Excursions in Egypt: the Best Routes, Sights and Travel Tips

Egypt is much more than a beach holiday. Here you can see ancient pyramids, the great temples of the pharaohs, old monasteries, oriental cities and extraordinary desert landscapes. Travellers can choose from day trips to Cairo and Luxor, boat trips, desert safaris, island days and private tours with a personal guide. Below: the main types of excursions, what each offers and how to choose the right one.

Cairo: the pyramids and the treasures of ancient Egypt

Cairo is the goal of most travellers’ first big trip: the Giza pyramids and the Great Sphinx, the Grand Egyptian Museum with the complete Tutankhamun collection, and for those with more time the Citadel, Old Cairo and the Khan el-Khalili bazaar.

• The Giza pyramids and the Sphinx — our guide.
• The Grand Egyptian Museum — tickets and what to see.
• Historic Cairo — what to see in 1–2 days.

From Hurghada you can go by coach, in a mini-group or by plane — the choice depends on your budget and how much time you want to spend on the road.

Luxor: a journey to the age of the pharaohs

Luxor is called the world’s largest open-air museum. On a day trip you visit Karnak Temple, the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon, with a boat ride across the Nile. It is ideal for anyone interested in history, architecture and the culture of ancient Egypt. Both group and private trips run from Hurghada and Marsa Alam. More in our Luxor guide.

Red Sea boat trips

The Red Sea is famous for its coral reefs and clear water. Popular sea excursions include:

• Yacht trips to islands such as Orange Bay, Paradise Island and Giftun.
• Snorkelling over coral reefs.
• Dolphin trips by speedboat.
• The semi-submarine — reefs through glass, great with children.
• Diving with an instructor.

Planning a holiday in Hurghada? Read our complete Hurghada travel guide.

Excursions from Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh, on the Sinai Peninsula, combines some of the world’s best reefs with historic and natural sights. Popular trips: Ras Mohammed National Park and Tiran Island, Mount Sinai with St Catherine’s Monastery, Dahab, Cairo and Luxor by plane, and multi-day trips to Jerusalem and Petra. More in “Things to do in Sharm El Sheikh”.

Desert safaris

The desert is another side of Egypt worth discovering. Depending on the programme, you can ride quad bikes or buggies, take a jeep safari, ride a camel, visit a Bedouin village and stay for dinner and an evening show under the stars. Before booking, check the length of the trip, what is included and any age requirements.

How to choose the right excursion

• Duration. Some tours take a few hours, others a full day or even longer.
• Group format. Choose a group tour, a mini-group or a private tour.
• Transport. For long routes there are coaches, minibuses and flights.
• Programme. Check which sights and services are included in the price.
• Age restrictions. Some sea and active tours have special rules for children.

Why book with WOW Travel Service

We have been organising excursions in Egypt since 2008: group trips and mini-groups, private tours with Egyptologist guides, transfers and help choosing a programme. Booking is free, there is no prepayment and you pay on the day of the tour. Message us and we will help you pick the excursions that suit your interests, budget and holiday dates.