How much does it cost to go to Egypt? Full guide

Dreaming of exploring Egypt’s ancient wonders but unsure about the trip cost? A vacation in the land of pharaohs is often more affordable than a week in New York City.

Egypt isn’t just a treasure trove of history — it’s also a budget-friendly destination.  So, how much does it cost to go to Egypt?

Whether you’re a backpacker or luxury seeker, here’s your guide on planning that bucket-list Egyptian adventure.

Sunset tour on camels at the Pyramids of Egypt. Source: Unsplash

What is the average cost of a trip to Egypt?

An Egypt trip cost can range between $470 and $1,770 USD per person, excluding international flights and personal expenses. The cost of a day trip to Egypt or a long trip depends on several factors, such as:

• budget
• meal choices
• length of stay
• accommodation type
• mode of transportation
• sightseeing and activity choices
• travel season (peak, off-peak, or shoulder)

How much is a flight to Egypt?

A round-trip ticket to Cairo International Airport can cost between $600 and $1,200, depending on your departure location.

Prices for international flights tend to spike during peak travel seasons, so it’s best to plan ahead and book early to save money.

• Flights from New York: $600–$800 (economy)
• Flights from Chicago: $700–$900 (economy)
• Flights from Los Angeles: $800–$1,200 (economy)

Expect higher costs for first-class tickets, typically between $2,500 and $5,000.

Various factors influence the cost of travel to Egypt, making it essential to plan ahead to get the best deals.

Check out our detailed Egypt travel guide for comprehensive planning tips, but here are a few key factors that can influence your travel expenses:

• Seasonality: The best deals are usually during the low season (January–March). Flights are more expensive during Egypt’s peak tourist seasons: winter (October–November) and spring (March–April).
• Flexibility: Being open to adjusting your travel dates by a day or two can help you snag cheaper tickets.
• Booking in advance: Early booking often means significant savings on flights.

Wondering how much it costs to go to Egypt from different regions? Check out the table below for a detailed breakdown of flight prices by location.

Note: these prices are approximate ranges and may vary depending on factors such as booking time, seasonality, and availability. For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, it’s best to check with the specific airlines or travel websites directly.

How much does accommodation cost in Egypt?

You can expect to pay anywhere from $3 to $1,200 per night in Egypt, depending on where you stay. The best part? There’s something to suit every budget.

For an authentic experience, consider booking hotels, hostels, or guest houses in local neighborhoods. If an all-inclusive vacation is more your style, high-end resort towns are an excellent choice.

Luxury resorts

you’ll find a range of high-end options offering stunning views, exceptional amenities, and world-class service.

A couple can expect to pay $200 to $1,200 per night at resorts in popular destinations like Hurghada and Sharm El-Sheikh. 

In Cairo, luxury hotels along the Nile, such as the Four Seasons or St. Regis, provide a premium urban retreat with prices starting at $213 per night.

For a more exclusive experience, consider a luxury Nile cruise like the Oberoi Zahra, where a 7-night journey starts at $5,700 per couple. Seasonal demand, location, and amenities can influence pricing, so booking in advance is recommended.

Here’s a quick look at some other luxury accommodation options

Mid-range hotels

These hotels typically offer clean, spacious rooms with essential amenities like WiFi and air conditioning.

Many are conveniently located near key attractions, making them ideal for couples looking to explore without overspending.

With prices ranging from $30 to $150 per night, mid-range hotels give you more value for your money compared to luxury resorts.

Hostels

Budget travelers can find affordable hostels in local neighborhoods, especially in cities like Cairo and Luxor.

Prices start as low as $10 per night for basic accommodations. For a bit more privacy, consider simple guest houses, which range from $10-$40 per night.

Many also include extras like breakfast or communal spaces, making them ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want more than just a bed. 

Note: These are estimated average nightly costs. Actual prices may vary depending on season, amenities, and booking time. Expect a 30-50% increase during peak season.

How much does it cost to eat in Egypt?

Eating in Egypt can cost anywhere from $1 to $100 per meal, depending on your dining preferences. Whether you’re grabbing street food or indulging in fine dining, there’s something for every taste and budget.

Fine dining

If you’re in the mood for a luxurious meal, fine dining in Egypt offers a range of options featuring gourmet Egyptian and international cuisine.

Upscale restaurants like Sachi and Zooba, both featured on the World’s 50 Best MENA list, are popular picks. Expect to pay anywhere from 500 to 3,000 EGP (~$16-$100) per person, depending on the restaurant and menu. For traditional Egyptian cuisine with a fine dining twist, Abou El Sid is a must-visit.

Mid-range restaurants

For a sit-down meal that balances quality and affordability, mid-range restaurants are a great choice. A three-course meal for one person typically costs between 300 and 600 EGP (~$10-$20).

Local favorites like koshari, grilled meats, and hearty stews are common menu items. At smaller mid-range establishments, you might spend as little as 150 EGP (~$5) for a delicious, filling meal.

Street food

Street food in Egypt is where you’ll find the heart of its culinary culture. From ta’ameya (Egyptian falafel) to shawarma and koshari, meals from street vendors typically cost ~$1 to $3.

A generous serving of koshari, Egypt’s national dish, can be found for as little as 35-150 EGP (~$0.60-$2.50). If you’re exploring the streets of Cairo or Luxor, don’t miss out on grabbing a fresh falafel sandwich for 20-50 EGP (~$0.70-$1.50).

How much does it cost to move around in Egypt?

Egypt’s extensive transport network is both convenient and budget-friendly. For just a few dollars, you can travel within cities or between destinations during your Egypt trip.

However, costs will vary depending on your preferred mode of transportation and travel style.

Here’s a breakdown of transportation costs across different modes:

Domestic flights

Flying within Egypt typically costs between $80 and $170. For cheaper fares, consider booking early morning or late evening flights. EgyptAir, the main domestic carrier, is generally more reliable than budget airlines

Other airlines include Nile Air, and Air Cairo with routes from: 

• Cairo to Luxor
• Cairo to Aswan
• Cairo to Hurghada
• Cairo to Sharm El Sheikh
• Sharm El Sheikh to Luxor
• Sharm El Sheikh to Aswan

Trains

Train travel in Egypt can be pricier than flights, as tourists are charged special “foreigner prices.” The railway system offers a variety of services, including express, sleeper, and regular trains, catering to different budgets and comfort levels. Here’s what you can expect to pay: 

• Cairo to Alexandria:
  • First-class: 80 EGP (~$2.60)
  • Second-class: 65 EGP (~$2.10)
  • Talgo trains: First-class 150-200 EGP (~$5-$6.50)
• Cairo to Luxor:
  • First-class: 202 EGP (~$6.50)
  • Second-class: 114 EGP (~$3.70)
• Cairo to Aswan:
  • First-class: 230 EGP (~$7.40)
  • Second-class: 170 EGP (~$5.50)

You can buy tickets at stations, online through the Egyptian National Railways website, or via travel agencies. Booking in advance is a good idea, especially for sleeper trains and during peak seasons

Buses

Buses in Egypt are an affordable and convenient way to get around, whether you’re traveling within cities or between major destinations. 

• Local city buses: Public buses in cities like Cairo and Alexandria cost 5–15 EGP (~$0.15–$0.50), with air-conditioned options available for a slightly higher fare. Microbuses, small vans operating on short routes, charge between 2–10 EGP ($0.07–$0.30). While cheap, microbuses can be crowded and less regulated.
• Long-distance buses: For intercity travel, companies like Go Bus, Superjet, and Blue Bus offer a range of services from basic to luxury. Tickets from Cairo to Alexandria range between 30–115 EGP (~$1–$3.70), while longer routes like Cairo to Luxor or Hurghada cost around 225–255 EGP (~$7–$8). Luxury buses often include air-conditioning, reclining seats, and onboard WiFi for added comfort.
• Tourist buses: Tourist-focused services connect popular destinations like Hurghada and Sharm El-Sheikh. Prices are slightly higher, but these buses prioritize safety and comfort, often featuring amenities like reserved seating and snacks for purchase.

Private taxis or ride-sharing

Uber is widely available in cities like Cairo and Alexandria, offering transparent pricing and the ability to track your ride. Prices are calculated based on distance and time, with typical costs including:

• Short trips within Cairo: 10–30 EGP (~$0.40–$1.20)
• Cairo Airport to Downtown: 202 EGP (~$8.10)
• Downtown Cairo to Giza Pyramids: 207 EGP (~$8.30)

Apps like Careem, a local alternative to Uber, also operate in several Egyptian cities and provide similar services.

While white taxis with meters are an option, they often require negotiation as meters may not always be used. Typical pricing includes:

• Base fare: 5 EGP (~$0.15)
• Per kilometer fee: 2.50 EGP (~$0.08)

Unmetered black-and-white taxis are cheaper but require agreeing on a price beforehand, making them less reliable for tourists.

For longer trips or all-day hires, hiring a private driver is a practical choice. This is often arranged through hotels, travel agencies, or directly with Uber or Careem drivers.

Daily rates typically range between 1,200 and 1,500 EGP (~$40–$50) depending on the distance and duration.

How much do attractions and activities in Egypt cost?

You can visit many tourist spots and find various exciting things to do in Egypt without spending a fortune.

Sightseeing and activities cost around $50-$100 for a three-day trip. Students can purchase entrance tickets to major tourist sites at a 50% discount.

Pyramids

The entry fees for visiting the pyramids vary depending on the specific sites:

• Giza Pyramids Complex: General entry is 700 EGP (~$23) for adults and 350 EGP (~$12) for students. If you want to step inside the Great Pyramid of Khufu, tickets are 900 EGP ($30) for adults and 450 EGP (~$15) for students. Access to the Pyramid of Menkaure costs 220 EGP (~$7) for adults and 110 EGP ($4) for students.
• Saqqara: Entry to the site is 450 EGP (~$15) for adults and 225 EGP (~$8) for students. Visiting the Step Pyramid of Djoser costs 220 EGP (~$7), while an all-inclusive ticket covering all major sites is 900 EGP (~$30).
• Dahshur: Tickets for this lesser-visited but stunning site are 150 EGP (~$5) for adults and 75 EGP (~$3) for students.

Museums

Whether you’re an archaeology buff or just curious about what’s behind those glass cases, here’s what you need to know about the must-visit museums and their costs:

• The Egyptian Museum: Home to the world’s largest collection of Pharaonic artifacts, including treasures from King Tutankhamun’s tomb, tickets cost start at 550 EGP (~$18) for adults and 275 EGP (~$9) for students.
• The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC): This museum takes you through Egypt’s history, from prehistoric times to modernity, with highlights like the Royal Mummies Hall. Tickets are 500 EGP (~$16) for adults and 250 EGP (~$8) for students.
• The Museum of Islamic Art: With an intricate collection of ceramics, textiles, and manuscripts, this museum reflects centuries of Islamic artistry. Entry costs 340 EGP (~$7) for adults and 170 EGP (~$3.35) for students.
• The Coptic Museum: Displaying stunning artifacts that highlight the fusion of Pharaonic, Roman, and Christian cultures, tickets are 280 EGP (~$6) for adults and 140 EGP (~$3) for students.

Nile cruises

Sailing along the Nile is one of the most iconic ways to experience Egypt. Nile cruises generally cost between $450 and $1,200 per person, depending on the type of cruise, level of luxury, and duration. Most cruises last between 3 and 7 nights, with some extending to longer itineraries.

Types of Nile cruises: 

• Standard Nile Cruises: These are the most budget-friendly options, perfect for travelers looking for a comfortable experience without extra frills. Prices start at around $450 per person for a 3–4-night cruise.
• Luxury Nile Cruises: Offering premium amenities like fine dining, spas, and upscale cabins, luxury cruises typically range from $790 to $1,500 per person.
• Dahabiya Cruises: These smaller, intimate sailboats provide an exclusive and quiet journey, often costing upwards of $1,200 per person for 6–8-day itineraries.
• Lake Nasser Cruises: Sailing on Lake Nasser, these cruises focus on Nubian monuments like Abu Simbel, with prices starting at $750 per person.

Cost of staying connected in Egypt

Whether you’re navigating bustling streets with a map, checking in with loved ones, or booking a last-minute ticket you need a stable and reliable internet. Sure, public WiFi might sound like an option, but let’s be real—how often is it fast, reliable, or safe?

And roaming charges can quickly burn a hole in your pocket, with rates that climb higher than the pyramids.

That’s why Holafly’s eSIM for Egypt is your best bet.  With unlimited data, you can customize your plan to match the exact length of your trip — starting at just $7.90 for one day and going as low as $3.21 per day for a 90-day plan.

You can also share your internet connection via hotspot for up to 500MB per day for other devices. Holafly runs on Orange Egypt, one of the country’s most reliable networks, so you can enjoy strong 3G, 4G, LTE, and even 5G speeds in cities like Cairo, Alexandria, Giza, and Hurghada. 

You can buy an eSIM from the Holalfy app (for Android and iOS) or the website, scan the QR code sent in your email and set up your eSIM in around five minutes!

So how much does Hoalfy eSIM for Egypt cost?

Final thoughts on how much is a trip to Egypt

Egypt has something for every budget. Customize your Egypt trip cost based on your travel preferences, from flights and accommodation to food, transportation, and activities.

With thoughtful planning, you can explore Egypt’s ancient wonders and vibrant culture without overspending. 

And with Holafly’s unlimited data eSIM by your side, staying connected is one less thing to worry about.

Plus, the 24/7 support is just a WhatsApp text away and speaks your language. Whether you’re sharing moments, finding your next stop, or booking a spontaneous adventure, Holafly ensures you’re online without hassle.

Internet as unlimited as your Egypt adventures!

Stay online in Egypt with Holafly’s eSIM.
Instant setup, unlimited data, and 24/7 support—all for a price that’s easy on your wallet.

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Based in Mumbai, Sharan Kaur Phillora has 6+ years of experience in the B2B writing industry. She has written for brands like Pocket52, Nexweave, Maze, NaNLABS, and Userpilot. When she's not working, Sharan can be found immersed in murder mystery novels or exploring Mumbai's streets on her bicycle in search of the perfect slice of pizza.

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