Planning a 7-Day Egypt Itinerary: Cairo and Luxor

Spend 3 days in Cairo to cover the pyramids and museums, then take a 1-hour flight to Luxor for 4 days of temples and tomb exploration. Use domestic flights to save time and prioritize early morning starts to avoid the intense midday desert heat.

1. Book domestic flights in advance. Book a round-trip flight from Cairo (CAI) to Luxor (LXR) via EgyptAir. Do this at least 4 weeks ahead to keep costs under $150. It saves you 10-12 hours of train travel.
2. Secure your entry visa. Purchase a 25 USD visa at the airport upon arrival or apply for an e-Visa online at least 7 days before your trip.
3. Hire a private guide for major sites. Hire a licensed Egyptologist for your first day at the Pyramids and the Valley of the Kings. The history is dense, and a guide will prevent you from being constantly hassled by local vendors.
4. Schedule morning-only outings. Plan all outdoor sightseeing between 7:00 AM and 11:00 AM. In the afternoon, retreat to your hotel or museum AC to avoid dehydration and heat exhaustion.

Do I need to tip for everything?

Yes, baksheesh (tipping) is a standard part of Egyptian culture. Keep small bills (5, 10, 20 EGP) handy for bathroom attendants, drivers, and porters.

Is it safe to drink tap water?

No. Stick strictly to bottled or filtered water, even for brushing your teeth if you have a sensitive stomach.