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The Ultimate Egypt Travel Itinerary: 10 Days Of Exploring Ancient Egypt

Heading to the lovely country of Egypt? This is the ultimate Egypt travel itinerary that you’re going to love. Explore the ancient wonders of Egypt, see the stunning temples, visit the pyramids, and more.

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Egypt is a country in Africa that links the northeast part of Africa to the Middle East. Egypt is a city of many ancient wonders, and one-of-a-kind beauty, has so much rich history, and a very unique culture. Explore Egypt’s most famous sites, accommodations, tours, and must-do activities.

In this post, you will see the ultimate 10-day Egypt travel itinerary that will show you the best time to visit Egypt, the best Nile cruise itinerary, the most popular things to do in Egypt, the ultimate Egypt cultural experiences, the best Egypt travel itinerary for first-time visitors, and so much more.

This specific Egypt travel itinerary will start in Cairo, then will take you to some Ancient Wonders like The Pyramids of Giza and the stunning Sphinx statue. You will explore the beautiful city of Luxor, see all the wonderful temples Egypt has to offer, and even go on the best Nile River Cruise where you can see so many amazing sights.

This post is all about the ultimate Egypt Travel Itinerary.

The Ultimate Egypt Travel Itinerary

Best Time To Visit Egypt

Egypt has fairly mild temperatures throughout the year. There is a hot season and a cooler season which is perfect temperatures in my opinion. The hot season in Egypt is from May to September with temperatures reaching 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a great time to visit if you don’t mind the heat and are looking for cheaper hotels and cheaper flights. There are also a lot fewer tourists during this time.

The most ideal time to visit Egypt is from October to April. The weather is fairly mild with temperatures ranging from 60 degrees Fahrenheit to about 85 degrees Fahrenheit. This time of year is more crowded with tourists but the weather is a lot more manageable. Prices are slightly higher at this time.

The busiest time in Egypt is December and January which is around the holidays which is normal for most locations. Prices are also highest at this time due to higher demand the usual.

Day 1: Arrive in Cairo

Cairo is the capital city of Egypt and is also the largest. Once you arrive in Cairo, head to your hotel and settle in. Cairo is a very large city and has about 10 million people. There are 2 main parts to stay either in the city or on the outskirts close to the pyramids. Both are great places to stay, it just depends on what you are looking for. Make sure all your tours and tickets for everything are booked ahead of time to avoid wait times. Also, a good idea to exchange some money for your trip. Explore the unique busy streets and stop at a cafe or two for some coffee and a traditional Egyptian meal.

Day 2: The Great Pyramids Of Giza And The Sphinx

On day 2 head to see Egypt’s most iconic landmarks the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. They are surrounded by a complex. There are 3 main pyramids: Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure. The largest pyramid which is the Great Pyramid of Khufu is also considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. These Pyramids used to be royal tombs for Egyptian pharaohs. For an additional fee you can go inside the pyramids as well, it is such a unique experience.

The Sphinx is a giant statue that has the body of a lion and the bead of a pharaoh. It symbolizes strength and wisdom. There is a lot of history surrounding the Sphinx. You cannot go inside the Sphinx or even touch it. It is blocked off from anyone walking around. There are many spots to take a photo of the Sphinx even with the Pyramids in the background.

It is best to visit this complex earlier in the day to avoid larger crowds. If you want to learn all the history of the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx then the best option would be to take a guided tour that explains all the history. A cool and unique way to visit the complex would be by camel. You can experience a camel ride around the complex to see everything.

Day 3: Saqqara And Memphis

On day 3 of your Egypt travel itinerary head to Saqqara and Memphis. These are two significant archaeological sites that are located just outside Cairo in Egypt. First visit The Saqqara which was also a burial ground for many years. The biggest highlight of Saqqara is the funerary complex and the Step Pyramid of Djoser. This is also known as one of Egypt’s very first pyramids and also the world’s oldest pyramid.

For the afternoon head to the ancient city of Memphis. Memphis is filled with pyramids and other statues that have a great history as well. The biggest sight in Memphis is the Colossus of Ramses II. The statue represents the pharaoh’s reign.

Day 4: Cairo City Tour

For day 4 of your ultimate Egypt travel itinerary explore the wonderful city of Cairo. Cairo is full of rich history and so many amazing things to see and do. Visit the popular Egyptian Museum, where you can learn and see artifacts about the famous King Tutankhamun’s tomb. The museum is filled with so much history surrounding all of Egypt, the pharaohs, the architecture, and more. Next, head to the Citadel of Salah El-Din. The Citadel is an Ancient Egyptian Fort that was built on high grounds. Here you will see the amazing Muhammad Ali Mosque. To end your Cairo city day visit the Khan El-Khalili Bazaar where you can enjoy some shopping, food, and cultural experiences.

Day 5: Travel To Luxor

After exploring Cairo and the surrounding areas. Take a short flight to the wonderful city of Luxor. Luxor is one of Egypt’s most amazing cities. Once known as the Ancient City of Thebes it is called the world’s greatest open-air museum. Luxor is split into two areas: The East Bank and The West Bank of the Nile River. Each side has its own unique architecture and history.

Start by visiting The East Bank first once you arrive. The East Bank has a lot of temples and many archaeological sites that resemble life and daily worship in Egypt. First, visit the stunning Luxor Temple. It is located in the city center and is also linked to the Karnak Temple right by the Avenue of Sphinxes. Also, explore the Karnal Temple Complex which is the largest temple complex in the world. The biggest thing here is the Great Hypostyle Hall which has 134 very large columns, the Sacred Lake, and the Obelisk of Hashepsut.

Day 6: Valley Of The Kings, Valley Of The Queens, And Hashepsut

On day 6 of your Egypt travel itinerary visit The West Bank of Luxor. The West Bank of Luxor includes the Valley of the Kings, The Valley of the Queens, The Temple of Hatshepsut, and The Colossi of Memnon. The Valley of the Kings was made famous by the tombs of pharaohs like Tutankhamun, Seti I, and Ramses II. Each of these tombs is covered with elaborate murals and hieroglyphics, these are supposed to help guide the pharaohs in their afterlife. You can get tickets to visit a lot of the tombs and you need a special ticket to access Tutankhamun’s tomb. The best way to see all of the Valley of the Kings is via a hot air balloon ride early in the morning to see the sunrise and all the valley. A great and unique experience everyone should have.

Next visit the Valley of the Queens, this is where the wives and the children of the royal pharaohs were buried. After the Valley of the Queen’s head to the Temple of Hatshepsut, a temple dedicated to Queen Hatshepsut, one of Ancient Egypt’s few female pharaohs. Such an amazing temple worth seeing. Next, visit the Colossi of Memnon, they are two large statues of pharaoh Amenhotep III and are almost 60 feet tall and a very popular sight in The West Bank of Luxor.

Days 7-8: Nile River Cruise From Luxor To Aswan

On days 7 and 8 of your ultimate Egypt travel itinerary relax and enjoy an amazing scenic cruise from Luxor to Aswan. Along the way stop and visit the Temple of Edfu and the Temple of Kom Ombo. Enjoy the stunning scenic views of the Nile and the small villages and ancient ruins as you cruise by. This is the perfect time to relax before doing more adventures.

Day 9: Explore Aswan And The Philae Temple

After arriving in Aswan explore the wonderful scenic city. Aswan is located on the Nile in southern Egypt and is famous for its laid-back charm, one-of-a-kind culture, and many significant historical sites. Visit the Aswan High Dam, the unfinished Obelisk, and the Nubian Villages.

Next head to the Philae Temple. The Temple is dedicated to the goddess Isis. It is located in a Temple Complex that has courtyards and sanctuaries and is decorated in reliefs and carvings. Well-preserved temples and are very unique.

Day 10: Abu Simbel

On the last day of your Egypt travel itinerary, you need to visit the Abu Simbel Temples. Abu Simbel is one of Egypt’s most famous monuments. It lies in southern Egypt near the Sudan border and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has so much historical significance and stunning artistry. Abu Simbel consists of 2 main temples: The Great Temple and The Small Temple. There is also a solar alignment phenomenon of Abu Simbel. It is a solar event that happens twice a year; on February 22 and October 22. It marks Ramses II’s coronation and birthday. the sun illuminates the statues of Ramses and the other two deities and leaves the one Ptah in the shadow. This is a great experience and is a great way to end your 10-day Egypt travel itinerary.