Cairo Day Trip from Hurghada: Pyramids, Sphinx & Nile Cruise

Summary

From Hurghada to Cairo’s ancient wonders, pyramids and Nile breeze

You’ll wake before dawn in Hurghada and find yourself face-to-face with Egypt’s ancient wonders by midday—museum treasures, Giza’s pyramids and Sphinx, plus a slow drift down the Nile if you want it. Local guides bring history alive with stories (and jokes), lunch is included, and there’s time to wander Cairo’s markets before heading back—honestly, it feels like two days packed into one.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I remember is the quiet shuffle of hotel slippers at 4am in Hurghada—everyone half-awake but buzzing. The air smelled faintly salty from the Red Sea even that early. We were picked up right on time (I double-checked my passport three times), bundled into an air-conditioned van, and suddenly the sun was rising as our flight touched down in Cairo. Our guide, Samir, greeted us with this easy smile like he’d known us for ages—he even remembered everyone’s names by the first stop.

The Egyptian Museum was cooler inside than I expected—both temperature and vibe. There’s this hush that falls over you when you see Tutankhamun’s mask up close (it’s smaller than I thought). Samir pointed out tiny details on the sarcophagi that I would’ve missed. Lunch after was loud and busy—plates of grilled chicken and rice, mint tea that steamed up my glasses. I tried to say thank you in Arabic; pretty sure I butchered it because our waiter just grinned wider.

Standing at the base of the Giza Pyramids is surreal—I mean, you know they’re big but your brain still can’t process it until you’re there. The Sphinx looks both fierce and kind somehow. There was a moment where everything went quiet except for a camel snorting behind me (I jumped). Later we drifted on a felucca along the Nile—the city noise faded out, just water slapping against wood and distant calls from riverbanks. If there’s time, they’ll take you through Khan el-Khalili market too; it’s all gold glinting under hanging lights, spices thick in the air. I bought some cardamom I still haven’t used.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Cairo sightseeing and return to hotel

• Pick up from hotel around 4am
• Meet guide upon arrival in Cairo
• Visit Egyptian Museum
• Enjoy lunch
• Visit Great Pyramids of Giza
• See the Sphinx and surrounding temple
• Optional visit to Papyrus Museum and Essential Oil Factory
• Relax with Nile boat trip
• Optional visit to Khan el-Khalili market or Cairo Festival City
• Transfer back to hotel by air-conditioned car

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Hurghada to Cairo?

The tour lasts a full day including early morning pickup from Hurghada and return late evening after your flight back.

Is lunch included on this Cairo day trip?

Yes, lunch is included during your tour in Cairo.

Are entrance fees to the Pyramids and Museum covered?

Entrance fees for the Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, and Egyptian Museum are included if you select that option when booking.

Is hotel pickup provided from Makadi Bay or El Gouna?

Yes, pickup is available from hotels in Hurghada, Makadi Bay, Soma Bay, and El Gouna.

Can I take a boat trip on the Nile during this tour?

A felucca cruise on the Nile is available for an extra fee if time allows during your visit.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible throughout the day trip.

Will we have free time for shopping or exploring Cairo?

If there is enough time before your return flight, you can visit Khan el-Khalili market or do some shopping in Cairo.

Are infants or small children allowed on this tour?

Infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are permitted and specialized infant seats are available.

What’s included

Your day includes early morning hotel pickup from Hurghada (or Makadi Bay/Soma Bay/El Gouna), roundtrip flights to Cairo with all transfers by air-conditioned vehicle. Entrance fees for the Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, and Egyptian Museum are covered if selected at booking. You’ll get three bottles of water per person during touring hours plus a hearty lunch before returning to your hotel late evening.