In 2023 I went to Egypt to research Hunt for the Golden Scarab – my time-travelling adventure to the time of Tutankhamun. It was one of the most incredible experiences of my life and I wished that I had brought my children to share it.
I’m planning another trip to Egypt. This time the kids are coming. I can’t wait to see the look on my youngest son’s face when he sees the pyramids, and the Egyptian Museum in Cairo opens this year, displaying the treasure Howard Carter discovered in Tutankhamun’s tomb.
Here are some tips if your family fancies an Egyptian holiday for the history books.
Use a trusted travel agent to book your trip. There are companies that specialise in looking after families (for example Families Worldwide). Your flight, visa, transport, accommodation, excursions, activities and especially insurance should all be planned before you leave.
The tour operator will take care of your entry tickets to museums, temples and anything relating to your activities. The hot weather means most excursions will take place in the morning or the evening, which leaves you the afternoon to swim in the pool and relax.
Safety was one of my concerns, but I felt safe in Egypt. The have an impressively efficient and visible police force. The people are welcoming and friendly. Although, it is important to understand that Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country. On excursions it is respectful for adults to cover shoulders, knees, and in religious places, the head. I wore a long-sleeved maxi dress and head scarf and wasn’t troubled. Members of our group who wore less were occasionally harassed, however our guide made sure they were safe. In the hotel, or on the cruise boat, you may where whatever you want.
Money and tipping can be confusing. The wages in Egypt are low and tipping is essential. I tried to tip with Egyptian pounds, but dollars and euros are what people want. They will refuse their own currency. Take a roll of dollar bills or a bag of euros purely for tipping. The toilets cost money and there’s always an attendant that needs a tip.
Opportunities for souvenir shopping will be included by your tour operator. I was taken to a perfume merchants, glass blower, stone mason, and hieroglyphic artisans where I had the opportunity to make purchases without dealing with street traders. I wouldn’t recommend browsing market stalls with children. Traders can be passionately insistent you buy something you don’t want, which may frighten little ones. Your guide will step in if this happens. A firm ‘no’ usually works.
The best time to visit Egypt is in between December and April when it’s not too hot. The Egyptian sun is intense. You’ll need plenty of bottled water (do not drink the tap water), sun hats, and sunscreen.
Talking of screens, Wifi is rare and expensive. Download movies or tv shows onto devices before you leave. Pack an activity book (National Geographic Kids do great ones) to get the kids excited about the places they’re going to visit. I’d also pack a first aid kit and snacks.
Your family will love riding camels around the pyramids, sailing down the Nile on a cruise ship with a swimming pool, the museum of mummified crocodiles, the hot air balloon ride to the Valley of the Kings, where Tutankhamun’s mummy is laid out in his tomb. With a little planning, Egypt’s cultural treasures and warm hospitality make for an unforgettable family holiday.
About the expert
M.G. Leonard is a bestselling, multi award-winning author of the Beetle Boy, Adventures on Trains, and The Twitchers series. Leonard’s books have been translated into more than forty languages and have sold more than three quarters of a million copies worldwide.
Her latest book, Hunt for the Golden Scarab is a spectacular new fast-paced mystery adventure and the first book in the Time Keys series. Leonard toured Egypt with an Egyptologist to research Hunt for the Golden Scarab, immersing herself in the rich history and mythology of the region. Her journey included a visit to the iconic Tomb of Tutankhamun, adding depth and authenticity to the story’s ancient setting. Read our review of the book here.
Hunt for the Golden Scarab by M.G. Leonard with illustrations by Manuel Šumberac is available now priced at £7.99, published by Macmillan Children’s Books.
