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Egypt welcomes you with its mighty Nile and magnificent monuments, the beguiling desert and lush delta, and with its long past and welcoming, story-loving people.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Egypt. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Amun Temple Enclosure

Amun-Ra was the local god of Karnak (Luxor) and during the New Kingdom, when the princes of Thebes ruled Egypt, he became the preeminent state god, with a…

St Catherine's Monastery

This ancient monastery traces its founding to about AD 330, when Byzantine empress Helena had a small chapel and a fortified refuge for local hermits…

Temple of Horus

Southern Nile Valley

This Ptolemaic temple, built between 237 and 57 BC, is one of the best-preserved ancient monuments in Egypt. Preserved by desert sand, which filled the…

Temple of Seti I

Northern Nile Valley

The first structure you’ll see at Abydos is the Great Temple of Seti I, which, after a certain amount of restoration work, is one of the most complete,…

Great Temple of Ramses II

Carved out of the mountain on the west bank of the Nile between 1274 and 1244 BC, this imposing main temple of the Abu Simbel complex was as much…

Temple of Isis

Built to honour the goddess Isis, this was the last temple built in the classical Egyptian style. Construction began around 690 BC, and it was one of the…

White Desert National Park

Western Desert

Upon first glimpse of the 300-sq-km national park of the White Desert, you’ll feel like Alice through the looking-glass. About 20km northeast of Farafra,…

Valley of the Kings

The west bank of Luxor had been the site of royal burials since around 2100 BC, but it was the pharaohs of the New Kingdom period (1550–1069 BC) who chose…

Top picks from our travel experts

15 best experiences in egypt for history, adventure and culture.

Luxor Temple

Largely built by the New Kingdom pharaohs Amenhotep III (1390–1352 BC) and Ramses II (1279–1213 BC), this temple is a strikingly graceful monument in the…

Tomb of Seti I (KV 17)

One of the great achievements of Egyptian art, this cathedral-like tomb is the finest in the Valley of the Kings. Long closed to visitors, it is now…

Carved into a reef, 8km north of Dahab, is Egypt’s most infamous dive site. The Blue Hole is a gaping sinkhole that drops straight down – some say…

Sataya Reef

Horseshoe-shaped Sataya, 50km north of Berenice, is the main reef of the Fury Shoals, and has steep walls leading down to a sandy slope scattered with a…

Wadi Al Hittan

This Unesco World Heritage Site is home to the earliest prehistoric whale fossils ever discovered. The more than 400 basilosaurus and dorodontus (both…

Karnak is an extraordinary complex of sanctuaries, kiosks, pylons and obelisks dedicated to the Theban triad but also to the greater glory of pharaohs…

Khan Al Khalili

The skinny lanes of Khan Al Khalili are basically a medieval-style mall. This agglomeration of shops – many arranged around small courtyards – stocks…

Bab Zuweila

Built in the 11th century, beautiful Bab Zuweila was an execution site during Mamluk times, and today is the only remaining southern gate of the medieval…

Pyramids of Giza

The last remaining wonder of the ancient world; for nearly 4000 years, the extraordinary shape, impeccable geometry and sheer bulk of the Giza Pyramids…

Although only the burial chamber is decorated, this tomb, tucked away in the West Valley, is noted for its scenes of Ay hunting hippopotamus and fishing…

Tomb of Ramses III (KV 11)

One of the most popular tombs in the valley, KV 11 is also one of the most interesting and best preserved. Originally started by Sethnakht (1186–1184 BC),…

Valley of the Queens

At the southern end of the Theban hillside, the Valley of the Queens contains at least 75 tombs that belonged to queens of the 19th and 20th dynasties as…

Tomb of Nefertari

Nefertari's tomb is hailed as one of the finest in the Theban necropolis – and all of Egypt for that matter. Nefertari was one of five wives of Ramses II,…

Luxor Museum

This wonderful museum has a well-chosen and brilliantly displayed and explained collection of antiquities dating from the end of the Old Kingdom right…

Wadi Rayyan Protected Area

The 'waterfalls' in the Wadi Rayyan Protected Area are a major attraction for weekend picnickers from Cairo. The waterfalls, where one lake drains into…

Cleopatra’s Spring

Following the track that leads to the Temple of the Oracle and continuing past the Temple of Umm Ubayd will lead you to Siwa’s most famous spring. The…

Medinat Habu

Ramses III’s magnificent memorial temple of Medinat Habu, fronted by sleepy Kom Lolah village and backed by the Theban mountains, is one of the west bank…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

You might visit Egypt for the history, the adventure, the beaches or even just the pyramids - when it comes to things to do, you are spoiled for choice.

Things to Know

Plan the perfect trip to Egypt with these essential tips on etiquette, health and safety.

Transportation

Transport in Egypt is fairly efficient and reasonably priced. Here are the best ways to get around Egypt, from overnight trains to cruise boats on the Nile.

Visa Requirements

Before you set off on your Egypt adventure, check this handy guide to find out all the Egyptian visa information you need for your trip.

Money and Costs

Don't think a small budget will restrict your Egyptian adventure. With our top tips, you can explore the whole country without breaking the bank.

Traveling with Kids

Egypt can be a challenging destination to visit, but the country is a treasure trove of activities for families. Here's how to visit Egypt with kids.

Best Road Trips

Experience the best of Egypt with these spectacular road trip routes.

Plan with a local

Experience the real Egypt

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Egypt

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Destination Practicalities

Mar 12, 2024 • 4 min read

With tombs, pyramids and towering temples, Egypt brings out the explorer in all of us. This handy month-by-month guide shows the best time to visit Egypt.

Jan 26, 2024 • 6 min read

Oct 3, 2023 • 6 min read

Sep 4, 2023 • 5 min read

Sep 3, 2023 • 4 min read

Aug 23, 2023 • 7 min read

Aug 18, 2023 • 9 min read

Aug 18, 2023 • 8 min read

Aug 17, 2023 • 5 min read

Aug 16, 2023 • 9 min read

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Egypt and beyond

Update May 10, 2024

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Egypt Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 13, 2023, egypt - level 3: reconsider travel.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Reconsider travel to Egypt due to  terrorism . Exercise increased caution in Egypt due to  the Embassy’s limited ability to assist dual national U.S.-Egyptian citizens who are arrested or detained.

Do not travel to:

• The Sinai Peninsula (with the exception of travel to Sharm El-Sheikh by air) due to  terrorism .
• The Western Desert due to  terrorism .
• Egyptian border areas due to  military zones .

Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting attacks in Egypt. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, and have targeted diplomatic facilities, tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, western businesses, restaurants, resorts, and local government facilities. Terrorists have conducted attacks in urban areas, including in Cairo, despite the heavy security presence. Terrorists have targeted religious sites, to include mosques, churches, monasteries, and buses traveling to these locations.

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Egypt, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices .

Local law prohibits protesting or demonstrating without a permit. Being near anti-government protests can draw scrutiny from Egyptian police and security forces. U.S. citizens have been detained for participating in protests and for posting content on social media perceived as critical of Egypt or its allies.

The U.S. Embassy may have a limited ability to provide consular services to dual U.S.-Egyptian citizens. Egyptian law considers dual citizens to be Egyptian citizens.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Egypt.

If you decide to travel to Egypt:  

• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)   to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on   Facebook   and   Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report   for Egypt.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest   Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the   Traveler’s Checklist .

Sinai Peninsula – Level 4: Do Not Travel The Sinai Peninsula remains a particularly dangerous area, with frequent attacks on security forces and civilians.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens anywhere in the Sinai Peninsula as U.S. government employees are not authorized to travel to these areas (with the exception of the beach resort of Sharm El-Sheikh; travel to Sharm El-Sheikh is only permitted by air). Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

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Egypt Trips & Tour Packages

Awesome ancient wonders, endless golden sands and atmospheric local souqs make Egypt the ultimate travel destination.

You’ve got to see it to believe it in Egypt – the chaos of Cairo (seriously, this city never stops); the bustling bazaars; the imposing glory of the Pyramids of Giza, and the world’s most famous lion with a human head (the iconic Sphinx).Only in Egypt can you sail into the sunset on a felucca cruise along the Nile, marvel at the world's most spectacular temple complexes, wander through Luxor’s Valley of the Kings, and then float facing towards the sky in the glittering expanse of the Red Sea. Take a moment as time stands still in Egypt.

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Egypt at a glance

Capital city.

Cairo (population 9.4 million)

107.5 million

Egyptian pound (EGP)

(GMT+02:00) Cairo

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin)

Learn more about Egypt

Best time to visit egypt.

Egypt is blessed with lots of sunshine and very little rain. Generally, the hottest months are June to August, and the coolest month is January. Rainfall is negligible, except on the coast, with rain usually occurring during the winter months (December to March).

During the summer months (from June to August), daily temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius) - perfect for snorkeling and soaking up the sun on the beaches of Sinai, but can prove challenging for some in the crowded streets and souqs of Cairo.

Choose to escape the crowds by traveling from March to May or September to November when the weather is milder, and there's the opportunity to experience Egypt during Ramadan and the celebrations of Eid (which marks the breaking of the fast). If you are planning to travel during Ramadan, it's important to consider that many restaurants and shops will either be closed or operating at reduced hours.

Read more about the best time to visit Egypt

Culture and customs

Life in Egypt has been in a state of flux since the 2011 revolution. Many of the issues that motivated so many to take to the streets in protest continue to be points of contention, but Egyptians remain hopeful, relying on religion, family and humor to get them through, like they have for thousands of years. A strong sense of community binds people across the country. Families and communities support each other and there is a prevailing sense that everyone is in it together. For all these reasons, most express great pride in being Egyptian, despite their nation’s recent turmoil.

As a largely Muslim country (about 90% of the population is Muslim while most of the remaining 10% identify as Coptic Christian), Islam permeates daily activities. Life revolves around the five daily prayers and everything is closed on Friday, the Muslim holy day. A wide array of cultural norms, including how people dress and interact with the opposite sex, are influenced by religion. Women are largely defined by their role as a mother and matron of the house, whereas men are expected to be the provider.

Many Egyptians consider their country the gateway between the West and the rest of the Arab world, and take pride in their ability to mix tradition with modern influences. This mixing is most apparent in major cities, such as Cairo and Alexandria, where American fast-food chains can be found next to traditional cafes, secular attitudes are more common, and pop music rings through city streets.

Food and drink

With fragrant spices, fresh fruit and vegetables, and delicious sweets on offer, culinary adventures in Egypt are guaranteed. On many Intrepid trips you'll be given the opportunity to dine with a local family – this offers a great chance to see how meals are prepared and learn more about the ingredients.

Things to try in Egypt

1. Hamam mahshi

A north African delicacy, hamam – roasted pigeon stuffed with cracked wheat and rice – can be found on the menu of most traditional Egyptian restaurants. You may need a few to fill up though, as they don’t contain a lot of meat. And be careful of all the tiny bones.

2. Ta'ameya (falafel)

Crunchy on the outside, and moist on the inside, these deep-fried balls of spiced fava beans are a Middle Eastern vegetarian staple. Usually served in a pita with salad, pickles, and sesame-based tahina - buy it at a street stall for a quick, cheap meal.

Shops specializing in this popular ‘poor man’s dish’ can be found throughout Cairo. A hearty mix of rice, macaroni and lentils, chickpeas, and fried onions, koshary is topped with a tomato-vinegar sauce.

4. Ful medames

Don't leave Egypt without trying the classic dish of ful medames, which can be traced back to pharaonic times. Consisting of slow-cooked fava beans, served with olive oil, parsley, garlic, and lemon juice - add some spice by seasoning with chili paste and eat with bread.

5. Pastries

Delicious, sweet pastries are found in restaurants, markets, and cafes in Egypt. Never was there a better time to live by the adage ‘Life is short, eat dessert first’.

Egypt is a mostly Muslim country, and any consumption of alcohol here is relatively low-key. There are many fantastic alternatives. Juice stands are common on main streets offering freshly squeezed banana, guava, or mango juice. Karkadai is a chilled, crimson drink brewed from hibiscus leaves (served hot in the winter). And tea (or shai) is the beverage of choice for most Egyptians, which is sipped throughout the day and with meals.

Read more about what to eat in Egypt

Read more about what to drink in Egypt

Geography and environment

Located in the northeast corner of Africa, Egypt shares its borders with Israel and the Palestinian Territories, Libya, and Sudan, as well as the Mediterranean Sea to the north and the Red Sea to the east. The two seas are connected by the man-made Suez Canal.

The remote triangle-shaped peninsula is largely characterized by limestone and desert, but also has a vibrant coral reef along the Red Sea coastline. Hot, dry desert covers most of the country’s terrain, with the Western Desert occupying much of the west, and the Arabian (or Eastern) Desert stretching the length of the eastern coast. These two regions are dissected by the Nile River, which runs the length of the country, emptying into the Mediterranean Sea. The Nile Valley, a narrow fertile band extending from the river, is the country’s only fertile land and where 98% of the population lives.

History and government

Recent history.

Napoleon Bonaparte, the infamous pint-sized French leader, invaded Egypt in 1798, seeking to set up a French colony. However, not long after, the French were repelled, and Egypt became a part of the Ottoman Empire once again.

From 1882, the British Army occupied Egypt to protect the Suez Canal. Muhammad Ali officially ruled from the early 1800s, and his family and successors continued to rule for decades (alongside and during British occupation) until overthrown by a military coup in 1952.

During World War II, Egypt became a crucial element in Britain's defense. The Italian Army tried to advance into Egypt in 1940 but was stopped by the British Army at Mersa Matruh. Egypt continued to serve as a vital base for British troops during World War II and despite the disruption, Egypt's shopkeepers and retail trade benefitted from the thousands of Allied troops staying in Egypt.

In 1953, Egypt was officially declared a republic, and a year later, Colonel Nasser was declared Prime Minister, then President. In 1979, after decades of confrontation with neighboring Israel, the historic Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty was signed. This agreement made Egypt the first Arab country to officially recognize Israel as a country - a significant step in the peace process. More recently, in February 2011, large-scale protests and mass demonstrations resulted in the removal of President Mubarak after decades of autocratic rule.

Early history

Ancient Egypt has been the focus of much fascination, investigation, speculation, and intrigue. It's hard to escape the education system without having studied Ancient Egypt in some way. Drawn in by the mighty pyramids, mysterious hieroglyphics, distinct burial rituals and animal-headed gods - scholars, students, historians, and travelers are all amazed by this civilization which has endured cycles of dynastic rule, invasion, and natural disasters.

Through key archaeological finds, historians have been able to unravel some of the mysteries of this great land. What is known is that the daily life of the average Egyptian usually involved working in agriculture with the waters of the Nile providing fertile ground for planting crops. Egyptians usually lived in modest homes with children and domestic pets. Professions were usually inherited - so if your father was a farmer, then so were you.

While most Egyptians led simple lives, dynasties of Pharaohs led lavish lifestyles, with the most well-known being Ramses II, Hatshepsut, Akhenaten, Tutankhamun, and Cleopatra. Huge monuments, imposing pyramids, golden artifacts, and detailed paintings all hold details about pharaonic rule and succession, as well as commonly held beliefs about religion and the afterlife.

Spanning centuries and full of drama worthy of a soap opera, the epic history of Ancient Egypt is complex and we suggest you read about it before visiting.

Top places to visit in Egypt

1. nile river.

Sail down the mighty Nile River on a traditional Egyptian felucca.

Trip: Egypt Experience

Trip: Explore Egypt & Jordan

Dive into the warm, glittering waters of the Red Sea on a snorkeling adventure in Hurghada.

Trip: Jordan & Egypt Express

Trip: Explore Egypt

Trip: Egypt Family Holiday

3. Alexandria

Discover the historic wonders of Alexandria, an ancient port city that locals call the Bride of the Mediterranean Sea.

Trip: Jordan & Egypt Uncovered

Experience the bustling energy of Cairo and shop for souvenirs at Cairo's Khan al-Khalili bazaar.

Trip: Egypt Adventure

5. Mt Sinai

Hike to the summit of Mt Sinai, which many believe is where Moses received the ten commandments.

Trip: Discover Egypt & Jordan

Explore the impressive chapels, pylons and obelisks of Karnak Temple.

Trip: Egypt, Jordan, Isreal & the Palestinian Territories

7. Abu Simbel

These massive monuments dedicated to Ramses II and Queen Nefertari are seriously impressive.

8. Valley of the Kings

King Tut’s treasures may be long gone, but his hieroglyphic-covered tomb remains an incredible sight to see.

Trip: Essential Egypt

Trip: Epic Egypt, Jordan & Isreal & the Palestinian Territories

Trip: Real Egypt & Jordan

Top 10 ancient wonders of Egypt

1. grand designs.

The original grand design - monumental and magnificent - the Pyramids of Giza are an impressive achievement in ancient engineering. Towering above the desert sands and standing proudly for centuries, the first glimpse of these stunning structures will render visitors breathless.

2. Stony enigma

Be captivated by the mysterious aura of the Great Sphinx of Giza. This monolithic mythical beast possesses a lion’s body and a human head - and has sat quietly in the desert sands for eons. Gaze at the Sphinx and try to work out the riddle of its existence.

3. Mighty Nile River

No trip to Egypt is complete without visiting the Nile River - the life force of Egypt that has flowed for centuries. A provider of irrigation, an essential travel route, home to hippos and crocodiles, and now a source of leisure for locals and travelers alike, the Nile is an aquatic link to Egypt’s ancient heritage.

4. Terrific temples

Discover an enormous open-air museum like no other. The awe-inspiring Temples of Karnak are filled with stately statues, immense columns, and gigantic gateways. Explore this intriguing site and be left in no doubt about the brilliance of the ancient Egyptian civilization.

5. Holy mountain

Embark on a trek to the top of Mt Sinai and witness an incredible golden sunrise to remember. A place of worship for many faiths, a pilgrimage to Mt Sinai reveals stunning scenery, an ancient monastery and historic chapels. An iconic highlight of Egypt for believers and non-believers alike, Mt Sinai is not to be missed.

6. Double happiness

Located in the Nile Valley, the unique Temple of Kom Ombo is a ‘double temple’ and a rare archaeological find. Dedicated to two gods, a visit here is a true highlight of an Egyptian escapade. Marvel at the well-preserved wall reliefs, try to decipher the hieroglyphics and honour the craftsmen who created this wonder.

7. Museum magic

Step into a dazzling world of antiquity at the Egyptian Museum. Be amazed by the glittering treasures recovered from King Tutankhamun’s tomb – with jewelry, furniture, chariots and that famous gold funerary mask, this pharaoh was certainly prepared for the afterlife.

8. Roman ruins

The Roman ruins of Kom el-Dikka in Alexandria may not be the biggest, but they are certainly among the best-preserved in Egypt, if not the world. Soak up the atmosphere of the Roman amphitheater and imagine it in all its glory - packed with 800 spectators ready for action.

9. Colossal characters

Near the modern city of Luxor stand the imposing Colossi of Memnon. These massive stone statues of Amenhotep III, while badly damaged, still maintain an unmistakable air of authority. Stand below them and be dwarfed by the scale of these tremendous figures.

10. The ancient heart of Cairo

Wander the cobbled streets of Islamic Cairo and uncover the ancient heart of this chaotic city. Admire mosques, palaces and houses, and peruse the goods on offer at one of the world’s oldest bazaars. Dating back to medieval times, the Khan al-Khalili bazaar is where people have traded goods for centuries.

Souqs – or open-air bazaars – are both the best place to shop in Egypt and attractions in their own right. The biggest and most famous souq is the 500-year-old Khan El Khalili Bazaar in Cairo. Within the maze of narrow streets and laneways lie stalls selling jewelry, glass, copper, spices and artisan goods, along with more standard tourist fare. Quality can vary greatly so spend some time shopping around.

Like many markets around the world, bargaining is the norm, but Egyptians take it to another level. Expect to be offered tea (it can take that long) and for elaborate theatrics from the seller. While bazaars in Cairo tend to sell everything, visit Aswan’s bazaar for spices, incense, and basketwork, and Luxor for cheaply priced alabaster figurines and vases. It's also a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country.

Things to buy in Egypt

You’ll often see spices piled high in bazaars. In addition to making a great photo for Instagram, they’re often a good buy as long as you keep a couple of things in mind. Always buy whole spices rather than ground to ensure freshness and skip the ‘saffron’ – it’s actually safflower and tastes like dust.

2. Glassware

Hand-blown Muski glass, recognizable by its air bubbles, comes in brilliant shades of blue and green and purple and has been made in Egypt since medieval times. Be careful with this purchase though as it’s extremely fragile.

3. Cartouche

A kind of nameplate written in hieroglyphics. Most gold or silver shops sell these and many can customize them by engraving your name.

Festivals and events

Eid al-fitr.

After fasting for an entire month, Muslims celebrate the end of Ramadan with Eid al-Fitr, or ‘Feast of Breaking the Fast’. For three days, starting on the first day of the tenth month of the lunar calendar, people celebrate with feasts, family, and festivals. Look for vendors selling kahk cookies (nut-filled cookies covered in powdered sugar) while taking in the festivities, a tasty treat synonymous with Eid for many locals.

Eid al-Adha

Arguably the most important holiday in Egypt, the ‘Feast of Sacrifice’ is not one for vegetarians and vegans. About 70 days after Eid al-Fitr, sheep, and goats are slaughtered (often in the middle of the street) for a mighty feast.

Sham el-Nessim

Each year on March 21st, Egyptians celebrate the coming of spring by spending the day outdoors. Join the locals for this ancient holiday by packing a picnic and heading to a park or public garden.

Abu Simbel Sun Festival

As if the two temples dedicated to Ramses II and Queen Nefertari weren’t impressive enough, they were constructed in such a way that twice a year, the sun’s rays reach its innermost chambers and illuminate three stone gods that reside within, while leaving Ptah (god of the underworld) in the dark. And those days just happen to be Ramses’s birthday (October 21) and coronation (February 21). Coincidence? We think not.

Read more about festivals in Egypt

Similar destinations

We have a variety of similar destinations, trips and routes that you could consider! Tie another trip into your holiday, or, see how we can help you get from A to B. We have tours departing from a number of locations across Africa. The options below may be of interest:

Cairo to Madaba

Amman to Madaba

Tours from Cairo

Tours to Cairo

Egypt or Jordan?

Further reading

Egypt travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do you need a visa to travel to Egypt?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in Egypt?

Tipping is customary for pretty much all services in Egypt. A tip of 10–15% is customary at cafes and restaurants and loose change is acceptable for food purchases from street vendors and markets. It’s also a good idea to tip local guides and drivers USD$2.50-3 per day.

What is the internet access like in Egypt?

Internet access is growing in Egypt, with internet cafes and Wi-Fi hotspots becoming increasingly common in large cities, especially Cairo, though access may be limited in smaller towns and remote areas.

Can I use my cell phone in Egypt?

Cell phone coverage is generally good in Egypt’s urban areas, but may not be available in remote and desert areas. Ensure global roaming is activated with your service provider before leaving home.

What are the toilets like in Egypt?

Squat toilets are most common in Egypt, although Western-style flushable toilets can be found in larger hotels and some tourist areas.

What will it cost for a...?

Egypt's unit of currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

A couple of pastries = EGP 49 Cup of tea or coffee = EGP 35-50 Falafel sandwich from a street stall = EGP 92 Sit-down dinner at a local restaurant = EGP 100-300

Can I drink the water in Egypt?

Drinking tap water isn’t recommended in Egypt. Remember to avoid drinks with ice and to peel fruit before eating it. Help the environment and try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle with filtered water. Ask your leader or hotel where to find filtered water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Egypt?

Credit cards are usually accepted by modern hotels, large retailers, and tourist sites but are less commonly accepted by smaller vendors in remote areas. Always carry enough cash for smaller purchases in case credit cards are not an option.

What is ATM access like in Egypt?

ATMs are commonly found in larger cities, like Cairo and Alexandria, near shopping centers, tourist areas, and 5-star hotels, but are far less common in small towns and rural areas. Make sure you have enough cash before leaving urban areas.

What public holidays are celebrated in Egypt?

• 7 Jan: Coptic Christmas
• 28 Apr: Coptic Easter*
• 25 Apr: Sinai Liberation Day
• 28 Apr: Sham el-Nessim*
• 1 May: Labor Day
• 5 Jun: Eid al-Fitr*
• 23 Jul: National Day
• 12 Aug: Eid al-Adha
• 11 Sep: Coptic New Year
• 1 Sep: Islamic New Year*
• 6 Oct: Armed Forces Day
• 10 Nov: Birth of Prophet Mohammed*
• *Please note many of these public holidays are religious holidays and change each year as they are celebrated according to the Islamic lunar cycle. For a current list of public holidays in Egypt go to World Travel Guide's website.

Is Egypt a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Discretion is advised for LGBTQI travelers in Egypt. Though homosexuality is not officially outlawed, gay men have been prosecuted using debauchery and public morals laws and given long prison sentences. Be aware that signals are ambiguous in Egypt as men commonly hold hands, link arms and greet each other with a kiss on the cheek. As long as you use common sense, travel in Egypt should not be a problem.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex  or ILGA before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

What to wear in Egypt

Summer temperatures can get very high, so light fabrics like linen, cotton and athletic gear made to take the heat are best. If you’re traveling outside of winter, don’t underestimate the cool change that can come in the evenings, especially if you’re spending the night in the desert or on a Nile cruise. Avoid packing anything in white – desert dust will quickly turn those light-colored clothes a not-so-delightful shade of brown.

How will I travel around Egypt?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Where will I stay in Egypt?

Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When traveling with us in Egypt you may find yourself staying in a:

Felucca Glide down the Nile on a traditional Egyptian felucca; sleep on deck under the stars as the sun slides away for the day - a must-do experience while in Egypt.

Homestay Be welcomed into the home of a local family and experience the cuisine, culture and customs of Egypt firsthand during your stay. A truly authentic travel experience like no other.

Desert camp Travel deep into the White Desert to camp under the stars amid surreal scenery. This is a rare chance to experience the remote wonder and isolation of the Egyptian desert.

With calming Red Sea views and fresh sea breezes, this rustic breach abode is all about life’s simple pleasures.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my trip to Egypt support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Egypt directly support our foundation partner, Animal Care in Egypt . 

Animal Care in Egypt  

Animal Care in Egypt (ACE) cares for sick or injured working animals, like horses and donkeys, in Upper Egypt. Donations from our trips help ACE provide free veterinary care and fund education programs that empower local people with the knowledge and skills to best look after their animals. 

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

A land of contrasts  encompassing breathtaking desert scenery, the majestic  River Nile  and awe-inspiring ancient world wonders, Egypt attracts millions of visitors each year, offering them a  journey through history .

Egypt Travel Guide

• General information
• What to see
• Hotels & cruises
• What to Eat

Why visit Egypt?

Considered the birthplace of civilization, Egypt is a unique country: a destination full of magic and history  that offers its visitors an unforgettable experience.

Immerse yourself in a  passionate fusion of adventure, culture, and mystery . Get swept away by the  hustle and bustle of Cairo ; lose yourself amongst colossal temples ; scuba dive in the Red Sea ; enjoy the peace of a cruise on the Nile and contemplate the majestic Pyramids , before treating yourself to delicious Egyptian cuisine.

Before traveling

When planning a trip to Egypt, the first decision to make is whether you want to travel there independently or go on an escorted tour . We'll help you decide with this handy guide about the pros and cons of both options.

Worried about traveling to Egypt?

If you'd like to visit Egypt but you're worried about it being dangerous, have a read of our top tips  and  travel safety advice guides.

top activities

Nile Cruise from Luxor to Aswan Embark on a 4-night cruise from Luxor to Aswan , for an enchanting Egyptian adventure. Explore iconic temples and sail through the wonders of the Nile River !

Dinner and Night Show at the Giza Pyramids Enjoy a spectacle filled with light & sound at the Giza pyramids, one of the ancient wonders of the world . Complete your evening with a traditional dinner!

3 Night Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor No trip to Egypt would be complete without a cruise on the Nile, the most memorable experience on a memorable trip. This 3 day cruise goes from Aswan to Luxor.

Pyramids of Giza, Memphis and Saqqara Go back 5,000 years to the land of the pharaohs on this excursion to the Giza pyramids, the Saqqara necropolis and Memphis , once the capital of the country.

Nile Cruise with Dinner and Show Want to try something different? On this cruise down the River Nile , you'll be seduced by the best views of Cairo lit up by night, and enjoy a delicious dinner.

On this tour, we'll visit the iconic pyramids of Giza , the Great Sphinx , the Khan Al-Khalili Market and the Egyptian Museum and the main attractions of Cairo .

Best of Egypt: 8 Day All Inclusive Tour Cairo, Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan... see all the unmissable sights in Egypt in 8 days . The best way to really discover the land of the Pharaohs!

Egypt 11 Day All-Inclusive Tour This 11-day package includes  the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Philae Temple, the Edfu Temple , a cruise on the Nile , and relaxing on the shores of the Red Sea .

Temple of Philae Sound & Light Show Experience the captivating history of Egypt through a unique sound and light show at the Temple of Philae  that will leave you spellbound.

Complete Cairo Tour with Tickets Explore Cairo's historic centre , touring its unmissable locations: the Citadel, Mohamed Ali Mosque, Khan el-Khalili market, and Egyptian Museum.

Excursion to Alexandria The cultural legacy of Alexandria can be seen in all of its monuments and archaeological sites. Delve into the past with this excursion from Cairo .

Enjoy a leisurely felucca ride along the River Nile and discover Aswan's largest island: Elephantine Island . Its landscapes will captivate you!

Complete Guided Tour of Luxor Embark on a fascinating journey through Ancient Egypt with our comprehensive Luxor tour . Discover the rich history of Luxor as we explore its must-see sites.

White Canyon & Ain Khunra 4x4 Tour Discover the breathtaking White Canyon of Sinai with this 4x4 tour and relax by the palm trees at the Ain Khudra Oasis . You'll love it!

Whirling Dervish Show + Dinner Enjoy a traditional show in the Egyptian capital, with this dance of the famous Whirling Dervishes. An unforgettable night, topped off with a delicious dinner.

Excursion to Abu Simbel On this excursion,  visit the astonishing temples of Abu Simbel , the only monuments in Egypt that can hold a candle to the grandiosity of the 3 pyramids of Giza.

Mount Sinai and Saint Catherine's Monastery Experience sunrise from Mount Sinai : one of the most sacred places in Judaism, Christianity and Islam alike and see the oldest Christian Monastery in use.

Abydos and Dendera Temple Excursion On this excursion we'll leave Luxor behind, making our way to Abydos and Dendera, two cities on the banks of the Nile where fascinating temples can be found .

Guided Tour of Luxor and Karnak Temples On this tour, we'll visit two of the most spectacular temples in Egypt, the Luxor Temple, and Karnak , separated by the 3-kilometer long Avenue of the Sphinxes.

2 Day Abu Simbel Excursion See the temples of Abu Simbel on a two-day tour, and be fascinated by the majesty by night. Ancient Egypt in all its splendour!

Luxor Hot Air Balloon Float over the thousand-year-old Luxor temples as the sun rises, so you'll get a bird's eye view of these majestic remains of the time of the pharaohs. 

Red Sea Beginners Scuba Diving On our beginners scuba diving activity, you'll admire the seabed of the Red Sea. Whether you're a beginner or a pro diver already, you'll have a blast!

Giftun Island Snorkelling Be seduced by the exotic Red Sea, contemplating the coral reefs and the colourful fish of Giftun Island, one of the best snorkel spots in Egypt .

Make the most of your time in Egypt, vist one of the most fun areas on the Red Sea on this boat trip to Orange Bay : enjoy snorkelling and other water sports !

Day Trip to the Suez Canal At the crossroads of Europe, Africa and Asia , the famous Suez Canal is one of Egypt's greatest engineering marvels. Discover it with this excursion from Cairo.

Enjoy incredible views of the Red Sea in a unique way: parasailing in Sharm el-Sheikh is one of the most fun water activities in this lively beach area! 

Guided Tour of the Coptic Neighborhood The Coptic neighborhood of Cairo , the Christian part of the city, plays host to a great historic & monumental heritage. Explore it with this guided tour.

Excursion to Cairo and the Pyramids of Giza See the pyramids of Khufu, Khafra & Menkaure - a must-see in Egypt. The archaeological complex at Giza, will surprise you from the moment you arrive!

Guided Tour of Hurghada Feel the history of Hurghada with this guided tour where you'll see monuments such as the spectacular Grand Mosque and the Coptic Church of Hurghada .

Neverland Nights Show Discover one of the most popular shows in the Middle East at the Neverland Nights show in Alf Leila We Leila Palace - an unforgettable evening!

Turtles, sharks, and manta rays await you at  Hurghada Grand Aquarium . Don't miss visiting this exhibition, also known as the  Red Sea in Glass , on your trip!

Swim with Dolphins in Hurghada Swim with friendly dolphins in the warm waters of the Red Sea and ride a banana boat with this boat trip from Hurghada ! You'll have a blast!

Day Trip to the Pyramids of Giza + Egyptian Museum Discover one of the Wonders of the Ancient World on this day trip to the pyramids of Giza by plane . We'll also visit the Egyptian Museum in Cairo !

Desert Safari and Snorkel in the Blue Hole Enjoy an unforgettable safari in the Egyptian desert with this unforgettable experience. We'll also go  snorkelling in the Blue Hole !

Snorkel in the Ras Mohamed National Park Fauna, flora, and spectacular landscapes come together in the Ras Mohamed National Park, one of Egypt's environmental jewels. Go snorkelling off its coast.

Guided Tour of Alexandria Discover the extraordinary historical heritage of this city founded by Alexander the Great , where Greek, Roman, and Egyptian cultures mix.

Historic Tour of the Fatimid Caliphate's Cairo Discover some of the most famous and most incredible places and monuments in Cairo, places that leave the traditional tours behind .

Red Sea Day Trip On this excursion we'll leave the immense Egyptian Capital behind for  Ain Sokhna, a beach town found on the west coast of the Red Sea , near the Suez Canal.

Sinai Desert Trip with Dinner and Show Explore the sands of Sinai with us on this excursion where you can also enjoy an authentic spectacle and Bedouin dinner .

Horseback Riding in Hurghada Join us as we cross exotic beaches and vast deserts on this horseback ride through Hurghada , one of the most popular destinations on the Red Sea coast .

Day Trip to Petra Feel like Indiana Jones in ' The Last Crusade ' with this day trip to Petra , the Jordanian city which was once the capital of the Nabataeans .

Escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life in Hurghada on this tour:  explore the ghost city of Umm el Howeitat on a jeep safari and quad bike tour !

Explore the most fun beaches in Egypt with your family and friends on this  Orange Bay Speedboat Trip . Spend a morning sunbathing and swimming in the Red Sea!

Wadi El Natrun Monasteries and El Alamein Trip Discover the monastic complex of Wadi El Natrun and the location of the famous battle of El Alamein when you take our fantastic trip from Cairo.

Looking for a great day out in Hurghada? Don't miss this  Jungle Aqua Park Trip , the perfect way to cool off and enjoy the fun of a water park!

Nile River Kayaking Tour On this Nile kayaking tour, we'll paddle the sacred river of Ancient Egypt as it passes through Cairo we'll see the old city from a different perspective !

Excursion to the Fayoum Oasis Head south from Cairo and you'll find one of the most incredible natural spaces in Egypt: the Fayoum Oasis . Discover where history and nature meet.

Desert Safari and Bedouin Dinner Exploring the beautiful Egyptian scenery on a 4x4 vehicle with this Desert Safari and Bedouin Dinner. You'll have the chance to sample a traditional dinner.

Glass Bottomed Boat Tour Admire the wonders of the submarine depths on this glass bottomed boat tour . We'll sail the waters of the Red Sea in search of incredible marine wildlife.

Nile Cruise A cruise on the Nile is something no visitor to Egypt should miss. Experience the river that gave life to the Egyptian Empire from the deck of a felucca boat.

Karnak Temple Light Show ​Embark on a journey to the past sure to leave you gobsmacked , with this light and sound show projected onto the Karnak temple.

Day Trip to Abu Simbel by Plane Ramses II left behind one of Egypt's great monumental complexes for posterity: the temples of Abu Simbel . Decode their secrets on this excursion. 

Ancient Egypt Nile Tour Join us on a boat tour along the legendary Nile River , exploring the Valley of the Princes , Kitchener Island, and Sehel Island, home to the  Famine Stela .

Nubian Village Day Trip Cross the River Nile on a traditional felucca, to discover the most authentic village in Egypt , Gharb Soheil, where you can see the daily life of the Nubians .

Discover the natural landscapes around Hurghada in the most fun way: explore the desert on this  quad bike and dune buggy safari ​! What are you waiting for?

Looking for adrenaline-inducing water sports? Experience the Red Sea in a whole new way enjoying this  flyboarding activity in Hurghada !

Grand Egyptian Museum Tour If you're passionate about the Pharaonic culture , then you can't miss this tour of the Grand Egyptian Museum . You'll have a blast!

Sharm El-Naga Snorkel Trip Spend a day making the most of Egypt's beautiful beaches with this Sharm El-Naga Snorkel Trip from Hurghada . Discover the marine wildlife of the Red Sea! 

Spend an unforgettable day in one of the most famous bays on Giftun Island. Snorkel, enjoy a banana boat ride and swim among coral reefs on Paradise Island .

See the Red Sea from a unique perspective with this  parasailing experience in Hurghada . Enjoy the adrenaline rush of flying over its crystal-clear waters!

On this guided tour of the Temple of Karnak , we'll explore this sanctuary dedicated to Amun , which was the main center of worship in Ancient Egypt .

Spend a day feeling like a pirate on this cruise in Orange Bay  from Hurghada. Sail the waters of the Red Sea, snorkel, and visit a paradise beach.

Night Tour of Sharm El-Sheikh On this night tour of Sharm El-Sheikh, you'll  discover the magic of this beautiful Egyptian city located between the Sinai Peninsula desert and the Red Sea .

Sunset Felucca Trip to Banana Island On this excursion from Luxor , we'll enjoy a felucca ride down the Nile River towards Banana Island , where we'll explore the island's many fruit plantations!

On this tour of Luxor , we'll explore the old capital of ancient Egypt aboard a horse-drawn carriage , one of the typical means of transportation in the country!

Cruise and Snorkelling on Tiran Island Fancy a dip in the warm waters of the Red Sea? Try snorkelling off the wild island of Tiran , and enjoy a unique experience in an Egyptian diving paradise.

On this submarine tour in Hurghada, we'll enjoy the depths of the Red Sea . The coastline of this Egyptian city is home to a rich variety of fish and reefs.

Valley of the Nobles, Medinet Habu and Deir el-Medina Discover some of the best conserved funeral monuments of the New Kingdom on this tour, visiting the burial site of Ramses III and the necropolis.

Menia 2 Day Tour Become and Egyptologist for a day as you discover all the ancient treasures of the city of Menia on this fantastic 2-day tour from Cairo !

Luxor Museum and Museum of Mummification Guided Tour On this tour, we'll visit the Luxor Museum & the Museum of Mummification ,   two of the most important and most visited museums in Egypt .

Kalabasha, Beit El-Wali and Kertassi Temples Visit three very different temples : from Roman-era Kalabasha, to rock-carved mausoleums like Beit El-Wali, which dates from the time of Ramses II.

Edfu & Kom Ombo Temples Tour Why was Horus one of the most fascinating Ancient Egyptian deities? Discover sacred secrets on this guided tour of the temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo .

Private Tour to Luxor by Plane Join us on a  private tour from Sharm El Sheikh to Luxor , complete with airfare and entrance fees to the Valley of the Kings , Karnak , and Hatshepsut temples .

Breathtaking  landscapes of the Red Sea await on this horseback ride through Sharm el-Sheikh . We'll stop at a Bedouin camp for tea in the middle of the desert .

Night Tour of Al-Azhar Park & Dinner Discover one of the 60 largest parks in the world on this night tour of Al-Azhar Park and enjoy a delicious Egyptian dinner!

4-Day Private Trip to the White Desert Embark on a  4-day private tour , leaving the bustling city of Cairo to immerse yourself in the wonders of the White Desert , Fayun Oasis , and Bahariya Oasis .

5-Day Siwa Oasis Private Tour Embark on a 5-day private tour from Cairo and travel into the desert to see a unique part of Egypt . The Siwa Oasis, Shali, ancient towns, and Temples await us!

White Desert & Bahariya Oasis Private Day Trip On this private day trip to the White Desert and Bahariya Oasis from Cairo, we'll see stunning limestone formations and much more!

Utopia Island Excursion Crystalline waters, golden beaches, coral reefs, exotic fish... delight your senses with a unique experience, on this excursion to Utopia Island on the Red Sea.

Sinbad Aqua Park Excursion Toboggans, water attractions and endless surprises are waiting for you at the thrilling Sinbad Water Park ! It's fun for all the family.

Cairo Food Tour Dive into the vibrant streets of Cairo and uncover the rich flavors of the Egyptian capital  on this food tour that will tantalize your taste buds.

Desert Quad Tour + Bedouin Dinner Discover the magical Egyptian desert by quad bike with this Desert Quad Tour + Bedouin Dinner. Enjoy an unforgettable and traditional experience.

Looking to explore the party scene in Cairo ? Look no further than this pub crawl tour through the Egyptian capital , where you can meet new people and have fun!

Red Sea 8-Day All-Inclusive Tour From exploring the Egyptian desert to snorkelling in the Red Sea : make the most of your trip to Hurghada on this all-inclusive 8-day tour package.

El Gouna Day Trip On our unforgettable El Gouna Day Trip from Hurghada , we'll explore the Venice of Egypt. Get ready to see dolphins, go banana boating, and snorkel!

Disconnect from the world and forget the stresses of everyday life on a trip to the  Turkish Bath in Hurghada . Enjoying a massage at a hammam  is a must-do!

On this quad tour around the pyramids of Giza, we'll discover one of the most remarkable places in the world . Ready to speed through the desert?

White Desert & Bahariya Oasis 2 or 3-Day Private Tour On this private 2 or 3-day tour of the White Desert and the Bahariya Oasis , you'll witness the stunning Egyptian landscapes accompanied by a tour guide.

Aswan Dam, Philae Temple, and The Unfinished Obelisk On this tour, we'll see the greatness of humankind's achievements across history : the beautiful Philae temple, the Unfinished Obelisk, and the Aswan Dam.

Edfu & Kom Ombo Day Trip Intricately carved reliefs, mummified crocodiles and a unique double sanctuary: discover the Ancient Egyptian temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo .

Sinai Desert Quad bike Tour Discover the reds, purples, oranges and ochres at sunrise and sunset in the Egyptian desert . Head straight for adventure with this quad bike excursion!

Valley of the Kings and Queens, Colossus and Hatshepsut Tour On this excursion we'll visit the most famous necropolis in ancient Thebes, where you can find the tombs of pharaohs such as Tutankhamun, Ramses II and Set I

Night tour of Cairo with Dinner Explore the Khan el-Khalili market and the city's most charming streets on this night tour, finishing with dinner in a traditional restaurant.

Luxor Tour & Valley of the Kings and Queens The wonders   of Ancient Egypt await you on this tour to Luxor . Plus, complete the experience with a visit to the Valley of the Kings and Queens .

If you'd like to meet some of the friendlist residents of the Red Sea, you'll love our  Abu Dabbab National Park Tour  from Hurghada.

Day Trip to Petra by Plane Travel to Jordan by plane, and discover the remains of Petra, the ancient capital of the Nabataeans , along with the mysteries of this architectural jewel.

Egypt Tour Package: 15 Days All-Inclusive Embark on a 15-day all-inclusive tour exploring bucket-list Egyptian sights , from Cairo to the Red Sea paradise of Hurghada , with this Egypt Tour Package .

Egypt + Lake Nasser Tour Package: 11 Days Enjoy a cruise on the Nile and Lake Nasser with this all-inclusive  Egypt + Lake Nasser Tour Package lasting 11 Days. Visit the Giza pyramids and Luxor Temples.

5-Day Cruise on Lake Nasser Make the most of your time in Egypt visiting its spectacular ancient temples on this  five day cruise on Lake Nasser ​from Aswan .

4-Day Lake Nasser Cruise Experience the magic of a 4-day cruise on Lake Nasser with everything included, the perfect way to immerse yourself in the treasures of Ancient Egypt .

The best Egypt travel guide

This travel guide explains what others don't. Learn everything you could possibly need for your trip to Egypt : if it's safe, how to haggle, and how much you should pay for things, amongst much more. The guide is written simply - by travelers, for travelers .

The information and practical data found in this guide are correct as of  January 2023 . If you find any errors or see anything we need to change, please contact us .

Our travel guides

• top attractions
• where to stay
• and much more

Swim in Stunning Shades of Blue

Explore Unforgettable Landscapes

Relive History

Please take a moment to evaluate your visit

Where to Go

Pick your destination and start your Egypt experience now

The Red Sea

Deserts & Oases

Don't Miss

SAIL TO EGYPT

Hidden Gems

Luxor Temple at night, statues cast their mysterious shadows.

Luxor Temple at night

Eel Garden, Dahab, an underwater garden of eels and pufferfish

Blue Lagoon, Abu Galum, a global kitesurfing spot.

The Blue Lagoon

Colored Canyon, Nuweiba, a natural work of art on limestone walls.

The Colored Canyon

Experience what Egypt has to offer

SUN & SEA

ARCHEOLOGICAL SITES

SPIRITUAL EGYPT

CRUISING & SAILING

ADVENTURE & OUTDOOR

ECOTOURISM & NATURE

HEALTH & WELLNESS

ARTS & CONTEMPORARY CULTURE

Insider picks.

Grab a plate of koshary, one of Egypt’s many vegan-friendly national dishes.

Indulge in a traditional Egyptian country breakfast of feteer (flaky layered pastry) in Fayoum.

Enjoy unforgettable views of the Pyramids Plateau and other ancient monuments on horseback.

Explore villages near the archaeological sites of Giza for handmade artisanal crafts.

GOOD TO KNOW

Health Safety

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Egypt Travel Guide

Sail the Nile River and discover the land of mysteries. Pyramids, ancient temples, and artifacts.

Best time to visit Egypt

Best places to visit in egypt, egypt travel guide: best places to visit, 7 best things to do in cairo, egypt, visit the colorful nubian villages in egypt, 7 best things to do in luxor, egypt, map of egypt, weather in egypt.

Egypt’s weather is dry year-round, seeing very little rain. Summers are intense, experiencing high temperatures that can reach 40°C. Visiting between October and April is much more bearable, with comfortable temperatures making it perfect for exploring.

How to get a visa for Egypt

Best travel insurances.

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find Hostels via Hostelworld
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Egypt via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via Viator
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go
• Get a Visa via iVisa
• How to pack light for your trip
• How to plan your trip our tips

Why is Egypt worth visiting?

Egypt is a living history book. Wander the ancient temples and the world-famous pyramids, explore beautiful landscapes and colorful villages, or relax on golden beaches and dive into the vibrant waters of the Red Sea; Egypt is full of wonders.

Is Egypt cheap to visit?

Egypt is a budget-friendly treasure trove! While luxury experiences are available, with hostels starting from $10 per night and meals for just $4, it’s easy to experience the country’s incredible sights without breaking the bank.

Can I drink tap water in Egypt?

It’s recommended to steer clear of tap water throughout Egypt. Stay refreshed by bringing a reusable water bottle, refilling at your hotel and restaurants with filtered water, or getting an in-built filter system.

Do I need a visa for traveling in Egypt?

Nearly all countries require a visa to enter Egypt. Thankfully, getting a single entry visa (valid for a maximum of 30 days) is a relatively simple process, either purchasing it online, at the Egyptian embassy, or on arrival.

Wha​​t language do they speak in Egypt?

Arabic is the official language spoken in Egypt, with different dialects depending on the region. The majority of the population can also speak English, so you’ll have no problem connecting with locals as you travel around Egypt.

Do I need travel insurance for Egypt?

Travel insurance protects you wherever you go. From unexpected medical emergencies to lost luggage, ensuring your holiday in Egypt is worry-free.

Is Egypt safe?

Egypt is a relatively safe place for travelers. Crime rates are low, but expect scam artists and pickpocketers in tourist hotspots. Staying cautious means you can explore this mysterious country worry-free.

What power plug type does Egypt have?

Type C and F are the two types of plugs used in Egypt. They have two round pins, but type F also has two earth clips on the side. Purchasing an international plug adapter ensures you’ll always have the correct plug type, keeping you connected as you explore ancient wonders.

Why do people love Egypt?

Egypt is a country steeped in history and cultural treasures, enticing travelers from all over the world. With the mystical allure of the pyramids and temples, passion from the locals, and the enticing Red Sea, Egypt is a unique place that captivates the hearts of many. 

Travel to Egypt 

A destination full of mysteries, Egypt feels like stepping back in time. From the iconic Pyramids of Giza to the bustling markets of Cairo , Egypt is a treasure trove of history and adventure. It is a place where landscapes vary, home to bustling cities, colorful villages, crystal clear salt lakes, vast deserts full of artifacts and rock formations, tranquil rivers, and magnificent coastlines with bright blue sea. A vacation in Egypt offers endless wonders to see! 

How to plan your trip to Egypt

Due to being a time-consuming destination to travel around, we’d recommend following our 10-day Egypt travel guide to visit some of the best places in Egypt without feeling rushed. Spend your days getting lost in the chaotic city of Cairo , wandering around the world’s largest open-air museum in Luxor , sailing down the Nile to Aswan, taking in the incredible sight that is Abu Simbel, and strolling the colorful Nubian village . End your trip by relaxing and snorkeling at the chilled backpacker town of Dahab on the Red Sea. 

Tip: Travel in Egypt can be a little hectic, so joining a tour can be a great way to see the country. Find the best tours . 

Egypt is stunning year-round, seeing limited rainfall and beautiful sunny days. With varying temperatures throughout the year, choosing the best time to visit Egypt depends on your preferences. 

Summer: The summer months in Egypt can get extremely hot, making exploring all the incredible sights a little unbearable. But if you’re planning to bask in the sun at one of the beach towns or looking for the best chance to spot hammerhead sharks and dolphins during your diving adventures, this may be the perfect time to visit. 

Winter: From October until April, the weather in Egypt is at its best. The temperature in the daytime is much more comfortable, and nights are cool and refreshing, perfect for backpacking around the beautiful country and visiting the historic desert sites. December and January can be very busy, so it’s worth avoiding these months.

Coastlines and beaches in Egypt

Beyond the iconic temples and pyramids, Egypt boasts stunning coastlines ready for sun-seekers and ocean enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for serenity or adventure, Egypt beaches are a haven for all. 

Along Egypt’s eastern coast, the Red Sea has some of the world’s most spectacular underwater landscapes, with unspoiled coral reefs teeming with marine life. From the lively beach town of Sharm El Sheikh, ideal for those who prefer staying in resorts, to the chilled, laid-back charm of Dahab, home to the Blue Hole, the Red Sea is one of the best places to visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers, catering to every type of traveler. 

For those looking for pristine white sand beaches with historic charm, the Mediterranean Sea on Egypt’s northern coastline is the place to go. The towns of Marsa Matruh and El Alamein not only have breathtaking white sand beaches and lagoons but also show remnants from WWII. 

Egypt’s coastlines are vibrant and full of life, offering the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re diving into the colorful underwater world of the Red Sea or strolling along the shores of the Mediterranean, Egypt’s beaches are nothing short of spectacular! 

Food, culture and religion in Egypt:

Hearing the peaceful calls to prayer, experiencing the aromas wafting through the bustling souks, and exploring the ancient temples, Egypt is a land where history and culture combine, creating something magical. 

Egyptian cuisine is simple and full of spices, heavily influenced by Middle Eastern and African dishes and incorporating Mediterranean flavors, with unique dishes like Koshari, Egypt’s national dish (a mix of fried rice, pasta, and lentils topped with spicy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions), or the ancient dish of Ful Medames, made with slow-coked fava beans, cumin, and olive oil. With the majority of the population following the Islamic faith, food is a social occasion traditionally consisting of many dishes to enjoy. 

Beyond the cuisine, Egypt’s culture is shaped by its long history and religious influences. From magnificent temples and lively souks to the warmth of the locals eager to share stories and family honor, you’ll experience a deeper understanding of the cultural richness that defines Egypt as you travel through the bustling streets and historic sites.

Why you should travel to Egypt:

A journey through Egypt will leave you speechless. Whether you seek adventure in the boundless deserts, relaxation on pristine beaches, or to immerse yourself in ancient history, there are many amazing things to do in Egypt . 

With a sunny climate year-round and the opportunity to travel on any budget, Egypt is an extraordinary destination to explore. Wake up to the birds chirping and the call to prayer as you sail down the Nile, visiting mesmerizing destinations like Aswan and Luxor en route. Head off the beaten track to the breathtaking natural beauty of the salt lakes in Siwa Oasis and the rock formations in the White Desert National Park. Unwind in the many coastal towns full of colorful marine life. Don’t miss this unique and unforgettable destination! 

Safety and travel advice Egypt

When it comes to safety in Egypt , it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest travel advice to ensure you have a fantastic, risk-free adventure. 

Natural Disasters: Natural disasters, like earthquakes and sand storms, are fairly rare in Egypt but can happen. Register your trip with the embassy to receive emergency updates when traveling through Egypt. 

Crime and Safety in Egypt : Petty crime can occur in tourist hotspots, particularly focusing on scamming travelers. For instance, if you’re told there is a shortcut or the entrance you’re heading to is closed, it’s almost certain that isn’t the case, and they’re trying to get some money from you. Downloading offline maps so you always know where you’re heading and keeping your wits about you will prevent these experiences. 

While this shouldn’t deter you from visiting this mysterious landscape, Egypt is at risk of terrorism, so always stay vigilant and follow advice from local authorities. 

Learn more about travel safety .

Traffic: Traffic in Egypt can be hectic, particularly in Cairo, and road conditions can be poor.  It’s worth using taxis, hiring a driver, or joining an organized tour rather than driving yourself while on your vacation in Egypt. 

Travel Insurance: We highly recommend getting travel insurance for your holiday in Egypt . With many outdoor and adventurous activities you can do, like hot air balloon rides, diving, and quad biking, having insurance allows you to enjoy these experiences with full peace of mind. It’ll also cover you if your luggage gets lost or your flights get canceled. 

Find the best travel insurance .

• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 History
• 4.2 Climate
• 4.3.1 Ramadan
• 4.4 Terrain
• 4.5 Spelling
• 4.6 Tourist information
• 5.1.1 Visa on arrival
• 5.2 By plane
• 5.3 By boat
• 6.1 By plane
• 6.2.1 Tickets
• 6.4 By taxi
• 6.6 By metro
• 6.7 By boat
• 7.1 Spectator sports
• 10.1.1 Money exchange
• 10.1.2 ATMs
• 10.1.3 Credit cards
• 10.2 Shopping
• 10.3 Tipping
• 11.1 Hygiene
• 11.2 Local dishes
• 11.3 Exotic fruits
• 12.1.1 Safety of bottled water
• 12.2 Juices and herbal teas
• 12.3 Alcoholic drinks
• 12.4 Restrictions on alcohol
• 16.1 Female travellers
• 16.2 Political unrest
• 16.3 Terrorism
• 16.5 Traffic
• 16.6 Scams and hassle
• 16.7 LGBT travellers
• 16.9 Egyptian dual nationals
• 16.10 Power outage
• 17.1 Healthcare
• 17.2 Fluids
• 17.4 Schistosomiasis
• 17.5 Vaccinations and malaria
• 17.6 General issues
• 18.1 Social customs
• 18.2 Tipping
• 18.3 Greeting people
• 18.4.1.1 Etiquette in the presence of people praying
• 18.4.2 Public displays of affection
• 18.5 Other issues
• 18.6 Sensitive issues
• 20.1 Tourism and locals
• 20.2 Package tours
• 20.3 Eastern Arabic numbers
• 20.4 Laundry
• 20.5 Litter
• 20.6 Tampons
• 20.7 Toilets

Egypt ( Arabic : مصر, màSr ) is known for its world-famous pyramids, mummies, temples, art, churches, mosques, bustling cities, friendly people, and hieroglyphics, Egypt is considered a cradle of civilisation and has one of the longest histories of any country in the world. Egypt may perhaps have the oldest tourist industry in the world; Egypt has been visited by millions of people since ancient times.

There is a lot to do for the foreign traveller in Egypt. Apart from visiting and seeing the ancient temples and artefacts of ancient Egypt, there is also much to see within each city. In fact, each city in Egypt has its own charm of things to see with its own history, culture, activities, and people who often differ in nature from people of other parts of Egypt.

• 30.056111 31.239444 1 Cairo — the capital of Egypt, home to the Egyptian Museum and fabulous Islamic architecture; the pyramids are across the river in Giza .
• 31.2 29.916667 2 Alexandria — Egypt's window on the Mediterranean, with still-palpable glimpses of the past
• 24.088919 32.899731 3 Aswan — a more relaxed option than Luxor, full of amazing sights
• 27.257778 33.811667 4 Hurghada — a town on the Red Sea, filled with all-inclusive resorts and numerous diving options
• 25.696944 32.642222 5 Luxor — gateway to the Valley of the Kings , amongst other fabulous attractions, and hassle capital of Egypt
• 31.25 32.283333 6 Port Said — the centre of the third largest metropolitan area, has a cosmopolitan heritage, home to the Lighthouse of Port Said
• 27.978611 34.393611 7 Sharm el Sheikh — a hugely popular resort town on the Sinai peninsula, with some of the best scuba diving in the world
• 26.1039 34.2811 8 Quseir — a historical town with a old Fort and Down Town at the Red Sea coast, with some of the best diving spots and holiday destination in Egypt

Other destinations

• 28.493056 34.504722 2 Dahab (Arabic: دهب‎) – at Sinai, east of Sharm el Sheikh, a backpacker central, with excellent scuba diving
• 25.718611 32.658611 3 Karnak – scattered temples built with an emphasis on size, an impressive avenue of ram-headed sphinxes runs through the middle
• 29.844722 31.250833 4 Memphis (Arabic: مَنْف‎, Manf ) and 29.871111 31.216389 5 Saqqara (Arabic: سقارة‎) – both filled with relics and ruins of ancient Egypt, they're often combined as a day trip from Cairo
• 29.183333 25.55 6 Siwa (Arabic: واحة سيوة‎, Wāḥat Sīwah ) – a stunning remote oasis near the Libyan border
• 28.564377 33.95243 7 St. Katherine (Arabic: سانت كاترين‎) – home to the oldest continually inhabited monastery, Mount Sinai and Mount Katherine (highest mountain in Egypt) and truly Bedouin culture
• 29.5 34.883333 8 Taba Heights (Arabic: طابا,‎ Ṭāba ) – purpose built resort with views of Israel , Jordan and Saudi Arabia
• 25.740833 32.602222 9 Valley of the Kings (Arabic: وادي الملوك‎, Wādī al Mulūk )

Egypt is a large, transcontinental country spanning North Africa and the Middle East . It is the world's 29th largest country, with a land area of 1,010,408 square kilometres (390,121 sq mi). It is one of Africa's largest countries, one of the most populated countries in the Arab world.

The country is bounded by the Mediterranean and Red Seas (to the north and east respectively) and geographically dominated both by the Nile River and its fertile well-watered valley, and by the Eastern and Western deserts.

The regularity and richness of the annual Nile River flood, coupled with semi-isolation provided by deserts to the east and west, allowed for the development of one of the world's great civilizations. A unified kingdom arose around 3200 BC and a series of dynasties ruled in Egypt for the next three millennia. The last native dynasty fell to the Persians in 341 BC, who in turn were replaced by the Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines. It was the Arabs who introduced Islam and the Arabic language in the 7th century and who ruled for the next six centuries. A local military caste, the Mamluks, took control about 1250 and continued to govern after the conquest of Egypt by the Ottoman Turks in 1517. Following the completion of the Suez Canal in 1869, Egypt became an important world transportation hub, but also fell heavily into debt. Ostensibly to protect its investments, Britain seized control of Egypt's government in 1882, but nominal allegiance to the Ottoman Empire continued until 1914. Egypt gained partial independence from the UK in 1922, and saw fighting during World War II , such as the famous battle at El Alamein . The completion of the Aswan High Dam in 1971 and the resultant Lake Nasser have altered the time-honoured place of the Nile River in agriculture and the ecology of Egypt. A rapidly growing population (the largest in the Arab world), limited arable land, and dependence on the Nile all continue to overtax resources and stress society. The government has struggled to prepare the economy for the 21st century through economic reform and massive investment in communications and physical infrastructure.

Egypt's climate is generally classified as desert. It is an extension of the great Sahara that bands North Africa, and except for the thin strip of watered land along the Nile River, very little could survive there. As the ancient Greek historian Herodotus stated: "Egypt is the gift of the Nile".

Beware that from March till May, sand storms may occur, particularly during daytime. These storms not only make the air sandy and very dry, but also temporarily raise the temperature. Sand storms at other times of the year can still erupt but rarely and in winter, usually they won't raise the temperature.

Generally, the summers are hot, rainless and extremely sunny , but the air can be humid at the coasts and very dry at the south, away of the coasts and away of the Nile Delta. The winters are moderate. November through March are definitely the most comfortable months for travel in Egypt. Only the north coast (stretching from the sea to 50 km southwards) receives a little rain in winter; the rest of Egypt receives negligible or no rain.

Thunderstorms along with heavy rain showers that often last several hours are not uncommon in Alexandria, Marsa Matruh and all other northern coastal areas, and even the Delta. In some years the rainstorms can last for a whole day or so, though the rain tends to be lighter. Hail is also not uncommon, especially out in the desert where the weather is usually colder and allows for soft hail to fall and even frost to form on non-rainy days.

In the Sinai Mountains and also the Red Sea mountains, which stretch along the east side of the country along the shore of the Red Sea, there is generally more rain than the surrounding desert, as rain clouds tend to develop when warm air evaporates and rises as it moves across higher terrain. Floods in these areas are a common weather phenomenon as so much rain can fall in a very short amount of time (often a day or two), with thunder and lightning as well. Because of the desert and lack of abundant vegetation, the water from the rain quickly falls down across the hills and mountains and floods local areas. Every year there are stories in the local newspapers about flash floods in areas of the Sinai and also in Upper Egypt (southern Egypt) such as in Assiut, Luxor , Aswan , and Sohag. These floods, however, only generally happen two or three times a year, and do not happen at all in some years. When they happen, though, it is often in early times of the season such as in September or October, or in late winter such as February. Because of this risk, one should be careful when venturing out into the desert or camping in certain areas, as water can suddenly rush down from the nearby mountains and hills. It can sometimes carry a quite strong current that has been known to break down homes of rural people who build their homes from mud, bricks, and other weak materials. Poor people might drown in the floods, which is strange for a desert country that doesn't receive much precipitation.

Also, in higher elevations such as on top of the Sinai mountains, temperatures can drop much more than the surrounding areas, allowing for snowfall in winter months, since temperatures can drop down to below freezing, as well as formation of frost even in the low lying desert areas where the temperatures are generally several degrees colder than in the cities.

December, January and February are the coldest months of the year. However, winter days of southern places at the Nile Valley are warmer, but their nights are as cool as northern places.

Visitors should be aware that most houses and apartments in Egypt do not have central heating like countries with colder climates, because the main weather concern in Egypt is the heat. Therefore, even though the weather might not be so cold for a westerner, inside the apartment it might be colder at day but the temperature indoors is more stable than outdoors. In Cairo, in indoor buildings without air-conditioning, temperatures are about 15°C (59°F) in the coldest winter days and about 34°C (93°F) in the hottest summer days.

Banks, shops and businesses close for the following Egyptian national holidays (civil and religious), and public transport may run only limited services:

• 7 January (Eastern Orthodox Christmas)
• 25 January (Egyptian Revolution Day)
• 25 April (Sinai Liberation Day)
• 1 May (Labour Day)
• 23 July (July Revolution Day)
• 6 October (Armed Forces Day)
• 1st Shawwal, the 10th Hijri month (Eid al Fitr, "Breakfast Feast")
• 10th Dhu al Hijjah, the 12th Hijri month (Eid al Adha, "Sacrifice Feast")
• Working for shorter day hours for 29 or 30 days of Ramadan

Since Islamic holidays are based on the lunar calendar, their exact dates vary between years

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and the most important month in the Islamic Calendar for Muslims, the majority religion in Egypt. During Ramadan, Muslims abstain from eating, drinking or smoking until after sundown on each day. Although strict adherence to Ramadan is for Muslims only, some Muslims appreciate that non-Muslims do not take meals or smoke in public places. During Ramadan, many restaurants and cafes won't open until after sundown. Public transport is less frequent, shops close earlier before sunset and the pace of life (especially business) is generally slow.

As expected, exactly at sunset minute, the entire country quiets down and busy itself with the main meal of the day (iftar, "breaking-fast") that are almost always done as social events in large groups of friends. Many richer people offer (Tables of the Gracious God موائد الرحمن) in Cairo's streets that cater full-meals for free for the passers-by, the poorer ones or workers who couldn't leave their shifts at the time. Prayers become popular 'social' events that some like to enrich with special food treats before and after. An hour or two later, an astonishing springing to life of the cities takes place. Streets sometimes richly decorated for the whole month have continuous rush hours till very early in the morning. Some shops and cafes make the biggest chunk of their annual profit at this time of year. Costs of advertising on television and radio soars for this period and entertainment performances are at their peak.

Egypt consists of vast desert plateau interrupted by the Nile valley and delta, along with the Sinai peninsula. Portions of the Nile River valley are bounded by steep rocky cliffs, while the banks are relatively flat in other areas, allowing for agricultural production.

There is no standard way of transcribing Arabic words into western script. The main effect on these pages is on place names, and that little word el for "the" - a common prefix - is a good example. Arabic doesn't spell out short vowels so el could also be "al" or "il" (sometimes even "ul"). It doesn't distinguish upper and lower case, and words are run together rather than hyphenated, so el could also be "El", "El-" or "el-". Permute the short vowels and you've got twelve ways to spell a place. And then there are the "sun letters" such as "Sh" which assimilate the "el" when spoken, though the Arabic spelling doesn't alter. Thus "Sharm el-Sheikh" is pronounced "Sharm esh-Sheikh"; western script preserves the "el" in that example but for other towns may follow the pronunciation. The Arabic glottal stop may be transcribed as an apostrophe or omitted. "Q" may be transcribed "Qu" or "K" or "Kh" or not at all, since the Egyptian "koph" is often silent. But after that it gets complicated ....

Individual pages here tend to settle on a particular spelling for consistency, but there's inevitable variation on other pages and other sources such as maps.

Tourist information

• Egypt Travel website

Egypt's economy depends a great deal on tourism; therefore, most people can enter the country without a visa. Unlike neighbouring Libya and Sudan, Egypt allows Israeli citizens to visit Egypt.

As a major tourist destination whose economy is dependent upon tourist money, Egypt is relatively easy to enter and obtain visas for. There are three types of Egyptian visa:

• Tourist Visa — usually valid for 3 months or less and granted on either a single or multiple entry basis
• Entry Visa — required for any foreigner arriving in Egypt for purposes other than tourism, e.g. work or study. The possession of a valid Entry Visa is needed to complete the residence procedure in Egypt.
• Transit Visa — rarely needed and only for certain nationalities

Entry visas may be obtained from Egyptian diplomatic and consular missions abroad or from the Entry Visa Department at the Travel Documents, Immigration and Nationality Administration (TDINA). Non-Egyptians are required to have a valid passport.

Visa on arrival is available for many western countries; see below. However, citizens of the following countries are required to have a visa before arriving , which must be applied for through an Egyptian consulate or embassy outside of Egypt:

• Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belize, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Canada, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, China PR, Comoros, R Congo, DR Congo, Côte d'Ivoire, Djibouti, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guatemala, Guinea-Bissau, Honduras, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Kenya, DPR Korea, R Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Philippines, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Turkey (except those aged below 20 and above 45), Turkmenistan, Uganda, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Visitors entering Egypt at the overland border crossing at Taba or at Sharm el Sheikh airport can be exempted from a visa and granted a free fourteen day entry visa to visit the Aqaba coast of the Sinai peninsula, including Sharm el Sheikh, Dahab and St. Catherine's Monastery. Visitors wishing to leave the Sinai peninsula and to visit Cairo and other Egyptian cities are required to hold full Egyptian visas. These are not issued at the Taba border crossing and must be acquired in advance either in the country of residence, at the Egyptian consulate in Eilat or at the airport upon arrival. Visitors on organized tours can often have their visas issued at the border, but should verify in advance with their travel agent or tour operator that this option is available. Those in possession of a residence permit are not required to obtain an entry visa if they leave the country and return to it within the validity of their residence permit or within six months, whichever period is less.

Tourists visiting Sharm el Sheikh who are planning to undertake scuba diving outside local areas (i.e. Ras Mohammed) must obtain the tourist visa in order to leave the Sharm el Sheikh area. Officials on boats may check dive boats whilst on the waters so you are advised to obtain the visa beforehand: there may be fines involved for you and the boat captain if you are caught without the appropriate visa. Most reputable dive centres will ask to see your visa before allowing you on trips.

Egypt has peaceful relations with Israel , but the degree of friendliness varies, and with it, the direct connections between the two countries. A direct air service between Cairo and Tel Aviv is operated by EgyptAir under the guise of "Air Sinai". Bus service seems to continue, as described below. In any case, verify the situation as you plan, and again at the last minute.

Visa on arrival

Citizens of Bahrain, Guinea, South Korea, Libya, Oman, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Yemen receive a 3-month visa on arrival. Citizens of Kuwait can obtain 6-month Residence Permit upon arrival. China and Malaysian citizens receive a 15-day visa on arrival. Citizens of China (only Hong Kong and Macau SAR) may have a 30-day visit without visa.

Citizens of UK, EU, Australia, Croatia, Georgia, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Macedonia, Republic of Korea, Russian Federation, Serbia, Ukraine and United States may also obtain a visa on arrival at major points of entry.

Since 1 October 2023 Canadian citizens will no longer be able to obtain a visa upon arrival in Egypt.

The visa on arrival is US$25 for everyone. You will not necessarily need US dollars, most major currencies, down to small notes ($1, €5, £5), are accepted and exchanged by the visa fee collecting officer at a more than fair rate. The officer will also put the visa fee sticker into your passport, with which you will have to pass through passport control. The sticker is quite loose: if you feel like it is at the wrong location or taking too much space, you can move it to a more convenient location, or hide a stamp with it that you might want to conceal for certain reasons .

Egypt has several international airports:

Ferries run regularly from Aqaba across to Nuweiba on the Sinai peninsula, bypassing Israel and the sometimes complicated border arrangements. Generally there is no visa fee for entering Jordan through Aqaba since it is a part of the free trade zone. The line to Nuweiba is operated by AB Maritime . It is also possible to travel from Saudi Arabia to several Red Sea coast ports.

A weekly ferry also runs between Wadi Halfa , Sudan and Aswan , connecting with the train from Khartoum .

There are no scheduled passenger ferries between Europe and Egypt. For those intent to recreate the classical way of reaching Egypt, freighter travel remains an option.

Travelling to Egypt by bus is a cheaper option than short-haul flights from neighbouring countries. A trip between Aqaba in Jordan and Cairo costs as little as US$55 (Dec 2022, including the departure taxes of Jordan and Israel as well as entry tax of Egypt). From Eilat in Israel it's about US$40 (Dec 2022, including the Israel departure tax and Egypt entry tax). Foreigners entering Egypt by bus must pay a LE 63 tax. The downside, of course, is that it's time consuming and, even if buses nowadays have plush seats and air conditioning, quite uncomfortable as you're confined to a seat for 7–10 hr from Taba to Cairo. To avoid that you can have a stopover of one or more nights in Sharm El Sheik.

Israel is the most popular country to travel by bus from and travellers can easily access Egypt by bus from Jerusalem and Tel Aviv . However, there are no cross-border services. The most common route is to take a bus to Eilat where you can cross over the border into Taba and take a bus to Cairo or into the Sinai. Generally, only two or three buses leave from Taba to the various destinations each day; one morning and one afternoon service, with an early evening departure from time to time. Plan the arrival in Eilat accordingly, and be prepared to spend the night in either Eilat or Taba if arriving late. As usual, crossing into Israel by bus means getting your passport stamped and many Arab countries denying you entry (see Visa trouble ).

Other routes to Cairo include: direct services from Amman twice a week by the Jordanian state bus company, JETT , daily services by SAPTCO from Dammam , Jeddah and Riyadh in Saudi Arabia and buses from Benghazi , although those can be suspended due to the fluid security situation there. Journey times for all these services are between 25 and 40 hours.

Overland journeys between cities in Egypt are often long, hot, bumpy, dusty, and not altogether safe. There is a good domestic air network, and advance fares are not expensive, so flying internally is often a good option. Obvious exceptions are Cairo–Alexandria and Luxor–Aswan; as these distances are only 220 km, ground transport will be quicker, and you'd only fly between them to connect onto another domestic or international flight.

Cairo has direct flights to every other major city, including Luxor , Aswan , Abu Simbel , Hurghada , Sharm el-Sheikh , Alexandria , Marsa Matruh , Marsa Alam and Kharga oasis. These run at least daily, and the main cities have several flights a day. There are also daily flights directly between Alexandria, Aswan, Luxor, Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh.

Most flights are operated by the national carrier, EgyptAir . This is the first place to go looking. Some internet booking sites (e.g. Expedia) don't offer their flights – it'll appear as if you need to fly via Istanbul or similar nonsense. Egyptair doesn't do phone sales, but they have lots of booking offices in the centres (your hotel can point these out), which saves you if you don't have internet access.

There are rival airlines such as Nile Air and Al Masria . Nile Air has flights from Cairo and Alexandria. Al Masria flies to Cairo from Hurghada, and Sharm El Sheikh. Foreign package airlines (e.g. TUI) sometimes fly an internal route, but that's to move their clients around on multi-centre holidays, and they're not available to book as point-to-point domestic flights.

Egypt's mainline railway follows the Nile: from Aswan north through Luxor to Cairo and Alexandria. Branch lines fan out across the Nile delta, as far east as Suez and Port Said, and west along the coast through El Alamein as far as Mersa Matruh. Train is an excellent way to travel between Cairo and Alexandria, and between Luxor and Aswan, with frequent daytime services taking 2–3 hrs. Trains also run between Cairo and Luxor and Aswan, both daytime and overnight. There are no trains to the Red Sea resorts or to Siwa oasis.

Almost all trains are run by the state-owned company Egyptian National Railways (ENR) [dead link] (the exception is the Cairo-Luxor-Aswan sleeper run by Watania, described below). Express trains have air-conditioned classes called AC1 and AC2 (1st and 2nd class). They are clean and comfortable. For ordinary trains the classes AC1 and AC2 are likewise available, with A/C sometimes in AC1, but never in AC2. Fares are very cheap by Western standards, even the priciest Cairo-Alexandria single ticket is only about LE51 (Oct 2018). It is half that for slower trains, and half again for AC2, respectively. Punctuality could be described as "not bad for Egypt": trains generally start out from their first station on time but pick up delays along the way. Delays of up to an hour are not uncommon, especially between Cairo and Luxor. So, if your train is coming from somewhere else, do not expect it to be on time.

In addition, local 3rd class trains are a great way to explore attractions in the surrounding area. They can also be used for longer distances if you want to connect with the locals and are on a tight budget. 3rd class sounds worse than it actually is—the chairs are wooden but the interior is sometimes painted well. They are dirt cheap, LE1.50-4 for 50 km, but make sure you have small notes or coins available—even a LE5 note can be a problem. The local train schedule is not available online, so you need to make enquiries at the station. Be insistent, they might just tell you the regular train schedule that you already know from the ENR website, expecting that you would not want to use anything beyond AC2 or even beyond AC1. Also, information can sometimes be very hard to confirm; which time, which platform, which stops. It is best to ask several people/officers and find out what they say. Or have a look at the station departure board a day or so before your intended travel, chances are trains run same time every day. Some local trains can get quite full, but mostly only the ones that travel far.

Travel by foreigners can be subject to security restrictions, but (in early 2018) there were no genuine restrictions. If you get told that a train is not running, it might simply be due to the expectation, e.g. by station personal, or that it cannot be booked online, e.g. by a travel clerk.

The best way to buy tickets for express trains is online, in advance, from ENR [dead link] . This incurs no add-on charges, guarantees your seat and will save much hassle at stations or booking offices. The site content is in English and Arabic. First register with the site, then purchase is clunky but straightforward. Tickets go on sale 2 weeks ahead of departure - they are usually still available on the day of departure, but trains can book out at busy times. The site will only book expresses, i.e. 1st and 2nd class, and only for the main cities. You will need to file passport details for all the travellers in your group. The ENR site accepts payment from most major credit and debit cards. If you cannot print your ticket immediately, be sure to record the confirmation number so you can retrieve it later - ENR does not send you email confirmation. (Landscape printing is best, as portrait may crop the confirmation number.) Try to take a screenshot of your ticket as soon as possible -- the website is known to try to refresh itself constantly, and will lose your ticket if it does so. The main details of the confirmation are in English, amid a welter of Arabic small print. Other websites, and travel agents offices, will simply sell you what is available on ENR or Watania and will charge extra for doing so.

Otherwise, you can queue at the station—make sure you are aiming for the correct window, and sort your money first to avoid exposing wallet and passport. Or you can board without a ticket and pay the conductor on the train. There is a surcharge of LE6 for this, and platform security do not seem to mind if you do not have a ticket, even for expresses that are supposedly reservation-only.

The self-service ticket machines at the main stations offer service in Arabic and English. If the machine tells you that the "Journey [is] unavailable", try at the ticket window - you may still get tickets there (Oct 2018).

Buy tickets in advance, since at peak travel times, trains may be fully booked, especially the inexpensive ones. Except during busy holiday periods, it's not normally difficult to purchase tickets on the day of travel or the day before. To avoid complications, book as far ahead as possible.

The sleeper service Cairo-Luxor-Aswan is run by Watania , a private company. Buy tickets online from them, as ENR do not show those services on their timetable and do not sell tickets.

Egypt has an extensive long-distance bus network, operated mostly by government-owned companies. Among the largest companies are Blue Bus Bedouin Bus , Pullman , West Delta , Golden Arrow , Super Jet , East Delta [dead link] , El Gouna , Go Bus and Upper Egypt Bus Co . Popular routes are operated by more than one company. Some bus companies allow you to book seats in advance; some sell spots based upon availability of seats. Online ticketing are available via some companies too.

Beware buying tickets from bus touts on the street or outside your hotel. The smaller companies are sometimes unlicensed and can cut corners with safety. There have been eight serious bus crashes involving foreign nationals since January 2006, in which over 100 people have been killed. If you are a passenger in a vehicle that is travelling at an unsafe speed you should firmly instruct the driver to slow down.

Road accidents are very common in Egypt, mainly due to poor roads, dangerous driving and non-enforcement of traffic laws. Police estimate that road accidents kill over 6,000 people in Egypt each year. This is twice the UK figure. Other estimates put the figure far higher.

In bigger cities, especially in Cairo, main streets often become congested at peak times and that may double the time needed to reach where you want to go.

In the cities, taxis are a cheap and convenient way of getting around. Although generally safe, taxis drive as erratically as all the other drivers, especially in Cairo, and there are sometimes fake taxis travel around. Make sure they have official markings on the dashboard or elsewhere; the taxis are always painted in special colours to identify them, as the taxi mark on top of the car. In Cairo the taxis are all white (rarely with advertisement on sides), those ones are preferable as they have a digital counter to tell you how much to pay and you shouldn't pay more than what the meter tells you, you can tell the driver in advance that you would only pay what the meter displays. Other older taxis are black and white, there are also the rarer Cairo cabs, all in yellow, also with the meter. In Luxor they are blue and white, and in Alexandria yellow and black. In Cairo and Luxor it is often much more interesting to use the taxis and a good guidebook instead of travelling around in a tour bus.

Seemingly, Cairo is alone in Egypt with having a sizeable population of modern metered cabs. Since Jan 2009, in Sharm El Sheikh all airport taxis have meters fitted and they must be used. Generally the best way is to ask at your hotel or someone you know from Egypt for the prices from point-to-point. You could also ask a pedestrian or policemen for the correct price. The best way to hire a taxi is to stand on the side of the road and put out a hand. You will have no trouble attracting a taxi, especially if you are obviously a Westerner. It is generally advisable to take white taxis that use the meter because the black and white taxis usually involve haggling at the end of the ride, some white taxi drivers don't start the meter unless you ask them to, if they say the meter is broken it's better to ask the driver to drop you off before you get far. It's important to have some change with you (a couple of fives and a ten) because some drivers say that they don't have change to drive off with the rest of your money.

If riding a black and white taxi negotiate a price and destination before getting into the car. At the end of the journey, step out of the car and make sure you have everything with you before giving the driver the payment. If the driver shouts, it's probably OK, but if he steps out of the car you almost certainly paid too little. Prices can be highly variable but examples are LE20 from central Cairo to Giza, LE10 for a trip inside central Cairo and LE5 for a short hop inside the city. Locals pay less than these prices for taxis which don't have the meters; the local price in a taxi from Giza or Central Cairo to the airport is LE25-30. Do not be tempted to give them more because of the economic situation; otherwise, ripping off foreigners will become more common and doing so generally tends to add to inflation. The prices listed here are already slightly inflated to the level expected from tourists, not what Egyptians would normally pay. You can also hire taxis for whole days, for LE100-200 if going on longer excursions such as to Saqqara and Dashur from Cairo. Inside the city they are also more than happy to wait for you (often for a small extra charge, but ask the driver), even if you will be wandering around for a few hours.

Taxi drivers often speak enough English to negotiate price and destination, but only rarely more. Some speak more or less fluently and they will double as guides, announcing important places when you drive by them, but they can be hard to find. The drivers often expect to be paid a little extra for that; however, do not feel the need to pay for services that you have not asked for. If you find a good English-speaking driver, you may want to ask him for a card or a phone number, because they can often be available at any time and you will have a more reliable travel experience.

A new line of taxis owned by private companies has been introduced in Cairo. They are all clean and air-conditioned. The drivers are formally dressed and can converse in at least one foreign language, usually English. These taxis stand out because of their bright yellow colour. They can be hailed on the street if they are free or hired from one of their stops (including one in Tahrir square in the city centre). These new taxis use current meters which count by the kilometre, which starts from LE2.50. In general, they are marginally more expensive than the normal taxis; you can call 16516, two hours in advance, in Cairo to hire a taxi.

If you do not want to be bothered by police convoys, tell the police at check points that you work in Egypt. They will demand your passport but actually most cannot read Roman letters and identify anything. Police convoys are more a psychological sooth for tourists instead of real protection—it draws more attention than when you use a local taxi.

Ride-hailing services — Careem and Uber — are available in Cairo, Alexandria and Hurghada, and expanding elsewhere. These provide travellers an easy alternative to taxis as the app translates destinations from English to Arabic, and fares are fixed. They are widely used by Egyptians.

Fuel is inexpensive in Egypt, prices are heavily subsidized: LE6.75 per litre in December 2019. If you decide to rent a car, you will not add significantly to the cost through fuel. Car rental sites require you to be at least 21 years old. Driving in Egypt is not for the faint of heart and can be downright dangerous; unless you really need this option it is just as easy and probably cheaper to travel by taxis and around the country by air, train or bus. As you will see shortly after arrival, obedience of traffic laws is low and there are very few signs indicating road rules. Expect to see other vehicles driving against the flow on motorways, no lane discipline and many death defying manoeuvres. It is as if most drivers are very drunk (they are not). You might also become a target for Egyptian police seeking a bribe, who will pick some trivial offence you have committed and which in reality you could not have avoided. Egypt and Cairo in particular have a reputation for the worst driving in the world (it is not the worst, but is still very bad). Most Egyptian roads have unmarked speed humps. These humps are not small and on some major roads can be too large for low clearance vehicles to get over without damage.

Also read the note at the end of the last taxi chapter on pretending to be working in Egypt to avoid travelling in convoys.

Three metro lines serve Greater Cairo , see Cairo#Get around .

The ferry across the Red Sea between Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh was suspended in 2010, and no re-start is in sight.

Highlights of any visit to Egypt include famous archaeological sites from both Lower (North) and Upper (South) Egypt. The most famous are:

Greater Cairo :

• Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
• Egyptian Museum
• Red, Bent and Black Pyramids of Dahshur , neglected but a great alternative to Giza with the oldest known pyramid
• Citadel of Salah El Din and Mosque of Mohamed Ali
• Khan al Khalili bazaar and al Hussein Mosque
• Pyramids and temples of Saqqara , just north of Dahshur
• Memphis , with some relics of ancient Egypt - including a huge statue of Ramesses II, evoking the image which inspired Percy Bysshe Shelley's poem Ozymandias

Alexandria is the country's main summer attraction for Egyptians escaping the summer heat and looking for a place to spend vacation. The city has several Roman and Greek sights:

• the stunning new Bibliotheca Alexandrina
• Qa'edbay's Castle
• Colonial and Roman buildings
• Qasr El Montaza (El Montaza Palace),

Aswan is a great alternative over the hassling and overrated Luxor. Here, you can equally see impressive temples and ancient monuments, but at the same time relax and enjoy the authentic and large souq, and:

• Tombs of Nobles, with a great view of Aswan and some fine paintings inside the tombs.
• Abu Simbel , near the border with Sudan at Lake Nasser, one of the most impressive sights in Egypt besides the pyramids.
• Geziret El Nabatat (The Island of Plants), an island in the Nile River of Aswan which was planted by rare species of plants, trees and flowers.
• Perhaps the most popular activity in Luxor and Aswan is to do the Nile Cruise on a ship between both. It enables you to stop at each location along the Nile where you can see all the famous ancient monuments, including the neglected Kom Ombo , as well as experience being in the Nile River inside a five-star hotel boat.
• Karnak and Luxor Temples
• West Bank with the Valley of the Kings , Medinat Habu and the Temple of Hatshepsut

Also not to miss:

• The Red Sea resorts at Sinai peninsula, including Dahab , Hurghada , and Sharm el Sheikh , with some of the best dive locations in the world.
• The sights of the Sinai peninsula, including Saint Catherine's Monastery and Mount Sinai .
• The western desert and the oases there, including Siwa .

Spectator sports

• Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Egypt, with the Egyptian Premier League being the main domestic tournament. The Cairo Derby between the clubs of Al Ahly and Zamalek [dead link] is the main highlight of the season, and widely regarded to be the biggest rivalry in all of Africa. The Egyptian national team is also one of the strongest in Africa, having won the African Cup of Nations a record 7 times, with some of the top Egyptian players having gone on to successful careers in Europe's elite clubs.

Cairo , for instance has so much to do and see. Besides the ancient Egyptian history, there is the history of Romans, Greeks, Byzantine Empire, Islamic empire, Ottomans, and finally modern Egyptian history.

Jewish and Christian history To see more about Egypt's Christian and Jewish history, go to a local tourist office and ask them to give you names of local churches and synagogues. There is at least two synagogues dating back many years ago, when Egypt had a population of a few hundred thousand Jews in the country, who eventually left during the formation of Israel in 1948.

There is a lot of old and interesting churches to see in different areas of Cairo, including downtown Cairo, Heliopolis, Korba, Shubra, Abbasiya, Zamalek, and Maadi. Some of these churches have been around for several hundred years and their architecture resemble that of Churches in Western countries, often built by Europeans who built much of the city's architecture in the 19th century as a resemblance to modern buildings of Europe at the time.

Modern Cairo If you want to see modern Cairo, try walking in the streets of Zamalek, Maadi, Mohandiseen, or Heliopolis where you will see some of the more modern buildings and get to experience the way of life in Egypt.

Local cafés, coffeeshops and restaurants For social times, try sitting in one of the local cafes restaurants where you can meet and interact with fellow Egyptians. There are numerous coffeeshops/cafes and restaurants all over Cairo all catering for different tastes and backgrounds and range from the very budget to the very expensive.

Local chains include Coffee Roastery, Cilantro, Grand Cafe, and Costa Coffee. Generally each area of Cairo has its cafés and restaurants.

Sporting and recreational clubs: If the heat is too much, you can go to one of the famous sporting clubs such as the Gezira Club located in Zamalek, or the Seid Club (otherwise known in English as the Shooting Club) located in Mohandiseen, where you can have a dip at the swimming pool or otherwise enjoy sitting in the shade and comfort of lush trees and gardens. Entrance for foreigners can be gained by buying a one-day ticket for LE20-30 which enables the person to enjoy all the facilities of club including playing any sports. There are of course changing facilities and restaurants inside the club where one can enjoy a meal or a drink after engaging in any activity.

Nightlife : If you enjoy nightlife, there is quite a few nightclubs and discos where you can drink and dance to some of the most modern tunes in the west as well as listen to some Arabic music. The music varies from Dance and Trance to Hip Hop, Rap, Techno, as well as Rock and Pop. These clubs are usually located inside five-star hotels or at areas such as Mohandiseen and Zamalek.

Examples include: the Cairo Jazz Club (mohandiseen), Purple (on a boat in Zamalek), Hard Rock Café (inside the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Garden City), and L'Obergine (pub and bar in Zamalek).

Desert adventures: For other adventures, try going to the Haram District of Cairo, and look for any horse-riding stables. There, you can rent a horse for a few hours and ride, or even ride a camel out in the desert by the pyramids and the Sphinx. The best time to do this is at night when you can see all the stars shining together in the sky and capture the magical feeling of the place. You will be with a local guide riding with you on another horse or camel, or you might even be joined a group of other individuals or groups of friends who enjoy riding horses in the desert by the pyramids like yourself.

Nile boat: Try renting a Feluca boat (small boat that can carry up to 20 individuals) in the Nile of Cairo. There you can experience the beauty of the Nile and the surround scenery, where you can see the city and its buildings and streets from within the water around. Depending on the weather, you can do this either day or night, but you will need to go to the Giza District and walk along the corniche area of the Nile and ask any of the locals for renting this boat.

Islamic Cairo/Fatimid Cairo: For those interested in the Islamic architecture and history, try going to Islamic Cairo (el Gamalaya district) or Khan El Khalili. There you will see numerous buildings and some mosques and see how buildings and houses were built in the Islamic Era of Egypt. There is also a Souk or (Bazar) where you can buy lots of different souvenirs and items.

Alexandria: Since Alexandria was founded in 332/31 BC by Alexander the Great “the pearl of the Mediterranean” has been one of the major sites of Egyptian history. After the death of the Macedonian king the city developed under the Ptolemies into the intellectual and cultural center of the entire Hellenistic world. Great scholars lived and worked in the Museion

The national spoken language is Egyptian Arabic – go for this if you want to be understood and perceived as a respectful visitor.

The official language of Egypt is Modern Standard Arabic (MSA). There are multiple versions of Arabic, often referred to as "dialects", but effectively different languages, mostly mutually unintelligible. MSA is taught in schools and used in most written and official forms such as TV, newspapers, government speeches, teaching and education, and so is understood by everyone, but you won't hear it in everyday speech. So you'd need to learn it to read the Qur'an, or to be a serious scholar of the language, but not for short visits.

Southern cities such as Luxor and Aswan have a dialect of Sa'idi Arabic, akin to the language of Sudan and the Saudi Hejaz. The Siwi language of the Western Desert and the Bedouin dialect of Sinai isn't even understood by most Egyptians. Egyptology scholars and hobbyists understand the hieroglyphics of the pharaohs , while their modern descendant Coptic is only heard in liturgy.

Arabic is a difficult language for most westerners as the grammar and word-patterns are so different. However if you learn nothing else, grasp a few basic words and courtesies. There is a ping-pong ritual whereby each greeting or salutation has a stock reply, so learn these together. After a couple of exchanges people will switch to English rather than endure your Arabic any longer, even before you concede defeat with betetkallem engelīzi? – "Do you speak English?" (Of course that's betetkallemi engelīzi? when addressing a female). For instance if you say shukran meaning "thanks" their stock reply comes in English: "Aah but you speak such good Arabic!" You might shrug and say ana talib, bas – "I'm just learning" and deprecate your attempts.

Written Arabic is even harder work, but you should learn the numbers, shown below. What we call "Arabic numbers" are actually western Arabic numerals, and the Arabic-speaking world uses the different eastern numerals. They're easy and instructive to learn, because when you see prices displayed for locals you'll realise with a shock how much extra they're demanding of you.

People in the service sector learn any language that might earn their next payment, and hotel and restaurant staff either have good English or quickly call their colleague who does. Otherwise, fish around for any language that might serve. During the 2010s the Russians and Ukrainians kept visiting Egypt in an era when many westerners stayed away, so those are often understood in the main resorts. People's German, French, Italian and Spanish might be rusty but they'll soon get it back. Along the Sinai coastal strip, they often know some Hebrew as there are many Israeli visitors. However, while the Greek Marine Club in Alexandria still serves good fish, their Greek is as deplorable as your Arabic.

The local currency is the Egyptian pound (ISO code: EGP ), which is divided into 100 piastres. The currency is often written as LE (short for French livre égyptienne , or by using the pound sign £ with or without additional letters: E£ and £E. In Arabic, the pound is called genē [màSri] / geni [màSri] ( جنيه [مصرى] ), in turn derived from English "guinea", and piastres (pt) are known as ersh (قرش). Wikivoyage uses the "LE" notation for consistency, but expect to see a variety of notations in shops and other businesses.

• Coins : Denominations are 25pt, 50pt and 1 pound (silver ring with yellow center). You won't really need to know the name piastre , as the smallest value in circulation as of 2023 is 25 piastres, and this is almost always called a "quarter pound" ( rob` genē ربع جنيه), and the 50 piastres, "half pound" ( noSS genē نص جنيه).
• Banknotes : The banknote denominations in circulation in Egypt are 25 and 50 piastres; 1, 5, 10 (two versions, in paper and polymer), 20 (two versions, in paper and polymer), 50, 100 and 200 pounds.

In Egypt, the pound sterling is called, genē esterlīni (جنيه استرلينى).

The Egyptian pound has been devalued dramatically in 2024: US$1 bought LE 31 in January, and 47 on March 19. This has brought the official rate in line with the black market rate. Prices quoted in Egyptian pounds in travel guides are not reliable.

Money exchange

Banks and exchange offices or anyone who would exchange currencies, would slightly extra charge you for the official exchange rate. Foreign currencies can be exchanged at exchange offices or banks, so there is no need to resort to the dodgy street moneychangers. Many higher-end hotels price in US dollars or euros and will gladly accept them as payment, however often at a bad rate over the Egyptian pounds. Bank hours are Sunday to Thursday, 8:30AM-2PM.

Counterfeit or obsolete notes are not a major problem, but exchanging pounds outside the country can be difficult. Before leaving Egypt, even if travelling to neighbouring countries in the Middle East, convert your currency to euros, British pounds or US dollars. Money changers in other countries will give you 30–50% per Egyptian Pound than the rate you will get in Egypt, if they accept Egypt's currency at all. Converting to and from US dollars, euros or British pounds has a relatively small spread, so you will only lose a few per cent.

You can withdraw local money with a Mastercard or Visa card from many ATMs all over Egypt. ATMs are ubiquitous in the cities and probably the best option. The ATMs in Egypt usually don't have any fees for withdrawing money, just avoid the Euronet ATMs. Letting your home bank do the currency conversion when using ATM, offers the best rate. Many foreign banks have branches in Egypt. These include Barclay's Bank, HSBC, CitiBank, NSGB, BNP Paribas, Piraeus Bank, CIB, and other local and Arab banks.

For getting small bank notes, it's best to type in for example LE350 to withdraw (multiple times). Then you get at least one LE100 and one LE50 banknote each time.

Credit cards

Visa and Mastercard credit and debit cards are accepted at many frequented places, but only bigger hotels or restaurants in Cairo and restaurants in tourist areas will readily accept American Express and Diners Club cards as payment. Traveller's cheques can no longer be used.

Egypt is a shopper's paradise, especially if you're interested in Egyptian-themed souvenirs and kitsch. However, there are also a number of high quality goods for sale, often at bargain prices. Some of the most popular purchases include:

• Alabaster Alabaster bowls, figures, etc are common throughout Egypt.
• Antiques In the sense of old items of relatively recent origin (19th century or later). This should be distinguished from "antiquities", i.e. artifacts from deeper history, the trade in which is illegal in Egypt. However, if you want a chair or typewriter from the 1930s or a dish or a pistol from the 1880s, these are available to the adventurous buyer (though beware counterfeiters).
• Carpets and rugs
• Cotton goods and clothing Can be bought at Khan El Khalili for around LE30-40. Better quality Egyptian cotton clothing can be bought at various chain stores including Mobaco Cottons and Concrete which have many branches throughout the country. The clothes are expensive for Egypt (about LE180-200 for a shirt) but cheap by Western standards given the quality.
• Inlaid goods , such as backgammon boards
• Jewellery Cartouches make a great souvenir. These are metal plates shaped like an elongated oval and have engravings of your name in hieroglyphics
• Kohl powder Real Egyptian kohl eye make-up (eye-liner) can be purchased at many stores for a small price. It is a black powder, about a teaspoon worth, that is generally sold in a small packet or a wood-carved container and it is generally applied liberally with something akin to a fat toothpick/thin chopstick to the inner eyelids and outlining the eye. Very dramatic, and a little goes a very long way Cleopatra would have had her eye make-up applied by laying on the floor and having someone drop a miniature spoonful of the powder into each eye. As the eye teared up, the make-up would distribute nicely around the eyes and trail off at the sides, creating the classic look. However, beware that most of them contain lead sulphide, which is a health concern. Ask for a lead-free kohl ( min-gheir ruṣāṣ or khālī min ruṣāṣ ).
• Lanterns (fanūs; pl. fawanīs) Intricately cut and stamped metal lanterns, often with colourful glass windows, will hold a votive candle in style.
• Leather goods
• Papyrus (bardi) However, most papyrus you'll see is made of a different type of reed, not "papyrus", which is extremely rare. Know what you are buying, if you care about the difference, and haggle prices accordingly. If in doubt, assume it is inauthentic papyrus you are being offered for sale.
• Perfume - Perfumes can be bought at almost every souvenir shop. Make sure that you ask the salesman to prove to you that there is no alcohol mixed with the perfume. The standard rates should be in the range of LE1-2 for each gram.
• Water-pipes (shīsha)
• Spices (tawābel) - can be bought at colourful stalls in most Egyptian markets. Dried herbs and spices are generally of a higher quality than that available in Western supermarkets and are a fifth to a quarter of the price, though the final price will depend on bargaining and local conditions.

When shopping in markets or dealing with street vendors, remember to bargain . This is a part of the salesmanship game that both parties are expected to engage in.

You will also find many western brands all around. There are many malls in Egypt, the most common being Citystars Mall , which is the largest entertainment centre in the Middle East and Africa. You will find all the fast food restaurants you want such as McDonald's, KFC, Hardees, and Pizza Hut, and clothing brands such as Morgan, Calvin Klein, Levi's, Facconable, Givenchy, and Esprit.

In Egypt, prices are often increased for foreigners, so if you see a price on a price tag, it may be wise to learn the local Eastern Arabic numerals :

They are written from left to right. For example, the number (15) would be written as ( ١٥ ).

Shopping in Egypt ranges goods and commodities that represent souvenirs of Egypt's ancient as well as modern things. These include items such as small pyramids, obelisks and souvenir statues which can be bought at more tourist areas such as Khan El Khalili and Islamic Cairo.

The modern shopping malls, City Stars, City Centre and Nile City, sell designer brands such as Guess, Calvin Klein, Armani and Hugo Boss.

Egyptians do not tip at restaurants, nor do restaurant owners expect them, though at fancier restaurants a service charge may be added to your bill. Many restaurants in touristy areas will inflate prices for foreigners anyway, and you probably won't even know it unless you notice a printed price or another customer being charged a different price for the same thing.

Tips are mostly a tourist thing. 90% of people who work in the service/hospitality industry try to make their main source of income from living off of tips. You don't have to pay huge tips as often smallest notes are appreciated. However, you do not have to tip if you feel that you haven't received any service or help at all or if you feel that the service was bad. Nobody will ever take offence or be disrespectful if you did not tip them.

Most public toilets are staffed, and visitors are expected to tip the attendant. Some toilet attendants, especially at tourist sites, will dole out toilet paper based on the tip they receive. Foreigners may be especially susceptible to this, and although some locals ask or demand tips, they are often not warranted.

If you ask a stranger for directions, tips are not necessary and may even be considered offensive. Officials in uniform, such as police officers, should not be tipped. Remember that bribery is illegal, but it is likely that nothing will happen to you. Be aware that as a foreign tourist, you are seen by many as easy money and you should not let yourself be pressured into tipping for unnecessary or unrequested "services" like self-appointed tour guides latching on to you.

Some general guidelines:

• Restaurants : No tip is needed, though in fancier restaurants a service charge (10-12%) may be added to bills
• Taxi drivers : Not necessary, always agreed on the fare in advance
• Tour drivers : LE10/day
• Bathroom attendants : LE1-3
• Cruises : LE30/day, depending on the initial price (divided by all staff on board)
• Hotel bellman : LE10 for all bags
• Hotel doorman : LE10 for services rendered (such as flagging down taxis)
• Site custodians : LE5 if they do something useful, none otherwise

Egypt can be a fantastic place to sample a unique range of food: not too spicy and well-flavoured with herbs and aromatic spices like parsley, cilantro, dill, cumin, cinnamon, and cardamom. For a convenient selection of Egyptian cuisine and staple foods try the Felfela chain of restaurants in Cairo . Some visitors complain, however, that these have become almost too tourist-friendly and have abandoned some elements of authenticity. A more affordable and wider-spread alternative is the Arabiata restaurant chain, Arabiata is considered by locals to be the number one destination for Egyptian delicacies as falafel and fūl too.

Beware of any restaurant listed in popular guidebooks and websites. Even if the restaurant was once great, after publication, they will likely create a "special" English menu that includes very high prices.

As in many seaside countries, Egypt is full of fish restaurants and markets so fish and seafood are must-try. Frequently, fish markets have some food stalls nearby where you can point at specific fish species to be cooked. Stalls typically have shared tables, and locals are as frequent there as tourists.

McDonald's has food which you may not find in your home country like the McFalafel and the long-streched Chicken Fillet.

Be aware that hygiene may not be of the highest standards, depending on the place. The number of tourists that suffer from some kind of parasite or bacterial infection is very high. Despite assurances to the contrary, exercise common sense and bring appropriate medications to deal with problems. "Antinal" (Nifuroxazide), an intestinal antibiotic, is cheap, effective and available in every pharmacy. "Imodium" or similar products are prescription drugs only.

Although Antinal is very effective, sometimes when nothing else is, the elderly should check the brand name with their doctor before relying on it as it contains a high concentration of active ingredient that is not approved by the US Food and Drug Administration or the British regulatory pharmaceutical body.

People expecting to remain in Egypt for more than 2–3 weeks should be cautious about using Antinal, as it may hinder their ability to acquire immunity to local bacteria and make traveller's diarrhoea a more frequent problem.

Local dishes

Many local foods are vegetarian or vegan compliant, a function of the high cost of meat in Egypt and the influence of Coptic Christianity (whose frequent fast days demand vegan food).

Classic Egyptian dishes: The dish fūl medammes is one of the most common Egyptian dishes; consists of fava beans ( fūl ) slow-cooked in a copper pot (other types of metal pots don't produce the right type of flavor) that have been partially or entirely mashed. fūl medammes is served with cumin, vegetable oil, optionally with chopped parsley, onion, garlic, lemon juice and hot pepper, and typically eaten with Egyptian ( baladi ) bread or occasionally Levantine ( shāmi ) pita.

One should try the classic falāfel which is deep-fried ground fava bean balls (but better known worldwide for the ground chickpea version typically found in other cuisines of the Middle Eastern region) that was believed to be invented by Egyptian Bedouins. Usually served as fast food, or a snack, but also a traditional weekend breakfast for many families. Note that falafel is called ța`meyya in most of the country, including Cairo; "falafel", however, is universally understood, as it is used in some major Egyptian dialects (particularly that of Alexandria), besides being standard in other varieties of Arabic.

Koshari is a famous dish, which is usually a mixture of macaroni, lentils, rice and chickpeas, topped with tomato sauce and fried onions. Very popular amongst the locals and a must try for tourists. The gratinated variation is called Tâgen .

Additionally, hummus, a chickpea based food, also widespread in the Middle East.

kofta (meat balls) and kebab are also popular.

Egyptian cuisine is quite similar to the cuisine of the Middle Eastern countries. Dishes like stuffed vegetables and vine leaves and shawarma sandwiches are common in Egypt and the region.

Exotic fruits

Egypt is one of the most affordable countries for a European to try variety of fresh-grown exotic fruits. Guava, mango, watermelon and banana are all widely available from fruit stalls, especially in locals-oriented non-tourist marketplaces.

See also Stay healthy:Fluids section for hygiene and related info.

Bottled water is widely available. The local brands (most common being Baraka , Hayat , Siwa  ) are of the same price as foreign brand options which are also available: Nestle Pure Life , Dasani (bottled by Coca-Cola), and Aquafina (bottled by Pepsi). Evian is less available and is expensive. While safe to drink some may find the local brand, Baraka, has a very slight baking soda aftertaste, due to the high mineral content of its deep well water source.

No matter where you buy bottled water from (even hotels are not entirely reliable), before accepting it, check that there is a clear plastic seal on it and the neck ring is still attached to the cap by the breakable threads of plastic. It is common to collect empty but new bottles and refill them with tap water which drinking a bottle of might make you ill. Not all brands have the clear plastic cover but all the good ones do.

Safety of bottled water

It is important not to buy strange brands, as they may not be safe for drinking . In 2012 the Ministry of Health ordered the following bottled water brands to be taken off shelves: Alpha, Hadir, Seway, Aqua Delta, Tiba, Aqua Mina and Aqua Soteir [dead link] .

As of 2013, some of the previous ones were licensed, but the Ministry of Health warned against other unlicensed brands :

• unlicensed, unsafe brands: ( Safa, el Waha, Ganna, Sahari, Life, el Wadi, Zamzam  ). (صفا – الواحة – جنا – صحارى – لايف – الوادى – زمزم),

In 2013, the Ministry of Health stated there are only 17 licensed brands that are safe to drink. These are:

• 17 licensed safe brands: ( Hayah, Safi, Aqua Siwa ,Siwa, Aman Siwa, Organica, Nahl, Aqua Sky, Mineral, Vira, Nestlé, Baraka, Alpha, Aquafina, Tiba, Aqua Delta, Dasani, Aqua Paris  ).
• (حياه، صافى، أكوا سيوة، سيوة، أمان سيوة، أورجانيكا، نهل، أكوا سكاى، منيرال، فيرا، نستله، بركة، ألفا، أكوافينا، طيبة، أكوا دلتا، داسانى، أكوا باريس)

Of the licensed brands, locals commonly advise tourists to avoid Baraka if possible, as it contains a high concentration of mineral salts and has something of an off flavour.

Juices and herbal teas

Juices can be widely found in Egypt - àSàb (sugar cane; قصب); liquorice ( ` erk sūs  عرق سوس); sobya (white juice; سوبيا); tàmr (sweet dates; تمر) and some fresh fruit juices (almost found at same shop which offer all these kind of juices except liquorice may be which you can find another places).

Hibiscus, known locally as karkadē (كركديه) or ` ennāb (عناب), is also commonly served as a tea. It is regarded as a specialty of Luxor, but is popular across the country. This tea is usually grouped with juices because, while it can be served hot, it is usually iced and served cold, and most often heavily sweetened. Travellers familiar with the aguas frescas of Latin America would be able to identify it as essentially the same as agua de flor de Jamaica .

Hibiscus and liquorice should not be consumed excessively as they may not be safe for those suffering low blood pressure or high blood pressure. Hibiscus may lower blood pressure, while liquorice may raise blood pressure.

Alcoholic drinks

Egypt is a predominantly Muslim nation and alcoholic drinks are religiously forbidden ( haram ) for observant Muslims, though not legally. Egyptians tend to adopt a relaxed and pragmatic view towards alcohol for non-Muslims and foreigners. It is tolerated by the vast majority of Egyptians and consumed by a sizeable number of them. Places which sell alcoholic beverages require special licence and pay extra taxes to operate. Alcoholic beverages and bottled drinks are readily available throughout the country (especially in larger towns and cities, as well as tourist centres). Public drunkenness (especially the loud and obnoxious variety) is definitely not appreciated, and you may end up sobering up in a police cell. Try to be a good ambassador: if you must get "tipsy", confine it to the hotel or very nearby. It's quite rare to see drunken tourists even in tourist areas. It is illegal to drink alcohol in public and it's advisable not to attempt to drink in streets; however, on the New Year's Eve, many Egyptians in Cairo may be drunk and holding alcoholic beverages in the streets.

The cheapest alcoholic beverage is beer. Common brands are: Stella (not Artois) and Sakkara which are common lager beers in Egypt (approx. 4%), both brewed by Heineken's Egyptian subsidiary, Ahram Beverages Company . Other local brands are available, most with a higher alcohol variant that have claimed levels of 8% or even 10%. Foreign brands made under license in Egypt include Heineken and Meister but are slightly more expensive.

More expensive alcoholic beverages than beer are the carbonated vodka cocktails, with 10% alcohol, specifically ID Double Edge which is popular with people who drink alcohol. There is also an assortment of liquors (generally only found in liquor stores, and generally only found at reasonable prices in liquor stores that primarily cater to Egyptians). Wine is available; however, prices for imported wine tend to be high, if not astronomical, and domestic wines (e.g. Omar Khayyam) are overpriced for their rather low quality.

Do not buy anything you don't know or suspect, as there might be a risk that it may be counterfeit and can be adulterated with methanol (methyl alcohol). Methanol is a poisonous but cheap alcohol usually used as e.g. a cleaning solvent or fuel, but which causes blindness and death if ingested.

Restrictions on alcohol

Egyptian laws towards alcohol are officially quite liberal compared to most Islamic countries, except for the month of Ramadan when alcohol is strictly forbidden. During Ramadan only holders of foreign passports are allowed to buy alcohol, by Egyptian law. However, the enforcement of this law is by no means consistent. In tourist areas like Luxor, alcohol is sold even during Ramadan, and those who look like foreigners will not be asked to show passports or other documentation.

During Ramadan alcohol is often sold only in Western-style hotels and pubs/restaurants catering especially to foreigners. A few days of the year, as the day of the full moon the month before Ramadan, alcohol is completely banned. Also some hotels and bars catering to foreigners will stop serving alcohol during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan: phone ahead to make sure alcohol is still being served in order to avoid disappointment.

Egypt has a full range of accommodation options, from basic backpacker hostels to five-star resorts. Most major hotel chains are represented in Greater Cairo , Sharm el Sheikh and Luxor , at least. You can reserve most of your accommodation online or contact a local agent who can organise both accommodation and trips.

Walk-in rates give you great discounts over online reservations, e.g. half-price in Aswan. Generally, online reservations are more expensive due to it being used by so many tourists. However, in Egypt most hotels do not have their own website and do not have to commit to the agreement with online reservations sites to offer the same price online as offline. Nevertheless, have a screenshot of the actual online price ready, just in case you encounter a hotel that is willing to overcharge you. In high season, it is best to reserve the first night and haggle for the following night(s). Otherwise, if there is no general shortage of rooms and less than 60 % are booked (usually displayed at the top of online reservation sites), then check out an area with many hotels and go there asking around. Hotels will also happily accept you cancelling your existing online reservation in person for a discount. When reserving online, often you have the flat price, with tax and fees added. Generally, you will get at least these taxes and fees as discount (10-15%) when cancelling the reservation in person and/or when bargaining.

Some online hotel sites state that payment is required in Egyptian pounds by law. However, most hotels will accept Egyptian pounds at a mostly fair conversion from the online stated rate.

Egypt can provide good options for learning the Arabic language, as well as history.

The American University in Cairo (AUC), [1] is the best school in the country and offers degree, non-degree and summer school study options. Popular courses include Arabic Language and Literature, Islamic Art and Architecture, Arab History and Culture, and, of course, Egyptology.

There are a number of options for learning Arabic in Cairo , including the Arabic Language Institute, Kalimat and International Language Institute .

Egypt has one of the largest economies in Africa and has a somewhat low (7% as of 2023) unemployment rate; therefore, there are jobs for people with the right skills and connections.

Egyptian companies tend to operate like families; relationships are taken very seriously and you can expect people to constantly inquire about your health, well-being, your office space, and so on. It is important for non-Egyptians to build good relationships, establish themselves, and demonstrate that they are reliable and dependable; Egyptians usually favour working with familiar and trusted people.

You should be aware that your Egyptian counterpart will feel obliged to reciprocate any gift, invitation or favour you offer them. Therefore, if they invite you to their home, they will expect you to return the gesture in some way.

Egyptians generally respond well to public praise and respect those who value them in any way, shape, or form ― a common principle shared with many Arab nations.

Egyptian companies are hierarchical and there are set expectations for both senior managers and junior employees. Senior managers are generally expected to be decisive and demonstrate leadership qualities, and junior employees are generally expected to follow their superiors at all times.

Egypt is often labelled as an unsafe country by many third-party governments — a reputation that's not entirely unwarranted — but the average traveller should not be too overly concerned or cautious of their surroundings.

Travelling in Egypt is, more or less, similar to travelling in Morocco , Jordan , Palestine or Turkey .

Perhaps the biggest safety concern is terrorism . The Sinai Peninsula in particular is a hotspot for terrorist activity.

Female travellers

Egyptian men will make compliments to women; do not take offence if they do this to you. Men should not be worried, either; if they do this to your partner or daughter it hopefully won't go any further than that.

Be warned that foreign women often attract the attention of Egyptian men. Being overly friendly to or making direct eye contact with an Egyptian man may cause him to think that you're "into" him.

Some men may inappropriately touch you . If this ever happens, don't be afraid to create a scene and don't feel the need to be polite; no woman should put up with rotten behaviour like that. Bystanders may come to your aid if prompted. One way to deter harassers: loudly say "haraam aleik" (lit. shame on you) or the simpler phrase "imshi" (lit. go away or get lost)

Sexual harassment is a criminal offence in Egypt. Those convicted can face imprisonment, hefty fines, or both.

Political unrest

Egypt has a long history of political instability. Protests against the government can occur anytime, and they can turn violent. Many believe Abdel Fattah el-Sisi's (the current president) government is much more repressive than that of their previous president, Hosni Mubarak.

There is no such thing as "free-speech" in Egypt; thousands of Egyptians have been arrested for publicising strongly worded opinions about the government in public and on social media. Foreigners are not exempt from prosecution.

If you plan on staying in the country for long, make it a point to monitor local media often.

Terrorism is a safety concern, and the country's terrorist groups have an unpleasant record of specifically targeting Western tourists and the places they frequent. However, lately the focus seems more on the minority of Coptic Christians than on tourists. The Egyptian security forces remain on a very high level of alert.

Realistically, the odds of being affected by terrorism are statistically low and most attacks have only succeeded in killing Egyptians, further increasing the revulsion the vast majority of Egyptians feel for the extremists. The government takes the issue very seriously only when it harms them financially and tourist sites are heavily guarded, though with the level and proficiency of Egyptian police leaving a lot to be desired. For example, if you take a taxi from Cairo to Alexandria, you will be stopped at a checkpoint before leaving Cairo. They will on occasion ask where you are going, and on occasion communicate with the checkpoint at Alexandria to make sure you reach your destination within a certain time period. The same goes for most trips into the desert, particularly in Upper Egypt, which is probably best avoided due to rising religious tensions that seep below the surface and whilst appearing safe has the capacity to erupt without a moment's notice. During different branches of your drive, you may be escorted by local police, who will expect some sort of financial payment if you are travelling in a taxi or private car. Generally, they will travel to your destination with you, wait around until you are finished, and usually stay behind at one of the next checkpoints often as they have nothing else to do and because tourists are seen as $ signs. The best example of this is when you travel from Aswan to Abu Simbel to visit the Temple of Ramses II. An armed tourism police officer will board your tourist bus and escort you until you arrive at Abu Simbel, and after your tour, he will ride on the same bus with you back to Aswan, again because it's part of his job and without the tourists there would be no jobs and there would be no reason to ensure security for their own people as they don't represent a financial figure to them.

There are also many tourism police officers armed with AK47s riding on camels patrolling the Giza plateau. They are there to ensure the safety of the tourists since the Pyramids are the crown jewels of all the Egyptian antiquities. They are very poorly maintained with no forthcoming investments from within Egypt, only outside investment given by countries and historical groups that cannot bear to see the ruin the local government is letting these sites of wonder become. Some tourists may find it exciting or even amusing to take pictures with these police officers on camel back; however, since they are all on patrol duty, it is not uncommon for them to verbally warn you not to pose next to them in order to take a picture with them, although anything is possible for financial payment.

Cannabis and narcotics are banned and carry heavy penalties. However, hashish in particular is common, even among Egyptians; it is seen to some extent as a part of Egyptian culture and is generally considered much less objectionable than alcohol. Many Egyptian clerics regard it makruh (permitted but disapproved of) rather than haraam (forbidden). Many Egyptians who recoil at the idea of drinking alcohol think nothing of using hashish; it is commonly used on festive occasions in rural areas in some parts of the country and in many Sufi rituals nationwide. The police may use possession of hashish as a pretext for arresting and beating up people, but their targets are typically locals, not tourists. So long as you do not antagonise the security forces or otherwise attract their attention, foreigners are unlikely to be punished for private consumption of cannabis within Egypt. But bringing the stuff in or out of the country, or flying domestically with it, is likely to end badly.

Egypt, like the Gulf States, has clamped down on legal painkillers , even when they're accompanied by a prescription and are for the traveller's own use. Check their embassy website for the current list of what's not allowed. It's unclear how rigorously this will be enforced. But probably, as in other matters, unobtrusive personal use will be OK; get slurry on vodka and Tramadol and you could be in trouble.

Traffic in Egypt is reckless and dangerous. Pay particular attention when crossing the road. Be patient and watch how locals cross the street to learn safe strategies.

Scams and hassle

Scams and hassle are the main concern in Egypt, especially in Luxor. Visitors often complain about being hassled and attempts at scamming. While irritating, most of this is pretty harmless stuff, like attempting to lure you into a local papyrus or perfume shop.

Be aware that many Egyptians who start a conversation with you want your money. Typically, you will be approached by a person speaking fluent English, German or Russian who will strike up a conversation under social pretences. He (and it will always be a he) will then attempt to get you to come along for a cup of tea or similar at his favourite (most-paying) souvenir shop. This could also happen outside museums, etc., where the scammer will try to make you believe the "museum is closed" or similar. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Demand prices for everything, because if you say "I thought it was free" after the fact you are in for a vicious argument.

Hassling, while never dangerous, could also be annoying, especially in the main tourist areas. There is no way to avoid this, but a polite la shukran (no thanks) helps a lot. Apart from that, try to take hassling with a smile. If you let yourself be bugged by everyone trying to sell you something, your holiday won't be a very happy one.

Potentially more annoying are taxi drivers or others getting a commission fee to lead you to their hotel of choice, of course paying commission fees for each guest they receive. Firmly stand your ground on this. If they insist, just ask to be dropped off at a street or landmark close to the place you are heading to. This scam is especially common among taxi drivers from the airport.

LGBT travellers

The gay scene in Egypt is not open and free like in the West. Gay and lesbian visitors should be self-aware and refrain from overt and public displays. While a few gay bars had been able to operate semi-openly in major cities in pre-revolutionary times, the situation has deteriorated and members of gay baths or gay wedding parties were being targeted for prosecution for "debauchery" in 2014.

Egypt is an Islamic and conservative country. Any display of homosexuality is considered strange, weird, disrespectful and may lead on most occasions to hostile reactions. Depending on the situation and the place and time, it could be anything from weird looks to physical abuse. Therefore, gays and lesbians should be discreet while in Egypt.

Gays have been arrested by the police and detained and even tortured in Cairo in the past for engaging in homosexual activity. Human rights groups have condemned such actions and the Egyptian government has been under pressure from different sources to stop this treatment of homosexuals.

Pick pocketing was a problem in the past in Egypt's bigger cities, particularly Greater Cairo. Many locals therefore opted not to carry wallets at all, instead keeping their money in a clip in their pocket, and tourists would be wise to adopt this as well. On the upside, violent crime is rare, especially for tourists, and you are highly unlikely to be mugged or robbed. If, however, you do find yourself the victim of crime, you may get the support of local pedestrians by shouting "Harami" (Thief) but do not pursue because it's the easiest way to get lost and most criminals carry pocket knives; if the crime happens in a tourist area you'll find a specially designated Tourism Police kiosk.

Egyptian dual nationals

If you are a dual citizen of Egypt or considered Egyptian by the authorities, your other passport will not exempt you from mandatory military service (applicable to men only) and grant you consular access and protection in the unlikely event you get detained or arrested by the authorities.

Power outage

Due to power plant natural gas supply issue since mid-2023, the Egyptian government is mandating rolling blackout for 1-2 hours per day. Power in the entire neighbourhood will be cut during the outage. Schedule for the outage is posted online in Arabic. Streetlights are either dimmed or reduced to conserve power, posing safety issue on the street and in public spaces at night. While mid to high-end hotels have backup power generator, budget hotels and bed & breakfast may not.

Stay healthy

Some of the hospitals in Egypt's major cities and tourist areas are of international standard. Private hospitals are expensive by Western standards, but it is advisable to use private hospitals. Hospitals will not treat patients if travel insurance does not cover the costs or if a large sum of money has not been deposited with the hospital. For this reason, travellers to Egypt are advised to take out comprehensive travel insurance.

Doctors in private hospitals in Egypt have often studied abroad. Adequate primary health care is available, particularly in the Cairo, Alexandria, Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh areas, but access to more demanding care can be limited in some areas.

Most public hospitals do not accept foreign insurance documents as a guarantee of payment and require cash payment. When you pay for medical treatment yourself, the doctor or hospital will give you a receipt and a statement of treatment. You can send these to your insurance company. You can also get an official receipt from your pharmacy for the medicines you have paid for. These documents will include the doctor's details, a clarification of the name and contact details of the practice and hospital (address, telephone and fax numbers and, in the case of hospitals, website address). However, you should always check this.

Private medical care is available, particularly in Cairo (Anglo American Hospital Zamalek, As Salam International Hospital Maadi, Dar Al Fouad Hospital Sheik Zayed and Saudi-German Hospital Heliopolis) and Alexandria (German Hospital). Doctors usually speak English, nurses less so. Private hospitals often accept foreign insurance documents as proof of payment. You should check with the hospital beforehand.

In tourist resorts such as El Gouna and Hurghada, some hotels cooperate with doctors. The hotel can then order a doctor.

The emergency number of the Egyptian ambulance is 123. However, ambulance availability varies from region to region and it can take a long time to reach the patient, especially in heavy traffic. Outside large cities, health services are often inadequate, especially for demanding medical treatments.

Pharmacies in Egypt are generally comprehensive and many medicines are available without a prescription. When buying medicines, make sure that they are clearly labelled in their original packaging. Counterfeits are available in some pharmacies and can be dangerous in the worst case.

Ensure that you drink plenty of water : Egypt has an extremely dry climate most of the year, which is aggravated by high temperatures in the summer end of the year, and countless travellers each year experience the discomforts and dangers of dehydration . A sense of thirst is not enough to indicate danger: carry a water bottle and keep drinking.

Egyptian tap water is generally considered safe by most locals, but will often make travellers ill. It is not recommended for regular drinking, especially to very local differences in quality. Bottled mineral waters are widely available: see Drink:Water section. Beware of the old scam where vendors re-sell bottled water bottles, having refilled with another, perhaps dubious, source. Always check the seal is unbroken before paying or drinking from it, and inform the tourist police if you catch anyone doing this.

Be a little wary with fruit juice , as some sellers may mix it with water. Milk should also be treated carefully as it may not be pasteurized. Try only to buy milk from reputable shops. Hot beverages like tea and coffee should generally be OK, the water having been boiled in preparation, though it pays to be wary of ice as well.

In the winter, the sun is generally the mildest, especially in December and is the weakest in northern Egypt. Egypt has a desert climate, which makes clouds almost non-existent in the warmer months, so expect extremely bright sunny days especially from June to August, try to avoid direct sun exposure from 9AM (10AM in the summer) to 3PM (4PM in the summer). Bring good sunglasses and wear good sunscreen, however sunscreen becomes ineffective when the exposed skin sweats. Additionally, wearing a hat can help.

Schistosomiasis

In order to avoid contracting the rightly dreaded schistosomiasis parasite (also known as bilharzia ), a flatworm that burrows through the skin, do not swim in the Nile or venture into any other Egyptian waterways, even if the locals are doing so. It is also a good idea not to walk in bare feet on freshly-watered lawns for the same reason.

Although the disease takes weeks to months to show its head, it's wise to seek medical attention locally if you think you've been exposed, as they are used to diagnosing and treating it, and it will cost you pennies rather than dollars. Symptoms include fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain and fatigue, making the disease easy to mistake for (say) the flu or food poisoning, but the flatworm eggs can be identified with a stool test and the disease can usually be cured with a single dose of Praziquantel.

Outbreaks of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in Egypt have led to 23 human fatalities since 2006. The last fatality was in December 2008.

Vaccinations and malaria

The following vaccinations are generally recommended for Egypt:

• All routine vaccinations including: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine and yearly flu vaccine.
• Hepatitis A and typhoid fever.
• Hepatitis B if a sexual contact, tattooing/piercing or medical procedures are planned.
• Rabies if a long stay is planned especially if with outdoor activities.

A low risk of P. vivax malaria exist only in the Aswan area of Egypt. While traveling to Aswan travelers are advised to avoid mosquito bites.

General issues

While Egypt is interesting and beautiful, it is full of stress from noise, dust and people hassling you. Especially when not staying at the high end hotels or completely relying on package tours, this will grind your gears. Thus, from time to time take a break from the constant attraction-seeking, bargain-hunting and trip-organising; choose a slower pace, just spend a day in the ho(s)tel or hang around in a park with your headphones on. Also, do not forget earplugs for the night, because often there will be noise even deep in the night or quite early in the morning if you are near a school. Egypt does not seem to rest, but this does not mean you do not have to.

Smoking is allowed virtually everywhere in Egypt, and you will regularly encounter people smoking on the train, in lobbies and at restaurants. While they might sometimes be considerate and sit somewhere away from others, mostly the smoke gets blown in regardless. Unfortunately, there is not much you can do about it.

Egyptians, in general, are friendly and welcoming. As is the case in many Muslim-majority countries, Egyptians consider it shameful to not give a guest a warm welcome.

Egyptians, North Africans , and Arabs in the Gulf share a common culture and form the Arab world; therefore, much of what is considered good manners in Arab world is very much applicable to Egypt.

First-time visitors to the Arab world should keep the following rule in mind: be smart about what you say or do openly. Any action that causes an Egyptian to lose their honour (face) will not be taken positively.

Social customs

• Never beckon an Egyptian person directly , even if they have done something wrong in your opinion. If you must give feedback, give a mix of both positive and negative feedback.
• Do not tell dirty jokes . As is the case throughout the Arab world, such humor is not appreciated in Egypt.
• Religion is a delicate topic of discussion. Always approach religious discussions with sensitivity and respect. Talking about religion from a secular or agnostic point of view may be met with bewilderment. Also, anything hinting at proselytism will not be appreciated.

Most Egyptian workers expect tips after performing a service. This can be expected for something as little as pressing the button in the elevator. Many workers will even ask you to tip them before you get a chance. The typical tip for minor services is LE1. Due to the general shortage of small change, you may be forced to give LE5 to do simple things like use the lavatory. Just understand that this is part of the culture; the value of that tip is very small to most westerners but makes up a good portion of monthly income for many Egyptians.

Greeting people

When you approach any individual or a group of people for the first time, the best thing to say is the local variation of the Islamic form of greeting "es-salāmu-`alēku" which literally means "peace be upon you". This is the most common form of saying "hello" to anybody. It creates a friendliness between you and people you don't know, builds rapport, and helps build respect! It is also considered polite to say this if you approach someone, instead of just asking them for something or speaking to them directly.

Other forms of greeting include "SàbâH el khēr" ("good morning"), "masā' el khēr" ("good evening"), or the more casual "ezzayyak" addressing a male, or "ezzayyek" addressing a female, which means "hello" or "how are you?".

When leaving, you can say the same "es-salāmu-`alēku", or simply "ma`a s-salāma", literally: "with safety" or "with wellness" which is used to mean to say "goodbye". More educated Egyptians will say "bye-bye" derived from the English "goodbye" or "buh-bye" when leaving others.

Smiling : Most people appreciate a smile, and most Egyptians smile when they speak to someone for the first time. People who don't smile while they speak are considered arrogant, rude, aggressive, unfriendly, etc.

Egyptians are generally a conservative people and most are religious and dress very conservatively. Although they accommodate foreigners being dressed a lot more skimpily, it is prudent not to dress provocatively, if only to avoid having people stare at you. It is best to wear pants, jeans, long shorts instead of short-shorts as only tourists wear these. In modern nightclubs, restaurants, hotels and bars in Cairo, Alexandria and other tourist destinations you'll find the dress code to be much less restrictive. Official or social functions and smart restaurants usually require more formal wear.

At the Giza Pyramids and other such places during the hot summer months, short sleeve tops and even sleeveless tops are acceptable for women (especially when traveling with a tour group). Though you should carry a scarf or something to cover up more while traveling to/from the tourist destination. Also, it's perfectly acceptable for women to wear sandals during the summer, and you will even see some women with the hijab who have sandals on.

Women should cover their arms and legs if travelling alone, you do not need to cover your hair; many Christian women walk around in Egypt comfortably with their hair uncovered. Though as a foreigner, you may get plenty of attention no matter what you wear, mainly including people staring at you along with some verbal harassment which you can try to ignore. Egyptian women, even those who wear the full hijab, are often subjected to sexual harassment, including cat calls. You may find that completely covering up does not make a huge difference, with regards to harassment, versus wearing a top with shorter sleeves. In regards to harassment, it's also important how you act. Going out with a group of people is also helpful, and the best thing to do is ignore men who give you unwanted attention. They want to get some reaction out of you. Also, one sign of respect is to use the Arabic greeting, "Asalamualaikum" (means "hello, peace be upon you"), and the other person should reply "Walaikumasalam" ("peace be upon you"). That lets the person know you want respect, and nothing else.

Mosque etiquette

Do not enter a mosque wearing any type of shoes, sandals, slippers, boots as this is very disrespectful. Always take them off before entering as they carry the dirt from the street, and the mosque (a place of prayer) should be clean. However, you can keep socks on.

Etiquette in the presence of people praying

Also, avoid walking in front of persons in prayer. The reason is because when people kneel, they kneel to God. If you stand in front of someone while they are praying or kneeling, it is as if they are kneeling to you or worshipping you, a complete taboo and against the basic foundations of Islam. Otherwise, it is quite acceptable for visitors or Christian Egyptians to carry on as normal in the streets or shops that operate during prayer times.

Public displays of affection

Like most other countries in the Muslim world, the Middle East, and even some non-Muslim conservative countries, affection should not be displayed in public. Egyptians are conservative and doing things like making out with your girlfriend/boyfriend in public is considered offensive, rude or disrespectful. A public hug is less offensive, especially if greeting a spouse or family member you haven't seen in a while.

You will notice male-to-male kissing on the cheeks when Egyptian men meet their friends, family, or someone they know well: this is not to be confused with homosexuality. Less commonly, some Egyptian men like to walk next to their male friend with their arms attached together like a loop inside another loop. Again, this is not homosexual behaviour.

Other issues

Do not photograph people without their permission, and in areas frequented by tourists do not be surprised if a tip is requested. Smoking is very common and cigarettes are very cheap in Egypt.

Most Egyptians tend to have a loud voice when they speak, which is common to some other countries in the region. They are not shouting, but you will know the difference.

Take great care if you choose to drink alcohol ( see above ), especially if you're from countries where heavy drinking is accepted. Even if you are used to it, you can't estimate the effects of the climate, even at night. The impact drunk people have on Egyptians is quite large and very negative. The best plan is just to abstain or limit yourself to one drink per meal while in Egypt; it will be cheaper too.

Sensitive issues

Egyptians, like Greeks, Russians, and Turks, take great pride in their country's history and are proud of what their country has given to the world. Praising the country's history or having a positive discussion about it is a quick ticket to getting on someone's good side.

Gamal Abdul Nasser, the second President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, and many others are considered national heroes in Egypt; you should say absolutely nothing that could be perceived as offensive or derogatory regarding him.

Many Egyptians have a different interpretation concerning ambiguous expressions such as freedom of speech and democracy. It is advisable not to discuss Israel even if tempted; do not speak loudly about it as it may attract unwanted attention, even if you are only talking about it as a travel destination.

Egypt has a reasonably modern telephone service including four GSM mobile service providers. The mobile phone providers are Vodafone, Etisalat, We and Orange. According to OpenSignal all of them are similarly good. Actual 4G download speeds are around 15 MBit/s. Vodafone has the most consistent network quality. If you plan to visit rather remote areas, also Vodafone has the widest 4G coverage. (updated September 2022)

Mobile Internet SIM cards can be bought for around €5/US$5 (Dec 2022) including 10 GB for 1 month at the airport or for around LE130 per 8GB in the city. As of April 2021 a SIM card with 18GB was USD10 at the Hurghada airport.

Roaming services are provided, although you should check with your service provider.

Internet access is easy to find and cheap, and often free. Nowadays, most coffee shops, restaurants, hotel lobbies and other locations now provide free WiFi. Connections can be unsafe and under surveillance, try to use a proxy or VPN for your privacy.

Tourism and locals

The mentality of many Egyptians you will encounter as a tourist is that after driving recklessly, not doing any extra tour stops and stressing you at the sights about the time, the tour driver will still demand a tip from its passengers. In many touristy areas, like Luxor , they show no scruples in getting money out of you. Hence, always be aware when accepting small "favours", as these often come at a hefty price. Of course, this behaviour is largely driven by the state of the economy and the fact the tourism is a big income generator for many Egyptians. Nevertheless, it can greatly spoil your experience of Egypt.

So, it is best to be prepared. Some rules:

• Only rely on one person for one service at a time. Do not let your taxi driver, hotel boy, tour guide, etc., organise anything beyond the original agreed service. Otherwise, they will always try to cash in from you.
• When accepting a service, clarify what is included and what not, and whether there will be any extra costs beyond the agreed price. Always make them put it writing and give it to you!
• Do not let yourself get intimidated. Many hotels, tours, and such can be rated online; this is your joker, use it and clearly stand your ground.
• If you are on a tour and something does not go according to the agreement, speak out to the tour guide in front of the other tour passengers, they might feel the same way and be on your side, which is very likely considering the constant hassling in Egypt.
• When organising your own tour with a driver or guide, only pay at the end. This will give you greater control over what you pay for and how much money you part company with.

Despite those points, be patient if in the end you do get scammed - tours will often change hotels last moment, hotels will often prepare one tour itinerary and do another, guides will often take you to their friend's store and taxi drivers will often say one price and settle for another at the end of trip. Being patient but firm will save you from a ruined holiday!

However, once you get out of the touristy environment, people are very friendly and helpful—they might even pay for your train ticket if you do not have small change ready. Nevertheless, getting out of the cycle of hassle is difficult because most things you will want to see and experience are unfortunately touristy.

Package tours

If you are a reasonably individual traveller, try to avoid package tours or organised trips, even one-day tours. They are overpriced, poor value for money, do not appreciate your needs, have a tight and mostly unbendable schedule, and are very often a door-opener to additional hassle and money-making. Many tours demand additional payments for camels, local guides, boat trips, etc., which are offered along the way—seemingly for a fair price, but mostly your tour guide will cash in, and they are twice the price you would pay without the guide's involvement. Other tours are half travel and half enforced shopping spree, where you are pushed into seeing papyrus or oil shops. If you complain, be prepared for a very angry tour guide. In addition, you are rushed through the sights and history without any time for digestion. While such tours might suit some travellers, other will find them deeply disappointing, annoying and stressful. If you want to experience the real Egypt besides all-inclusive tourism and bus tours, it is better to rent a taxi (with several people or even alone), go by train or just wander around for not so distant attraction. As explained under #Cope , overall Egypt is a safe place to do so.

Eastern Arabic numbers

Although it will be impossible to learn Arabic for just one or few trips to Egypt, it is wise to know at least the Eastern Arabic numbers. This will spare you a great deal of rip-offs, and you will even be capable of boarding the right carriage of your train.

There are a number of options for washing clothes whilst travelling in Egypt:

By far the easiest, most practical, and not at all expensive, is to arrange for your hotel to have your washing done for you. By prior arrangement, clothes left on the bed or handed in at reception will be returned to you by evening freshly laundered and pressed.

Determined self-helpers can persist with hand-washing or finding one of the many "hole-in-the-wall" laundries where the staff will wash and press your clothes manually; a fascinating process in itself. Just be aware that your clothes will probably smell of cigarette smoke when returned.

Cairo possesses a few basic Western-style laundromats in areas where foreigners and tourists reside, but they are virtually nonexistent elsewhere in the country. Some hotels in tourist towns like Luxor and Dahab offer a washing machine service in a back room, the machines are usually primitive affairs and you'll be left with the task of wringing and ironing your clothes yourself.

Unfortunately Egypt is blighted by large amounts of litter. Expect to see piles of plastic rubbish along the sides of roads, in rivers and canals and in any other space where people feel they can discard what they cannot be bothered to dispose of properly. Egypt is a candidate for the dirtiest country in the world. The large amount of litter also means that there can be many flies to bother you.

When packing, it may be useful to consider that tampons are at least very hard to find or maybe not sold at all in Egypt as of 2022.

Most toilets are under-maintained (to put it lightly) - expect no toilet paper rolls and people offering you the "service" of toilet paper at the entry, at times no water to flush with. Especially, but not only, the tourist sites are a "must-do" for you to bring toilet paper, as they are isolated caravans/huts with thousands of people visiting and little hygiene.

In most cases toilet paper shouldn't be flushed because it can block the sewer paper, it should rather be thrown in provided waste baskets.

Cafés often don't have toilets, sometimes they have only urinals for male users.

• Cruises to Israel , Cyprus , Lebanon and Turkey are popular.
• Egypt also has direct land borders with Israel , Libya and Sudan , but check current security conditions at and near the crossings and in the countries in question before you go.
• While it may seem feasible to enter into the Gaza Strip from Egypt, Egypt participates in the Israeli blockade of the strip so the border is indefinitely closed.

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A practical guide to travel in Egypt, from tipping culture to independent touring

From packing tips to advice on haggling, here’s everything you need to know while planning your trip.

Whether you want to sail down the Nile on a felucca, explore ancient temples, browse the museums of Cairo or go trekking in Sinai, there are a few things to bear in mind when planning your trip to Egypt. Here’s what to be aware of when it comes to visas, tipping, guides and more.

Do I need a visa?

Almost all travellers, including visitors from the UK and the EU, need a visa to travel to Egypt. While it’s possible to get a visa on arrival, it saves time at the airport if you apply online in advance. A single-entry tourist visa costs US$25 (£20). If you plan to stay in the resort towns in Sinai for fewer than 15 days, you do not need a visa. Instead, you receive a ‘permission stamp’ in your passport when you land at Sharm el-Sheikh International Airport. While this option is a money saver, the list of places you’re permitted to visit is quite limited — even Ras Mohamed National Park at the southern tip of Sinai is off limits without the full visa.

What should I pack?

Egypt is a majority Muslim country, so it’s respectful for travellers to dress modestly. For all genders, this means covering everything between your shoulders and knees. You will likely be asked to cover up more if you visit a mosque or church.

The tap water is not safe to drink here so bring a water bottle with a filter, such as those from Lifestraw .

Wi-fi ranges from infuriatingly slow to nonexistent across the country, even at five-star hotels. Get mobile data through your service provider at home or buy an Egyptian SIM card when you land at the airport.

Can I pay by card in Egypt?

Cash reigns supreme but you can use a card at some higher-end hotels and restaurants. Take some Egyptian pounds out of a cash machine when you arrive, but be mindful of the fluctuating exchange rate and don’t take more out than you need. For bigger expenses, consider bringing US dollars, the most — and sometimes only — accepted foreign currency.

Tipping, called baksheesh, infiltrates almost every interaction you’ll have. It’s customary to tip nearly everyone you come in contact with, even for services you don’t want or require. Keep small change on hand for toilet attendants, porters, mosque caretakers and guards at temples and tombs.

Should I join a tour or travel independently?

Egypt has been a package-tour destination since the days of Thomas Cook, who first led a group to Egypt in 1869. The country is well set up for tour groups, and many first-time visitors find this option easiest, with guides and transport logistics arranged for you. Egypt’s historic sites have little signage, making a tour guide a necessity for deeper understanding.

Nile cruises generally run between Luxor and Aswan in both directions, but a few make the long journey from Cairo. Trains, planes and buses connect cities along the Nile, and buses or internal flights can take you to the Red Sea coast.

For Hungry Minds

Related topics.

• ANCIENT HISTORY
• ANCIENT EGYPT
• CITY GUIDES

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Egypt Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Egypt. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions

• Updated   Global Polio April 26, 2024 Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Destination List: Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Guinea, Indonesia, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, including Zanzibar, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Egypt.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Egypt. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Egypt.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

In Egypt, poliovirus has been identified in the past year.

Travelers to Egypt are at increased risk of exposure to poliovirus if: 1) they work in health care settings involving direct patient contact, 2) assist in refugee camps or other humanitarian aid settings, OR 3) have limited access to clean drinking water and sanitation .

Vaccine recommendations : Adults traveling to Egypt who received a complete polio vaccination series as children, and are at increased risk of exposure to poliovirus, may receive a single lifetime booster dose of inactivated polio vaccine; travelers who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated should receive a complete polio vaccination series before travel. Children who are not fully vaccinated will be considered for an accelerated vaccination schedule .

Polio - CDC Yellow Book

Polio: For Travelers

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Egypt. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Egypt, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Egypt. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

African tick-bite fever.

• Avoid Bug Bites

African Tick-bite fever

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby
• Avoid animals

Rift Valley Fever

• Touching blood, body fluids, or tissue of infected livestock

Rift Valley fever

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

• Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
• Avoid domestic and wild poultry
• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Egypt, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Egypt. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Egypt include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Egypt. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Egypt’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Egypt may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Egypt, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Egypt for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Egypt set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Consulate General for Egypt in the UK .

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must be valid for 6 months from the date you arrive. Check with your travel provider to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet their requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

Visa requirements

British passport holders travelling to Egypt normally need a visa. Visa processing fees are non-refundable.

We advise you to get a visa before you travel, particularly if travelling for work or business. You can apply for a visa from the official Visa2Egypt portal or at your nearest Egyptian Consulate . Tourist visas granted using the e-visa system are valid for a maximum of 3 months.

The online e-visa portal (Visa2Egypt) does not currently accept applications from variant British passport holders (those from British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies).

All British passport holders can get a visa in advance by submitting an application in person or by post to the Egyptian Consulate in London . The specific requirements for the visa are listed on the website.

Alternatively, if you wish to get a visa on arrival, you can do so at approved bank kiosks within airport arrival halls, before reaching immigration counters. The visa fee is 25 US dollars, payable in dollars as the preferred currency, although you may also be able to pay in pounds sterling or euros. Visas granted on arrival are valid for a maximum of 30 days. There’s no need to buy a visa from an agent. In many cases agents will charge more than US$25 for a visa. If you’re harassed by an agent, report the incident to the tourist police in the airport terminal.

If you’re travelling to Sharm el Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba and Taba resorts for up to 15 days, you will receive a free entry permission stamp on arrival. If you intend to travel out of these areas or stay longer than 15 days, you must get a visa.

If you have travelled to one of the South Sinai Red Sea resorts, entered without a visa and your plans have changed, you can normally purchase a visa at Sharm el Sheikh airport to allow you to travel elsewhere.

Applications for visa extensions should be made at Egyptian Passport and Immigration Offices. You may have difficulties leaving Egypt with an out of date visa. You will normally have to pay a fine if your visa is out of date by more than 14 days.

For further information and enquiries, contact the Egyptian Consulate in London .

Visa extensions

Apply for visa extensions at the Egyptian Passport and Immigration Offices. You may face difficulties if you try to leave Egypt on an expired visa. You may be fined if your visa has expired by more than 14 days.

Contact the Egyptian Consulate in London for more information.

Visas at the Egypt-Sudan Border Crossing

If you’re crossing the border from Sudan, the Egyptian authorities have advised it is still possible to get a visa on arrival for the regular cost of 25 US dollars.

HIV test for work permits

You will need to show your result from a HIV test to apply for a work permit.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need on TravelHealthPro’s Egypt guide . Depending on the country you’re arriving from, this may include a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Egypt . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

You’re allowed to bring in or take out up to 5,000 Egyptian pounds. There is no limit to the amount of hard currency that you can bring in, but you must declare it when you arrive if it’s worth more than 10,000 US dollars.

You must also declare certain valuables, including electrical equipment or video cameras, when you arrive. These will be noted in your passport. You may be asked to show these items again when you leave the country. If you do not have them on you, you may have to pay a high rate of customs duty.

Officials are likely to confiscate satellite phones or radio communications equipment unless you have prior clearance from the Ministry of Telecommunications.

Contact the Egyptian embassy in your country of residence for further information on customs requirements

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Latest update

Reconsider your need to travel to Egypt overall due to the threat of terrorism.

Other levels apply in some areas.

Egypt (PDF 261.26 KB)

Africa (PDF 1.68 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services.

Call 180 or 123.

Medical emergencies

Call 122, 123 or contact the local police.

Advice levels

Reconsider your need to travel to Egypt overall.

Do not travel to within 50km of Egypt's border with Libya, the Governorate of North Sinai, including the Taba-Suez Road.

Do not travel to:

• within 50km of Egypt's border with Libya due to the high risk of terrorist attack
• the Governorate of North Sinai, including the Taba-Suez Road due to the high risk of terrorist attack and violent crime.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Sharm El Sheikh.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Sharm El Sheikh due to the risk of terrorist attack.

• An increased threat of military and terrorist attacks against Israel and Israeli interests across the region and ongoing military action in the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions in other locations in the Middle East. Demonstration and protest activity may occur, and localised security situations could deteriorate with little notice. Avoid all demonstrations and protests. 
• Increased tensions in the Middle East may result in airspace closures, flight cancellations and diversions, and other travel disruptions. 

There's a high threat of terrorist attacks and violent crime in the Governorate of North Sinai.

• The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt may be closed or have highly restricted access for long periods and is subject to change at short notice. It has been subject to air strikes during the current conflict.
• Terrorists have attacked popular tourist locations, resulting in deaths and injuries. More attacks are likely. Be alert to possible threats.
• Terrorist groups in Egypt have targeted Christians in recent years. Take care, particularly during major religious periods and at religious sites.
• You're at risk of kidnapping in Egypt. Take extra precautions. 
• Violent crime can happen. Take extra care if you're a woman and alone. Don't leave valuables unsecured in your hotel room or unattended in a public place. 
• Women, particularly foreigners, are frequently subject to unwelcome male attention.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Infectious diseases are common. These include hepatitis, filariasis and rabies. Only drink boiled or bottled water. Avoid contact with dogs and cats.
• Don't swim in fresh water, including the Nile River, to avoid waterborne diseases such as bilharzia (schistosomiasis).
• Dengue and malaria are present. Use insect repellent and make sure your accommodation is insect-proof.
• Cairo can have very high levels of pollution and dust. If you suffer from breathing difficulties or a lung condition, seek medical advice before travel.

Full travel advice: Health

• Making public comments that criticise the Egyptian government, security forces, or Islam can be illegal. Police have arrested foreign visitors who posted critical social media.
• There are severe consequences for carrying illegal drugs, including the death penalty, long prison sentences or deportation.
• You need approval to bring satellite phones and radio communications equipment into Egypt. Apply to the  Ministry of Communications and Information Technology  before you leave. The use of drones is illegal.
• Egyptian family law differs significantly from Australian law. Before you become involved in a local legal matter, get legal advice, including on family and business legal matters.
• Although same-sex relationships are not explicitly criminalised in Egypt, the charge of 'debauchery' has been used to prosecute LGBTI people. There is little public acceptance of homosexuality in Egypt. Avoid public displays of affection. 
• Sex outside of marriage is illegal. Dress standards are very conservative, particularly for women. Wear modest clothes that cover your legs and upper arms.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Egypt for the latest details.
• Foreign journalists need accreditation from the Egyptian Press Centre before arrival. There are severe punishments for journalists working without accreditation.
• There are landmines in some areas. Get advice from local authorities before you travel.
• Australian-Egyptian dual nationals are treated as Egyptian. This will limit your access to consular assistance. Always travel on your  Australian passport  if possible. This doesn't mean you will receive special treatment in terms of local law.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter tells you what the Australian government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.
• For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Cairo . 
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Although the greatest terrorist threat is in North Sinai, terrorist attacks could occur anywhere in Egypt. Potential targets include:

• religious sites 
• tourist locations

Terrorist groups have targeted Christians and their places of worship in recent years. 

Take particular care:

• during major religious periods
• at holiday festivals
• at religious observances
• at religious sites

In the past, terrorists have attacked several popular tourist locations. People have been killed or injured.

Most tourist sites and places of worship have a strong security presence.

On 30 December 2022, there was an attack targeting security forces in the city of Ismailia, west of the Suez Canal.

On 4 August 2019, at least 20 people were killed by a car bomb in central Cairo.

In May 2019 and December 2018, bomb attacks on tour buses near the Giza pyramids killed and injured foreign tourists and a local tour guide.

More attacks are likely.

Previously, terrorists have set off small explosions in Cairo and throughout Egypt. People have been killed and injured, including bystanders. The attacks usually target security forces at:

• government buildings
• police facilities and checkpoints
• metro stations and trains
• universities

Possible targets for future attacks include:

• embassies and polling places
• hotels, holiday resorts, clubs, restaurants and bars
• banks, markets, shopping centres, supermarkets, cinemas and theatres
• schools and places of worship
• public transport, shipping ports and other infrastructure
• outdoor recreation events, commercial, public and tourist areas

The greatest terrorist threat is in the Northern Sinai, where militant groups operate more freely. However, terrorists are active in other parts of Sinai and mainland Egypt, including Cairo.

Cooperate fully with security officials at airports and observe any additional security measures.

Sinai Province of the Islamic State and other extremist groups have made threats using social media and online statements. Their threats target Western nationals, institutions, and businesses in Egypt.

To reduce your risk of being a victim of terrorism, be alert to possible threats, especially:

• at tourist locations, religious sites, and crowded public places
• near police checkpoints and government buildings

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• consider the level of security at places you plan to visit
• have a clear exit plan in case of a security incident
• report suspicious activity or items to the police
• monitor the media for new or emerging threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the affected area as soon as it's safe. Continue to avoid the area in case of secondary attacks.

South Sinai

Attacks in South Sinai have included suicide bombings. Terrorists have also kidnapped foreign nationals.

Many bombings directly targeted tourists and their transport.

If you travel to South Sinai:

• avoid road travel outside of Sharm El Sheikh
• allow extra time to clear airport security
• contact your airline or travel agent for concerns about the security or safety of aircraft servicing Sharm El Sheikh
• have contingency plans and personal security measures in place

Governorate of North Sinai

There's a high threat of terrorist attacks and violent crime in the Governorate of North Sinai, including the Taba-Suez Road. Do not travel to North Sinai.

Terrorists or criminals could target you, or you might be included in violence directed at others.

North Sinai is under a long-term state of emergency.

In North Sinai:

• terrorist attacks occur frequently
• many personnel from Egyptian security forces have died
• a dusk-to-dawn curfew is in place from 7pm to 6am

The border crossing to Gaza at Rafah is closed most of the time. It's only open for short periods on an irregular basis. See  Travel

There's a high risk of  kidnapping  in North Sinai.

If, despite our advice, you decide to travel to North Sinai:

• seek professional security advice
• arrange contingency plans and personal security measures
• note that our ability to provide consular assistance may be extremely limited

More information:

Security Situation

The situation in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions and the security situation could deteriorate with little notice. Avoid all demonstrations and protests. Peaceful protests and rallies can turn violent at short notice. Be aware, follow the advice of local authorities and monitor local media for updates.

The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt may be closed or have highly restricted access for long periods and is subject to change at short notice. It has been subject to air strikes during the current conflict.     

In October, drone impacts were reported in Taba, close to Egypt's border with Israel's Red Sea port of Eilat, and in the Red Sea resort town of Nuweiba, north of Dahab. Be alert to possible strikes. Monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.

Civil unrest and political tension

The security situation in the region remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little or no warning.

Be alert and monitor local media for updates.

Demonstrations and protests

Protests can occur across Egypt. 

Clashes between rival protesters or security forces have resulted in many deaths and injuries. Foreigners, including journalists, have been among the victims. Serious  sexual assaults  on women, including foreigners, have occurred during demonstrations.

Security forces have targeted foreign journalists. Egyptian authorities have arrested, detained or questioned journalists.

Protest hotspots

Protests can happen anywhere and at any time, although strict security clampdowns have been preventing protests in recent years. However, the following places and times are common focal points for demonstrations:

• Tahrir Square and surrounding streets, including the nearby British and US Embassies and Garden City area, in Cairo
• the al-Ittihadiya Presidential Palace in Heliopolis, Giza
• the area of the Raba Al-Adawiya Square in Nasr City
• Fridays following midday prayers
• the anniversary of the 2011 revolution on 25 January and the days leading up to this public holiday

Under Egyptian law, it's illegal for:

• more than 10 people to gather without notice
• foreigners to participate in protests and demonstrations

Authorities may arrest foreigners who participate in protests.

Egyptian authorities may impose curfews and restrictions on movement at short notice.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• avoid demonstrations, rallies and large crowds
• monitor the media for possible unrest and avoid those areas
• obey any curfews and respect local laws
• be prepared to change your travel plans

Protests may disrupt transport. Contact your airline or travel agent to check.

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Violent crime

Violent crime is rare but can occur, including  armed robbery ,  sexual assault , incidents involving minors, carjacking and burglary.

Petty crime remains low in Cairo, although the declining economy and ensuing financial hardship have seen reports of increased crime.

Take extra care if you're a woman and alone. Women may be physically and verbally harassed or  assaulted , including when using public transport and walking in public areas.

Ensure children and young people are always accompanied by known or trusted people and not left alone with hotel or entertainment/excursion staff. If you feel uncomfortable, leave the area and seek help from the hotel or local authorities. The Tourist Police can be contacted on 126 or 122 if you're a resident of Egypt.  

Taxi and rideshare drivers have assaulted passengers, including foreigners. See  Travel

To protect yourself from violent crime:

• don't leave valuables outside a safe in your hotel room or unattended in a public place
• be alert to pickpockets and bag snatchers in tourist areas, particularly after dark
• read  reducing the risk of sexual assault  before you go

If you're the victim of a crime, report the incident to the tourist police immediately.

If you don't report a crime before you leave, you may not be able to seek prosecution later.

• Advice for women

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information: 

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Kidnapping is a risk for travellers.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Tours and adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards.

If you plan to do an adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• check tours are well equipped with food, medical supplies and emergency communications
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Safaris and camping

Authorities have banned safaris and camping in the area near Bahariya Oasis until further notice. This includes the western and southern parts of Oases–Siwa and Oases Road.

It doesn't include the White Desert in Farafra. However, restrictions applying to Bahriya Oasis may disrupt access.

Climate and natural disasters

Egypt, particularly Cairo, experiences earthquakes . Find out about local safety procedures in case one strikes.

Sand and dust storms occur between March and May.

If a natural disaster occurs, follow the advice of local authorities.

Find out about emerging natural disasters from the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System .

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Egypt. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

• Infectious diseases

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common, including these listed by the World Health Organization:

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• don't swim in fresh water, including the Nile River, to avoid waterborne diseases, such as  bilharzia (schistosomiasis)  (World Health Organization)
• avoid contact with dogs and cats

Get urgent medical attention if bitten by an animal.

Insect-borne diseases

There's a risk of  malaria  (World Health Organization) in El Faiyum Governorate from June through to October.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Air pollution

Cairo regularly experiences very high levels of air pollution and dust.

Get medical advice if you suffer from breathing difficulties or a lung condition.

• Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency Air Quality Forecast

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical facilities in Cairo is enough for routine illnesses. Elsewhere, facilities can be very basic. Treatment can also be costly. Many require up-front payment.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive and hard to organise. Ensure you have sufficient travel insurance to cover the costs.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Criticising authority

Authorities may treat public comments that criticise the Egyptian Government, security forces or Islam as illegal. Police have arrested foreigners who published critical social media posts, including 'liking' pages.

Possessing illegal drugs can lead to the death penalty, long prison sentences or deportation.

• Carrying or using drugs

Egyptian family law differs significantly from Australian law, particularly in relation to divorce, child custody and support.

Before you become involved in a local legal matter, get legal advice, including for family and business legal matters.

It's important to know your rights and responsibilities under Egyptian law. See  Travel

Marriage laws

If you want to get married in Egypt, check the legal requirements before you travel. You can do this either through the  Australian Embassy in Cairo  or the  Egyptian Embassy in Canberra .

In Egypt, it's illegal to:

• have sexual relations outside marriage
• take photos of bridges and canals, including the Suez Canal
• take photos of military personnel, buildings or equipment

The Egyptian Government doesn't interfere with the practice of Christianity, but preaching is illegal. If you're considering preaching in Egypt, seek local legal advice beforehand. Follow the advice of local authorities. 

LGBTI individuals face significant social stigma and discrimination in Egypt. Egyptian law does not explicitly criminalise same-sex relationships, however, people have been charged with 'committing an indecent act in public and breaching public morality' and penalised with imprisonment. 

LGBTI people and advocacy groups have reported harassment, intimidation, arrests, and other forms of abuse, including by police. 

There are also reports that authorities have used social media, dating websites, and mobile phone apps to entrap people suspected of being gay or transgender in the act of 'debauchery,' which is a criminal offence that carries severe sentences. 

There is little public acceptance of homosexuality in Egypt.

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

If you're an Australian-Egyptian dual national, local authorities will treat you as an Egyptian, even if you travel on an Australian passport.

This limits our consular services if you're arrested or detained.

If possible, always travel on your  Australian passport .

Dual nationals living in Egypt for long periods need proof of Egyptian citizenship, such as a national identification card.

Male dual nationals who haven't completed military service usually don't need to enlist. However, they must get an exemption certificate before they can leave Egypt. Get one from the nearest  Egyptian embassy, consulate , or Ministry of Defence Draft Office.

If you're arrested, request local authorities inform the Australian Embassy.

Dual nationals

Local customs

The Islamic holiday month of  Ramadan  is observed in Egypt. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws during this time.

Avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public or in front of people who are fasting.

Orthodox Easter is observed by the Christian community, as is Christmas Day, which is celebrated on 7 January in Egypt.

The work week is Sunday to Thursday. Egypt's customs, laws, and regulations follow Islamic practices and beliefs. Exercise common sense and discretion in dress and behaviour.

Dress conservatively. Knee-length or longer dresses and long sleeves are preferable for women, and men should not wear shorts outside tourist areas. Respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities. Overt public displays of intimate affection are frowned upon in Egyptian culture.

If in doubt, seek local advice.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate  of Egypt for the latest details.

Check with your travel provider for the latest information and monitor the travel advice of the country you are planning to transit. There are no direct flights to Australia, but there are flights via a transit hub to Australia.

• Egypt Electronic Visa Portal

Children of Egyptian fathers must have their father's approval to leave Egypt. Authorities may ask for proof of this approval before allowing the children to leave.

Other formalities

Journalist accreditation.

Foreign journalists must get accreditation from the Egyptian Press Centre  before arrival. You need this if your visit is for work purposes. The Press Centre is part of the Egyptian State Information Service.

Punishments are severe for journalists working without accreditation.

You need approval to bring satellite phones and radio communications equipment into Egypt.

Apply to Egypt's Ministry of Communications and Information Technology well in advance of your trip. Authorities are likely to confiscate equipment brought in without clearance.

The use of drones, for any purpose, is illegal. Authorities will confiscate drones on arrival.

Pest control

If you arrive in Egypt by road, officials may check your car for pests. Follow the advice of local authorities.

Yellow fever vaccination

You need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Egypt if you arrive from a country where yellow fever is widespread.

Countries where yellow fever is a risk

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the  nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTI travellers

The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP).

You can take up to EGP 5000 in cash when travelling to or from Egypt.

You must declare all foreign currency amounts over $US 10,000 or equivalent. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

If you're visiting as a tourist, you may need to pay $US or euros for your accommodation. Most well-established hotels and resorts accept card payments. ATMs are available in most established areas.

Consult your financial institution prior to your travel.

Embassy or Consulate of Egypt

Local travel

Consider the security situation and risks to your safety in different locations. See  Safety

There are landmines in some areas, notably:

• the desert areas around El Alamein
• stretches of coastline near Mersa Matruh
• the western shore of the Gulf of Suez
• the Sinai Peninsula

Before you go, tell local authorities of your planned travel. Ask them about current risks and precautions for your route and destination.

Travel restrictions and disruptions

If you travel around Egypt, you may be stopped at military and civilian checkpoints. Officials at checkpoints have detained and harassed foreigners.

Rules apply to people entering the Sinai, including via the Ahmed Hamdi tunnel. When you enter, you must present one of the following:

• a valid form of ID with a Sinai address
• proof of ownership or rental contracts of property in the Sinai
• hard copy evidence of hotel reservations

Travel to the Sinai in a 4WD vehicle may be restricted if you don't hold a valid permit. Check the advice of local authorities before travel. 

Land borders

Egypt's borders are under military control.

The military restricts and, in some cases, bans the movement of civilians and vehicles.

You need permission to cross borders off the main sealed roads, including at the borders with Libya, Sudan, Israel and parts of the Sinai. Get permission from the Travel Permits Department of the Egyptian Ministry of the Interior.

If, despite our advice, you plan to cross from Egypt into the Gaza strip:

• read our advice on  Israel, the Gaza Strip and the West Bank
• check border crossing requirements with your nearest  Egyptian embassy  or the Ministry of the Interior in Cairo

You must get permission from Egyptian authorities to enter and exit the Gaza Strip using the Rafah border crossing.

If you enter the Gaza Strip through this border, you must leave the same way.

You may be delayed in the Gaza Strip for a long time, possibly weeks while waiting for approval to return.

The Australian Government can't influence the granting of approval or when the crossing will open. Our ability to provide consular help in Gaza is extremely limited.

Other borders

Road travel to Abu Simbel, 40km north of the Sudanese border, can be dangerous. If you do, go on an organised tour guarded by police escorts.

There's a high threat of terrorist attacks within 50km of Egypt's border with Libya. Deadly attacks have recently occurred in the area.

Driving permit

You can't drive in Egypt on your Australian driver's licence.

Before arriving in Egypt, get an international driver's permit and get an  embassy or consulate of Egypt  to certify it.

Road travel

Road travel can be dangerous. 

Road conditions are very poor. Cars, buses and trucks frequently drive at high speed and without headlights at night.

Road accidents occur often.

Where possible, avoid travelling by road. Visit regional places, including Luxor, by other means.

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Take extra care if you plan to ride a motorbike. Be alert to the different road conditions.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis and Rideshare

Cairo and Alexandria have a lot of taxis. Rideshare services are available in Cairo and Alexandria.

In Cairo, taxis are white. In Alexandria, taxis are black and yellow.

All taxis should have a meter. The law requires drivers to use their meters. However, many taxi drivers will claim that the meter is broken and try to negotiate a fare.

Taxis rarely have seatbelts, especially in the back seats. 

Sexual harassment of women by taxi drivers is common.

Avoid taxis, especially if you're a woman and on your own. Ride share apps may be safer as you can track your driver's details and share the trip details with others.

If you use a taxi, travel with people you know or advise others of your planned travel and destination.

Public transport

The Cairo Metro subway system is generally reliable.

Maintenance and safety standards of other public road and rail transport are very poor.

• Transport and getting around safely

Rail travel

Train travel is generally safe, but accidents do occur.

In March and April 2021, two train accidents occurred in North and South Egypt. The accidents caused many deaths and injuries.

There have been a number of train derailments on the Cairo-Aswan line. Several people were injured when a train derailed between Aswan and Luxor in 2016.

Piracy  and  armed robbery  are risks in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

All forms of shipping are attractive targets for pirates. This includes commercial vessels, pleasure craft and luxury cruise liners.

The  International Maritime Bureau  issues piracy reports.

If you plan to  travel by boat , be highly alert and cautious in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

Scuba diving / aquatic activities

Sharks and other potentially dangerous aquatic animals are in the waters off Egypt. Certain beaches and dive areas may be subject to temporary closures. Exercise caution and seek advice from local authorities. Ensure you dive with reputable and licensed operators.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Egypt's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact:

Australian Embassy, Cairo

11th floor, World Trade Centre 1191 Corniche el Nil Boulac, Cairo, Egypt

Phone: +20 2 2770 6600 Fax: +20 2 2770 6650 Website: egypt.embassy.gov.au Facebook: Australia in Egypt X: @AusAmbEGY

The Australian Embassy in Cairo operates on Sunday – Thursday.

The security situation may affect Embassy opening hours. 

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Egypt?

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10 Days in Egypt (Cairo and a Nile Cruise around Luxor and Aswan)

• Cairo In 4 Days
• Coptic Churches (7 Churches of Old Cairo) Tour
• Salah Eldin Citadel, Mosques of Muhammad Ali / Sultan Hassan / Al-Rifa’i and Khan Al-Khalili Full Day Tour

Egyptian Museum, Salah Eldin Citadel and Khan Al-Khalili Full Day Tour

Memphis, saqqara and dahshur pyramids full day tour, pyramids, sphinx, memphis and sakkara full day tour, pyramids, sphinx, museum and khan al-khalili full day tour, the pharaonic village full day tour.

• Pyramids and Sphinx Tour

Memphis and Saqqara Half Day Tour

• Sound and Light Pyramids Show – Half Day
• Egyptian Museum Half Day Tour
• Half Day Nile Dinner

Cairo Airport Transfer

• Maldives/Dubai Honeymoon Offer
• Entry Visa Requirements for Egyptians
• Create Your Trip with Empire Travel
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• احجز عمرتك مع إمباير
• برامج الحج لعام 1444هـ /2023 م
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In accordance with recent government regulations in Egypt: 

ONLY flights DEPARTING from EGYPTIAN AIRPORTS are currently available for booking through our website. 

Empire Travel offers a wide variety of services all around Egypt as a travel agency and a tour operator. We offer private tours using our own top of the line vehicles with professional experienced drivers and egyptologist tour guides with many years of expertise in their field. 

We have been operating in Egypt since 1987 , so rest assured that you are in good hands when it comes to anything Egypt! 

No matter what hospitality service you might need, we can definitely provide it for you. We offer transfers, airport assistance, private tours, hotel, and flight bookings, and more !

We offer you complete comprehensive tailor-made programs with a custom itinerary, starting from your arrival at the airport in Egypt to your last departure point.

One of our finest tour guides speaking your language ( all languages available ) will lead you on an unforgettable Egyptian journey.

Contact us with any questions you might have and we will quickly get back to you.

Our Services

Popular Tours

Salah Eldin Citadel, Mosques of Muhammad Ali / Sultan Hassan / Al-Rifa’i and Khan Al-Khalili Full Day Tour

Important Note

Please note that the website is getting restructured and rates published are under review. Use the enquiry form and we will get back to you with the updated rates. Thank you for understanding!

COVID-19 Updates

Do i need to take a pcr test before visiting egypt.

It is mandatory to have a valid negative PCR test result. No country is exempted from this rule as of today.

The test with has to be taken within 72 hours of taking the last flight to Egypt. Some exceptions are made for some flights, where the timeframe can be 96 hours. (Japan / China / Thailand / North America / South America / Canada / London (Heathrow) /Rome / Paris / Frankfurt / New Zealand / Australia/South Korea)

It has to be an original stamped certificate, from an accredited laboratory, in Arabic or English, and includes the exact time of the test.

Children under the age of 6 are exempted. 

*Make sure you contact us before making any travel plans regarding any new regulation updates*

Do I have to be quarantined upon arrival?

No quarantine is needed when visiting Egypt during the pandemic. The only mandatory rule is the PCR test result and of course it is very important to follow the safety measures during your visit such as social distancing and making sure you always wear a mask in crowded areas or indoors.

Do I need a vaccination in order to enter Egypt?

As of now, you do not need it .

The government hasn’t issued an official statement yet but as vaccines become readily available throughout the world, we believe things will change and you might need to have a valid proof of being properly vaccinated against the coronavirus. All countries are going towards this direction to end the pandemic and we advise you to take the vaccine as soon as it’s possible where you live.

What are the precautions taken in Egypt regarding COVID-19?

• You have to wear your mask in public areas and during transportation, and only take if off when you really need to, for example if you are eating or drinking.
• All travelers must have a valid travel insurance certificate upon arrival.
• You need to maintain social distancing and keep at least a 1-meter distance from the person closest to you.

GENERAL FAQ

What languages are widely spoken in egypt.

While the official language of the country is Arabic , most locals will be able to understand English as it’s the second language for many. 

Most Egyptians will be able to understand basic English , and a lot of locals fluently speak it, specially people working in tourism like our tour guides, and of course hotel staff.

English is the most common second language taught in schools, preceding French and German being less common. 

Some areas like Hurghada for example, have locals speaking different languages like basic Russian and German as the majority of tourists are from Russian and German backgrounds.

Empire Travel and other companies will be able to provide guests with the right tour guide speaking their language, whatever that language may be. 

Do I need an entry visa to enter Egypt?

The entry visa can be taken on arrival at the airport for most nationalities. It costs $25 (as of May 2021). 

You can also apply online to have it in possession before departure or find out if your nationality requires an application beforehand through the official website here.

Is it a good idea to rent a car for my trip?

You can rent a car and drive around Egypt at your own pace, if you have a valid international driving license. 

We advise not to do that, though. The main reason is the nature of driving in Egypt. 

If you are used to driving in countries like the US and Canada; countries with high road conditions standards, then it will be very challenging for you to get used to the driving environment in Egypt. While main roads are safe, some side roads are bumpy and the way of driving is different (cars are very close to each other, and sometimes drivers don’t follow the rules of sticking to a certain lane, etc.)

If you are booking your trip with a travel company like Empire Travel , then the company will provide you with it’s own transportation and a private professional driver, and it shall be included in your program/itinerary by default, also keep in mind that the accompanying private tour guide/egyptologist can answer questions about the place you’re visiting or other questions about the city.

It’s recommended, if you are not using a travel agent’s services, to use applications like Uber and Careem for your trips, if you need a ride.

On a side note; navigation apps like Google Maps and other software are very accurate and will get you to your destination, or provide you with correct information about a certain place, ETA, reviews and live traffic conditions.

How much cash do I need for my visit? And where can I use my credit cards?

Credit card payments are available in most places around Egypt, specially hotels, restaurants, malls, and other major outlets. ( Visa and MasterCard are the main two accepted types of credit cards. American Express , Diner’s Club and other uncommon cards are not widely accepted except in certain hotels and higher end places)

Of course cash is the ultimate method for payments, specially in small outlets like street kiosks (when buying candy, soda, or mineral water, etc.) and tipping for various services. It’s advisable to always keep a good amount of cash in EGP on hand.

Do not exchange currency with strangers, instead opt for official money exchange offices which are widely available in airports, hotels, and main streets (make sure you ask your guide before doing the exchange, as they should know where is the best place to do it.)

Can I drink Alcohol in Egypt?

Alcoholic beverages are served and allowed in Egypt, the legal drinking age is 21.

All 5 star hotels, bars and restaurants offer alcohol on their menu, and you can buy your alcoholic drinks from a lot of places around the country, specially touristic areas.

Not all restaurants or coffeeshops serve alcohol, as it requires a certain license, so ask about the place you are visiting before going if you would like to drink. Touristic cities like Sharm el sheikh, Hurghada, and similar places should have more locations where alcohol is available. 

Do not drink on the streets, as alcohol is usually frowned upon by many locals, being of a muslim background which Alcohol is prohibited to drink.

There are stores with very affordable prices that can even deliver locally brewed alcohol to your doorstep ( Drinkie’s and Cheers are the most common.)

*Note* During the holy month of Ramadan , most of these shops are closed. Hotels and higher end bars and restaurants are the only places allowed to serve exclusively for foreigners, so make sure you have your passport/ID with you to prove you are not Egyptian.

The most common local beer is Stella, also considered the oldest, as it has been available since 1897. You can slo find local Heineken and Sakara, which come right after Stella in order of popularity.

Regarding local wine, you can find a variety of white, rose, and red wine with the most common being Omar Khayam, Grand Marquis, and Ayam.

Egyptian Beer and wine compete internationally as of taste and quality, and much cheaper than international brands. Local Egyptian spirits like Whiskey, Rum and Vodka are not widely liked by many, so it’s preferred to drink international imported brands available in hotels and touristic areas. 

You can buy imported alcohol only from the airport duty free shops, within 48 hours of arrival, where you are allowed 4 one liter bottles if you choose to buy right upon landing, or 3 bottles if you skip the first day.

Is it safe to drink from the tap water in Egypt?

The tap water in Egypt is over chlorinated, and may cause some health problems like diarrhea, if you are not used to it.

We recommend mineral drinking water bottles and avoiding drinking tap water anywhere around the country.

Bottles are available everywhere, and are very cheap. Also note that most places/restaurants do not serve tap water, but instead they use mineral drinking water.

Some Essential Information About Egypt

Many people from all over the world have Egypt on their travel bucket list, yet many people are still not completely sure when it is the best time for their Egyptian adventure. We will  recommend the best locations for each season when you visit Egypt and the pros and cons of each one.

The long-awaited answer is that there is no ‘best time’ to visit Egypt. The land of the Nile is blessed with moderate weather, clear and sunny skies for most of the year. 

Summer from June to September, Egypt experiences its hottest weather. Temperatures can go well over 40 degrees Celsius in Cairo and other destinations. If you’re planning on visiting Egypt in the summer, stay away from the south of the country with flaming hot summers and record-high temperatures. The best place to go in Egypt during the summer is the vibrant resort cities along the coast of the mediterranean sea, including the famous city of Alexandria and specifically the north coast, which is the ultimate summer getaway where you can enjoy the crystal clear waters, white-sand beaches, and cooler climate.

Other summer hotspots include the Red Sea coastal cities like Hurghada, Dahab, Gouna, Sharm El-sheikh, Ras Sudr, and Marsa Alam. Although a little warmer than the mediterranean side, here is where you will find the best in the World diving and snorkeling spots.  They are also known for beach activities during the hot mornings, like kite surfing, paddle boarding, and other water sports.

Winter in Egypt is pretty moderate, especially relative to the harsh and freezing winters experienced by many parts in the world. Winter in Egypt is the best time to explore the Southern cities like Luxor and Aswan, or take a magical cruise along the legendary Nile River. Southern Egypt hosts continuous sunlight, and very warm winters especially during the afternoon. However, it can get pretty chilly in the early morning or late night. We recommend grabbing comfy jackets and scarves for the cool morning and nights.

Best places to visit during the winter is definitely the southern part of Egypt (Upper Egypt), particularly Luxor and Aswan. This is by far the most recommended, all around best choice for anyone who wants to explore the historical attractions and the priceless gems Ancient Egyptians left to amaze everyone with.

The best way to visit both locations and get the most out of your trip is by booking a Nile Cruise. There are many 5 star floating hotel cruisers to choose from. You can opt for a 3, 4, or 7 night cruises where you will have breakfast overlooking the beautiful nile river, visit the highlights of both cities in the morning on professionally guided tours, get a glimpse of the city in the evening, and sleep in your nile-view room while sailing the longest river in Africa. 

The cruise starts from Luxor or Aswan, depending on the schedule and your requested departure date. The usual route is booking a flight from Cairo to the embarkation city and returning from the other, using one round trip flight ticket.

The peak travel season in Egypt runs from October to May, and that’s when most tourist sites get busy with tourists flocking from every corner of the world. The season mostly covers autumn and winter. If you don’t mind a little heat, you can enjoy a crowd-free trip during the off-season times of the year, especially in mid-summer. Traveling during the peak seasons, especially during Christmas and Easter breaks can be a little more expensive than other low seasons, but it will definitely be the best choice when finding where to spend your vacation.

If you’re interested in knowing more and planning your trip to Egypt, get in touch with us now and we’ll reach back with all the details you might need!

Egypt is a very unique destination that caught the interest and curiosity of people from all over the globe, who are eager to visit and explore the historical nation. Despite the fact that Egypt is generally a very safe destinations, and that Egyptians are some of the friendliest people in the world, there are some things you should know while visiting Egypt, to ensure getting the most comfortable and memorable  experience.

It’s recommended not to discuss politics and religion with anyone you don’t know, as these subjects are often very sensitive to some people. Instead, when talking to strangers, you can discuss the local culture, history, and other interesting topics.

Egyptians love hosting tourists from all around the world, and will try to help as much as they can in order for you to get the best experience. Most of Egyptian locals benefit from tourism in one way or another, whether directly or indirectly.

Your tour guide is usually the go-to person when you have any sensitive question, as they know the traditions quite well, and will be able to answer it in a very informative way.

When visiting mosques and churches, make sure you dress modestly, are not wearing shorts or revealing clothes and sometimes a head scarf to wear inside is a nice gesture of respect to the place of worship.

In various visits, you might come across street souvenirs/gifts sellers. If you are not willing to buy something, it’s okay to ignore the sellers. If you decide to consider the merchandise, your tour guide will be able to help you bargain the prices and make sure you are not overpaying for it. 

Tipping “Baksheesh” in Egypt is a very acceptable way of showing gratitude to an offered service. Make sure you are carrying small change in Egyptian Pounds. Asking your guide about what a reasonable amount to tip is recommended, as it differs depending on the service.

Essential words in Arabic:

• Ahlan wa sahlan (Welcome)
• Shokran (Thank You)
• Sabah el kheir (Good Morning)
• Baksheesh (Tip)
• Ma`a el salama (Good Bye)
• Bokra (Tomorrow) – Ennaharda (Today)
• Kolo Tamam (All Good/OK)
• Feloos ( Money )
• Ana / Enta (Me/You)
• Insha’allah (If God wills)
• Kahwwa (Coffee)
• Labban (Milk)
• Helw (Beautiful/Nice)

Egyptian Food

We invite you to try the delicious typical dishes of Egypt, such as: koshari (lentil and rice dish), mahshi (stuffed vegetables), falafael (taameya), and fuul (beans). When it comes to fruit, Egypt is a paradise of fragrant and tasty fruits. Don’t forget to taste the guavas, dates, figs, and large variety of juicy mangos!

Most hotels serve local dishes. The typical Egyptian foods are rice, pita bread (aysh) and fava beans. Special dishes include roasted ground lamb like kebab, vegetable casserole, and stuffed, grilled pigeon. Desserts like Baklava and Basbousa are local favorites. Italian, French and Indian cuisine can be found in hotels and restaurants. Locally brewed beer (stella and Sakkara) and bottled sodas may be found throughout the country. Tea with fresh mint is also a well known drink after a good meal, make sure to try it out!

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The Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum is the oldest archaeological museum in the Middle East and houses the largest collection of Pharaonic antiquities in the world. The museum displays an extensive collection spanning from the Predynastic Period to the Greco-Roman Era.

Luxor Temple, Ipet-resyt “Southern Sanctuary” to the ancient Egyptians, was so called because of its location within ancient Thebes (modern Luxor). It is located around three kilometers to the south of Karnak Temple, to which it was once linked with a processional way bordered with sphinxes. The oldest evidence for this temple dates to the Eighteenth Dynasty (c.1550–1295 BC).

THE COPTIC MUSEM

The Coptic Museum houses the largest collection of Coptic artifacts in the world and was inaugurated in 1910. The museum was established through the efforts of Marcus Simaika Pasha, a prominent Coptic figure who was vested in the preservation of Coptic heritage. Simaika Pasha bought and collected Coptic antiquities and various architectural elements from older churches that were undergoing renovation, and used them to built the museum and establish its collection.

Experience Egypt to the fullest

Procession of royal mummies.

The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities of Egypt has announced the date of the transfer of the royal mummies from the Egyptian Museum of Tahrir to its permanent exhibition site at the Museum of Egyptian Civilization on Saturday, April 3rd.

This event is going to be the first of its kind in the world; to transport 22 royal mummies in a majestic international procession from the place of its current exhibition at the Egyptian Museum in downtown Cairo to its permanent exhibition site at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization in Fustat, south of Cairo.

The event is expected to draw the world’s attention to the greatness of the old Egyptian kings and queens and the legacy of Egyptian civilization. The procession will include 22 royal mummies; 18 mummies of kings, and 4 mummies of queens, namely King Ramses II, Ramses III, Ramses IV, Ramses V, Ramses VI, Ramses VI, Ramses IX, under The second, The Thutmose I, Thutmose III, Thutmose IV, SahunRa, Hatshepsut, Amenhotep I, Amenhotep II, Ahms Nefertari, Merritt Amon, Sattah, Marnebetah, Queen T, City II, CityII”

Soon in Shepherd Travel – “El Dahabia – Nile Cruise” 

• A multi-day, five-star Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor by Shepherd Travel.
• Tick off the region’s top attractions in great places in Egypt in just a few days.
• Listen to in-depth histories from your Egyptologist guide during tours.
• Sleep comfortably with onboard luxury accommodation and enjoy VIP meals for you and your beloved ones.

What are you waiting for?

Find Your Next Egypt tours

Looking for Egypt tours and travel ? Search for your next tour with us, a variety of tours of Egypt suit all interests, also you can contact us and our tourism expert will help you prepare a tour of Egypt and an itinerary suits your interests.

Best Egypt travel and tours 2022

We are doing our best to cover the best-seller Egypt tours in separate categories to meet your expectations. Decide to travel to Egypt and check the top ratted Egypt trips that cover all the important attractions of Egypt. While searching for Egypt day tours or even tailored Egypt travel packages we will meet your needs anyway. Our professional experts are here to transfer you from one era to another.

• Cairo Day Tours

Discover with us the places to visit in Cairo and learn more about Cairo things to do with Egyp...

• Egypt Luxury Tours

On our Egypt luxury tours, you can relive the days of royalty by exploring the ancient monuments and...

• Egypt Family Tours

Create more memories with your family and discover together the most important tourist attractions i...

• Egypt Classic Tours

Discover every inch of Egypt's attractions through Egypt classic tours with an expert tour guide...

• Egypt Honeymoon Packages

Enjoy with your partner the most beautiful memories and moments that you can spend on the various Eg...

• Egypt Red Sea Holidays

Here are different tours on the Red Sea. Egypt competes globally with nature reserves and diving sit...

Top egypt tours offers and packages.

Add more than one city to one travel package. Our Egypt travel packages are selected carefully to cover the sparkle Egypt holidays. Sail in the Nile River with Egypt Nile cruises to stop at the important Egypt luxury tours and sightseeing of Luxor, Aswan, Minia, and Cairo as well. Consider the Red sea holidays in Egypt to your tour packages to try a new adventure under the sea and discover its world through diving and snorkeling in the top two cities of Egypt tours Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada.

08 Days / 07 Nights Cairo - Nile Cruise (Aswan - Luxor) - Cairo Coptic tour

• Starts From

Cairo – Alexandria Program

Cairo - Luxor - Aswan – Cairo

Cairo - Nile Cruise (Aswan-Luxor)

Cairo - Abu Simble (Lake Nasser) - Aswan - Luxor - Cairo

Cairo Program 05 Days / 04 Nights

Discover egypt sightseeing on a daily basis.

Have a short vacation in Egypt? Don’t worry Egypt Promotion will solve this problem. Customize your day tours in Egypt to include your desired attractions whether they are Cairo day tours to visit the Great Pyramids of Egypt, the Egyptian museum, and more secrets. If you are a fan of historical Egypt tours consider Luxor and Aswan day tours to your daily program. Visit the great temples and museums that transfer you to the past to see how ancient Egyptian lived in the past.

Price : $82

Luxor West Bank and East Bank Private Tour 

Price : $26

Sound and Light Show at Karnak Temple

Why Booking With Us?

At Egypt Promotion we have intensified our efforts to meet and provide for our customers' needs from the Egypt tours. The main reason why you should choose Egypt Promotion is that we guarantee you a luxurious and high-quality service. Your satisfaction is our mission!

Your satisfaction is our mission! Egypt Promotion team contacted our distinguished customers to know and meet their needs and why they intend to travel to Egypt to provide you with the following:

Egypt day tours for different visitors, with us you will know the secrets and hideouts of Egypt at a convincing cost.

Egypt family tours : We have not forgotten to share families in our Egypt trips so we have worked on creating various packages suitable for families, we guarantee that you and your children will enjoy our tourism programs. Also focused on family tours programs to be fun and suitable for all ages and groups as well. Just decide to travel to Egypt and leave Egypt holidays organization to Egypt Promotion.

Travel does not have to be expensive, our team worked to provide various tours through which you can discover Egypt with the simplest costs while ensuring excellent service. We also provide the option of customizing your vacation to Egypt with us based on your available budget.

For everyone who loves luxury and is looking for it, we have provided you with packages full of pampering and entertainment. You will visit all the spots of Egypt that you desire with all the means of luxury only with our Egypt luxury tours .

Customized honeymoon tours in Egypt , we provide you with fun and varied programs and never forgot the romantic atmosphere.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about any of our packages or if you would want to organize your own. We have skilled guides ready to put together a program just the way you want it.

Quality and service

Egypt Promotion is one of the best Egypt Tour Companies founded in 1987, and we are happy to have you as a part of our Family.

A personal touch

We offer the best fares on our flights, transfers and other services we offer compared to what is available in the market.

Friendly and knowledgeable staff

Our clients' satisfaction is our main goal for our experienced team. That is why we work only with the best tour guides, hotels, and restaurants.

Save time and effort

Our expert team working to keep you secure and satisfied, just contact us and we will assist you with planning a trip to Egypt.

Our packages can be tailored or built completely from scratch to suit your needs. Why not contact us with your interests? we are flexible to arrange it for you.

Secure Online Payment

We accept online payment with different currencies, and our online payment is so easily secure and fast system.

Best Price Guarantee

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Questions and Answers related to Egypt Tour Packages.

Why Egypt Promotion?

We always focus on delivering the best and giving you more options as possible. We want you to be able to choose and plan how is our trip is going to be in Egypt by providing a wide range of Egypt tours and Nile river cruise. If you browse through our website, you'll find that it is divided into organized categories to make it easier for you to determine your trip. Also, we have created a whole full category for Egypt budget tours for those who want to spend time in Egypt at a low cost. We always got your back when it comes to prices and low budget tours because our prices are competitive. Explore everywhere in Egypt from anywhere with no pressure, worry, or trust issue. You'll be enjoying your full privacy while booking any of our travel to Egypt packages, besides the free given options and exclusive offers during seasonal holidays.

Do I have to pay up front?

No. For most packages, we only require a per-person deposit to hold your booking. (The amount varies by package.) This deposit will be applied towards the cost of your package. Your balance is due later. The due date will be shown when you book. For most packages, the due date is 75 days prior to departure. If you are booking close to the departure date (usually one that departs in less than 75 days), your final payment may be due within 72 hours.

What if I need to change or cancel my booking?

Why are deposits non-refundable.

In order to offer you our tours & packages at such fantastic prices, we make financial commitments to suppliers far in advance of each departure date. These commitments are covered by your deposits and cannot be refunded should you cancel your reservation. We recommend that you purchase our affordable travel protection plan to protect your deposit in case you need to cancel or change your plans.

Should I purchase a travel protection plan, and how much does it cost?

We recommend the purchase of travel protection to all of our customers to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. For your convenience, we offer two travel protection plans at competitive prices that you can purchase with your reservation. Our basic plan can be purchased at any time prior to making your final payment. Please review our travel protection plans for more information and plan documents.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept personal checks, money orders, credit cards (VISA, MasterCard, Discover & American Express), and payments from your PayPal account. To pay your deposit: the easiest, fastest and safest way is with your credit card or PayPal account using our secure online booking system. You may also call or fax us to make your payment by credit card, or you can mail in your deposit by check or credit card, but we cannot hold your place until we receive this payment. To make your final payment: we encourage you to mail a check or money order for the amount due on your invoice. To pay with your credit card or PayPal account, you may use our secure payment form. Or you can mail or fax in your credit card payment. Final payments cannot be accepted over the phone.

Can I bring my children to Egypt?

Sure, though for the safety and security of our travelers, we do have some age restrictions. On most of our tours & packages, your traveling companions must be 8 or older at the time of travel. Some packages have different requirements; see the package page. Travelers under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult 21 years or older.

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Egypt Promotion Travel

• Cairo:12 Mahmoud Hoballah – Abbas El Akad , Nasr city
• +2 01009098098
• [email protected]

Affiliations

• Sharm El Sheikh Day Tours
• Luxor Day Tours
• Aswan Day Tours
• Hurghada Day Tours
• Alexandria Day Tours

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• Egypt Desert Safari
• Egypt Christmas tours
• Egypt Short Stay Packages
• Egypt small group tours

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Is it safe to travel to Egypt 2024? Latest Foreign Office advice to UK holidaymakers as 'do not travel' warning issued for several regions

The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for Egypt amid Israel-Hamas conflict as it warns its guidance could “change at short notice”.

The Foreign Office updated its travel advice for UK holidaymakers visiting Egypt amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The main tourist resorts including Cairo, Nile cruise stops, and the Red Sea resorts of Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh are all still considered safe to travel to by the UK government however there are several regions along its borders where the Foreign Office currently advises against travelling to. 

This includes the border with Gaza at Rafah, where Egypt has built a buffer zone in anticipation of Israel’s ground offensive against Hamas in Rafah. The Foreign Office currently advises against all travel to the Governorate of North Sinai, which includes the crossing at Rafah, and within 20km of the Egyptian/Libyan border (excluding El Salloum, where it advises against all but essential travel).

It also advises against all but essential travel to the following areas:

• The northern part of the Governorate of South Sinai beyond the St Catherine-Nuweiba road, except for the coastal areas along the west and east of the peninsula• The eastern part of Ismailiyah Governorate east of the Suez canal• The area west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions, excluding Luxor, Qina, Aswan, Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings, the Governorate of Faiyum, the coastal areas between the Nile Delta and Marsa Matruh, the Marsa Matruh-Siwa Road, the oasis town of Siwa, the Giza Governorate north-east of the Bahariya Oasis, the road between Giza and Farafra (except the road between Bahariya and Siwa where all but essential travel applies), Bahariya Oasis, Farafra, and the White Desert and Black Desert• The Hala’ib Triangle and Bir Tawil Trapezoid

The government adds that travel advice could “change at short notice” and holidaymakers should “continue to monitor travel advice and follow any relevant instructions from local authorities.” Due to the Israeli government declaring a state of emergency across the whole country, international borders in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs) could close at short notice. 

The Foreign Office warns that “as a result, the land border into Israel from Egypt at Taba could close with little notice”. It adds that there have also been a “number of demonstrations” in Egypt and “protests have been planned, including after Friday prayers.” The government says: “Demonstrations could take place at short notice, with a heavy security presence in place. You should avoid large gatherings, demonstrations and protests.”

Holidaymakers should also be aware of specific rules when visiting the country, for example public drinking can lead to arrest — alcohol is only permitted in a licensed restaurant or bar. Possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs can lead to long prison sentences or even the death penalty, and holidaymakers must also be aware of what they are photographing.

Taking pictures of military installations (strictly prohibited), embassies, government buildings, churches and even infrastructure such as train stations can lead to arrest. If you want to photograph any Egyptian citizens, you must have written permission from them, and photographing children is not permitted.

Taking or sharing photographs that are perceived to be damaging to the country’s image is also forbidden. Similarly, making strongly negative comments about Egypt or its politics, including on social media, can lead to you being detained.

For entry into Egypt, holidaymakers need at least six months of validity on their passport. You’ll also need to apply for a tourist visa to visit most of the country. These can be obtained online before you travel or on arrival at dedicated desks inside the airport. If you’re travelling to the resorts of Sharm el-Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba or Taba, you can get a free entry permission stamp upon arrival for stays of up to 15 days. If you want to stay longer or visit other places you’ll have to get a visa.

Middle East Crisis Israel Appears to Soften Stance in Cease-Fire Talks

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• Destroyed buildings in Rafah on Monday. Associated Press
• Relatives and supporters of Israeli hostages protest in Tel Aviv on Monday. Ohad Zwigenberg/Associated Press
• Palestinians flee after a strike in Nuseirat in central Gaza. Agence France-Presse — Getty Images
• Mourning relatives killed overnight in Rafah. Agence France-Presse — Getty Images
• Looking at a damaged building in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip on Monday. Hatem Khaled/Reuters
• Posters of kidnapped Israeli hostages in Tel Aviv. Shannon Stapleton/Reuters
• A Palm Sunday service at a Greek Orthodox church in Gaza City. Agence France-Presse — Getty Images
• Children at a makeshift movie theater set up among the tents in Rafah on Sunday. Haitham Imad/EPA, via Shutterstock
• Israeli soldiers resting outside the border with southern Gaza. Amir Cohen/Reuters

Israel is open to a truce involving an initial release of 33 hostages, officials say.

Israel’s latest offer would accept fewer hostages to be freed during the first phase of a new truce in Gaza, according to three Israeli officials, offering a hint of hope for cease-fire negotiations that could restart as soon as Tuesday.

For months, Israel had demanded that Hamas release at least 40 hostages — women, older people and those who are seriously ill — in order to secure a new truce. Now the Israeli government is prepared to settle for only 33, according to the officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity in order to discuss the sensitive matter.

The change was prompted partly by the fact that Israel now believes that some of the 40 have died in captivity , according to one of the officials.

Antony J. Blinken, the U.S. secretary of state, said at the World Economic Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Monday that Israel had made an “extraordinarily generous” offer and that Hamas alone stood in the way of a deal. David Cameron, the British foreign minister, said at the same conference that the offer included a sustained 40-day cease-fire and the release of potentially thousands of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the Israeli hostages.

Sameh Shoukry, Egypt’s foreign minister, said at the conference that he was “hopeful” about the latest cease-fire proposal, but did not say what it involved or who had proposed it.

“The proposal has taken into account the positions of both sides,” Mr. Shoukry said, adding that “we are waiting to have a final decision.”

The shift has raised expectations that Hamas and Israel might be edging closer to sealing their first truce since a weeklong cease-fire in November, when Hamas released 105 captives in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners. A senior Hamas official, Izzat al-Rishq, said on social media on Monday that Hamas was studying a new Israeli proposal, but did not say what the proposal was.

Hamas and its allies captured roughly 240 Israelis and foreigners in their attack on Oct. 7, which prompted Israel to go to war in Gaza. More than 130 hostages are believed to still be held in Gaza, but some are thought to have died.

Negotiations over a new pause, mediated by Egypt and Qatar, have stalled for months over disagreements about the number of hostages and prisoners who should be exchanged in a future deal. Another obstacle has been whether Israel would allow civilians from northern Gaza who fled the Israeli invasion to return to their homes, and how many would be permitted to do so.

The length of a cease-fire has also been a key stumbling block. Hamas wants it to be permanent, while Israel wants another temporary pause so that it could still send troops into Rafah, the last major Gazan city under Hamas control, though one where more than a million displaced Palestinians have sought shelter. Far-right members of Israel’s governing coalition have threatened to bring down Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government if the war ends without Hamas’s total defeat.

A mid-ranking Israeli delegation is planning to fly to Cairo on Tuesday to restart talks mediated by Egypt, but only if Hamas also agrees to attend, according to two of the Israeli officials. A senior Hamas official said that a delegation was already in Cairo on Monday.

At the economic forum in Saudi Arabia, Mr. Cameron, the British foreign secretary, said something else must happen for the conflict to end: “The people responsible for Oct. 7, the Hamas leadership, would have to leave Gaza.”

Vivian Nereim and Edward Wong contributed reporting from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

— Patrick Kingsley and Adam Rasgon reporting from Jerusalem

Biden speaks to the leaders of Egypt and Qatar to press for Hamas’s agreement on a new cease-fire.

President Biden spoke on Monday with the leaders of Egypt and Qatar as he sought to increase pressure on Hamas to accept a deal that would result in a temporary cease-fire in the war in Gaza and the release of some of the hostages held there.

According to a statement from the office of President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt, he and Mr. Biden discussed the negotiations and Egypt’s efforts to broker a cease-fire. They also reiterated their support for a two-state solution, discussed the importance of containing the conflict to the region and emphasized their opposition to a military escalation in the city of Rafah in southern Gaza, which Israel seems poised to invade.

Mr. Biden also spoke on Monday with Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, the emir of Qatar. According to the White House, Mr. Biden urged the Qatari leader “to exert all efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas,” saying that “this is now the only obstacle” to an immediate cease-fire.

Mr. al-Sisi and Mr. al-Thani have been prime intermediaries with Hamas through months of fitful negotiations to reach a deal to halt the hostilities, and Mr. Biden hopes they will prod the group’s leader, Yahya Sinwar, to accept the U.S.-brokered proposal on the table. On Sunday, Mr. Biden spoke with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel.

Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House press secretary, expressed a hopeful view of the prospects for an agreement. “In recent days, there has been progress in talks,” she told reporters at the White House.

Like other American officials, Ms. Jean-Pierre said that Hamas, not Israel, was the obstacle to an agreement.

“The onus is indeed on Hamas,” she said. “There is a deal on the table, and they need to take it.”

— Peter Baker reporting from Washington

Blinken meets with Arab officials to discuss Gaza and postwar plans.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Arab officials on Monday in Saudi Arabia about the war between Israel and Hamas and the difficult issues it has created, from humanitarian aid to hostages. Mr. Blinken plans to travel to Jordan and Israel on Tuesday.

After landing in Riyadh, the Saudi capital, shortly after dawn, Mr. Blinken met with Prince Faisal bin Farhan, the foreign minister of Saudi Arabia, and then with foreign ministers and a top foreign policy adviser from five other Arab nations in the Persian Gulf that, along with Saudi Arabia, form the Gulf Cooperation Council. Prince Faisal was also part of that second meeting. On Monday night Mr. Blinken met with Saudi Arabia’s crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman.

The State Department listed the cease-fire and hostage issues first in the summary it released of Mr. Blinken’s one-on-one meeting with the prince. The two “discussed ongoing efforts to reach an immediate cease-fire in Gaza that would secure the release of hostages held by Hamas,” the department said.

The two diplomats also talked about greater regional integration and “a pathway to a Palestinian state with security guarantees for Israel,” the summary said. That was a reference to negotiations over a broad deal that would involve the United States, Saudi Arabia, Israel and Palestinian representatives agreeing to terms that would result in the creation of a Palestinian state and greater diplomatic recognition for Israel in the region.

Mr. Blinken planned to meet with Arab and European officials in a group later on Monday to talk about plans for rebuilding Gaza, even though Israel is still carrying out its war there and has not stepped back from its difficult — and perhaps impossible — goal of fully eradicating Hamas.

Saudi Arabia is hosting a three-day meeting of the World Economic Forum, and top Arab officials, including Mr. Blinken’s diplomatic counterparts, are attending the event in Riyadh. The gathering includes senior ministers from Qatar and Egypt, the two Arab mediators in multiple rounds of talks over a potential cease-fire between Israel and Hamas .

“The quickest way to bring this to an end is to get to a cease-fire and the release of hostages,” Mr. Blinken said in an onstage talk with Borge Brende, president of the World Economic Forum. “Hamas has before it a proposal that is extraordinarily generous on the part of Israel. And at the moment, the only thing standing between the people of Gaza and a cease-fire is Hamas.”

“I’m hopeful they will make the right decision and we can have a fundamental change in the dynamic,” he added.

Mr. Blinken and other top aides of President Biden have also been trying to push for a long-term political solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which is where the broader deal comes in. In a call meant to pave the way for Mr. Blinken’s trip, his seventh to the region since the war began, Mr. Biden and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel spoke by phone on Sunday afternoon for nearly an hour.

The two leaders discussed “increases in the delivery of humanitarian assistance into Gaza,” according to a White House statement released after the call, and Mr. Biden repeated his warning against an Israeli ground assault on Rafah in southern Gaza. He also reviewed with Mr. Netanyahu the negotiations over a hostage release.

In their best-case scenario, the Biden administration envisions Saudi Arabia and perhaps a few other Arab nations agreeing to normalize diplomatic relations with Israel. In exchange, Saudi Arabia would receive advanced weapons and security guarantees, including a mutual defense treaty , from the United States and a commitment for U.S. cooperation on a civilian nuclear program in the kingdom .

For its part, Israel would have to commit to a concrete pathway to the founding of a Palestinian nation, with specific deadlines, U.S. and Saudi officials say.

“I think it’s clear that in the absence of a real political horizon for the Palestinians, it’s going to be much harder, if not impossible, to really have a coherent plan for Gaza itself,” Mr. Blinken said at the public talk on Monday.

Prince Faisal said Sunday that Saudi officials hoped to discuss concrete steps toward creating a Palestinian state during Mr. Blinken’s visit to Riyadh. Calling the war and humanitarian crisis in Gaza “a complete failing of the existing political system,” he told a news conference that the kingdom’s government believes that the only solution is “a credible, irreversible pathway to a Palestinian state.”

Before the war started last October, U.S. and Saudi officials were in intense discussions to reach an agreement on the terms of such a proposal. For those negotiators, a big question at the time was what Israel would agree to. Since the war began, the Americans and the Saudis have publicly insisted that Israel must agree to the existence of a Palestinian state.

But Israeli leaders and ordinary citizens have become even more resistant to that idea since the Oct. 7 attacks, in which the Israeli authorities say that Hamas and allied gunmen killed about 1,200 people and took about 240 people as hostages. Israel’s retaliatory military offensive has killed more than 34,000 Palestinians, most of them civilians, including thousands of children, say officials from the Gaza health ministry.

Vivian Nereim and Zolan Kanno-Youngs contributed reporting.

— Edward Wong traveling with Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken

Deadly Israeli strikes hit residential buildings in Rafah, Palestinian news media say.

Deadly Israeli airstrikes flattened concrete buildings overnight in the crowded southern Gaza city of Rafah, according to news agencies, which published video on Monday of rows of body bags containing what Palestinian officials said were victims of the strikes.

The Reuters news agency said the strikes in Rafah, which Israel seems poised to invade , killed 20 people. The Palestinian news media said the death toll was at least 24. The Gaza Ministry of Health said 34 people were killed in the Gaza Strip during the previous 24 hours, but it did not specify how many of them were killed by the strikes in Rafah.

Asked for comment on the strikes, the Israeli military issued a statement on Monday saying that its “fighter jets struck terror targets where terrorists were operating within a civilian area in southern Gaza.”

More than one million Gazans have been crowding into shelters and tents in Rafah to seek safety from almost seven months of Israel’s military offensive. Israeli officials have said they will soon send ground troops into Rafah, the last Gazan city Israel has not invaded, in order to eliminate Hamas battalions there, an operation that the Biden administration has warned against because of the risk to civilians.

Palestine TV — a channel backed by the Palestinian Authority, which administers parts of the Israeli-occupied West Bank — said the strikes had hit residential buildings in Rafah. One survivor, carrying a baby she said had been pulled from the rubble, spoke to a Reuters video journalist.

“The entire world is seeing what’s happening to us,” the woman, Umm Fayez Abu Taha, said. She said the child appeared to be uninjured, but that her parents had been killed.

“Look at us with some compassion, with some humanity,” Ms. Abu Taha continued. “This is all we ask for, we’re not asking for much just end the war, nothing more.”

— Liam Stack reporting from Jerusalem

Hamas fires a barrage of rockets into Israel from Lebanon.

Hamas’s military wing said on Monday that it had launched a salvo of rockets from Lebanon into northern Israel, an apparent attempt by the group to signal that it is still capable of striking within Israel’s borders even as it studies the latest proposal for a cease-fire in Gaza.

The Qassam Brigades, Hamas’s military wing, said in a statement that it had targeted an Israeli military position in Kiryat Shmona, the largest city in Israel’s far north, with a “concentrated rocket barrage” from southern Lebanon. The Israeli military said in a statement that most of the roughly 20 launches that crossed the border had been intercepted, and that it had responded by striking the source of fire. There were no injuries or damage, the military said.

Though Hamas is based in Gaza, many of its leaders are exiled in Lebanon , where the group has a sizable presence and operates largely out of Palestinian refugee camps. Since the Hamas-led terror attack on Oct. 7 prompted Israel to go to war in Gaza, Hamas has occasionally launched rocket attacks into northern Israel from within Lebanon’s borders, though its ally Hezbollah, the Lebanese militant group, has launched far more. Both groups are backed by Iran. Israel has also targeted Hamas figures in Lebanon in deadly strikes.

Walid al Kilani, Hamas’s spokesman in Lebanon, said the attack was “the minimum duty” given Israel’s continued attacks in Gaza. “We know that Hezbollah is doing its duty and more, but the battlefield requires everyone to participate,” Mr. Kilani said.

The launches on Monday, although muted in their impact, highlighted Hamas’s continuing ability to threaten Israel with rocket fire despite more than 200 days of a devastating Israeli air and ground offensive that has decimated the group’s military capabilities in Gaza.

Mohanad Hage Ali, a Beirut-based fellow with the Carnegie Middle East Center, said the attack was likely an attempt by Hamas to signal that it was “still part of the fight.” While it was largely symbolic, it could also be a means to apply pressure amid the Gaza cease-fire negotiations, he said.

Data compiled by the online website Rocket Alert — which tracks warnings of rocket launches using Israeli military figures — shows that there were just 37 alerts in April in response to detected rocket fire from Gaza, compared to around 7,300 in October at the onset of the war. More than six months into the conflict, the data shows a significant drop-off in the number of warnings of rockets from Gaza.

Alerts indicating rocket fire from Lebanon, however, have remained largely steady, the data shows. Most of those are launched by Hezbollah, but Hamas continues to launch attacks from Lebanon with Hezbollah’s blessing.

Amin Hoteit, a military analyst and former brigadier general in the Lebanese army, said the latest attack was a sign of the “integrated front of operations” among Hamas, Hezbollah and other Iran-backed groups in the region .

Hwaida Saad and Jonathan Rosen contributed reporting.

— Euan Ward reporting from Beirut, Lebanon

Israeli officials believe the International Criminal Court is preparing arrest warrants over the war.

Israeli officials increasingly believe that the International Criminal Court is preparing to issue arrest warrants for senior government officials on charges related to the conflict with Hamas, according to five Israeli and foreign officials.

The Israeli and foreign officials also believe the court is weighing arrest warrants for leaders from Hamas.

If the court proceeds, the Israeli officials could potentially be accused of preventing the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip and pursuing an excessively harsh response to the Hamas-led Oct. 7 attacks on Israel, according to two of the five officials, all of whom spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to publicly discuss the matter.

The Israeli officials, who are worried about the potential fallout from such a case, said they believe that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is among those who might be named in a warrant. It is not clear who might be charged from Hamas or what crimes would be cited.

The Israeli officials did not disclose the nature of the information that led them to be concerned about potential I.C.C. action, and the court did not comment on the matter.

Arrest warrants from the court would probably be seen in much of the world as a humbling moral rebuke, particularly to Israel, which for months has faced international backlash over its conduct in Gaza, including from President Biden , who called it “over the top.”

It could also affect Israel’s policies as the country presses its military campaign against Hamas. One of the Israeli officials said that the possibility of the court issuing arrest warrants had informed Israeli decision-making in recent weeks.

The Israeli and foreign officials said they didn’t know what stage the process was in. Any warrants would require approval from a panel of judges and would not necessarily result in a trial or even the targets’ immediate arrest.

Karim Khan, the court’s chief prosecutor, has previously confirmed that his team is investigating incidents during the war, but his office declined to comment for this article, saying that it does not “respond to speculation in media reports.”

Mr. Netanyahu’s office also would not comment, but on Friday the prime minister said on social media that any intervention by the I.C.C. “would set a dangerous precedent that threatens the soldiers and officials of all democracies fighting savage terrorism and wanton aggression.”

Mr. Netanyahu did not explain what prompted his statement, though he may have been responding to speculation about the arrest warrants in the Israeli press.

He also said: “Under my leadership, Israel will never accept any attempt by the ICC to undermine its inherent right of self-defense. The threat to seize the soldiers and officials of the Middle East’s only democracy and the world’s only Jewish state is outrageous. We will not bow to it.”

Based in The Hague, the I.C.C. is the world’s only permanent international court with the power to prosecute individuals accused of war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity. The court has no police force of its own. Instead, it relies on its 124 members , which include most European countries but not Israel or the United States, to arrest those named in warrants. It cannot try defendants in absentia .

But warrants from the court can pose obstacles to travel for officials named in them.

The Hamas-led raid last October led to the killing of roughly 1,200 people in Israel and the abductions of some 250 others, according to Israeli officials. The subsequent war in Gaza, including heavy Israeli bombardment, has killed more than 34,000 people, according to Gazan officials, caused widespread damage to housing and infrastructure, and brought the territory to the brink of famine.

The Israeli assault in Gaza has led the International Court of Justice, a separate court in The Hague, to hear accusations of genocide against the Israeli state and has spurred a wave of protests on college campuses in the United States.

If the I.C.C. does issue arrest warrants, they would come with deep stigmatization, placing those named in them in the same category as foreign leaders like Omar al-Bashir, the deposed president of Sudan, and Vladimir V. Putin, the Russian president, who was the subject of a warrant last year tied to his war against Ukraine.

The I.C.C.’s focus on individuals rather than states differentiates it from the International Court of Justice, which settles disputes between states.

The I.C.C. judges have ruled that the court has jurisdiction over Gaza and the West Bank because the Palestinians have joined the court as the State of Palestine.

Mr. Khan has said that his team will be investigating incidents that have occurred since Oct. 7 and that he will be “impartially looking at the evidence and vindicating the rights of victims whether they are in Israel or Palestine.”

Mr. Khan’s office has also been investigating allegations of war crimes committed during the 2014 war between Israel and Hamas; one of the officials who spoke on the condition of anonymity believes the new arrest warrants would be an extension of that investigation.

Hamas and the Israeli military did not respond to requests for comment. The office of Yoav Gallant, the Israeli defense minister, declined to comment.

In general, Israeli officials say that they fight according to the laws of war and that they take significant steps to protect civilians, accusing Hamas of hiding inside civilian areas and forcing Israel to pursue them there. Hamas has denied committing atrocities on Oct. 7, saying — despite video evidence to the contrary — that its fighters tried to avoid harming civilians.

Marlise Simons , Gabby Sobelman and Myra Noveck contributed reporting.

— Ronen Bergman and Patrick Kingsley The reporters spoke to Israeli and foreign officials.

World Central Kitchen plans to resume working in Gaza.

World Central Kitchen said on Sunday that it would resume operations in Gaza with a local team of Palestinian aid workers, nearly a month after the Israeli military killed seven of the organization’s workers in targeted drone strikes on their convoy.

Israeli military officials have said the attack was a “grave mistake” and cited a series of failures , including a breakdown in communication and violations of the military’s operating procedures.

The Washington-based aid group said that it was still calling for an independent, international investigation into the April 1 attack and that it had received “no concrete assurances” that the Israeli military’s operational procedures had changed. But the “humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire,” the aid group’s chief operating officer, Erin Gore, said in a statement .

“We are restarting our operation with the same energy, dignity, and focus on feeding as many people as possible,” she said.

The aid group said it had distributed more than 43 million meals in Gaza so far and that it had trucks carrying the equivalent of nearly eight million meals waiting to enter the enclave through the Rafah crossing in the south. World Central Kitchen said it was also planning to send trucks to Gaza through Jordan and that it would open a kitchen in Al-Mawasi, a small seaside village that the Israeli military has designated as a “humanitarian zone” safe for civilians, though attacks there have continued.

Six of the seven workers killed on April 1 were from Western nations — three from Britain, one from Australia, one from Poland and one with dual citizenship of the United States and Canada. The seventh was Palestinian. They were killed in back-to-back Israeli drone strikes on their vehicles as they traveled toward Rafah after unloading food aid that had arrived by sea.

The attack prompted World Central Kitchen to immediately suspend its operations in Gaza and elicited outrage from some of Israel’s closest allies.

The World Central Kitchen convoy’s movements had been coordinated in advance with the Israeli military, but some officers had not reviewed the coordination documentation detailing which cars were part of the convoy, the military said.

Some 200 aid workers, most of them Palestinians, were killed in Gaza between Oct. 7 and the attack on the World Central Kitchen convoy, according to the United Nations. A visual investigation by The New York Times showed that, well before the World Central Kitchen attack, six aid groups in Gaza had come under Israeli fire despite sharing their locations with the Israeli military.

The episode forced World Central Kitchen to decide between ending its efforts in Gaza or continuing, “knowing that aid, aid workers and civilians are being intimidated and killed,” Ms. Gore said in the statement.

“Ultimately, we decided that we must keep feeding, continuing our mission of showing up to provide food to people during the toughest of times,” she said.

At a memorial in Washington for the World Central Kitchen workers on Thursday, the group’s founder, the celebrity chef José Andrés, said that there were “many unanswered questions about what happened and why,” and that the aid group was still demanding an independent investigation into the Israeli military’s actions.

The seven aid workers had “risked everything to feed people they did not know and will never meet,” Mr. Andrés said. “They were the best of humanity.”

— Anushka Patil

Arab ministers suggest ways to ‘force peace’ amid Israel’s refusal to recognize a Palestinian state.

At a conference in Saudi Arabia’s capital on Monday, senior diplomats from around the world appeared to agree on one thing: The pathway to a durable peace between Israel and the Palestinians is the creation of a Palestinian state.

But with Israel’s refusal to recognize a Palestinian state, three Arab foreign ministers posited how best to proceed, with Ayman Safadi of Jordan presenting the bluntest proposal among them. The international community, he said, should find a way to “force peace” against the will of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel.

“If we come up with the best plan ever, and all of us in the international community agree that this is the plan to go forward, and then Netanyahu and his government say no, what happens then?” Mr. Safadi said during a World Economic Forum panel discussion in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, with the foreign ministers of Egypt and Saudi Arabia. “Will he face consequences?”

He added, “The party that is responsible for denying Palestinians, Israelis and the whole region peace must be held accountable.”

Israel’s foreign ministry declined to comment, and the prime minister’s office did not respond to a request for comment.

Both before and during this war in Gaza, which began after the Hamas-led attack on Israel on Oct. 7, Mr. Netanyahu has rebuffed calls for the creation of a Palestinian state.

Analysts say that the attack, in which about 1,200 people were killed and about 240 people taken captive, according to the Israeli authorities, has made it even more unlikely that the Israeli government would agree to such a path. Israeli officials have said that they are trying to eradicate Hamas.

“There is a contrary move, an attempt to force, ram down our throats, a Palestinian state, which will be another terror haven,” Mr. Netanyahu said this month.

Polling shows that a majority of Israelis oppose creating a Palestinian state.

In the Biden administration’s plan for resolving the underlying conflict — and end a war in which Israel’s military has killed more than 34,000 Palestinians, according to officials from the Gazan Health Ministry — it envisions Saudi Arabia agreeing to normalize diplomatic relations with Israel.

In exchange, Saudi Arabia would receive advanced weapons and security guarantees, including a mutual defense treaty from the United States and U.S. commitment for cooperation on a civilian nuclear program in the kingdom .

For its part, Israel would have to commit to the founding of a Palestinian nation, with specific deadlines, U.S. and Saudi officials say.

“In the absence of a real political horizon for the Palestinians, it’s going to be much harder, if not impossible, to really have a coherent plan for Gaza itself,” Antony J. Blinken, the U.S. secretary of state, said on Monday during the conference in Riyadh.

On Sunday at the same event, the Saudi foreign minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, said that the only solution was “a credible, irreversible pathway to a Palestinian state.”

He added, “We need to move from talk to action, to concrete steps, and it can’t be left up to the warring parties.”

Prince Faisal implied that diplomats could maneuver around an Israeli refusal, referring to “mechanisms within the toolbox of the international community that can overcome the resistance of any party.”

“If we make that decision, the pathway will unfold before us, even if there are those that will try to stop it,” he said. “There are levers clear, there are levers hidden, that can push us in that direction.”

Mr. Safadi, the Jordanian foreign minister, said that the challenge Arab states had faced while trying to resolve the conflict was that “we don’t have a partner in Israel now.”

“Do we allow Netanyahu to doom the future of the region to more conflict, war and destruction — or do we do what it takes to force peace?” he said.

Speaking on the same panel, Sameh Shoukry, Egypt’s foreign minister, said that if the international community made a “categorical” commitment to creating a Palestinian state, there were “points of leverage that can fulfill that requirement.”

“We have the mechanisms, but is there the political will to utilize it?” he asked.

— Vivian Nereim reporting from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

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