Egyptian Travels and Treasures in 7 Days

After (more than likely) over 24 hours of travel, a day trip out to the Red Sea will be a perfect way to recoup. The trip from Cairo is about 2 hours by car.

• Relax on the beach before sailing into open water with a tour guide.

• Try your hand at snorkeling and enjoy local seafood.

The iconic Pyramids of Giza are a world wonder and the thing people know most about Egypt! Expect tour buses! The ticketing window is situated at the front for easy access.

Once inside, you will find local guides offering to give you a ride (either horseback, buggy, or camel) up to the pyramid bases. You can also walk the road; however, I would strongly recommend taking a ride up there. The road is much steeper and longer than it looks. Walking back is much more manageable.

Things to note

• The three pyramids might not all be open the day you travel, depending on outside weather/temperature and scheduled restorations.

• Typically, the largest pyramid—Pharaoh Khufu—is always open. Next to it, the pyramid of Queen Henutsen is, too.

• For the Queen’s Pyramid, you will need to travel the ladder straight down. You will turn around to face the ladder and take one step at a time. This is for safety!

• In contrast, Khufu’s pyramid will take you up a ladder. For safety reasons, I will caution against people with health issues making this trip. There is no quick way in or out.

To get the most out of a day trip to Alexandria, you should visit four places, all within reasonable reach. They are: the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, the Alexandria Ancient Roman Theater, the Citadel of Qaitbay and the ruins of the Lighthouse of Alexandria, and the contemporary Library of Alexandria.

• Catacombs: The Catacombs are a fantastic archeological site that blends Roman, Greek, and Egyptian architecture and design. There are three levels of tombs that are accessed through a spiral stairway in the middle. Wear closed-toe shoes!

• Ancient Roman Theater: The Ancient Roman Theater showcases Roman architecture heavily influenced by the Greeks. It was a public center that offered community places for plays, music, and learning. Bonus: when standing in the middle of the stone theatre, you can hear yourself echo!

• Citadel of Qaitbay: The Citadel of Qaitbay was built on the site of the ancient Library of Alexandria. The remaining ruins are preserved within the structure. If going in the afternoon, wear sunscreen. The views from the top are magical, but the sun can be hot on your skin.

• Library of Alexandria: Finally, finish off at the contemporary Library of Alexandria. This modern marvel houses the largest open-air reading area in the world. The library also includes small exhibits with Egyptian artifacts and art.

Squarra

Located about 30 minutes from Cairo, Squarra is home to a large burial complex with several gems, including the famous Step Pyramid, the Serapeum of Saqqara, and tombs.

• The tombs here are amazing. Compared to the other pyramids, these are mind-blowing with adorned walls, passageways, and different chambers.

• The Serapeum of Saqqara is a true archaeological mystery, featuring enormous sarcophagi meant for bulls, buried deep underground.

• Finally, the step pyramid.

Khan El Khalil

After the day trip is over, check out Khan El Khalil, one of the oldest bazaars in Egypt! It’s vibrant and lively. Admire the Islamic architecture, grab some delicious treats, and meet local shopkeepers.

If you are interested in traveling to Luxor without boarding another plane, consider taking an overnight train! The train leaves around 10 pm, meaning the rest of the day can be spent relaxing and preparing for the ride. The journey is about 10 hours, arriving around 8 am.

• Important note: The Cairo train station is very busy. I would recommend getting there early, and please note that people will try to guide you for a fee. Just ignore them, or expect to pay them.

Once you are on the train platform, you will most likely be ushered into an area with other travelers by security. I found that this is just another way to protect you.

The train is such an experience! Sleeper cars include a "convertible" bunk bed, bedding sets, dinner, breakfast, outlets, and a toiletry sink.

The ride is rickety, but it’s so fun if you are up for the adventure!

Both the Karnak and Luxor Temples are marvels of the ancient world, and not far from each other.

Spend time adventuring through over 4,000 years of history. You won’t believe how tall some of the columns are! Karnak is also where you will find the famous obelisk. Both temples are adorned with rows of sphinxes leading to their entrances. Take note of how many are still intact.

After the sun sets, take a dinner cruise on a fulecca. Enjoy the cool desert air while eating local cuisine!

Hot air balloon experience

One of the most unique experiences you may have is a hot air balloon ride at dawn over Luxor. I never knew this was on my bucket list until I experienced it.

You will start early in the morning, while it is still dark out. The company will coordinate transport to the airfield. The ride is about an hour long, 15 mins up, 30 mins there, 15 mins down. The operator will give you clear instructions to touch back down safely.

Valley of the Kings

• Going to the Valley of the Kings in the morning is the best bet to beat the hot Egyptian sun.

• Wear closed-toe shoes. Most of the pathway is dirt or gravel.

• The Valley is an active dig site, so not all tombs will be open.

• Lines will form for some of the bigger ones—the smaller ones are just as great! Check as many out as you feel like!

Temple of Hatshepsut

The Temple of Hatshepsut is another site that will be entirely in the sun, so avoid going in the direct light. The hill is a substantial climb, but includes stairs and ramps. It will likely be busy, so pull to the side of the building for some unobstructed photos.