Egypt Travel Itinerary…ah, when we search this there are millions of articles. Egypt is a country where ancient wonders meet bustling modern cities, where golden deserts contrast with the lush Nile River, and where every traveler can find an adventure suited to their style. Whether you’re a budget backpacker, a mid-range traveler, or someone seeking a luxury experience, this guide will help you explore Egypt efficiently while also considering what to wear and where to capture the best photos. Yes, that’s right – this is also a fashion and photography guide, kind of haha.
I visited Egypt during the winter (February 2023), and wore an abaya with sweatpants underneath. Not the most fashionable, but it was perfect for riding around on a camel.
Table of Contents
Egypt Travel Itinerary – Week 1: Cairo & the Surroundings
Day 1-3: Cairo
Highlights:
- The Pyramids of Giza & Sphinx
- Saqqara & Dahshur
- Egyptian Museum
- Islamic Cairo (Khan el-Khalili, Al-Azhar Mosque, Sultan Hassan Mosque)
- Cairo Tower for a city panorama
- Evening felucca ride on the Nile
Where to Stay:
- Budget: Wake Up! Cairo Hostel
- Mid-range: Steigenberger Hotel
- Luxury: The St. Regis Cairo
What to Wear:
- For pyramid visits: Flowy linen pants, a lightweight blouse, and comfortable sandals.
- Exploring mosques: Long, loose-fitting trousers or a maxi dress with a scarf for coverage.
Best Photo Spots:
- The classic pyramid shot from the panoramic viewpoint
- Overlooking the city at Cairo Tower
- The intricate alleyways of Khan el-Khalili
Day 4-5: Alexandria
Highlights:
- Bibliotheca Alexandrina
- Qaitbay Citadel
- Montaza Palace Gardens
- Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa
Where to Stay:
- Budget: Acropole Hotel
- Mid-range: Paradise Inn Windsor Palace Hotel
- Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria
What to Wear:
- Coastal vibes: A linen jumpsuit or culottes with a breezy top.
Best Photo Spots:
- The Mediterranean backdrop at Qaitbay Citadel
- Sunsets at Montaza Palace
If you are interested in the fashion or beauty side of travelling, I also write about that! The links are at the end of the article.
Egypt Travel Itinerary – Week 2: Luxor & Aswan
Day 6-9: Luxor
Highlights:
- Karnak & Luxor Temples
- Valley of the Kings
- Hatshepsut’s Temple
- Hot air balloon ride at sunrise
- Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan
Where to Stay:
- Budget: Nefertiti Hotel
- Mid-range: Steigenberger Nile Palace
- Luxury: Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor
What to Wear:
- Loose maxi dresses, cotton tops with linen pants.
- Neutral tones blend beautifully with the sandstone temples.
Best Photo Spots:
- Karnak Temple’s hypostyle hall
- Sunrise views from the hot air balloon
- The grand entrance of Hatshepsut’s Temple
Day 10-13: Aswan & Abu Simbel
Highlights:
- Philae Temple
- Nubian Village
- Abu Simbel (day trip)
- Felucca ride to Elephantine Island
- Unfinished Obelisk
Where to Stay:
- Budget: Ekadolli Nubian Guesthouse
- Mid-range: Citymax Hotel Aswan
- Luxury: Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan
What to Wear:
- A cotton sundress or a matching co-ord set in earthy tones.
Best Photo Spots:
- The colorful houses in the Nubian Village
- Abu Simbel’s colossal statues at sunrise
I was so lucky to be alone at the salt lakes in Siwa. Remember to wear some rubber shoes as the salt really cuts your feet!
Egypt Travel Itinerary – Week 3: The Red Sea, the Desert & Siwa
Day 14-16: Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh
Highlights:
- Snorkeling or diving in the Red Sea
- Day trip to Giftun Island (Hurghada) or Ras Mohammed National Park (Sharm)
- Beach relaxation & sunset walks
Where to Stay:
- Budget: Hostels and beach bungalows
- Mid-range: Marriott Hurghada or Sultan Gardens Resort
- Luxury: The Oberoi Beach Resort, Sahl Hasheesh
What to Wear:
- A chic one-piece swimsuit with a linen cover-up.
Best Photo Spots:
- The coral reefs for underwater shots
- White sandy beaches with turquoise waters
Day 17-18: White Desert & Bahariya Oasis
Highlights:
- Camping under the stars in the White Desert
- Exploring Crystal Mountain
- Jeep safari across the dunes
What to Wear:
- Lightweight, long-sleeve tops to protect from the sun.
- Neutral-toned outfits for desert aesthetics.
Best Photo Spots:
- White rock formations at sunrise and sunset
- The vast golden dunes
Day 19-21: Siwa Oasis
Highlights:
- The Oracle Temple of Amun
- Cleopatra’s Spring
- Shali Fortress
- Salt Lakes
- Great Sand Sea desert safari
Where to Stay:
- Budget: Kenouz Shali Lodge
- Mid-range: Albabenshal Lodge
- Luxury: Adrère Amellal Eco-Lodge
What to Wear:
- A lightweight kaftan or loose linen dress for the oasis.
- Earth-toned outfits for blending with the desert scenery.
Best Photo Spots:
- Floating in the Salt Lakes’ crystal-clear water
- The golden sunset over the Great Sand Sea
- The ruins of Shali Fortress at dusk
Located in Siwa, there’s a pottery school. Ask around when you are there, as it is beautiful to visit and a good place to buy some gifts.
Packing Tips for Egypt
- Breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are ideal.
- Comfortable walking shoes for temple visits.
- A scarf or shawl for mosque visits and sun protection.
- Swimwear for the Red Sea and Siwa Oasis.
- Neutral tones for aesthetic travel photography.
Final Thoughts
Egypt is a mesmerizing blend of history, culture, and natural wonders. Whether you’re sailing the Nile, diving in the Red Sea, exploring the sands of the White Desert, or relaxing in the serene beauty of Siwa Oasis, this itinerary ensures an unforgettable experience while keeping your fashion choices stylish and practical.
Would you add anything to this itinerary? Let me know in the comments!
I write a lot of similar content about other countries, so if you are interested – check it out!
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https://blumulberry.com/category/beauty
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Comment:
Hello,
I recently came across your Ultimate Egypt Travel Itinerary and I
must say, it’s incredibly comprehensive and well-thought-out.
I especially appreciate the inclusion of fashion and photography
tips, which are often overlooked in travel guides.
I visited Egypt last year and followed a somewhat similar itinerary.
I can personally vouch for the magic of the pyramids, the grandeur of Luxor, and the tranquility of the Red Sea.
However, I wish I had known about the Nubian Village in Aswan before my trip.
It sounds like a unique and colorful experience that I missed out on.
Your guide has inspired me to plan another trip to Egypt, this time with your fashion and photography
tips in mind. I love the idea of neutral tones blending with the
sandstone temples and desert landscapes for aesthetic travel photography.
I would also suggest adding a visit to the Egyptian Bazaars,
especially Khan El-Khalili in Cairo. They’re a great place to pick up unique souvenirs and
experience the local culture.
Thank you for sharing this wonderful guide.
I’m looking forward to exploring Egypt again with your tips in mind.
Best,
Demetria