Embark on this 7-day Cairo and Sharm El Sheikh beach escape to explore the highlights of Cairo and have 3 days relaxing at the world-famous resort town Sharm El Sheikh to enjoy the beautiful white sandy beaches, clear waters, and stunning coral reefs. Sharm El Sheikh is the perfect beach vacation destination in Egypt, a great place for beach and diving lovers.
This 7-day Egypt tour package is fully customizable, allowing you to tailor it to your specific interests and preferences.
Overview
This 7-day Cairo & Sharm El Sheikh Beach Escape starts in Cairo by exploring the marvels of Cairo and the enigmatic Giza Pyramids. Then, fly to Sharm El Sheikh, the world-famous resort town, where you will have 3 days to relax and enjoy the beautiful white sandy beaches, clear waters, stunning coral reefs, and take part in some water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, etc. This is a great week-long trip for a Christmas or New Year holiday with your friends and family. The tour ends by sending you off at Sharm El Sheikh airport for your flight back to Cairo or your onward flight.
Trip Highlights
- Visit the Pyramids of Giza and see the mythical Sphinx
- Explore Cairo Old City including Egyptian Museum and Khan El-Khalili markets
- 3 day FREE & RELAX at Sharm El Sheikh Beach Resort
Itinerary
Welcome to Egypt! Upon your arrival at Cairo International Airport, you're met at the airport by an GrandAisaTour representative and driven to your hotel in Cairo in a private air-conditioned vehicle for check-in. It's time to relax and enjoy your stay at the Cairo hotel. Have a comfortable overnight stay in Cairo as you prepare to explore the wonders of Egypt in the following days.
After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, you will be greeted by our English-speaking Egyptologist tour guide to begin your first-day tour. Your day will commence with a visit to the Pyramids of Giza, including those of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure. These three pyramids stand as monumental symbols of greatness, accompanied by the iconic limestone Sphinx guarding the entire area. Following this, have lunch at one of our local restaurants.
Afterward, you will continue your journey to the city of Sakkara, where you'll have the opportunity to explore the Step Pyramid of King Djoser. This pyramid has a fascinating history: King Djoser tasked his chief architect, Imhotep, with creating something entirely unique for his burial. Imhotep's innovative response, the Step Pyramid, astonished the king and marked a groundbreaking achievement for its era.
Finally, drive to Memphis, where you will visit the Open Air Museum, home to the marvelous monuments of King Ramses II. After concluding your day tour, you will return to your hotel in Cairo for an overnight stay.
Begin your Cairo City tour with a visit to the Egyptian Museum, one of Egypt's most significant museums, housing a remarkable collection of Pharaonic monuments, including those of the renowned King Tutankhamen. Following your museum visit, you will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
After lunch, you will be transported to the Old Cairo area, where you can explore the Citadel of Salah El-Din, a historically vital fortress that played a pivotal role in Egypt's defense for over 700 years.
Next, continue your journey to one of Egypt's most fascinating and ancient markets, Khan El-Khalili, known as one of the most captivating bazaars in the Middle East.
Once your day tour is complete, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Cairo for an overnight stay.
Today, you will be transferred to Cairo Airport for your flight to Sharm El Sheikh. Upon your arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel.
Sharm El Sheikh is one of the most popular destinations in Egypt. Located in the southern part of the Sinai Peninsula, it's known for its white sandy beaches, clear waters, and stunning coral reefs. You will spend two full days totally free and at your leisure to do as you please. Head out on an optional excursion for the day or simply relax and unwind at your beach resort.
Overnight at Sharm El Sheikh beach resort.
Full days totally free and at your leisure to do as you please. Or opt to join the optional Ras Mohammed park tour (additional fee applies). Ras Mohamed Park is home to some of the world's finest snorkeling and diving spots, boasting an unmatched array of marine life. Explore various distinct locations within the park, indulge in snorkeling, swimming, and leisurely moments aboard the boat. An open buffet lunch will be provided on board. Spend the night in Sharm El Sheikh.
Full days totally free and at your leisure to do as you please. Or opt to join the optional tour to one of Sinai's natural wonders, the majestic Colored Canyon (additional fee applies). Take a leisurely stroll amidst the breathtaking sandstone canyon walls adorned with vivid hues of melting yellows, purples, reds, magentas, and gold. At certain points, the canyon walls soar up to 40 meters, enveloping you in the pages of a stunning coloring book.
After breakfast, you will be met and transferred to Sharm El Sheikh Airport for your flight back to Cairo to connect with your onward flight. End the travel in Egypt.
The Trip Cost Includes
- 1. Accommodation
- - 3 nights in twin-share rooms at 5 star Cairo hotel with breakfast
- - 3 nights in twin-share rooms at Sharm El Sheikh 5 star resort with breakfast
- * Please be aware that all accommodations are subject to change until 2-4 weeks before the departure date. Final accommodation details will be provided to you with your finalized travel documents.
- 2. Guide: Experienced English-speaking guide for Cairo sightseeing
- 3. Meal: 6 Breakfasts
- *This tour offers Vegetarian, Vegan and Halal food options on request. Simply let us know the food option that you prefer.
- 4. Transportation:
- - Domestic Flight Cairo/Sharm El Sheikh
- - Ground tour with A/C vans.
- - Cairo/Sharm El Sheikh airports pick up/drop off.
- 5. Entrance tickets: Entrance fees for the included sightseeing.
- 6. Other fees: Government tax and travel agency handling fee.
The Trip Cost Excludes
- 1. Egypt Visa of Egypt.
- 2. Any optional visits/tours for an additional cost(Please contact our team of Travel Experts if you want to add some of them to your tour.)
- - Visit to any of Giza Pyramids from inside.
- - Any optional visits/tours are available on this tour.
- - Sound & Light show at the Pyramids
- 3. Meals not indicated in the itinerary
- 4. Drinks, snacks and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
- 5. Travel insurance.
- 6. Tipping to your guide & driver.
- 7. International Flights arrival at Cairo & Departure from Sharm El Sheikh.
Frequently asked Questions
The ideal time to visit Egypt is during the months from October to April when you can expect pleasant temperatures and abundant sunshine. Among these, the winter months of November to February are the most popular for tourists seeking to escape colder climates and explore attractions like Cairo and the pyramids.
Spring and autumn also offer excellent weather conditions with fewer crowds, making them great choices for planning your Egypt holiday packages. The shoulder months of October, March, and April, in particular, provide pleasant weather and fewer tourists, ideal for visiting the main attractions and enjoying a Nile River cruise.
On the other hand, the summer months, from May to September, can be quite hot with temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to over 100°F. During this time, tourist numbers decrease due to the harsh daytime sun, but it’s a good period to explore Egypt’s coastal areas and relax at seaside resorts.
Tourists from many countries, including the US, UK, Canada, New Zealand, and EU nations, can easily obtain a renewable, single-entry visa upon arrival at select Egyptian airports (listed below). These tourist visas typically allow for a 30-day stay and cost $25. Alternatively, travelers have the option to apply for a multiple-entry visa for $60. Currently, there are no mandatory vaccination requirements for entering Egypt.
However, guests who travel with us receive visa services as a standard inclusion in their trip. For all nationalities eligible for visa on arrival, the visa fee is already included in the trip price. Upon arrival at the airport, our representative will assist in getting your passport stamped, allowing you to proceed directly to the luggage carousel.
For more detailed information, you can visit the official Egyptian eVisa website or contact the nearest Egyptian consulate or embassy.
To apply for an Egyptian tourist visa, you will need a passport with at least six months of validity and at least one blank page. Visa on arrival entry points in Egypt are available at the following airports:
- Cairo International Airport
- Hurghada International Airport
- St Catherine International Airport, St Catherine
- Borg El Arab International Airport, Alexandria
- Sharm El Sheikh International Airport
- Luxor International Airport
Egypt had been actively working to ensure the safety of tourists, and many areas in the country were considered safe for travel. However, it’s important to note that the safety situation can change, and it’s advisable to check the latest travel advisories and updates from your government’s foreign affairs department or embassy before planning your trip.
Here are some general safety tips for traveling to Egypt:
- Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated on the current political and security situation in Egypt through reliable news sources and government travel advisories.
- Follow Local Advice: While in Egypt, follow the advice of local authorities and respect any curfews or safety measures that may be in place.
- Be Cautious in Certain Areas: Some regions, particularly near the border areas, may have specific safety concerns. Research your itinerary and exercise caution in these areas.
- Secure Your Belongings: Like in any other destination, take precautions to secure your belongings and avoid displaying valuable items in public.
- Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs, traditions, and dress codes, especially when visiting religious sites.
Before traveling to Egypt, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional or travel medicine clinic to ensure that you are up to date on routine vaccinations and to discuss any additional health precautions. Here are some health considerations and precautions for traveling to Egypt:
- Routine Vaccinations: Ensure that your routine vaccinations, such as measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP), influenza, and polio, are up to date.
- Hepatitis A and B: Consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and hepatitis B, as these viruses can be transmitted through contaminated food, water, or bodily fluids.
- Typhoid: Typhoid vaccination is recommended, especially if you plan to eat street food or visit rural areas where sanitation may be an issue.
- Rabies: Depending on your activities and travel plans, a rabies vaccination may be advised. It’s particularly relevant if you’ll be in close contact with animals or plan to explore remote areas.
- Traveler’s Diarrhea: Traveler’s diarrhea is a common issue in Egypt. Carry diarrhea medication and practice good hygiene, such as handwashing and avoiding tap water.
- Food and Water Precautions: Be cautious about consuming food and beverages from street vendors. Stick to bottled water and avoid ice in your drinks.
- Mosquito-Borne Diseases: While the risk is generally low in Egypt, consider using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves and pants to protect against mosquito bites, which can transmit diseases like Zika and dengue.
- Sun Protection: Egypt’s climate can be extremely hot and sunny. Use sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay hydrated to avoid sunburn and heat-related illnesses.
- Medical Insurance: Ensure that you have comprehensive travel medical insurance that covers emergency medical expenses and evacuation.
- Medications: Bring any necessary prescription medications in their original packaging, along with a copy of your prescription. Also, carry a basic medical kit with essentials like pain relievers, bandages, and antiseptics.
The duration of a flight from the United States to Egypt can vary depending on your departure city and the specific flight route. On average:
- From New York to Cairo: It takes approximately 11 to 15 hours, depending on the flight route and any layovers.
- From Los Angeles to Cairo: The flight duration is typically around 22 hours, including layovers.
The exact duration may vary based on factors such as the airline, flight route, and layover times. It’s advisable to check with airlines for specific flight options and schedules. Delta, Air France, and other major carriers often operate flights to Egypt from various U.S. cities.
The best way to travel across longer distances in Egypt, such as from Cairo to Luxor, is by taking a domestic flight. For shorter distances and local exploration, it’s convenient to use private cars with a guide or choose organized tours.
Another popular and scenic way to explore Egypt is by taking a cruise along the Nile River. A Nile cruise typically runs between Luxor and Aswan, allowing travelers to discover the ancient civilizations and historic sites that flourished on the banks of the Nile. It provides a unique perspective on Egypt’s rich history and culture while offering a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
The time zone in Egypt is UTC+2 from October to April and UTC+3 from April to October.
When planning your trip to Egypt, here are some must-visit destinations and attractions:
- Cairo: Start your journey in the capital city where you can explore the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. Don’t miss the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, home to countless ancient artifacts.
- Luxor: Visit Luxor to delve deeper into the wonders of ancient Egypt. Explore the Valley of the Kings, Colossi of Memnon, and the impressive Temple of Ramesses III.
- Aswan: Aswan is known for its serene beauty and historic sites. Explore the Temple of Philae, Edfu, and Kom Ombo temple complexes.
- Red Sea Resorts: Consider adding a beach stay in Hurghada or El Quseir, where you can relax, swim, and snorkel in the stunning coral reefs of the Red Sea.
- Alexandria: Head north to Alexandria to discover its Greco-Roman history, including sites like the Qaitbay Citadel and the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa.
- Optional Jordan Extension: Many travelers combine their Egypt trip with a visit to Jordan to explore the ancient city of Petra and other historical sites.
The currency of Egypt is the Egyptian pound (LE or EGP), and it is divided into 100 piastres (PT). Banknotes are available in denominations of LE5, LE10, LE20, LE50, LE100, and LE200, while coins come in LE1, PT50, and PT25 denominations. You can use credit cards in larger hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for transactions in smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available in major towns, and currency exchange can be done at banks and Forex outlets.
Modern Standard Arabic is the official language of Egypt. However, you’ll predominantly hear people speaking the Egyptian dialect, a colloquial variety of Modern Standard Arabic with some distinct words and pronunciation. Egyptian Arabic is widely understood across the region because Egyptian cinema and soap operas are popular in the Arab world.
English is also commonly spoken in tourist areas, and many guides, hotel staff, and service workers are proficient in English. In larger cities and towns, you should have no trouble communicating in English. However, in more remote areas, especially in Upper Egypt, English proficiency may be limited, and it’s helpful to have some basic Arabic phrases for communication.
