Egypt on Points: The Pyramids, the Nile, and Beyond
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You've seen the photos a thousand times. The Great Pyramid. The Sphinx. That impossible silhouette against an amber sky. You've seen it so many times, in fact, that some part of your brain has filed it under "famous thing I already understand."
Then you stand in front of it.
The Great Pyramid of Giza is 481 feet tall, built from 2.3 million stone blocks, and is 4,500 years old. It was ancient when Cleopatra was alive — she lived closer in time to us than to the pyramid builders. Standing at its base, your neck craned upward, your hand on stone that was placed before the invention of the wheel, you realize the photos captured approximately zero percent of what this feels like.
Egypt does this to you. It takes everything you thought you knew and replaces it with something bigger, older, and more astonishing than your imagination had room for. The temples at Luxor. The Valley of the Kings. The Nile — still flowing, still sustaining, still reflecting sunsets that Pharaohs watched.
And here's the thing that makes us smile: Egypt is one of the most accessible bucket-list destinations in the points world. EgyptAir is a Star Alliance member. Marriott and Hilton have stunning Nile-view properties in Cairo and Luxor. The country itself is remarkably affordable once you arrive. And for travelers over 55 who've been saying "someday" about the pyramids — someday is looking very achievable.
Let's plan your trip.
Getting There: EgyptAir via Star Alliance
EgyptAir, Egypt's flag carrier, is a Star Alliance member — which means you can book flights to Cairo (CAI) using United MileagePlus, Aeroplan, Avianca LifeMiles, and other Star Alliance programs, all funded by transferring Chase Ultimate Rewards or Amex Membership Rewards points.
EgyptAir operates nonstop flights from New York (JFK) and Washington Dulles (IAD) to Cairo, with the JFK route running approximately 11 hours. From other US cities, you'll connect through a European hub (Frankfurt, Istanbul, London) on Star Alliance partners like Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, or United.
Business Class Options
EgyptAir's business class on their Boeing 787 Dreamliner (used on long-haul routes) is a pleasant surprise — lie-flat seats, decent meal service, and a quiet cabin. It's not Swiss or ANA, but for the points cost, it's solid value.
| Route | Program | Points (Round Trip) | Cash Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NYC (JFK) → Cairo | Aeroplan (via Chase UR or Amex MR) | 90,000–130,000 | $3,000–$6,000 | EgyptAir nonstop; best availability |
| NYC (JFK) → Cairo | United MileagePlus (via Chase UR) | 110,000–160,000 | $3,000–$6,000 | Dynamic pricing; EgyptAir or Lufthansa routing |
| NYC (JFK) → Cairo | Avianca LifeMiles (via Chase/Amex/Citi) | 87,000–100,000 | $3,000–$6,000 | Fixed chart; transfer from Chase or Amex |
| East Coast → Cairo | Turkish Airlines (via Citi TY) | 90,000–105,000 | $3,000–$6,000 | Via Istanbul; Turkish business class is excellent |
| West Coast → Cairo | Aeroplan (via Chase UR or Amex MR) | 100,000–150,000 | $4,000–$8,000 | Via Europe; longer routing but still strong value |
The WanderWise move: For the best value, transfer Chase UR or Amex MR to Aeroplan and book EgyptAir's nonstop from JFK to Cairo. At 90,000–130,000 Aeroplan points round trip for business class, you're saving $3,000–$6,000 per person. EgyptAir's 787 business class features lie-flat seats with direct aisle access and a meal service that introduces you to Egyptian cuisine before you've even landed — think koshary, grilled meats, and baklava.
The Turkish Airlines alternative: If you're connecting anyway, consider routing through Istanbul on Turkish Airlines. Their business class is genuinely world-class — a chef on board, an extensive lounge at Istanbul Airport, and lie-flat seats that rival any airline. Book through Turkish Miles&Smiles (transfer from Citi ThankYou points) at approximately 90,000–105,000 miles round trip.
Economy Class Options
Economy to Cairo is a longer haul (11 hours nonstop, 14–18 with connections), but the points savings are substantial.
| Route | Program | Points (Round Trip) | Cash Equivalent | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NYC → Cairo | United MileagePlus (via Chase UR) | 60,000–85,000 | $700–$1,400 | Saver awards on EgyptAir or Star Alliance |
| NYC → Cairo | Aeroplan (via Chase UR or Amex MR) | 50,000–75,000 | $700–$1,400 | Often best economy pricing |
| Any US City → Cairo | Capital One Miles | Varies | Varies | Portal booking at 1¢/mile |
| Any US City → Cairo | Turkish Airlines (via Citi TY) | 60,000–75,000 | $700–$1,400 | Via Istanbul; good economy product |
Taxes and fees: Award flights on EgyptAir generally carry low fuel surcharges — expect $50–$150 round trip per person. This is a significant advantage over European carriers that load on surcharges. Turkish Airlines through Miles&Smiles also has reasonable surcharges.
Where to Stay: Cairo Hotels on Points
Cairo's hotel scene is anchored by two views: the pyramids and the Nile. The good news for points travelers? Both Marriott and Hilton have flagship properties that deliver on both fronts.
Marriott Properties
| Hotel | Points/Night | Cash Rate (Approx.) | Why We Love It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marriott Mena House, Cairo | 40,000–60,000 Bonvoy | $250–$500 | Pyramid views from your room. Not "near" the pyramids — literally AT the pyramids. |
| Le Méridien Cairo Airport | 20,000–30,000 Bonvoy | $100–$200 | Solid arrival/departure hotel if your flight lands late |
| Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino | 30,000–45,000 Bonvoy | $150–$300 | Nile-view palace originally built for Empress Eugénie in 1869 |
The WanderWise move: The Marriott Mena House is one of the most iconic hotel experiences in the world — and it's bookable on points. Built in 1869 as a hunting lodge for the Khedive of Egypt, it sits at the base of the Giza plateau. Request a pyramid-view room and you will wake up, pull back the curtains, and see the Great Pyramid of Giza filling your window. At 40,000–60,000 Bonvoy points per night versus $300–$500 cash, this is an emotional redemption — the kind that makes you say "this is why I collect points." Three nights: 120,000–180,000 Bonvoy points.
The Cairo Marriott is the Nile alternative — a palace originally built to host European royalty at the Suez Canal opening. The gardens, the Nile-view terrace, and the sense of history are remarkable, and it's centrally located for exploring Islamic Cairo, the Egyptian Museum, and the Khan el-Khalili bazaar.
Hilton Properties
| Hotel | Points/Night | Cash Rate (Approx.) | Why We Love It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hilton Cairo Nile Maadi | 30,000–50,000 Hilton Honors | $120–$250 | Nile views, quieter neighborhood, great value |
| Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo | 60,000–95,000 Bonvoy | $300–$600 | Ultra-luxury, commanding Nile and Tahrir Square views |
| Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa | 30,000–50,000 Hilton Honors | $100–$250 | Nile-front in Luxor; perfect pre/post-cruise base |
The WanderWise move: Split your Cairo stay. Start at the Marriott Mena House (for the pyramid experience), then move to the Cairo Marriott or Nile Ritz-Carlton for your Nile-side Cairo days. Two different perspectives on one of the world's great cities, both covered on points.
Luxor Hotels on Points
| Hotel | Program | Points/Night | Cash Rate (Approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa | Hilton Honors | 30,000–50,000 | $100–$250 | Nile-front, pools, gardens; the best points option in Luxor |
| Steigenberger Nile Palace Luxor | — | Cash only | $120–$200 | Solid alternative with Nile views |
| Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor | Accor | Points or cash | $200–$400 | Agatha Christie wrote "Death on the Nile" here. Need we say more? |
The Nile Cruise: Egypt's Essential Experience
A Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan is not just "nice to do" — it's the way to see Egypt. The temples of Karnak, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae are strung along the river like beads on a necklace, and approaching them by water — as travelers have for millennia — adds a dimension that no bus tour can replicate.
Nile Cruise Options
| Cruise Line | Duration | Route | Approx. Cost (per person) | Experience Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viking River Cruises (MS Osiris/Aton) | 12 days (Cairo–Aswan) | Full Nile experience including Cairo | $5,000–$9,000 | Premium — all-inclusive with flights within Egypt |
| AmaWaterways (AmaDahlia) | 7 days (Luxor–Aswan roundtrip) | Classic Nile cruise | $3,500–$6,500 | Luxury — newer ship, excellent guides |
| Uniworld (SS Sphinx) | 12 days (Cairo–Aswan) | Full Egyptian immersion | $5,500–$10,000 | Ultra-luxury — boutique ship |
| Oberoi Philae | 4–5 nights (Luxor–Aswan) | Classic Nile route | $3,000–$5,000 | Intimate luxury; 22 cabins only |
| Budget Nile boats (various) | 3–4 nights (Luxor–Aswan) | Standard route | $400–$1,200 | Basic but functional; book in Luxor |
The WanderWise move: Don't try to cover the Nile cruise itself with points — it's not the best use of them. Instead, apply the same strategy we recommend for river cruises everywhere: use points for flights (saving $6,000–$12,000 for two in business class), pre/post-cruise hotels in Cairo and Luxor (saving another $1,000–$2,000), and pay cash for the cruise.
With this approach, a couple can do the full Egypt experience — business class flights, Pyramid-view hotel in Cairo, 4–5 night Nile cruise, Luxor and Aswan — for $4,000–$8,000 out of pocket total. The same trip, all cash, runs $14,000–$28,000.
For a deeper dive on river cruise strategy, see our Complete Guide to River Cruises on Points.
Which Cruise to Choose?
- Viking or Uniworld (12 days): Best for first-timers who want the full Cairo-to-Aswan experience with flights, guides, and logistics handled. These are "show up and everything works" trips.
- AmaWaterways or Oberoi (4–7 days): Best for travelers who want to explore Cairo independently, then cruise the classic Luxor–Aswan stretch. More flexibility, fewer days committed.
- Budget boats (3–4 nights): Functional but variable quality. Perfectly fine if you're comfortable with basic accommodations and want to allocate budget elsewhere. Book in Luxor through a reputable local agency — your hotel concierge can recommend one.
The 10-Day Egypt Itinerary
This itinerary gives Egypt the time it deserves. The pace is deliberate — you're not racing through millennia of history in a long weekend.
Days 1–3: Cairo
Day 1: Arrive in Cairo
- Arrive at Cairo International Airport (CAI). Arrange hotel transfer in advance (your hotel will organize this).
- Check in at the Marriott Mena House (40,000–60,000 Bonvoy points/night).
- If you arrive during daylight: step onto your balcony. The pyramids are right there. Let that sink in.
- Light dinner at the hotel's Indian restaurant (excellent) or the Garden Terrace overlooking the pyramids.
- Recovery day. Cairo will energize you tomorrow.
Day 2: The Pyramids & Sphinx
- Morning: The Giza Plateau. You're staying at its doorstep, so arrive early — before the tour buses. Explore the Great Pyramid, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Sphinx. A licensed guide (arranged through your hotel) transforms the experience from "big stones" to "jaw-dropping history."
- Afternoon: The Grand Egyptian Museum (opened 2024). This is the new flagship — 100,000+ artifacts including the complete Tutankhamun collection. Plan 3–4 hours minimum. It's air-conditioned and well-organized.
- Evening: Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids. Somewhat theatrical, entirely unforgettable when the Sphinx is illuminated against the night sky.
Day 3: Islamic Cairo & the Nile
- Move to the Cairo Marriott or Nile Ritz-Carlton for your Nile-side nights.
- Morning: The Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square (if you want more, and you will) or the Citadel of Saladin with its panoramic city views.
- Afternoon: Khan el-Khalili bazaar — a 14th-century souk that's still trading. Brass lanterns, spices, textiles, and the finest haggling theater in the world. Have tea at Fishawi's café (open since 1773).
- Evening: Felucca sailboat ride on the Nile at sunset. Traditional wooden sailboats, no motor, just the wind and the city drifting past. ~$20 for an hour. One of the great bargains in travel.
Days 4–8: Nile Cruise (Luxor to Aswan)
Day 4: Fly to Luxor → Board Cruise
- Morning flight from Cairo to Luxor (1 hour, ~$80–$150 on EgyptAir domestic).
- Board your Nile cruise ship. Settle in.
- Afternoon: Karnak Temple Complex. This is the big one — the largest ancient religious complex ever built. The Hypostyle Hall alone (134 massive columns, each 70 feet tall) will stop you in your tracks.
- Evening: First dinner aboard. Watch Luxor's West Bank glow amber as the sun sets from the ship's deck.
Day 5: Luxor West Bank
- Morning: Valley of the Kings. Descend into painted tombs that are 3,300 years old — the colors still vivid, the artwork still extraordinary. Most cruise packages include entry to 3 tombs; Tutankhamun's tomb is extra (~$30) and worth every penny.
- Hatshepsut's Temple — the terraced mortuary temple of Egypt's most powerful female pharaoh, carved into the cliff face.
- Afternoon: Colossi of Memnon, Medinet Habu temple. Begin sailing south.
Day 6: Edfu
- Morning: Sail to Edfu.
- Visit the Temple of Horus at Edfu — the best-preserved temple in Egypt, with walls covered in hieroglyphic inscriptions that tell the story of Horus's battle with Set.
- Afternoon: Sailing. This is intentional downtime — the Nile's palm-fringed banks slide past, fishermen cast nets from wooden boats, water buffalo drink at the shore. Sit on deck with a cold drink and watch five thousand years of continuity float by.
Day 7: Kom Ombo & Aswan
- Morning: Temple of Kom Ombo — uniquely dedicated to two gods (Sobek the crocodile god and Horus the falcon god). The on-site Crocodile Museum displays mummified crocodiles. (Egypt: always surprising.)
- Afternoon: Arrive in Aswan. Visit the Nubian Village by motorboat — colorful painted houses, friendly residents, and an entirely different cultural feel from Cairo.
- Evening: Dinner on deck in Aswan. The Nile is at its most beautiful here — the river narrows, the granite islands emerge, and the desert begins.
Day 8: Aswan
- Morning: Philae Temple — relocated stone by stone to Agilkia Island after the Aswan Dam flooded its original location. Reached by motorboat, it's magical.
- Optional: Abu Simbel day trip (3-hour drive or 45-minute flight each way). The four colossal statues of Ramesses II, carved into a cliff face, are among the most extraordinary things human beings have ever made. Also relocated entirely — the UNESCO rescue project is a story in itself.
- Afternoon: High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk, or simply rest by the cruise ship pool.
Days 9–10: Return to Cairo & Depart
Day 9: Fly Aswan → Cairo
- Morning flight to Cairo (1.5 hours).
- Check in at your Cairo hotel (one final night at the Mena House or Cairo Marriott on points).
- Afternoon: Whatever you missed — revisit the Grand Egyptian Museum, explore Coptic Cairo, or simply sit at a café and process what you've experienced.
- Farewell dinner: try Abou El Sid (Egyptian fine dining) or Sequoia (Nile-view contemporary).
Day 10: Depart Cairo
- Transfer to Cairo International Airport. Depart.
- Spend the flight home calculating how many points you saved — and how soon you can come back.
Safety & Health Tips for Travelers 55+
Egypt is a safe and well-traveled destination for tourists, but it's different from Western Europe, and a little preparation goes a long way.
Safety
- Tourist areas are heavily secured. The pyramids, museums, Nile cruise routes, and Luxor/Aswan temples have visible security and tourist police. Egypt's tourism sector is vital to its economy, and the government invests significantly in protecting visitors.
- Use your hotel for transportation. Arrange airport transfers, taxis, and day trips through your hotel or cruise ship. This avoids fare disputes and ensures vetted drivers.
- Guided tours are recommended for first-time visitors. A good Egyptologist guide transforms every temple visit and handles logistics, tipping, and local navigation. Your cruise will provide guides for included excursions.
- Common sense applies: Keep valuables in your room safe, carry photocopies of your passport (leave the original at the hotel), and avoid unlit areas at night in any city. Standard travel precautions — nothing Egypt-specific.
- Haggling is expected in bazaars and with independent vendors. It's not confrontational — it's cultural. Start at 40–50% of the asking price and negotiate from there. If you don't enjoy it, your guide can help.
Health
- Heat is the primary health concern. October through April is the best season (70s–80s°F). Summer (June–August) can exceed 110°F. Even in cooler months, the sun at the pyramids and temple sites is intense.
- Drink 3–4 liters of water daily (more than you think you need).
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen (SPF 50+), and sunglasses.
- Schedule outdoor sightseeing for early morning and late afternoon.
- Rest during midday — the Egyptians do, and they've had millennia to figure this out.
- Stomach issues: Drink only bottled water (widely available, very cheap). Avoid raw salads and unpeeled fruit from street vendors. Hotel and cruise ship food is safe. Pack Imodium and oral rehydration salts just in case.
- Medications: Bring all prescriptions in original packaging with a doctor's letter. Egyptian pharmacies are well-stocked with common medications, but bring what you rely on.
- Travel insurance is non-negotiable. Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation — the nearest Western-standard hospital may require transfer. See our Travel Insurance Guide for recommendations specific to travelers over 55.
- Vaccinations: No vaccines are required for Egypt (from the US), but consult your doctor about Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and ensuring your routine vaccinations are current. The CDC's Egypt page has current recommendations.
Mobility Considerations
- Pyramids: Uneven ground, sand, and some steep passages inside pyramids. The exterior viewing is accessible; entering the pyramids involves crouching through narrow passages (optional — the outside is the impressive part).
- Temples: Most temple complexes are on flat ground but involve walking on ancient stone surfaces. Wear supportive, closed-toe shoes.
- Nile cruises: Ships have elevators, handrails, and air-conditioned lounges. The cruise itself is the most comfortable way to see Upper Egypt — no long bus rides between sites.
- Valley of the Kings: Some tombs involve steep staircases. The main path through the valley is paved. Not all tombs are accessible — ask your guide to recommend those with easier access.
What It Costs: The Points Math
Let's tally up a 10-day Egypt trip for two people:
Flight Costs (Business Class for Two)
| Cash | Points | |
|---|---|---|
| EgyptAir business class, round trip × 2 | $6,000–$12,000 | 180,000–260,000 Aeroplan (+ ~$200 taxes) |
Hotel Costs (5 Points Nights for Two)
| Hotel | Nights | Cash | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marriott Mena House, Cairo | 2 | $500–$1,000 | 80,000–120,000 Bonvoy |
| Cairo Marriott Hotel | 1 | $150–$300 | 30,000–45,000 Bonvoy |
| Hilton Luxor (post-cruise) | 1 | $100–$250 | 30,000–50,000 Hilton |
| Cairo hotel (final night) | 1 | $150–$300 | 30,000–45,000 Bonvoy |
Total Comparison
| Category | Cash Price | With Points | You Save |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flights | $6,000–$12,000 | ~$200 taxes + Aeroplan points | $5,800–$11,800 |
| Hotels (points nights) | $900–$1,850 | Bonvoy + Hilton points | $900–$1,850 |
| Nile cruise (4–5 nights, two people) | $3,000–$10,000 | $3,000–$10,000 (cash) | $0 |
| Domestic flights (Cairo–Luxor, Aswan–Cairo) | $300–$500 | $300–$500 (cash) | $0 |
| Food, guides, activities | $1,000–$2,000 | $1,000–$2,000 (cash) | $0 |
| Total | $11,200–$26,350 | $4,500–$12,700 + points | $6,700–$13,650 |
Egypt on points doesn't just save money — it makes a once-in-a-lifetime trip feel achievable. Business class flights, a pyramid-view hotel, and a Nile cruise — for roughly what you'd pay for economy flights and a mid-range hotel if you booked everything in cash.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Egypt?
October through April is ideal — warm but manageable temperatures (70s–80s°F), clear skies, and peak touring season. November and February are our sweet spots: fewer crowds than December/January holiday season, pleasant temperatures, and lower hotel rates. Avoid June through August unless you genuinely enjoy extreme heat.
Is Egypt safe for older travelers?
Yes. Egypt's tourist infrastructure is mature and well-secured. Millions of visitors over 55 travel Egypt annually — it's one of the most popular bucket-list destinations for retirees worldwide. Stick with reputable tour operators, cruise lines, and hotel-arranged transportation, and you'll feel safe throughout.
Do I need a visa for Egypt?
US citizens need a visa, but it's easy: you can purchase a tourist e-visa online before your trip ($25, single entry) at visa2egypt.gov.eg. You can also buy a visa-on-arrival at Cairo Airport ($25 cash). We recommend the e-visa to skip the airport queue.
Should I book a Nile cruise independently or through a tour company?
For first-timers over 55, we recommend a packaged cruise (Viking, AmaWaterways, Uniworld, or Oberoi) that includes guided excursions, meals, and logistics. The peace of mind is worth the premium. Independent booking can save money but requires more planning and tolerance for improvisation.
How physically demanding is this trip?
Moderate. The Nile cruise handles most of the transportation between sites. Temple visits involve walking on uneven stone surfaces but are generally flat. The heat is the main challenge — pace yourself, hydrate aggressively, and don't skip the midday rest. If you can walk comfortably for 60–90 minutes, you can do this trip.
Can I use points for the Nile cruise itself?
Not directly — cruise lines have their own pricing. However, you can use Capital One miles or Chase Ultimate Rewards through their travel portals to offset some cruise costs at 1–1.5¢ per point. The better strategy: use points for flights and hotels (where the per-point value is highest) and pay cash for the cruise.
The Bottom Line
Egypt is not a trip you take. It's a trip that takes you — back through time, across the desert, down the Nile, and into a civilization that built things so extraordinary we still can't fully explain how they did it.
It's also more accessible than you think. EgyptAir's Star Alliance membership opens the door to business class on points. Marriott's Mena House lets you wake up to the pyramids for Bonvoy points you earned buying groceries. And Egypt itself — the food, the guides, the entrance fees — is remarkably affordable once you're there.
Take our Travel Score Quiz to see where you stand. If you have Chase Ultimate Rewards or Marriott Bonvoy points, you may be one transfer away from the trip of a lifetime.
The pyramids have waited 4,500 years. They can wait a few more months while you sort out your points strategy.
But don't wait too long. The Nile isn't getting any younger. (Actually, it is — it floods and renews itself every year. But you get the point.)
Planning an Egypt trip on points? Join our WanderWise Facebook Group where travelers 55+ share Nile cruise reviews, guide recommendations, and tips for making the most of every point.