- DurationFull day
- Starts09:00 PM, hotel pickup
- GuideEnglish
- Group sizeUp to 7 travelers
- CancellationFree cancellation up to 36 hours before the start time.
Overview
Cross the desert and stand at the feet of the last surviving wonder of the ancient world on this private Cairo tour from Eilat. In a single action-packed day you travel overnight across the Sinai, arrive fresh in Cairo at sunrise, and explore the Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx, and the treasures of the Egyptian Museum with your own qualified Egyptologist guide. This private Cairo tour from Eilat is the most efficient way to tick Egypt's bucket-list icons without giving up your Red Sea hotel base.
Unlike a crowded group coach, this is a fully private experience built around you. Your guide, vehicle, and pace are yours alone, so you linger longer at the UNESCO-listed Pyramids of Giza, skip the lines you can skip, and shape the day to your interests. The Cairo tour from Eilat covers the Giza plateau, the world-famous Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, a working Papyrus Institute, a buffet lunch of authentic Egyptian dishes, and the 14th-century Khan el-Khalili bazaar.
The day is long and rewarding. You depart Eilat in the evening, cross at the Taba border, and travel through the night so you reach the Giza plateau early, ahead of the midday heat and the largest crowds. After a full day of sightseeing you return overland to Taba, cross back into Israel, and take a short taxi ride to your Eilat hotel. It is a true one-day adventure into the heart of ancient Egypt, ideal for travelers based in Eilat who want maximum payoff from a single day.
This Cairo tour from Eilat operates Sunday to Thursday with an English-speaking Egyptologist guide; guides in other languages are available on request. A valid passport with at least six months validity is required, and the Egyptian visa is arranged for you at the border. Pair it with our Petra Day Tour from Eilat or a Petra and Wadi Rum tour for an unforgettable two-country adventure from your Red Sea base.
You may also like
Plan your visit: free travel guides
Highlights
- Private guided Cairo tour from Eilat with your own Egyptologist, vehicle, and flexible pace
- Marvel at the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx, the last surviving ancient wonder
- Explore the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square with over 120,000 artifacts
- See Tutankhamun's golden treasures and royal mummies with expert commentary
- Watch a live papyrus-making demonstration at a traditional Papyrus Institute
- Wander the legendary 14th-century Khan el-Khalili bazaar for spices, jewelry, and lanterns
- Enjoy an authentic Egyptian buffet lunch of koshari, grilled meats, and mezze
- Door-to-door hotel pickup in Eilat and air-conditioned transport across the Sinai
- English-speaking Egyptologist guide included, other languages on request
Itinerary
-
09:00 PMEvening Pickup from Eilat Hotels
Your private Cairo tour from Eilat begins with an evening pickup from your hotel in Eilat, Israel's Red Sea resort city, at around 9:00 PM. Your driver and guide meet you in the lobby, and you set off in an air-conditioned vehicle for the short drive to the Taba border crossing. Travelling overnight means you sleep through the long desert transfer and arrive in Cairo fresh and ready to explore at sunrise.
-
09:45 PMTaba Border Crossing into Egypt
At the Taba border crossing your guide assists with the formalities of leaving Israel and entering Egypt. Your Egyptian entry visa is arranged here for you. Once across, you continue west by air-conditioned coach across the Sinai Peninsula. The overnight route follows the coast and desert highway toward Cairo, a journey of roughly seven to eight hours, so settle in and rest.
-
08:00 AMPyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx
Arrive on the Giza plateau in the morning and come face to face with the Pyramids of Giza, the only surviving structure of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Your Egyptologist guide brings the 4,500-year-old story of the Great Pyramid of Khufu to life, then leads you to the enigmatic Great Sphinx, the colossal lion-bodied guardian carved from a single ridge of limestone. There is plenty of time for photographs with these timeless monuments rising from the desert.
-
11:00 AMThe Egyptian Museum, Tahrir Square
Continue to the world-famous Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, home to the largest collection of Pharaonic antiquities on earth with more than 120,000 objects. With your expert Egyptologist you explore the highlights, from the dazzling golden death mask and treasures of Tutankhamun to royal mummies, ancient jewelry, statues, and papyrus scrolls. The guide's commentary turns rows of glass cases into a vivid story of ancient Egyptian life and belief.
-
01:00 PMPapyrus Institute and Egyptian Buffet Lunch
Stop at a traditional Papyrus Institute for a live demonstration of how the ancient Egyptians turned the papyrus plant into the world's first paper. Hand-painted papyrus art is available to buy as a unique Egyptian souvenir. Then sit down to an included buffet lunch at a local restaurant, where you can sample authentic dishes such as koshari, grilled meats, mezze, fresh pita, salads, and Egyptian-style rice.
-
02:30 PMKhan el-Khalili Bazaar
Spend the afternoon exploring Khan el-Khalili, Cairo's legendary open-air bazaar dating back to the 14th century. Wander the maze of narrow alleys lined with stalls selling spices, handcrafted jewelry, leather goods, essential oils, and gleaming copper lanterns. Bargaining is expected and part of the fun, and your guide can help you navigate the souk and find trusted vendors. It is the perfect place to pick up authentic Egyptian souvenirs.
-
06:00 PMReturn Drive to Taba Border
In the late afternoon you board your vehicle for the return drive across the Sinai to the Taba border, a journey of roughly seven hours. Relax and reflect on a day spent among pharaohs and pyramids. For more on travelling between Israel and Egypt, see the Israel Ministry of Tourism. Travelers looking to add a second country often combine this trip with our Petra Day Tour from Eilat.
-
11:00 PMCross Back to Israel and Return to Eilat
Arrive at the Taba border late in the evening and cross back into Israel, where your guide assists on the Egyptian side. From the crossing it is a short taxi ride back to your hotel in Eilat. You return having seen the very best of ancient Egypt in a single, unforgettable private day. For ideas on extending your Red Sea stay, browse our full range of Eilat day tours and excursions.
What's included
Included
- Hotel pickup in Eilat and return to the Taba border
- Air-conditioned coach or minivan transport (Eilat to Cairo and back)
- Professional English-speaking Egyptologist guide
- Entrance fees to the Pyramids of Giza and Sphinx complex
- Entrance fees to the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square
- Visit to the Papyrus Institute and Khan el-Khalili bazaar
- Buffet lunch at a local Egyptian restaurant
Not included
- Egyptian entry visa (arranged for you at the border, payable locally)
- Departure tax, payable locally at tour check-in
- Drinks and any food not specified in the itinerary
- Gratuities for guide and driver (recommended)
- Medical and personal travel insurance
- Guide in languages other than English (available on request)
Pickup & meeting point
- Eilat hotelNo pickup fee
You choose your pickup city when you book. We confirm the exact pickup time and place by email or WhatsApp the day before the tour.
Tour ends with: Cross Back to Israel and Return to Eilat
Know before you go
Minimum Participants
This private Cairo tour from Eilat operates with a minimum of 2 passengers. As a private tour, your guide and vehicle are reserved exclusively for your party.
Pickup Times
- Eilat hotels: approximately 9:00 PM (evening before the tour day)
Exact pickup time is confirmed 24 hours before departure. Please be ready in your hotel lobby 15 minutes before the scheduled time. The tour returns to Eilat late at night the following day, so we recommend booking a hotel night for after the tour.
Border Crossing and Documents
This tour crosses the Taba border between Israel and Egypt. A valid passport with at least six months validity from the date of entry is mandatory for every traveler. The Egyptian entry visa is arranged for you at the border. The visa fee and local departure tax are not included in the tour price and are paid locally in US dollars cash. Border crossing assistance is provided by your guide.
What to Bring
- Valid passport (mandatory, 6+ months validity)
- US dollars in cash for visa, departure tax, drinks, souvenirs, and gratuities
- Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes
- Sun hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen
- Bottled water and any personal medication
- Camera or smartphone
Dress Code
Light, breathable clothing is recommended for the desert climate. Modest dress that covers shoulders and knees is respectful when visiting markets and religious areas. Closed-toe shoes are essential for the Giza plateau and the bazaar.
Physical Requirements
This is an intensive tour with long overnight drives in each direction and a full day of walking on uneven desert ground at Giza and through the alleys of Khan el-Khalili. A reasonable level of fitness and stamina is required. The tour is not recommended for travelers with severe mobility limitations. Please contact us in advance to discuss any accessibility needs.
Age Restrictions
Suitable for older children, teenagers, and adults. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times. Because of the demanding overnight schedule, this tour is not recommended for very young children.
Health and Safety
The tour follows the safety guidance of the Israel Ministry of Tourism. Drivers are licensed and vehicles are regularly inspected. Carry any personal medication in your hand luggage. For any urgent matter during the tour, contact us at +972-86338361.
Language
The tour is conducted in English by a qualified Egyptologist guide. Guides in other languages may be available on request for an additional charge. Please confirm your language preference at the time of booking.
Cancellation policy
| When you cancel | Cancellation fee |
|---|---|
| 36+ hours before the start time | Free cancellation |
| The day before the tour | 25% fee |
| On the day of the tour, or no-show | 100% fee (no refund) |
Need to change your date instead? Message us before the tour and we will do our best to move your booking. If we cancel or materially change a tour, you can choose an alternative date, a credit or a refund. Read the booking terms.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a passport and visa for the Cairo tour from Eilat?
Yes. Every traveler on the Cairo tour from Eilat must carry a valid passport with at least six months validity from the date of entry. The Egyptian entry visa is arranged for you at the Taba border crossing. Please note the visa fee and the local departure tax are not included in the tour price and are paid locally. For current entry requirements between Israel and Egypt, consult the Israel Ministry of Tourism before you travel. Egypt runs its official e-visa service at visa2egypt.gov.eg, so check your nationality there before you travel.
How long is the Cairo tour from Eilat and what are the timings?
The Cairo tour from Eilat is an intensive one-day tour with overnight travel in each direction. Pickup from your Eilat hotel is around 9:00 PM, you cross the Sinai overnight, and you reach the Giza pyramids by about 8:00 AM. After a full day of sightseeing you begin the return drive around 6:00 PM and arrive back in Eilat late that night. Because the desert crossing is long, many guests plan a restful night in Eilat afterward. If you prefer a slower pace across two countries, see our Petra Day Tour from Eilat.
What is included in the Cairo tour from Eilat?
The Cairo tour from Eilat includes hotel pickup in Eilat, air-conditioned coach or minivan transport to Cairo and back, a professional English-speaking Egyptologist guide, entrance fees to the Pyramids of Giza and Sphinx complex and to the Egyptian Museum, a visit to the Papyrus Institute, a visit to Khan el-Khalili bazaar, and a buffet lunch at a local Egyptian restaurant. The Egyptian visa, departure tax, drinks, gratuities, and personal insurance are not included.
Is the Cairo tour from Eilat suitable for children?
The Cairo tour from Eilat is best suited to older children, teenagers, and adults because of the long overnight drives and full day of walking. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times. The Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum are wonderful for curious young historians, but families with very young children may prefer a shorter local excursion. Contact us to discuss whether this tour fits your family, or consider our gentler Petra Day Tour from Eilat.
What should I bring and wear on the Cairo tour from Eilat?
Bring your passport, comfortable closed-toe walking shoes, a sun hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, and a bottle of water. The Giza plateau is open desert with little shade, so sun protection is essential. Light, breathable clothing is ideal, and modest dress that covers shoulders and knees is respectful when visiting markets and religious areas. Bring US dollars in cash for the visa, departure tax, drinks, souvenirs at Khan el-Khalili, and gratuities. See the Giza pyramid complex guide for context on the site. Our Israel, Jordan and Egypt travel guide has more planning tips.
What is the cancellation policy for the Cairo tour from Eilat?
Free cancellation if you let us know at least 36 hours before the tour start time. If you cancel the day before the tour, a 25% cancellation fee applies. Cancellations on the day of the tour, and no-shows, are charged 100%.
To cancel or change your date, message us on WhatsApp at +972 8-633-8361 or email [email protected]. If we cancel or materially change the tour, you can choose another date, a credit or a full refund. Full details are in our booking terms.
Is the Cairo tour from Eilat private, and which languages are available?
Yes, this is a fully private Cairo tour from Eilat. Your guide, vehicle, and itinerary are reserved for your party alone, so you enjoy a flexible pace and personal attention from your Egyptologist guide. The tour is conducted in English as standard. Guides in other languages can be arranged on request for an additional charge, so please let us know your preference when booking. For other private options from the Red Sea, see our Petra Day Tour from Eilat.
What are the best tours to the Pyramids from Eilat?
Booking-Tours runs two Cairo tours from Eilat. The Cairo day tour is priced by group size: $440 per person for 2 to 3 travelers, $330 for 4 to 5, $290 for 6 to 7, or $650 for a solo traveler, and covers the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum and Khan el-Khalili with an Egyptologist guide and lunch. The 2 day Cairo tour adds a hotel night, Saqqara and Coptic Cairo for a slower pace. Both leave Eilat through the Taba border.
What should I plan for a Cairo day trip from Eilat?
Plan for a very long day: pickup at your Eilat hotel, the Taba border, a long drive across Sinai, the main sites in Cairo and the drive back. Bring a passport valid for at least 6 months, cash for the Egyptian visa and departure tax (paid locally), comfortable shoes, a hat and snacks for the road.
Which tours visit the Sphinx and the Pyramids of Giza from Israel?
Our Cairo tour from Eilat includes entrance to the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx complex, the Egyptian Museum and a visit to the Papyrus Institute and Khan el-Khalili bazaar. For more of Egypt, the 20 day Israel, Jordan and Egypt tour adds Cairo, Mount Sinai and a 3-night Nile cruise.
Is there a Cairo tour with an Egyptologist guide?
Yes. The Cairo tour from Eilat includes a professional English-speaking Egyptologist guide for the whole day in Cairo. Guides in other languages are available on request. Groups are small, up to 7 travelers.
Is one day enough to see Cairo?
One day is enough for the highlights: the Pyramids, the Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum and the bazaar. It is not enough for Saqqara, Coptic Cairo or a relaxed museum visit. If you want those, choose the 2 day Cairo tour from Eilat, which includes a hotel night and dinner.
Why book with Booking-Tours
- Local operator in Eilat since 2008Our own office and team on the ground, not a call center abroad.
- Licensed local guidesSmall details, good pacing and real stories at every stop.
- Real people on WhatsAppHelp in English, Russian and Hebrew before and during your trip.
- Secure online paymentPay by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay through Stripe.
“We had a great experience during our tour in Petra. Our tour guide, Ahmed, was very friendly and kind…”
N. M., Mexico · Trustpilot
You might also like
See all tours
Cairo and Luxor 4 Day Tour from Eilat by Sleeper Train
Next departure: Tue, 10 Nov
From$749per adult
View tour
Mount Sinai Sunrise and St. Catherine Tour from Eilat
Next departure: Tue, 10 Nov
From$240per adult
View tour