When you first traveled to Egypt did you use a tour guide?

I'm going to Cairo, Egypt for the first time; however, do I really need a tour guide? I definately know they help, it's just that I like to have the freedom to go and come as I please...especially when I see the pyramids because I definately want to take my time there and just savor the moment : ) Has anyone traveled to Egypt and got along just fine without a tour guide?

I suggest you go to fodors.com and check out the "talk" section -Africa and the Middle East. You'll find abundant discussions and trip reports on Egypt.

honestly i believe that just ppl who are really prepared with their knowledge can visit Egyptian sites without a guide. you probably like freedom in visiting cause of the organization, but when we talk about country like Egypt, where history is very complex than it is really better to take a guide. you don't have to use a company, hire a private guide and your freedom will be saved while your information full.

I agree with Rokaya on this. As an ex tourist i loved traveling on my own, but a tour guide can bring something to life & i would have missed so much. There is also the safety aspect, they can stear you away from any problem areas, not that there is any problem with egypt, i never felt safer.
Book the tour guide for when you want them, & not for when you dont, be free & enjoy the best of both worlds.
Have a lovely time.

if it is your first time, then you will need a tour guide.
even if you speak Arabic.

Egyptians get lost in their own country, there are all kinds of people in Egypt. southern [ e.g Aswan] Egypt is so different than northern Egypt [e.g Alexandria]


so i suggest that you get a tour guide, and then come and visit us next time by yourself =]

dear friend in egypt you have no need for any guide all peoples here love to help visitors all police men spreaded every where will help you even taxi drivers can help you and show you every thing you want to see

yes , my uncle :D

Egyptology guide is really important for the first time you going to visit the ancient historical sight seeing, i can understand the point of freedom which you looking for but this can work with a guide cause you can ask him after the explanation which you will get from him/her to give you free time around and not need to be rushy, if you have travel agent you can talk to them about that. if you would like any more info, you can contact back at any time.