Egypt Travel Guide
Written by Joeri Van Overloop
Why Visit Egypt?
Egypt is an incredible country steeped in history and culture. It's also a great destination for travelers looking to explore and experience something new. From the ancient pyramids of Giza to the Nile River, there is so much to see and do in Egypt. If you're planning a visit, this Egypt travel guide will provide you with everything you need to know about traveling to Egypt, including essential tips and advice on where to stay, what to eat, and the best attractions to visit.
Egypt is a wondrous place to visit, with plenty of interesting and exciting activities to partake in. So here are a few great reasons why visiting Egypt should be at the top of your list when considering where to go on holiday.
Firstly, the country is rich in history, making it a great destination for those interested in culture and ancient monuments such as the Pyramids of Giza and Luxor Temple.
Secondly, you can explore some amazing natural wonders such as Siwa oasis – one of the most beautiful places in Egypt – or take a cruise down the Nile River to admire its stunning scenery.
Thirdly, there are numerous opportunities for adventure; from scuba diving in the Red Sea and sandboarding along giant dunes to trekking through desert canyons or camel riding across vast plains.
The resorts in Egypt offer some of the best value for money in the world. With access to incredible beaches, hotels, and spas, you can experience the luxury of the country at an affordable price.
Egypt is also a great destination for anyone looking to explore the natural wonders of the country. From the Red Sea to the Nile, to the White Desert, there are plenty of amazing sights to discover.
Whether it’s shopping in the markets of Cairo or exploring the nightlife in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt has something for everyone.
There are also plenty of activities to enjoy in Egypt, from scuba diving and snorkeling to sand boarding and camel riding.
The food in Egypt is also delicious, with a range of traditional dishes to choose from.
Finally, the people of Egypt are incredibly welcoming and friendly, making it a great place to visit.
Frequently Asked Questions When Travelling To Egypt
What Is A Good Budget For A Trip To Egypt?
The cost of a trip to Egypt will depend on how long you plan to stay, what type of accommodation and activities you want to do, and where you plan to travel to. However, a good budget for a one-week trip to Egypt would be about $1,500 to $2,500. This would cover flights, accommodation, some meals, and transportation.
Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Egypt varies greatly depending on the type of accommodation and the location. Hotels range from budget-friendly hostels and basic guesthouses to luxurious five-star resorts. Prices can range from as little as $10 USD per night for a basic hostel to $500+ USD per night for a luxury resort. Airbnb rentals and private apartments can also provide excellent and more affordable options. Prices for Airbnb rentals can range from $20-$100 USD per night depending on the location and amenities.
Food and drink: The cost of eating out in Egypt can vary greatly depending on the type of restaurant and the types of food served. Generally, a meal in a local café or street food stall will cost between 10-20 Egyptian pounds (EGP), while a meal in a mid-range restaurant will cost between 40-60 EGP. A nice dinner in an upscale restaurant can cost upwards of 100 EGP. In addition to the cost of the meal itself, tips are expected in most restaurants, with 10% being the most common.
Transportation: The cost of public transportation in Egypt varies depending on the type of transportation being used. Generally, the cost of public transportation in Egypt is very affordable and ranges from around 2-5 EGP (Egyptian Pound) for buses, 10-15 EGP for taxis and 40-50 EGP for the underground metro.
Activities and Excursions: The cost of activities and excursions in Egypt can vary greatly depending on the type of activity and where in Egypt you plan to go. Some activities, such as snorkeling and diving, may cost around $45 USD for a single person and can go up to hundreds of dollars for a group.
Other activities, such as camel rides and hot air balloon rides, will cost around $50 - $100 USD per person. Luxury Nile cruises can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand. And visits to the Pyramids of Giza, Luxor, and other historical sites typically cost between $15 - $30 USD per person.
It is important to keep in mind that this is a rough estimate and your actual budget may vary depending on your preferences and travel style.
How Many Days In Egypt Is Enough?
It really depends on what you want to see and do in Egypt. If you are only interested in the most popular tourist attractions, then you could probably see the highlights of Egypt in about one week. However, if you want to explore more in-depth, 2-3 weeks is recommended.
For example, you can start your journey in Cairo and explore the city’s ancient sites, such as the iconic Great Pyramids and the Sphinx. Then board a Nile River cruise and marvel at the ancient temples and tombs of Luxor, Aswan and other cities along the way. End your voyage in Aswan and make an excursion to Abu Simbel to explore the impressive ancient temples.
Or begin your tour in Cairo and explore the ancient sites and bustling markets. Then head to the Valley of the Kings, where you can explore the tombs of Pharaohs and learn about ancient Egyptian culture. Take a camel ride in the western desert, followed by a hot air balloon ride over the Red Sea. End your journey in Dahab, exploring the Sinai desert and snorkeling in the Red Sea.
Option number 3 is to start your trip in Hurghada and explore the city’s stunning beaches. Then venture out on a diving tour of the Red Sea, discovering a variety of colorful coral reefs, tropical fish and other marine life. End your journey in Alexandria and explore the ancient Roman ruins, followed by a day trip to the Mediterranean.
What Is The Best Way To Tour Egypt?
The best way to travel around Egypt is by taking a tour. This will allow you to visit the most popular and historical sites, as well as get help from a knowledgeable guide. You can also hire a car and drive yourself, however this may be more challenging due to language barriers and road conditions. Alternatively, you can use public transport such as buses and trains to explore the country.
Ultimately, the best way to travel around Egypt will depend on your travel itinerary, budget, and comfort level. You may find that a combination of these options works best for your specific needs and preferences.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Egypt?
The best time to visit Egypt depends on what you want to experience during your trip. If you’re looking for a hot summer holiday, the months from May to September are peak season in Egypt, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C. This is ideal for those looking for sun, beach and sea activities.
To avoid the heat though and get more out of sightseeing without fighting through crowds, shoulder seasons such as April or October may be better suited. Temperatures still remain around 30°C but humidity levels drop significantly making it easier to explore all that Egypt has to offer while not feeling overwhelmed by heat exhaustion.
What Are The Dos And Don’ts In Egypt?
Here are a few dos and don'ts to keep in mind when visiting Egypt:
Dos:
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Respect religious beliefs.
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
- Drink bottled water and be sure to stay hydrated.
- Make sure to carry your passport with you at all times.
- Learn a few words of the local language.
Don’ts:
- Don’t take pictures or videos of military or government buildings.
- Don’t bargain too hard at markets.
- Don’t display too much public affection.
- Don’t drink alcohol in public.
- Don’t enter a mosque without permission.
- Don’t litter or throw trash in public.
By following these simple guidelines, you will be able to fully enjoy your visit to Egypt and have an amazing experience while respecting the culture and traditions of the country.
What Are The Visa Requirements For Egypt?
All tourists must acquire a valid visa in order to enter Egypt and travel throughout its many provinces. Visas can be acquired via various methods such as online application or embassy visits.
The most common form of tourist visa is known as a “multiple-entry” or “single-entry” visa that grants access until its expiration date or until the traveler leaves Egypt. Single entry visas require travelers stay within their province of origin while multiple entry visas allow them to visit other regions beyond their original destination.
Do I need Travel Insurance To Visit Egypt?
Travel insurance is not legally required to visit Egypt, but it is highly recommended. It is important to make sure you have adequate coverage in case of any medical emergencies, lost items, or other unexpected events.
How To Stay Safe In Egypt?
Egypt is generally considered a safe place to travel, although there are some areas where tourists should be more cautious. As with any country, it is wise to research the local areas, take sensible precautions and follow the advice of the local authorities.
Overall, with the proper precautions, Egypt is a safe and enjoyable destination for travelers.
Where To Stay In Egypt?
The Best Booking Resources For Egypt
These are the companies I use predominantly when I travel. They offer great customer service and the best value, consistently outperform their competitors, as they always have excellent deals. I rely on them the most, and they are the starting point in my search for travel deals.
Booking.com - This is the best travel partner when it comes to planning your vacation in Egypt. With over 28 million listings in more than 200 countries and territories, you'll have no problem choosing from the world's most comprehensive selection of accommodations - from exotic villas to cozy apartments! Booking.com offers a secure and convenient way to book your next holiday, with unbeatable deals that will make sure you get the best value for your money when travelling to Egypt.
Skyscanner - This is the perfect tool for finding the best flights at the best prices to Egypt. With a comprehensive selection of airlines to choose from, you can compare prices and routes in seconds - saving you time, stress and money. Skyscanner's intuitive search engine makes it easy to find great deals on domestic and international flights. Plus, you can easily customize your search preferences so you get results that fit your budget and destination needs.
Get Your Guide - Are you looking for ways to make your travel experiences more memorable? With GetYourGuide, you can book amazing activities, tours and attractions all over Egypt. Whether it’s a tour of an iconic city landmark or unique experience that’s off the beaten path, GetYourGuide offers something spectacular for any traveler. With thousands of things to do and see in different cities around Egypt, this platform simplifies the search process with user-friendly filters.
More Egypt Travel Resources