how much is a trip to egypt
vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, has long captivated travelers. From the pyramids of Giza to the Nile River’s serene beauty, this North African gem offers a unique blend of history and adventure. However, planning a trip to Egypt requires careful budgeting. This article breaks down the costs of visiting Egypt, including flights, accommodation, food, transportation, and activities, to help you plan an unforgettable journey.
Factors Influencing the Cost of a Trip to EgyptYour total expenses depend on several variables:
- Travel Season: Peak tourist seasons (October–April) mean higher prices for flights and hotels. Summer (May–September) offers discounts but comes with intense heat.
- Travel Style: Budget backpackers can survive on 30–30–50/day, while mid-range travelers may spend 80–80–150/day. Luxury trips (5-star hotels, private guides) start at $250+/day.
- Duration: A 7–10 day trip is ideal for covering major highlights.
- Group Size: Solo travel can be pricier, while group tours or family trips may reduce per-person costs
Breakdown of Expenses1. FlightsInternational flights are often the largest expense. Round-trip tickets from the U.S. or Europe range from
500–500–1,200, depending on the season and airline. Use fare comparison tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner to track deals. From the Middle East or Africa, flights can drop to
200–200–400.
2. AccommodationEgypt offers options for every budget:
- Budget: Hostels and guesthouses cost 10–10–20/night (e.g., Cairo’s Dahab Hostel).
- Mid-Range: 3–4 star hotels average 40–40–100/night (e.g., Steigenberger Hotel Cairo).
- Luxury: 5-star resorts (like the Marriott Mena House in Giza) start at 150–150–400/night.
Pro Tip: Booking platforms like Booking.com often feature discounts for longer stays.
3. Food and DrinksEgyptian cuisine is affordable and flavorful:
- Street Food: Falafel, koshari, or shawarma cost 1–1–3/meal.
- Local Restaurants: A hearty meal with drinks runs 5–5–10/person.
- Upscale Dining: Fine dining in cities like Cairo or Luxor averages 20–20–50/person.
Don’t Miss: Traditional dishes like molokhia (jute leaf stew) and konafa (sweet pastry).
4. Transportation
- Domestic Flights: Cairo to Luxor or Aswan costs 60–60–120 one-way.
- Trains: Overnight sleeper trains (Cairo to Luxor) range 50–50–80. Standard seats are cheaper (10–10–20).
- Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Uber and Careem are safe and affordable. A 30-minute ride in Cairo costs 3–3–7.
- Nile Cruises: A 3–4 night cruise (Luxor to Aswan) starts at 300–300–1,000, depending on luxury level.
5. Activities and Sightseeing
- Entrance Fees: Major sites like the Pyramids of Giza (10∗∗),ValleyoftheKings(∗∗10∗∗),ValleyoftheKings(∗∗15), and Abu Simbel ($20) have tiered pricing (higher for non-Egyptians).
- Guided Tours: Full-day tours with a private guide cost 50–50–150/day. Group tours are cheaper (20–20–40).
- Snorkeling/Diving: Red Sea trips from Hurghada or Sharm El-Sheikh start at 30–30–100.
6. Miscellaneous Costs
- Visa: A 30-day tourist visa costs $25 (available on arrival for many nationalities).
- Travel Insurance: 30–30–100 depending on coverage.
- Souvenirs: Papyrus art, spices, or alabaster statues range 5–5–50.
- Tips (Baksheesh): Small tips (1–1–2) are expected for guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
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Sample Budget for a 7-Day Trip CategoryBudget TravelerMid-Range TravelerLuxury TravelerFlights$600$800$1,200Accommodation$70$350$1,400Food$50$150$300Transportation$50$150$400Activities$100$250$600Miscellaneous$30$80$200
Total$900$1,780$4,100 Money-Saving Tips
- Travel Off-Season: Visit in summer for hotel discounts (up to 50% off).
- Use Public Transport: Buses and minibuses are cheaper than taxis.
- Bargain Respectfully: Haggling is common in markets like Khan El Khalili.
- Book Combo Tickets: Some sites offer discounted group entries.
- Eat Local: Avoid touristy restaurants near major attractions.
Is Egypt Safe for Tourists?Egypt is generally safe, but stay vigilant in crowded areas. Petty theft can occur, so keep valuables secure. Respect local customs (dress modestly, avoid public displays of affection) to avoid unwanted attention.
Final ThoughtsA trip to Egypt is a journey through time, offering unparalleled historical treasures and natural beauty. While costs vary, careful planning ensures an affordable and enriching experience. Whether you’re marveling at the Sphinx, sailing the Nile, or diving in the Red Sea, Egypt promises memories that transcend price tags. With this guide, you’re ready to embark on an adventure that balances budget and wonder.