🏺 12 Days Egypt Budget Tour to Cairo, Alexandria & Siwa Oasis – Ancient Wonders & Desert Escape
English Speaking Guide
🌍 Discover Egypt Beyond the Ordinary
Step into a world of timeless wonders, rich history, and breathtaking desert beauty on this unforgettable 12 Days Egypt Budget Tour to Cairo, Alexandria, and Siwa Oasis. This journey blends iconic landmarks, cultural treasures, Mediterranean charm, and peaceful desert landscapes into one exceptional experience.
Not only will you explore Egypt’s famous ancient monuments, but you will also uncover hidden gems far from the usual tourist path. From legendary pyramids and lively bazaars to serene desert springs and salt lakes, this adventure offers the perfect balance of discovery and relaxation.
🏺 Explore the Timeless Wonders of Cairo
Begin your adventure in Cairo, Egypt’s vibrant capital and home to some of the world’s most remarkable historical treasures. Stand in awe before the mighty Giza Pyramids and the mysterious Great Sphinx, symbols of one of history’s greatest civilizations.
Furthermore, explore Saqqara, home to the Step Pyramid of King Djoser, the oldest large stone structure ever built. Continue your journey through history at the Grand Egyptian Museum, where priceless treasures and royal artifacts reveal the glory of ancient Egypt.
Meanwhile, immerse yourself in Cairo’s rich local culture as you stroll through bustling streets, colorful bazaars, and historic Islamic neighborhoods filled with centuries of fascinating stories.
🌊 Discover the Mediterranean Beauty of Alexandria
Next, travel to Alexandria, Egypt’s elegant Mediterranean jewel. This charming coastal city blends Greek, Roman, and Egyptian influences in a truly unique atmosphere.
Walk along the scenic Corniche, admire stunning sea views, and discover historical landmarks that tell stories of ancient civilizations. In addition, enjoy Alexandria’s relaxing coastal ambiance, delicious seafood, and cultural treasures that make the city unlike anywhere else in Egypt.
Because of its beautiful seaside charm and rich history, Alexandria offers a refreshing contrast to Cairo’s busy energy.
🏜️ Escape to the Magical Siwa Oasis
Far away from city life, Siwa Oasis welcomes you with peace, beauty, and unforgettable desert scenery. Hidden deep in Egypt’s Western Desert, Siwa is one of the country’s most magical destinations.
Here, discover breathtaking salt lakes, crystal-clear natural springs, palm groves, and dramatic desert landscapes. Moreover, experience Siwa’s unique culture, traditional mud-brick architecture, and relaxed atmosphere.
You can also enjoy unforgettable sunset views across the Great Sand Sea, relax in healing natural springs, and experience the true beauty of Egypt’s untouched desert paradise.
As a result, Siwa becomes one of the most memorable highlights of the entire journey.
🚙 A Perfect Blend of Adventure & Relaxation
This carefully designed budget tour combines history, culture, relaxation, and adventure into one seamless experience. While Cairo reveals the secrets of the Pharaohs, Alexandria introduces Mediterranean elegance, and Siwa offers peaceful desert serenity.
Additionally, comfortable accommodations, guided sightseeing, private transportation, and authentic local experiences ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip from beginning to end.
✨ Why Choose This Egypt Budget Tour?
This package is ideal for travelers seeking more than traditional sightseeing. Instead of visiting only famous monuments, you will also discover hidden treasures and authentic destinations few travelers experience.
Whether you are a history lover, culture seeker, photographer, or adventure enthusiast, this journey delivers unforgettable memories while remaining budget friendly.
⭐ Experience Highlights
🏺 Visit the legendary Giza Pyramids & Great Sphinx
👑 Explore Saqqara and ancient Egyptian treasures
🏛️ Discover priceless artifacts at the Grand Egyptian Museum
🌆 Experience Cairo’s vibrant local culture and bazaars
🌊 Explore the Mediterranean charm of Alexandria
🏰 Discover historical landmarks and seaside beauty
🏜️ Relax in the magical Siwa Oasis
💦 Float in stunning salt lakes and natural springs
🌅 Witness breathtaking desert sunsets
🚙 Enjoy unforgettable desert landscapes and adventures
🍽️ Taste authentic Egyptian and Siwan cuisine
🎓 Professional Egyptologist guide and comfortable transportation
💡 Travel Tips for Your Egypt Adventure
🎒 Pack light, breathable clothes for warm days and a jacket for cooler desert nights.
👟 Wear comfortable shoes for walking and desert exploration.
🧴 Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to stay protected.
💧 Stay hydrated, especially in desert areas like Siwa.
📸 Bring a camera—Siwa sunsets and desert views are unforgettable.
💵 Carry small cash for local markets and optional purchases.
📱 Consider buying a local SIM card for easier communication.
🙏 Respect local traditions, especially in remote communities.
✈️ Book Your Egypt Adventure Today
Get ready for an unforgettable journey through Egypt’s ancient wonders, Mediterranean beauty, and magical desert landscapes. From the timeless pyramids of Cairo to the peaceful charm of Siwa Oasis, this 12-day budget-friendly adventure promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Included
Excluded
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Egypt
Arrival to Egypt
Welcome to Cairo. Your tour begins when you are greeted by our representative who will assist you. After you have collected your luggage, he will then take you, in our deluxe vehicle, to your Cairo hotel.
Overnight in Cairo
Meals: Welcome drink
Day 2: 🏺✨ Ancient Pyramids & Modern Wonders 👑🌍
Included Activities: The Pyramid Complex – The Valley Temple – The Great Sphinx – The Grand Egyptian Museum
At 09 am you will meet your tour Guide and start your day to the great Pyramids area which includes:
Giza Pyramids Complex
The three main pyramids of Giza (Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure) are sufficient enough to build a 2-meter-long wall and span 100,000 square kilometers around the globe along with the equator.
The Great Pyramid (Extra Ticket to go inside)
The Great Pyramid of King Khufu is considered largely represents the spirit of ancient Egypt, King Khufu who built this Pyramid as a cemetery has left little information about his reign. Khufu ruled for about twenty-four years. Ironically, despite the enormity of his pyramid, the only statue of King Khufu himself is really small statue carved from ivory.
The Magical Sphinx
Who among us when mentioning the name of the Sphinx does not think about this stone sculpture that carved in the form of the human head and lion body, which is located in the Giza plateau in Egypt the Sphinx is one of the oldest and the largest sculptures in the world, it’s about 73.5 meters long and 6 meters wide.
The Valley Temple
It was used as a place for the embalming process. This temple constructed definitely for two functions: First, it was used for the purification of the mummy before its burial. Second, it was used for making the Mummification process of the king.
The Grand Egyptian Museum
The museum houses a collection of the most valuable Egyptian artifacts ever from various periods of the Egyptian civilization, from the Predynastic Period to Coptic Egypt, with an estimated total of over 100,000 artifacts, including at least 20,000 that will be displayed for the first time ever, including the complete King Tutankhamun collection comprising 5,398 pieces. The Tut collection is on display in a 7,500 m2 section of the museum. Rare pieces that have been restored will be displayed for the first time, such as the second solar ship of Khufu, the restoration of which cost $5 million, the collection of Queen Hetepheres (mother of King Khufu), and the collection of Yuya and Thuyu (parents of Queen Tiye).
Overnight in Cairo
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 3: 🌊✨ Alexandria Discovery Day Tour | Mediterranean History & Coastal Charm 🏛️📸
Included Activites: Qaitbay Citadel – Catacombs – Pompai Pillar
Your day starts with breakfast in your hotel followed by a 2.5-hour drive, in our air-conditioned vehicle, to Alexandria where you will check-in at your hotel upon arrival.
The Catacombs of Kom Alshaqafa
The Catacombs of Alexandria are the largest and most important burial site in Egypt that has a mixture of Roman, Hellenistic, and ancient Egyptian decorative art and elements that were all common during this period in Alexandria.
The Pompai`s Pillar
It’s a column that stands on a rocky hilltop in the middle of Alexandria. Pompey Pillar is a triumphal monument erected around 300 AD for the Roman Emperor Diocletian.
Qait Bay Citadel
Qaitbay Citadel has been built during the 14th century by (Sultan Qaitbay) to defend Alexandria from the attacks of The Ottoman Empire. You can enjoy the Sea views, wonderful restaurants, and unforgettable touristic items while visiting it.
Lunch will be served during the day tour in a sea view restaurant in Alexandria and then we will drive back to the hotel and overnight in Alexandria.
Overnight in Alexandria
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 4: 🌅 El Alamein & Siwa Oasis Escape | History &Desert Beauty Adventure ✨
El Alamein (El Alamein War Museum – Commonwealth War Cemetery - Siwa)
An early wake up and have breakfast followed by check out at 6 am you will be transported to Alamein on the North Coast of Egypt for approximately 3 hours of driving including coffee breaks to enjoy your informative El Alamein tour by visiting
El Alamein War Museum
This museum is an excellent introduction to the North African campaigns of WWII, including the Battle of El Alamein. The museum has separate halls dedicated to the four main countries involved in the war: Great Britain, Italy, Germany and Egypt. Another hall contains collections of memorabilia, uniforms, photos and maps. On display outside is a range of tanks and artillery from the battlefield.
Commonwealth War Cemetery
The Commonwealth War Cemetery is a haunting place where more than 7240 tombstones stand in regimented rows between beautifully tended desert plants. Most of the Commonwealth soldiers who lie here died in the Battle of El Alamein at the end of October 1942 and in the period immediately before that. As you enter, a separate memorial commemorating the Australian contingent is to your right. The cemetery is about 1km east of El Alamein's War Museum.
We will take our lunch at a unique restaurant before resuming our road trip to Siwa Oasis. Upon arrival, we will leave our baggage in the eco-lodge and transfer to one of the many natural hot water springs in Siwa Oasis to take a dip that will relax our muscles after a long day's drive. Back to the hotel and overnight.
Overnight in Siwa
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 5: 🚐 Scenic Drive to the Magical Siwa Oasis Adventure
Included Activities: The village of Shali in Siwa Oasis - Matrouh Governorate. , The Temple of Alexander the Great, Siwa House Museum, Mountain of the Dead in Siwa | Gebel al-Mawta, The Tomb of Si-Amun, Fatnas Island
Escape the busy city and discover the hidden beauty of Siwa Oasis on an unforgettable 2-day adventure from Cairo. Explore breathtaking desert landscapes, natural springs, ancient ruins, and the unique culture of one of Egypt’s most magical destinations. Enjoy relaxation, adventure, and stunning sunsets in the heart of the Western Desert.
The village of Shali in Siwa Oasis - Matrouh Governorate.
"Shali" is a Siwi word meaning city. The village of Shali was built from the material of the archive, which is clay saturated with salt. If it dries up, it becomes similar to cement in its hardness. It is a unique style of construction, and it dates back to the sixth century AH / twelfth century AD.
After that, you will be transferred to see the Temple of Alexander the Great ( the temple of The Oracle ) at the Aghurmi village dates back to the 26th dynasty, and visit the temple of Amun Ra known as the Temple of Um Ubeyda,
The Temple of Alexander the Great
The temple is built of sand stone and mud brick and it consists of forty-five rooms. The temple was discovered by Ahmed Fakhry, but unfortunately it was weathered by elements and most of the inscriptions and reliefs have vanished. An attempt has been made at restoration and the cracks between the stone blocks have been crudely filled with mortar. The temple was built to commemorate Alexander's passing on his way to Siwa . One of the temple's walls has a scene shows Alexander the great offering gifts to god Amon . Then experience the unique Siwan heritage through the Siwa House Museum
Siwa House Museum
The Museum at Siwa is an example of what the traditional house looks like in Siwa Oasis, Siwa House Museum also has a great collection of displays for daily-life tools and accessories used by Siwan people. The Siwan house ceilings and doors are made of palm wood, and mud and olive leaves help strengthen the roof against the rain. Most of the houses in Siwa as we can see them during Egypt Tours have two floors and a rooftop terrace, where they sleep in the summer or sit in the evening for dinners and chats in the open air.
Lunch will be served in the Oasis famous square overlooking Shali you will also visit the Mountain of the Dead ( Jabal el Mawta ) visit the interesting tombs of the rulers of Siwa Oasis during the 26th dynasty like the tombs of SI Amon, MSW Isis, crocodile tomb,
Mountain of the Dead in Siwa | Gebel al-Mawta
The mountain contains number of tombs. The tombs, which cover every inch of its base and are situated on its terraces and on all sides of the conical part, date from the 26th dynasty, the Greek and the Roman periods, though there appear to be no Christian burials.
The Tomb of Si-Amun
One of the most famous tombs is that of Si-Amun which is considered the most beautiful one in the oasis of the Western desert. The tomb dates to about the 3rd century BC. It was discovered in October,1940 and unfortunately, some of its decorations were badly damaged by soldiers in Siwa at that time, who cut away parts of the painted plaster. The tomb, as with others in the area, was robbed during the Roman period then you will enjoy relaxing afternoon at Cleopatra Spring (Ein Guba) swimming and dipping into the sparkling water after that you will be transferred Fitnas Island to enjoy once in the lifetime Sunset view.
Fatnas Island
Another favorite bathing spot for locals and tourists in Siwa is Fatnas Island. Also known as "Fantasy Island," the spot is located 6 km from Siwa Town on the salt lake of Birket Siwa in a beautiful surrounding of palm trees and beautiful scenery. There’s even a small café nearby from where you will be able to watch an amazing sunset while having tea or a cold drink.
Overnight in Siwa
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 6: Great Sand Sea - Bir Wahed
Great Sand Sea - Bir Wahed
You will have an organic breakfast in the hotel, then continue your Siwa Oasis Desert Safari, on the second day your guide will take you on a four-wheel drive to explore the Great Sand Sea.
We will start our Egypt Desert Safari adventure between the golden sand dunes till we arrive at the fossils area and see the rocky coral reefs which date back to the Cambrian era.
Great Sand Sea
The Great Sand Sea situated in Western Egypt the third largest sand-accumulation in the world. The Great Sand Sea of the eastern desert; an unbroken mass of dunes the size of New Mexico which smothers the barren frontiers of Libya and Egypt and is home to not one living soul. Parallel dune ridges run north-south for hundreds of miles, and anyone journeying here has to be exceptionally well prepared, as there's not a single well or water source in 150,000 square miles--extreme even by Saharan standards. Passing by the Dakrour Mountain, now we will enjoy the sandboarding experience, although not as fast as snowboarding but with the right amount of bee wax we can let you shoot down some of the massive sand dunes in the Great Sand Sea and have thrills to spare, after sandboarding it is time to wash up in the hot spring renowned as Bir Wahid for chilling and tranquilizing our muscles, enjoy another amazing Sunset at the Great Sand Sea in the middle of the dunes while having Bedouin tea.
Bir Wahid in Siwa Oasis
Bir Wahid is an area within the Great Sand Sea of Siwa Oasis, comprised of three natural water springs, although only two of them are the most visited. It is located in the desert known as the Great Sand Sea which is a naturally preserved area that stretches 800 km long, to the north of the Gilf Kebir plateau and east of Libya. Here, the water flows strongly at a maximum temperature of 37º, as if it is a sauna or thermal complex.
Overnight in Siwa
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 7: 🚗 Siwa Oasis to Cairo Journey | From Desert Serenity to Egypt’s Vibrant Capital✨
🚗 Siwa Oasis to Cairo Journey | From Desert Serenity to Egypt’s Vibrant Capital✨
Enjoy a scenic drive back from the peaceful oasis of Siwa to the bustling city of Cairo. Travel through Egypt’s stunning desert landscapes while reflecting on unforgettable memories of palm groves, salt lakes, ancient history, and magical oasis adventures before arriving in the heart of Egypt’s vibrant capital.
Overnight in Cairo
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 8: 🏛️✨ Discover Cairo’s Rich Heritage in One Day 👑🌍
Included Activities: The Egyptian Museum in Cairo – The Historical Churches
At 09 am you will meet your tour Guide and start your day to the down town area which includes:
The Egyptian Museum
Centrally located on the edge of Tahrir Square in Cairo, the Egyptian Museum is hard to miss on any tour of Cairo. Opening in 1902, it was purpose-built to house the antiquities of Ancient Egypt. The museum was founded in 1857 by French Egyptologist August Mariette.
Coptic Cairo Old Churches
Coptic Cairo is unique area with Old Cairo that has a concentration of Christian churches and other sites that date from the centuries between the decline of the pharaonic religion and the arrival of Islam when Egypt had a Christian majority. Coptic Cairo is largely built around the fort of Babylon on upon the remains of its walls.
Hanging Church
The Hanging Church is named for its location above a gatehouse of Babylon Fortress, the Roman fortress in Coptic Cairo (Old Cairo); its nave is suspended over a passage. The church is approached by twenty-nine steps; early travelers to Cairo dubbed it "the Staircase Church".The land surface has risen by some six meters since the Roman period, so the Roman tower is mostly buried below ground, reducing the visual impact of the church's elevated position.
Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church
Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church is traditionally believed to have been built on the spot where the Holy Family, Joseph, Mary and the infant Jesus Christ, rested at the end of their journey into Egypt. They may have lived here while Joseph worked at the fortress.
Church of St. George (Cairo)
The Church of St. George is a Greek Orthodox Church within the Babylon Fortress in Coptic Cairo. It is part of the Holy Patriarchal Monastery of St George under the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Alexandria and all Africa. The church dates back to the 10th century (or earlier). The current structure was rebuilt following a 1904 fire, construction was finished in 1909. Since 2009, the monastery's hegumen has had the rank of bishop with title Bishop Babylonos ("Bishop of Babylon").
Overnight in Cairo
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 9: 👑🌍Cairo Hidden Icons 🏛️✨
Included Activities: Manial Palace , Egypt Train Museum and Cairo Tower
Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel then we will meet around 9 am to start our unique day to explore more of Cairo.
Manial Palace Museum
The Museum of Prince Muhammad Ali’s Palace in Manial is one of the most beautiful and important historical museums in Egypt. The museum exhibits an important period in the history of modern Egypt and is characterized by its architectural design. Its modern Islamic style merges with Persian and Mamluk elements. It was also inspired by Syrian, Moroccan and Andalusian motifs, as well as Ottoman style. The building thus harmonizes between a number of Islamic architectural traditions.
Cairo Train Museum
The Egyptian Railway Museum, located in Cairo, is a historic museum that showcases the country's railway history. It was established in 1932 and features around 700 models and exhibits, along with documents, maps, and statistical data illustrating the evolution of transportation and railways in Egypt. The museum was built to commemorate the inauguration of Africa's first railway in 1856. Visitors can explore the collection of old decorated trains and learn about the significant role of railways in Egypt's development.
Cairo Tower
The Cairo Tower or El Gezira tower or (Borg El Qahira) in Arabic language is consider one of the most prominent features of the Egyptian capital. Its partially open lattice-work design is intended to evoke a lotus plant. Cairo tower was built from 1956 to 1961 during the presidency of Gamal Abdel Nasser with Soviet assistance.
Overnight in Cairo
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 10: 🕌✨ Islamic Cairo Heritage Tour Experience 🌟
Included Activities: Citadel, Sultan Hassan & Al-Refai Mosques
After breakfast at your hotel we will meet in the lobby and start our unique day tour to
The Citadel of Cairo
Salah Al-Deen (known as Saladin to European historians) overthrew the Fatimid dynasty in 1171 AD, establishing the new Sunni Ayyubid Caliphate. Given the threat of invasion by European crusader armies, Saladin decided to improve the fortifications of the city and in 1176 AD he began construction of a wall that would encircle both Al-Qahira (today Islamic) and Fustat (Old Cairo). Saladin’s Citadel served as the seat of government in Egypt for 700 years until Khedive Ismail moved into Abdin Palace in newly constructed Downtown Cairo in the 1870’s.
Mohamed Ali Mosque
The Mosque of Muhammad Ali is located inside the Citadel of Salah al‑Din al‑Ayyubi (Saladin) in Cairo. It was built by Muhammad Ali Pasha (1220–1264 AH/1805–1848 AD), the founder of the Muhammad Ali Dynasty (1220–1372 AH/1805–1953 AD), on the site of Mamluk palaces. He had these demolished to make room for his new building, which is also known as the "Alabaster Mosque", in reference to its marble paneling on its interior and exterior walls. The mosque’s twin minarets are the highest in all of Egypt, each reaching a height of 84 meters.
Sultan Hassan & Elrefai Mosques
It is one of the largest and architecturally exquisite mosques in all of Egypt. It was commissioned by the Mamluk sultan Hasan ibn al-Nasir Muhammad ibn Qalawun sometime between 757 AH/1356 AD and 764 AH/1362 AD, and is located at the end of Muhammad Ali Street, opposite its nineteenth century neighbor al-Rifa’i mosque in Salah al-Din Square. Enjoy your lunch and it will be served at a local restaurant after the day tour. Then return to your hotel and overnight in Cairo.
Overnight in Cairo Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 11: 🌍 Step into the Living History of Old Cairo 🌍
Included Activities: Al Muizz st & Khan ELkhalili Market
Around 10 am our guide will pick you up from your hotel to start your Cairo streets tour Visit Bab Zuwayla which is an ancient gate of Cairo. Outside the gate, you can see the mosque of Al-Saleh Talai’e. You will get the chance to climb up the stairs and reach it’s top to see a fascinating view of the minarets of a wide range of Cairo.
Al Muizz ST & Khan Khalili
Immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of Old Cairo on this unforgettable street tour. From ancient city gates to lively bazaars, this experience brings Egypt’s Islamic heritage to life. As you walk through historic streets, you will discover centuries of architecture, culture, and daily life—still thriving today.
Bab Zuwayla & Panoramic Minaret Views
Your Cairo city tour begins with a convenient hotel pickup. First, you arrive at Bab Zuwayla, one of Cairo’s last remaining medieval gates. From here, you can climb to the top and enjoy breathtaking views of countless minarets stretching across the city skyline. Just outside the gate, admire the elegant Mosque of Al-Saleh Tala’i, one of Cairo’s earliest suspended mosques.
Sultan Al-Mo’ayyad Mosque & Ghouri Street
Next, step inside the impressive Sultan Al-Mo’ayyad Mosque, uniquely built beside the ancient gate. Afterward, stroll through the lively cloth market near Ghouri Street, where colorful textiles, pure cotton garments, and local fruits fill the air with energy. Soon after, visit the remarkable Sultan Al Ghouri Complex, located near Al-Azhar Mosque and rich with Mamluk architectural beauty.
Al Muizz Street & Qalawun Complex
As you continue, walk along Al Muizz Street, one of the oldest streets in Cairo. Here, you’ll admire extraordinary Islamic architecture dating from the 13th to 15th centuries. Additionally, explore the magnificent Qalawun Complex, a masterpiece from the Mamluk era. Along the way, pass traditional copper, silver, and gold workshops, where artisans still practice centuries-old crafts.
Souhaimy House & Khan El Khalili Bazaar
Later, visit the historic Souhaimy House, once home to hundreds of Al-Azhar students. This beautifully preserved residence offers a glimpse into daily life in old Islamic Cairo.
Finally, arrive at the legendary Khan El Khalili Bazaar. Relax at a traditional café, sip tea or coffee, and soak in the atmosphere before returning comfortably to your hotel. Enjoy your lunch and it will be served at a local restaurant after the day tour. Then return to your hotel and overnight in Cairo.
Overnight in Cairo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 12: We will miss you
Cairo (Final Departure)
Your final day starts with breakfast at the hotel followed by check-out. You will then be transferred to the airport for your final departure.