Egypt 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Egypt Itinerary: Pyramids & Pharaohs

This itinerary focuses on the highlights of ancient Egypt, combining iconic sites with cultural experiences.

Visa Requirements: Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Egyptian airports for $25 USD. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

Transportation: Domestic flights are efficient for long distances. Within cities, taxis and Uber are readily available. Consider hiring a private driver for day trips to maximize flexibility.

Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP). ATMs are widely accessible, and credit cards are accepted in most hotels and tourist shops.

Things to Know:

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Cover shoulders and knees.
  • Bargaining is expected in markets and with street vendors.
  • Stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it regularly.
  • Learn basic Arabic phrases. Even simple greetings like “shukran” (thank you) will be appreciated.

Day 1: Cairo - Pyramids & Sphinx

  • Morning: Arrive in Cairo, check into your hotel, and leave your luggage.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Giza Plateau, home to the iconic Great Pyramid of Giza, the Sphinx, and other smaller pyramids. Explore the interior of a pyramid (optional) and marvel at the scale of these ancient wonders.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner with views of the Pyramids, soaking in the magical atmosphere.

Day 2: Cairo - History & Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Egyptian Museum, home to an astounding collection of ancient artifacts, including Tutankhamun’s treasures.
  • Afternoon: Explore Khan el-Khalili bazaar, a vibrant labyrinth of shops selling spices, perfumes, textiles, and souvenirs. Practice your bargaining skills!
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Egyptian dinner with live music and belly dancing.

Day 3: Luxor - Temple of Karnak & Valley of the Kings

  • Morning: Fly from Cairo to Luxor. Check into your hotel and leave your luggage.

  • Afternoon: Visit the Temple of Karnak, an awe-inspiring complex dedicated to the Theban gods. Explore its towering columns, intricate carvings, and sacred lakes.

  • Evening: Enjoy a relaxing felucca ride on the Nile River at sunset, admiring the views of the Luxor Temple illuminated against the night sky.

Day 4: Luxor - Valley of the Kings & Hatshepsut Temple

  • Morning: Explore the Valley of the Kings, where pharaohs were buried for centuries. Visit the tombs of Tutankhamun, Ramses VI, and others, marveling at their intricate paintings and hieroglyphics.
  • Afternoon: Discover the Temple of Hatshepsut, a unique structure dedicated to Egypt’s only female pharaoh.

Day 5: Aswan - Nile Cruise & Philae Temple

  • Morning: Take a train from Luxor to Aswan. Check into your cruise ship and enjoy lunch on board.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Philae Temple, relocated to an island due to rising waters from the Aswan Dam. Explore its majestic columns and intricate reliefs dedicated to Isis, the goddess of motherhood and magic.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Egyptian dinner on board the cruise ship while sailing down the Nile.

Optional Extensions:

  • Extend your stay in Aswan and visit Abu Simbel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with colossal statues of Ramses II.
  • Relax on the Red Sea coast at Hurghada or Sharm El-Sheikh for diving and snorkeling.

Enjoy your unforgettable adventure in Egypt!