The mummy of Seqenenre Tao lies before me. The ancient king’s hands are clasped at his chest, his face pained. It’s not known exactly how he died, but the wounds on his head suggest it was during battle. A weird mix of sorrow and awe surges through me as I curiously sight the 20 kings and queens of ancient Egypt in thick silence in the dark Royal Mummies Hall at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization.

It’s one of many “wow” moments on my 11-day Wonders of Ancient Egypt tour with Australian-based operator Bench Africa, a once-in-a-lifetime trip that weaves together ancient and contemporary culture, cruising on the Nile and stays at the country’s landmark luxury hotels.

Forever etched in my memory are the ornate carvings of Edfu Temple, the outwardly unremarkable tomb of Tutankhamun in the Valley of the Kings and swimming on the top deck of our ship, Sanctuary Nile Adventurer, as it sailed gently down the Nile. Egypt leaves you utterly spellbound. Here, four experts share how to make the most of it.

1. Hack the pyramids

Exactly how the ancient Pyramids of Giza were constructed without modern machinery remains one of civilisation’s most mind-boggling mysteries. What’s certain is that being in the presence of these elaborate burial structures, built over more than 20 years some 4500 years ago, is a near-spiritual experience. “Arrive at Giza at around 8am to avoid the crowds and heat,” says Australian writer and expat Dawn Gibson-Fawcett, who has been based in Cairo for three years. “Book a local guide in advance – they’re affordable, knowledgeable and expert at keeping hagglers at bay,” she says, adding that if you visit in October or November, you can take in the unforgettable annual Forever Is Now exhibition, with contemporary artists from around the world creating large installations using the pyramids as a backdrop. This year’s exhibition is from October 23 to November 15.

You can enjoy these archaeological wonders – the tombs of Egypt’s Old Kingdom kings, Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure – in supreme comfort, too. Among manicured lawns and date palms, the Marriott Mena House offers sleepovers with pinch-me pyramid views and sun-drenched breakfasts on an outdoor patio with the Great Pyramid casually lingering in the distance. There are a couple of options nearby as well. “Book outdoor seating for breakfast or lunch at 9 Pyramids Lounge,” Gibson-Fawcett says. “It boasts the most incredible views. And the Great Pyramid Inn hotel has gorgeous rooftop terraces that are perfect for enjoying the evening light and sound show.”

2. Discover the ‘other’ pyramids

The Giza pyramids are Egypt’s most coveted tourist attraction, but the North African country boasts some 118 pyramids, most in less-crowded locations. “I personally love going to the pyramids at Dahshur,” says Simon Grove, a former Egypt tour guide and product director of travel agency Explore Worldwide in the UK. “Located a short drive from Giza, the Bent Pyramid (pictured) is older than those at Giza and shows how the construction developed over time. Add on a visit to the original pyramid, the more well-known Step Pyramid at Saqqara, and you have the perfect day,” he says.

3. Eat local food

From kebab to kofta and everything in between, Egypt’s unique blend of Middle Eastern and North African flavours is a journey in its own right. For local eats, Gibson-Fawcett loves her leafy, Nile-side neighbourhood of Maadi in Cairo. “Try Barista for excellent coffee and Villa Caracas for superb Lebanese food served in a tranquil al fresco courtyard,” she says. “If I was famished after a day of sightseeing, I would make a beeline for Zööba to order the koshari. The traditional Egyptian street food combines pasta, vermicelli, chickpeas and lentils in the ultimate carb-fest, all topped with spicy tomato sauce and crisp onions.”

For seriously good food, service and prices in Luxor, local tour guide Mervat Salah highly rates Loqma Restaurant (pictured). “The food is typical Egyptian; order the chicken with okra.”

4. Catch some culture

Cairo can feel overwhelming at first, but it’s worth throwing yourself in the deep end. “Taking the metro is like immersing in street theatre – vendors go from carriage to carriage selling everything from jewellery to stationery and snacks. I love taking the metro around Ramadan, as everyone is dressed in their best outfits,” says Gibson-Fawcett. “I also love the Khan el-Khalili bazaar in the Islamic quarter. The souk dates back to the 14th century and you can find everything from jewellery to homewares, hand-embroidered scarves, oriental lamps and belly-dancing outfits. It’s a real labyrinth, so stick to the main thoroughfares and don’t be afraid to haggle.”

Beyond the streets, the capital’s museums are the custodians of some of ancient Egypt’s most precious artefacts. Built in 1902, the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square houses the largest collection of Pharaonic antiquities in the world. While perpetually busy, it’s still worth a visit. “Seeing the funerary mask of King Tutankhamun is unforgettable,” says Grove.

When the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) opens in Giza, now expected to be late this year, it will be the largest archaeological museum in the world, displaying 100,000 artefacts, including the tomb of Tutankhamun, which will move from its former spot. For a sneak-peek of certain sections, apply for a trial visit at grandegyptianmuseum.org/trialvisits.

5. Temple hop on the Nile

The first thing that strikes you about the Nile River is its poetic scenery: sandy plateaus and dunes rear up in the distance and lush palms, papyrus reeds and neatly swept riverside homes are sprinkled along its banks. Most cruises of Upper Egypt start in either Luxor or Aswan, and stop at small towns to sight landmarks along the way, including the Karnak Temple Complex, Valley of the Kings (pay extra to see the Tomb of Seti I, which is the most elaborate), Queen Hatshepsut’s temple, Edfu Temple and the Crocodile Museum next to the Kom Ombo temple – a must-visit for its enormous mummified Nile crocs, a reptile sacred to ancient Egyptians.

Travel light so you can take back some beautiful handmade keepsakes. “The Abo El Komsan shop at the heritage-listed alabaster village of handicrafts in Luxor is a beautiful place to visit,” says Salah.

A number of companies operate Nile cruises, including Viking, which has already announced departures for 2025 and 2026 on its newest ship Viking Sobek. “Book a one-night stay at the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan hotel (where Agatha Christie wrote Death on the Nile) before your cruise. It gives you the chance to visit the Abu Simbel temples as a daytrip, either by road or plane,” says Salah.

6. Ride a felucca

Sailing on a felucca, a traditional wooden boat, is one of Egypt’s most quintessential experiences. American-British writer, founder of noplacelike.it and Egypt guidebook author Lauren Keith says it’s one of the best ways to explore Upper Egypt. “Aswan has islands and cataracts, which makes the journey so much more interesting. It’s worth spending two or three days on one, travelling north down the Nile. The captain and skipper cook delicious meals right on the boat. Book in advance with a reputable company like Aswan Individual.”

7. Visit a Nubian village

Aswan is home to a large Nubian population, an ethnic group Indigenous to Northern Sudan and Southern Egypt, and exploring an authentic village should be at the top of your list. “I love walking around Gharb Soheil, a Nubian village on the west bank of the Nile from Aswan. The buildings are painted with murals or colourful architectural details – it’s pure eye candy,” says Keith.

Some tour operators, such as Explore Worldwide, will take you right into a home. “The experience is magical,” says Grove. “You have dinner in a house, reached by sandy paths, and sit in an open courtyard where you eat under the stars. It doesn’t feel like a tourist experience.”

8. Dive in the Red Sea

Egypt’s relics are widely known, but what might surprise you are the country’s dazzling beaches, reefs and world-class diving. Keith recommends Basata Eco-Lodge, north of Nuweibá.

“This place has iron-clad eco-credentials and a communal vibe. It’s the only place I’ve come across in Egypt that offers discounts for solo female travellers,” she says. “You can stay in a traditional palm-frond hut right on the beach or in one of the mud-brick chalets built with the environment in mind. In the morning, snorkel around coral reefs in the peaceful waters, just steps from where you slept.

“I loved diving in Marsa Alam with Red Sea Diving Safari. Few travellers make it this far south, but it’s truly worth the trek,” says Keith. “We saw tonnes of marine life including a dugong, several sea turtles, a huge pod of spinner dolphins and so much more. Red Sea Diving Safari has its own house reef and domed rooms a short walk from the beach. For coral reefs, I love Ras Mohammed National Park, the walls of corals in a kaleidoscope of colours are unforgettable.”

9. Discover an ancient city

Established by Alexander the Great in 332BC, Alexandria was one of the most important cities in the ancient world. Situated on the Mediterranean, it’s the second largest city in Egypt after Cairo and, despite losing some of its most significant antiquities, including the 280BC Lighthouse of Alexandria (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, which fell to a series of earthquakes) and the 285BC Library of Alexandria (for many centuries the cultural heart of the ancient Hellenic world before it fell to ruin), it’s still worth a look.

Visit the new library, Bibliotheca Alexandrina, and Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, feast on seafood and wander the seaside corniche.

When is the best month to travel to Egypt?

The low season in Egypt is between May and August,  and while temperatures can reach the mid-30s, it’s a good time to visit to avoid the crowds.

Do I have to tip in Egypt?

Tipping, known locally as “baksheesh”, is customary and expected in Egypt, so make sure you factor it into your budget.

What should I pack for a trip to Egypt?

Remember that Egypt is a conservative society. Pack lightweight pants, longer shorts and skirts, and long-sleeve shirts for visiting the ancient sites and when out in public.

Is it safe to travel to Egypt?

For up-to-date travel advice from the Australian government visit smartraveller.gov.au.

See also: 

Cairo guide: What to do in summer and winter

I stayed at Marriott Mena House Cairo, nothing compares

10 facts you may not know about the Egyptian pyramids