Where to buy tours in Egypt without going through a hotel or tour operator?

An August 29 report said tours were offered on the hotel's beach at the same price as at the tour shop opposite the hotel. The hotel was not named.

Before booking, find out which tour operator actually runs the excursion and check the price directly on that operator's own website before deciding.

Independent tour agencies in resort areas offer the same excursions as hotel reps but at noticeably lower prices. Worth seeking them out rather than booking through your accommodation.

You can browse tour options online before arrival and choose ones that allow payment on-site — this lets you compare prices in advance without committing upfront.

Besides hotel tour reps, excursions are sold by street agencies and private guides found in the tourist districts of Sharm el-Sheikh, Hurghada, and Luxor.