7 top tips for exploring Egypt on a budget

17.08.2023 - 15:15 / lonelyplanet.com

Budget travelers are often surprised at how much you can get for your money when exploring Egypt.

You don't need to break the bank to have a truly immersive experience here, and with a little research and planning, you’ll make the most out of your time and money.

If you opt for local food and embrace the hostel life, you can explore much of Egypt on a budget while still occasionally indulging in some luxurious yet affordable treats. These are our top tips for making your money go further.

Securing a cheap flight is the gateway to a budget-friendly trip, and if you have destinations on your Egypt itinerary beyond Cairo (and you should!), you can save hundreds by booking a flight to one of the country’s other international airports. 

Flying into Egypt through Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, Marsa Alam or Alexandria could cost you less than half the price of a flight into the capital.

To save on accommodations in Egypt, choose shared hostel dorms, camps and basic hotel rooms. You’ll find many options in every part of the country, with some beds going for less than US$20 per night. Sharing rooms with multiple single beds is a great way to save money if you’re traveling with friends.

For budget hotels, expect to pay between $25 to $50 per night for a double room depending on the city and season.

Cairo overwhelms the senses – there’s a lot to see, eat and experience. Avoid the capital's notorious traffic and make the most of your time by booking a room in the heart of the city; all the big sights will be on your doorstep.

Downtown Cairo offers a large selection of budget-friendly accommodations, including boutique hotels, hostels and Airbnbs that put the Egyptian Museum and the Nile within walking distance. Staying central also means easy access to public transportation and quick pickups from ride-hailing apps to get to spots like Khan Al Khalili, Islamic Cairo and the Giza Plateau.

Food plays an important role in Egyptian culture, and there's no better way to learn about local life than by eating your way through Egypt's hearty street food. 

Egyptian cuisine tends to be cheaper than international food, and you'll find an array of delicious, cheap and diverse options.

The plethora of street food vendors, especially in Cairo, offer many delicacies for you to choose from, including vegetarian and vegan options. You can get a complete meal on the go for just $2. Meals in local sit-down restaurants range from $5 to $12.

If you have a kitchen in your accommodations, pick up fresh fruits and vegetables from the many carts dotting every street to make a meal.

You spot a souvenir you’d love to take home with you, but the seller just hit you with an absurdly high number. Don’t give up: this is part of the process.