wanderwayfarer.com

Egypt is a destination known for its ancient wonders, bustling markets, and scenic beauty, but it’s also one of the most affordable places to travel. Whether you’re exploring the Pyramids of Giza, cruising down the Nile, or diving in the Red Sea, Egypt offers incredible experiences at budget-friendly prices. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make the most of your trip without overspending.

1. Affordable Accommodation 

Egypt offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to boutique guesthouses. Major cities like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan have plenty of affordable places to stay, many of which are centrally located near key attractions.

• Hostels: If you’re a solo traveler or backpacker, hostels are the best option. Popular choices in Cairo like Dahab Hostel and Wake Up! Cairo Hostel offer rooms for as low as $10–15 per night. These often include free Wi-Fi and communal areas to meet fellow travelers.

• Budget Hotels: Egypt also has a great selection of budget hotels with rooms starting at $25–40 per night. In smaller towns like Aswan or Siwa Oasis, you can find cozy, locally-run guesthouses that offer comfort and authentic experiences at a fraction of the cost of luxury hotels.

• Airbnb: For those who prefer more privacy, Airbnb offers apartments or private rooms starting from $20–30 per night.

2. Eat Like a Local

One of the best ways to save money while traveling in Egypt is by eating local cuisine. Egyptian food is flavorful, filling, and incredibly affordable.

• Street Food: For budget travelers, Egypt’s street food is unbeatable. Popular dishes like koshari (a mix of rice, pasta, lentils, and fried onions), falafel (taameya in Egypt), and shawarma can be found for as little as $1–2 per meal.

• Local Restaurants: If you’re looking for a sit-down meal, head to local eateries where you can find dishes like grilled chicken, kofta, or molokhia for $3–5. Cafés often offer traditional Egyptian tea and coffee at affordable prices, perfect for taking a break after sightseeing.

• Budget Chains: Chains like Gad and Felfela serve a wide range of Egyptian dishes and are popular with both locals and travelers for their low prices and reliable quality.

3. Inexpensive Transportation

Getting around Egypt is quite affordable if you know how to navigate the transportation system.

• Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps: Taxis in Egypt are cheap, but it’s important to agree on the fare before your ride. Alternatively, use Uber or Careem for a more transparent pricing system. A typical ride within Cairo will cost you around $2–5.

• Public Buses and Microbuses: In larger cities, public buses and microbuses are the cheapest form of transport, with fares often under $1. While they can be crowded, they offer a truly local experience.

• Metro: Cairo’s metro system is clean, efficient, and incredibly affordable. Tickets cost around $0.20–0.30 per ride, making it a great option for budget travelers.

• Trains and Buses: Traveling between cities is also inexpensive. Sleeper trains between Cairo and Luxor or Aswan offer comfort at reasonable prices, and a basic train ticket can cost as low as $10. For shorter journeys, local buses or shared minibuses offer budget-friendly travel options.

• Domestic Flights: If you’re short on time but still want to travel far distances, Egypt’s low-cost airlines like Air Cairo or Nile Air offer domestic flights to popular destinations such as Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Luxor at very competitive prices.

4. Explore Egypt’s Historical Sites on a Budget

Most travelers come to Egypt to see its famous ancient landmarks, and with some smart planning, you can experience them without spending a fortune.

• Multi-Site Tickets: Egypt offers multi-site tickets for some of its major attractions. In Luxor, you can buy a combination ticket that gives access to several tombs in the Valley of the Kings and temples in the area. This can save you money compared to buying individual tickets for each site.

• Student Discounts: If you’re a student, bring your student ID or get an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) to receive up to 50% off entrance fees at many historical sites, museums, and attractions.

• Free Attractions: While most of Egypt’s famous sites require an entrance fee, there are many free experiences. Wander through the colorful bazaars of Cairo, explore the Islamic Cairo district, or stroll along the Corniche in Alexandria or Aswan.

5. Affordable Nile Cruises and Tours

A Nile cruise is often considered the highlight of a trip to Egypt, and you can enjoy this experience without splurging.

• Budget Nile Cruises: There are budget-friendly Nile cruises that offer 3-4 day trips from Luxor to Aswan for around $200–300, which includes accommodation, meals, and guided tours to key sites like Kom Ombo and Edfu temples.

• Felucca Rides: For a more affordable and authentic experience, consider taking a felucca (traditional sailboat) ride on the Nile. These shorter trips, ranging from a couple of hours to a full-day excursion, can cost as little as $10–30.

• Group Tours: Joining a group tour can also help cut costs, as you’ll be splitting expenses like transportation and guides. Many budget travel companies offer affordable group tours that cover all the major sites.

6. Bargain in the Markets

Shopping in Egypt can be very affordable if you know how to haggle. Whether you’re buying souvenirs, spices, or textiles, bargaining is a must.

• Khan El Khalili Bazaar: This famous market in Cairo is a great place to find handmade crafts, jewelry, and other goods. Start by offering half of the quoted price and negotiate from there.

• Local Markets: Visit local markets outside of the main tourist areas to find even better deals on everyday items like scarves, pottery, or spices.

7. Free and Cheap Activities

Aside from historical sites, Egypt offers many budget-friendly activities that can make your trip even more memorable.

• Walking Tours: Many cities offer free walking tours, especially in Cairo and Alexandria, where you can explore the rich history and architecture of the cities with knowledgeable guides.

• Desert Excursions: If you’re interested in exploring the Sahara Desert, budget-friendly tours are available for as low as $50 per person for a full day of adventure, including transportation, meals, and camel rides.

• Beaches and Snorkeling: Egypt’s Red Sea coast is famous for its stunning coral reefs. Many beaches in Hurghada and Dahab are free to access, and renting snorkeling gear will cost you only a few dollars for a day of underwater exploration.

8. Budget-Friendly Souvenirs

When shopping for souvenirs, Egypt offers a variety of affordable options. Look for small, lightweight items like papyrus scrolls, scarabs, or Egyptian cotton scarves, all of which can be found for under $10 if you haggle well.

Conclusion: Egypt on a Shoestring

Egypt is not only a treasure trove of historical and cultural wonders but also a destination that caters to budget-conscious travelers. From inexpensive accommodation and food to affordable transportation and entry to ancient sites, there are countless ways to experience the beauty and history of Egypt without breaking the bank.

At Wander Wayfarer, we believe that everyone should experience the magic of Egypt. Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable yet affordable adventure!