Egypt is an amazing country known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. To help plan your trip within your budget, our travel cost guide has everything you need for your journey. With tips and prices for hotels, food, activities, and transit, you can enjoy every moment without worrying about your budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Egypt?
You should plan to spend around $19 (E£956) per day on your vacation in Egypt. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $8.13 (E£401) on meals
- $2.72 (E£134) on local transportation
- $14 (E£700) on hotels
A one week trip to Egypt for two people costs, on average, $272 (E£13,384). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$136
E£6,692
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$272
E£13,384
-
One Month
Per person
$582
E£28,680
-
One Week
For a couple
$272
E£13,384
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$543
E£26,768
-
One Month
For a couple
$1,164
E£57,360
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Egypt cost?
A one week trip to Egypt usually costs around $136 (E£6,692) for one person and $272 (E£13,384) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Egypt on average costs around $272 (E£13,384) for one person and $543 (E£26,768) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Egypt will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Egypt on average costs around $582 (E£28,680) for one person and $1,164 (E£57,360) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Independent Travel
Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.
All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.
Is Egypt expensive to visit?
Egypt is a very affordable destination to visit. It is in the top 10% of countries in the world for its affordability. Many budget travelers enjoy spending long periods of time exploring this country in depth.
Within Africa, Egypt is very affordable compared to the other countries. It is in the top 10% of countries in Africa for its affordability. Very few countries in the region are as affordable as Egypt.
Egypt boasts a wide variety of attractions and accommodations, catering to visitors with different budgets and travel styles. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate hostels in Cairo, Dahab, and Luxor, but there are also luxurious hotel options, plus mid-range stays perfect for families or couples.
Sure, Egypt can cost a lot, but with smart choices like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities, you can stretch your budget further.
On average, budget travelers spend $8 (E£369) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $20 (E£956) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $52 (E£2,548) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Egypt.
For more details, see Is Egypt Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Egypt?
The average Egypt trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Egypt travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Egypt cost?
Egypt on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$2.84
(E£140)
|
$7.10
(E£350)
|
$17
(E£862)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$1.02
(E£50)
|
$2.72
(E£134)
|
$7.75
(E£382)
|
|
Food 2
|
$3.06
(E£151)
|
$8.13
(E£401)
|
$23
(E£1,119)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$2.10
(E£103)
|
$5.38
(E£265)
|
$14
(E£689)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$0-1
(E£14-43)
|
$1-2
(E£36-108)
|
$2-5
(E£88-263)
|
Cairo, Egypt
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's essential to have a grounded and realistic perspective on your budget. While many believe they can travel as "budget" travelers on a mere $8 a day like a backpacker, the reality is that most people struggle to enjoy that style of travel. Consider what makes you happy and how you've traveled before. Do you prefer the comfort of resorts, the convenience of vacation rentals, or the simple camaraderie of hostels? Is dining out a top priority for you? Do you plan to visit the major attractions? Your answers to these questions will certainly impact your overall travel budget.
What is a budget traveler, anyway?
Many people might hear that you can explore Egypt for just $8 a day, but if you're not ready to sacrifice some comforts, be prepared to spend quite a bit more.
Backpackers often manage to stick to this tight budget, but it usually means sleeping in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest eateries or grabbing fast food, relying on public transport or walking everywhere, and limiting themselves to free attractions.
Fortunately, Egypt has a large number of hostels. You'll find the greatest concentration in Cairo, Dahab, and Luxor.
Do You Fit the Profile of an Average Traveler?
If you're traveling as a couple or family, you'll probably want to stay in a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at popular restaurants, and visit major museums and attractions that require entry fees. You'll want to visit the major attractions, sights, and landmarks. After all, most activities do come with a price tag. With that in mind, you should realistically plan for a daily budget of about $20 per person.
There are a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals in Egypt. If you're traveling with others, you'll share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, so costs will be split accordingly, saving money. In places like Cairo, Dahab, and Sharm el-Sheikh, which are particularly family-friendly, you'll find hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Also, in Cairo, Guardian Guest House is a good kid-friendly option, and in Dahab, Dahab Paradise is also terrific. You'll find more hotels that cater to families and couples in our hotel guide for Egypt here.
Looking to Travel in Luxury?
For a trip filled with top-notch service and every possible comfort, expect your budget to reach around $52 per day, per person. Staying in high-end accommodations, enjoying gourmet meals, going on lavish adventures, and hiring personal drivers comes with a luxury price tag. You'll be in the company of the wealthy in locations like Luxor and Alexandria. Another option would be to splurge on a multi-day high-end tour that takes care of everything for you, such as Egypt in 10 days with Alexandria & 5* Nile Cruise - offered by Egypt For Americans.
Accommodation Budget in Egypt
Egypt has a wide range of accommodation prices, and it can be surprising how much prices fluctuate. Budget hotels can often be much cheaper than higher-end places, and during peak season, everything costs much more. For a better deal, try visiting in the low season, and book early to save money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Egypt for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $14 (E£700). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $7.10 (E£350) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Egypt? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Local Transportation Budget in Egypt
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $2.72 (E£134) per person, per day, on local transportation in Egypt. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Egypt is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Local Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$2.72
E£134
The numbers below highlight common transportation expenses in Egypt, gathered from actual travelers. These prices give a good estimate of what you're likely to spend while getting around the city. However, your personal costs will depend on your travel style, since taxis and hired cars tend to be much pricier than public transportation.
-
Metro Ride
E£4.00
-
Taxi to Train Station
E£4.00
-
Taxi Ride
E£15
-
Taxi Ride
E£20
Food Budget in Egypt
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Egypt can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Egypt is $8.13 (E£401) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$8.13
E£401
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Egypt is about $8 (E£401) per person. Previous travelers have typically spent from $3 to $23 per day. Generally, breakfast and lunch will cost less than dinner, but that will vary based on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Egypt are as follows:
- Breakfast: $1 to $2
- Lunch: $1 to $4
- Dinner: $3 to $7
- Coffee: $1
- Fast Food or Street Food: $1
Egyptian food is a combination of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors. It often makes use of fresh ingredients and you can find a range of regional specialties throughout the country. There is plenty of seafood available on the coast, while lentil and vegetable dishes are popular as you move inland.
Aish Merahrah: This is a type of Egyptian flat bread that is made from maize and fenugreek seeds. Aish Merahrah is prepared in most village homes in Upper Egypt. It's a staple food that is similar to Lebanese flat bread and can make a nice supplement to any meal.
Kebabs: Kebabs are skewers of meat and vegetable grilled until they're crisp. They have gained popularity around the world, but remain a popular traditional dish in Egypt. They're often served with bread or another grain on the side and can make a delicious, and often times affordable, option for a meal.
Falafel: Falafel is made from fava beans or chickpeas which are finely ground and made into a ball. The balls are then deep fried, and often served on a sandwich. It's a popular, cheap street food, but can also be found in many restaurants at lunch time.
Traveling with kids? Check for restaurants that offer a childrens menu. It's a smart way to save money, as these meals are often more reasonably priced. And remember, some eateries don't advertise their kids' options, so asking the waiter is a good idea.
Many hotels offer complimentary breakfast, but some charge extra for this service. Prices and quality can vary based on the hotel. Being informed in advance can help you decide whether to indulge in a lavish hotel buffet or simply visit a nearby bakery or café that may offer cheaper options.
Choose to carry a water bottle instead of constantly purchasing drinks. It's a win for both your wallet and the environment.
When arranging for a tour, be sure to confirm which meals are included ahead of time. There may be some meals you'll need to pay for yourself, which could add to your overall costs.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Egypt, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- Yacht Cruise with Dinner & Oriental Show for $25 details
- Safari Quad Bike Adventure, Camel, Show, Dinner & Stargazing for $45 details
- Giza Pyramids, Camel Ride, ATV, shopping Tour and Dinner cruise for $13 details
- Private Nile River Dinner Cruise in Cairo for $20 details
Typical prices for food in Egypt are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the food prices in Egypt. However, your individual costs will vary based on your travel style, selected restaurants, and the items that you order.
-
Juice
E£2.00
-
Juice
E£5.00
-
Breakfast for Two
E£30
-
Seafood Dinner (for 2)
E£95
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Egypt
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Egypt typically cost an average of $5.38 (E£265) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$5.38
E£265
A nice way to explore destinations in Egypt is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Full Day Private Luxor East & West Bank Tour With Egyptian Lunch for $200 details
- Luxor Day Tour from Hurghada for $230 details
- Private Guided Tour to Giza pyramids, Great Sphinx and Camel Ride for $36 details
- Giza Day tour to Giza pyramids, sphinx, saqqara and Memphis for $120 details
Listed below are some typical prices for attractions, activities, and entry fees in Egypt, sourced from actual travelers. These costs give you an idea of how much you might spend. However, your personal expenses will depend on the activities you choose, the museums or landmarks you visit, and how frequently you opt for free or low-cost options.
Nightlife Budget in Egypt
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $1.46 (E£72) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Egypt per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$1.46
E£72
Hitting the town is a blast, but easing up on drinks can have a positive impact on your budget.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Egypt. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Cairo: Pub Crawl and Speakeasy Bar Tour with 2 Free Drinks for $54 details
Travel Costs Last Updated: Jun 15, 2023
Traveling in Egypt
Alexandria, Egypt
Egypt is a country filled with history. It has inspired legends, myths, and movies from around the world and its culture has influenced many aspects of life in the modern world. During a visit to Egypt, you are able to catch just a glimpse of the historic civilization that created the basis for modern society.
Many images spring to mind when one thinks of Egypt, but this country is so much more than just the pyramids. While the the pyramids alone are worth the trip, you must venture beyond the crowded sights and tourist buses so that you can see what lies beneath the surface. Most trips to this country begin in Cairo and then head south along the Nile River. Many people choose to experience the river at a leisurely pace, relaxing on a cruise that stops frequently to see ruins and temples that dot the banks of this great river. Allow yourself enough time to spend several days in Luxor where you can visit the tombs of great kings. Then, head to the Sinai Peninsula for a dip in the Red Sea and some of the best diving in the world. Climb Mount Sinai for sunrise and take a camel ride into the desert to experience the Bedouin culture. Egypt truly is as diverse as it is famous. You may go to see the pyramids, but you will find so much more.
Travel budgets in the area can vary dramatically. You will never encounter two tourists who have paid the same price for one purchase. Ultimately, your travel costs will depend on your bartering skills. Of all the countries you will ever visit, Egypt will test your skills to their fullest. Almost everything is negotiable in price. It can quickly become draining and dispiriting for some travelers but the trick is to negotiate with a smile. See it as a game and have fun with the vendors. You will pay to much, everybody does, but if you can do it with a smile then at least you had fun in the process.
At A Glance
- Touts are very aggressive in this country. Be prepared to negotiate hard. Vendors will have you constantly saying "no, thank you." In touristy areas you'll be asked for a tip for even the most simple tasks. Do not feel obligated to give money to everybody who asks. If you do, you will quickly be broke. Instead, simply acknowledge the request and move on. Most touts will not follow you.
- Head to the local markets to buy fruits and vegetables. If you're good at negotiating you'll get a decent deal on any number of food items. This is a great way to have a makeshift meal or snack that is fresh and delicious. Depending on the season you can get any number of fruits or vegetables. If you have access to a knife, you can peel it up and dig in on the spot.
- Egypt is a very touristy country. Make a point of getting off of the beaten path a little bit. Head to some towns or neighborhoods that are not frequented by tourists and you'll have a very unique experience that you might otherwise miss out on. Cairo in particular has some neighborhoods that are fun to explore, but may not be listed in a guide book. Make sure you have at least a day to just wander through the city.
- You can easily arrange your Nile Cruise after you arrive in the country. There are many travel agencies that will sell you a cruise. Negotiate hard on the price and if possible ask to see the ship in advance before booking.
- Tours are not necessary, but can be informative. Since history is a major draw in this country it helps to have a good guide who can offer you the information you need or might be interested in. Guides can also help you avoid some of the more aggressive touts that hang out at some of the major sights.
Related:
Looking for a hostel in Delhi or Goa? Heading to Kathmandu or want a party in Tel Aviv?
Top Tourist Attractions
The Pyramids: In the outskirts of Cairo, the great pyramids are what attract most people to Egypt. They are best visited during the morning hours before tour buses arrive. If you arrive early enough you'll enjoy a particularly breathtaking experience as the lighting will be dramatic and the crowds will be surprisingly scarce.
A Nile Cruise: Spend a few days drifting down the Nile, taking in historic sights and watching the banks pass by. Stop off at ruins along the river that you might otherwise miss, and enjoy a fine Egyptian buffet in the evening before relaxing by the side of your boat's pool.
Luxor:Filled with ruins, temples, and tombs, you can fill many days in the City of Luxor. It's, perhaps, the most historic and impressive city in Egypt, but unfortunately, many tourists pass through in only a day or two. Allow yourself more time to see the city in all its depth.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
We saved so much money in Egypt by arriving without reservations and negotiating the prices down. This really only works if you're planning to stay a local, budget hotels, but the prices can be crazy cheap.