Solo Trip to Egypt – Itinerary & Tips?

Hey fellow travelers!

I’m heading to Egypt soon and wanted to share my itinerary to see if anyone has recommendations—especially for food, local guides, and must-visit hidden gems. My main goals are to see the iconic sites, eat amazing food, and really immerse myself in the experience.

Itinerary:

Aswan (2 days)

Day 1: Visit Abu Simbel early in the morning and explore Aswan. I’d love recommendations for where to eat and any cool local experiences.

Day 2: I need to find a reliable tour guide to take me from Aswan to Edfu and Kom Ombo, with the day ending in Luxor. Any guide suggestions?

Luxor (2 days)

Day 3: Exploring the city—Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, and Luxor Temple. Any hidden gems or best times to visit?

Day 4: I want to visit Coptic monasteries, but I’m not sure of the best way to do it. Would it be better to hire a guide? If so, where can I find a reliable one? Any specific monasteries that are a must-see?

Cairo (5 days)

Days 5-9:

Pyramids of Giza & Saqqara

Egyptian Museum (or Grand Egyptian Museum if it's open)

Khan El Khalili Market

A day trip to Alexandria – best way to get there? Any must-visit spots?

Open to any additional experiences that help me connect with the culture and history.

Other Things I Need Help With:

Food! I love trying local dishes—where should I eat in each city?

Hidden gems? Anything off the beaten path that I should check out?

Safety tips? Anything I should be aware of as a solo traveler?

Local experiences—best way to meet people and get a feel for everyday life?

Would love to hear from anyone who’s been! Thanks in advance.