For local transportation: - Cairo: Uber, Careem, and InDrive all work, but Uber drivers often call requesting higher prices. InDrive works like magic for negotiating fares. - Aswan and Luxor: InDrive only, cash payment required. - Tuk-tuks: Always haggle for prices before getting in.

The Dahabiya Experience

The dahabiya cruise—a small sailing boat accommodating max 10 passengers—was the trip's most expensive element but highly worthwhile. With only 5 passengers plus crew, it offered an intimate experience with three daily meals and a knowledgeable guide.

One awkward moment: the final-day tip ceremony. The "recommended tip" seemed excessive given the overall price, raising questions about whether crew members receive salaries beyond gratuities. They paid what they deemed fair, which was accepted without issue.

Museums Worth Visiting

Both the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) and National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) are "absolutely wonderful." GEM tickets require pre-booking, and both museums feature excellent descriptions, making guides unnecessary. All historical attraction tickets use card payment only (the "visa option").

Hawkers, Hassle, and Safety

Contrary to Egypt's reputation for aggressive vendors, the experience "was so much better than we expected." Most people understood a polite "no, thank you." The key: don't slow down at vendor booths. Once you stop and engage, "they just won't let you go."

For hassle-free souvenir shopping, wait until Cairo and visit shops with fixed prices in areas like Zamalek or Heliopolis.

The travelers walked in Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan after dark without issues. Their only discomforts: stray dogs and cats (dogs are chill, cats want food) and kids setting off loud Ramadan celebration crackers.

"I don't know if I would go out at night a lot if I were solo," they admitted. "During the day – certainly. During the night – probably not."

Hidden Gems

Two highlights stood out:

1. Garbage City Tour: "A HIGHLIGHT of our trip!" A local guide showed them inside homes and the sorting/manufacturing process, followed by church visits and climbing a pigeon tower for panoramic views.

2. White/Black Deserts: A two-day tour from Cairo (5-6 hour drive to Bahariya). While not mind-blowing scenery-wise, the barbecue, food, and stargazing made it "very fun."

Money-Saving Tips

- Use National Egypt Bank or Bank Misr ATMs; avoid Euronet (extremely high rates) - Book drivers on Viator instead of full guided tours—most guides only have "surface-level knowledge" anyway - The Bent Pyramid at Dahshur is "the most challenging one in terms of climbing inside it" but worth the effort - Skip overpriced "alabaster shops" in Luxor unless you love aggressive haggling

The report proves that Egypt—often assumed to require expensive tours due to logistics and hassle—is entirely manageable independently. With research, patience, and the right apps, travelers can experience bucket-list sites while saving thousands of dollars.