Visiting Egypt with Kids: Family-Friendly Activities and Tips
Egypt is a land of mystery, ancient history, and adventure – making it an ideal destination for a family vacation. With its rich cultural heritage, iconic landmarks, and unique experiences, Egypt offers something for everyone, including the little ones. Whether you’re exploring the pyramids of Giza, cruising down the Nile, or discovering the treasures of ancient tombs, there’s no shortage of family-friendly activities that will entertain and educate children of all ages.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best family-friendly activities in Egypt, provide useful tips for traveling with kids, and share how Matching Travels can help plan the perfect family vacation to this captivating country. With a bit of planning, your trip to Egypt can become a memorable adventure for the whole family.
Why Visit Egypt with Kids?
Egypt may not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning a family vacation, but it has an abundance of experiences that are perfect for children. The country’s fascinating history, stunning landscapes, and child-friendly attractions make it an excellent choice for families.
A Journey Through Time
For children, visiting Egypt is like stepping into a living history book. From the Great Pyramids of Giza to the Valley of the Kings, young explorers can marvel at the ancient structures and learn about the fascinating culture of the pharaohs. Many sites offer interactive experiences, including light and sound shows, children’s workshops, and guided tours that explain the significance of the monuments in an engaging and accessible way.
Educational Opportunities
Egypt offers countless educational opportunities for children to learn about archaeology, history, and ancient civilizations. It’s a great way to introduce children to the wonders of the world while nurturing their curiosity about the past. Whether they’re fascinated by mummies or enchanted by the tales of ancient gods, there’s plenty to fuel their imaginations.
Family-Friendly Destinations
Egypt is home to numerous attractions that cater to families. Whether it’s a visit to the zoo, taking a camel ride around the pyramids, or splashing around in a resort pool, there’s always something fun for kids to enjoy. Egypt’s family-friendly accommodations, guided tours, and welcoming atmosphere make it easy to travel with children of all ages.
Family-Friendly Activities in Egypt
Exploring the Pyramids of Giza
The Pyramids of Giza are undoubtedly the most iconic attractions in Egypt and are a must-see for any family visiting the country. These ancient structures are not only a marvel of engineering but also provide an exciting adventure for children.
Camel Rides Around the Pyramids
One of the best ways to explore the pyramids with kids is by taking a camel ride. Children will love the experience of riding on these majestic creatures as they take in the panoramic views of the Pyramids of Giza. Most tours offer short camel rides that are safe and enjoyable for families, with guides who ensure that everyone has a memorable experience.
Light and Sound Show
For an extra magical experience, consider attending the nightly Light and Sound Show at the Pyramids. The show is an excellent way to bring history to life with a dramatic retelling of Egypt’s ancient past. It’s a fun and engaging way for children to learn about the significance of the pyramids while enjoying an exciting spectacle of lights, music, and narration.
Visiting the Egyptian Museum in Cairo
The Egyptian Museum in Cairo is a treasure trove of ancient artifacts, including the famous Tutankhamun collection. It’s a fantastic place to introduce children to Egypt’s fascinating history.
Kid-Friendly Exhibits
While the museum is home to thousands of exhibits, there are specific sections that are particularly engaging for children. The mummies section is often a favorite, as kids can see the preserved remains of ancient pharaohs and learn about mummification in an interactive way. Many exhibits also have kid-friendly explanations, making them easier for younger visitors to understand.
Family Workshops and Activities
The museum occasionally offers special workshops and activities for children, where they can participate in hands-on projects like making clay tablets or learning how to write in hieroglyphs. These activities help children engage with Egypt’s culture in a fun and educational way.
Nile River Cruise
A Nile River cruise is one of the most relaxing and enjoyable ways to experience Egypt, and it’s especially great for families. Taking a cruise allows you to see multiple ancient sites while traveling in comfort, and the kids will love the boat rides, which can be both scenic and educational.
Family-Friendly River Cruises
Many cruise lines offer family-friendly amenities, including child-friendly meals, entertainment, and kid-specific excursions. Some cruises even have kids’ clubs, where young ones can enjoy crafts, games, and activities while parents relax on deck.
The route usually takes you to ancient sites like Luxor, Karnak, and the Valley of the Kings, where your family can explore temples, tombs, and monuments together.
Kid-Friendly Stops
A Nile cruise typically includes stops at some of Egypt’s most famous ancient sites, such as the Karnak Temple Complex and the Valley of the Kings. These stops often include family-friendly tours, where the guide will tailor the experience to be more engaging for children, with interactive storytelling and simple explanations of the historical significance of the sites.
The Red Sea: Beach and Adventure
For families looking for relaxation and adventure, Egypt’s Red Sea resorts offer the perfect combination of sun, sand, and activities.
Beach Resorts for Families
Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Marsa Alam are popular destinations for families seeking a beach getaway. The resorts in these areas are equipped with child-friendly pools, shallow beaches, and plenty of activities for kids, such as water sports, sandcastle building, and supervised kids’ clubs.
Snorkeling and Water Adventures
Older kids will enjoy snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea, where they can explore vibrant coral reefs and spot colorful fish. Many resorts offer guided snorkeling tours, which are safe for children and provide all the necessary equipment.
Alexandria: A City of Exploration
Alexandria is another fantastic destination for families visiting Egypt. Located on the Mediterranean coast, Alexandria offers a mix of ancient history and modern-day attractions.
The Alexandria National Museum
The Alexandria National Museum is a great spot to visit with children. It’s much smaller and more manageable than the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, making it easier for families to navigate. The museum has a variety of exhibits that highlight the city’s rich history, including ancient Egyptian artifacts, Greco-Roman antiquities, and Islamic art.
The Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa
For a bit of an adventure, take your kids to the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa. These underground tombs are a fascinating blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences and offer a unique exploration experience. Kids will love the mystery of these ancient tombs, and the experience is educational and exciting.
Tips for Traveling to Egypt with Kids
Choose the Right Time to Visit
Egypt can get extremely hot, especially during the summer months, so it’s important to plan your trip during a more moderate time of year. The best times to visit Egypt with kids are during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), when the weather is pleasant and not too hot for little ones.
Plan Your Itinerary Wisely
While Egypt has a lot to offer, it’s essential to pace your itinerary so that you don’t overwhelm your kids with too many activities in one day. Factor in rest times, breaks for snacks, and downtime to ensure that everyone stays energized and happy.
Use Family-Friendly Transportation
When traveling around Egypt, consider using family-friendly transportation options. Many tour operators, such as Matching Travels, offer private family tours with vehicles that have air conditioning and plenty of space for everyone. This ensures a comfortable and relaxing ride, especially during the warmer months.
Keep Hydrated and Sun-Protected
Egypt can get very hot, particularly in the summer months. Be sure to keep your kids hydrated by carrying plenty of water with you at all times. Also, make sure everyone is wearing sunscreen, hats, and lightweight clothing to protect from the sun.
Stay in Family-Friendly Accommodations
Many hotels and resorts in Egypt cater specifically to families, with amenities like kids’ clubs, family suites, and children’s pools. Matching Travels can help you choose the best family-friendly accommodations that will make your stay as comfortable as possible.
Bring Entertainment for the Kids
While Egypt offers plenty of exciting things to see and do, traveling can involve some waiting around, especially during bus rides or boat transfers. Be sure to pack entertainment for your kids, such as books, coloring materials, or electronic devices, to keep them occupied during longer periods of downtime.
How Matching Travels Can Help Plan Your Family Vacation to Egypt
When planning a family trip to Egypt, it’s important to have a reliable travel partner who understands the needs of families. Matching Travels specializes in curating family-friendly itineraries that include a mix of educational, fun, and relaxing activities for all ages. Whether you’re interested in private tours, kid-friendly accommodations, or customized itineraries, Matching Travels can help ensure your family’s trip to Egypt is unforgettable.
With their expertise and attention to detail, Matching Travels can help you plan the perfect vacation, taking care of all the logistics so you can focus on making memories with your loved ones.
Conclusion: A Family Adventure in Egypt
Egypt is a fantastic destination for families, offering a blend of ancient wonders, exciting activities, and unique cultural experiences. From the pyramids of Giza to the relaxing beaches of the Red Sea, there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy. By planning your trip with the right itinerary, and choosing family-friendly tours and accommodations, you can ensure that your trip to Egypt is both enjoyable and educational for the whole family.
