Egypt Destination Guide for Families
Considered by many to be the birthplace of humanity, Egypt offers families wonderous adventures filled with awe-inspiring history (even for the little ones), fascination at the way of life and death of the ancient Egyptians, unique experiences (such as interacting with crocodiles), and more. Most seasoned family travelers have Egypt in their crosshairs but worry about safety, accessibility, and planning the perfect trip to Egypt.
Egypt has made significant strides in improving accessibility and safety, making it easier for families to explore and enjoy all that this ancient land has to offer.
While aggressive vendors, extreme heat, large crowds, and a unique culture may pose challenges, they are not insurmountable. In fact, they are part of the adventure. Egypt, our 49th country as a family, has left us yearning for more. The layers of history in Egypt are like a puzzle waiting to be explored, making each visit a unique experience.
Like many other Islamic-dominated countries, respecting the local culture is important. Temples and sacred sites require modest dress (sleeves and shorts or skirts to the knees) or covering. Consider bringing a sari or scarf to help with this.
Luxury accommodations and hands-on tour guides allow a luxurious visit to Egypt for families. Alternatively, you can stay in local Airbnbs, dine with locals for a few dollars or less, and get nitty gritty negotiating in the souks in downtown Cairo.
Kids will love sleeping under the stars on a felucca (local wooden sailboat) on the Nile (Nile Empire), swimming in the endless sunshine at your hotel pool, holding crocodiles, and more. Egypt has so much to offer families.
Top 5 Things To Do as a Family in Egypt
1. Visiting the Great Pyramids tops everyone’s lists for their Egyptian trip, and for good reason. Seeing and being able to touch these massive structures in person cements awe and fascination in all who visit. Several pyramids allow entry into the inner chambers and you can hop on a camel or a horse-drawn carriage ride to see the pyramids and the entire Giza Complex from another angle.
2. What is cooler than exploring ancient tombs carved out of rock on the side of a mountain, disguised as nothing but a desert valley? Exploring lots of them! The Valley of the Kings in Luxor appears to be nothing special until you learn there are 60+ discovered tombs hidden in these rocks. The ancient pharaohs hid their treasure hoards and bodies here to try and prevent looting, but they were betrayed by the very workers who helped them build these underground portals to the afterlife. Kids love entering these ancient tombs, some still compete with their massive coffins.
3. We loved swimming in the Nile and cooling off from the heat. However, seeing Egypt while enjoying a Nile cruise can be a lovely way to travel! Cruise down the famous river , from the luxurious to the budget level, while exploring temples and sights along the way.
4. Visit the pharaohs of old in person at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. This impressive museum houses over 14,000 ancient artifacts, including ancient bread, the first braces in the world, and golden treasure. However, the 22 mummies in the basement showroom bring you face to face with the pharaohs of old. These guys thought they were deities, and kids can examine them face to face!
5. Soar during sunrise in the world’s greatest outdoor museum during a hot air balloon ride over Luxor. With hundreds of successful flights each year, many tourists enjoy seeing Luxor from the sky before enjoying the sights on land. We were awestruck by this amazing vista at some of the cheapest rates worldwide for a hot air balloon.
Other Family Experiences in Egypt To Enjoy
Visit a Nubian village house and have henna painted on your hands during a Nubian Village visit. Our tour guide took us on a lovely boat ride from Aswan down the Nile to this lovely village where we had lunch and dipped into the Nile for a quick swim. Don’t forget to bargain for the souvenirs!
2. Visit the Cave: Jesus, Mary, and Joseph’s Refuge
Christians will enjoy seeing the underground cave where Jesus, Mary and Joseph reportedly lived for three months when they fled from Jerusalem and King Herod. You can see the ancient well they drank from and a church now sits over this cave.
3. The Muhammad Ali Mosque in Cairo
This mosque is patterned after the Blue Mosque in Turkey and stuns even the smallest visitor. Modest attire is required, so you may need to rent a covering for women not wearing modest enough clothing. As this is a place of worship, you’ll need to prime your visit appropriately or use a tour guide to visit. The sweeping views of Cairo outside the mosque, completely with a peek at the pyramids on a clear day, delight everyone.
4. Hatshepsut’s Temple: A Story of Power and Erasure
Egypt was ruled for over 20 years by one powerful woman, Queen Hatsepshut who declared herself ruler. While her reign was successful by many accounts, her step-son who ruled after her tried to erase much of her mark on ancient Egypt. You can visit her temple in Luxor and see where her image has been scratched off the rock facades.
5. Karnak Temple: A Divine Marvel
Revel in the splendor of a 75 acre temple at the Karnak Temple in Luxor. The ancient Egyptians built on the scale of the Gods, not the scale of men. This presents itself nowhere better than Karnak, surrounded by 134 massive pillars in the great hall alone. With each column having a diameter of nearly 10 feet, you start to wonder how in the world the ancient Egyptians not only built the temples but also managed to survive thousands of years as well.
You can do this when you visit the Great Pyramids…at least in your pictures. Challenge the kids to come up with all kinds of fun poses with the Sphinx in the background. You can also learn about the mummification rites in the temple preceding the Sphinx.
Enjoy some delicious shawarma in Cairo. Our guides with Nile Empire picked us up some of the most delicious shawarma we’d ever had. We liked it so much we ate it two days in a row! Not using a guide? Here are some highly rated options to check out on your own.
8. Float Down the Nile in a Wooden Felucca
These are the same boats that have been connecting people on the Nile for centuries. They are iconic symbols of the area, and you can take a private tour on one for as low as $15-20 with some good negotiation. You can also sleep overnight on one with a more modern boat moored next to you for a toilet and modern conveniences. Kids will love the adventure of sleeping on the Nile under the stars.
9. Cuddles With Kittens While Viewing the Last Known Hieroglyphics in Egypt
You can experience this in the dreamy, romantical Philae Temple in Aswan. Only accessible by water, this temple was moved from its original location when the Aswan Dam raised the water level. A nighttime light and sound show brings the temple to life in new ways. (Check Lucy’s photo with a kitten, so cute!)
10. Visit Abu Simbel
Speaking of moving amazing temples, a visit to Abu Simbel is a must for those interested in amazing temples. Ramses II built two massive twin temples, one for himself and one for Nefertari, his favorite wife among 200 or more wives. It’s very rare to see temples dedicated to the queens. You can even time your visit on February and October 21 when the sun shines through the carefully crafted peephole into the holy of holies, shining sunlight onto Ramses with other deities, marking himself on the same level as the Gods. Most impressive about this structure is the fact that it would be underwater if not for a 40 million+ project by Unesco to move the temple to higher ground.
While very touristy, taking a Nile River Dinner Cruise is a fun way to experience the Nile in the evening. This dinner buffet is complete with performances and audience interaction. It’s not for everyone, but the views from the top deck are stunning.
Travel Costs for Your Family Trip to Egypt
Airfare
The cost of flights to Egypt varies depending on the departure location and time of booking. On average, a round-trip ticket for a family of four can range from $1,200 to $2,500. Check Rates Here .
Accommodation
Options in Egypt range from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. On average, expect to pay between $50 to $200 per night for a family room, depending on the location and amenities.
Hotels near the pyramids
- Pyramids Valley : Enjoy stunning views of the pyramids from this conveniently located hotel.
- Cairo Hotels Best View Pyramids Hotel : Experience unparalleled vistas of the pyramids right from your room.
- Cairo Hotels Marriott Mena House Cairo : Immerse yourself in luxury with breathtaking views of the pyramids.
- Cairo Hotels Elite Pyramids Boutique Hotel : Indulge in boutique luxury with a prime location near the pyramids.
- Cairo Hotels Pyramid Front Hotel : Stay in comfort just steps away from the iconic pyramids.
- Cairo Hotels Grand Nile Tower : Experience lavish accommodations and panoramic views of the Nile.
Transportation
Public transportation, such as buses and trains, is affordable in Egypt. Taxis and rideshare services are also available and relatively inexpensive. Budget around $20 to $50 per day for transportation.
Meals
Dining out in Egypt can be affordable, especially at local eateries and street food stalls. On average, budget around $20 to $50 per person per day for meals, depending on your dining preferences. (We like to tip between 10% – 20%). Check TripAdvisor options
Sightseeing
Entrance fees to popular attractions in Egypt, such as the Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum, vary. Budget around $50 to $100 per person for sightseeing activities.
Explore top-rated tours and guided experiences in Cairo, including thrilling day trips and insightful visits to museums. Discover the wonders of the Giza Pyramids with a camel ride and tickets included, or opt for a private half-day tour with a photographer to capture unforgettable moments amidst these ancient marvels.
Miscellaneous
Don’t forget to budget for miscellaneous expenses such as souvenirs, tips, and travel insurance. Budget an additional $100 to $200 per person for miscellaneous expenses.
How To Keep Your Family Safe in Egypt
When planning your family trip to Egypt, ensuring your family’s safety is crucial. Egypt is a land rich in history and culture, and by following these essential safety tips, you can enjoy a memorable and secure experience with your family.
1. Stay in touristy areas
- Stick to well-known tourist destinations and areas with a high concentration of visitors. (Recommended by 7WayFinders – Nile Empire )
- Avoid venturing into unfamiliar or secluded areas, especially at night.
- Choose accommodation in reputable hotels located in tourist-friendly neighborhoods. (Check recommended hotels in our last post)
2. Some tour guides provide extra security
- When booking tours or excursions to the Nile Empire, opt for reputable tour operators that prioritize safety and security.
- Inquire about the safety measures taken by the tour company, such as the presence of trained security personnel or licensed guides.
- Follow the instructions and guidelines provided by your tour guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
3. Only tour during daytime hours. Some roads are closed completely overnight until 4 or 5 am
- Plan your sightseeing activities during daylight hours when visibility is optimal and tourist sites are typically more crowded and monitored.
- Be aware of local regulations and restrictions, as some attractions may have specific opening and closing times.
- Avoid traveling on roads or exploring remote areas during the night, as certain routes may be closed or less secure after dark.
Top recommended:
What To Eat in Egypt With Kids
Trying local cuisine is part of the adventure when traveling with kids. Egypt offers a variety of delicious and kid-friendly dishes that will make your family’s dining experiences memorable. Here are some must-try foods in Egypt for families that I definitely recommend:
Koshary: This traditional Egyptian dish consists of a hearty mix of rice, pasta, lentils, chickpeas, and crispy fried onions, topped with a tangy tomato sauce and garlic vinegar dressing. It’s flavorful, filling, and loved by locals and visitors alike.
Falafel: These crispy chickpea fritters are a favorite street food snack in Egypt. Served in pita bread with tahini sauce and salad, falafel makes for a tasty and convenient meal option for kids.
Taameya (Egyptian falafel): Similar to falafel but made with fava beans instead of chickpeas, taameya is another popular street food item in Egypt. It’s often enjoyed as a sandwich or wrapped in flatbread with vegetables and sauces.
Shawarma: A Middle Eastern favorite, shawarma consists of thinly sliced meat (typically beef or chicken) wrapped in pita bread with tahini sauce, garlic sauce, and salad. It’s a flavorful and satisfying option for kids who enjoy savory meats.
Hawawshi: This Egyptian meat pie features seasoned ground meat (usually beef or lamb) stuffed inside a pocket of dough and baked or grilled until golden brown. It’s a delicious handheld meal that kids are sure to enjoy.
Where To Stay With Kids In Egypt
Egypt offers a variety of family-friendly accommodations that cater to different needs and budgets. From luxury hotels with stunning views to mid-range options providing comfort and convenience, there are excellent choices in major cities and tourist destinations. Here are some top recommendations for where to stay with kids in Egypt.
Cairo
- Conrad Cairo: Located in the heart of Cairo overlooking the Nile River, this luxury hotel offers spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and various dining options. *(Mid-range – From $180 per night)
- InterContinental Cairo Semiramis: Situated along the Nile Corniche, this hotel features family-friendly amenities such as a kids’ club, outdoor pool, and multiple dining venues. *(Luxury- From $200 per night)
Giza
- Marriott Mena House, Cairo: This historic hotel near the Pyramids of Giza offers elegant rooms, lush gardens, and a pool, providing a serene retreat for families. *(Luxury – From $210 per night)
- Giza Pyramids View Inn: This hotel offers cozy rooms and stunning pyramid views from a rooftop terrace, perfect for your Egyptian adventure.*(Mid-range – From $84 per night)
Aswan
- Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan: Nestled on the banks of the Nile River, this luxurious hotel boasts colonial-era charm, beautifully appointed rooms, and a variety of dining options. *(Luxury – From $350 per night)
- Mövenpick Resort Aswan: Set amidst lush gardens and overlooking the Nile, this family-friendly resort features a children’s play area, swimming pools, and a range of recreational activities. *(Mid-range – From $180 per night)
Abu Simbel
- Seti Abu Simbel Lake Resort: This hotel offers comfortable rooms with stunning views of Lake Nasser. Families can enjoy the outdoor pool and terrace while taking in the tranquil surroundings. *(Luxury – From $225 per night)
Luxor
- Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa: Located on the East Bank of the Nile, this resort offers spacious rooms, a large swimming pool, and a kids’ club, making it an ideal choice for families.*(Mid-range – From $111 per night)
- Steigenberger Nile Palace Luxor Hotel & Convention Center: Situated along the Nile River, this hotel features family-friendly amenities including a children’s pool, playground, and multiple dining options. *(Mid-range – From $99 per night)
How To Travel Around Egypt With Kids
Traveling around Egypt with kids can be an incredible experience filled with history and adventure. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, here are some tips and considerations:
Dealing with Vendors:
- Egypt thrives on tourism, and vendors at top spots can be quite aggressive. Ignoring them is best if you are not interested.
- Teach your kids to say “La” in Arabic, which means no, to politely decline unwanted offers.
- Warn your kids not to accept “gifts” from vendors, as they may expect payment in return.
Bathroom Availability:
- Bathrooms can be tricky to find at tourist sites. Familiarize yourself with the locations of bathrooms within major attractions like the Great Pyramid Complex.
- Encourage your kids to use the restroom when available to avoid inconvenience during your sightseeing.
Interaction with Animals:
- Dogs and cats are common at major sites in Egypt. Teach your kids how to interact with them safely and respectfully.
- Discourage feeding animals within crowded areas or restaurants to avoid unwanted attention.
Considerations During Ramadan:
- Be aware that visiting Egypt during Ramadan may affect your travel experience, as some attractions may have limited hours or closures.
- Plan your meals accordingly, as many locals are fasting during the day. Speak up if you need to stop for lunch, especially if traveling with hungry kids.
Shopping and Tour Guides:
- Gift shops are abundant in Egypt and may offer similar items to those sold by vendors. Compare prices and negotiate when shopping.
- Be cautious of tour guides who may take you to shops where they receive commissions. Exercise skepticism and negotiate prices.
Educational Preparation:
- Spark your children’s curiosity about ancient Egyptian history before your trip by watching YouTube videos or reading books together.
- Encourage questions and discussions about the significance of the pyramids and other historical landmarks you’ll visit.
Guided Tours and Safety:
- Consider hiring a knowledgeable guide to navigate complex sites like the pyramids and provide insights into their history.
- Ensure your children stay within sight at all times and follow safety instructions provided by your guide.
Hydration and Sun Protection:
- Egypt’s climate can be harsh, so pack plenty of water, sunscreen, hats, and lightweight clothing to protect against the sun.
- Schedule visits during cooler parts of the day to minimize exposure to extreme temperatures, especially for young children.
Flexibility and Rest:
- Plan breaks and rest periods as needed, especially for younger children who may tire quickly.
- Choose activities that cater to your family’s interests and energy levels to ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone.
Capture Memories:
- Encourage your kids to document their experiences through drawings, photos, or journal entries using cameras like Insta360, GoPro Mini or Sony A7iii.
- These memories will serve as cherished keepsakes of your family’s journey to one of the world’s most iconic destinations.
Take A Family Tour Around Egypt
We used a guide, Nile Empire, which I’d highly recommend for Egypt. We often make our own way when traveling as a family, but some places feel a bit unknown without a guide. We thought our guide experience was 100% worth it.
Discover a range of exciting tours in Cairo and Giza offered by GetYourGuide. Explore iconic landmarks like the Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, Saqqara, and Memphis on a comprehensive full-day tour. Or opt for a half-day tour to marvel at the Pyramids and Sphinx up close. Dive into Egypt’s rich history with a guided tour of the Pyramids, Sphinx, and Egyptian Museum. For an unforgettable experience, embark on a Giza Pyramids tour with camel ride and tickets included, or enjoy a private half-day tour with a photographer. Explore nearby attractions with tours such as a felucca ride on the Nile, a visit to the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, or a dinner cruise on the Nile River. Venture further to Luxor for a private tour of the West Bank Kings and Queens with lunch included. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure with GetYourGuide tours near Cairo.
Best Ways for Families To Travel Around Egypt
Planes
Flying between major cities in Egypt is efficient and convenient, especially for families with limited time.
EgyptAir is the national airline of Egypt and offers domestic flights between major cities like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Prices for domestic flights vary depending on the route and time of booking but generally range from $50 to $200 per person for a one-way ticket.
Buses
Bus travel is a cost-effective option for families looking to explore Egypt’s cities and landmarks at a slower pace.
Go Bus and Super Jet are two reputable bus companies in Egypt that operate routes between major cities like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Fares for bus tickets depend on the route and class of service but typically range from $10 to $30 per person for a one-way ticket.
Private Vans
Hiring a private van with a driver is a convenient option for families who prefer flexibility and personalized service.
Private tour operators like Emo Tours Egypt and Egypt Tailor Made offer customizable itineraries and private transportation services for families. Prices for private van rentals vary depending on the duration of the tour and the size of the vehicle but generally start from $100 to $200 per day.
Nile River Cruises
Exploring Egypt’s famous landmarks along the Nile River is a unique and memorable experience for families.
Oberoi Philae and Sonesta Nile Cruises are reputable cruise companies that offer family-friendly Nile River cruises with comfortable accommodations and guided tours. Prices for Nile River cruises vary depending on the duration of the cruise, the level of luxury, and the itinerary, but typically start from $200 to $500 per person per night.
Family-Friendly Resources for Booking Your Trip to Egypt
When booking your trip to Egypt, consider factors such as budget, travel dates, accommodation preferences, and the ages of your children to choose the best resources and options for your family’s needs. Booking in advance and researching reputable providers can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for your family.
Research and connect with local tour operators in Egypt who specialize in family-friendly tours and activities. They can provide personalized recommendations, local insights, and flexible booking options to ensure a memorable experience for your family.
Expedia offers a wide range of family-friendly accommodations, flights, and vacation packages to Egypt. Their website and mobile app provide user-friendly search tools and filters to help you find the best deals for your family’s needs.
Booking.com features a variety of family-friendly hotels, resorts, and apartments in Egypt, with options to filter by family amenities such as swimming pools, kids’ clubs, and family rooms. They also offer flexible booking options and excellent customer service.
TripAdvisor provides traveler reviews, recommendations, and booking options for accommodations, tours, and attractions in Egypt. Their family-friendly filters and expert advice can help you plan a memorable and stress-free trip for your family.
Airbnb offers unique and family-friendly accommodations in Egypt, including apartments, villas, and houses suitable for families. Many hosts provide amenities such as kitchens, laundry facilities, and child-friendly spaces to make your stay comfortable.
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