Top 6 Things to Do in Egypt with Kids

When we think of Egypt, the first thing that comes to mind is the incredible pyramids and Sphinx of Giza. Follow the path up the Grand Pyramid, standing as tall as you can in front of the giant blocks used to create this masterpiece, then step inside and walk down long passageways that lead to a large room holding an empty sarcophagus.

Let your explorations take you to Egypt’s oldest pyramid, the Step Pyramid, and marvel at the perfect simplicity this ancient structure represents. Take the steps down into the Unas Pyramid and spend some time admiring the inner setting of a truly unique structure.

Family-Friendly Highlights: Great Pyramids of Giza • Sphinx • Step Pyramid of Djoser • Unas Pyramid

No matter where you go in Egypt, you will be crossing paths with some of the world’s most magnificent architecture, temples standing strong as a reminder of an ancient world, and burial sites that intrigue. From Cairo to Aswan, Luxor to the banks of the Red Sea, there are temples small and large.

Comprising impressive statues of pharaohs and queens set among tall columns made out of stones and bricks, the remaining walls are alive with tales depicted in colorful hieroglyphics. Kids can make their way through hallways and into underground chambers to see tombs previously full of treasure, all part of an exciting adventure.

Family-Friendly Highlights: Temple of Luxor • Kom Ombo • Philae Temple • Valley of the Kings • Valley of the Queens • Karnak Temple

The allure of the red sand of the Sahara Desert sends out an invitation of impending adventure in the warm Egyptian sun, for kids and adults. Activities in the Red Land, as it is called, range from fun-filled 4x4 desert safaris, zooming around the dunes leaving swirls of dusty red behind you, to adrenalin-packed sandboarding, choosing as high as you want to ride this captivating landscape.

Take the pace down a notch and embark on a camel ride, the slower pace allowing you to take in your surroundings, and possibly a walk through a desert oasis, spotting small villages as you pass and working up a thirst for not just water, but more adventure.

Family-Friendly Highlights: Sahara Desert • Hurghada Desert • Sinai Desert • Giza for Camel Rides • Aswan’s Amber Desert

A key highlight when visiting Egypt is spending time on the famous Nile River. Running south to north, the Nile is said to be the longest river in the world and is alive with color by way of cruising vessels large and small. Embark on a three- or four-day adventure from Aswan to Luxor, or vice versa, your cruise stopping along the way for guests to go ashore and visit temples and valleys.

As you float along the river, kids can play a game of “I Spy” as they look out for anything from odd-shaped bushes to quirky ruins, cows, and monitor lizards. Marvel at modern engineering as you pass through the Esna Lock and enjoy onboard entertainment.

Family-Friendly Highlights: The Nile River • Aswan • Luxor • Esna Lock • Kom Ombo • Temple of Horus

The Egyptian Museum is a must-see on every visit to Cairo, full of fascinating artifacts and bursting with history and tales of ancient Egyptians and their lifestyle. From floor to floor, incredible architecture, marvelous statues, and haunting mummies lay in hallways and private rooms.

For a special treat, enter the room of the most famous Egyptian pharaoh, King Tutankhamun, where many of the treasures discovered in his sarcophagus in the Valley of the Kings are on display. Visit the mummies’ room for a somewhat spooky example of human and animal preservation, leaving young adventurers with a mine of information.

Family-Friendly Highlights: Egyptian Museum in Cairo • Karnak Museum • Luxor Museum • Aswan Museum • King Tut’s Tomb, Valley of the Kings

Escape to the coast along the Red Sea and enjoy time relaxing on the beach and playing in the sea, where an array of water activities are available in the popular seaside town of Hurghada. Turquoise waters invite kids to snorkel incredible reefs to delight in the spectacular coral wonderland and the warm Red Sea.

Sharm el Sheikh, on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, offers a tranquil time out for the entire family, with beautiful beaches and wonderful resorts. Discover water sports and boat rides, a charming town, and nearby hikes for those looking to mix some sand with soil.

Family-Friendly Highlights: Hurghada • Sharm el Sheikh • El Gouna

From temples to tombs, museums to mummies, sailing to safari, Egypt offers non-stop excitement for any young adventurer. Balance your visit with time spent on land and water as you visit pyramids, enjoy some time in the city, and cruise the Nile on our featured Egypt family tours.

Let your kids step back in time to a fascinating ancient world. Find the information you need to help envision the right trip for you and your family with our Egypt travel guide. Planning a trip with children can be a challenge, but our family vacation travel guide has tips and helpful information on how to travel with kids of all ages, and much more.