arrive early to beat both heat and crowds. Sunrise is when vendors set up stalls, the air is cool, and conversations flow more naturally. By noon, take a deliberate break: sip tea, rest in your hotel courtyard, or step into a shaded café. Resume exploring near sunset, when the streets cool and light softens for photos.
- Eat where locals queue: Busy food counters mean fresh turnover. Start small with one plate, then order more of what you like. For inspiration, see our guide to Popular Egyptian Foods.
- Step one block off tourist streets—prices drop, and genuine conversations start.
- Time major sites for early morning or late afternoon; use shaded walks or museums during peak sun hours.
- Carry small bills for snacks and rides; keep larger notes hidden for later.
- Haggle with kindness. Smile, name your price, and walk away if it doesn’t match.
- Alternate a big day with a light one—this prevents burnout and sharpens your experience.
- Try a short guided neighborhood walk, then return solo the next day for deeper exploration.
- Keep Arabic phrases ready on your phone—locals notice the effort and respond warmly.
Insider tip: For tailored introductions to artisans, hidden tea houses, and family-owned shops, book a custom walking experience through Egypt Tours by Locals. It’s a low-friction way to gain context while still keeping independence in your travel style.
Cairo Essentials: Beyond the Pyramids, Into the City
Cairo hums with a rhythm of its own—a mix of historic mosques, rooftop views, and bustling markets that reward curiosity. To make the most of your time, cluster attractions by neighborhood. Start with historic mosques in the old city, enjoy a rooftop café at golden hour, and close with a night market for food and photos. For a curated list of highlights, explore our guide on Things to See and Do in Cairo.
Many mosques welcome visitors for free—just cover your shoulders and knees, and carry a scarf for head coverings when needed. Always ask before photographing, and avoid blocking prayer paths.
Stroll Cairo’s heritage streets for carved doors, mashrabiya windows, and lantern shops. Start conversations with a simple greeting—small courtesies open doors to friendlier exchanges. No trip is complete without diving into the famous Khan El Khalili Bazaar, where colors, scents, and sounds collide in a sensory experience.
- Snack like a local: fresh baladi bread, falafel, or sugarcane juice from busy stalls.
- Book accommodation near the old city if early morning walks and easy market access are a priority.
- Factor in Cairo traffic—crossing the city takes time. Build in buffers between activities.
- To avoid aggressive selling, browse with hands behind your back and minimize eye contact.
Use prayer times as natural pauses—streets quiet down and courtyards become calm. Spend afternoons in a museum or shaded park, then return outside near sunset for softer light and minaret silhouettes.
Photography tip: Always ask before taking portraits, thank your subjects, and never block doorways or prayer routes. Respect builds smoother interactions and better images.
Focus | Why it matters | Best time | Quick tip |
Old mosques | Cultural depth & quiet courtyards | Morning | Bring scarf, keep voice low |
Rooftop viewpoints | City panoramas & golden-hour light | Sunset | Reserve a table with a view |
Evening markets | Food & lively street life | After dusk | Pick stalls with steady turnover |
Heritage streets | Architectural details & photos | Early morning best | Greet vendors first |
Pyramids of Giza Fieldcraft: Tickets, Camels, and Photos
Arrive at opening—this gives you breathing space, fewer crowds, and time for the best light. Security is strict, with bag scans before the main gate, and touts often hover near entrances. Stay calm, walk with purpose, and stick to your plan.
Always buy tickets at official windows. Confirm which pyramid interiors are open that day, as schedules change. Some areas also require special photo permits—check posted prices before entering to avoid surprises.
Camel rides are iconic but require clarity: agree on the total price and ride duration before mounting. State firmly that no extras will be added. This single step prevents awkward disputes later. If you want more context, check out our guide with Fun Facts About the Pyramids.
- Best light: Early morning or late afternoon. Midday sun flattens detail.
- Top photo frames: Desert-edge panoramas, the classic Sphinx alignment, and side angles near quieter dunes.
- Keep cameras secure and avoid blocking walkways—let everyone enjoy the view.
A patient driver can shuttle you between entrances and viewpoints without wasting energy. Skip unofficial guides inside—most signage is clear enough, and moving at your own pace keeps the visit more rewarding.
Tickets | Protects against scams | Buy at official window, keep receipt |
Camel rides | Supports locals, offers iconic photos | Agree total price upfront, no extras |
Photos | Some zones need permits | Check posted rules, drones banned |
End your visit with stillness—find a quiet edge of the plateau and take it in. Beyond the photos, it’s often the silence and scale that stay with travelers long after they’ve left.
Luxor Like a Pro: Karnak, Valley of the Kings, and Where to Save
Luxor is an open-air museum—its temples and tombs reward early mornings and thoughtful pacing. Arrive at Karnak Temple at opening to see its colossal columns in soft light, or visit around noon in cooler months when tours pause for lunch. For a deeper dive into highlights, see our guide on Things to Do in Luxor.
At the Valley of the Kings, the base ticket includes three tombs. Choose carefully: some are richly painted while others are less preserved. Ticket offices close around 3:45 p.m., so confirm hours before heading across the Nile.
Respect the art—avoid touching walls, skip flash photography, and keep space in narrow corridors. Some tombs require photo passes; decline “helpers” expecting tips and take your own shots.
- Save money: Admire certain temples—like Luxor Temple—from the outside at golden hour, when the light is spectacular.
- Use public ferries for East/West Bank crossings, or hire a private boat for flexible timing.
- Bring a hat and plenty of water—shade is scarce between monuments.
- If sites are crowded, pivot to nobles’ tombs or workers’ villages—often quieter with vivid details.
Karnak Temple | World’s largest temple complex | Arrive early or at noon in off-season | Morning / Midday |
Valley of the Kings | Preserved tombs with vivid art | Pick three; check office closing times | Morning / Early afternoon |
Luxor Temple | Stunning glow at night | Admire from outside to save cost | Golden hour / Evening |
Pro tip: Invest in small guided tours for context, but keep time for quiet admiration. Luxor’s magic is often in its still moments as much as its grand monuments.
Aswan and the Nile: Feluccas, Temples, and Real Markets
Aswan moves at the pace of the river—mornings begin with boats setting sail and markets filling with fresh bread and spices. It’s a calmer city than Cairo or Luxor, offering both cultural treasures and authentic daily life. To deepen your experience, explore the History of the Nile River and how it shaped Egypt’s identity.
Sail a felucca at sunset—you’ll drift past palm islands under glowing skies. Pair the view with a Nubian lunch of beans, fish, and fresh bread for a true taste of the south.
Nearby, the Philae Temple is best seen on the first morning boat, before groups arrive and the heat rises. Kom Ombo offers crocodile mummies and riverbank cafés worth an afternoon stop.
For raw energy, visit the Dawar Camel Market on Tuesday or Wednesday morning. Expect dust, bargaining, and vivid photo opportunities. Skip cruise-ship souvenir stalls and head to everyday markets instead—here you’ll find locals buying spices, teas, and bread at fair prices.
- Ask permission before taking photos, especially in markets or near animals.
- Use late afternoons for island walks—longer daylight gives space to wander.
- Short guided heritage tours provide context if you want more than surface-level sightseeing.
- Pair Aswan with Luxor for a full Nile narrative—two cities, one river story.
Felucca Sail | Sunset or morning | Peaceful rhythm & perfect light | Bring water & a scarf for wind |
Dawar Camel Market | Tue–Wed morning | Authentic trading scenes | Wear sturdy shoes, move calmly |
Kom Ombo | Morning / Early afternoon | Crocodile mummies & riverside views | Combine with a riverside tea break |
Pro tip: Aswan’s charm lies in slowing down. Linger in teahouses, watch feluccas glide by, and let the city’s slower rhythm reset your pace.
Food, Water, and Health: Eat Well, Stay Well
Your health is your energy source—eating wisely and practicing simple hygiene can make the difference between a trip of joy and one cut short. Egypt’s cuisine is rich and flavorful, but knowing what (and how) to eat keeps you safe and energized.
Golden rule: always drink and brush with bottled water. Skip ice unless you know it’s purified. Stick to peeled fruits and cooked vegetables—they’re less risky for your stomach.
Choose stalls with high turnover: hot falafel, grilled meats, fresh stews, and oven bread are safe bets. Street food is a highlight, but for variety, balance it with sit-down meals at some of the Best Restaurants in Cairo where hygiene is monitored and menus are broader.
- Carry a small health kit: rehydration salts, probiotics, and anti-diarrheals.
- Wash or sanitize hands often—markets, trains, and taxis add contact points fast.
- Ask your hotel for early breakfast times to start exploring before heat and crowds.
- If digestion feels off, reset with soups, rice, and herbal teas for a day.
Enjoy the ritual of food—desserts after dinner, shared plates, and tea with locals are moments of cultural exchange. Just be mindful of water quality in sweets and drinks.
Drinking water | Bottled only | Tap and ice may be unsafe | Carry sealed bottles, refill after checkpoints |
Raw produce | Peeled fruit, cooked veg | Reduces GI risk | Choose fruit you peel yourself |
Street food | Busy stalls, hot dishes | High turnover keeps food safe | Follow the local queues |
Portions | Shared plates | Keeps variety without waste | Order 2–3 small plates per group |
Health tip: combine cautious eating with openness—sample local flavors, but do so smartly. You’ll enjoy Egypt’s cuisine without losing days to preventable illness.
Connectivity, Power, and On-the-Ground Logistics
Tech keeps your trip smooth—but Egypt’s conditions (heat, dust, checkpoints) can drain devices fast. Plan ahead so your phone, camera, and essentials stay reliable all day.
Always carry a universal adaptor (two round pins, 220V/50Hz) and a small power strip. Check your chargers before plugging in. A compact power bank saves you when outlets are scarce.
Keep both digital and printed versions of hotel details. Many checkpoints ask for your first-night stay info. Having it ready on paper or in an offline folder avoids delays. Airport Wi-Fi often needs SMS verification; without a local SIM, you may get stuck. Download maps, phrase lists, and key pins before you leave the hotel. More essential Egypt Travel Tips like this can make your journey easier.
- Pack devices in small pouches for faster security scans.
- Back up photos daily and carry extra memory cards—heat and dust can corrupt files.
- Switch to airplane mode in quiet sites to save battery, then reconnect for rides or calls.
- Keep backup payment methods in two separate places—never all in one wallet.
Pro tip: Ask your hotel about power stability each morning—outages happen. A charged power bank and offline documents are your best insurance for a calm day.
Plan Your Day the Local Way with Egypt Tours by Locals
A smooth day begins with preparation—permits, guides, and drivers aligned before sunrise. This approach saves hours of waiting and lets you focus on experience, not logistics. To get started, see our guide on How to Book Your Egypt Tour for practical steps.
Checkpoints are routine—guides ensure details are logged and permits in hand. Domestic flights move quickly between cities but plan extra time for double security. Ticket windows may close before site hours, and a good guide knows how to beat these cut-offs.
- Morning: Arrive at your first site as it opens—driver briefed, permits secured, light perfect.
- Mid-morning: Pause for mint tea and a local walk—conversations, not just monuments.
- Midday: Step into a shaded museum or artisan shop—rest with context and craft.
- Afternoon: Visit quieter banks or neighborhoods for golden-hour photos.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner with clear pricing and time to reflect on the day.
Our team matches guides to your interests—architecture, photography, food—so each day feels like yours. A dedicated driver eliminates haggling and handles transitions. Two major sites per day is our sweet spot for depth without burnout.
Transparent pricing—you know costs upfront, with no surprise add-ons. Your money supports licensed guides and local families. Ready to travel Egypt on your terms? With Egypt Tours Planner, your trip flexes with weather, crowd flow, and curiosity.
Permits & checkpoints | Paperwork & route checks | Fewer delays, smoother entries | We track daily restrictions |
Guides & drivers | Licensed professionals matched to interests | Local insight, stress-free transitions | Driver manages parking & timing |
Pricing | Clear day rates & fees | No surprise charges | Supports local communities |
Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling Egypt Like a Local
Do I need a visa to visit Egypt?
Most travelers require a visa to enter Egypt. Many nationalities can apply online for an eVisa or obtain a visa on arrival. Check the latest Egypt visa requirements before your trip.
Is Egypt safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Egypt is generally safe for solo travelers. Tourist police are present at major sites, and scams are more common than serious crime. Following basic precautions—like avoiding unofficial guides and using trusted transport—keeps your trip smooth.
What should women wear when traveling in Egypt?
Modest clothing is best. Cover shoulders and knees in urban areas and carry a scarf for mosque entry. Light, breathable fabrics keep you comfortable while respecting cultural norms. For a full guide, see What to Wear in Egypt.
When is the best time of year to visit Egypt?
The most comfortable months are October through April, with cooler mornings and manageable crowds. Summers (June–August) can exceed 100°F, so sightseeing is best done early or late in the day.
How many days do I need for my first trip to Egypt?
A balanced first trip takes 8–12 days, covering Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Shorter 5–6 day itineraries can focus on either Cairo + Giza or Luxor + Aswan. For detailed itineraries, see our Egypt Trip Itinerary.
Is street food safe in Egypt?
Yes, if you choose busy stalls with high turnover. Stick to hot dishes like falafel, grilled meats, and oven-baked bread. Always drink bottled water and avoid ice unless you know it’s purified.
What is the tipping etiquette in Egypt?
Tipping (“baksheesh”) is customary. Typical tips include 10% at restaurants, small change (5–10 EGP) for restroom attendants, and negotiated tips for guides and drivers. Learn more in our Tipping in Egypt Guide.
Conclusion
End your Egypt journey with clarity—mornings for major sites, slower afternoons for rest and reflection, and golden hours for unforgettable photos. This rhythm keeps your trip balanced and meaningful.
Throughout this guide, you’ve learned how to plan like a local: dress modestly, carry small bills, pack light tech, and expect airport-style checks at many entrances. Domestic flights and trains save hours, but always confirm station and ticket times—they often close earlier than site hours.
Choose two musts—such as sunrise at the pyramids or a felucca sail at sunset—and let the rest of your trip flex around them. The key is balance: depth over speed, calm over stress.
Next step: save this guide, sketch out your first three days, and secure your flights. If you want seamless logistics, Egypt Tours Planner can help connect you with guides, drivers, and local-first itineraries. That way, you experience Egypt with confidence, respect, and a touch of insider rhythm.