Egypt, a land of ancient wonders and modern marvels, offers diverse travel experiences catering to both luxury seekers and budget-conscious adventurers. From opulent Nile cruises to backpacker-friendly hostels, the country provides a spectrum of options for exploring its iconic landmarks and rich cultural heritage.

Luxury Nile River Cruises

Felucca and Nile cruise boat moored at Aswan

Luxury Nile River cruises offer an unparalleled way to experience Egypt’s ancient wonders in opulent comfort. These high-end voyages typically feature 5-star accommodations, gourmet dining, and exclusive amenities like spas, swimming pools, and sun decks with panoramic views

12. Passengers can expect elegant cabins with private balconies, personalized service, and expert-led excursions to iconic sites such as the Valley of the Kings, Luxor Temple, and Abu Simbel34.

  • Most luxury cruises sail between Luxor and Aswan, lasting 3-7 nights14
  • Ships often include features like French balconies, on-board spas, and gourmet restaurants12
  • Guided tours led by Egyptologists are typically included in luxury packages35
  • Some cruises offer unique experiences like traditional dance performances or visits to less-frequented sites26

Budget-Friendly Egyptian Street Food

Koshari, Egypt's favorite street food, served at home

Egyptian street food offers a delicious and affordable way to experience the country’s culinary traditions. Ful medames, a staple dish made from mashed fava beans, is widely available and costs just a few Egyptian pounds for a sandwich1. Tamiya, the Egyptian version of falafel, is another popular and inexpensive option, often served in sandwiches for just a few pounds1.

  • Kushari, a hearty mix of rice, lentils, and pasta with spicy tomato sauce, is a filling meal for 5-10 EGP ($0.84-$1.68)1
  • Shawarma sandwiches, made with shaved meat and wrapped in flatbread, cost around 7 EGP ($1.18)1
  • For dessert, try basbousa, a sweet semolina cake, which can be found for 5-10 EGP ($0.84-$1.68) for a plate of mixed Egyptian sweets1
  • Street vendors also offer fresh fruit juices and drinks like pomegranate shakes for 2-4 EGP ($0.34-$0.68)1

Exclusive Access to Ancient Sites

For a unique and adventurous way to experience Egypt’s ancient wonders, horseback riding tours offered by iRide Egypt provide an unforgettable journey. These tours allow visitors to explore iconic sites like the Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx from a different perspective, combining history with horsemanship1.
Guided rides available for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced riders
Rides last about 3 hours and include photo stops with the pyramids
Morning rides at Giza and sunset rides at Saqqara show the monuments in their best light
Arabian horses are well-trained and suitable for riders of various abilities
Rides start from $59 per person, with extras such as an Arabian horse or a photographer1
iRide Egypt emphasizes safety and provides helmets and basic riding instructions before each tour. The company also offers longer desert treks for more adventurous riders, allowing guests to experience the vast Egyptian desert landscape beyond the pyramids1.