WINTER TRAVEL DESTINATIONS IN EGYPT- In part two of our guide on winter destinations, we focus on domestic travel spots.With winter weather finally making its presence known — and travel abroad becoming cost-restrictive for many — we can pack our bags and take some time off by traveling around Om El Donia without breaking the bank.

GO LOCAL- These destinations might not be new, but getting there and saving when you arrive is the focus here.

GET ORGANIZED- Make your experience seamless, even if you are going to a destination inside Egypt by recruiting a travel agency to sort out the details of your trip. As we recommended last week, the following companies and agencies are good options:

QUICK REMINDER- Prices are listed in an approximate range due to unpredictable fluctuations as well as seasonal pricing. Here is a full list of prices as of 1 June 2023, for visiting sites and museums in Egypt.

DESTINATION #1-

LUXOR + ASWAN- These two picturesque cities in Upper Egypt, offering a journey back in time with their awe-inspiring ancestors, ancient temples, vibrant local culture, and breathtaking views along the iconic Nile River.

Endless sunshine in this outdoor museum- The sun shines for eight hours, making the weather ideal to explore temples, museums, pharaonic mosques on the banks of the Nile and a lot of popular markets with famous bazaars.

TRAVEL- Traveling by train takes nine hours, while flights take one hour. There is internal transportation in the two cities such as felucca, horse-drawn carriages, tuk tuks, and taxis.

ACCOMMODATION COSTS- For hotels, prices range from EGP 1k-15k per day in Luxor and Aswan. As for cruises there are three, four, and seven-day trips, with prices varying from USD 150-300 per person per night, click here to see options. Cruise prices include itineraries for exploration, as well as accommodation and dining.

MUST DO/VISIT- Monuments are worth exploring include, Valley of the Kings, Temple of Deirel-Bahri/Queen Hatshepsut’s Temple, Karnak Temple and more.

SUGGESTION- You can start by staying a few nights at the Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa, enjoy sightseeing for two days then take one of Ashranda Boutiques dahabiyah to take you from Luxor to Aswan — and once you arrive there, we suggest staying at the BenBen by Dhare Hotel.

DON’T MISS OUT ON-

The hot air balloon experience of watching the sunrise over Luxor is an activity that even the night owls shouldn’t miss out on.

PRO TIP- Pack some comfortable sneakers, a backpack, and an instant-print camera for this memory-making trip.

DESTINATION #2-

SIWA- Our own national spa is located in the western desert. It is an underrated tourist attraction that invites relaxation.

The weather is very polarized: In Siwa it’s warm through the day and very cold at night with a rare possibility of rain. So maybe stock up on those multi-vitamins to avoid getting sick.

TRAVEL- It’s 10-12 hours by bus or car.

SUGGESTION-

#1- Not one to plan, book and schedule? Tassili Camp Siwa does that all for you where they create a set itinerary for a weekend, including accommodation and activities.

#2- If you like running on your own time, stay at Taziry eco-village where they allow you to self explore the city, providing obviously a brochure or guide to help you.

ACCOMMODATION COSTS- For hotels prices range from EGP 2k-10k per day.

MUST DO/VISIT-Even though Siwa is an oasis for tranquility, there are a few sites that you are must sees such as Amun’s Temple, where the phenomenon of spring equinox occurs twice a year, the Mountain of the Dead, where some say the sand has natural elements used for the purposes of alternative medicine, Cleopatra’s Bath, and much more.

NOTE- Since there are more conservative Egyptian locals who live in Siwa the dress code matters with women where they’re expected to cover up, legs, chest and shoulders, not entirely, but for example at Cleopatra’s Bath ditching the bikini to wear a shirt over a one-piece bathing suit will suffice.

DESTINATION #3-

FAYOUM- Just a 100 km away from Cairo, this city offers a distinct array of activities. Known for its abundant biodiversity and stunning natural scenery it is a popular destination.

The pleasant weather makes it a suitable place to visit at any time of the year. Whether you are interested in exploring ancient monuments or simply want to relax and enjoy traditional Egyptian cuisine, Fayoum has something to offer for everyone.

TRAVEL-Buses typically take two hours, while driving by car will take a little bit less (around an hour and a half).

SUGGESTION-

#1- Add a little luxury to camping at Remal Al Rayan, an all-facilitated tent that even has its own jacuzzi.

#2- A traditional hotel experience at Lazib Inn, where you can stay in a villa that feels like home (an insider tip: you can host a campfire there).

#3- To get the best of both camping and traditional hotel staying, Tzila Lodge is the place to be.

ACCOMMODATION COSTS- For hotels, prices range from EGP 1k to EGP 10k per day.

MUST DO/VISIT- You can go stargazing, spend a day in Tunis Village trying out your hand in pottery design, checking out desert camping, sandboarding on the desert dunes and more.

PRO TIP- In the winter there can be high levels of winds and with the city mainly covered in sand, storms are inevitable — so it's safe to say your allergies will be leaping for joy. Should you unfortunately be caught in a storm, opt for indoor activities instead.

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