If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing the pyramids, sailing down the Nile, and immersing yourself in ancient history, then this G Adventures Egypt: Boats & Bazaars tour is for you.
The tour is an 18-30 something’s trip (18-39 only), 8 days, Cairo to Cairo.
I recently had the chance to experience this tour, and it’s an adventure I won’t forget anytime soon. Here’s my honest review, along with some personal tips to help you make the most of your trip.
Arriving Early in Cairo
I arrived in Cairo a week before the tour started, and honestly, it was a blast. I stayed at Holy Sheet Hostel in Downtown Cairo, which I highly recommend. It’s clean, safe, includes breakfast, and even offers airport transfers at an extra small cost. During that time, I met some awesome people at the hostel, went out for a fun party night, and visited some pyramids outside Cairo.
Now, Cairo can feel a bit intense, especially for women traveling alone. The streets are chaotic, the markets are bustling, and the attention can be overwhelming. That said, I had a great time. If you’re someone who prefers to ease into things, you could join the tour from the start without missing anything. However, if you’re up for some adventure, arriving early gives you a chance to explore Cairo more deeply.
Tip! – Check out Karam El Sham for their Shawarma Plate. Sit upstairs to soak in the vibe. Also, grab a drink at the Carlton Ritz on the Nile—a glass of wine is about $15 AUD, and you get a free show with dancers and singers. Such a hack!
Tour Highlights
The Great Pyramids of Giza
Visiting the pyramids is, of course, a must. The pyramids themselves are incredible, but surprisingly, not my favourite ancient site from the trip. I did pay extra to go inside one of them, there is nothing inside and you don’t miss much if you don’t go inside. But it is cool to say you have been inside a great pyramid.
Aswan and Abu Simbel
Aswan was a standout for me. The Philae Temple was breathtaking—the sheer size and detail blew my mind. You can skip the sound and light show here, it’s pricey and not worth it, according to my tour leader and reviews online.
Abu Simbel, hands down, was my favourite temple. It’s massive, awe-inspiring, and truly unforgettable. It’s a bit of a trek to get there, but absolutely worth it.
The Nubian family dinner was another highlight. Sharing a meal in a local home is an experience you simply wouldn’t get traveling alone. It’s these kinds of moments that make group tours so special.
Felucca Ride
The felucca ride down the Nile was pure magic. Picture this: cozy mattresses, wine, great conversations, and the gentle sound of water as you sail. It’s one of those moments that’ll make you fall in love with travel all over again.
Luxor and Valley of the Kings
Luxor is a fantastic place to explore. The Valley of the Kings is a must-see, and I highly recommend paying extra to visit Tutankhamun’s tomb. Seeing his actual mummy is surreal.
For street food, try Flafel Luxor Res. It’s a tiny spot with delicious falafel that’s cheap and cheerful.
Another unique experience was visiting the Planeterra Project, Funttasia. Here we biked through quiet villages and desert sand, learning about the amazing work they’re doing.
The Overnight Train
The overnight trains were surprisingly enjoyable. The cabins were small, but beds were comfy enough. It felt like a local experience.
Tip! – bring a bottle of wine to share with new friends in the train’s “social cabin.” It’s a fun way to pass the time and bond with your group.
General Tips for Egypt
- Markets: The markets in Cairo and elsewhere can be overwhelming. My advice? Smile, be polite, but don’t engage if you’re not interested in buying. And whatever you do, don’t say, “Maybe later”—they will remember and follow up!
- Weather: I traveled in mid-December, and the weather was perfect. Summers can get unbearably hot, so plan accordingly.
- Safety for Women: While Egypt is generally safe, it’s important to stay alert, especially in crowded areas. I felt comfortable overall, but having a group to travel with and a local guide definitely helped.
- Budgeting: Egypt is super affordable, especially if you’re mindful of where you spend. From street food to budget-friendly guides, it’s easy to stick to a budget without missing out.
Special mention goes to Saad, our amazing CEO (Tour Leader). He is so knowledgeable and passionate about his job. We wouldn’t have had the amazing experience we did without him.
It is a game changer to have a local guide when travelling, have can help put your mind at ease if you are a little nervous travelling. They know the best places, and also know the places you should avoid.
Is This Tour for You?
If you love a mix of history, culture, and unique experiences, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s well-paced, with a good balance of guided activities and free time. G Adventures also does a great job of supporting local communities, which I really appreciated.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, this tour offers something for everyone. And if you’re nervous about traveling alone, group tours like this one are a perfect way to dip your toes into solo travel while still having a built-in support system.
So, what do you think? Ready to pack your bags and explore Egypt? Trust me, you won’t regret it.
View tour here: Egypt: Boats & Bazaars
Planning a trip to Egypt? If you would like to read more about my trip for more tips, you can see all my North Africa & Middle East blogs here.
