Planning a trip to Egypt with children might sound like a bold move, but it’s one of the most thrilling and enriching adventures a family can take. From the towering pyramids of Giza to the vividly colorful coral reefs of the Red Sea, Egypt offers a peculiar blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that captivates kids and adults alike. Whether your little ones dream of riding camels through the desert or exploring ancient tombs like real-life archaeologists, this journey promises unforgettable memories and plenty of wide-eyed wonder.
Keep on reading to find out how to make your Egyptian escape smooth, safe, and absolutely mind-boggling for every member of the family.
Get Your Paperwork In Order
To enter Egypt, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date and contain at least one blank page. These conditions are strictly enforced, and failure to comply may result in denied entry at the border. In addition to passport validity, most visitors will need a tourist visa. Egypt offers an e-Visa system that allows travelers to apply online before their trip; visas can also be obtained on arrival at select airports, though it’s generally recommended to secure one in advance to avoid delays.
Just like adults, children, irrespective of age, must have their own passports. A visa is a separate document that grants permission to enter or transit Egypt, so apply well in advance of the trip since processing times can vary. If you’re applying for an e-Visa or visa on arrival, make sure to include the kid’s details in the application. Some airlines or travel agencies may assist with this process. Always carry printed copies of all travel documents, including passports, visas, etc., even if you have digital backups, to have a reliable safety net against unforeseen circumstances.
Use An eSIM To Stay Connected
An eSIM Egypt lets you activate a mobile data plan without needing a physical SIM card, so it does basically anything a regular SIM card does, only easier. You unlock instant connectivity the moment you land, keeping essential apps like Google Maps, WhatsApp, and translation tools running smoothly. This is crucial when venturing across busy cities like Cairo or Luxor, booking tickets, or coordinating with guides. Plus, many eSIM-compatible phones support dual SIM functionality, so you can keep your home number active while using a local Egyptian data plan.
If you have a relatively modern phone, you’ve got everything you need to set up an eSIM plan. You can install the eSIM manually by copy-pasting the code sent to you by email or scanning the QR code. Activate only when you reach your destination to avoid wasting your data plan; if you activate the eSIM before you travel to Egypt, you’ll lose valuable days of your data plan. It goes without saying that you need an Internet connection to validate the data provided by third parties and view your mobile data plan consumption.
Discover The Absolute Must-Do Things
To fully experience Egypt, you need to take your time and travel on your own terms. This bucket list of things to do is a starting point from which you can begin building your unique collection of lifelong memories. Check out our suggestions, then discuss your ideas with experienced specialists.
- Visit the Pyramids of Giza: The most recognizable among the Seven Wonders of the World, the Pyramids of Giza are worth seeing up close. Your brave young explorers will want to experience history, admire the incredible engineering, and witness the monumental accomplishments of history. Be mindful of the narrow passageways inside the pyramid, such as the tunnel in the Bent Pyramid.
- Go snorkeling in the Red Sea: Enjoy endless sun and a diverse population of coral reefs. Sharm el-Sheikh and Al Quseir offer a mix of beach and cultural activities, such as snorkeling with turtles and dugongs close to the beach, and scuba diving with wonderfully calm and clear conditions.
- Embark on a rail adventure to Tanta: A train offers an authentic, scenic journey along the Nile. Tanta is home to Ahmad-al Badwi Mosque, renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere, which can be both enchanting and overwhelming. It’s also worth exploring the Tanta Museum, which showcases artifacts from Greek, Roman, and Pharaonic periods.
This list isn’t exhaustive by any means. You can ride camels throughout the Sinai Desert, take a hot air balloon flight at Luxor, or play all day long at the Soho Square.
Pay Attention To Safety And Comfort
Child seats aren’t common in taxis or private cars, so bring your own if possible. Traffic can be chaotic in Egypt, notably in major cities like Cairo and Alexandria, and lane discipline is loose, so a child seat provides much-needed protection in case of sudden stops or accidents, far beyond an adult seatbelt. The child seat gives your offspring a familiar, comfy place to nap, snack, or play. Egypt is sunny year-round, with UV levels reaching their peak in summer months, so you and your loved ones should wear sun protection to avoid burning to a crisp.
Egyptians are famously warm and welcoming to children, so you can expect smiles, sweets, and lots of attention from locals. Still, it’s important to understand that Egypt is a conservative country, like most of the Middle East, so dress modestly, loosely, and coolly. Children should have their knees and shoulders covered for religious sites or when exploring cities. Teach them basic Arab greetings like “Salam” (Hello) and “Shukran” (Thank You). Indeed, Egypt is a little rough around the edges, but the country is still developing.
Final Thoughts
Egypt is an excellent destination for families who want to enjoy history, culture, and nature. You can marvel at the ancient wonders of the pyramids, temples, and tombs, ride camels through the desert, or snorkel in the vibrant coral reefs of the Red Sea. Youngsters will be captivated by tales of pharaohs and mummies. You, as parents, will appreciate the slower pace of the awe-inspiring landscapes, from the verdant Nile River to the stark beauty of the Sinai Desert.