Imagine that you are standing at the foot of the huge pyramids, feeling the warm golden sand under your feet, and looking out over the vast expanse of the fertile banks of the Nile. Now, imagine doing all this and more over 11 days in Egypt without spending much money. This is not just a dream. It is a carefully planned reality waiting for you. Our 11-day Egypt tours aren’t just another travel guide – they’re your gateway to experiencing the grandeur of ancient history mixed with the vibrant pulse of modern life, all within a budget that will have you packing your bags without a second thought.
Embarking on an Egyptian trip is often considered an unattainable luxury. But what if I told you that the secrets of the Pharaohs, the whispers of the Great Sphinx, and the beauty of the tranquil reefs of the Red Sea are all at your fingertips for a fraction of the price you imagined? It’s the truth. Through this post, you will learn about the hidden gems of Egypt, a land where every grain of sand tells a story, each more fascinating and accessible than the last.
This carefully curated 11-day Egypt itinerary promises to reveal Egypt’s secrets in a way that’s as good for your wallet as it is for your insatiable wanderlust. From the maze of Khan El Khalili Bazaar to the tranquil, dhow-filled skyline off the coast of Aswan, our guide will lead you through experiences that even the most seasoned travelers often miss.
Book The Best Egypt Itinerary 11 Days with Egypt Planners
No matter your interests, you will surely have an unforgettable time in Egypt. With its rich history, culture, and natural beauty, Egypt is a country that has something to offer everyone. Here are the best itinerary options for Egypt in 11 Days.
Itinerary #1: 11 Day Cairo & Nile Cruise and Hurghada
Day 1: Arrival in Cairo
Morning/Afternoon: Arrival at Cairo International Airport. After completing immigration and customs formalities, meet your tour representative who will assist you with the transfer to your hotel in Cairo.
Evening: Rest and recuperate from your journey. If time and energy permit, enjoy a leisurely evening exploring the area around your hotel.
Day 2: Giza Pyramids, Saqqara & Memphis
Morning: Start your adventure with a visit to the Giza Plateau to see the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. Explore these ancient wonders and consider a camel ride for a unique experience.
Afternoon: Head to Saqqara, home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the world’s oldest complete stone building complex. Then, visit Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt, to see the statue of Ramses II and the Alabaster Sphinx.
Evening: Return to Cairo. Free time to relax or explore Cairo by night.
Day 3: Egyptian Museum, Cairo Citadel & Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
Morning: Visit the Egyptian Museum, which houses an extensive collection of ancient Egyptian antiquities, including the treasures of Tutankhamun.
Afternoon: Explore the Cairo Citadel, a medieval Islamic fortification. Visit the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, also known as the Alabaster Mosque. Then, head to the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, one of the oldest markets in the world, perfect for souvenir shopping.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional Egyptian dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 4: Fly to Aswan – Aswan City Tour
Morning: Transfer to Cairo Airport for your flight to Aswan. Upon arrival, start your Aswan city tour, visiting the High Dam, the Unfinished Obelisk, and the beautiful Philae Temple.
Afternoon: Enjoy a felucca ride on the Nile, offering views of the Agha Khan Mausoleum and the Nilometer.
Evening: Check into your hotel in Aswan. Leisure time to explore Aswan’s serene environment.
Day 5: Tour to Kom Ombo Temple
Morning/Afternoon: Depart for a visit to Kom Ombo Temple, dedicated to the gods Sobek and Haroeris. This double temple is unique, reflecting the duality of ancient Egyptian gods.
Evening: Return to Aswan. Free evening to enjoy Aswan or relax at your hotel.
Day 6: Edfu Temple & Luxor West Bank Tour
Morning: Travel to Edfu to visit the well-preserved Temple of Edfu, dedicated to the god Horus.
Afternoon: Continue to Luxor and start your tour of the West Bank, visiting the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, and the Colossi of Memnon.
Evening: Check into your hotel in Luxor.
Day 7: Hurghada Open Day & Back to Cairo
Morning: Depart Luxor for Hurghada on the Red Sea. The day is at your leisure to enjoy the beach, snorkeling, or diving in the beautiful Red Sea.
Evening: Overnight bus or transfer back to Cairo.
Day 8: Hurghada Open Day
All Day: Enjoy another open day in Hurghada. Explore the town, relax on the beach, or partake in water sports and other activities.
Evening: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Hurghada or a tranquil evening on the beach.\
Day 9: Hurghada Open Day & Back to Cairo
Morning/Afternoon: Spend your last day in Hurghada at leisure, soaking up the sun and sea.
Evening: Transfer back to Cairo. Check into your hotel for a restful night.
Day 10: Tour to Islamic and Coptic Cairo
Morning: Dive into the history of Islamic Cairo, visiting the Citadel, the Mosque of Ibn Tulun, and the Gayer-Anderson Museum.
Afternoon: Explore Coptic Cairo, including the Hanging Church, the Coptic Museum, the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus, and Ben Ezra Synagogue.
Evening: Free evening for last-minute shopping or exploring.
Day 11: Final Departure
Morning: Depending on your flight time, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel.
Afternoon: Transfer to Cairo International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your journey through Egypt’s rich history and culture
Recommended activities to do for a vacation in Egypt
Egypt offers a wide range of activities that are perfect for a vacation. Here are some of the suggested activities to do in Egypt:
- Camel Rides: Take a camel ride and experience the traditional mode of transportation in Egypt. Camel rides are available at many tourist sites, including the Pyramids of Giza and the Valley of the Kings.
- Hot Air Balloon Rides: Take a hot air balloon ride over Luxor or the Valley of the Kings and enjoy the stunning views of the ancient temples and tombs from above.
- Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the Red Sea’s underwater world with snorkeling or diving excursions. The Red Sea is home to some of the world’s most beautiful coral reefs and marine life.
- Desert Safaris: Take a desert safari and experience the stunning landscapes of the Sahara Desert. You can ride a camel, ATV, or jeep and explore the desert’s dunes and rock formations.
- Traditional Food Tours: Sample traditional Egyptian cuisine on a food tour. Try koshari, ful medames, and shawarma, and learn about the country’s culinary traditions.
- Sound and Light Shows: Experience the Pyramids of Giza and other historical sites at night with sound and light shows. These shows use lighting and sound effects to tell the story of the site’s history and significance.
- Hiking and Trekking: Explore Egypt’s natural beauty on a hiking or trekking excursion. You can hike in the Sinai Mountains or trek through the White Desert’s unique rock formations.
- Beaches: Relax on the beautiful beaches along the Red Sea coast. Some popular destinations include Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Dahab.
- Souvenir Shopping: Shop for souvenirs and traditional handicrafts at local markets like the Khan el-Khalili bazaar in Cairo.
These are just a few of the many activities available in Egypt. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature, Egypt offers travelers a wide range of experiences.
Tips for a Successful Trip to Egypt
Egypt is a fascinating and culturally rich country that offers travelers various experiences. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip to Egypt:
- Plan your Itinerary: Egypt is a large country with a lot to see, so it’s essential to plan your itinerary. Decide which cities and sights to visit and how long you want to spend in each place. Make sure to factor in transportation time, and the season you’ll be visiting.
- Be respectful: Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country with a conservative culture, so it’s important to dress modestly and respect local customs. Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting mosques and other religious sites, and remove your shoes before entering.
- Stay hydrated: Egypt can be extremely hot, especially in the summer, so drinking plenty of water is important. Avoid drinking tap water and opt for bottled water instead.
- Be prepared for the sun: The sun in Egypt can be intense, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from harmful UV rays.
- Book with a reputable tour company: If you plan on visiting the pyramids, it’s best to use a reputable tour company to avoid scams and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Try the local cuisine: Egyptian cuisine is delicious and diverse, with koshari, falafel, and ful medames. Feel free to try new things and immerse yourself in the local culture.
- Learn a few Arabic phrases: While many Egyptians speak English, learning a few Arabic words can go a long way in showing respect and connecting with locals.
- Be mindful of your belongings: Egypt is generally safe for tourists, but it’s essential to be aware of your belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.
- Respect photography rules: Some sights in Egypt, such as the inside of some mosques and the Valley of the Kings, do not allow photography. Respect these rules and ask permission before taking photos in other areas.
- Enjoy yourself! Egypt is a beautiful and historic country with a lot to offer. Take the time to soak it all in and enjoy yourself!
By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip to Egypt and make the most of all the country has to offer.
Embarking on an exhilarating 11-day journey through Egypt is a dream come true for any traveler seeking to explore the country’s diverse cultural treasures, ancient wonders, and natural beauty. From the awe-inspiring pyramids of Giza to the temples of Luxor, the bustling markets of Aswan, and the tranquil shores of the Red Sea, every day brings a new adventure. Amidst this whirlwind of experiences, choosing the Best Hotels in Cairo for your accommodations becomes paramount, ensuring a restful and rejuvenating night’s sleep before each day’s exploration in this captivating land of history and mystique.
Conclusion
Egypt is a land of ancient wonders and modern marvels, with something to offer everyone. From the iconic Pyramids of Giza to the bustling city of Cairo, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this fascinating country.
If you’re planning an 11-day trip to Egypt, you’ll be able to see all of the highlights and still have time to relax and enjoy yourself.
Be sure to include the following must-see attractions on your itinerary:
- The Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
- The Egyptian Museum
- The Citadel of Saladin
- The Karnak Temple
- The Valley of the Kings
- The Temple of Hatshepsut
- The Colossi of Memnon
- The Temple of Philae
- The Aswan High Dam
- The Abu Simbel temples
- The White Desert
- The Bahariya Oasis
In addition to these must-see attractions, be sure to sample some of the delicious Egyptian cuisine, visit some of the bustling local markets, and learn about the country’s rich history and culture.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable travel experience, book your trip to Egypt today! With its ancient wonders, modern marvels, and friendly people, Egypt is a country that will stay with you long after your trip is over.
Here are some additional tips for planning your 11-day trip to Egypt:
- Book your flights and accommodation in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.
- Purchase a travel insurance policy to protect yourself against unexpected events.
- Pack light, but bring comfortable shoes and clothing that you can layer.
- Learn a few basic Arabic phrases.
- Be prepared for hot weather, especially when traveling during the summer months.
- Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
- Be respectful of the local culture and customs.
With a little planning, you will surely have an amazing trip to Egypt!
