pyramids in egypt egypt trip

Egypt Trip: 12 Important Things to Know Before Your Trip

Are you planning an Egypt trip from India? If yes, then here is everything you need to know.

I’ll be honest, I had been planning a trip to Egypt for so many years that I wasn’t sure I would ever be able to tick it off my list. 

But, this year, I was finally able to make my wish come true and landed in the home of the magnificent pyramids.

From the majestic Great Pyramids to the charming Nile River cruise, to the thrilling dune bashing in the Sahara Desert, there was never a dull moment on my Egypt trip.

And the best part? I marveled at the real-life mummies here too! At one point, I actually felt like I was living my own Indiana Jones movie. 

Plus, there are so many unique, offbeat places to explore here such as Siwa, Dahab, Marsalam, and more that you need at least a month to take it all in!

Are you looking for a unique experience? If so, then plan a trip to Egypt. Here is everything you need to know to plan your amazing vacation to Egypt from India!

Egypt Trip: 10 Important Things to Know Before Your Trip

Best Time to Visit Egypt

Now, before you begin booking your flights, let me tell you when you should actually plan your epic Egypt trip from India!

This depends a little on the places and the experiences that you are looking to cover but generally, October to April is a good time to visit this African country. 

To help you decide better, I have briefly explained what you can do in each season in Egypt.

Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)

Personally, I think the spring and fall seasons are the best time to visit Egypt. 

This is because it also happens to be the shoulder season so you can get plenty of discounts while the weather is pleasant. There are fewer tourists as well so, you can take in what this country has to offer.

Summer (June to August)

Although this might be the cheapest time to travel to Egypt, if you are not well-versed in the heat then this is also the worst time to visit Egypt.

The temperature reaches 40 degrees Celsius or more, making exploring during the day difficult. On the other hand, if you are planning a scuba diving trip, then this is a great time to visit.

Winter (December to February)

If you are someone who wants the perfect weather when visiting a place, then consider planning a trip to Egypt in the winter months.

The weather is cool during the day so, you can enjoy the attractions more. But this also means that this is the high season in Egypt with lots of tourists flocking to the main sites.

As a result, the prices of hotels, flights, tours, etc. are also quite high during this time. But if money and crowd is not an issue, then you can go for it.

colorful village in egypt
Nubian Village

Passport and Visa Requirements for Egypt

Coming to the visa requirements for Egypt, sadly Indians are required to get a visa for Egypt and are not eligible for a Visa on Arrival until we meet a few conditions.

So, if you are planning your trip to Egypt from India, here is everything to know about the passport and visa requirements.

Passport Requirements

Make sure that your passport is valid for 6 months from the intended date of departure. Also, there should be at least two blank pages for the Visa and the entry stamps.

Visa

  • Indian passport holders can apply for a Sticker Visa or an e-visa for Egypt.
  • There are different types of visas available for tourism, business, and other purposes.
  • The Visa Fee for a Single-Entry Tourist Visa (Sticker Visa) for a maximum stay of up to 30 days is approximately 2400 INR for Indians. 
  • You can get a Visa on Arrival if you meet the eligibility criteria.

How to Apply for a Sticker Visa

For a Sticker Visa for Egypt, the process is quite simple. 

You need to submit your visa application at the Embassy of Egypt in New Delhi or the General Consulate of Egypt in Mumbai.

Here are the documents that you need to submit for the Sticker Visa:

  • A valid passport 
  • Photocopy of the passport information pages (both front and back)
  • Fully completed and signed visa application form 
  • Two 2×2 colored photos with a white background that is no older than 6 months.
  • Cover letter explaining the purpose of the visit and details of the tour
  • Detailed tour program on the letterhead of an Egyptian Travel Agency with their contact details
  • Confirmed Return Flight Tickets and Internal Tickets 
  • Confirmed Hotel Bookings
  • The last 6 months’ bank statements, attested and signed by the bank.

How to Apply for E-Visa

Indians are also eligible for e-visa so, if you want a little more flexibility in your trip, you can get an e-visa instead.

To get Egypt eVisa, you need to follow the below steps:

  1. Go to the official website https://www.visa2egypt.gov.eg/ and register for an account.
  2. Login to your account and create a new Visa Application.
  3. Fill out your travel details and passport information, upload your passport, and then fill out the host information.
  4. Once you have filled in all the information, pay the e-Visa fees of 25 USD and complete the application. You will receive the confirmation in the email.
  5. After your e-visa is approved, you will receive an email stating that your visa has been processed. Alternatively, you can check the status of your e-visa application by logging in to your profile.

I did not apply through the official website as I was traveling solo and didn’t want to submit all the documents. 

So, I applied for Egypt eVisa through Atlys and got it within 3 working days. All I had to submit was my passport’s front and back copy they took care of everything.

When I applied, I had paid only 500-600 INR extra for their service charges but they have increased their charges now. So, you can decide if you wish to apply through them or not.

Are Indians Eligible for a Visa on Arrival?

Let’s come to one of the burning quests, are Indians truly eligible for a Visa on Arrival?

Well, my friends, as per the official announcement of the Embassy of Egypt, New Delhi in November 2022, Indians are eligible for a Visa on Arrival if they fulfill one of the following requirements:

  • You have a Gulf Country Resident Visa that is valid for 6 months after the intended entry date into Egypt.
  • Indian Tourist Groups can obtain a Visa on Arrival if they are doing a tour organized by an Egyptian Tour Operator. 

But the rules for this keeps changing. So, make sure to check with the Embassy of Egypt in India for updated information when planning to travel to Egypt. 

You can call or email them during their office hours for any queries you might have about the Egypt Visa process or documents.

Egypt international airport from outside egypt trip
Sphinx International Airport

India to Egypt Flights

Let’s discuss the India to Egypt flights a little before you actually begin planning your Egypt trip.

Thankfully, there are plenty of flight options available to reach Egypt from India, both directly and indirectly.

There are several international airports in Egypt where you can get flights from India. 

Cairo, Alexandria, Sharm El Sheikh, Giza, etc. are a few locations where you can fly from India.

While direct flights are limited, several airlines provide one-stop options with layovers in the Middle East or Europe.

Direct Flights

Currently, EgyptAir offers non-stop flights from Mumbai and Delhi to Cairo and vice versa, making it the quickest and most convenient option for travelers. 

The flight duration is approximately 6 to 7 hours.

Connecting Flights

If you’re flying from cities like Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, or Hyderabad, you will likely need to take connecting flights. 

You can opt for major airlines that offer one-stop flights such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, and Saudia

These flights generally have layovers in Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Kuwait, or Jeddah.

If you are looking for more budget-friendly options, then you can break your journey and use low-cost airlines such as Air India and Indigo for India to UAE or Saudi travel. 

From UAE or Saudi Arabia, you can take Wizz Air which is one of the best and cheapest airlines in the Middle East and Europe. 

But remember that if you break your journey, you will likely need to apply for a Transit Visa for the country you will be landing it.

Airfare Costs

  • Direct Flights: INR 35,000 – 50,000 for round-trip economy from Mumbai or Delhi.
  • Connecting Flights: INR 30,000 – 70,000 round-trip, depending on the airline and season.

If you book in advance (2-3 months), you can probably get lower rates. Also, avoid peak travel seasons (December-January) as the prices may be higher during that time.

Also, you might get a good price for planning your Egypt trip in October so, do look for flights around that time.

Booking Tips

  • Use Comparison Tools: You can use websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Kayak to compare prices before booking your tickets.
  • Book from Official Airline Websites: It is always recommended to book your flights from the official airline website rather than third-party websites. This is because you will get refunds and flight change options more easily if you book directly with the airlines.
  • Look for Deals: Gulf carriers often have promotional offers, especially during off-peak seasons.
  • Flexible Dates: Opt for mid-week travel to get cheaper fares.
view from flight egypt trip
India to Egypt Flight

Accommodation in Egypt

Over the years, I have become quite particular about my stays during a trip.

So, while I still look for the cheapest option possible, I also focus on the one that is neat and clean. 

Thankfully, Egypt didn’t disappoint in this sense. You can find all kinds of accommodation options here easily.

From luxury resorts to budget hostels, Egypt has it all.

Budget Accommodation

If you are a budget traveler like me, then don’t worry because you will find plenty of affordable guesthouses and hostels here. 

  • Price Range: INR 800 – 1,500 per night (~10-20 USD).
  • Popular Options: You can find budget stays in areas like downtown Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan, where hostels and small hotels cater to backpackers. You get basic amenities here such as shared bathrooms, breakfast, WiFi, and so on.

Mid-Range Hotels

If you are looking for more comfort and private bathrooms, then there are several mid-range hotels to consider here as well.

  • Price Range: INR 2,000 – 5,000 per night (~20-70 USD).
  • Popular Locations: Giza, close to the pyramids; Zamalek and Downtown Cairo for sightseeing; East Bank of Luxor and the Corniche in Aswan.

Luxury Hotels and Resorts

For luxury travelers, there are plenty of 4- and 5-star resorts available in Egypt. 

These accommodations often offer premium services like swimming pools, fine dining, spas, and scenic views (Nile or Pyramids).

  • Price Range: INR 8,000 and above (~100+ USD) per night.
  • Locations: Cairo, particularly in Zamalek or near the Pyramids; Luxor and Aswan along the Nile; Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh along the Red Sea.

Alternative Options

  • Airbnb: You can also book apartments or homes for rent on Airbnb which is quite popular in Cairo and Alexandria.
  • Nile Cruises: This is perfect for those exploring Luxor and Aswan.
hostel with 4 beds egypt trip
David Hostel, Aswan

Money in Egypt

Currency

The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian Pounds (EGP, Symbol E£, LE). 

1 Egyptian Pound is divided into 100 piastres. Notes are in denominations of 25 and 50 piastres along with 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 pounds. 

Coins are in denominations of 5, 10, 25, and 50 piastres and 1 pound.

Apart from the Egyptian Pound, you can also use United States Dollars (USD) and Euros here.

Present Rates (October 2024):

1 EGP = 1.73 INR

1 USD = 48.3 EGP

1 EUR = 54 EGP

Money Exchange

In terms of whether you should carry cash or a Forex card, well I would suggest that you get both.

If you are paying local vendors, cash would be accepted in most cases. Cards only work if you are paying for groceries in supermarkets, hotels, or restaurants.

You can carry cash both in Egyptian pounds and USD. 

If you are wondering about currency exchange, then I would suggest using an ATM to withdraw in the local currency. This is the most convenient way to avoid commission. 

For those who already have USD or Euros, you can easily get Egyptian Pounds at the local banks or exchange shops in Egypt.

Are you looking for a recommendation for a Forex card? Then, try Fi Money

It is similar to Niyo but the ATM withdrawal charges are much less than Niyo. Also, they refund the Forex fees charged on your transactions within a month. 

Plus, it is super easy to get it if you are a salaried individual.

ATMs

There are ATMs available in all towns and cities of Egypt so, you won’t face any issues in withdrawing cash.

Moreover, most hotels, restaurants, etc. accept international cards. 

However, beware because scams are quite common in Egypt. Keep your international debit cards and Forex cards protected at all times. 

Also, don’t withdraw from an ATM if there is someone shady nearby, and keep a look at your bank messages and statements to track your legitimate spending.

Credit Cards

As I said earlier, credit cards are widely accepted in Egypt. You can pay hotel and restaurant bills, buy tickets online, and more with international credit cards.

So, make sure you have an international credit card that works. Most attractions in Egypt don’t accept cash so this is quite essential for you to buy the entry tickets.

Also, if you plan to pay hotels and restaurants using your credit card, do remember that they charge a small fee for these payments. This is why cash is always recommended.

However, if you do run out of cash with no ATM in sight, then most places accept credit cards here.

egyptian currency egypt trip
Egyptian Currency

Network Connectivity in Egypt

WiFi and Network in Egypt

Honestly, I would advise you to not rely on WiFi in Egypt. 

Very few places have good WiFi so, if you are going to be working from Egypt or want to do regular video calls to your friends and family members, then do get a data pack.

Surprisingly, mobile data works better and faster here. 

International Roaming Plans

If you are going for a short trip and don’t want to involve yourself with the process of buying a local sim, then you can turn international roaming on your Indian sim card.

There are plenty of plans available which include voice calls, mobile data, and more. 

Here are a few options that you can consider:

  1. Airtel: You can get both daily and long-term international roaming packs with Airtel that start at around INR 649 for a day. For Egypt, I took a 30-day IR pack which cost me around 3999 INR and gave me 100 minutes of voice calls daily, 20 free SMSes, and 12 GB of data.
  2. Jio: Jio also offers daily roaming IR packs starting at 499 INR. Depending on your package, you can opt for a voice calls-only IR pack or a data pack. From 1 to 7 days to 28 days, you can find IR packs for all durations here.
  3. Vodafone-Idea (Vi): Vodafone Idea also offers roaming plans starting at INR 599 per day with voice, SMS, and data bundles for Egypt and other international destinations.

I have personally used both Jio and Airtel IR packs in the last two years and can say that they work great in most countries. 

Airtel is definitely the best in terms of network connectivity so, if you want a good connection, then I would suggest Airtel IR packs.

Local SIM

Personally, I would always suggest you buy a local SIM rather than turning on International roaming on your home SIM.

Why? Well, because this is always cheaper and you get more data at a lower price.

In Egypt, you can get SIMs like Etisalat, Orange, or We. It would cost you barely 20 USD and there will be plenty of data to last you a month or more.

You can buy these SIM cards at the airport or the local mobile phone stores. Do remember that most of the time, you will be charged higher for a connection.

E-Sim

Of course, changing the SIM cards can be a pain, especially if you don’t have a dual SIM option.

Don’t worry because I have a perfect solution for you!

You can always get an e-SIM from a trusted operator like Airalo or Holafly. However, these can be a little expensive.

Recently, I used RaizingSim in Europe and had the best experience with them. Their prices are quite reasonable and the network is really top-notch. 
You also get excellent service with them and the entire installation process is quite easy. So, if you are looking for affordable eSIMs for Egypt, then do check out RaizingSim.

heiroglyphs in egypt

How to Travel in Egypt

So, now that you know a little more about how to reach Egypt and the visa process, let me share my insights on the best way to travel around on your Egypt trip.

InterCity Travel

If you are planning to cover multiple cities in Egypt, then you have a plethora of options available to travel around. 

From flights to trains, you can get almost everything here but some places can be a little remote.

Flights – If you don’t want to waste time and don’t mind spending a bit more on transport, then flights are the quickest way to reach anywhere in Egypt.

You can easily get flights to cities such as Sharm El Sheikh, Aswan, Luxor, and more. However, do remember that these can be expensive and put quite a dent in your budget trip to Egypt. 

Trains – As an Indian, I expected train rides to be cheaper in Egypt but alas, that was not the case. The rail network is anyway limited in the country due to the desert land. But still, there are some major routes that can help travelers such as Cairo to Luxor to Aswan, and so on. This doesn’t matter though because train journeys are quite expensive here. Moreover, you can book the tickets from the railway station only.

Buses and Minivans – If you are on a budget trip to Egypt from India, then I would suggest you book buses and take minivans instead of cabs or flights. 

You can book buses online using Bookaway or Busbud websites but they can be a little tricky at times with the timings. 

So, what I would suggest is that if you are not moving from your city on the first night, then go and book a bus locally at the office. GoBus has offices all over Egypt where you can book bus routes for yourself. 

Other bus companies to look out for are WeBus, Siwa Bus, and more.

City Travel

Depending on the city you are exploring, there are different modes of transportation available.

Taxis and Uber – You will find Taxis and Uber in most metropolitan cities here such as Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and more. 

Download Careem and inDrive app to get the best rates. 

In Cairo, you can also book Uber bikes which is a cost-effective way to travel around the city. 

Metro – In Cairo, you also have the option of using the metro to travel around the city. There are 3 metro lines with over 92 stations and the tickets are quite reasonable.

Microbuses – In most cities, you can get microbuses which are smaller and faster than the buses. They are perfect for budget travelers as the journey costs you anywhere between 2 – 20 LE. 

However, be prepared to not get seats in these microbuses and get lost a bit because it can be confusing to find the right microbus for your journey as they don’t write the signs in English.

Motorboats or Nile Taxis – One of the coolest things about Egypt is that there are motorboats and Nile taxis available for crossing the Nile River. They are both affordable and quick.

Tuk Tuks – In cities like Siwa, you won’t find taxis or microbuses. What you will find is lots of tuk-tuks. 

These are the best way to explore the town but make sure to check the prices and bargain a little before you hire one for your trip.

cruise in rive
Nile Cruise

Food in Egypt 

What I really love about Egypt is that their cuisine is a brilliant mix of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors. 

Moreover, most of the dishes are similar to our Indian dishes with lots of spices and veggies. 

Here are a few dishes that you must try in Egypt:

  • Koshari: This is the national dish of Egypt and one of the top vegetarian dishes to try here. Koshari is a mix of lentils, rice, pasta, chickpeas, and fried onions, topped with a tangy tomato sauce. The dish is not only filling but quite budget-friendly as well and easily available at the local eateries.
  • Ful Medames: A staple breakfast dish that you cannot miss out on in Egypt is Ful Medames. It is made from fava beans, mashed with garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice, and is often served with pita bread. 
  • Ta’ameya (Egyptian Falafel): Of course, when visiting Egypt, you cannot miss out on the traditional Egyptian Falafel. Unlike the common falafel made from chickpeas, Egyptian falafel is made from fava beans. As a result, it is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. You can eat it with salad, tahini, and bread.
  • Molokhia: Another traditional Egyptian dish that you can try is Molokhia. It is a green, leafy soup made from jute leaves, flavored with garlic and coriander, and often served with rice and meat (like chicken or rabbit). 
  • Shawarma: My personal favorite was the shawarma which is basically grilled meat (usually chicken or lamb) served in pita bread with tahini, salad, and garlic sauce. 
  • Mahshi: This is one particular dish that I have a mixed opinion about since I am not a big fan of sweet tomato sauces for veggies. Mahshi is basically vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers stuffed with a spiced rice mixture which are then cooked in tomato sauce. It’s a popular dish in Egypt so, you can try it, especially if you are a vegetarian.
  • Baklava: For dessert, don’t forget the Baklava, a rich, sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough filled with nuts and soaked in honey or syrup.

Online Food Delivery Apps

Another thing to keep in mind when traveling to Egypt is that there are online food delivery apps that you can use to order food for your hotel.

These are particularly popular in major cities such as Alexandria, Giza, and Cairo. Below, I have listed down some of the food apps that I used regularly during my 1-month Egypt trip.

  • Talabat: This is one of the largest food delivery services in Egypt and offers a variety of local and international cuisines. From Pizza Hut to local restaurants, you can order from anywhere using this app.
  • Uber Eats: You can also use Uber Eats in Egypt but remember that it is not as widespread as Talabat.

You can pay online or opt for cash on delivery, a popular payment method in Egypt.

rice with veggies and BBQed chicken on a plate
Traditional Egyptian Meal

Shopping in Egypt

For shopping enthusiasts, Egypt is a great place as there are so many unique things to buy here!

From high-quality papyrus to spices, to alabaster products, you can find all kinds of amazing products in Egypt. 

Egypt is quite famous for its alabaster and glass products. So, you can find amazing pieces of lamps, vases, and more here. 

Bargaining is a common part of shopping in Egypt so, be prepared to haggle a lot. Be polite while bargaining but don’t be afraid to negotiate the prices.

Traditional Markets (Souks) to Check

  • Khan El Khalili (Cairo): One of the oldest and most famous souks in the Middle East, Khan El Khalili is a must-visit. Here, you find handcrafted jewelry, lanterns, spices, perfumes, leather goods, and Egyptian souvenirs like papyrus and alabaster statues. Do remember to bargain as it’s a part of the Egyptian culture!
  • Luxor and Aswan Markets: You can find amazing local markets in these cities as well that offer authentic Egyptian items. From Nubian jewelry to handmade textiles, you can find all kinds of items here. These souks tend to be less touristy compared to Cairo and give you a chance to shop for local souvenirs.

What to Shop in Egypt

  • Papyrus: Papyrus paintings are a signature Egyptian souvenir, made from the ancient plant used for writing in Pharaonic times. You can buy beautiful hand-painted pieces in the souks and the papyrus institutes in Egypt.
  • Egyptian Cotton: If you want to buy cotton stuff, Egypt is great as the quality of cotton is high here. You can buy bed linens, cotton clothes, scarves, and more here.
  • Spices and Teas: Egypt is famous for its spices like cumin, coriander, saffron, and hibiscus tea (karkadeh). You’ll find many spice stalls in souks where you can purchase fresh, aromatic herbs.
  • Gold and Silver Jewelry: Egypt is famous for its exquisite jewelry, particularly gold and silver pieces with traditional designs. The Gold Souk in Khan El Khalili and shops in Aswan are great places to find intricate pieces at amazing prices.
  • Alabaster and Stone Carvings: Statues and carvings made from alabaster, a stone historically used in Pharaonic tombs, are also a great buy. You’ll find beautiful replicas of ancient Egyptian gods and figures in places like Luxor and Aswan. I personally got some Scarabs made from alabaster which are said to be lucky to the user.
scarabs in egypt
Scarabs in Egypt

Tours and Activities in Egypt

Now, coming to the exciting tour and activities that you cannot miss out on when traveling to Egypt.

What I love about this country is that it is something for all kinds of travelers. 

Whether you are an adventure seeker, a leisure traveler, or a history buff, there is a tour or activity that will be well-suited for you here.

However, if you want an all-rounded experience, then here are a few top activities to try in Egypt:

  1. Pyramids of Giza and Sphinx: I mean if you are visiting Egypt, cannot miss the iconic Pyramids of Giza and Sphinx, right? You can take a guided tour of these pyramids to learn about ancient Egyptian history. Or you can simply visit, take photographs, and marvel at these stunning structures.
  2. Nile River Cruise: One of the most amazing things to do in Egypt is take the Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan. You get to enjoy breathtaking views of temples like Karnak and Edfu, and it is one of the most relaxing experiences ever. The cruises are 3-7 days long and you can get them for as low as 100 USD for 2 nights.
  3. Snorkeling or Diving in the Red Sea: Another thing that I highly recommend is snorkeling or scuba diving in Egypt. There are some amazing diving sites in Head to Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, Dahab, and Marsa Alam. From turtles to sharks, you can find rich marine life in the Red Sea with amazing corals.
  4. Visit Temples of Abu Simbel: Well, majestic doesn’t do justice to it but Abu Simbel is an iconic temple that you must visit. I would recommend you spend a night in Abu Simbel and then take an early morning tour of the temples as most people come as a day trip from Aswan. Trust me, these are the most brilliant temples built by Ramses II and are famous for their impressive size and detailed carvings.
  5. Hot Air Balloon Ride in Luxor: Have you ever gone on a hot air balloon ride in your life? If not, then Egypt might be a good place to try! You can experience a magical sunrise over the Valley of the Kings and Temple of Hatshepsut from the sky, which looks completely magical!
temples in egypt trip
Abu Simple Temples

Cultural Etiquettes and Tips for Traveling in Egypt

I believe that whenever you travel to a country, you should follow the cultural etiquette to not stand out and be respectful of the locals.

This is why I researched a lot before my trip to Egypt. Here are a few things that I found to be true from my personal experience in this country:

  1. Dress Modestly: Since Egypt is a conservative country, it is best that women travelers cover their shoulders and knees, particularly when visiting religious sites. Men should avoid wearing shorts to non-touristy or religious places. Personally, I kept lots of long dresses and skirts that helped me stay modest and comfortable while exploring around the cities here.
  2. Respect Religion: The majority of Egyptians are Muslim, and respecting their customs is important.When visiting mosques, remove your shoes, and women should cover their heads. During Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.
  3. Tipping (Baksheesh): Tipping is customary in Egypt. Tip around 10-15% in restaurants, and small amounts to porters, drivers, and guides. I learned this the hard way which is why I would advise you to keep 5, 10, or 20 Egyptian notes ready to hand out as baksheesh.
  4. Bargaining: Haggling is common in markets. Be polite and patient.
  5. Public Displays of Affection: Avoid public displays of affection, as they are frowned upon in Egypt.
egyptian man playing a musical drum
Nubian Village Man

Egypt Trip Cost from India

So, I spent around 1-1.25 lakhs on my trip to Egypt excluding the diving cost (I dived around 10 days in Dahab which was amazing but super expensive!). 

But this was a 25-day trip so if we consider that, it isn’t that bad. 

Of course, most of you would be planning a shorter 7-10-day trip. So, here is a cost breakdown for you:

Flights and Visa

  • Round-trip flights from India (Delhi/Mumbai) to Cairo:
    • Economy class: INR 35,000 – 55,000 (depending on the season and airline)
    • Business class: INR 1 – 1.5 lakh
  • Visa for Indians – 2200 – 3,000 INR (depending on how you take the visa)

Accommodation

  • Budget: INR 800 – 1,500 per night (Hostels, guesthouses, budget hotels)
  • Mid-range: INR 2,000 – 5,000 per night (3-4 star hotels)
  • Luxury: INR 8,000 – 20,000 per night (5-star hotels, resorts)

Tours & Activities

  • Guided tours (Pyramids, museums, temples): INR 10,000 – 30,000 depending on the package and inclusions.
  • Nile cruise (3-4 days): INR 9,000 – 25,000 (or more depending on your cruise package and the rating of the cruise).
  • Entrance fees: INR 2,000 – 8,000 for various attractions.

Meals

  • Budget meals: INR 500 – 1,000 per day.
  • Mid-range: INR 1,500 – 2,500 per day.
  • Fine dining: INR 3,000+ per day.

Miscellaneous

  • Local transport, souvenirs, tips: INR 5,000 – 15,000.

Total Estimated Costs:

  • Budget trip: INR 80,000 – 1.2 lakh per person.
  • Mid-range trip: INR 1.3 – 1.8 lakh per person.
  • Luxury trip: INR 2 – 3.5 lakh per person.

Booking in advance and traveling in the off-season can help lower costs. And of course, if you travel like me, you can save more. 

But yes, if you want to travel like a normal human being (certainly not me), then this is a good budget reference to keep in mind. 

colorful village in egypt
Nubian Village

So, guys, I hope this guide has given you all the information you need to plan an incredible trip to Egypt!

From flights and visas to must-try foods and shopping tips, I’ve covered the essentials to help make your journey as smooth as possible.

Hope you plan your incredible trip to Egypt soon and comment below if you have any questions! Happy Travels! 😀

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