Egypt Travel Guide: A Comprehensive Guide to Exploring the Land of the Pharaohs

Introduction

Egypt, a country of rich history, diverse culture, and unparalleled heritage, stands as a top travel destination for millions of tourists annually. From the ancient pyramids and bustling bazaars to the tranquil Nile and the vast desert landscapes, Egypt offers a unique blend of historical exploration and modern adventure. This guide covers all the essential travel details to help you plan an unforgettable journey to the land of the Pharaohs. 

1.     Preparing for Your Trip

1.1. Best Time to Visit

• Winter (November to February): Ideal for visiting major sites with mild temperatures ranging from 14°C to 22°C (57°F to 72°F).
• Spring (March to May): Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and blooming landscapes.
• Summer (June to August): Very hot, especially in southern Egypt, but good for diving and beach activities on the Red Sea.
• Autumn (September to October): Warm but comfortable, perfect for exploring cities and historical sites.

1.2. Visa Requirements

• Tourist Visa: Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Egyptian airports or apply online for an e-Visa.
• Duration: Typically 30 days, with the option to extend.
• Required Documents: Passport valid for at least six months, a completed visa application form, and a passport-sized photo.

1.3. Health and Safety

• Vaccinations: Routine vaccinations, Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and Rabies (if engaging in outdoor activities).
• Health & Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended.
• Safety Tips: Avoid demonstrations, respect local customs, stay hydrated, and be cautious of scams.

2.     Major Destinations and Attractions

2.1. Cairo

• Pyramids of Giza: The Great Pyramid, Sphinx, and the surrounding complex.
• Egyptian Museum: Home to thousands of artifacts, including Tutankhamun’s treasures.
• Islamic Cairo: Al-Azhar Mosque, Khan El Khalili Bazaar, and the Citadel of Saladin.
• Coptic Cairo: Hanging Church, Ben Ezra Synagogue, and the Coptic Museum.

2.2. Luxor

• Karnak Temple: One of the largest ancient religious sites.
• Luxor Temple: A stunningly preserved temple complex.
• Valley of the Kings: Tombs of the Pharaohs, including Tutankhamun’s tomb.
• Hatshepsut’s Temple: A unique mortuary temple.

2.3. Aswan

• Philae Temple: Dedicated to the goddess Isis.
• Nubian Museum: Showcasing Nubian culture and history.
• Abu Simbel: Colossal temples built by Ramses II.

2.4. Alexandria

• Bibliotheca Alexandrina: A modern library and cultural center.
• Qaitbay Citadel: A 15th-century fortress.
• Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa: Ancient underground tombs.

2.5. Red Sea Riviera

• Sharm El Sheikh: Renowned for its diving spots and resorts.
• Hurghada: A hub for water sports and nightlife.
• Dahab: Known for its relaxed vibe and excellent diving.

3.     Activities and Experiences

3.1. Historical Tours

• Guided Tours: Professional guides for an in-depth understanding of historical sites.

3.2. Adventure Activities

• Diving and Snorkeling: Red Sea coral reefs, shipwrecks, and marine life.
• Desert Safaris: Camel rides, dune bashing, and Bedouin camps in the Sahara and Sinai.
• Hot Air Balloon Rides: Over Luxor for a bird’s-eye view of the temples and Nile.

3.3. Cultural Experiences

• Local Markets: Souvenirs, spices, textiles, and traditional crafts.
• Cuisine: Enjoy Egyptian dishes like koshari, falafel, and ful medames.
• Festivals: Ramadan, Cairo International Film Festival, and local cultural events.

4.     Practical Information

4.1. Currency and Costs

• Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP).
• ATMs and Banks: Widely available in cities; credit cards accepted in major establishments.
• Costs: Affordable compared to Western standards. Expect to spend around $30-$50 per day on budget, $50-$100 on mid-range, and $150+ on luxury.

4.2. Transportation

• Domestic Flights: Efficient for long distances (e.g., Cairo to Luxor/Aswan).
• Trains: Reliable service between major cities (Cairo, Luxor, Aswan).
• Buses and Minibuses: Economical options for intercity travel.
• Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Uber and local taxis available in major cities.
• River Cruises: Luxury and budget cruises along the Nile.

4.3. Language and Communication

• Language: Arabic is the official language; English widely spoken in tourist areas.
• Internet and SIM Cards: SIM cards (Vodafone, Orange, Etisalat) available for purchase. Wi-Fi accessible in hotels and cafes.

4.4. Etiquette and Customs

• Dress Code: Modest dress recommended, especially in religious sites.
• Greetings: Handshakes common; use right hand for eating and giving gifts.
• Photography: Ask permission before photographing locals, especially in rural areas.

5.     Sample Itineraries

5.1. Classic Egypt (10 Days)

• Day 1-2: Cairo – Pyramids of Giza, Egyptian Museum.
• Day 3-4: Aswan – Philae Temple, Nubian Museum, Felucca ride, Abu Simbel and Nile Cruise. 
• Day 5-6:  Nile Cruise with excursions to Komobo & Edfu Temples along the way.
• Day 7-8: Luxor – Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut’s Temple.
• Day 9-10: Cairo City Tour & departure.

5.2. Cultural Immersion (14 Days)

• Day 1-2: Cairo – Islamic Cairo, Coptic Cairo.
• Day 3-4: Alexandria – Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Catacombs, coastal experience.
• Day 5-9: Aswan and Abu Simbel – Temples, Nubian villages, Nile Cruise to Luxor – Temples, tombs, hot air balloon ride.
• Day 9-12: Red Sea Riviera – Diving, snorkeling, beach relaxation.
• Day 13-14: Cairo for departure (optional activities)

5.3. Adventure and Relaxation (12 Days)

• Day 1-3: Cairo – Pyramids, Sphinx, museum visits.
• Day 4-7: Luxor and Nile Cruise – Temples, felucca rides.
• Day 8-11: Red Sea Riviera – Diving, snorkeling, beach relaxation.
• Day 12: Cairo for departure (optional activities)

6.     Photography 

6.1. Photography in Public and Rules

Egypt is a photographer’s paradise, with
endless opportunities to capture stunning landscapes, historical sites, and
vibrant street life. However, there are a few important rules and guidelines to
keep in mind:

• Photography Restrictions:
  
  • Military and Government Buildings: Photography is strictly prohibited.
  • Museums and Tombs: Many
    museums and tombs, including the Egyptian Museum and the Valley of the
    Kings, restrict or prohibit photography. Always check for signage and ask
    if unsure.
  • Local People:
    Always ask for permission before photographing locals, especially women
    and children. Some may request a small fee.
• Drones: Drone usage is heavily regulated and
  generally requires special permits from the Egyptian Civil Aviation
  Authority. It’s advisable to avoid using drones without proper
  authorization.
• Respectful Photography: Be
  mindful of religious sites and cultural sensitivities. Avoid photographing
  in mosques during prayer times and always seek permission before capturing
  sacred spaces.
• Camera Equipment:
  High-quality camera gear can attract unwanted attention. Keep your
  equipment secure and be cautious in crowded areas to avoid theft.

7.     Food 

7.1. Food and Food Safety

Egyptian cuisine is a delightful blend of
flavors, influenced by various cultures over millennia. While enjoying the
local food, it’s important to adhere to certain food safety practices:

• Popular Dishes:
  
  • Koshari: A hearty mix of rice,
    pasta, lentils, chickpeas, and fried onions, topped with tomato sauce.
  • Falafel (Ta’amiya): Deep-fried
    patties made from ground fava beans or chickpeas.
  • Ful Medames:
    Slow-cooked fava beans, often served for breakfast.
  • Molokhia: A
    green soup made from jute leaves, typically served with rice or bread.
• Street Food:
  Street food is delicious and affordable, but exercise caution:
  
  • Choose vendors with high turnover to ensure food freshness.
  • Avoid raw or undercooked foods and opt for items cooked in front
    of you.
  • Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly or opt for peeled varieties.
• Drinking Water: Tap
  water in Egypt is not recommended for drinking. Stick to bottled water,
  which is widely available and affordable. Avoid ice in drinks unless
  you’re certain it’s made from purified water.
• Dining Out:
  
  • Restaurants: Look
    for busy restaurants with a high turnover of customers. These are more
    likely to serve fresh, hygienic food.
  • Buffets: Be cautious with buffet
    food that may have been sitting out for extended periods. Ensure hot food
    is served hot and cold food is cold.

      8.     Tipping

8.1. Tipping

Tipping, known as “baksheesh” in
Egypt, is a common practice and an integral part of Egyptian culture. It’s a
way to show appreciation for services rendered and is expected in many
situations. Here’s a simple guide to help foreign travelers understand the
practice:

Why Tipping is Important:

• Cultural Norm:
  Tipping is ingrained in daily life in Egypt. It’s seen as a way to express
  gratitude for good service.
• Supplementing Income: Many
  workers in the service industry rely on tips to supplement their modest
  incomes.

When and How Much to Tip:

• Hotels:
  
  • Porters: 20 EGP per bag.
  • Housekeeping:
    30-50 EGP per night.
  • Concierge:
    50-100 EGP for helpful services.
• Restaurants:
  10-15% of the bill, even if a service charge is included.
• Guides and Drivers:
  
  • Tour Guides:
    500-600 EGP per person per day.
  • Drivers: 200-300 EGP per day.
• Taxis: Round up to the nearest 10 EGP.
• Other Services:
  
  • Restroom Attendants: 5-10
    EGP.
  • Small Services: 10-20
    EGP for minor assistance.

How to Tip:

• Cash: Always tip in cash and hand it directly
  to the person you are tipping.
• Local Currency: It’s
  best to tip in Egyptian Pounds (EGP).

Cultural Tips:

• Respect: Tipping is a sign of respect and
  acknowledgment of someone’s effort.
• Modesty: Discreetly offer the tip rather than
  making a show of it.
• Gratitude: A
  warm smile and a “thank you” (shukran) go a long way.

By tipping, you’re participating in a cultural
practice that helps support the local economy and shows your appreciation for
the service you receive.

9.     Female Travel Safety Advice

9.1. Female Travel Safety Tips

Traveling in Egypt as a woman can be a unique
and rewarding experience. While Egypt is generally safe, female travelers
should take certain precautions:

• Dress Modestly: To
  respect local customs and avoid unwanted attention, dress conservatively.
  Cover your shoulders, cleavage, and knees. In tourist areas, the dress
  code is more relaxed, but modesty is still appreciated.
• Public Transport: Women
  may feel more comfortable using ride-sharing apps like Uber instead of
  hailing taxis on the street. If using public buses or trains, choose the
  women-only carriages if available.
• Avoid Walking Alone at Night: Stick
  to well-lit, busy areas after dark. If you need to walk at night, consider
  hiring a trusted guide or traveling in a group.
• Be Cautious with Attention: Be
  polite but firm if you receive unwanted attention. Ignore catcalls and
  avoid making prolonged eye contact with strangers.
• Use Reputable Tour Operators: When
  booking tours or excursions, choose well-reviewed and reputable operators.
  This ensures safety and reliability.
• Local Support: If you ever feel unsafe or uncomfortable, approach your tour guide, or local women or families
  for assistance. They are often willing to help and offer support.
• Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including Elite Travel Gate local staff, the local police, your country’s
  embassy, and your accommodation’s contact information.