Egypt Itinerary

5 Days Egypt Itinerary for First-time Visitors

Indian tourists can easily apply for an Egypt e-visa online for short stays of up to 30 days. Two types of e-visas are available: a single-entry visa, which allows one entry and is valid for 90 days, and a multiple-entry visa, which permits several entries within 6 months. The application process is simple and can be completed up to 15 days before your trip, making it convenient for Indian travellers to plan their visit to Egypt.

Once you have your visa ready, pack light with sun protection, comfortable footwear, and a camera to capture Egypt's iconic sights.

Let's explore this Egypt trip itinerary, starting in Cairo!

• Day 1: Cairo – Welcoming Wonders

  Step into the vibrant city of Cairo, where history and culture converge. Today, you’ll explore iconic sites, beginning with the awe-inspiring Great Pyramids and Sphinx, followed by a visit to the famed Egyptian Museum.

  Morning

  Arrive at Cairo International Airport and transfer to your hotel. After checking in, head to the Giza Plateau, home to the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx.

  Afternoon

  Visit the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, where you can admire an incredible collection of over 120,000 ancient artefacts. One of the museum's highlights is the treasures of King Tutankhamun.

  Evening

  Enjoy a traditional Egyptian dinner at a local restaurant in Cairo. Take in the vibrant atmosphere and taste Egypt’s culinary delights.

• Day 2: Cairo – Dahshur, Memphis & Saqqara

  Embark on a journey through ancient history, visiting the quieter yet fascinating pyramids of Dahshur, the first capital of Memphis, and the world’s first stone structure at Saqqara. These sites provide insights into the evolution of pyramid building.

  Morning

  Begin the day with a visit to the Red and Bent Pyramids at Dahshur, which offer a different perspective on pyramid architecture. These lesser-known sites provide a quieter but equally fascinating experience compared to Giza.

  Afternoon

  Continue your tour to Memphis, the first capital of ancient Egypt, and then to the Step Pyramid of Djoser at Saqqara, the earliest colossal stone structure ever built.

  Evening

  Enjoy a relaxing evening in Cairo. Visit a café near the Nile and enjoy the views while sipping a traditional mint tea.

• Day 3: Cairo – Islamic and Coptic Cairo

  Today’s journey will take you from the iconic Citadel to the spiritual heart of Coptic Cairo, along with bustling souks and historic landmarks.

  Morning

  Start with a visit to the Citadel of Salah El Din, a medieval Islamic fortification, followed by the impressive Mohamed Ali Mosque, also known as the Alabaster Mosque. Its grandeur and panoramic views of Cairo are not to be missed.

  Afternoon

  Head to Coptic Cairo, where you’ll visit the Hanging Church, Ben Ezra Synagogue, and other significant sites. Take time to appreciate the deep-rooted Christian history of this area.

  Evening

  End the day exploring the bustling Khan El Khalili Bazaar. Bargain for souvenirs, try street food, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere of this historic market.

• Day 4: Aswan – High Dam and Philae Temple

  Venture southward to the beautiful city of Aswan, known for its mix of modern marvels and ancient wonders.

  Morning

  Take an early morning flight from Cairo to Aswan. Upon arrival, visit the Aswan High Dam, a modern engineering marvel that changed Egypt's landscape. Continue to Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddesses Isis and Hathor. It is accessible by boat.

  Afternoon

  Check into your hotel in Aswan. After settling in, take a stroll along the Nile Corniche, enjoying the scenic views.

  Evening

  Relax with dinner at a riverside restaurant, where you can enjoy local dishes while watching feluccas sail along the Nile.

• Day 5: Abu Simbel – Monumental Grandeur

  Conclude your Egyptian adventure with a trip to the colossal temples of Abu Simbel.

  Morning

  Set off early for a guided tour of the Abu Simbel Temples, located near the border with Sudan. The massive temples were carved out of a mountainside during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II and are known for their stunning facade and well-preserved interior.

  Afternoon

  Return to Aswan and spend some time visiting the Nubian villages. Experience the unique culture and traditions of the Nubian people, including their distinctive architecture and art.

  Evening

  End your Egyptian journey with a farewell dinner, reflecting on your adventure through the wonders of ancient history and vibrant local culture.

FAQs

• Q1: How can I travel between cities like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan?

  Ans: You can travel between major cities using domestic flights, overnight trains, or a Nile cruise. Flights are the quickest, while the train offers a unique experience.

• Q2: Is it necessary to book tickets for attractions in advance in Egypt?

  Ans: Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but is recommended for popular attractions like the Pyramids, Abu Simbel, and the Egyptian Museum to avoid long waiting times.

• Q3: Can I visit Egypt independently, or is a guided tour better?

  Ans: While it is possible to visit independently, a guided tour helps make the most of your trip by providing historical context and navigating the complexities of transportation and ticketing.

• Q4: Can I take pictures of all the historical sites in Egypt?

  Ans: Photography is allowed at most sites. Some areas, like inside tombs and the Egyptian Museum's Mummy Room, may require additional fees or prohibit photography entirely.

• Q5: What is the best way for Indian tourists to communicate in Egypt?

  Ans: English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases for greetings or directions can be helpful and appreciated by locals.