The best program to visit Egypt for 14 days – The itinerary of the trip to Egypt for two weeks –Activ Egypt

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Discover Activ Egypt: Top Things to Do in Hurghada and an Ideal Two-Week Egypt Itinerary

Planning Your Egypt Trip?
Are you eager to explore Egypt but unsure where to begin? Look no further. Our comprehensive travel guide is your perfect starting point, providing step-by-step recommendations for an unforgettable journey across Egypt.

Where to Start Your Egypt Adventure
Egypt, with its rich history and Pharaonic civilization, is a land of wonders waiting to be explored. From the vibrant streets of Cairo to the iconic monuments along the Nile, we’ll help you uncover the most famous and awe-inspiring attractions in Egypt over two weeks.

Day 1: Arrival in Cairo

Your Egyptian adventure begins as you land at Cairo Airport.

Top Evening Activity in Cairo:
For a unique experience, book a private guided night tour. This tour lets you explore Cairo as the locals do, offering insights into the city’s authentic charm. Begin your evening by visiting Mokattam Hills, the highest point in Cairo, for panoramic views of the city at sunset. From here, you can take in the beauty of the city’s mosques, churches, schools, and universities.

Afterward, visit Islamic Cairo and the famous Khan El Khalili Bazaar, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant market culture.

Stay Near the Pyramids:
For a truly unforgettable experience, book accommodation near the Pyramids of Giza and the Grand Egyptian Museum, allowing you to wake up to views of these ancient wonders.

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One of the best evening activities to do in Cairo is to take a private guided night tour. This amazing private night tour allows you to see the local folk Cairo as one of its locals. It is possible to go to the Mokattam Hills in Cairo, the highest place where you can see the beauty of the whole city of Cairo, its mosques, churches, schools and universities. It’s a great place to watch Cairo at sunset. You will also visit Islamic Cairo and Khan El Khalili. Possible to stay in a hotel near the pyramids and the Grand Egyptian Museum – Activ Egypt 

Day 2: Discover the civilization of the Egyptian pharaohs in Cairo

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Day 2: Explore the Wonders of Ancient Egyptian Civilization in Cairo

Morning: The Egyptian Museum of Antiquities

Start your second day by diving into Egypt’s rich history at the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities in Cairo.

• World-Class Artifacts: This museum houses over 250,000 original artifacts, some dating back more than 5,000 years, making it one of the most important collections globally. It is home to priceless treasures from the reign of the Pharaohs, including the famous Tutankhamun exhibit.
• Historical Significance: Located in Tahrir Square, the museum is close to where the 2011 Egyptian Revolution began. However, there’s more to look forward to as the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza is set to open at the end of 2020. Don’t miss this next iconic museum for an even deeper dive into Egypt’s ancient past.

Afternoon: Citadel of Cairo and Islamic Cairo

After exploring the Egyptian Museum, head towards the Citadel of Cairo, a monumental site that dates back to the 12th century.

• Sultan Salah El-Din Citadel: Explore the impressive Sultan Salah El-Din Citadel, a historical fortress offering stunning views of Cairo. Inside, you’ll find beautiful mosques, including the renowned Mosque of Sultan Hassan.
• Islamic Cairo: Next, venture through Islamic Cairo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through the vibrant streets, passing historic schools, mosques, and other architectural gems that showcase the Islamic influence on the city.

End your afternoon by returning to your hotel for a well-deserved rest, soaking in all the cultural experiences of the day.

This version is designed to be SEO-friendly by integrating keywords such as Egyptian Museum, Sultan Salah El-Din Citadel, Islamic Cairo, and Grand Egyptian Museum. It offers a detailed yet concise itinerary for the day, making it easier for search engines to index the page while providing readers with an engaging travel experience.

Day 3: Visit the Majestic Pyramids of Giza

Your Egyptian adventure continues with a trip to the Pyramids of Giza, just 20 minutes from Cairo’s city center.

• The Great Pyramids: These iconic pyramids are one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and a must-see for anyone visiting Egypt. Marvel at the Great Pyramid of Giza, built for the Pharaoh Khufu, and explore the smaller Pyramids of Khafre and Menkaure.
• The Sphinx: Don’t forget to take in the breathtaking Great Sphinx, a massive limestone statue with the body of a lion and the head of a Pharaoh, standing guard over the pyramids.
• Additional Sites: Ask your guide to take you to Djoser’s Step Pyramid and the Mastaba of Mereruka in Saqqara. Explore the ancient capital of Memphis to see its vast open-air museum.
• Return to Cairo: After exploring the Pyramids of Giza, head back to Cairo to visit Coptic Cairo, the Museum of Islamic Art, or the Nilometer.

Day 4: Explore the Legendary City of Alexandria

Take a day trip to Alexandria, a city with a rich history dating back to the ancient world.

• Top Attractions:
  • Royal Jewelry Museum
  • Alexandria National Museum
  • Stanley Bridge
  • Corniche
  • Lighthouse of Alexandria (one of the ancient wonders)
  • Ancient Roman Amphitheater
  • King Farouk Palace
  • Mosque of Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi
• Historical Significance: Once home to the Legendary Library of Alexandria and the Lighthouse of Alexandria, the city retains an aura of ancient glory. While little remains of these wonders today, Alexandria is still a fascinating destination for history lovers.
• Transportation: Travel from Cairo to Alexandria via private car, tourist bus, or even train for a more immersive experience.
• Optional: If you prefer to extend your stay on the Red Sea, skip Alexandria and enjoy more time by the coast.

Day 5: Nile Cruise from Aswan

• Travel to Aswan: After your time in Alexandria, head to Aswan for an unforgettable journey along the Nile River.
• Nile Cruise: Begin your Nile cruise to explore ancient temples and tombs, including the Temple of Philae, the Unfinished Obelisk, and Kom Ombo.
• Relax and Discover: Enjoy stunning views as you float down the Nile, passing by lush landscapes and ancient monuments.

Day 5: Explore Aswan – The Tranquil Gem of Egypt

On the fifth day, you will head to Aswan, located in the far south of Egypt, renowned for its serene beauty and historical significance. There are two options to travel from Cairo to Aswan:

• By Air: Take an early morning flight from Cairo to Aswan for a quick and comfortable journey.
• By Train: Alternatively, you can book a sleeper train for a more economical option, departing from Cairo on the evening of Day 4. This allows you to save on hotel expenses and enjoy a unique train experience.

Upon arriving in Aswan, you can unwind and explore the stunning Nile views.

• Traditional Felucca Ride: Take a peaceful felucca ride to visit Elephantine Island or the Botanical Garden.
• Unfinished Obelisk: If you’re a history buff, visit the Unfinished Obelisk, which offers insight into ancient Egyptian stonework.
• Saint Simon’s Monastery: For a unique adventure, consider a camel ride to the Saint Simon’s Monastery located on the East Bank of Aswan.
• Nubian Villages: Discover the colorful streets of Nubian villages via a river ferry. These picturesque communities are known for their vibrant culture and beautiful handicrafts.
• Dining on the Nile: Enjoy a delicious meal at one of Aswan’s riverboat restaurants while watching traditional dhows sail by on the Nile.

Why Aswan?
Aswan is one of Egypt’s quietest cities, nestled on the banks of the Nile, backed by orange sand dunes. It offers a perfect blend of relaxation, history, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re sailing on the river or relaxing at a local café, Aswan is the place to recharge and soak in the tranquility of Egypt.

• Popular Activities in Aswan:
  • Felucca sunset tour: Sail around the Aswan Islands at sunset for an unforgettable experience.
  • Temple of Philae: Don’t miss visiting the majestic Temple of Philae, located on an island in the Nile.
  • Nile Life: Simply watching the river life pass by is a serene activity in itself.

Day 6: Visit the Ancient Temples of Abu Simbel

The Abu Simbel Temples are one of Egypt’s most iconic archaeological wonders. Here’s how you can visit them:

• How to Get to Abu Simbel:
  • From Aswan: The Abu Simbel Temples are located approximately 280 km south of Aswan, and it takes about 3.5 hours by car. You can take a private car, join a guided tour, or take a bus.
  • From Cairo: If you’re traveling from Cairo, a flight to Aswan followed by a transfer to Abu Simbel is the most efficient way. Alternatively, a longer drive or an overnight train is possible.
• What’s Special About Abu Simbel?
  The Abu Simbel Temples are two massive rock temples built by Ramses II to commemorate his victory at the Battle of Kadesh and honor the gods. The main temple features four colossal statues of Ramses II seated at the entrance, while the smaller temple is dedicated to Queen Nefertari.
  These temples were famously relocated in the 1960s to avoid flooding caused by the Aswan High Dam.

Aswan is a country decorated with temples, but the Abu Simbel temple is something special. This is the great temple of Ramses II, decorated with colossal statues standing outside, and inside it is lavishly decorated with frescoes.
Abu Simbel Temple is perhaps the most famous UNESCO World Heritage Site on the planet. No wonder the relocation of the Temple of Ramses II laid the foundation for the famous organization. There are two ways to reach Abu Simbel: by bus and plane in the afternoon. Sail to Luxor – via the Temple of Kom Ombo and the accompanying settlement site 40 km north of Aswan, the temple is dedicated to the gods Sobek and Horus and dates mainly to the Ptolemaic and Roman periods (332 BC – 395 BC)
Sail to Edfu Overnight in Edfu

-How to get to Abu Simbel from Cairo or even from Aswan to Abu Simbel / It is possible to reach from Cairo to the Abu Simbel temple or even from Aswan to Abu Simbel by plane or the tourist bus. Accommodation in one of the Abu Simbel hotels near the temple

Activ Egypt

Day 7: Visit Edfu Temple and Luxor Temple

Edfu Temple

Location: 40 km north of Aswan, along the Nile.

Dedicated to: Horus, the falcon-headed god.

Significance: Built during the Ptolemaic period (257-337 BC), it is one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt.

Key Features:

Horus Temple: Known for its large, detailed carvings and reliefs.

Mythological Connection: This location is where Horus fought Seth for dominion over the world.

Annual Festival: The temple records celebrations including the carrying of Horus’ statue to the roof to be “refreshed by the sun” on New Year’s Day.

Unique Carvings: The walls showcase the rituals, incense, and perfume recipes, and the festival hall for Horus and Hathor’s encounter.

Kom Ombo Temple

Location: Between Edfu and Aswan, on the Nile’s east bank.

Dedicated to: Horus and Sobek (the crocodile-headed god).

Significance: This dual temple is shared between the two gods, with symmetrical sanctuaries and carvings dedicated to both.

Luxor Temple

Location: In the heart of Luxor, on the Nile’s east bank.

Dedicated to: Amun-Ra, Mut, and Khonsu (Theban Triad).

Key Features:

Columns: The grand entrance is lined with large columns, leading to the temple’s inner sanctuary.

Sphinx Avenue: The approach is lined with statues, a path leading to Karnak Temple.

Best-preserved: Famous for its well-maintained reliefs and impressive monumental structures.

Day 8: West Bank Visit to Luxor and Karnak

West Bank of Luxor:

1. Valley of the Kings
   • Famous For: The Valley of the Kings is the burial site of ancient Egyptian pharaohs. It was originally called the “Great Place of Righteousness.”
   • Key Tombs:
     • Tutankhamun: The most famous tomb, discovered by Howard Carter in 1922.
     • Ramses III and Ramses IX: Notable pharaohs with well-preserved tombs.
     • Merneptah: Another significant burial site in this valley.
   • Entry: An additional ticket is required to enter specific tombs, such as Tutankhamun’s.
2. Temple of Hatshepsut
   • Description: This striking temple is built into the cliffs of the Theban Mountains.
   • Historical Significance:
     • Queen Hatshepsut: The only woman to ever rule as a pharaoh of Egypt.
     • Design: The temple is a three-tiered structure carved into the cliffside, symbolizing the divine role of the queen.
     • Construction: Built during the 18th Dynasty (about 1490-1469 BC) by Hatshepsut, daughter of Thutmose I.
3. Colossi of Memnon
   • Description: These massive statues, standing at 18 meters, are all that remain from the mortuary temple of Amenhotep III.
   • Significance: The statues are famous for the mystical “singing” sound that emanates from them at dawn due to temperature changes (historically thought to be the voice of Memnon).

Karnak Temple (East Bank):

• Location: Situated on the east bank of the Nile in Luxor.
• Dedicated To: Amun-Ra, the chief deity of Egypt, alongside Mut and Khonsu (the Theban Triad).
• Significance: Karnak is not just one temple but a massive complex of temples, obelisks, pylons, and statues. It was the most important religious center in Thebes for over 2,000 years.
  • Hypostyle Hall: One of the most famous sections of the temple, with over 130 massive columns, giving it an awe-inspiring atmosphere.
  • The Great Pylon: The entrance of the temple is marked by huge walls, with elaborate hieroglyphic carvings.
  • Obelisks: There are several towering obelisks, including one from Queen Hatshepsut.
  • Amun’s Festival Hall: A unique feature that records the pharaohs’ relationships with Amun.

Evening Activities:

• Overnight on the Nile Cruise: After your visit to Karnak Temple, return to your cruise ship for an overnight stay in Luxor. This provides an excellent opportunity to relax after a day full of sightseeing and enjoy the calm atmosphere of the Nile.

Day 9: Continue Luxor Exploration

• Luxor Temple: Visit this majestic temple dedicated to Amun-Ra.
  • History: Built by Amenhotep III and completed by King Ramses II.
  • Features: Includes a large open-air courtyard and the famous Avenue of Sphinxes.
  • Military Scenes: Ramses II’s battle of Kadesh is depicted in reliefs on the walls.
• Lunch on Board: Enjoy lunch while continuing your cruise along the Nile before heading to your next destination.

This day offers a comprehensive exploration of Luxor’s key historical sites on both the West Bank (Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, Memnon) and East Bank (Karnak, Luxor Temples), ending with a relaxing overnight stay aboard your cruise.

Day 9: A Wonderful Cruise at Dolphin House in Hurghada

Swimming with Dolphins in the Red Sea

• Location: Dolphin House, Hurghada (Red Sea)
• Experience:
  • Dolphin Watching: The Red Sea, especially around Hurghada and Marsa Alam, is famous for its resident dolphin populations. Weather permitting, dolphins can be seen swimming alongside your boat.
  • Natural Habitat: Unlike confined dolphin pools, this experience allows you to see dolphins in their natural, open-water environment.
  • Snorkeling: Even if dolphins are not around, you can enjoy vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life in the area.

Itinerary for the Day

1. Boat Trip: The day includes a cruise with three stops at prime dolphin watching sites.
2. Lunch: Enjoy a small buffet lunch onboard.
3. Snorkeling: You can snorkel at each stop and explore underwater ecosystems.
4. Diving: For those interested, a diving instructor can be arranged for a trial dive.
5. Return: Return to the pier by late afternoon (around 6:00 PM), then transfer back to your hotel.

Day 10: Diving Adventure in Hurghada

Diving in the Red Sea

• Overview: The Red Sea offers one of the world’s best diving experiences with coral reefs and an abundance of marine life.
• Popular Species: Colorful coral reef fish, sharks, turtles, rays, dolphins, and even dugongs.

Famous Dive Sites:

• Ras Mohammed National Park (Sharm El Sheikh)
• Straits of Tiran (Sharm El Sheikh)
• Gobal Strait, Hamda, Erg reefs (Hurghada)
• Marsa Alam: For the most experienced divers in Egypt.

Diving Experience in Hurghada:

• Itinerary:
  1. Two Diving Stops: Each stop lasts around 20 minutes.
  2. Instructor-led: Experienced instructors guide you through the dive sites.
  3. Snorkeling Option: Non-divers can enjoy snorkeling at the same time.
  4. Lunch: Onboard lunch served between the dives.
  5. Photography: Professional underwater photographer available (extra cost) to capture your experience.

Day 11: Travel to Cairo and Visit Wadi Al-Hitan and Fayoum Governorate

Itinerary for Day 11:

1. Travel to Cairo: Depart from Hurghada and head to Bahariya Oasis (approx. 4 hours).
   • Lunch: Enjoy a local meal in Bahariya.
2. Explore Desert Landscapes: Visit the Black Desert, Al Haiz Valley (natural hot springs), and Crystal Mountain (quartz crystals).
3. White Desert National Park: The stunning desert with wind-sculpted rock formations.
   • Camping: After arriving at White Desert, enjoy dinner and an overnight stay under the stars.

Fayoum Highlights:

• Qarun Lake Reserve: A scenic lake surrounded by natural beauty.
• Wadi El Rayan Reserve: Famous for its waterfalls and wildlife.
• Wadi Al-Hitan: A UNESCO World Heritage site with fossils of ancient whales and prehistoric marine life.

Day 12: Overnight in Wadi El Hitan

Wadi El Hitan (Valley of the Whales):

• Location: Western Sahara Desert, 35 km west of Wadi El Rayan.
• Significance: A UNESCO World Heritage site with 45 million-year-old fossils.
  • Whale Skeletons: Explore fossilized whale bones, shark teeth, and ancient seashells.
  • Fossil & Climate Change Museum: Exhibits displaying the history of the site and its prehistoric life.

Itinerary for Day 12:

• Morning: Breakfast in the desert.
• Visit Museum: Explore the Fossil & Climate Change Museum.
• Lunch: Enjoy lunch and the stunning desert views.
• Sunset: Watch the desert sunset before enjoying a BBQ dinner under the stars.

Day 13: Explore Fayoum and Return to Cairo

Day 13 Highlights:

• Visit Fayoum Oasis: Discover the Magical Lake, Lake Qarun, and Wadi El Rayan.
• Cultural Sites: Explore Pharaonic, Roman, and Coptic monuments around Fayoum.
• Return to Cairo: After a scenic day, head back to Cairo for your next destination.

Day 14: Discover Ancient Pharaonic Cairo

Tour of Old Cairo:

1. Coptic Cairo:
   • Hanging Church
   • Ben Ezra Synagogue
   • St. Barbara Church
   • Abu Serga Church: One of the oldest Coptic churches in Cairo.
2. Khan El Khalili Bazaar:
   • Historic Market: Wander through one of the oldest markets in the Middle East, filled with stalls selling spices, textiles, and souvenirs.
3. Saladin Citadel:
   • Alabaster Mosque: Built by Saladin in 1183 AD as a defense against Crusaders.
   • Muhammad Ali Mosque: A stunning mosque designed by the Turkish architect Yusuf Bushnaq.

This final day in Cairo lets you explore ancient religious sites and wander the bustling markets before ending your epic Egyptian journey.

Touring Egypt: Best Tips and Information

Best Time to Visit Egypt

• Ideal Period: October to April
  • Why: Temperatures are warm but not extreme, making sightseeing and outdoor activities more comfortable.
  • Avoid: June to August, as daytime temperatures regularly exceed 45°C, especially in southern Egypt and at historical sites like Luxor and Aswan.

How to Travel Through Egypt

• Best Mode of Transportation:
  • By Air: The fastest and most convenient way to travel between major cities (e.g., Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Sharm El Sheikh) is by plane.
    • Airlines: EgyptAir (for domestic flights) and Nile Air (limited services between Cairo and other cities).
  • By Train/Bus: Reliable, but time-consuming for long distances.
  • By Boat: Fast boats between Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh offer a quicker and more affordable alternative than flying.
  • Tours: Many tourists prefer guided tours with transportation included, especially for trips from Hurghada to Cairo or Luxor to Aswan.

How Many Days to Spend in Alexandria

• Ideal Duration: 3 Days
  • Day Trip Option: You can visit the major highlights on a day trip from Cairo.
  • Full Exploration: Spend 3 days to fully explore Alexandria’s key sites, including the Library of Alexandria, Citadel of Qaitbay, and the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa.

Nile Cruise: Luxor to Aswan

• Cruise Duration:
  • Luxor to Aswan: 5 days (including sightseeing).
  • Aswan to Luxor: 4 days.
  • Round Trips: Some cruises offer round trips starting and ending at Luxor or Aswan, with the same sightseeing itinerary.
• Best Time for Nile Cruises: October to May
  • During this period, the weather is more pleasant for cruising, as summer temperatures can be too high for comfortable sightseeing.

Nile Cruises from Cairo to Aswan

• Availability:
  • Yes, there are cruises from Cairo to Aswan.
  • However, these cruises are typically longer and may include additional stops like Tell el-Amarna, Abydos, and Dandara.
  • Alternative: You can take a cruise between Luxor and Aswan, which is the most popular route.

Do You Need a Visa for Egypt?

• Visa Requirement: All visitors need a visa unless they are from a visa-exempt country.
  • Types of Visa:
    • Visa on Arrival: Available at the airport or land border (valid for 30 days).
    • Egypt e-Visa: You can apply for an e-Visa online, which is more convenient and ideal for tourism or business.

Distance from Aswan to Abu Simbel

• Travel Time: 3 hours by road.
  • Buses: Tour buses travel in a convoy for safety, with two main departures per day, around 4 AM and 11 AM.
  • Air Travel: You can also take a flight from Aswan to Abu Simbel if you prefer a quicker option.

Tour Guide Costs in Egypt

• Cost of a Tour Guide:
  • Average Rates:
    • Half-Day Tour: Around $30-$50 USD.
    • Full-Day Tour: Around $60-$100 USD depending on the guide’s experience and the location.
  • Private vs Group: Private guides are more expensive than group tours, but offer a more personalized experience.

Sample Itinerary: Exploring Cairo

1. Morning: Egyptian Museum of Antiquities
   • Houses 250,000+ artifacts, including famous treasures like King Tut’s tomb and the Rosetta Stone.
   • The Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza (opening soon) will be even more extensive.
2. Afternoon: Citadel of Cairo and Islamic Cairo
   • Visit the Citadel of Saladin and explore the Alabaster Mosque.
   • Discover Cairo’s Islamic Cairo district, with its rich history and mosques, such as Sultan Hassan Mosque.

For more information on tours and packages, check out sites like HurghadaExcursion.com for curated experiences and additional details.

Where is the best Egyptian Museum