Egypt is a destination that feels both monumental and deeply alive, where ancient history and modern daily life meet along the Nile. Travelers are drawn by the sheer scale of its wonders: the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, the temples of Luxor and Karnak, and the tombs of the Valley of the Kings. Beyond its archaeological icons, Egypt offers memorable experiences like sailing on a felucca at sunset, cruising the Nile between Aswan and Luxor, exploring bustling bazaars in Cairo, and diving or snorkeling in the clear waters of the Red Sea.
What makes Egypt especially special is the variety packed into one trip: world-famous heritage sites, vibrant cities, desert landscapes, and resort coasts. Travelers should plan for early starts at major monuments to avoid crowds and midday heat, dress modestly when visiting religious or traditional areas, and carry cash for smaller purchases and tips, which are customary. Domestic flights and overnight trains can save time over long distances, and hiring a knowledgeable local guide can add valuable historical context while making visits to major sites much smoother.
The best time to visit Egypt is from March to April, when travel interest peaks and conditions are generally more comfortable for sightseeing. These spring months are ideal because they offer warmer but usually more manageable weather than the intense summer heat, making it easier to explore outdoor sites like the pyramids and ancient temples.
Today we are starting at 08:00 AM. It's unusual for us to be able to sleep in this long. The felucca is already waiting next to our river cruise ship for the trip to Kitchener...
Today we're traveling from Aswan to Abu Simbel by bus. We had already booked this excursion in advance for €149 with our trip reservation. The alarm goes off at 03:45 AM. Yes,...
Since we arrived at Aswan around midnight and our cabin was facing the street, we were able to sleep quite peacefully, as we learned from other travelers at breakfast. There were...
Arrival in Edfu around 05:30 AM. Edfu A little mo
Wake-up call at 6 AM and breakfast. We depart at 7 AM. Our first destination is the Karnak Temple, arriving at 07:40. Guided tour and about 1 hour of free time. Meeting point at...
After another night at the Swiss Inn Hotel, check-out was at 8:00 AM for everyone who had booked the additional excursion. Suitcases onto the bus and off we went. The rest stayed...
We set the alarm for 05:30 AM. During the night, we didn’t feel like taking a shower anymore. After a refreshing shower, we went down for breakfast at 06:00 AM. There was a hustle...
Finally, the time has come. The suitcase is packed. We will be picked up at 11 AM and taken to the airport.
In 1987, I took a tour through Egypt. For relaxation, I spent an afternoon reading a book, sipping cola, and enjoying a sandwich on the terrace of the Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan....
We have 5 vacation days left and feel that we need to get out again. It’s not enough for long trips, but definitely enough for a week in Egypt. Since we're quite last minute, the...
To the beach please The head of the HR department had raved to me about the Mediterranean beaches and the name Alexandria had such an aura for me that I...
I was thrilled to see how many people are taking an interest in my adventure, my journey. Even people I don’t know particularly well have asked if I can share a bit, for example...
I have been asked a few times whether my employers provide one for me. No, they are also not helpful in finding one. Presumably because, as my German colleague said...
On the way, I already had my first brief conversation where I was asked if I was flying to Egypt to bring relief supplies to Gaza on foot. I said I was sorry, but I'm not that...
Phew. Finally on the airplane. F i n a l l y o u t ! No no, it’s not that bad... yet I must honestly say: The further we get away from this country, the freer I feel right now. ...
the journey began on January 6
Today we visit the historic Islamic quarter of Cairo. There, you can see the oldest (well-preserved) houses and mosques. We start with the Gayer Anderson Museum: a very exciting...
Akhenaten
Today is the last day in Assuan. We visit the unfinished obelisk. Hatshepsut commissioned this mega obelisk, it would have been the largest obelisk ever built in Egypt....
Today we are going back to Assuan - which means going through the same straight road that leads through the desert. This time we are staying on Elephantine Island in Assuan, an...
Today we are driving further south, almost 4 hours by car, to Abu Simbel to visit the temple of Ramses II and his wife Nefertari. I think everyone knows these temples, which...
First, ferry to the island
We have been longing for a day when we don't have to get up before 5 o'clock - today is the day. The only attraction on the agenda is the Kom Ombo Temple, which we will visit at...
An unforgettable day
Today we are heading south, by plane to Luxor. The flight from Cairo departs at 6 o'clock, so we have to get up at 3 o'clock. But we will be grateful later in the day, as we...
Today a short post, on one hand because we mostly drove and ate and saw little, and on the other hand because tomorrow we continue at 3.00 am! Today we are driving back to Cairo...
A Day in Alexandria
Today we continue to Alexandria, a 4.5-hour drive from Cairo. Time for some thoughts about the country and its people. I am grateful for Hoda, our guide. She brings the people...
Woke up with a cold, slept poorly. There is a lot on the program today, so I'm tense because I don't feel well. The anticipation of the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx is...
With a little sleep but still well-rested, I set off on a self-guided tour of the historic Islamic quarter in Cairo. I started on El Moez Street and walked along it to the old...