More than just the pyramids, Egypt offers a range of activities, including Nile cruises, Red Sea diving, Bedouin evenings in the desert, and interactive museum exhibits. With careful planning, families of all sizes, with children of any age, can explore Egypt’s antiquities, beach hotels, and deserts without a single difficult moment.
In this guide, you will find the 15 best family activities in Egypt, city by city, with prices and age guidelines.
Why I Created This Guide – An Introduction from Momo
In my 25 years as an official guide, I have led many families around the Giza plateau. I have seen a seven-year-old girl cry with sheer amazement at the size of Khufu’s pyramid when she was face to face with it; she wasn’t crying from tiredness. I have seen teens brought here under duress turn into enthusiastic archaeologists inside the Valley of the Kings, bombarding me with all sorts of questions, which I gladly answered. I have seen families come poorly prepared for Egypt in the bad weather, wearing the wrong shoes, and without any idea about what to do once they are here.
That’s why I created this guide. It’s not a brochure; it’s the conversation I have with every family before we take off together. There is probably no better place than Egypt to travel with your kids. You just need to prepare for it properly. And I will help you do just that.
Is Egypt Safe for Family Travel With Children?
It’s certainly the number-one question parents ask. And the unequivocal answer? Yes… but only in the right destinations and through a sensible approach.
Major tourist destinations such as Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, and Sharm el-Sheikh are all safe, highly supervised, and actually very friendly toward children. In fact, one of the warmest countries towards kids in the world is Egypt. Egyptians love children. Your kids will be welcomed, pampered, and fed sweets even in markets faster than you can say hello. This is an important consideration.
Practically speaking, safety involves staying within designated tourist areas and utilizing reputable services such as licensed tour guides and approved transportation providers. Dealing with petty annoyances such as unlicensed vendors around the pyramids is par for the course — a simple no, thank you suffices. The situation does not involve danger.
There is one absolute no-go destination for tourists in general and families in particular – North Sinai, which isn’t a tourist destination to begin with. Otherwise, all others listed here are perfectly suitable.
For a deeper breakdown, read our full guide: Is Egypt Safe to Travel?
When to Visit Egypt with Kids
The best time to visit Egypt with children is October through April. Temperatures are comfortable — Cairo sits around 20–25°C (68–77°F), Luxor around 28°C (82°F). You can walk temple sites, explore the Giza plateau, and sail the Nile without anyone wilting.
June through August would be too harsh. During July, Luxor usually has temperatures of 42°C (107°F). Even after guiding in such conditions for over 25 years, I still do not advise parents to bring their kids during the summer months. Should you have no other choice but to go in summer, try arranging sightseeing tours from 9 am till 4 pm, leaving plenty of breaks for midday at the hotel swimming pool.
December and January are my favorite periods to travel with kids – cool, peaceful, and very enchanting. For instance, visiting Karnak Temple during January with a bit of chilly breeze is a memory I will never forget.
Age Guide: What Works at Each Stage
| Child’s Age | Best Activities | What to Manage |
|---|---|---|
| Under 5 | Beach resorts, felucca rides, camel ride at Giza | Heat, long walks, no strollers on sandy terrain |
| 5–8 | Pyramids, Grand Egyptian Museum, Nile cruise | Short attention spans — hire a storytelling guide |
| 8–12 | Valley of the Kings, Karnak, snorkeling, desert | This is the sweet spot — they absorb everything |
| 13+ | All of the above + sandboarding, diving, night desert | Virtually unlimited — they will ask to come back |
Family Activities in Cairo
1- The Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
No tour would be complete without visiting the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. These are the only remaining wonders of the ancient world, and to stand before these pyramids with one’s children and watch them marvel can never be forgotten by any parent who has done so.
My sincere advice to parents: visit the location as soon as it opens at 8:00 am. The lighting is superb, the weather is cooler, and there are hardly any visitors around. At 10 am, the experience is totally different. Parents should remember to bring hats and water for everyone, even their toddlers.
A trip inside the Great Pyramid is not something I recommend for young children. This is because the tunnel drops sharply, and it’s warm and confined. But this is great for children above a certain age as well as for grown-ups who aren’t claustrophobic. The outside is where the real magic happens.
The services offered by the camels near the entry gates vary widely in quality. Please stick to those recommended by your guide and hotel operator. No one wants an ill-conditioned camel on their memory.
Entrance Fees:
- Giza Plateau: EGP 750 (~ $15 USD) for adults / EGP 350 (~ 7$ ) for kids
- Inside Great Pyramid: EGP 1500 (~$29) extra
- Enclosure of the Sphinx: included with Giza Plateau ticket
Momo’s pro tip: Book a private tour of the pyramids with an Egyptologist guide. Children respond to stories, not facts. A good guide turns the Pyramids from mere stone structures into something alive. I have watched distracted eight-year-olds become completely riveted once the story of Khufu begins properly.
2- The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)
The Grand Egyptian Museum opened near the Giza Plateau, and in my opinion, it is the best museum experience for any family in the Middle East. The concept of this museum was to attract visitors through stories rather than by filling them with artifacts, which it does successfully.
The galleries dedicated to Tutankhamun, in particular, are something worth experiencing. The golden death mask of Tutankhamun, the gilded throne, the golden shrine of Tutankhamun — children who have heard any stories about ancient Egypt would be astonished. I’ve seen it firsthand.
Set aside 2-3 hours for your visit. It is quite spacious and cool inside, a welcome relief from the plateau. You can enjoy tea/coffee at the in-house café. The gift shop offers excellent replicas at good prices – more so than anything outside the premises.
Entrance Fee (approximately): EGP 1500 ($28) adults / EGP 750 ($15) children
3- Pharaonic Village
This is one that is bound to surprise whole families. The Pharaonic Village on Jacob’s Island in the Nile Valley near Giza is an open-air museum where the actors, in costume, portray life in ancient Egypt — from agriculture to boat making, baking to hieroglyphic writing. The experience includes boat transportation around it.
It may not be on par with the Pyramids or the GEM. However, for kids under 10, it is often the most memorable experience in Cairo. It is hands-on, storytelling, and utterly engaging. Your kids will learn how to make hieroglyphics, touch replicas of artifacts, and witness ancient crafts in action. There is also a good replica of the Tomb of Tutankhamen.
Momo’s tip: It is a half-day tour. Ideally done in the morning and combined with an afternoon at the GEM.
4- Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
Egypt’s medieval bazaar in Cairo is noisy, aromatic, utterly chaotic – and absolutely alive! This is an extraordinary sensory experience that children with the stamina to participate will find absolutely mind-blowing.
The spices, the copper, the juice vendors – these people create such a physical, tangible atmosphere that kids who are used to staring into screens all day will be amazed by what they see. I usually guide my clients here for around 90 minutes. This gives them enough time to get the feel of the place, purchase a few items, taste some sugarcane juice, and leave the bazaar still smiling.
Useful information: hold your kids’ hands when moving through crowded areas, put your bags in front of you, and feel free to refuse vendors’ offers without feeling like you owe them anything. A smile and a wave will go a long way.
For a deeper look at what Cairo offers beyond the Pyramids, see our guide: Things to Do in Cairo
Family Activities in Luxor and Aswan
5- The Valley of the Kings
While the Pyramids may be what kids envision before traveling to Egypt, the Valley of the Kings will ensure they are obsessed with Egypt for life.
This is the domain of Tutankhamun. Here lie the burial sites of the pharaohs of the New Kingdom, such as Ramesses II, Seti I, and Tutankhamun, in beautifully decorated tombs dug into the limestone cliffs west of Luxor. A standard ticket allows access to three tombs. Every tomb is decorated from top to bottom with hieroglyphics and paintings that are 3,000 years old.
Youngsters who are eight years old or older will react to the Valley of the Kings strongly, especially when there is a good guide who can explain what the paintings represent: the journey of the soul into the land of the dead, the weighing of the heart, and the gods guarding the gates to the other side. This is not history. This is a myth.
Admission: Approximately EGP 600 ($12) per adult; EGP 300 ($6) for a child. The price includes access to three tombs. Entrance to King Tut’s tomb costs extra: EGP 300 (~$6).
6- Karnak Temple – Recommended for Families
Of the two wonders, the Pyramids and the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple is the one that often goes unnoticed by families. This is a huge misunderstanding.
Karnak Temple is the largest religious structure ever built by any civilization in history. Just seeing the sheer size of the Hypostyle Hall itself – 134 columns, with the tallest at 21 meters – will instill in your kids a sense of awe that can only be explained by genuine reverence for this magnificent place.
The trick I use with children is always simple but highly effective. Touch the column, feel its coolness, remember that this stone was carved 3,300 years ago.
The Karnak Sound and Light Show takes place on selected days in several languages and is definitely worth seeing for families with kids who have grown up. The temple’s lighting creates an amazing atmosphere at night, bringing history to life in a way that can only be experienced after dark.
Ticket Prices (approximate): Adults – EGP 450 (about $9); Children – EGP 200 (about $4)
7- Sailing a Felucca on the Nile
It is one of the easiest things mentioned in this guide and one that families fondly recall.
A felucca is a typical Egyptian wooden sailing boat — broad, flat-bottomed, highly stable, and also very silent. It comes equipped with a sailor, and you go around the Nile in it for one to two hours at a stretch without any engine noise whatsoever. There is just the whisper of the breeze, the gentle flow of water, and the date trees along the riverbanks, while your kids ask about the whereabouts of the pyramids.
The experience of felucca sailing in Aswan is simply magical, with the Nile’s broadest and most pristine waters, the glowing Nubian villages along its banks, and a pace of life that is truly slow and peaceful, surprising city people to no end.
8- Nile Cruising — From Luxor to Aswan
Families that wish to see both Luxor and Aswan without having to endure the hassles involved in changing hotels in between the two should take a Nile cruise. And it is certainly among the most delightful ways of traveling with children that I know of.
The traditional journey takes four to seven days from Luxor to Aswan (or vice versa), calling at several temples along the way, including Esna, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae. The ships have swimming pools. The food is great. There is no need to worry about the kids. You wake up to something magical every day.
Children aged five and above typically do very well on Nile cruises. Under five, it depends on the child. Most premium boats do not accept children under seven — check before booking.
See our full range: Nile Cruise Luxor to Aswan
9- Abu Simbel — For the Right Family
I mention this one with full honesty. Abu Simbel – the rock-cut temples of Ramses II in southern Egypt — is one of the most breathtaking sites you can visit in your lifetime. The four massive colossi of Ramses II at the gateway entrance to the temple complex, 20 meters high, provide something that no photograph can actually prepare you for.
It is very distant. You need a flight from Aswan or a very early morning ride to visit it. If you have young kids under 8 or a family with a tight itinerary, I normally advise skipping it until they are old enough to fully appreciate it.
If you have kids above the age of eight or teenagers interested in Egyptian history, don’t miss this place.
Family Activities on the Red Sea
10- Hurghada — Beaches, Snorkeling, and Marine Life
Hurghada can be reached by road within four hours from Cairo along the Red Sea coast and offers something no other place in Egypt offers: beaches, warm, transparent waters, and one of the most colorful coral systems for novices.
Kids snorkeling in this area will encounter parrotfish, lionfish, rays, and huge schools of tiny fish against the backdrop of incredibly transparent waters, unlike anything else. The reefs are close to the shore; the waters in the bay are calm. There are plenty of good beach hotels for kids to stay here; all of them are relatively cheap.
If parents are taking their children to explore both Egypt and its beach resorts, Hurghada might serve as a perfect finale after a few days in Cairo and Luxor.
11- Sharm el-Sheikh – Water Parks and Adventure Controlled
Sharm el-Sheikh, located in the southernmost part of the Sinai Peninsula, is the most developed tourist area in Egypt. The region is most similar to any other place in Europe in terms of its infrastructure and amenities, and thus represents a good choice for a family seeking both comfort and adventure.
The snorkeling and diving offered around Ras Mohammed Nature Reserve, which lies just south of Sharm, is truly outstanding. Indeed, these conditions represent the very best that can be found anywhere in the world. If you have older kids who like to dive, you will not go wrong.
There is also a well-kept water park, Aqua Blue, that children of all ages will enjoy. Parents looking to spend a single day with their eyes closed to any history can turn to this location.
Desert Adventures the Whole Family Will Love
12- Riding a Camel on the Giza Plateau
Every child has wished to ride a camel when planning their Egyptian trip, and there is no better way to see the pyramids than this! Looking at the majestic pyramids from your camel’s back and seeing all of Cairo beyond them is an unforgettable sight for any family visiting!
Practical hint: Always bargain on the price beforehand as you get on your camel. Make sure you set a price for a round trip. Children up to five years old ride in front of an adult and do not get their own camel. Camels are accustomed to tourists and are generally not aggressive, but the process of mounting and dismounting can feel pretty rough – be prepared.
Price (approximate): EGP 200-300 ($4-6 USD per person for 30 minutes).
13- Desert Safari & Sandboarding
If you are traveling with kids aged eight and above, the evening desert safari is one of the most exciting things you can do in Egypt. This generally entails a jeep journey into the Egyptian desert outside of Cairo or near Hurghada, sandboarding in the dunes, a sunset break including tea, and a meal under a Bedouin-style tent.
Children absolutely adore the sandboarding more than anything else. This activity requires no skill, and results come instantly. It consists of running up to the top of the dune and then sliding back down over and over again.
Dinner at a camp for Bedouins – an event held on cushions in the open air, with the sky full of stars that city kids have actually never witnessed in their lives – is what I have seen affect kids’ attitudes to the great outdoors in one go.
Approximate cost per person: EGP 800 – 1,500 (~ $16 – 30 USD)
14. The Felucca Sunset in Aswan – An Even More Peaceful Time in the Desert
This comes up separately from the general felucca trip, as the Aswan sunset experience is something uniquely wonderful for a family.
Aswan is drier, more tranquil, and warmer in winter than Cairo and Luxor. Going out for a sunset sail in the months of December or January, where you can see the Sahara Desert to your right and Nubian villages to your left, without hearing any noise at all – this is one peace that many families have never experienced before.
15. Hot Air Balloon Tour over Luxor
Though officially a dawn-time activity, not a desert tour, I list this here since it is set against the backdrop of the surrounding environment.
Ride hot air balloons over the West Bank of Luxor at sunrise, taking in the sights of the Valley of the Kings, the temples, the Nile River, and the desert that stretches into the south of Luxor. This tour lasts about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
The child needs to be at least six years old to participate. Lap children are accepted by some agencies. The hot air balloon basket encloses up to waist level.
Estimated cost: $80-$120 USD per person. Please book through a recommended operator, as quality can vary widely.
Pro tip from Momo: This is hands down one of the most beautiful experiences that I have ever witnessed over 25 years working in Egypt. Sunrise over the valley from up high when the sun hits the cliff sides – thousands of people have been guided by me here, and the balloon ride never gets old.
Practical Tips for Traveling in Egypt with Kids
Heat and Sun
This is especially true for the shoulder seasons (October, November, March). In Egypt, even during these shoulder seasons, the strength of the sun cannot be underestimated. It is absolutely necessary that your child wears a UV-protection hat. It will help protect from harsh sunlight and skin diseases.
It is advisable to apply reef-safe sunscreen before leaving the hotel to minimize exposure and irritation. Archaeological sites lack shade; therefore, children tire more quickly than usual when visiting foreign countries.
In the summer season (June – August), no more than two hours should be spent on outdoor tours. This applies to places like Luxor and Aswan, where temperatures are extremely high for young kids who are not fully hydrated.
Packing Essentials
- Wide-brim hats for everyone in your family
- Reef-safe sunscreen (difficult to obtain at reasonable prices in Egypt)
- Water bottles for continuous drinking
- Modest dresses to cover shoulders and knees for temples and mosques
- Sandals and footwear for sandy and rocky paths
- Layered dresses for cool evenings, especially from November to February
- Oral rehydration packs, just in case of stomach upsets
Baby Strollers and Sandy Terrain
Tip: Do not bring a stroller to archaeological sites. The terrain of Giza is sand and packed rocks; Karnak features uneven stone pavement; the Valley of the Kings consists of loose gravel hills. It is much easier to wear your toddler in a sling or a hip baby carrier.
Food
Egyptian cuisine is extremely child-friendly. Koshary (rice, lentils, pasta, tomato sauce) is tasty and nutritious. The bread in Egypt is fabulous – Egyptian flatbread, served warm with cheese and honey, was our children’s staple while they were growing up. Falafel, grilled chicken, various rice-based dishes, and fruit are available throughout Egypt, and kids will love them without any experimentation.
Avoid the temptation to use street food for babies and toddlers; not because it can harm, but because the stomachs of small children are still getting used to a different environment. Let them eat from restaurants for the first couple of days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Egypt safe to visit with young children?
Yes. All the major tourist spots in Egypt — including Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, and Sharm el-Sheikh — are safe and suitable for kids. It’s also true that the country is quite well-developed from a tourism perspective, offering good local transportation and a society that is quite welcoming towards children. The only real threat is natural, and that is related to heat and difficult ground surfaces at historic locations.
What is the best age to bring children to Egypt?
Those between the ages of eight and twelve can appreciate visiting Egypt’s ancient sites, as they are old enough to understand the history yet still amazed by it. However, it should be noted that Egypt will cater to everyone, depending on how it is organized. Small children will enjoy beach destinations and sailing on a felucca boat. Meanwhile, teenagers are most likely to become the most interested visitors when the guide starts explaining the Valley of the Kings.
How many days do families need in Egypt?
Seven days are sufficient to enjoy a satisfactory tour including Cairo, one Nile City such as Luxor/Aswan, and the Red Sea. If ten days are available, include Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and the Red Sea; you will not be rushing around. In fourteen days, include Abu Simbel, a Nile Cruise, and some leisure time.
Are Nile cruises suitable for children?
Yes, with a caution on age. Children aged seven to eight and older can easily sail on Nile Cruises, as the cruises are well-organized. They are also equipped with facilities such as pools and kids’ games. However, parents with kids below the age of five can still plan a Nile Cruise, but with careful planning.
What is the best base city for a family trip to Egypt?
Cairo is used by most families as the initial point since flights operate there, and the city is home to many landmarks. Families who travel to Cairo will usually visit Luxor and Aswan to the south (by either domestic flight or Nile cruise) before heading east to the Red Sea for some beach time on their final days in Egypt. The sequence, from history to beach, is an excellent way to finish a holiday when traveling with kids.
Do children get discounts at Egyptian attractions?
Yes. Almost all popular tourist attractions offer half-price or reduced pricing for children. In addition, most are completely free for kids under 5 or 6. This definitely makes an impact if you plan to spend about 10 days sightseeing. It is always good to have their ages handy in case you need proof.
A Final Note from Momo
I have spent 25 years helping families experience Egypt, and there is nothing I love more than seeing their expressions light up when they realize that what used to be just a picture in a book or a lesson in school is actually before their eyes, in real-life stone, and in a country that they are physically standing in. That look does not diminish in intensity; on the contrary, I appreciate it even more with each trip I organize.
Families will need to take care of a few extra things while in Egypt. First, they have to come prepared for the weather. Second, they have to budget their energy. Third, they have to keep their children engaged in ways a theme park cannot. Yet what it offers in return is truly unmatched.
If you are planning a family trip and want someone to take care of the details — the right sites at the right time of day, transportation, and storytelling — I would be glad to help.
