Egypt is a dream destination. Pyramids, ancient temples, and vibrant bazaars but many travellers assume it’s expensive. Egypt is one of the most budget-friendly countries to explore if you know how to plan. Here’s your ultimate guide to experiencing Egypt on a shoestring budget.
1. Best time to visit
Travel during shoulder months like May or September to score deals on accommodation and avoid crowds.
2. Affordable Flight Options to Egypt
Flight deals: Use flight comparison tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights.
Tip: Flying into major hubs like Cairo is usually cheaper. Flexible dates will save you more.
3. Getting Around Egypt
Trains: The overnight sleeper train from Cairo to Luxor or Aswan is affordable and saves on a night’s stay.
Buses: Go Bus and Blue Bus are cheap, clean, and comfortable.
Public transport: Cairo’s metro system is less than $0.25 per ride!
4. Budget Accommodation
Hostels & budget hotels: Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan have dorms starting from $5–10/night.
Airbnb: Great for longer stays or if you want a kitchen to cook meals.
Local guesthouses: Charming and often include breakfast.
5. Eating Cheap
Street food: Ful (bean stew), taameya (Egyptian falafel), and koshari (pasta, lentils & rice) cost $0.50–$2.
Local restaurants: Eat where locals go,meals can be under $5.
Tip: Bottled water is essential and cheap (avoid tap water).
6. Top Budget-Friendly Attractions
Pyramids of Giza: Entry around $10 (skip the camel ride unless you negotiate hard).
Egyptian Museum: Around $6 for entry; hours of history inside.
Khan El Khalili Market: Free to explore, great for souvenirs and people watching.
Luxor Temples, Valley of the Kings, Aswan sights: Combine sites into a day tour to save money.
Additional Tips
Avoid scams by booking transport through your hotel or known companies.
Dress modestly and respect local customs to avoid unwanted attention.
Bargaining is a normal practice in markets and some taxi services.
Conclusion
Egypt offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience even on a tight budget. With thoughtful planning, street food feasts and authentic experiences await every kind of traveller. So pack your bag and dive into the magic of Egypt without the financial stress.
