Overview

Egypt is a country where ancient wonders meet vibrant modern life. From the towering pyramids of Giza and the temples of Luxor to the Red Sea’s coral reefs and Cairo’s bustling streets, Egypt offers rich culture, deep history, and natural beauty for travelers of all kinds.

Whether you're a history buff, beachgoer, or desert adventurer, Egypt has something to enchant you. Use this Egypt travel guide to start planning your unforgettable journey!

Quick Facts

• Language: Arabic (English widely spoken in tourist areas)

• Religion: Predominantly Islam

• Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP)

• Airport: Cairo International Airport (CAI), Luxor (LXR), Hurghada (HRG), Sharm El Sheikh (SSH)

• Visa: eVisa available for many countries; VOA also possible

• Climate: Hot desert climate; peak travel season Oct–April

• Power Plugs: Type C / F

• Apps: Careem (ride share), Google Maps, XE Currency

Where Is Egypt?

Egypt is located in North Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea and Red Sea. It connects Africa and the Middle East via the Sinai Peninsula. Its neighbors include Libya, Sudan, and Israel.

Flights

Major airports are found in Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and Sharm El Sheikh.
Direct international flights arrive from Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. For travelers from the US, Canada, or Asia, connections through hubs like Istanbul, Doha, or Dubai are common.

Best Time to Visit

• October to April (Winter): Best for sightseeing, with pleasant temps.

• May to September (Summer): Very hot, especially in southern Egypt. Good for Red Sea resorts.

Safety

Egypt is generally safe in tourist zones like Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and the Red Sea resorts. Avoid border zones and always check government travel advisories. Use registered guides and transport, and stay alert in crowds.

Budget

• Budget travel: $20–50/day (hostels, street food, public transit)

• Mid-range: $60–150/day (decent hotels, domestic flights, tours)

• Luxury: $200+/day (5-star resorts, Nile cruises, private guides)

Things To Do

✨ Ancient Wonders

• Giza Pyramids & Sphinx (Cairo): The last surviving wonder of the ancient world.

• Luxor Temple & Karnak: Monumental architecture along the Nile.

• Valley of the Kings: Tombs of the pharaohs, including King Tut.

• Abu Simbel: Rock temples built by Ramses II, near the Sudanese border.

🌴 Nature & Beaches

• Hurghada & Sharm El Sheikh: Red Sea resorts with diving, snorkeling, and sun.

• Siwa Oasis: Remote desert escape with palm groves and salt lakes.

• White Desert: Surreal chalk rock formations for camping and adventure.

🕌 Culture & Cities

• Cairo: Explore Islamic Cairo, the Egyptian Museum, and local souks.

• Aswan: Gateway to Nubian culture and felucca sailing.

• Alexandria: A Mediterranean city with Roman ruins and a coastal vibe.

What to Eat

• Koshari: Spiced lentil-pasta-rice dish with tomato sauce.

• Ful Medames: Slow-cooked fava beans with lemon and garlic.

• Shawarma & Falafel: Street food staples.

• Fresh Juices: Sugarcane, hibiscus, mango, and more.

Where to Stay

• Budget: Dahab Hostel (Cairo), Bob Marley Hostel (Luxor)

• Mid-range: Steigenberger Nile Palace (Luxor), Hilton Hurghada

• Luxury: Four Seasons Nile Plaza (Cairo), Old Cataract Hotel (Aswan)

Getting Around

• Domestic Flights: Great for long distances (e.g., Cairo to Aswan).

• Trains: Cairo–Luxor–Aswan sleeper trains available.

• Uber & Careem: Useful in Cairo.

• Taxis & Guides: Negotiate fares ahead of time.

Suggested Itinerary (10 Days)

1. Cairo (3 days): Pyramids, Museum, Islamic Cairo

2. Aswan (2 days): Philae Temple, Nubian Village

3. Abu Simbel (day trip)

4. Nile Cruise (3 nights): Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor temples

5. Luxor (1 day): Valley of the Kings

6. Optional: Extend to Red Sea (Hurghada or Sharm)

Final Tips

• Always carry small change for tips and public toilets.

• Dress modestly, especially at religious sites.

• Drink bottled water only.

• Bring sunscreen, hat, and good walking shoes.