Egypt is more than just "all inclusive" and the turquoise Red Sea. It is the world's largest open-air museum. While planning your holiday in Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh, be sure to leave time for the heritage of the pharaohs and for the natural reserves.
In this article we cover the most popular excursions in Egypt that everyone should consider.
Top 5 destinations: from pyramids to coral reefs
The choice of excursions depends on your resort, but there is a "gold standard" available to most travellers.
1. The Great Pyramids of Giza and Cairo
The country's calling card. The trip to the capital lets you see the only surviving wonder of the world and the treasures of Tutankhamun in the Egyptian National Museum.
- For whom: History and antiquity lovers.
- What's included: Pyramids, Sphinx, lunch, museum visit.
2. Luxor — the City of the Living and the Dead
Luxor is considered the largest open-air museum in the world. The density of monuments per square metre is off the charts.
- Main sites: Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple and the Colossi of Memnon.
3. Sea trips and the Ras Mohammed reserve
If you're staying in Sharm El Sheikh, this one is a must. Incredible coral gardens and rare fish species await you.
- Popular formats: Yacht trips, diving, snorkelling, a trip to Utopia Island (from Hurghada).
4. Quad-bike safari in the desert
Adrenaline and the colour of Bedouin villages. The best time is sunset, when the desert turns gold.
- Includes: Sand racing, tea with the Bedouins, a camel ride.
5. Mount Moses and St Catherine's Monastery
A spiritual journey to the Sinai Peninsula. Pilgrims traditionally make a night-time ascent to greet the sunrise from the summit.
Comparison of excursions from different cities
| Parameter |
From Hurghada |
From Sharm El Sheikh |
| Distance to Luxor |
Close (~4 hours) |
Far (flight required) |
| Distance to Cairo |
Medium (~6 hours) |
Medium (~7 hours) |
| Sea tours |
Giftun Islands, Utopia |
Ras Mohammed, Tiran Island |
| Unique highlights |
Dendera, Abydos |
Coloured Canyon, St Catherine's Monastery |
Useful tips before booking
To make sure your excursions in Egypt bring only joy, follow these rules:
- Bring warm clothes. If you go to Cairo or on a safari in winter/spring, remember it can be cold in the desert and on air-conditioned buses.
- Book in advance. Online booking is often 20–30% cheaper than buying the same tour at the hotel from a guide.
- Dress code. When visiting temples and mosques shoulders and knees should be covered.
How much do excursions in Egypt cost?
Prices vary depending on the season and group composition:
- Group tours: from \$25 (sea trips) to \$80 (Cairo / Luxor).
- Private tours: from \$150 per car / guide.
Want a route tailored to your budget? Tell us which city you'll be staying in and we'll put together a personalised list of prices and locations for you.
