North Africa

Egypt

The pyramids, Nile temples, and Red Sea reefs at rock-bottom prices — Egypt is one of the most spectacular budget destinations on the planet.

The pyramids of Giza and the smaller queens' pyramids rising from the desert sand under a clear sky
Photo: Ricardo Liberato, CC BY-SA 2.0

Egypt is a bucket-list destination that’s remarkably cheap on the ground. The currency has lost much of its value in recent years, which stretches foreign money a long way.

Why it’s cheap

Hostels and budget hotels in Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan cost $8–20 a night, a plate of koshari is about $1, and falafel sandwiches are a fraction of that. Site entry fees are the main cost, so plan which ones matter most to you.

Getting around

Trains run along the Nile from Cairo to Luxor and Aswan, and the overnight sleeper saves a night’s accommodation. Use Uber or Careem in Cairo to avoid haggling over taxi fares.

Where budget meets comfort

Dahab on the Red Sea is a backpacker favourite, with seafront rooms for $15–25 and some of the world’s cheapest dive courses. In Luxor, West Bank guesthouses offer Nile views for a fraction of hotel prices.