Luxor and Giza

[GoingToEgypt]

Hi

We are going to Egypt in July (yes it will be boiling, not my choice, but DH and adult DCs are desperate to see the pyramids, which I did as a child, and this was the only time our diaries match.)

We have 3.5 full days in Luxor, then 2.5 full days in Giza. The plan is to sightsee at the crack of dawn and then to return to the hotel by lunchtime and spend the rest of the day largely by the pool or relaxing in the AC.

My plan is as folllows - grateful if you could indicate whether it makes sense.

Luxor

	◦	Day 1 Luxor temple and Karnak temple. Colossi of Memnom
◦	Day 2 Valley of Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut. 
◦	Day 3 Temple of Dendera

Cairo*

◦	Day 1 Pyramids and sphinx, Egyptian Museum 
◦	Day 2 Saqqarah step pyramids

We are not wedded to any of the above, can add or drop if necessary.

Also, is it better to book a taxi type tour, or a proper taxi/tourist guide? My DH hates being rushed around by a guide but I quite like the idea of someone who knows the area and can show us the key places without us having to stand around in the sun for hours. We normally don’t book tours and instead do it ourselves, but I think it’s sensible in Egypt?

Also, are the evening light shows worth it, or unbelievably naff?

Is Cairo itself worth exploring? Our hotel is nearer Giza.

Do we need to book anything in advance?

Any recommendations welcome, thanks!

I've been twice, & would strongly recommend using a guide & driver in both places.
Tell them what you want, & they'll arrange it - including luch at an hygienic place if you want it.

No need to book or queue at sites, guides go straight to the front !
I can't remember the names of the companies we used, but your hotels will recommend one.
Is it the Mena House ?

I would also book a driver and a guide. Official tour guides will sort out tickets and get you to the front of any queues. In that kind of heat you don’t want to be waiting in line.

Thanks, really helpful!

Sounds like a proper guide is the way to go.

Not Mena, too pricey! The Hyatt Regency Cairo West.