Cairo Tour from Eilat

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.