Princely Accommodations in Egypt on a Pauper’s Budget

Egypt is known for the pyramids and the Sphinx, but it also has a reputation for being an affordable African destination. Deals can be had on the flights, but what we’re really celebrating are the unsung heroes of the Egyptian travel experience: the affordable hotels, bed & breakfasts, and specialty accommodations that make visitors feel right at home. Here are our top 5 picks outside of Cairo that are sure to deliver true value for the cost. These places will leave even the budgeting backpacker feeling like a true King or Queen.

Sinai Old Spices B&B in Sharm El Sheikh: It’s amazing how much you can get for $45 per night. The host Desy makes sure that all guests feel the true meaning of the Egyptian greeting Salaam, meaning peace. This themed guesthouse is part of the Bedouin Village of Roissat, and it is situated at the base of a beautiful mountain range. The air-conditioned rooms overlook the city and have TVs, private bathrooms, a kitchenette, and a balcony.  There is free Wi-Fi in public areas, as well as a garden and a terrace. Homemade breakfast and dinner are served in the pool side restaurant. If authenticity, hospitality, and simplicity are what brings you to Egypt, Sinai Old Spices will not disappoint. 

Golden Apartments El Gouna: Four hours’ drive from Luxor and seven hours’ drive from Cairo, Hurghada is a fishing village that overlooks the Red Sea. It is a haven for those who love water sports, windsurfing, fishing, and diving. Folks who make it to Hurghada tend to be DIYers, who want nothing to do with resorts. Good thing, because the best price for value is at these apartment hotels that offer the best of both worlds for less than $60 per night. Uber and Careem taxi apps make getting around the New Marina and Giftun Island a breeze. Above and beyond standard amenities, these beautiful apartments also have a washing machine, which is ideal for bathing suit refreshes after splashes in Sliders Aqua Park in El Gouna.

6X6m double Height Dome AirBnB: Alexandria is a must-see for any visitor to the land of Isis and Osiris. However, to make a special occasion of a tourist fave, ditch the high-rise franchise hotels and spend the same amount at this unique dome in Zawya Abd El-Qader. There’s no Wifi, but there is an indoor fireplace and a pool. At $120 per night for 3 guests, this farm stay is best for romantic couples seeking to rekindle a romance or to spark a flame. And, if you already have a muse, these picturesque gardens and artistic decor leave an inspiring mark on creative travelers.

Aragheed Nubian Guest House: The land of Nubia is not a fictional site for fairy tales and Broadway plays. It truly exists. A 3-hour flight from Cairo, Aswan offers the best of Nubian culture today. Known for its signature dam, this market city has a museum that highlights Nubian traditions and is known for spectacular views of the Westbank of the Nile. A budget twin room with a shared bathroom costs just $40 per night, with breakfast included. What has earned this budget B&B its exceptional customer reviews? Sand covered rooftops, easy access to the Noble tombs, and the owner’s attention to detail. Bassam is a class act, who also has a great singing voice. He leaves a positive impression on all his guests, proving that Nubian hospitality is second to none.

Great Pyramid Inn: It is just so hard to decide the best among Giza’s guest houses. There are lots of choices that have awe-inspiring views of the pyramids, but the Great Pyramid Inn boasts $50 rooms and 501 raving reviews. Tripadvisor rates it #1 among 44 other competing lodges, inns, and bed & breakfasts. Guests really value their stay because customer service is flawless and the facilities are modern. Moreover, visitors become repeat guests because there are just so many free perks. Complimentary breakfast and airport pick-ups are nice, but the free sound and light show from the terrace restaurant is unparalleled. The common thread among all the 5 star ratings is the sentiment that nights spent at the feet of the Pharaohs is simply priceless.