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Travel diary · Egypt

Our 15 days in Egypt, and where to stay in every stop

Sailing the Nile at sunset in Egypt

Egypt was one of the most rewarding trips we have ever done. In two weeks we went from the pyramids of Giza to a remote desert oasis, the temples of Luxor and the Red Sea, and it never once felt repetitive. Here is our exact 15-day route, what each stop is like, and a map to book a hotel in every single one. Our full day-by-day guide is completely free at the end.

Cairo & Giza, days 1 to 3

You will most likely fly into Cairo first. Yes it is busy and a little chaotic, but it is fascinating and the best introduction to the country. Stay out near the pyramids in Giza so you can watch the sun set over them, then do the Great Egyptian Museum and the Khan el-Khalili markets.

Browse and book a stay in Cairo

Stay near the Giza pyramids for the best views. Tap any hotel to check dates and prices.

The Siwa Oasis, days 4 to 6

From Giza we booked a private driver to Siwa, a remote, palm-filled oasis deep in the desert. The drive is long (8 to 9 hours) but so worth it. Float in the Salt Lakes, swim in Cleopatra's Spring and watch the sunset from the Mountain of the Dead.

🛏️ We stayed at Hotel Talid and loved it, a lovely boutique spot close to the restaurants and sights. Book Hotel Talid here.

Luxor, days 7 to 11

Luxor, the old capital of Ancient Egypt on the Nile, is a must if you want to really understand the history. The Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut and Karnak are all here. Stay on or near the Nile so you can watch the feluccas drift past at sunset.

Browse and book a stay in Luxor

A Nile-side stay is the one to book here. Tap any hotel for dates and prices.

Hurghada, days 11 to 13

From Luxor it is around four hours to Hurghada, the perfect place to slow down on the Red Sea. Snorkelling, dolphin tours and the Blue Lagoon boat trip are all worth doing, and the water is unreal.

Browse and book a stay in Hurghada

Resorts right on the Red Sea. Tap any to check dates and prices.

Dahab, days 13 to 15

Dahab completely stole our hearts. After weeks of go-go-go, this laid-back diving town on the Red Sea was exactly what we needed. Snorkel or dive the famous Blue Hole, float in the Blue Lagoon, and learn to dive if you never have. It is the perfect place to end the trip.

Browse and book a stay in Dahab

Laid-back stays steps from the water. Tap any hotel for dates and prices.

The full guide

Want the whole 15-day plan? It's free.

This is the overview. The full guide has the exact day-by-day route, where we stayed, what to do and see in each stop, how to get between them, and a clickable Google Maps link on every single spot. It is a live, interactive Notion guide, and it is completely free.

Get the free Egypt guide

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