Cairo Tour By Big Bus From Sharm El Sheikh

Travelers curious about Egypt’s legendary sites often find themselves torn between the allure of Cairo and the convenience of staying closer to their resort in Sharm El Sheikh. This Cairo Tour by Big Bus promises a hassle-free way to tick off the Pyramids, Sphinx, and Egyptian Museum in just one day—without the need to fly or navigate the crowded streets on your own.

While some travelers love the value and guided experience, others have found the long hours on the bus and rushed itinerary less ideal. We’ll walk you through the ins and outs of this tour—what to expect, what you’ll get for the price, and whether it’s the right fit for your Egypt adventure.

Three things we like about this tour: the inclusion of a qualified Egyptologist guide, the convenience of hotel transfers, and the opportunity to see the Seven Wonders of the World in a single day.

One potential drawback? The long ride (around 7 hours each way) could feel tiring for some. It’s best suited for those eager to see Cairo’s highlights without the hassle of organizing their own transport or dealing with Cairo’s busy streets.

If you’re someone who values guided insights, wants to maximize their sightseeing time, and doesn’t mind a long day of travel, this tour could be a worthwhile choice.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with entrance tickets, guided commentary, and a buffet lunch.
• Convenient hotel pickups from central Sharm el Sheikh make starting easy.
• Visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Giza Pyramids and Egyptian Museum.
• Long travel hours mean comfort and patience are key for the full experience.
• Guided by Egyptologists who add context and stories to the sights.
• Optional Nile River trip available at extra cost, adding extra value for adventurers.

The Detailed Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: From Sharm El Sheikh to Cairo

The tour kicks off early, with a pickup from your Sharm el Sheikh hotel around 1:00 am. The journey to Cairo lasts approximately 7 hours, so packing snacks, water, or a good book is highly recommended. A review from a traveler named Tracee described the ride as “the longest, most uncomfortable ride I have ever been,” highlighting that this isn’t a leisurely drive. Still, the convenience of door-to-door transfer is a big plus for those who want to avoid flight bookings or complicated car rentals.

The bus is described as having a small toilet onboard, which can be a real help on such a lengthy trip. The group size caps at 35 travelers, helping to maintain a somewhat intimate atmosphere, but prepare for a bus filled with fellow history buffs or eager explorers.

The Egyptian Museum: A Treasure Trove

Your first stop in Cairo is the Egyptian Museum on Tahrir Square. Here, you’ll spend about 2 hours exploring one of the world’s largest collections of Egyptian artifacts. The guide will share stories about items like the famous funerary mask of Tutankhamun, discovered in 1922—an unmissable piece for history lovers.

One reviewer, Esther, felt that the museum was “cut short,” suggesting that a longer visit or skipping less relevant stops might improve the experience. The guided commentary helps contextualize the displays, making history come alive even in a short visit.

Nile River: Optional but Worth Considering

A brief 45-minute stroll along the Nile or a boat trip (at additional cost) is part of the itinerary. Some travelers might choose to skip this, especially if pressed for time, but the Nile’s atmosphere is captivating and provides some classic photo opportunities. Just note that the boat ride isn’t included in the standard package.

Giza Pyramids and Sphinx: The Star Attraction

Next up is the highlight—the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. You’ll visit the Great Pyramid of Cheops, the only remaining wonder of the original Seven, along with the Pyramids of Khafre and Menkaure. The guide, described as knowledgeable, will share insights into how these marvels were constructed, adding depth to your photos.

You’ll also get a panoramic view of all the pyramids, ideal for capturing that classic shot. The visit lasts around 2 hours, giving enough time to walk around, take pictures, and explore the Valley Temple, where the Sphinx is situated.

The Sphinx and Valley Temple

The Great Sphinx—a human-headed lion carved from limestone—stands proudly at Giza and is one of the most iconic symbols of Egypt. The tour allows approximately 30 minutes here, enough time for photos and a short explanation from your guide. Several reviews mention the preservation and grandeur of the Sphinx, making it a must-see for first-timers.

Papyrus Institute: A Craftsmanship Showcase

A visit to the Papyrus Institute offers a glimpse into ancient Egyptian artistry. Here, you’ll learn how the Egyptians used papyrus plants to create paper, and you might be tempted to purchase handmade souvenirs. This stop is 45 minutes long, and some travelers find it interesting, especially if they appreciate craftsmanship or want to support local artisans.

Returning to Cairo and the Long Ride Back

After the Giza visit, you’ll head back to Cairo for about 6 more hours, with stops for rest and refreshment. As one traveler noted, the return journey is equally long, and packed with the memories of a busy day. The bus is comfortable enough for the ride, but if you’re prone to motion sickness or fatigue, be prepared.

The Sum Up of the Day

You’ll arrive back in Sharm El Sheikh late at night, completing a roughly 20-22 hour trip. While the experience is intensive, many appreciate being able to see Cairo’s top sites in a single day—especially those with limited time or who prefer guided tours.

Practical Details and Tips

• Price & Value: At approximately $76.14 per person, this tour offers a lot—entrance fees, guides, transfers, and lunch—making it fairly good value for those who want a comprehensive day without extra planning.
• What’s Included: Entrance tickets to the key sites, a buffet lunch (drinks not included), and a qualified Egyptologist guide.
• What’s Not: Beverages, personal expenses, gratuities, and optional extras like the Nile boat ride or extra language guides. A visa fee of $25 is also necessary, payable upon arrival or on the day of the tour.
• Group Size: Limited to 35 travelers, which helps maintain a comfortable atmosphere, though the ride duration may test patience.
• Booking & Cancellation: Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the trip, giving some flexibility if plans change.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Reviews highlight some consistent themes. Many appreciated the knowledgeable guides who added context to the sites, making the experience more meaningful. One reviewer noted, “Our Egyptologist guide, whose name I wish I remembered, brought the sites to life with stories and historical details.”

However, some found the tour rushed, particularly at the pyramids, with Esther commenting that “all was done quickly, and I wish we had more time to enjoy the museum and the pyramids themselves.” A common sentiment is that the long travel hours diminish the overall enjoyment for some, but for others, the convenience outweighs the fatigue.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for history buffs eager to see the major Cairo highlights in a single day without the hassle of independent planning. It’s perfect for those who appreciate guided commentary and want to maximize their sightseeing.

If you dislike long bus rides or prefer a more relaxed pace, you might find this experience a bit exhausting. It’s also suited for travelers on a tight schedule or those who want a straightforward, all-inclusive package.

Final Thoughts

The Cairo Tour by Big Bus offers a practical way to visit Egypt’s most iconic sights from Sharm El Sheikh. While the long hours on the road might not suit everyone, the convenience, guided insights, and inclusion of key UNESCO sites make it a compelling option for many travelers.

It’s best suited for curious travelers who value expert guiding, are comfortable with a full day of travel, and want a guided overview of Cairo’s highlights. For those seeking depth and a leisurely experience, a private or multi-day tour might be better. But for a quick, all-in-one introduction to Egypt’s ancient wonders, this tour delivers — with a few caveats on comfort and pacing.

FAQ

How long is the bus ride from Sharm El Sheikh to Cairo?
The journey takes about 7 hours each way, so expect a total of around 14 hours in travel time. Be prepared for a long day.

Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers an oriental open buffet lunch, but drinks are at your own expense.

Do I need a visa for Egypt?
Yes, a $25 visa fee is required, which you can get upon arrival at the airport or on the day of your tour.

What sites do we visit?
You’ll see the Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, Egyptian Museum, Papyrus Institute, and have the option to visit the Nile River, depending on your preferences.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While most travelers can participate, the long hours and walking may be tiring for elderly travelers or young children. Always consider individual stamina.

Can I customize or extend my visit?
If you want to stay longer in Cairo or make special arrangements, you should notify the provider at least 24 hours in advance for confirmation.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 35 travelers, which helps keep the experience manageable but still lively.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather—if canceled due to weather conditions, you’ll get a full refund or a different date.

To sum it up, this tour offers a straightforward, guided approach to Egypt’s must-see sites, perfect for travelers who want to tick off the main attractions efficiently. Be ready for a full day, some long hours, and plenty of memories packed into one adventure.