12-Day Egypt Exploration on a Shoestring Budget

  • Day 1: Cairo
    Distance: N/A

    Cairo, the bustling capital of Egypt, is a perfect place to start your journey. Check out the Great Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, and Museum of Egyptian Antiquities. Don't forget to try some street food and explore the vibrant markets.

  • Day 2-3: Luxor
    Distance from Cairo: 660 km; approx. 7-hour drive

    Visit the beautiful complexes of Karnak and Luxor Temples, as well as the Valley of the Kings, where you can see the tombs of ancient pharaohs. Take a hot air balloon ride over the Nile and enjoy the scenic beauty of the largest river in the world.

  • Day 4-5: Aswan
    Distance from Luxor: 230 km; approx. 3-hour drive

    Travel to Aswan to visit the stunning Philae Temple and the High Dam. Take a felucca ride (traditional sailboat) to explore the beautiful islands of Aswan, including the Botanical Gardens and Nubian Village.

  • Day 6: Abu Simbel
    Distance from Aswan: 280 km; approx. 3-hour drive

    Take a day trip to Abu Simbel to see the magnificent temples of Ramses II and Nefertari. Marvel at the ancient architecture and learn about the history of Egyptian Pharaohs.

  • Day 7: Alexandria
    Distance from Abu Simbel: N/A

    Head to Alexandria, the city founded by Alexander the Great. Visit the Citadel of Qaitbay, built on the site of ancient Alexandria's famous Pharaonic Lighthouse, and the Library of Alexandria, one of the most significant libraries of the ancient world.

  • Day 8-10: Dahab
    Distance from Alexandria: 670 km; approx. 9-hour drive

    Travel to Dahab, the perfect place to enjoy watersports and adventure activities like hiking, rock climbing, and desert safaris. Go snorkeling or diving to explore the vibrant coral reefs off the coast of the Red Sea. Don't forget to visit the Blue Hole, one of the most popular dive sites in the world.

  • Day 11-12: Sharm El-Sheikh
    Distance from Dahab: 95 km; approx. 1-hour drive

    Visit the beautiful coastal town of Sharm El-Sheikh to relax and unwind. Swim, sunbathe and indulge in a luxurious spa treatment. Go on a camel ride in the desert or ride a quad bike in the mountains. End your journey with a delicious seafood dinner overlooking the Red Sea.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Great Pyramids of Giza: 2-3 hours, EGP 200-300
  • Museum of Egyptian Antiquities: 2-3 hours, EGP 160
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: 45 mins-1 hour, EGP 1,000-1,500
  • Philae Temple: 2-3 hours, EGP 200
  • Citadel of Qaitbay: 1-2 hours, EGP 60
  • Blue Hole: 2-3 hours, EGP 50-100
  • Seafood dinner: EGP 200-300 per person
  • Total Estimated Costs: EGP 3,070-4,310

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Siwa Oasis or the White Desert. For a shorter itinerary, skip Alexandria and spend more time in Dahab or Sharm El-Sheikh. Keep in mind that summers in Egypt can be extremely hot, so plan accordingly. It's also a good idea to bring sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a scarf for visiting religious sites.

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