9-Day Shoestring Budget Adventure and Cultural Immersion in Egypt

Day 1: Explore Cairo

Cairo, Egypt

8:00AM

Breakfast at El-Fishawy

Start your day with a traditional Egyptian breakfast of ful medames, served at the historic El-Fishawy café in Khan el-Khalili market.
Walk around the market after breakfast.
EGP 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Egyptian Museum

Explore the treasures of ancient Egypt, including the Tutankhamun exhibit at the Egyptian Museum.
Take a short taxi ride from Khan el-Khalili to the museum.
EGP 200, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Felfela

Enjoy a budget-friendly meal of shawarma or falafel, famous for their vibrant local atmosphere.
It's a 10-minute taxi ride or walk back towards Tahrir Square.
EGP 60, 1 hour

1:30PM

Stroll through Al-Azhar Park

Relax at this beautifully landscaped park offering stunning views of Cairo's skyline and mosques.
Catch a microbus towards the park.
EGP 40, 2 hours

4:00PM

Coptic Cairo

Visit the ancient churches and learn about Egypt's early Christian heritage, including the Hanging Church.
Ride a microbus to Coptic Cairo.
EGP 20, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Abou Tarek

Savor an authentic koshari experience - the classic Egyptian dish of rice, lentils, and pasta.
Take a short taxi ride to reach Abou Tarek.
EGP 50, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Cairo Highlights

Cairo, Egypt

8:00AM

Breakfast at Zooba

Try out Zooba for a modern twist on Egyptian street food, such as their delicious ta'ameya.
Use the metro to get there quickly.
EGP 70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Great Pyramids of Giza

Marvel at the iconic Great Pyramid of Giza and the Sphinx as you stroll around this ancient wonder.
Take a local bus from Cairo to Giza.
EGP 250, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Felfela Giza

Grab a traditional Egyptian meal with a view of the pyramids at this charming restaurant.
Return to Felfela, conveniently located in Giza.
EGP 75, 1 hour

2:30PM

Camel Ride around the Pyramids

Experience the thrill of riding a camel while enjoying breathtaking views of the pyramids.
Book this onsite after lunch.
EGP 150, 2 hours

4:30PM

Sakkara exploration

Head to Sakkara to see the Step Pyramid of Djoser and explore the vast necropolis that predate the pyramids.
Take a taxi or local bus from Giza to Sakkara.
EGP 100, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at El-Wahy

Enjoy home-cooked style Egyptian food in a casual setting, perfect for reflecting on your day's adventures.
Return to Cairo for dinner.
EGP 50, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Journey to Luxor

Giza, Egypt

7:00AM

Breakfast at Le Meridien

Enjoy an early breakfast overlooking the Nile before heading to Luxor.
Walk to the nearby café.
EGP 80, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Luxor

Take the overnight train to Luxor for a scenic journey through the enchanting Egyptian landscape.
Board at Giza train station.
EGP 200, 12 hours

8:30PM

Dinner on the train

Enjoy a simple dinner on board your train, connecting with fellow travelers.
Dinner is served on the train.
EGP 70, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Explore Luxor

Luxor, Egypt

8:30AM

Breakfast at a local café

Enjoy a simple breakfast with local bread and cheese at a nearby café upon your arrival.
Walk to the café from your accommodation.
EGP 60, 1 hour

10:00AM

Valley of the Kings

Explore the tombs of the pharaohs, including Tutankhamun's tomb in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Hire a local taxi or join a group tour.
EGP 200, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Abu El Sid

Indulge in authentic Egyptian cuisine while relaxing and enjoying the lovely decor.
Take a taxi from Valley of the Kings.
EGP 80, 1 hour

2:30PM

Temple of Hatshepsut

Visit this magnificent temple dedicated to the only female pharaoh, a stunning architectural feat.
Proceed by taxi from the lunch spot.
EGP 100, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Karnak Temple

Stroll through this vast temple complex, one of the largest religious buildings in the world.
Walk or take a local bus from Hatshepsut’s temple.
EGP 150, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at El Hussein

Cap your day with delicious grilled meats and fresh salads at this affordable local eatery.
Taxi back to town for dinner.
EGP 60, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: More of Luxor

Luxor, Egypt

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Have breakfast at your accommodation to prepare for a full day of exploration.
Enjoy the simple buffet before heading out.
EGP 50, 1 hour

9:00AM

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience a breathtaking sunrise hot air balloon ride over Luxor's stunning sites.
Transportation is usually included.
EGP 1,200, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Colossi of Memnon

Stop by these impressive ancient statues, perfect for photos.
Taxi to the nearby site.
EGP 50, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Cafe Corniche

Enjoy fresh sandwiches and Egyptian desserts while soaking in riverside views.
Walk back towards the Nile for lunch.
EGP 70, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Luxor Museum

Richly decorated with artifacts from ancient Thebes, including mummies and sculptures.
Short taxi ride from lunch.
EGP 100, 2 hours

4:30PM

Nile River Felucca Ride

Sail on a traditional felucca boat while enjoying the peaceful scenery along the Nile.
Find a provider along the riverfront.
EGP 150, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Street Vendor

Relish the flavors of Egypt at a street vendor, trying options like grilled corn and hawawshi.
Enjoy the local street food scene walking back.
EGP 30, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Aswan Adventure

Aswan, Egypt

7:00AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Fuel up for the day with breakfast at your hotel before heading to Aswan.
Enjoy a peaceful morning at the hotel.
EGP 60, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Aswan

Journey to Aswan via bus, experiencing scenic views along the way.
Board at Luxor bus station.
EGP 100, 3 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Nubian Restaurant

Savor authentic Nubian dishes including grilled fish and spicy sauces.
Find the restaurant near your bus station.
EGP 80, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Philae Temple

Explore the stunning temple dedicated to Goddess Isis, beautifully situated on an island.
Take a water taxi to reach the temple.
EGP 150, 2 hours

4:00PM

Aswan High Dam

Tour the monumental dam that created Lake Nasser and influenced the economy of Egypt.
Take a local bus to the dam.
EGP 50, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Local Eatery

Enjoy an evening meal at one of Aswan's local eateries, featuring Egyptian grilled meats.
Walk to the dining area along the Nile.
EGP 55, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Nubian Culture

Aswan, Egypt

7:30AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with local pastries and fresh fruits.
Relax at the hotel before adventures begin.
EGP 60, 1 hour

9:00AM

Nubian Village Tour

Visit a traditional Nubian village to learn about their unique culture, see colorful houses, and meet locals.
Join a group tour or hire a guide.
EGP 300, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch with a Nubian Family

Enjoy an authentic homemade meal, experiencing true Nubian hospitality.
Arranged through your tour group.
Included, 1 hour

1:30PM

Return to Aswan

Travel back to Aswan after enjoying the vibrant local culture.
Return via the same tour method.
Included, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Tombs of the Nobles

Explore these rock-cut tombs displaying ancient Egyptian art and beautiful designs.
Take a short taxi ride to the site.
EGP 100, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Felucca ride at sunset

Experience a peaceful felucca ride as you sail along the Nile, watching the sun set in vibrant colors.
Find a provider on the riverfront.
EGP 150, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Local Restaurant

Sip on traditional Egyptian tea and enjoy local dishes at a simple restaurant.
Walk back to the heart of Aswan for dinner.
EGP 60, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Day Trip to Abu Simbel

Abu Simbel, Egypt

4:00AM

Early breakfast on the go

Grab a quick breakfast from your hotel before the adventurous day ahead.
Pack light for a busy day.
EGP 30, 30 minutes

4:30AM

Travel to Abu Simbel

Join a group tour or travel by bus to the magnificent temples of Abu Simbel.
Depart from Aswan bus station.
EGP 300, 3 hours

8:30AM

Explore Abu Simbel

Marvel at the grandeur of the temples built by Ramses II, a highlight of ancient Egyptian architecture.
Touring the site with a guide.
EGP 100, 2 hours

10:30AM

Return to Aswan

Travel back to Aswan enjoying the beautiful landscapes along the way.
Return by bus.
Included, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Local Eatery

Indulge in local food to refuel after your early morning.
Choose a spot near your hotel.
EGP 70, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax by the Nile

Take the afternoon to unwind by the Nile River after an eventful morning.
Stroll along the Nile promenade.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Join locals at a nearby establishment for quiet conversations and hearty meals.
Walk to a local favorite spot.
EGP 60, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Final Day in Cairo

Cairo, Egypt

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor your last breakfast in Egypt at your hotel before returning to Cairo.
Take it easy and enjoy your meal.
EGP 60, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel back to Cairo

Catch an essential bus or train back to Cairo to conclude your wonderful trip.
Board your transportation back to Cairo.
EGP 150, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Abdel Rehim Koueider

Enjoy farewell Egyptian street food, such as koshari or foul, from this famous spot.
Find it right nearby Cairo's train station.
EGP 50, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Islamic Cairo

Explore the maze-like streets, visiting the Ibn Tulun Mosque and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Take a taxi to Islamic Cairo.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Last-minute Shopping in Khan el-Khalili

Check for souvenirs or last-minute items in this bustling market.
Walk from Islamic Cairo back to Khan el-Khalili.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Sequoia

Enjoy a farewell dinner with a view of the Nile, reflecting on a trip full of memories.
A short taxi ride to Sequoia.
EGP 120, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability