Is it cheaper to book excursions in Hurghada through your tour operator or directly on the beach?

A combo trip — one week Nile river cruise visiting major sites, then beach relaxation — is recommended as the best way to see Egypt's highlights, though it costs more than a beach-only holiday.

A similar combo format (a week of bus touring key sights plus 10 days at the beach) in another country was rated as one of the best trips ever, despite costing more than a standard beach holiday.

Travelers advise against the standard city tour sold by Anex Tour: it only includes 2 mosques, just 30 minutes at Marina promenade, and then 30-50 minutes at each of several expensive souvenir shops.

Paying through the tour guide for 4 similar excursions cost $370, while the same tours on the beach would have cost about $280, with another $20-40 saved through bargaining.

Tour operator guides often discourage buying excursions elsewhere, claiming other sellers will scam you — leading travelers to overpay by trusting only the guide.

During excursions, guides often suggest a pharmacy stop — one group declined it and went straight back to their hotels instead.