8-Day Adventure and Cultural Immersion in Egypt on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Cairo Arrival

Cairo, Egypt

9:00AM

Breakfast at El Masry

Kick start your adventure with a traditional Egyptian breakfast including ful medames (fava beans) and ta'ameya (falafel) at this popular local spot.
Located in the heart of Cairo; accessible via public transport.
EGP50, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Giza Pyramids

Explore one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World at Giza, where you can see the Great Pyramid, Sphinx, and take iconic photos.
Take a local bus from central Cairo; service available every 30 minutes.
EGP200, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Abu Shakra

Enjoy a budget-friendly plate of grilled chicken or kofta with rice and salad at this local eatery.
Walk to the restaurant nearby; approximately a 10-minute walk.
EGP80, 1 hour

3:00PM

Egyptian Museum Visit

Dive deep into Egypt's history by exploring the Egyptian Museum, home to an extensive collection of ancient artifacts.
Take a taxi from the restaurant to the museum; about 15 minutes.
EGP200, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Al-Azhar Park

Unwind at one of the most beautiful parks in Cairo, boasting stunning views of the city and historic mosques.
Local taxi; approximately 10 minutes.
EGP50, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Felfela

Taste authentic Egyptian dishes, such as koshari and stuffed pigeon, in a casual atmosphere.
Short walk from Al-Azhar Park; approximately 15 minutes.
EGP90, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Exploration Day

Cairo, Egypt

8:00AM

Breakfast at Zooba

Start your day with delicious Egyptian street food staples like ta’ameya and freshly squeezed juice.
Take a local bus to Zooba; around 20 minutes.
EGP70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Khan El Khalili Bazaar

Wander through this vibrant bazaar filled with souvenirs, spices, and textiles while honing your negotiation skills.
Go on foot after breakfast; 10-minute walk.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Naguib Mahfouz Cafe

Grab a light lunch at this well-known café in the bazaar, with delicious sandwiches and mint tea.
Located within the bazaar.
EGP80, 1 hour

1:30PM

Coptic Cairo Exploration

Discover the rich history of Coptic Christians, visiting sites such as the Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue.
Take a local bus to Coptic Cairo; about 25 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Islamic Cairo

Explore famous mosques like Al-Hussein Mosque and Al-Azhar Mosque to appreciate Islamic architecture.
Local walking tour; about a 15-minute walk.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Abou El Sid

Savor traditional Egyptian cuisine including otlob (roasted meats) in a cozy atmosphere.
A short taxi ride from Islamic Cairo; approx. 10 minutes.
EGP100, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Journey to Luxor

Luxor, Egypt

7:00AM

Depart from Cairo

Board a budget train to Luxor early in the morning, enjoying scenic views along the Nile.
Train station in Cairo; book tickets in advance.
EGP200, 9 hours

4:00PM

Check into Accommodation

Settle into a budget-friendly hotel or hostel in Luxor.
Walking distance from train station.
EGP300 per night, 1 hour

5:00PM

Visit Luxor Temple

Marvel at the grandeur of Luxor Temple during golden hour, when the temple's lights illuminate its stunning structures.
Walk from accommodations to the temple; about 15 minutes.
EGP100, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at El Hussein

Enjoy local Egyptian dishes in a beautiful garden setting close to the temple.
Short walk from Luxor Temple.
EGP90, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Luxor History Exploration

Luxor, Egypt

7:00AM

Breakfast at Crocodile

Have a hearty breakfast with omelets and local bread to energize for the day's adventures.
15-minute walk from accommodations.
EGP60, 1 hour

8:00AM

Valley of the Kings

Explore the burial site of famous pharaohs, including Tutankhamun, while marveling at elaborate tombs.
Take a local taxi; around 30 minutes.
EGP200, 3 hours

11:30AM

Hatshepsut Temple

Visit the mortuary temple of Hatshepsut, an architectural masterpiece set against stunning cliffs.
Short drive from Valley of the Kings; approximately 10 minutes.
EGP100, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Aisha Restaurant

Indulge in a budget-friendly, delicious Egyptian meal in a relaxed atmosphere.
Drive back towards Luxor; 20-minute taxi ride.
EGP90, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Temple of Karnak

Wander through the magnificent ruins of Karnak Temple and learn about its rich history.
Local taxi; about 15 minutes.
EGP100, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sofra Restaurant & Cafe

Wrap up your day with some great local cuisine, enjoying traditional dishes in a cozy setting.
Return to central Luxor; taxi around 15 minutes.
EGP100, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Travel to Aswan

Aswan, Egypt

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a simple breakfast provided by your accommodation before your journey to Aswan.
At hotel; 1 hour.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Train to Aswan

Catch a budget train to Aswan and enjoy more beautiful views along the Nile.
Train station in Luxor.
EGP150, 3 hours

11:00AM

Check into Accommodation

Arrive in Aswan and settle into your budget-friendly hotel or hostel.
Walking distance from train station.
EGP300 per night, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Nubian Restaurant

Experience the rich flavors of Nubian cuisine at this affordable and welcoming restaurant.
Short walk from accommodations; 10 minutes.
EGP80, 1 hour

2:00PM

Philae Temple Visit

Take a boat trip to Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, renowned for its stunning scenery.
Local ferry from Aswan dock; about 45 minutes.
EGP200, 2 hours

5:00PM

Nile River Felucca Ride

Experience a traditional felucca sailboat ride on the Nile and enjoy the tranquil views.
Hire a felucca directly from the dock; easily accessible.
EGP150, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Fathy's

Savor a variety of grilled meats and vegetarian dishes in a friendly setting right by the river.
Short walk from the docking area; 10 minutes.
EGP90, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Aswan Exploration

Aswan, Egypt

8:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Start your day with a cheap breakfast at your hotel to energize for another day of exploration.
At hotel; 1 hour.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Unfinished Obelisk

Visit the Unfinished Obelisk to see ancient stone-cutting techniques and learn about their significance.
Local taxi from the city center; 15 minutes.
EGP50, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Kom Ombo Temple

Take a short trip to the dual temple dedicated to both Sobek and Haroeris, with stunning river views.
Local taxi; approximately 30 minutes.
EGP150, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Moon Valley

Enjoy a cozy lunch with various traditional dishes in this restaurant with a local vibe.
Taxi back to Aswan; around 30 minutes.
EGP70, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Nubian Village

Spend the afternoon visiting a traditional Nubian village, experiencing the rich culture and colorful houses.
Arrange with a local guide who can organize transport; about 30 minutes.
EGP100, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Old Cataract Hotel

Enjoy a stylish dining experience overlooking the Nile in this historical hotel.
Taxi ride back to Aswan; approximately 15 minutes.
EGP150, 2 hours
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Day 7: Day Trip to Abu Simbel

Abu Simbel, Egypt

4:30AM

Early Morning Departure

Set out early for a day trip to magnificent Abu Simbel to maximize your sightseeing time.
Join a local organized bus tour.
EGP600, 3 hours

7:30AM

Explore Abu Simbel Temples

Marvel at the monumental temples built to honor Ramses II, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Walking distance from the drop-off point.
EGP200, 3 hours

11:00AM

Return to Aswan

Head back to Aswan while reminiscing about the incredible sights seen at Abu Simbel.
Ride back on the organized bus.
Included in tour cost., 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch in Aswan

Have a quick lunch at a local café, enjoying Egyptian street food.
Walk to a nearby café after arrival.
EGP70, 1 hour

3:30PM

Local Market Visit

Explore Aswan's local market to shop for souvenirs and local crafts.
Short walk from lunch spot; about 10 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Al Nakhil

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with authentic Egyptian dishes, including fresh salads and grilled options.
Around 10 minutes walk from the market.
EGP80, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Return to Cairo

Cairo, Egypt

8:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Enjoy a final breakfast in Aswan before heading back to Cairo.
At hotel; 1 hour.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Cairo

Catch a morning train back to Cairo to reflect on your incredible journey through Egypt.
Walking distance to the train station; leave early.
EGP200, 13 hours

10:00PM

Arrival in Cairo

Arrive back in Cairo for your final evening; consider a farewell dinner at a local restaurant to summarize your trip.
Taxi to restaurant from the station.
EGP90, 1.5 hours

11:30PM

End of Adventure

Reflect on your enriching experiences in Egypt before concluding your journey!
Head back to accommodation once dinner is finished.
Free, 1 hour
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