Egypt

Egypt: general info for travelers

Egypt is a country located on the northeastern corner of Africa, with a small portion of its land situated in Asia, across the Suez Canal. It is the third most populous country in Africa with a population of more than 100 million people, most of whom live along the fertile Nile River Valley. Egypt is known for its rich history dating back to the ancient times when it was one of the world’s most advanced civilizations. Some of the famous landmarks in Egypt include the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, the Luxor Temple, and the Valley of the Kings. The official language of the country is Arabic, and Islam is the predominant religion, with a significant Christian minority. Egypt is also a popular tourist destination due to its fascinating history, stunning landscapes, and vast cultural diversity.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Egypt, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Egypt: places to visit

Certainly! Here are six must-visit destinations in Egypt: 1. The Pyramids of Giza - These ancient monuments are the most iconic landmarks of Egypt and a must-see for any traveller visiting this country. They were built over 4,500 years ago and were the tallest structures in the world for thousands of years. The Great Pyramid of Giza is the largest of them all, standing at 147 meters tall.
2. The Sphinx - Adjacent to the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx is another remarkable sight to behold. This statue has the head of a human and the body of a lion, and it is believed to have been built during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre.
3. Luxor - Located on the east bank of the Nile River, Luxor is often referred to as the world's greatest open-air museum. It has some of the most impressive ancient landmarks in Egypt, including the Karnak Temple, the Colossi of Memnon, and the Valley of the Kings.
4. Aswan - This ancient city is situated on the banks of the Nile River, and it is known for its beautiful scenery and rich history. One of the main attractions here is the Philae Temple, an ancient temple complex that was dedicated to the goddess Isis.
5. Alexandria - Situated on the Mediterranean Sea, Alexandria has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its stunning beaches, museums, and landmarks. A few must-see places include the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Pompey's Pillar, and the Alexandria National Museum.
6. Cairo - The capital city of Egypt is a bustling metropolis that has something for everyone. While it might not have the same historical appeal as some of the other destinations on this list, it is still home to some incredible landmarks, like the Khan el-Khalili market, the Al Azhar Mosque, and the Cairo Tower.
There is more to see and do in Egypt: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Egypt: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Egypt, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Egypt has a hot and dry desert climate with very little rainfall. The daytime temperatures can range from around 35-45°C in summer (June-August) to around 20-25°C in winter (December-February). The best time to visit Egypt for sightseeing and outdoor activities is during the cooler months of October to April. This time of year offers pleasant daytime temperatures, cooler evenings, and lower humidity. The peak tourist season in Egypt is from December to February when the weather is mild and dry. However, it's worth noting that this is also the busiest time of the year for tourism, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Egypt: activities and what to do

Egypt offers a wide range of activities and sports to do on holiday, some of which include: 1. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Egypt has some of the best diving sites in the world. The Red Sea, particularly the areas around Hurghada and Sharm-el-Sheikh, has some stunning coral reefs and marine life.
2. Camel Ride: You can take a camel ride into the desert and explore ancient ruins, as well as enjoy the beautiful scenery and breathtaking sunrise and sunset views.
3. Nile River Cruises: Take a leisurely cruise down the Nile River and explore the ancient sites such as the temples of Luxor and Karnak and the Valley of the Kings.
4. Hot Air Balloon Rides: Experience the beauty of Egypt’s landscapes on a hot air balloon ride. You’ll be able to see the pyramids and temples from high above.
5. Windsurfing and Kiteboarding: The Red Sea coast is perfect for windsurfing and kiteboarding, with its warm waters and constant wind.
6. Desert Safari: Take a jeep safari through the desert, enjoy a barbecue dinner, and watch a traditional Bedouin dance.
7. Golfing: Egypt has a number of world-class golf courses, including the Katameya Dunes Golf Course in Cairo and the Cascades Golf and Country Club in Soma Bay.
These are just a few of the many activities and sports that Egypt has to offer.

Egypt: few words on history and culture

Egypt is a country with a rich history dating back to ancient times. It is located in the northeast corner of Africa and is famous for its pyramids, pharaohs, and ancient civilization. The ancient Egyptians were known for their impressive building techniques, art, religion, and language.
One of the greatest achievements of ancient Egypt was the construction of the pyramids. These impressive structures were built as tombs for pharaohs and their consorts, and they stand as a testament to the power and skill of the ancient Egyptians.
Egyptian culture has been shaped by its long and complex history, with influences from the Greeks, the Romans, the Islamic empire, and many others. Music and dance play an important role in Egyptian culture, as does food. Egyptian cuisine is known for its use of spices and herbs, and is a delicious mix of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and North African flavors.
Today, modern Egypt is a vibrant and bustling country that is home to over 100 million people. Despite its struggles with political instability and economic challenges in recent years, Egypt remains an incredible destination for travelers interested in history, culture, and adventure.

Egypt: how to move around on holiday

There are several ways to reach and travel within Egypt, depending on your preferences and budget. 1. Plane: Cairo International Airport is Egypt's main airport and serves many airlines from all around the world. From here, you can fly to other domestic airports located in Luxor, Aswan, Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada. This is the quickest way to cover long distances within Egypt.
2. Train: Egypt has an extensive rail network with trains running between major cities. The overnight sleeper train from Cairo to Luxor and Aswan is popular amongst travellers. The train journey is comfortable and you can see some spectacular scenery.
3. Bus: Egypt has an extensive bus network that covers all major cities. However, bus travel can be slow and uncomfortable.
4. Taxi: Taxis are available in all major cities in Egypt. It is advisable to agree on a price before you start your journey.
5. Nile cruise: A Nile cruise is one of the most popular ways to see the iconic Egyptian sights. It's a unique way to travel and see the country. To hire a car to visit Egypt, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Egypt: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Egypt with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the main typical foods of Egypt and a brief description of each: 1. Koshari - a vegetarian dish made up of rice, macaroni, lentils, chickpeas, fried onions, and a spicy tomato sauce. 2. Ful medames - A popular Egyptian breakfast dish made from cooked and mashed fava beans mixed with spices, olive oil, and lemon juice.
3. Shawarma - A popular street food in Egypt, made from marinated meat, usually chicken or beef, which is placed onto a spit and slowly roasted until tender, and then served in a pita bread with vegetables and a variety of sauces.
4. Molokhia - A green soup-like dish made from jute leaves, cooked and then blended to a smooth consistency and served with rice or bread.
5. Taameya (Falafel) - fried balls or patties made from ground fava beans or chickpeas, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices.
6. Konafa - a popular Egyptian dessert made from phyllo pastry, cheese, and sugar syrup.
7. Basbusa - A sweet cake made of semolina, sugar, yogurt, baking powder, and coconut.
These are just a few examples of the delicious foods that you can typically find in Egypt.

Egypt: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Egypt can be an affordable destination for tourists, but it depends on your travel style and budget. Accommodation and food are generally inexpensive, but entry fees for attractions and tours can add up. If you plan to visit popular sites like the Pyramids of Giza or go on Nile River cruises, these can be relatively expensive. However, there are always ways to save money, such as traveling during the off-season or booking in advance. It is also essential to keep an eye on exchange rates and bargain with local vendors to get the best deals. Overall, Egypt offers excellent value for money for travelers.

Egypt: where to find accodation

There are a lot of options for accommodations in Egypt, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are a few popular options: 1. Hotels and Resorts: There are a lot of international hotel chains operating in major cities like Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor, and Aswan. These hotels offer a range of luxury options with all the amenities included.
2. Hostels and Guesthouses: If you're traveling on a budget, there are plenty of affordable hostels and guesthouses across Egypt, especially in touristy areas like Dahab, Sharm El Sheikh, and Hurghada.
3. Airbnb: You can also find a lot of great deals on short-term rentals through Airbnb. This is a good option if you're traveling with a group or want to stay in an apartment or house.
4. Nile Cruises: One of the most popular ways to see Egypt is by taking a Nile cruise. These floating hotels allow you to see all the major sites along the river while enjoying all the comforts of a luxury hotel.
No matter what your budget or preferences may be, you're sure to find a great place to stay while visiting Egypt.
You can check hotel prices in Egypt here:
Booking.com

Egypt: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the World Tourism Organization, Egypt received approximately 9.8 million international tourists in 2019. Of course, tourism has been greatly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and the number of tourists for 2020 and beyond may differ significantly.
In terms of crowded periods, Egypt tends to experience high tourist traffic during peak season, which is typically from December through to February, and during Easter and summer vacation periods. During these times, some popular sites such as the Pyramids of Giza and Luxor can become quite crowded. If you prefer less-crowded travel, it might be better to plan your trip for the shoulder seasons of March to May or September to November, when the weather is still pleasant but the tourist crowds are fewer.
Overall, Egypt is safe for tourists, but like any other country, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. In recent years, the country has taken steps to improve security measures to protect tourists. However, there are still places that should be avoided, particularly areas near the borders with Libya, Sudan, and Israel. Certain areas in Sinai, including the North Sinai and South Sinai Governorates, should also be avoided due to ongoing security concerns. It is always a good idea to check the current situation with your embassy or consulate before traveling to Egypt. Additionally, it is recommended to use caution when using public transportation and avoid traveling alone at night.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Egypt on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Egypt: events for tourists

There are several interesting events that tourists can participate in while visiting Egypt: 1. Egyptian Museum: This is a great place to learn about the history and ancient civilization of Egypt.
2. Pyramids and Sphinx: Visiting the iconic pyramids and the Sphinx at Giza is a must-do for any tourist in Egypt.
3. Nile River Cruise: A great way to see the country is by taking a Nile River Cruise where you can explore ancient temples and learn about Egypt's history.
4. Hot Air Balloon Ride: A thrilling experience where tourists can soar over the Valley of the Kings, Luxor and take in the stunning views of the Nile River.
5. Ramadan: The Islamic holy month is celebrated throughout Egypt with various events and festivities that provide a unique cultural experience for tourists.
6. Abu Simbel Sun Festival: A bi-annual event that attracts tourists from all over the world to the temple of Abu Simbel to witness the sun align perfectly with the statues of Ramses and Ra-Harakhte.

Egypt: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Egypt, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here's an itinerary for a two-week trip to Egypt: Day 1: Arrive in Cairo and check into your hotel.
Day 2: Visit the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.
Day 3: Explore the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.
Day 4: Visit the Alabaster Mosque and the Citadel of Salah El Din in Cairo.
Day 5: Take a day trip to Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt, and Saqqara, where you can see the famous Step Pyramid.
Day 6: Fly to Luxor and visit the Temple of Karnak and Luxor Temple.
Day 7: Take a hot air balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings and Queens, and visit the tombs of Tutankhamun and other pharaohs.
Day 8: Visit the temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo on a Nile River cruise.
Day 9: Visit the Temple of Philae in Aswan and take a felucca ride on the Nile.
Day 10: Visit the Abu Simbel temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 11: Return to Luxor and visit the Colossi of Memnon and the Hatshepsut Temple.
Day 12: Relax and enjoy a day by the Red Sea in Hurghada or Sharm el-Sheikh.
Day 13: Visit Alexandria and see the Citadel of Qaitbay, Pompey's Pillar, and the Alexandria Library.
Day 14: Return to Cairo and explore Islamic Cairo, including the famous Khan El Khalili Bazaar.
Of course, this itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can customize it based on your interests and time constraints. Happy travels!

Egypt: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Egypt described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Abu Simbel is a small village located in southern Egypt near the border with Sudan. The village is known for the two massive rock temples, built during the reign of Pharaoh Ramesses II in the 13th cen... CONTINUE here for a trip to Abu Simbel
- Alexandria is a historic city located on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea in Egypt. It was founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC and served as the capital of Egypt during the Ptolemaic dynasty. T... CONTINUE here for a trip to Alexandria
- Aswan is a city in southern Egypt, located along the Nile River. It is famous for its position as the gateway to the ancient temples and ruins of Abu Simbel, and is also close to the famous temples of... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aswan
- Cairo is the capital city of Egypt, located on the banks of the Nile River. It is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, with many famous landmarks such as the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cairo
- Dahab is a small town located on the southeast coast of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt, situated right next to the Red Sea. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dahab
- El Arish is a city located in the North Sinai Governorate in Egypt, situated on the Mediterranean coast. It is the capital of the North Sinai Governorate and has a population of around 100,000 people.... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Arish
- El Gouna is a resort town located on the Red Sea coast of Egypt. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class water sports. El Gouna also boasts a wide range of restaur... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Gouna
- El Quseir is a small coastal city located in the Red Sea Governorate of Egypt. It is situated about halfway between Hurghada and Marsa Alam and has a population of about 120,000 residents. El Quseir i... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Quseir
- El Tor is a small city located in the southern part of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. It is the capital of the South Sinai Governorate and situated on the Gulf of Aqaba. El Tor is renowned for its beau... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Tor
- El Tur is a coastal city in the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt. It is the administrative capital of the South Sinai Governorate. The city is located on the eastern side of the Sinai Peninsula, overlooking t... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Tur
- Fayoum is a city located in the western region of Egypt, about 80 kilometers southwest of Cairo. It is the capital city of the Fayoum Governorate and is situated in a depression known as the Fayoum Oa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Fayoum
- Hurghada is a coastal city located in the Red Sea Governorate of Egypt. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, making it a popular destination for scuba ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hurghada
- Luxor is a city in Egypt, known for its temples and ancient ruins. It is located on the east bank of the Nile River and was once the site of the ancient city of Thebes, capital of the New Kingdom. It ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Luxor
- Marsa Alam is a popular tourism destination located in the southeastern part of Egypt, situated on the Red Sea coast. It is known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and abundant marine life, maki... CONTINUE here for a trip to Marsa Alam
- Marsa Matruh is a coastal city located in the northwest of Egypt, along the Mediterranean Sea. It is the capital of the Matrouh Governorate and is known for its beautiful beaches and clear blue waters... CONTINUE here for a trip to Marsa Matruh
- Nuweiba is a small coastal town located in the eastern part of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. It is situated on the shores of the Gulf of Aqaba, and is known for its stunning natural beauty, especially... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nuweiba
- Port Safaga is a city located on the coast of the Red Sea in Egypt. It is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and colorful coral reefs, which make it a popular destination for scuba diving ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Port Safaga
- Quaseir is a small city located in the Red Sea Governorate of Egypt. It is situated about 205 km south of Hurghada and 140 km north of Marsa Alam. Traditionally, Quseir has been an important port for ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Quseir
- Ras Shitan is a beautiful and unique beach destination located on the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. It is famous for its crystal-clear waters, stunning coral reefs, and laid-back atmosphere. It is a popul... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ras Shitan
- Ras Sudr is a small coastal town located on the western shore of the Gulf of Suez, in Egypt. It is known for its white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, which make it a popular destination for w... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ras Sudr
- Safaga is a city located on the Red Sea coast in Egypt. It is approximately 53 kilometers south of Hurghada city and 450 kilometers southeast of Cairo. Safaga is known for its beautiful beaches, clear... CONTINUE here for a trip to Safaga
- Sahl Hasheesh is a luxurious resort town located on the Red Sea coast in Egypt, approximately 18 km south of the popular city of Hurghada. It is a fast-growing tourism destination, known for its beaut... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sahl Hasheesh
- Sharm el-Maya is a resort town located in Egypt's South Sinai Governorate, along the coast of the Red Sea. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and exceptional snorkeling and d... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sharm el-Maya
- Sharm el-Sheikh is a city located in the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. The city is home... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sharm el-Sheikh
- Siwa Oasis is a rural town located in the western desert of Egypt, near the border with Libya. It is one of the most isolated settlements in Egypt, with a population of around 25,000 people. Siwa Oasi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Siwa Oasis
- Soma Bay is a resort destination located on the Red Sea coast of Egypt, approximately 45 kilometers south of Hurghada. The area is known for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and world-class d... CONTINUE here for a trip to Soma Bay
- Suez is a city in northeastern Egypt, located on the north coast of the Gulf of Suez, a western branch of the Red Sea. It is situated around 100 kilometers east of Cairo and is the capital of the Suez... CONTINUE here for a trip to Suez
- Taba is a small town located on the northern tip of the Gulf of Aqaba, in the eastern part of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning co... CONTINUE here for a trip to Taba
- Taba Heights is a resort area located on the eastern coast of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. It is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Taba Heights


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