Day 1: Arrival in Cairo
Your Egypt itinerary begins in Cairo. As the capital of the country and one of the most populous cities in Africa, it is a hub of cultural richness. On your first day, you might want to explore the Egyptian Museum. Here, you’ll find the world’s most extensive collection of pharaonic antiquities, including the gold treasures of Tutankhamen.
Day 2: Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
Your second day in Egypt should undoubtedly include a visit to the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. The largest of these, the Great Pyramid, is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It’s also the only one to remain largely intact, over 4,000 years after it was built.
Day 3: Saqqara and Memphis
Your third day might be spent exploring Saqqara, one of Egypt’s most extensive archaeological sites. Is home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser and countless tombs of ancient officials. In nearby Memphis, Egypt’s ancient capital, you can see the colossal statue of Ramses II.
Day 4: Islamic Cairo
Day four can be spent immersing oneself in the hustle and bustle of Islamic Cairo. Noteworthy sites here include the medieval Qalawoun complex, with its mosque, madrasa, and mausoleum, and the bustling market of Khan el-Khalili.
Day 5: Luxor
Your fifth day should be spent traveling to Luxor, a UNESCO World Heritage site once known as Thebes. Luxor is home to the world-renowned Valley of the Kings, where Tutankhamun’s tomb was discovered. It also features the magnificent temples of Karnak and Luxor.
Day 6: Valley of the Kings
Your sixth day might involve a journey into the arid, rocky landscape of the Valley of the Kings. The tombs of several New Kingdom pharaohs, including Tutankhamun and Ramses II, were discovered here. Some tombs are open for the public to explore, a fascinating adventure into ancient history.
Day 7: Aswan
Your seventh day in Egypt can see you traveling south to Aswan. Here you’ll discover legendary Philae Temple dedicated to the goddess Isis, and the High Dam, an engineering marvel that controls the Nile’s flooding and produces power.
Day 8: Nile Cruise
Day eight is reserved for one of the most timeless experiences Egypt has to offer – a leisurely boat cruise along the Nile. This way, you get to see local life along the world’s longest river, passing Nubian villages, fishermen, and herds of cattle.
Day 9: Exploring Ancient Temples
Day nine could be dedicated to exploring the ancient temples along the Nile, like Kom Ombo and Edfu. Both are dedicated to Egyptian gods and feature fantastic architecture, inscriptions, and carved reliefs.
Day 10: Alexandria
You might opt to spend day ten in Alexandria. Here you can stroll along the well-known Mediterranean corniche, visit Pompey’s Pillar or the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa – often considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages.
From the antiquities of Cairo to the temples of Luxor and the landscapes of Aswan, your itinerary offers a compelling glimpse into Egypt’s rich historical and cultural tapestry. Remember, travel is a privilege. Make the most of your time in Egypt, learn about its rich history and respect its ancient monuments.
