Travelling to Egypt: A Tourist's Odyssey from Australia to the Land of Pharaohs

Australia to Egypt is a real adventure in linking the beautiful beaches of the Southern Hemisphere with the historical and cultural heritage of the Middle East and North Africa. Offering Aussies looking for an exotic mix of ancient wonders, pulsating cities, and the romance of the desert, Egypt provides a travel experience like no other. Here's all you need to know about getting there, planning, and highlights you won't want to miss.

1. A. Planning the Trip
Most often, travel between Australia and Egypt requires a stop in a Middle Eastern city. Major airlines offer services through Emirates via Dubai, Qatar Airways via Doha, and Etihad Airways via Abu Dhabi. Total travel times are dependent upon the length of the stopover but start from approximately 17 up to 23 hours.

Going to Egypt, check the visa requirements, depending probably on the length of your stay.

Complete Egypt Itinerary: 

Must-see Attractions and Less Familiar Treasures

From well-known monuments to the most inconspicuous ones, Egypt overflows with valuable artifacts. The following is an in-depth program that allows you to conveniently explore all of Egypt's main places, from well-known attractions to unique, off-the-beaten-track experiences.

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Cairo and Giza: Day 1-3

Your odyssey starts off in Egypt's pulsating capital of Cairo-a city teeming with world-famous landmarks, teeming bazaars, and of course, the Nile.

-Day 1: The Pyramids of Giza

Begin with trips to Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx-two monumental pieces that will be an interesting prefatory chapter to the history of Egypt.

- For an unforgettable view, consider a sunset camel or horse ride around the pyramids.

Head to the neighboring Solar Boat Museum to see the impressively reconstructed Khufu ship, an incredible achievement of engineering by the ancients.

Day 2: Egyptian Museum and Historic Cairo

Day of exploration to the Egyptian Museum, with one of the largest collections in the world, housing treasures of Tutankhamun's tomb.

After the museum, head onto Old Cairo. Make visits to the Hanging Church, Ben Ezra Synagogue, and Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque for a sample of the religious diversity of Egypt.

In the evening, make a cross over to the ancient Khan El Khalili Bazaar. This bustling marketplace is a great place to get souvenirs, jewelry, and local handicrafts.

-Day 3: Cairo in modern times

Feel the pulse of modern Cairo on a tour to Al Azhar Park, an area that commands great city views and some landscaped gardens.

Enjoy a typical Egyptian meal at a local restaurant, such as Felfela or Abou El Sid.

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Days 4-6: Luxor – The Ancient Capital

Fly to or overnight sleeper train to Luxor, known for being the "world's largest open-air museum - the ancient city.

Day 4: Eastern Bank (Temple of karnak and luxor)

Explore the vast Karnak Temple Complex, dedicated to the god Amun-Ra, with its famous Hypostyle Hall and its stunning statues.

Evening: Visit Luxor Temple, even more beautiful at night, with its beautiful lights against the night sky.

- **Day 5: West Bank: Valley of the Kings and Queens

Start visiting the Valley of the Kings, where the entrance to several of the pharaonic tombs is allowed, such as those of Tutankhamun and Ramses II.

Then, proceed to the Valley of the Queens, where the magnificently well-preserved tomb of Nefertari is one of the highlights and requires a special ticket.

- Finish the day with a visit to Hatshepsut's Temple and the Colossi of Memnon.

Day 6 - Hot Air Balloon Ride and Nile Cruise

This typically includes an early morning hot air balloon ride over the temples and monuments of Luxor, which is a very magical experience to most tourists.

Afternoon: In the afternoon, get aboard a Nile cruise boat to start your sailing northbound to Aswan, stopping on the way to visit a number of attractions.

***Day 7-9: Aswan – Egypt's Southern Gem***

Aswan is a city noted for its scenic beauty along rivers, easy-going life, and the rich Nubian culture.

Day 7: Philae Temple and the Nubian Villages

Visit the Philae Temple dedicated to the goddess Isis, set on an island in the Nile.

Afternoon: Explore the Nubian village for its colorful homes, warm locals, and a unique insight into cultural aspects that make this one stop worth going.

- **Day 8: Abu Simbel

A day tour to Abu Simbel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with colossal statues of Ramses II, which have been relocated to save it from the flooding of the Nile River and are considered "a must-see" in the field of ancient Egyptian engineering. Day 9: Take It Easy

- Stroll along Aswan’s Corniche, relax with a felucca boat ride, or visit the Aswan Botanical Garden for a peaceful afternoon.

Optional Extension: Days 10-11: Alexandria or the Red Sea

Add a few days in Alexandria or on the Red Sea, if time allows.

- Alexandria

Go to the Mediterranean coast of Egypt to visit the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, and the Qaitbay Citadel. The sea-side ambiance here is highly contrasting with the deserts of Upper Egypt.

- **Red Sea - Hurghada/Sharm El Sheikh**

One can relax around the blue waters of the Red Sea. Both Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh offer snorkeling, diving, and luxurious stays for an ideal coastal retreat after a tired tour of sightseeing. -- **Directions for traveling in Egypt - **Pack Essentials:** Sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a hat are great for sun protection. - **Keep Hydrated:** The hot climate of Egypt is very tiring; therefore, drink much water throughout the day. - **Dress Appropriately:** Above all, dress appropriately at the religious sites and in the local areas. - **Travel Insurance:** Travel insurance, covering one against health and travels disruptions, is highly recommended. - **Language and Currency:** The official language is Arabic, and the currency is Egyptian Pound (EGP). Although most people understand English, knowing a few words in Arabic will help a lot. Ideally: Egypt fascinates her guests with her ever-young charms, her history, and a warm greeting. Every part of Egypt differs in its kind of wonder that it offers its guests, from the dazzling Pyramids of Giza to the tranquil beaches along the Red Sea.