Egypt: The Ultimate Travel Guide
Egypt, the cradle of civilization and a crossroads between continents, offers one of the world's most fascinating travel experiences. From the awe-inspiring pyramids to the vibrant coral reefs of the Red Sea, Egypt presents an unparalleled mix of ancient wonders, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage.
Why Visit Egypt?
Egypt is a destination like no other, where you can:
- Walk among the last surviving wonders of the ancient world
- Cruise the timeless Nile River
- Explore vibrant Islamic, Coptic, and Pharaonic history
- Dive in some of the world's best coral reefs
- Experience warm Egyptian hospitality
- Taste unique and flavorful cuisine
Did you know? Egypt receives about 13 million tourists annually, making it one of Africa's top tourist destinations. The Great Pyramid of Giza was the tallest man-made structure in the world for over 3,800 years!
Best Time to Visit
Egypt's climate varies significantly between regions:
| Season | Months | Weather | Travel Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| High Season | October-April | Mild temperatures (20-30°C) | Best time to visit but most crowded |
| Shoulder Season | May, September | Warm (30-35°C) | Good balance of weather and crowds |
| Low Season | June-August | Very hot (35-45°C) | Cheaper but extremely hot, especially in Luxor/Aswan |
Pro Tip: For diving enthusiasts, water temperatures in the Red Sea are perfect year-round, though visibility is best April-May and September-October.
Top Destinations in Egypt
Cairo & Giza
The bustling capital and its neighboring Giza plateau are home to Egypt's most iconic sights:
- Giza Pyramid Complex: The Great Pyramid, Sphinx, and surrounding tombs
- Egyptian Museum: Houses the world's largest collection of Pharaonic antiquities
- Islamic Cairo: Historic mosques and medieval architecture
- Coptic Cairo: Ancient Christian sites including the Hanging Church
- Khan el-Khalili: Famous bazaar dating back to 1382
Luxor
Often called the world's greatest open-air museum:
- Karnak Temple: Largest ancient religious site in the world
- Luxor Temple: Beautifully illuminated at night
- Valley of the Kings: Burial place of Tutankhamun and other pharaohs
- Valley of the Queens: Stunning tomb of Nefertari
- Hot Air Balloon Rides: Spectacular sunrise views
Aswan
A more relaxed Nile city with Nubian culture:
- Philae Temple: Island temple dedicated to Isis
- Abu Simbel: Magnificent temples relocated to save them from Lake Nasser
- Nubian Villages: Colorful houses and cultural experiences
- Elephantine Island: Ancient ruins and peaceful walks
Alexandria
Egypt's Mediterranean jewel with Greco-Roman heritage:
- Bibliotheca Alexandrina: Modern reincarnation of the ancient library
- Qaitbay Citadel: 15th-century fortress on the site of the Lighthouse
- Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa: Blend of Egyptian and Greco-Roman styles
- Montaza Palace: Beautiful gardens by the sea
Red Sea Resorts
World-class diving and beach relaxation:
- Sharm el-Sheikh: Luxury resorts and access to Ras Mohammed National Park
- Hurghada: Popular for diving and water sports
- Dahab: Bohemian vibe with excellent shore diving
- Marsa Alam: Less developed with pristine reefs
Western Desert Oases
For those seeking adventure off the beaten path:
- Siwa Oasis: Unique Berber culture and ancient oracle temple
- Bahariya Oasis: Gateway to the Black and White Deserts
- Farafra: Surreal white desert landscapes
- Dakhla Oasis: Traditional mud-brick villages
Cultural Experiences
Nile Cruises
A journey along the Nile is the quintessential Egyptian experience. Options range from luxury vessels to traditional dahabiyas (sailboats). Typical itineraries:
- Luxor to Aswan (4-7 days): Most popular route
- Cairo to Luxor (10-14 days): Less common but more comprehensive
Traditional Food to Try
- Koshari: Egypt's national dish - mix of pasta, rice, lentils, and crispy onions
- Ful Medames: Slow-cooked fava beans, typically eaten for breakfast
- Ta'meya (Egyptian falafel): Made with fava beans instead of chickpeas
- Molokhia: Jute leaf soup served with rice or bread
- Umm Ali: Delicious bread pudding dessert
Shopping & Souvenirs
Egypt offers wonderful shopping opportunities:
- Papyrus: Look for hand-painted genuine papyrus, not banana leaf imitations
- Perfume oils: Egypt has a long tradition of perfume making
- Copper & brassware: Traditional lanterns and tableware
- Spices: Excellent quality at Khan el-Khalili
- Silver jewelry: Particularly in the Khan el-Khalili market
Bargaining Tip: Haggling is expected in markets. Start by offering about half the asking price and negotiate from there, always with a smile!
Practical Information
Visa Requirements
Most nationalities can obtain:
- Visa on arrival (USD $25, valid for 30 days)
- E-visa available online before travel
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months
Currency
- Egyptian Pound (EGP)
- ATMs widely available
- Credit cards accepted in hotels and larger establishments
- Always carry small bills for tips and small purchases
Language
- Arabic is the official language
- English widely understood in tourist areas
- Learning a few Arabic phrases is appreciated:
- Hello: Salam aleikum
- Thank you: Shukran
- How much?: Bikam?
- No problem: Mafish mushkila
Transportation
- Domestic flights: Efficient between Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, Sharm
- Trains: Comfortable overnight sleeper trains between Cairo-Luxor-Aswan
- Buses: Good network between major cities (GoBus recommended)
- Taxis: Use ride-hailing apps (Careem, Uber) in Cairo for best prices
- Metro: Cairo has an efficient and cheap metro system
Health & Safety
- Drink bottled water only
- Standard vaccinations recommended
- Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines advisable
- Generally safe for tourists, but beware of scams and pickpockets in crowded areas
- Dress modestly, especially outside tourist resorts
Cultural Note: Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country. While beach resorts are liberal, in cities and rural areas, modest dress (covering shoulders and knees) is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites.
Sample Itineraries
Classic Egypt (7-10 days)
- Cairo (3 days): Pyramids, Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo
- Overnight train to Luxor
- Luxor (3 days): East and West Bank sights
- Nile Cruise to Aswan (4 days)
- Aswan (2 days): Philae Temple, Abu Simbel day trip
- Fly back to Cairo
Egypt Extended (14 days)
- Cairo (3 days)
- Alexandria (2 days)
- Overnight train to Luxor
- Luxor (3 days)
- Nile Cruise to Aswan (4 days)
- Aswan (2 days)
- Fly to Abu Simbel (1 day)
- Fly to Cairo (1 day)
Beach & History Combo (10 days)
- Cairo (2 days)
- Fly to Luxor (2 days)
- Fly to Hurghada or Sharm el-Sheikh (5 days)
- Back to Cairo (1 day)
Final Travel Tips
- Photography: Many sites charge extra for cameras (sometimes more than entrance fees)
- Ramadan: Visiting during Ramadan offers unique cultural experiences but some services may be limited during daylight hours
- Guides: Licensed guides greatly enhance the experience at archaeological sites
- Tipping (Baksheesh): Expected for many services - keep small bills handy
- Patience: Egyptian bureaucracy and services can move slowly - build flexibility into your schedule
Egypt is a country that stays with you long after you leave. The warmth of its people, the grandeur of its monuments, and the timeless flow of the Nile create memories that last a lifetime. With proper planning and an open mind, your Egyptian adventure will be nothing short of extraordinary.
Safe travels and enjoy the magic of Egypt!