Egypt is more than just pyramids and pharaohs. If you’re looking for a mix of adventure, culture, and hidden gems, this three-day itinerary will take you beyond the usual tourist path while still giving you a taste of Egypt’s rich history.
Day 1: Cairo’s Icons and Local Flavors
Start your journey with Egypt’s most famous landmark, the Pyramids of Giza. Arrive early to beat the crowds and explore these ancient wonders up close. Walk around the Great Pyramid, visit the Sphinx, and if you’re up for it, go inside one of the pyramids for a true time travel experience.
After a morning in the desert, head back into the city for lunch at Koshary Abou Tarek, a legendary spot in Downtown Cairo serving Egypt’s most iconic street food. Koshary is a mix of rice, lentils, pasta, and crispy onions topped with a spicy tomato sauce. It’s the ultimate fuel for an afternoon of exploration.
Next, visit the Grand Egyptian Museum if it’s open, or explore the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square. Inside, you’ll find treasures from ancient Egypt, including the famous golden mask of King Tutankhamun.
As the sun sets, make your way to Khan El Khalili, Cairo’s oldest market. Wander through the narrow alleys filled with colorful lanterns, handmade crafts, and the scent of spices. Stop for tea at El Fishawy, a historic café that has been serving mint tea for over 200 years.
End the night with a traditional Egyptian dinner at a local restaurant. Try dishes like grilled kofta, stuffed vine leaves, and fresh baladi bread straight from the oven.
Day 2: A Desert Escape in Fayoum
Leave Cairo early in the morning and head to Fayoum, a hidden oasis just a couple of hours away. Start your day in Tunis Village, a charming artists’ hub known for its pottery. Walk through the village, visit a local pottery workshop, and try your hand at making your own piece.
Next, head to Magic Lake, a breathtaking saltwater lake surrounded by golden dunes. The water changes colors depending on the sunlight, and it’s the perfect spot for a quick swim or just to soak in the scenery.
From there, make your way to the Samuel Dunes, an untouched stretch of desert perfect for sandboarding, off-roading, or just enjoying the silence of the Sahara. As the sun sets, settle in for a night of camping under the stars. Enjoy a Bedouin-style dinner by the fire, listen to traditional music, and experience the raw beauty of Egypt’s desert at night.
Day 3: Wadi Al Hitan & Back to Cairo
Wake up to a stunning sunrise over the dunes and have a simple breakfast before heading to Wadi Al Hitan, also known as the Valley of the Whales. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to ancient whale fossils that tell the story of evolution from land to sea. Walk along the trails and explore the open-air museum showcasing perfectly preserved skeletons from millions of years ago.
After soaking in this prehistoric wonder, make your way back to Cairo. If time allows, relax with a felucca ride on the Nile before preparing for your departure.
This itinerary blends Egypt’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and unique local experiences, giving you a taste of adventure and culture beyond the usual tourist path.