egypt tourist leaflet

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Download our Egypt travel brochure to learn what magical adventures await you. In Egypt you will join us on an exciting journey, full of unique impressions, sites, smells, and flavors. But before you travel to Egypt, you can learn more about Inside Egypt and what we offer by viewing our Egypt travel brochure. Find out why we are Egypt's leader in luxury travel; and why you should choose us for your luxury Egypt vacation!

Thanks to our Egypt holiday brochure, you can review the details of the different Egypt tour itineraries we offer and the places you will visit with us on each one. Read about our VIP experiences on some Egypt tours, the optional trips, and the 1-day add-ons before and after the main trip to Egypt as well as about our 5-days add-on to Jordan (you can also learn more about in our Egypt and Jordan tour page).

With our Egypt tourism brochure you will discover the best of Egypt; and unlock Egypt tourist information about the most important highlights. Learn about the famous monuments, museums, archaeological sites, and the best hotels. Find information about our culture trips to Egypt , including details about Egyptian traditions, typical Egyptian food, and other fascinating and exciting things this country has to offer. You don't want to miss a thing!

In fact, our Egypt travel brochure is your own little Egypt travel guide pdf. It is a concise and well presented source of knowledge about Egypt and our company, which will allow you to familiarize yourself with us and the amazing country where you will spend your vacation.

You'll find everything you're looking for and more in our Egypt travel brochure and we are waiting to welcome you to Egypt!

Thank you for your interest in Inside Egypt Tours. To receive our Egypt Travel Brochure, please complete the following form. 

If you would like to explore Egypt even further, join our optional trips and 1-day add-ons. If you would like to see more than just one beautiful country during your journey abroad, join our 5-days add-on to Jordan , including legendary Petra. 

To receive our brochure, please complete the following form. 

OUR EGYPT TRAVEL BROCHURE FAQs

Tours covered in this egypt holiday brochure.

In our Egypt travel brochure, you will find detailed descriptions of the luxury Egypt tours that we offer. These are cultural and archaeological tours that include VIP experiences, allowing you to understand ancient Egyptian monuments as well as the modern attractions of Egypt and delve deep into Egyptian culture. Our Egypt tours are luxurious. Our guests stay overnight in 5-star hotels and cruise the Nile on a luxurious ship. We organize comfortable trips in which you travel around Egypt by plane, high-standard coaches, and even a carriage and a speedboat. Around Egypt in 14 Days ( 14-day Egypt tour ) is our most popular tour, featured most extensively in our Egypt travel brochure. For two weeks, our clients will get to visit the most important attractions of Egypt; from Alexandria in the North to Abu Simbel in the South of Egypt. They sail the Nile for 7 days and visit the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx with private access. This is our most thorough Egyptian experience. Our Egypt tourism brochure also includes the Exploring Egypt tour ( a 10-day tour of Egypt) , which, in addition to the standard Egyptian monuments and a 3-day cruise on the Nile, includes a private tour of two historic palaces in Cairo and Alexandria, which are closed to the general public. You can also find the Golden Highlights of Egypt tour ( a 8-day in Egypt tour ) in our Egypt holiday brochure. This tour covers all the most important monuments in Egypt, a 3-day cruise on the Nile and a private tour, without other tourists, of the Khufu Pyramids and the Great Sphinx of Giza. If you want to create your own dream trip that isn't found in our ancient Egypt travel brochure, you can book a  private tour  with us and explore Egypt individually. Visit the sights that you are most interested in on a date that suits you.

Experts involved in putting together this Egypt tourism brochure

The Inside Egypt team behind this ancient Egypt brochure consists of specialists who have been associated with the tourism industry in Egypt for many years. Our employees have numerous contacts throughout Egypt extensive knowledge and skill. Their training and experience as experts has resulted in well-established procedures, and their ability and skill are of the highest level.

Our customer service experts, marketing specialists, operational managers and tourist guides have been part of the long-standing Inside Egypt team and have been involved in the creation of our Egypt travel brochure.

Their extensive knowledge, which comes from their experience of dealing with customers over years of service has given them the skills to create this Egypt holiday brochure. Our Egypt tourism brochure is the result of the great collaboration of all these experts.

Thanks to them, our Egypt turism guide below is vey concise, giving you all the Egypt travel information you need to plan your vacation; and you will quickly find the most important Egypt tourist information that you're looking for in our Egypt travel brochure.

You'll find information about Egyptian culture, as well as the magnificent sites that you need to visit on your Egypt vacation. Our team has put their heart and soul into our Egypt travel brochure to give you the best planning tool, and to get you excited about your trip to the wonderful land of the pharaohs.

We encourage you to download our Egypt travel guide pdf to find all of the Egypt tourist information you need. You will quickly find the most important Egypt tourist information that you're looking for in our Egypt travel brochure.

We hope that our Egypt tourism brochure will convince you to visit Egypt with us. We're looking forward to welcoming you to our amazing country.

What makes Inside Egypt different?

Inside Egypt is a  travel agency in Egypt that organizes luxury tours in Egypt, at affordable prices. Our Egypt tours are distinguished by luxurious hotels, knowledgeable guides that are fluent in English, and a luxurious cruise on the Nile. On our trips, we provide our clients with exclusive access to some of the most famous attractions, such as private entry, without crowds, to the Giza plateau or touring historic palaces in Cairo and Alexandria which are tipically closed to the general public. This experience will make you feel completely unique, like a VIP. We believe that it's not only about the things that you see, but how you view them and experience them.

During our Egypt tour you will eat tasty and exquisite food. On our Egypt tours, you have the opportunity to sample traditional Egyptian cuisine and Egypt's main dishes. Bottled water is provided with every meal and during the sightseeing tours.

You will travel with us comfortably via air-conditioned coaches, airplanes, and even a motorboat or horse-drawn carriage.

We will provide you with a transfer from and to Cairo airport on the day of your arrival and departure. We can also book hotel accommodation for you before and after your trip to Egypt.

Our Egypt tours itineraries cover the most important Egyptian attractions. They include both ancient monuments and modern Egypt sites such as mosques, Coptic churches, a bazaar, and a library in Alexandria. With us you can immerse yourself in Egyptian culture, traditions and customs by visiting a Nubian village in Aswan, or shopping at Khan el Khalili bazaar in Cairo.

Every detail has been thought of to make your Egypt vacation special. Let us lead the way.

Check out our luxury Egypt tours and book your VIP experience today!

How to book your tour with us?

The booking process for our luxury Egypt tours is very simple. On our website, first select the trip to Egypt that you want to participate in, then pick the required date of the Egypt tour and click the "Book Now" button. A booking form will then appear, which must be completed correctly. Your passport will be required for this. You can also make reservations for other people, your family members, friends or business partners using this process.

You can book extra nights at your hotel in Cairo before or after the tour. These may be needed due to your international flight dates. Before booking an Egypt tour, check the flight connections to Cairo from your home country. We can check these flight connections for you and help you book international flights, if needed.

You can also book a 1-day add-on before or after the main tour. When using the booking form it is also possible to book a 5-day trip to Jordan to follow the end of your trip to Egypt.

If your tour date is more than 90 days away, you can pay a deposit or the full amount. If there are less than 90 days before you travel, you will be required to pay the full amount. Payment for the trip can be made with a Visa or Mastercard credit or debit card, or you can pay by international bank transfer. When paying by bank transfer, you should make sure that all bank transfer costs are covered.

Should you have any questions or problems during the booking process, please contact us by phone + 1 929-224-5100 or e-mail: [email protected] . We’re happy to provide information about ancient Egypt pyramids you’ll see in each itinerary, hotel accommodations, transportation, meals, culture, and more!

Our travel consultants will be happy to give you all the information you need.

The journey of a lifetime awaits you! Book your l uxury Egypt tour now!

Prepare for your trip

Preparing for a trip can often be a source of stress. Even experienced travelers sometimes forget something before departure. The feeling that accompanies us on our way, that we have forgotten to pack something important, happens to best of us. Each trip abroad, including to Egypt, can be reduced to a few basic steps to allow you to remove any stress:

Travel Documents You will need a passport to travel to Egypt. The Egyptian government requires the passport to be valid for at least 6 months from the planned date of return from Egypt, so you need to arrange it in advance. Also make a few copies of your passport or a photo of your passport with your phone - you may need them, for example, to buy a sim card. This also removes the need to carry your passport with you all the time.

Visa for Egypt You can apply for a visa at the Egyptian diplomatic mission, at the airport in Egypt, or electronically via the website. Egypt visa fees are $ 25 (single visa) and $ 60 (multiple visa). Tourist visas are issued for 30 days.

Covid 19 Egypt has lifted all restrictions that were previously imposed in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. You can now travel to Egypt without providing proof of a negative PCR test or an accredited COVID-19 vaccination certificate prior to departure.

Flight Tickets Buy plane tickets to Cairo, Egypt. By buying them early you will most likely pay less than if you were to buy them at the last moment. In addition, there may also be a problem with available seats on the plane on the dates you are interested in, if you wait. You will then need to purchase additional hotel nights before or after your trip to Egypt.

Travel Insurance When traveling, while rare, accidents do happen. Make sure that you purchase travel insurance. This could save your family from unnecessary costs. When buying travel insurance, avoid the cheapest policies. We would advise you to take out a complex insurance policy that covers all possibilities. The insurance company must, for example, cover the costs of hospitalization (a very expensive service in Egypt), treatment of a chronic disease (e.g. cardiovascular, cancer, epilepsy), mental illness or the effects of passive participation in acts of terror.

When choosing your insurance policy, also consider the things that you plan to do in Egypt. A standard policy does not cover the costs of accidents when doing specific sports, e.g. diving with specialized equipment, surfing, windsurfing, quad biking, water scooter or joining a balloon flight. When buying travel insurance, it is worth paying attention to: - recognition and credibility of the insurer - the amount of compensation in the case of: 1) delayed flight 2) lost luggage 3) theft 4) an accident 5) death

Adequate Clothes Due to the warm climate of Egypt, you should mainly take light summer clothes with you. On cool evenings, however, you may also need to pack a sweatshirt or a light jacket. Light, long pants are required and women should wear a long skirt, a blouse that covers the shoulders, and a headscarf. Comfortable footwear, which is not new, will also be useful. We recommend sports sandals or sports shoes. Sunglasses and a baseball cap or a wide-brimmed hat to protect the head and eyes from the sun are essential.

Toiletries Sunscreen with a high UV filter to protect your skin from strong sunlight is a must have when visiting Egypt. Hand disinfectant gels and liquids, wet wipes for use in public toilets are also useful. You should purchase suitable face masks to wear on airplanes, coaches and crowded public places in Egypt.

Everyone has a lot to do in their day-to-day life, and there is not always time to prepare for the trip. However, it's best to do your preparation in advance and gradually, without leaving everything to the last minute, to avoid rushing.

Safety Updates on Visiting Egypt During the Hamas-Israel War

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Egypt is the oldest tourist destination on earth. Ancient Greeks and Romans started the trend, coming to goggle at the cyclopean scale of the Pyramids and the Colossi of Thebes. During colonial times, Napoleon and the British looted Egypt’s treasures to fill their national museums, sparking off a trickle of Grand Tourists that eventually became a flood of travellers, taken on Nile cruises and Egyptological lectures by the enterprising Thomas Cook.

Where to go in Egypt

Travel ideas for egypt, created by local experts.

The Best of Egypt

Explore the history and culture of Egypt and its ancient rulers on this trip throughout the country. Start and end in Cairo and make your way down to Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel. Instead of domestic flights, you will hop on luxurious sleeper trains for your journey.

Cairo & a luxurious Dahabieh sailing cruise

Explore Egypt at a leisurely pace on board a dahabieh, a traditional sailing ship. In Cairo, visit the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, and in Giza, the pyramids; cruise to world-renowned sites alongside lesser-known treasures, such as Luxor’s tombs, el Kab and Gebel Silsileh’s Temple of Horemheb.

A Nile Cruise in Egypt

Experience Cairo with the pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian museum before flying to Luxor to board your Nile cruise. Highlights include Karnak temple, Valley of Kings, Hatshepsut temple and an optional visit to Abu Simbel. Spend your last night in fascinating Cairo.

Five Star Egypt

A tour through the ancient wonders of Giza, Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Start and end your trip in beautiful Cairo, exploring the surroundings before heading down to Aswan: you will spend four nights on a luxurious Nile cruise ship, discovering ancient sites such as Abu Simbel.

An introduction to Egypt

Marvel at the pyramids in Giza, explore busy Cairo, sleep on a luxurious sleeper train and explore more temples close to Luxor. This itinerary is fast-paced, with several nights in Cairo at the beginning and end, enabling you to see many fascinating sights in Egypt.

Today, the most popular places to visit are not only the monuments of the Nile Valley and the souks, mosques and madrassas of Islamic Cairo, but also fantastic coral reefs and tropical fish, dunes, ancient fortresses, monasteries and prehistoric rock art.

The land itself is a freak of nature, its lifeblood the River Nile. From the Sudanese border to the shores of the Mediterranean, the Nile Valley and its Delta are flanked by arid wastes, the latter as empty as the former are teeming with people. This stark duality between fertility and desolation is fundamental to Egypt’s character and has shaped its development since prehistoric times, imparting continuity to diverse cultures and peoples over seven millennia. It is a sense of permanence and timelessness that is buttressed by religion , which pervades every aspect of life. Although the pagan cults of ancient Egypt are as moribund as its legacy of mummies and temples, their ancient fertility rites and processions of boats still hold their place in the celebrations of Islam and Christianity.

The result is a multi-layered culture , which seems to accord equal respect to ancient and modern. The peasants of the Nile and the Bedouin tribes of the desert live much as their ancestors did a thousand years ago. Other communities include the Nubians of the far south, and the Coptic Christians, who trace their ancestry back to pharaonic times. What unites them is a love of their homeland, extended family ties, dignity, warmth and hospitality towards strangers. Though most visitors are drawn to Egypt by its monuments, the enduring memory is likely to be of its people and their way of life.

Egypt’s capital, Cairo, is a seething megalopolis whose chief sightseeing appeal lies in its bazaars and medieval mosques, though there is scarcely less fascination in its juxtapositions of medieval and modern life, the city’s fortified gates, villas and skyscrapers interwoven by flyovers whose traffic may be halted by donkey carts. The immensity and diversity of this “Mother of Cities” is as staggering as anything you’ll encounter in Egypt. Just outside Cairo are the first of the pyramids that range across the desert to the edge of the Fayoum, among them the unsurpassable trio at Giza, the vast necropolis of Saqqara and the pyramids at Dahshur. Besides all this, there are superb museums devoted to Ancient, Coptic and Islamic Egypt, and enough entertainment to occupy weeks of your time.

However, the principal tourist lure remains, as ever, the Nile Valley, with its ancient monuments and timeless river vistas – Nile cruises on a luxury vessel or a felucca sailboat being a great way to combine the two. The town of Luxor is synonymous with the magnificent temples of Karnak and the Theban Necropolis, which includes the Valley of the Kings where Tutankhamun and other pharaohs were buried. Aswan, Egypt’s southernmost city, has the loveliest setting on the Nile and a languorous ambience. From here, you can visit the island Philae temple of Isis and the rock-hewn colossi at Abu Simbel, or embark on a cruise to other temples around Lake Nasser. Other sites not to be missed are Edfu and Kom Ombo, between Luxor and Aswan, and Abydos and Dendara, north of Luxor.

Besides monuments, Egypt abounds in natural wonders. Edged by coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, the Sinai Peninsula offers superb diving and snorkelling, and palm-fringed beaches where women can swim unmolested. Resorts along the Gulf of Aqaba are varied enough to suit everyone, whether you’re into the upmarket hotels of Sharm el-Sheikh, nearby Na’ama Bay or Taba further north, or cheap, simple living at Dahab and Nuweiba. From there it’s easy to visit St Catherine’s Monastery and Mount Sinai (where Moses received the Ten Commandments) in the mountainous interior. With more time, cash and stamina, you can also embark on jeep safaris or camel treks to remote oases and spectacular wadis.

Egypt’s Red Sea Coast has more reefs further offshore, with snorkelling and diving traditionally centred around Hurghada, while barely touched island reefs from Port Safaga down to Marsa Alam beckon serious diving enthusiasts. Inland, the mountainous Eastern Desert harbours the Coptic monasteries of St Paul and St Anthony, Roman quarries, and a host of pharaonic and prehistoric rock art, seen by few apart from the nomadic Bedouin.

While the Eastern Desert is still barely touched by tourism, the Western Desert Oases have been on the tourist trail for forty years and nowadays host safaris into the wilderness. Siwa, out towards the Libyan border, has a unique culture and history, limpid pools and bags of charm. Travellers can also follow the “Great Desert Circuit” (starting from Cairo, Luxor or Assyut) through the four “inner” oases – though Bahariya and Farafra hold the most appeal, with the lovely White Desert between them, the larger oases of Dakhla and Kharga also have their rewards once you escape their modernized “capitals”. And for those into serious desert expeditions, there’s the challenge of exploring the Great Sand Sea or the remote wadis of the Gilf Kebir, whose prehistoric rock art featured in the film The English Patient. In contrast to these deep-desert locations are the quasi-oases of the Fayoum and Wadi Natrun, featuring the fossil-strewn Valley of the Whales, diverse ancient ruins and Coptic monasteries.

On the Mediterranean, Egypt’s second city, Alexandria, boasts a string of beaches to which Cairenes flock in summer, and excellent seafood restaurants. Despite being founded by Alexander the Great and lost to the Romans by Cleopatra, the city today betrays little of its ancient glory; however, its magnificent new library, featuring statues raised from the sunken remains of Cleopatra’s Palace, and the Lighthouse of Pharos (which divers can explore) are restoring an air of majesty. Famous, too, for its decadence during colonial times, Alexandria still allows romantics to indulge in a nostalgic exploration of the city immortalized in Durrell’s Alexandria Quartet, while further along the Mediterranean coast is the World War II battlefield of El-Alamein. For divers, the waters off Alexandria offer an array of sunken cities and wartime wrecks to explore.

The Nile Delta, east of Alexandria, musters few archeological monuments given its major role in ancient Egyptian history, and is largely overlooked by tourists. However, for those interested in Egyptian culture, the Delta hosts colourful religious festivals at Tanta, Zagazig and other towns. Further east lies the Canal Zone, dominated by the Suez Canal and its three cities: Suez is grim, but a vital transport nexus between Cairo, Sinai and the Red Sea Coast; Port Said and Ismailiya are pleasant, albeit sleepy places, where you can get a feel of “real Egypt” without tripping over other tourists.

Top image © Marcelo Alex/Shutterstock

Discover more places in Egypt

• The Western Desert Oases
• The Nile Valley, Egypt
• Abu Simbel Temples, Egypt
• Saqqara, Egypt
• Mount Sinai, Egypt
• Abydos, Egypt
• Siwa Oasis, Egypt
• Dahab, Egypt

Egypt is one of the best diving destinations in the world. The Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba are rich in sea life and home to a wonderful array of dive sites, with plenty of options for both novices and experts alike: remarkably preserved World War II wrecks, coral reefs filled with dolphins, rainbow-coloured anemone gardens, and shallow bays visited by turtles are just a few of the sites you can explore. The Sinai and Red Sea Coast chapters have detailed information on dive sites and recommended dive companies, as well as tips on safety and environmental issues.

The Red Sea’s stable climate, shallow tides and exceptionally high salinity provide perfect conditions for unusually brilliant corals and sponges – a revelation if you have previously dived in such places as Hawaii or the Caribbean, whose reefs will forever after seem dull by comparison. Created by generations of miniscule polyps depositing their limestone exoskeletons on the remains of their ancestors, coral reefs can grow by 4–5cm a year. Beside hard corals such as brain and fire coral, which have a rigid outer skeleton, the Red Sea hosts an abundance of soft corals , including whip coral and sea fans. Because most types of coral need a moderate amount of warm sunlight to flourish, the most spectacular formations are found within 30m of the surface.

Most Red Sea reefs are of the fringing type, with a shallow lagoon just offshore, whose warm water and rubble-strewn bottom attracts starfish and sea slugs. Clams and sea urchins hide in crevices, and schools of damselfish and butterflyfish flit about. Its seaward boundary is the reef flat, whose crest is usually a barren, rough-surfaced shelf, while deeper areas are rich in flora and fauna. Beyond is a coral-encrusted slope, leading to a drop-off like the edge of a cliff. Flatter areas may be dotted with coral pillars or knolls. Lower down, the coral is sparser, and you may find sandy terraces overgrown with seagrass, sustaining sea horses and pipefish. Beyond the drop-off lies open water.

Some of the Red Sea’s most colourful and endearing species are easy to spot in the shallows , where the sunlight is brightest. Among the commonest are beak-mouthed parrotfish and exotic-looking pennantfish, whose long dorsal fins end in filaments.

Wherever stinging anemones cling to the reef, you’ll see clownfish (or anemone fish). Angelfish are usually found close to the coral, while clouds of gold and vermillion anthias gather around coral heads and fans. Slopes and fore reefs are the habitat of snappers, goatfish and wrasses (the largest of these, the Napoleon Wrasse, can dwarf a person).

In deeper waters you may see sharks, including whitetip reef sharks, grey reef sharks and (occasionally) scalloped hammerheads. Spotted reef stingrays are often seen on the sandy bottom of the sea. Turtles are among the most thrilling species to encounter underwater; the Red Sea has several species, including green turtles and hawksbill turtles. Dolphin encounters are possible too, and those lucky enough to come across a pod of bottlenose or spinner dolphins on a dive are likely to count it among the highlights of their trip.

• The Arab Republic of Egypt covers 1,001,450 square kilometres, but 96.4 percent of that is desert . Only the Nile Valley, its Delta and some oases are fertile.

• Egypt’s population of 83.7 million is over twice that of the next most populous Arab country (Algeria) and a quarter of the population of the Arab world. 71 percent of Egyptians are literate. Average life expectancy is 73 years.

• Islam is the biggest religion, and some ninety percent of Egyptians are Muslim; most of the rest are Coptic Christians , with a small number of other Christians, and a tiny but ancient Jewish community.

• All Egyptians speak Arabic , but there are other Egyptian languages too: Nubian , related to the Nilotic languages of East Africa, is spoken around Aswan and Lake Nasser; Siwi , a Berber language like those of Morocco and Algeria, is spoken in Siwa Oasis; and Coptic , which is derived from ancient Egyptian, is used in church services, but not otherwise.

• Since the monarchy was ousted in 1952, Egypt has been a republic , ruled by a succession of military strongmen up until the 2011 revolution that overthrew Hosni Mubarak. Elections in 2012 resulted in an Islamist government under President Mohammed Morsi . The Muslim Brotherhood’s Freedom and Justice Party is the largest in parliament, followed by the Salafist Al-Nour party, the liberal Wafd party and Egyptian Bloc.

• Tourism has long been Egypt’s biggest money-earner, followed by tolls on the Suez Canal, and exports of oil, petroleum products, natural gas, cotton and textiles. Over forty percent of the population lives below the poverty line, and the economy would collapse without $2 billion a year in financial and food-aid from the US.

Travel advice for Egypt

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Egypt

• Eating and drinking in Egypt
• Getting around Egypt: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips Egypt for planning and on the go
• Culture and Etiquette in Egypt
• How to get to Egypt
• Shopping tips for Egypt
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Egypt
• Travelling with children in Egypt
• Best time to visit Egypt

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.05.2021

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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

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.

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.

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 !

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 .

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!

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!

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.

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. 

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 .

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!

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 !

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! 

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!

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.

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 .

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.

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.

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 !

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!

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.

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!

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 !

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 .

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 .

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 .

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 .

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.

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. 

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 .

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 .

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

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!

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 .

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.

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?

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 .

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.

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 !

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 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 .

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 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 .

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 .

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.

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!

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!

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!

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 .

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 .

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.

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.

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?

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 .

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.

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.

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 .

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 .

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.

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

Introducing Egypt

About egypt.

• Images of Egypt
• History, language & culture
• Weather & geography
• Doing business & staying in touch

Plan your trip

• Travel to Egypt
• Where to stay

While you’re there

• Things to see & do
• Shopping & nightlife
• Food & drink
• Getting around

Before you go

• Passport & visa
• Public Holidays
• Money & duty free

Book your flights

• Cairo International Airport
• Hurghada International Airport
• Sharm el-Sheikh International Airport
• Hurghada beaches
• Sharm el-Sheikh beaches

Cruise Locations

• Sharm el Sheikh

Egypt travel guide

A complicated but fascinating country with some of the most enduring historical monuments on Earth, Egypt stands as an unforgettable travel destination. It’s had to deal with its fair share of turmoil in recent times, but this North African nation remains proud, welcoming and accessible. And with treasures as timeless as the temples and pyramids of the Nile to shout about, it’s not somewhere that’s going to slip from public consciousness any time soon. A trip here still very much has the potential to thrill.

In many ways, there are two Egypts. The first is the Egypt of Cairo and the Nile, of bustling medieval bazaars, noseless Sphinxes, river cruises and Agatha Christie-era exoticism. The second, and just as integral to many visitors, is the Egypt of the Red Sea, where a spread of large-scale modern resorts caters to sun-seekers and scuba divers. Sharm el Sheikh, with its world-class diving, high-end hotels and desert adventures, is the best known of them.

Most of the country’s ancient treasures were built during the time of the pharaohs. The Pyramids of Giza (the sole survivors of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World); the lotus-columned temples of Luxor and Karnak; the Valley of the Kings; Aswan and the temples of Abu Simbel: strung along the Nile, these monuments have drawn visitors for centuries. They represent a lasting legacy of one of the most fabled periods of human history.

Of course, the country is best understood not so much for its great monuments or its coral reefs, splendid though they are, but through its people. Bartering for a bargain in Cairo’s ancient Khan al-Khalili bazaar, taking tea and falling into long conversation with a local, or simply stopping awhile in a remote village, silent but for the chatter of hooves on tarmac, will give a glimpse of a country full of character, colour and fortitude.

1,001,450 sq km (386,662 sq miles).

94,137,816 (UN estimate 2016).

88.4 per sq km.

Cairo (El Qahira).

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi since 2014.

Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouli since June 2018.

Travel Advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.

Egypt-Libya border

FCDO advises against all travel to within 20km of the Egypt-Libya border, except for the town of El Salloum (where we advise against all but essential travel).

North Sinai

FCDO advises against all travel to the Governorate of North Sinai.

Northern part of South Sinai

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the northern part of the Governorate of South Sinai, beyond the St Catherine-Nuweibaa road, except for the coastal areas along the west and east of the peninsula.

The eastern part of Ismailiyah Governorate

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Ismailiyah Governorate east of the Suez Canal.

Western Desert

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the area west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions, except for:

• 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 (but we advise against all but essential travel on the road between Bahariya and Siwa)
• Bahariya Oasis, Farafra, the White Desert and Black Desert

Hala’ib Triangle and Bir Tawil Trapezoid

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Hala’ib Triangle and the Bir Tawil Trapezoid.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

Conflict in neighbouring Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs)

The Israeli government has declared a state of emergency across the whole country. International borders in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs) could close at short notice. As a result, the land border into Israel from Egypt at Taba could close with little notice. Check with local authorities and consult the travel advice for  Israel  and the  Occupied Palestinian Territories  before trying to cross the border.

In response to events in Israel and the OPTs, a number of demonstrations have taken place in Egypt and protests have been planned, including after Friday prayers. Demonstrations could take place at short notice, with a heavy security presence in place. You should avoid large gatherings, demonstrations and protests. See  Safety and security

Entering Egypt from Gaza

The Rafah border crossing partially opened on 1 November. This is primarily to facilitate the evacuation of seriously wounded Palestinians and some foreign nationals. We understand that the crossing will continue to be open for controlled and time-limited periods to allow specific groups of foreign nationals, including British nationals, to cross. It is for the Egyptian and Israeli authorities to determine who is permitted to cross, and when. The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs will contact Embassies to let them know when their foreign nationals can cross. Should we receive notification from the Israeli and Egyptian authorities that individuals are permitted to cross, we will notify those people individually.

Movement to the Rafah crossing and beyond is at your own risk. You should only travel if you judge it is safe to do so. Check the  Israel and The Occupied Palestinian Territories travel advice.

The Egyptian authorities have said all aid going into Gaza from Egypt must be channelled through the Egyptian Red Crescent:

• telephone: + 20 226 703 979, + 20 226 703 983
• fax: + 20 226 703 967

They are unlikely to consider requests for humanitarian access made in Egypt at short notice.

Concern for friends and family

If you are concerned about friends or family, or need consular assistance call:

• British Embassy Cairo on + 20 (0)2 2791 6000
• +44 1767 667 600  (UK number) if you experience technical difficulties with the above number

Incidents in South Sinai  

On 27 October, an Egyptian Armed Forces spokesperson confirmed that an unidentified drone fell near a medical facility in the Egyptian Red Sea resort town of Taba next to the Israeli border, injuring six people. An additional unidentified drone also struck outside the town of Nuweiba, though no casualties have been confirmed. The authorities are conducting ongoing investigations.

Incident in Alexandria

On 8 October 2023, an Egyptian police officer is reported to have shot and killed two Israeli tourists and an Egyptian tour guide in Alexandria. A third tourist was injured. Remain vigilant and exercise caution at tourist and religious sites, as well as public gatherings. Find out more information on current risks on the  Safety and security .

Border crossings from Sudan

There are still people trying to cross the border into Egypt at Argeen and Qustul. Our ability to provide consular assistance is very limited.

If you are a British national and have crossed the border without valid documentation, contact the British Embassy in Cairo for consular assistance on + 20 (0)2 2791 6000.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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

You should also read FCDO ’s overall travel advice and regional risks advice .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out more about the global threat from terrorism .

Terrorism in Egypt

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Egypt.

Terrorism is a risk across Egypt, particularly in North Sinai. Attacks could be indiscriminate. Targets might include:

• Egyptian security forces
• religious sites
• large public gatherings
• places visited by foreigners

The authorities in Egypt have a significant security presence across the country, including armed security officers at important sites, critical infrastructure and road checkpoints. Extra measures are in place at tourist sites. Recent attacks include:

• in 2022, an attack to the west of the Suez Canal targeting security forces within the city of Ismailiyah
• in 2019, at least 20 people killed by a car bomb in Central Cairo’s Manial district
• in 2019, at least 16 people injured after an IED attack on a tourist bus near the Giza pyramids
• in 2019, 3 security personnel killed by a suicide bomber in Central Cairo’s Darb al-ahmar district
• in 2018, a roadside blast killed 4 people on a bus near the Giza pyramids
• in 2018, gunmen opened fire on a bus carrying Coptic Christians in Minya province killing 7 people. Daesh (formally ISIL) claimed responsibility for the attack

Terrorism during holiday periods

There is a heightened threat of terrorism in and around religious sites and during religious festivals, such as the month of Ramadan and the Christmas period (including Coptic Christmas in January). Terrorist attacks have occurred over local holiday weekends. See a list of public holidays on the Egyptian Presidency website .

You should:

• follow the advice of Egyptian authorities
• be vigilant in crowds and large gatherings

Airports and airlines

Terrorists in Egypt have the intent and capability to target airport buildings and planes.

The main threat is on the North Sinai Peninsula where Daesh operate with greater freedom, but terrorists are active throughout Egypt.

Co-operate fully with security officials at airports and pay attention to security measures on flights from Egypt to the UK.

Terrorist kidnap

There is a threat of kidnapping by groups operating in North Africa, particularly from Libya and groups originating in the Sahel. This includes Al Qaeda and Daesh-affiliated groups, who may travel across the region’s porous border. There is a heightened risk of kidnap in border and remote desert areas of North Africa. Terrorist groups have taken foreigners, government officials and civilians hostage for financial gain and for political leverage. Further kidnappings are likely.

British nationals are viewed as legitimate targets, including those engaged in tourism, humanitarian aid work, journalism or business sectors. If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to serve as a protection or secure your safe release.

The long-standing policy of the British government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners builds the capability of terrorist groups and finances their activities. This can, in turn, increase the risk of further hostage-taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) makes payments to terrorists illegal.

Military activity in the Red Sea area       

Military activity is currently underway in response to attempts by Houthi militants to prevent movement of international shipping in the Red Sea. While the area of activity is limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, there is a possibility that Travel Advice for nearby countries could change at short notice. You should continue to monitor Travel Advice and follow any relevant instructions from local authorities.

Political situation

Since 2011 there has been significant political turmoil. The political environment remains restrictive. There have been violent protests and disturbances, resulting in a number of deaths.

Protests, marches and demonstrations occur across Egypt, particularly in cities. Avoid protests, marches or demonstrations as the situation could change quickly and without warning. Police have used water cannons, tear gas, birdshot and live ammunition as crowd control.

The authorities may close public spaces, including parks and beaches, at short notice, particularly around the holidays. Follow the guidance of the local authorities. You could be fined or arrested if you do not do as you are told.

Foreigners involved in any political activity or activities critical of the government may be at risk of detention or other measures.

There are reports that personal electronic devices are being checked by security personnel, particularly around places of public gathering, such as Tahrir Square.

The crime rate is generally low, but visitors have reported armed robberies, muggings (including in taxis), sexual assaults, and break-ins to accommodation and cars. Take extra care when travelling alone, particularly at night, in taxis and microbuses.

If you want to report a crime, contact the tourist police on 126. If you do not report a crime before you leave, it will be difficult to ask for a prosecution at a later date.

Sexual assaults and harassment

There are a number of sexual assaults reported to the British Embassy, including cases involving minors.

The majority of cases that have been reported took place in tourist resorts in the Red Sea region, often committed by someone the victim had already met, including hotel workers and excursion staff. There have also been reports of hotel staff discouraging incidents being reported to local police.

Female travellers should exercise caution when travelling alone, particularly at night, in buses, taxis and microbuses. If you are travelling on public transport including microbuses, avoid being the last passenger left on board.

Take extra precautions, including:

make sure children and young people are always accompanied by known and trusted people and not left alone with hotel or excursion staff

don’t allow hotel staff to enter your room when you are alone. Try to ensure a friend or relative is present

avoid travelling in a taxi alone. If this isn’t possible, apply extra security to your trip by sharing the details of your driver and trip with a friend, and using live location on WhatsApp

use reputable providers for any services and excursions, and carry out research beforehand, including by consulting your tour operator where you have one

avoid sharing personal contact or social media details

You may also want to read:

advice for women travelling abroad

information for British nationals affected by rape or sexual assault abroad

If you experience sexual harassment or assault, or anything you see doesn’t feel right, report it to the hotel or local authorities - Tourist Police on 126 and contact the British Embassy at +20 2 279 160 00 as soon as possible for advice and support. Or, you can call the local Police on 122. Both numbers provide English speakers.

Protecting your belongings

Keep a copy of your passport, visa and flight ticket separately from originals when travelling. Leave copies at home where others can access them, and also store them electronically so you can access them easily. If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the police immediately and get a police report.

Take particular care of your possessions on buses, trains and in crowds. Criminals may ride past on bikes and snatch valuables.

Be cautious in tourist areas, where scammers and touts target foreigners.

Staying safe at tourist sites

Tourists at popular tourist sites, such as the Giza Pyramids, may be confronted aggressively for money or business, even while travelling by car or taxi. Visitors using a pre-booked guide, or taking an organised tour to visit the Giza Pyramids, are likely to face fewer difficulties.

Laws and cultural differences

Egypt is predominantly an Islamic country. It is illegal to encourage conversion to the Christian faith.

Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times. Make sure your actions do not cause offence, especially during Ramadan or when you visit religious areas.

Dress modestly, especially in rural areas, mosques and souqs (markets). Public displays of affection are frowned on. What may be acceptable in the tourist resort areas may not be in other areas.

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. Ramadan in Egypt in 2024 will likely begin in March and end in April and will last for 30 days. Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.

You should also:

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
• be aware that driving may be erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk
• be patient and show tolerance

Personal ID

Police regularly carry out ID checks. Keep valid photo ID with you at all times.

Alcohol laws and bans

Drinking alcohol anywhere other than a licensed restaurant or bar is illegal and can lead to arrest.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs is a serious offence and can, even for small amounts, lead to lengthy prison sentences (25 years), life imprisonment or the death penalty. Those sentenced to life imprisonment on drugs charges will normally spend the rest of their life in prison with no possibility of parole or pardon.

Khat is illegal in Egypt.

Criticising the Egyptian government

Making political or negative comments about the Egyptian government, including about the President or security forces, can cause trouble with the authorities. People have faced prison sentences for making insulting comments on social media.

Restrictions on photography

You need a permit for professional photography or film equipment. This includes photography umbrellas, artificial outdoor lighting gear, and any equipment that occupies or blocks public roads.

You are not allowed to take or share photographs that could be considered damaging to the country’s image. You can only take photographs of Egyptian citizens can if you have their written permission. Do not photograph officials without their consent. Taking pictures of children is not allowed.

Photography of, or near, military property is strictly banned. This includes the Suez Canal. There are sensitivities about taking photographs of embassies, government buildings, churches and religious buildings. British nationals have been arrested for photographing churches, electricity stations, train stations and bridges. If you are in any doubt, get permission before taking photographs.

Do not use radio controlled helicopters or ‘drones’ to take photographs.

The import, production or use of drones is banned in Egypt unless you have prior authorisation from the Egyptian Ministry of Defence . Anyone who uses or imports drones without authorisation could be sent to prison for up to 7 years or fined 5,000 to 50,000 Egyptian pounds.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is not explicitly criminalised in Egypt, but LGBT+ people have been prosecuted under the law of ‘debauchery’. People have been arrested for flying rainbow flags at public events on debauchery charges.

There is little public acceptance of homosexuality in Egypt. Public expressions of homosexuality or displays of affection between same-sex couples are likely to get negative attention. See our information and advice page for the LGBT+ community before you travel.

Be cautious about sharing content or having discussions of a sexual nature on social media, especially about sexual acts that are considered illegal. Some travellers have been arrested and imprisoned for this.

Children and young people

Egyptian family law is very different from UK law, particularly around child custody. See FCDO guidance for those affected by international parental child abduction and how to get assistance.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Insurance for adventure activities.

Make sure your travel insurance, or the tour or dive company, covers the costs for any air or sea rescue. The current fee can exceed 4,000 US dollars per hour. The Egyptian authorities will only undertake rescue operations when there’s a guarantee of payment. Book excursions for activities at your resort or through approved agents or tour operators.

See FCDO travel insurance guidance for more information on travel insurance.

Hot air balloons

Some UK tour operators have not been able to verify the safety standards for balloon flight operators and have stopped selling balloon flights. There have been a number of injuries and fatal accidents. Speak to your tour company before booking.

Diving and snorkelling

Safety standards of diving operators in Red Sea resorts vary considerably. Never dive or snorkel unaccompanied. Where possible make bookings through your tour representative. Very cheap operators may not provide adequate safety and insurance standards. Diving beyond the depth limit of your insurance policy will invalidate your cover.

Shark attacks are rare, but there have been a number involving tourists in the Red Sea region. Monitor any updates from local authorities or your tour operator.

Quad bikes and desert visits

There have been several serious quad bike accidents involving British nationals in resort areas. Take the same precautions as you would in the UK. Safety standards can vary considerably. Always wear a crash helmet.

There is a small risk from unexploded landmines in some desert areas, including:

• in the north west of Egypt near to Alamein
• on some limited stretches of the Mediterranean coast near Marsa Matrouh
• on the Red Sea coast south of Suez

Dangerous areas are usually well marked with signs and barbed wire fencing. Take care and follow local advice, especially if planning trips off marked roads.

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Egypt, see information on driving abroad .

You can drive in Egypt on an International Driving Permit for up to 6 months. If you intend to stay in Egypt for a longer period you must apply for an Egyptian driving licence.

You may not be allowed to import a vehicle into Egypt. If you want to bring in a vehicle temporarily, you will need a ‘carnet de passage’ from the Automobile Association.

Accidents are common because of poor road conditions, dangerous driving and poor enforcement of traffic laws. Do not drive outside main cities and resorts at night. Make sure you have adequate insurance.

If you’re travelling off-road, employ a qualified guide and get a permit from the Ministry of Interior.

You must wear a seatbelt in the front of a vehicle.

Rail and bus travel

There have been serious bus crashes in recent years with large numbers of fatalities, including tourists.

There have also been fatal train collisions and derailments.

Suspect devices have been found at train stations and on the rail network. Although some have been hoaxes or false alarms you should be vigilant.

River and sea travel

Overcrowding and poor safety standards have led to several accidents on Red Sea ferries and Nile cruisers.

This section has safety advice for regions of Egypt. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO ’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice .

Egypt-Libya Border

FCDO advises against all travel to within 20km of the Egyptian-Libyan border, due to active military operations that target criminal activity, except for the border town of El Salloum (where we advise against all but essential travel).

FCDO advises against all travel to the Governorate of North Sinai, due to continuing criminal activity and terrorist attacks on police and security forces that have resulted in deaths.

There are frequent reports of terrorist attacks in North Sinai. Most attacks are in the northeast corner of the governorate between Al-Arish city and the border with Gaza, but the whole of the North Sinai Governorate is at risk. A state of emergency in North Sinai is in effect and a curfew is in place.

Most attacks in North Sinai are against the Egyptian government and military installations and personnel. However attacks have been carried out against civilians suspected of working with the authorities and local religious minority groups.

The northern part of South Sinai

If you plan to travel in a 4x4 vehicle from mainland Egypt through the Suez crossing, you need a permit from the Travel Permits Department of the Egyptian Ministry of the Interior. You should book any activities outside of resort areas through approved agents or tour operators.

Additional security measures are in place to protect the resorts of Sharm el Sheikh, Hurghada and Marsa Alam and other tourist areas on the Red Sea. Security forces carry out routine security checks on vehicles and at airports. These are in the southern part of the Sinai Peninsula and further south. These areas do not have a travel advice warning.

Ismailiyah Governorate

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the eastern part of the Ismailiyah Governorate east of the Suez Canal due to ongoing military operations against terrorists and criminals. Egyptian authorities at checkpoints may prevent onward travel to this region.

FCDO  advises against all but essential travel to the area west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions, except for:

Tourists who enter the Western Desert areas of Bahariya Oasis, Farafra, the White Desert and Black Desert must apply for permits in advance and use an official guide. There is limited phone reception and poor medical facilities. Monitor travel advice and follow guidance from official guides and local authorities.

The FCDO advises against all but essential travel on the road between Al Bawiti and Siwa, including the desert areas near the start of the road in Bahariya. The road is closed and there are military checkpoints.

If you travel to the south west corner of Egypt near the border with Sudan or Libya you will need a permit from the Travel Permits Department of the Egyptian Ministry of the Interior . Bandits and armed groups operate in these areas.

Act with extreme caution in all border areas.

The  FCDO  advises against all but essential travel to the Hala’ib Triangle and Bir Tawil Trapezoid.

The Hala’ib Triangle remains disputed territory between Egypt and Sudan. If you’re in the Hala’ib Triangle and need urgent consular assistance, you should contact the British Embassy Cairo .

The Bir Tawil Trapezoid is unclaimed by either Egypt or Sudan. If you’re in this area and need urgent consular assistance, contact the British Embassy in the country you last travelled through (either the British Embassy Cairo or the British Embassy Khartoum .

Egypt-Sudan border

There are large numbers of people trying to cross the border into Egypt. There are 2 main land border crossings between Egypt and Sudan - Qustul and Argeen. The nearest town in Sudan to the crossings is Wadi Halfa (30km from border).

Travel in and from Sudan is taken at your own risk. There is almost no infrastructure at these border crossings. People are waiting several days to cross the border, with very limited access to food and water. The British Embassy in Egypt does not have staff at the border. Our ability to provide consular assistance is very limited.

If you are a British national planning to cross into Egypt at Argeen or Qustul, and you do not have valid documentation with you, contact the British Embassy in Cairo on + 20 (0)2 2791 6000.

If you are have crossed the border into Egypt, and need consular assistance, contact the British Embassy in Cairo on + 20 (0)2 2791 6000.

Read FCDO ’s Sudan travel advice .

If you are in Egypt and need consular assistance, such as an emergency travel document, contact the British Embassy in Cairo on + 20 (0)2 2791 6000.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 123 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

the latest information on vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Egypt guide

where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

Some prescribed and over-the-counter medicines may be controlled substances in Egypt. You may need permission from Egypt’s Ministry of Health before you arrive. If you do not have prior permission or the required documentation, the medication will not be allowed in and you may be prosecuted under Egyptian law.

If you’re travelling with prescription medication, carry a letter from your GP that specifies:

• your condition
• the quantity of medication you will be carrying
• that the medication is for your personal use only

For further information, contact the Egyptian Embassy in London.

Healthcare facilities in Egypt

FCDO has a list of English speaking doctors in Egypt .

Some hotel doctors have overcharged for treatment and medicines. Review your bill closely for excessive charges. Pharmacies outside hotels will often supply medication at lower prices.

Access to specialised treatment for psychiatric illness is limited and may not be available outside major cities.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Egypt

Ambulance: 123

Police: 122

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking  lawyers ,  funeral directors  and  translators and interpreters  in Egypt
• dealing with a  death in Egypt
• being  arrested in Egypt
• getting help if you’re a  victim of crime
• what to do if you’re  in hospital
• if you are affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

You can also contact FCDO online

Help abroad in an emergency

If you are abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

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The 8 best places to visit in Egypt

Aug 18, 2023 • 8 min read

There's much more to Egypt than the pyramids at Giza, but you certainly don't want to miss them © Hady Nyah / Getty Images

From diving the Red Sea’s crystal blue waters and stargazing amid the vastness of the desert to floating down the Nile River and standing in awestruck wonder before the ruins of one of the world’s most ancient civilizations... When it comes to travel experiences, Egypt is a destination that leaves visitors spoiled for choice.

With so much to see, the struggle for many visitors is just where to begin – as always, we’re happy to help! Here is our pick of the 8 best places to visit in Egypt.

Egypt’s bustling capital city is layered with cultural, religious, architectural and even culinary history. Its wonders stretch far beyond the walls of its famous museums. You can take in centuries worth of sights just by walking down the city streets, and discover untapped wonders just by saying hello to a stranger. Then there are the Pyramids of Giza , truly a wonder of the world.

At the epicenter of history in the core of the city is Islamic Cairo, the city's most atmospheric quarter. Just grab your camera and venture down its vibrant alleyways. Take in the views from the Citadel and the old city gates – known as Bab Zuweila , Bab al-Futuh and Bab an Nasr – and admire the intricate details of the area’s stunning mosques. The ancient Mosque of Muhammad Ali , Ibn Tulun Mosque and Al-Hakim Mosque are particularly incredible. Islamic Cairo is also home to monument-lined Muizz Street and Khan El-Khalili bazaar – great spots to grab some souvenirs (if your haggling skills are up to the task).

A more under-the-radar-spot is Coptic Cairo, home to the Coptic Museum , the Hanging Church , the towers of the vanished Babylon fortress – the focal point of Egypt’s tiny Christian minority since the first century CE.

Local tip: By night, Cairo transforms thanks to its buzzing nightlife scene – sip a drink in historic downtown bars or take in live performances at hip clubs and art spaces.

2. Marsa Alam

Life is definitely better when you’re scuba diving through colorful corals and swimming with dolphins, dugongs and sea turtles in Marsa Alam ’s beautiful blue waters. A serene escape on the western shore of the Red Sea, Marsa Alam is one of the top spots in Egypt for underwater escapes . Popular dive spots include the Elphinstone reef and Abu Dabbab, one of the world's top beaches for snorkeling .

For land-based adventures, head to Wadi el Gemal National Park, where you can lay back by the water at Hankorab Beach or safari, hike or bike through rugged, mountainous terrain. Keep an eye out for camels at Sharm El Luli Beach or take in the beautiful scenery at the resort town of Qulaan.

To learn about Marsa Alam’s local Bedouin community, visit the Ababda House Cultural Museum or have dinner and an aromatic cup of Jebena coffee with the locals.

Detour: If you're looking for interesting souvenirs, head to Ghosoun and Hamata and meet local tribeswomen making unique hand-woven crafts and jewelry (each tribe has its own unique patterns and styles). 

The site of the magnificent ancient city of Thebes, Luxor is said to preserve a third of the world’s ancient monuments between the pillars of its majestic temples. Dubbed the world’s greatest open-air museum, the capital of Upper Egypt recently celebrated the grand reopening of the 2.7km (1.7 mile) Avenue of the Sphinxes, an ancient thoroughfare connecting Karnak Temple , home of the famed Temple of Amun-Ra , and the impressively preserved Luxor Temple .

A sunrise hot air balloon ride will give you a captivating bird's-eye view of this city of ancient wonders. Once you're back on the ground, head to Hatshepsut Temple and Medinet Habu – two massive ancient architectural wonders that feature prominently on travelers' Instagram feeds – and cross the river to the Valley of the Kings , the royal burial site of Tutankhamun, Seti I and Ramses II.

Palm trees and patches of greenery cling to the dusty riverbanks of Aswan , one of Egypt’s most tranquil locations, celebrated for the unmatched hospitality of its Nubian community. Sail your way to any of the 20 river islands accessible by felucca, the traditional wooden sailboats that ply the river Nile.

To learn more about Nubian culture, visit the island of Gharb Soheil or stroll around the colorful streets of Aswan's Nubian Village. Sample homestyle veggie-based or chicken tagines in local cafes, or purchase aromatic spices from the vibrantly colorful Aswan spice market.

Aswan is famed for its stunning sunsets, which you can watch from any of the islands or while sailing the Nile on a felucca. Another top spot for watching the sunset is the restaurant at the iconic Sofitel Legend Old Catarac t where English author Agatha Christie penned her famous mystery, Death on the Nile .

Local tip: If you’re willing to wake up at 3am for the journey south across the desert, a day trip to Abu Simbel is a history buff’s dream; the whole temple complex was moved when the valley was flooded by the Aswan High Dam in the 1960s. If you’d rather let the sun wake up before you, explore Aswan’s Temple of Isis , also moved from its original location on Philae Island.

5. Black and White Deserts

The appeal of Egypt’s Black and White Deserts is quite literally black and white. These monochrome landscapes are like something out of a sci-fi movie, but the surreal scenery is a product of natural geology – the White Desert’s uniquely shaped limestone rock formations give the illusion of a snowscape, while the Black Desert features small black volcanic stones scattered over bright orange-colored sand.

A visit to either of these desert areas is perfect for a stargazing camping trip – it's the ultimate escape for anyone who’s had their fill of temples and big city traffic. The White Desert and Black Desert lie just south of the Bahariya Oasis , in Egypt’s Western Desert , which is accessible by bus from Cairo.

Local tip: While you’re out there, make sure you visit Crystal Mountain, a natural rock arch surrounded by glittering walls of quartz crystals, and Djara Cave, one of the country's most impressive, stalactite-filled caves. You’ll need to crouch down to enter the cave, but once inside, the ceiling looks like it’s coated in giant icicles. 

6. Egypt's Mediterranean Coast

Egypt’s northern shoreline – affectionately known as El Sahel, meaning "The Coast" – is the ultimate summer escape on the shores of the Mediterranean. This sun-kissed coastal strip comes alive from May to September every year, drawing hordes of beach bums by day, and a veritable who’s who of Egypt’s party people by night.

The strip is lined with luxurious hotels and resorts, upscale residential compounds and world-class restaurants such as The Smokery Beach at Stella di Mare  and  Kiki's Beach at Hacienda White. The shores of Sahel are where you’ll find most of Cairo’s millennial and Gen Z crowd on Egypt’s hottest summer days.

7. Siwa oasis

Far removed from the mayhem of Egypt's big cities, this little gem of an oasis is home to Siwan Bedouin people who follow a largely traditional way of life, and the town has thus far been only lightly touched by tourism. The locals are Amazigh tribespeople, who have managed to preserve much of their linguistic and cultural heritage thanks to the isolated location of their oasis home.

Siwa is often described as "the Sunset Oasis", and its sunsets are indeed unparalleled in Egypt. Whether you find a vantage point atop Dakrour Mountain or the ruined Shali Fortress , or take in the scenery and serenity of Taghaghien Island or Fatnas Island, you’re promised an unforgettable sunset. You can also expect a lot of mosquitos, so don’t forget your repellent.

Siwa is a prime destination for tourists looking to escape the winter chill and it's a leaping off point for the Great Sand Sea (the world’s third-largest dune field), swimmable hot and cold springs and crystal clear salt lakes where you can float effortlessly, supported by the saline waters.

Siwa is also famed for producing some of the country’s best dates, and you may be able to sample straight from the tree – just ask locals first. Every November, Siwa holds the Siwi Palm Date Festival.

Local tip: Try the local Abu Mardem chicken or lamb – a spiced dish that’s marinated for eight hours before being put into an iron pot and buried under the sand to cook.

8. El Gouna

It’s always sunny in this fully-integrated little town along the pristine shoreline of the Red Sea, just north of Hurghada. El Gouna has become the base for a multinational community of digital nomads, young families, and expats convinced that life is better by the water.

El Gouna has great aquatic activities, and lots of options for hiking and safaris in the surrounding desert landscapes, appealing to younger travelers. It also has bougie boutiques, cultural events and top-tier culinary experiences thanks to its many upscale restaurants, appealing to an older set.

With its world-class services, restaurants and living spaces, it's a great place to visit but also a fine place to set up your seaside office. There are plenty of coworking spaces and solid wifi connections, and lots of ways to keep busy outside of work hours – why work from home when you can work from El Gouna?

This article was first published Jan 10, 2022 and updated Aug 18, 2023.

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20 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Egypt

Written by Jess Lee Updated Oct 16, 2023

Home of the ancient Pharaohs, Egypt is a destination full of dazzling temples and tombs that wow all who visit. It's not all historic treasures and tourist attractions, though. With vast tracts of desert for 4WD adventures, the Red Sea's world-class coral reefs and wrecks for divers, and cruising on the famed Nile River, there are plenty of things to do in Egypt for all types of travelers.

Beach lovers head to the Sinai or the Red Sea Coast to soak up the sun, while archaeology fans will have a field day in Luxor.

Cairo is the megalopolis that can't be beaten for city slickers, while Siwa oasis and the southern town of Aswan offer a slice of the slow pace of the countryside.

With so much to see and do, Egypt offers visitors a chance to create itineraries that combine culture, adventure, and relaxation all on one trip.

Plan your sightseeing with our list of the top attractions and places to visit in Egypt.

1. Pyramids of Giza

2. luxor's temples & tombs, 3. cruising the nile, 5. abu simbel, 6. diving the red sea, 7. explore historic cairo, 8. south sinai's beach life, 10. egyptian museum, 11. white desert, 12. alexandria, 13. abydos temple, 14. siwa oasis, 15. st. catherine's monastery, 16. red sea beaches, 17. coptic cairo, 18. wadi al-hitan, 19. temple of hathor, 20. monastery of st. anthony.

The last surviving wonder of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Pyramids of Giza are one of the world's most recognizable landmarks.

Having awed travelers down through the ages, these tombs of the Pharaohs Khufu (Cheops), Khafre (Chephren), and Menkaure (Mycerinus), guarded by the enigmatic Sphinx, are usually top of most visitor's lists of tourist attractions to see in Egypt and often the first sight they head to after landing.

Today, sitting on the desert edge of Cairo's sprawl, these megalithic memorials to dead pharaohs are still as wondrous a sight as they ever were and an undeniable highlight of any Egypt trip.

To beat the crowds , get here around 7:30am and enter through the main Pyramid of Khufu site entrance (rather than the Sphinx entrance). This means you can have finished exploring the interior tunnels and burial chambers of the Pyramid of Khufu by the time the tour buses start pulling in at 8:15am.

Most visitors limit their site visit to the three pyramids and the Sphinx, but there is plenty more to see on the Giza Plateau. If you can, reserve time to explore the funerary complexes of the eastern cemetery (on the east side of the Pyramid of Khufu). The tombs of 6th dynasty high officials Qar and Idu and the tomb of Meresankh III (who was one of Pharaoh Khafre's wives) are all open to the public.

• Read More: Pyramids of Giza: Attractions, Tips & Tours

Famed for the Valley of the Kings , Karnak Temple , and the Memorial Temple of Hatshepsut, the Nile-side town of Luxor in Upper Egypt has a glut of tourist attractions.

This is ancient Thebes, the power base of the New Kingdom pharaohs, and home to more sights than most can see on one visit.

Luxor's east bank is home to the modern city, with its vibrant souq; the two temples of Karnak and Luxor; and the museum. The west bank's lush farmland and barren cliffs are where the vast majority of Luxor's tourist attractions sit, with so many tomb and temple sights that it has been called the biggest open-air museum in the world.

Spend a few days here exploring the colorful wall art of the tombs and gazing in awe at the colossal columns in the temples, and you'll see why Luxor continues to fascinate historians and archaeologists.

The Valley of the Kings is one of Egypt's most visited sites but, if you are willing to get up extra early, you can beat the crowds . All of Luxor's archaeological sites open at 6am, but hardly any visitors (and no large tour operators) take advantage of this.

Kick off your sightseeing with a 6am start at the Valley of the Kings, and you'll get to experience the interiors of Luxor's famed New Kingdom tombs with hardly anyone else (except the handful of other wily early risers) there.

Egypt is defined by the Nile. For many visitors, a multi-day cruise upon this famed waterway that saw the rise of the Pharaonic era is a highlight of their Egypt trip.

Cruising the Nile is also the most relaxing way to see the temples that stud the banks of the river on the route between Luxor and Aswan, plus sunrise and sunset over the date-palm-studded river banks, backed by sand dunes, is one of Egypt's most tranquil vistas.

The two famous sights on a Nile Cruise are the Temple of Kom Ombo and Edfu's Temple of Horus , where all the big cruise boats stop.

If you'd prefer a less crowded and slower experience, though, and don't mind "roughing it" a bit, you can also cruise the Nile by felucca (Egypt's traditional lateen-sailed wooden boats), which also allows you to create your own itinerary.

The vast amount of cruise boat itineraries depart from either Luxor or Aswan, but feluccas can only be chartered for multi-day trips from Aswan.

Egypt's most tranquil town is Aswan, set upon the winding curves of the Nile. Backed by orange-hued dunes, this is the perfect place to stop and unwind for a few days and soak up the chilled-out atmosphere.

Take the river ferry across to Elephantine Island and stroll the colorful streets of the Nubian villages. Then ride a camel to the desert monastery of St. Simeon on Aswan's east bank. Afterwards, relax in one of the riverboat restaurants while watching the lateen-sailed feluccas drift past.

Make sure to jump aboard a felucca at sunset to sail around Aswan's islands. This is by far, Aswan's most popular activity and the most relaxing way to take in the local sights.

There are plenty of historic sites here and numerous temples nearby, including Philae Temple on its island, but one of Aswan's most popular things to do is simply kicking back and watching the river life go by.

Even in a country festooned with temples, Abu Simbel is something special. This is Ramses II's great temple, adorned with colossal statuary standing guard outside, and with an interior sumptuously decorated with wall paintings.

Justly famous for its megalithic proportions, Abu Simbel is also known for the incredible engineering feat carried out by UNESCO in the 1960s, which saw the entire temple moved from its original setting to save it from disappearing under the rising water of the Aswan Dam.

Today, exploring Abu Simbel is just as much about admiring the triumph of this international effort to save the temple complex as it is about gaping in wonder at Ramses II's awe-inspiring building works, itself.

Most people arrive in Abu Simbel on organized day trips from Aswan, which all have an early morning start to get to the temple complex at 8am or 9am.

After 11am, nearly everyone has cleared out and headed back to Aswan. To wander through Ramses II's colossal monument without the crowds, overnight in Abu Simbel village itself and visit the temples after midday.

Below the Red Sea's surface is another world as fascinating as the temples and tombs on land.

The coral reefs of the Red Sea are renowned among scuba divers for both the soft corals on display and the vast amount of sea life, ranging from colorful reef fish and nudibranchs to sharks, dolphins, turtles, rays, and even dugongs.

For divers, the most famous town to base yourself in is Sharm el-Sheikh on the Sinai Peninsula, closest to the reefs of Ras Mohammed National Park, as well as the reefs of the Straits of Tiran.

To dive the sites of the Straits of Gubal head to Hurghada or El Gouna on the Red Sea coast, while advanced divers should check out the resort of Marsa Alam, the nearest base for diving Egypt's "deep south" dive sites.

As well as fish life and coral, the Red Sea is a major wreck-diving destination. The most famous wreck is the Thistlegorm, a British WWII cargo ship that was on its way to resupply Allied troops when it was bombed by the Germans in 1941.

Today the site is regarded by divers as one of the top five wreck dives in the world due to the vast cargo of cars, motorbikes, and WWII memorabilia that can be seen both scattered on the sea bed around the wreck and inside the ship itself.

Dive boat trips to the wreck are organized from both Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada.

The Red Sea offers year-round diving but for the calmest sea conditions and best underwater visibility, July and August are the best months . This is high summer in Egypt though with its accompanying sweltering on-land temperatures. If your Egypt trip doesn't solely revolve around diving, it's still best to avoid these months.

Read More: Diving in the Red Sea: Best Dive Sites

The atmospheric, narrow lanes of the capital's Historic Cairo district are crammed full of mosques, madrassas (Islamic schools of learning), and monuments dating from the Fatimid through to the Mameluke eras.

This is where you'll find the labyrinth shopping souq of Khan el-Khalili, where coppersmiths and artisans still have their tiny workshops, and stalls are laden with ceramics, textiles, spice, and perfume.

Surrounding the market is a muddle of roads, home to some of the most beautiful preserved architecture of the old Islamic empires.

There is a wealth of history here to explore. Visit Al-Azhar Mosque and the dazzling Sultan Hassan Mosque , and make sure to climb up to the roof of the ancient medieval gate of Bab Zuweila for the best minaret-speckled panoramas across the district.

Mornings are the best time to visit this district as the narrow lanes are at their quietest. If you're planning to visit the area's mosques though, avoid visiting on Fridays (the Muslim holy day) . If you want to enter mosques as a tourist, dress conservatively (covering arms and legs) and bring along a scarf to throw over your head if you're female.

Keen shoppers should head to Khan el-Khalili in the evening: the shops here are all open until late and the souq is at its most vibrant after dark.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Cairo & Easy Day Trips

Egypt's South Sinai region, on the Sinai Peninsula, offers a beach for every type of traveler.

Sharm el-Sheikh is a European-style resort town packed full of luxury hotels, international restaurants, and bags of entertainment options. A favorite with Europeans on winter-sun vacations, many of the resorts here cater to families on one- or two-week sun-and-sand breaks.

Dahab is a low-key beach town with a budget-traveler heart, which is just as much about desert excursions and adventures as the sea. It's particularly known for its cheap dive-package deals and for its lagoon beach area where windsurfing and kitesurfing are the top activity.

Up the coast, between the port town of Nuweiba and the border town of Taba are the bamboo hut retreats that offer complete get-away-from-it-all respites from life and back-to-basics beach life.

Everyone's heard of Giza's Pyramids, but they're not the only pyramids Egypt has up its sleeve. Day-tripping distance from Cairo , Saqqara is a vast necropolis of tombs and pyramids that was utilized during every era of Pharaonic rule.

It's best known for its Old Kingdom Step Pyramid, which shows how the architects of Ancient Egypt advanced their engineering knowledge to finally create a true pyramid shape.

There's much more to see beyond the Step Pyramid, though, with some of the surrounding tombs, such as the Mastaba of Ti, showcasing some of the finest tomb paintings you'll see in the country.

Nearby, the pyramid site of Dahshur is home to the Red Pyramid and Bent Pyramid, which should be included on any Saqqara visit.

• Read More: Exploring Saqqara: A Visitor's Guide

A treasure trove of the Pharaonic world, Cairo's Egyptian Museum is one of the world's great museum collections . The faded pink mansion in downtown Cairo is home to a dazzling amount of exhibits.

The museum's exhibits cover the breadth of the Pharaonic era with highlights including its artifacts from pre-dynastic Egypt, the Old Kingdom galleries displaying the fine statuary from Egypt's period of pyramid builders, and the displays of glittering funerary goods unearthed from the country's most famous tomb finds.

Make sure to reserve enough time at the museum to fully view the galleries devoted to the grave goods of Yuya and Thuya and the royal tombs of Tanis (both upstairs).

Until Giza's much-delayed Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) opens, the Egyptian Museum is also where you come to see a selection of the riches from Tutankhamen's Valley of the Kings tomb. When the GEM finally does open, these will be moved there (and the entire Tutankhamen collection will be displayed in full for the first time).

Everything else though in the Egyptian Museum's collection will be staying in place.

Egypt's kookiest natural wonder is White Desert National Park, out in the Western Desert, just south of Bahariya Oasis. Here, surreally shaped chalk pinnacles and huge boulders loom over the desert plateau, creating a scene that looks like icebergs have found themselves stranded amid a landscape of sand.

This highly scenic environment looks like something out of a science fiction movie and is a favorite destination for 4WD desert trips and overnight camping , which are both easiest organized in Bahariya Oasis.

For desert fans and adventurers, this is the ultimate weird playground, while anybody who's had their fill of temples and tombs will enjoy this spectacular natural scenery.

Alexandria has a history that not many others can match.

Founded by Alexander the Great, home of Cleopatra, and razzmatazz renegade city of the Mediterranean for much of its life, this seafront city has an appealing days-gone-by atmosphere that can't be beaten.

Although today, there are few historic remnants of its illustrious past left to see, Alexandria's long seafront Corniche road leading to its fort (sitting on the site where its famous ancient lighthouse once sat) remains a favorite summer destination to capture cooling sea breezes for Egyptians and foreign visitors alike.

Underwater archaeological projects here have imbued Alexandria's museums with interesting exhibits. The modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a contemporary interpretation of Alexandria's famed ancient library, and the handful of historic sights in town include an atmospheric catacombs site.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Alexandria

The Temple of Osiris in Abydos is one of Ancient Egypt's most fascinating artistic treasures.

The temple, begun by Seti I, sits amid a vast necropolis site where archaeological excavations are ongoing. There a various other temple remnants to see here but for most visitors, the Temple of Osiris is the main reason to visit.

Its hypostyle halls, graced by papyrus-headed columns, contain some of the finest relief-work in Egypt, with various scenes portraying the pharaoh and the gods of Ancient Egypt.

As the temple lies north of Luxor, it isn't on the main Nile cruise ship route, so it receives much fewer visitors than the temple sites in Luxor itself and the Nile-side temples to the south. This means you are often lucky enough to wander through the temple's halls with only a few other visitors on site.

• Read More: Exploring The Temples of Abydos: A Visitor's Guide

Sitting in isolation, in the western corner of the Western Desert, Siwa is the tranquil tonic to the hustle of Egypt's cities. This gorgeous little oasis, surrounded by date palm plantations and numerous hot-water springs, is one of the Western Desert's most picturesque spots.

Siwa town is centered around the ruins of a vast mud-brick citadel, known as the Fortress of Shali, which dominates the view, while various temple remnants, including the Temple of the Oracle where Alexander the Great is said to have come to receive advice, are scattered throughout the wider oasis area.

This is a top spot to wind down and go slow for a few days, as well as being an excellent base from which to plan adventures into the surrounding desert.

One of the oldest monasteries in the world, St. Catherine's stands at the foot of Mount Sinai, amid the desert mountains of the Sinai Peninsula, where Moses is said to have received the Ten Commandments.

This desert monastery is home to an incredible collection of religious iconography, art, and manuscripts (some of which can be seen in the on-site museum), as well as the burning bush.

For most visitors here, a trip to St. Catherine's also involves a hike up Mount Sinai to see sunrise or sunset. Take the camel path for the easy route, or climb the famous Steps of Repentance if you want better views.

Egypt's Red Sea coastline offers swaths of sand for travelers who want a time-out from temple viewing.

During winter, the resorts scattered along the shore surrounding Hurghada jump into life as European families arrive on package tourism breaks.

The big bonus of choosing a resort on the Red Sea coast over one on the Sinai Peninsula is that you are within day-tripping distance to Luxor, so this is the best place to visit for beach life if you still want to easily see some of Egypt's most famous monuments.

Hurghada and El Gouna are the two main resort towns, while the smaller, and still being-developed, town of Marsa Alam is much farther south.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Red Sea Region

The Cairo district known as Coptic Cairo is one of the most important Christian sites in the country.

Originally the Fortress of Babylon, dating back to the Achaemenid Empire's conquest of Egypt in 525 BCE, this district is home to Cairo's oldest surviving church, synagogue, and mosque, as well as the excellent Coptic Museum, which holds the world's largest collection of Coptic Christian art and antiquities.

A section of the Fortress of Babylon's walls, which were repaired and expanded under Roman rule, are also still standing and are the entrance into the district.

Make sure to visit the Hanging Church, which holds a fine collection of icons and was built half over the Roman-era water wheel (hence the church's name). Then thread your way down the narrow alley to the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus which, according to local tradition, was built atop the site where the Holy Family with the infant Jesus lived in refuge after fleeing King Herod.

Nearby, the Ben Ezra Synagogue is famous for being the site where the Geniza documents cache were discovered.

A short walk away is the Mosque of Amr Ibn Al As, built by the Arab Muslim army commander (and later, first governor of Egypt) after conquering Egypt.

Wadi Al-Hitan is in the Fayoum area, a lush and fertile depression fed by ancient canals and surrounded by desert.

The Fayoum itself, with Lake Quran, the pottery village of Tunis, and Pharaonic ruins scattered across the hinterland, is an interesting place to visit, but the main tourist attraction here, in the nearby desert, is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Wadi Al-Hitan.

Amid the orange dunes and jagged rocks of this desert valley, a vast fossil cache of the oldest prehistoric whales (the basilosaurus and dorodontus) were discovered, hugely aiding human understanding of the evolution of whales.

Some of the finds have been kept in situ, with walking tracks radiating out from the visitor's center to skeleton sites sitting amid the sand.

In the visitor center itself, a museum dedicated to the site does an excellent job of explaining Wadi Al-Hitan's importance, and displays many of the site's other finds, including a skeleton of a basilosaurus whale that measures 18 meters long.

The Temple of Hathor at Dendara was built in the late Pharaonic era and extended during the Roman period, though Dendara itself was an important cult center from early on in the period of Ancient Egypt.

A trip here is well worth a day trip from Luxor, as the temple's youth (in comparison to other Pharaonic temples) means that it is one of the most complete surviving temples in Egypt.

The reliefs and decoration here are in an excellently preserved state. In particular, while in the hypostyle hall, which was built by the Roman Emperor Tiberius, note the columns topped by heads of the Egyptian god Hathor, and the wall reliefs of the emperor paying tribute to the Egyptian gods.

Dendara is just outside the city of Qena, 80 kilometers north from Luxor.

Secreted within the jagged northern mountains of the Red Sea coast, the Monastery of St. Anthony has been a working monastery since the 4th century, and today is still home to around 120 monks.

The Church of St. Anthony, within the fortress-like compound, has an interior of secco wall paintings that are considered one of the most important collections of Egyptian Coptic art in the world and date from around the 11th and 12th centuries. The church is also home to the tomb of St. Anthony (the father of monasticism) and is a major pilgrimage destination for Egyptian Coptic Christians.

Monks run tours of the monastery that include visiting the church and some of the monastery's gardens, as well as allowing you to head up and walk on top of the monastery's walls.

St. Anthony's Monastery is very isolated. If you don't have your own transport, the easiest way to get here is to hire a driver from Cairo or Hurghada.

More on Egypt

Ultimate EGYPT Travel Guide

Egypt is a country located in Africa and the Middle East . Cairo is the capital and it is a country known for its history, temples, culture, and scuba diving. This is our ultimate Egypt travel guide.

We have spent two months across two visits that have spanned the country from Abu Simbel in the South, Cairo in the North, and the far reaches of the Sinai Peninsula.

Egypt has a lot to offer the traveler with more history and historical sites to match than you will find in any other part of the World. The culture is rich and people welcoming.

Honestly, it is one of the most fascinating places you can ever visit and a country that we would visit over and over again, as there is always something fascinating to see or learn during a visit.

Destinations

Egypt travel: quick tips.

Don’t Visit EGYPT Without:

UNIVERSAL TRAVEL ADAPTER

GET A GUIDEBOOK

REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE

EGYPT BUCKET LIST

SEE THE GREAT PYRAMIDS OF GIZA

Egypt is all about pyramids and the Great Pyramids of Giza are the main event. Be sure to give yourself a full day so you can take a camel ride and explore the complex on foot.

HOT AIR BALLOON OVER LUXOR

There is no better way to experience a sunrise in Egypt than by loading into a hot air balloon and floating over the Nile River near Luxor. It also offers an unbelievable perspective of the Valley of the Kings.

VALLEY OF THE KINGS

Besides pyramids, tombs are one of the main reasons that you will want to visit Egypt. The Valley of the Kings on the West Bank of Luxor houses some of the most incredible tombs within the country.

MORE THINGS TO TRY IN EGYPT

There is no shortage of great things to do in Egypt during your visit and the biggest problem you’ll face is fitting them all into your itinerary.

Each city has it’s own offering and unique things to check out during a visit, so be sure to look at our city guides once you decide where you’re itinerary will take you.

VISIT ALEXANDRIA:  One of the most popular day trips from Cairo is to visit the city of Alexandria. Sitting on the Mediterranean Sea, this city offers a completely different vibe to Cairo. It’s rich in history and despite many of its iconic sites being far gone, there is still plenty to see in the city.

SCUBA DIVE IN THE RED SEA: The Red Sea offers some of the most spectacular scuba diving opportunities in the world. Dive sites litter the entire coast of Egypt meaning you don’t have to search hard for some great diving. The best sites can be found off the Sinai Peninsula near Sharm el Sheik and Dahab.

VISIT ABU SIMBEL: In our opinion, this is one of the most spectacular sites in all of Egypt. Relocated when the Aswan Dam was constructed, to avoid it sinking in the now Lake Nassar, this temple is a sight to behold. Visits happen in the early morning hours from Aswan and the drive is exhausting, 6 hours round trip, but it is so worth it.

TRADITIONAL FELUCCA TRIP ON THE NILE: When in Aswan, it is possible to take a wide variety of traditional felucca trips . Our personal favorite though is an overnight trip from Aswan to Kom Ombo. These trips are quiet and peaceful, allowing you to reconnect with nature. It’s a unique and special way to experience the Nile River and the traditional Egyptian lifestyle.

VISIT THE MUSEUM OF EGYPTIAN ANTIQUITIES: We love this museum. So much so that we have been to it 5 times! It is the most spectacular and authentic museum you will ever lay eyes on. Chronicling the entire existence of Ancient Egypt, you can spend days in this museum and still not see it all.

TAKE A NILE RIVER CRUISE: If you want to see Luxor, Aswan and the places in between, taking a Nile River Cruise is a fantastic way to accomplish it. A slower way of travel, this will allow you to take in life on the Nile River with a little bit of comfort, while still seeing the major sights.

VISIT A NUBIAN VILLAGE FOR TEA: If you have time in Aswan, one of the most unique things to do is take a tour to one of the nearby Nubian Villages for a tea visit. Drinking hibiscus tea, you’ll learn about how the Nubians settled in this part of Egypt.

SEE THE FIRST PYRAMIDS OF EGYPT: While everyone knows of the Great Pyramids, new visitors to Egypt rarely think about the possibility to see other structures. Outside of Cairo you can visit the incredible Step Pyramid of Djoser, one of the earliest in Egypt. Nearby you can also see the Bent Pyramid, which shows the first attempt at the pyramid shape we know today, along with the very first traditional pyramids of Egypt that pre-date Giza.

TRY KOSHARI & FALAFEL: Egyptian cuisine is a fantastic blend of the Middle East and the Mediterranean. Two things you should make a point to try are the national dish of koshari and falafel. Koshari is made with rice, macaroni, and lentils. Topped with tomato sauce, garlic, and french fried onions. It’s available everywhere, so you cannot miss it!

FOODIE BUCKET LIST

Egyptian cuisine is very similar to other Middle Eastern and Meditteranean countries.

FALAFEL: Vegetarians will be happy because a local favorite is a falafel. You’ll find falafel sandwiches and platters everywhere. 

SHAWARMA KEBABS: These wraps will keep you going for cheap all through the day, although usually, the meat is dripping in fat. 

KOSHARI: A dish of rice, macaroni, lentils and more, is often seen as the national dish, while no visit to Egypt is ever complete without eating an Egyptian style pizza.

EGYPTIAN FESTIVALS

There are many great events and festivals which are held through the ear, and which are perfect additions to any Egypt travel itinerary.

RAMADAN: While Ramadan is often not the easiest time for a tourist to be in Egypt, the celebrations that mark the end of this holy Muslim period of fasting, are exceptional to be part of.

SUN FESTIVAL: Lovers all things Ancient Egyptians will want to be in the country, and at the temples, for the ancient Sun Festival, which is still celebrated by many.

PLAN A BUCKET LIST EGYPT TRIP!

Popular regions in egypt.

Cairo is a huge, sprawling metropolis that has the distinction of being both the capital and the largest city of Egypt. Home to over 20 million people, this is an enthralling destination that can leave you both mesmerized and frustrated in equal measure.  Love it or hate it, a visit to Cairo is always an experience, and you can really immerse yourself in the market places, tea houses, and local restaurants to learn about modern Egyptian life. Visit the sprawling bazaars, a day trip to the Pyramids of Giza, and visit the fascinating archaeological museums. Read: 21 Amazing Things to Do in Cairo

Egypt travel isn’t just about the history and pyramids though, and a visit to Hurghada will show you another exciting side of the country. Hurghada is essentially a beach resort town, and it’s the gateway to the Red Sea. You’ll be able to lounge on white-sand beaches, go Scuba Diving or snorkeling in one of the world’s premier marine environments, or enjoy countless watersports or adventure activities. It’s a great holiday destination, and home to Egypt’s best resorts and hotels. Read: 15 Top Things to Do in Hurghada

Luxor is a modern city that’s found on the same site as the ancient Egyptian city of Thebes. Located in the south of the country, on the River Nile, no Egypt travel itinerary is complete without a trip to Luxor.  This is a must-see area for lovers of all things Egyptian because the region is teeming with history and archaeological sites. Luxor is home to temples that are thousands of years old, ancient pyramids lie in the deserts, and the legendary Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens are just a short journey away. Read more: 21 Epic Things to Do in Luxor

Alexandria is one of the most famous cities to be found along the coast of North Africa. This iconic city has a history that predates modern Egypt by centuries because the city was founded by Alexander the Great in the 3rd Century BC. Today, it’s still an important city in the Mediterranean, being the second largest in Egypt and home to over 5 million people. You can explore ancient sites and mingle with modern Egypt at the same time. Read: 15 Unmissable Things to Do in Alexandria

Also located in the south of the country, Aswan is another beautiful destination that’s found along the Nile River. This is one of the most ancient cities in Egypt, and it’s long been the starting point for expeditions further south, into deepest Africa.  Aswan is a colorful and bustling city, home to buzzing bazaars and surrounded by green, oasis-like beauty. You can cruise along the river, explore islands and ruins and enjoy an authentic piece of Egyptian history and culture. Read more: 15 Best Things to Do in Aswan

EGYPT TRAVEL BUDGET

Setting a budget for travel to Egypt is highly dependent on your travel style. It is possible to visit just about anywhere in Egypt on any budget and still have a great trip. That said, you can make your trip as basic or as luxurious as you desire.

To help you set your budget, we’ve included some base range price estimations for travel within Egypt. Of course, keep in mind that prices can fluctuate based on seasons, availability and festivals.

ACCOMMODATION: Accommodation is cheap in Egypt, and you can find great value hotel rooms across the country. Hotel rooms can cost as little as 10 USD for a double room, while resorts can be as low as 30 USD per night for much nicer rooms on the Red Sea. Hostels can be found for 5 USD.

ATTRACTIONS : The bulk of your budget will be spent on activities, and in Egypt, there’s a lot to do. A luxury Nile Cruise could cost as much as 200 USD per person per day, but you can find more rustic, and cheaper options than this of course.

ENTRANCE FEES: Entrance prices vary, but a ticket to the Pyramids of Giza will set you back around 10 USD for instance, with other archaeological sites being a similar cost. Be sure to budget for entrance fees, especially if you are traveling independently. They add up quick!

TRANSPORTATION: Transport is cheap, if erratic in Egypt. Local bus and metro rides in Cairo will cost just 25 cents a journey. Overnight trains to Luxor from Cairo cost around 15 USD. The 3-hour journey from Cairo to Alexandria should only cost 5 USD. Taxis are cheap, but be careful of being ripped off.

FOOD: Food is even cheaper than accommodation, and you can get away with spending as little as 10 USD a day on food while eating out for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as long as you keep to the local places. At western-style restaurants or in hotels, you can expect to pay 10 USD per person for dinner. IF you drink alcoholic drinks though, your costs will go up.

30 USD PER DAY

Staying in basic hotels, but with private rooms and bathrooms. You’ll eat cheaply on the streets, travel with the locals, but still see the best archaeological sites.

UP TO 100 USD PER DAY

Mid-range hotels and eating in more refined restaurants in the evenings. You’ll see the best sites and employ a private guide every few days to learn more.

100 USD + PER DAY

You can live in luxury. Go on luxury Nile Cruises or stay at 5-star resorts on the Red Sea. You’ll have a private driver and guide if you’re traveling around.

WHERE TO STAY IN EGYPT

Below you will find some of the places we have stayed during our travels in Egypt. These are individual properties that we enjoyed and would recommend to other travelers.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN EGYPT

Egypt has an extensive transport network, consisting of buses, trains and even boats and ferries. Tickets are cheap, but the public transport isn’t the most reliable. For this reason, if you’re short on time, travelers often opt to join multi-day tours or to hire a private driver for a few days.

Intercity transport will be by bus or train. Alexandria is just 3 hours from Cairo. Longer distance routes include Cairo to Luxor, but this will be an overnight journey. Many tourists will fly this route to save time. 

FLIGHTS: Taking domestic flights to get between destinations in Egypt is popular and easy. Egypt Air and a number of smaller carriers offer multiple, daily flights between all major destinations within the country.

BUS: For shorter journeys like Alexandria, Hurghada, Sharm el Sheik or Dahab from Cairo, the bus is a great secondary option to flying. The tourist buses are comfortable coach buses and you can’t beat the fares.

CAR RENTAL: It is not advisable to rent a car in Egypt.

TRAIN: If you’re traveling Egypt on a budget or just want a great adventure, it is possible to take the train from Cairo to popular destinations. The journeys are best done in sleeper cars. They are long, think 10 hours for Cairo to Luxor and 14 hours for Cairo to Aswan.

RIVER CRUISING: One of the best ways to see the Nile River is to join a Nile cruise . These range from local boats and ferries right up to full-blown, luxury riverboats. Either way, once you’re aboard, just sit back and watch the river roll past.

TOP EGYPT TOURS

BEST OF EGYPT

8 Days from Cairo, Egypt Adventure Options: Temples, pyramids, tombs, Nubian village & felucca trip

HIGHLIGHTS OF EGYPT

14 Days from Cairo, Egypt Adventure Options: Temples, pyramids, tombs, felucca trip & Abu Simbel extension

EGYPT UPGRADED

12 Days from Cairo, Egypt Adventure Options: Temples, pyramids, tombs, Nile River cruise & Abu Simbel extension

WHEN TO VISIT EGYPT

Egypt enjoys a lovely Mediterranean climate, at least in most destinations. This means that you can expect it to be warm all year round, so technically, you can visit most places at any time of the year.

October to April is perfect if you’re looking for the best weather for your Egypt travel plans, as it’s not too hot this time of the year. This is also the high season though, and prices will be higher.

The Egyptian summer is scorching hot and best avoided, but you’ll get better prices on flights and tours if you can brave the heat.

The Red Sea Resorts will be busy not just in winter , but during summer holidays too, despite the heat, so avoid this area from June through to August to escape the crowds.

The Red Sea is best visited in the shoulder season , in Spring or Fall, when costs are much lower and the crowds thinner.

For more information, check out the  Best Time to Visit Egypt: Month by Month Breakdown

CONSIDER ADDING JORDAN TO YOUR ITINERARY!

Safety in egypt.

Unfortunately, Egypt has a reputation for scams when it comes to tourism, and although most Egyptians are friendly and honest, in the tourist industry you will inevitably run into trouble at some point, even if it’s just minor. 

You’ll be hassled by potential tour guides, taxi drivers and shop keepers, especially in Cairo and the tourist destinations. Be careful how much you pay, and haggle beforehand.

Guides and even guards at museums and archaeological sites will often seek tips too. In bazaars and busy streets, be super careful of your personal belongings, as pickpocketing can be rife in known tourist areas.

The police will be unlikely to be particularly helpful if you have to report a crime, especially for something like theft.  

The major religion is Islam, and it’s best to be conservative in dress and attitude. It’s a very male-oriented society in Egypt, and solo female travelers can, unfortunately, be subject to hassle from Egyptian males.

Women need to stay safe in the cities, particularly at night. 

The country is politically volatile at the best of times, so if events start to unfold while you are in Egypt, stay away from protests and from public squares.

This is mostly relevant if you are in the big cities, such as Cairo or Alexandria. Don’t delve too deep into the local politics, the Egyptian Revolution was only a few years ago, and events may not quite have turned out the way many of the protestors had hoped for.

After two trips to the country spanning two months in total, we wanted to dig into the topic of safety in Egypt a little and also quell some assumptions and myths. so be sure to have a read there is you have any doubts.

As with any destination, we recommend learning and adhering to certain safety practices when you travel. Be sure to read our personal  travel safety tips , compiled from our travels across 7 continents.

EGYPT TRAVEL: BOOKING RESOURCES

Egypt travel guide: related articles.

Looking for more info? Check out all the articles we’ve written on travel to Egypt and start planning your dream trip.

Is Egypt Safe to Visit in 2024?

Choosing an Egypt Nile Cruise: Itineraries, Essential Tips & Advice

21 Epic Things to Do in Egypt

Ultimate Egypt Itinerary for 7 Days, 10 Days or 2 Weeks

Best time to visit egypt: month by month breakdown.

21 Amazing Things to do in Cairo, Egypt

15 Epic Things to do in Luxor, Egypt

15 Unmissable Things to Do in Alexandria, Egypt

15 Things to Do in Aswan, Egypt (On Your First Visit)

15 top things to do in hurghada, egypt.

9 Best Places to Visit in Egypt (Try These Famous Places in Egypt)

Luxor Hot Air Balloon Ride Over the Valley of the Kings in Egypt

Felucca Boat Trip on the Nile: What Is It Like?

Things to Do in Egypt

Must-See Ancient Sights

Guide to the Pyramids of Giza

Visiting the Nile Delta

Luxor Guide

Valley of the Kings

Visiting Alexandria

Traditional Food to Try

What to Drink in Egypt

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

One Week in Egypt

One Week in Egypt: The Ultimate Itinerary

Kitti Boonnitrod/Getty Images

Home to vast tracts of unspoiled desert, fertile deltas, teeming coral reefs, and the largest city in the Arab world, Egypt is a land of extremes. To see it all in one week is impossible; and yet seven days is enough to begin to understand the age-old magic that has been drawing tourists to this corner of North Africa for hundreds of years. The itinerary detailed below focuses on Cairo and the ancient temples that stretch from Aswan to Luxor along the banks of the River Nile. It’s a great place to start for first-time visitors to Egypt, but also leaves plenty to come back for. Next time, consider heading north to the Nile Delta and cosmopolitan Alexandria ; or spending a whole week scuba diving and enjoying the beaches of the Red Sea coast. 

Day 1: Cairo

LUke1138/Getty Images 

After touching down at Cairo International Airport, make your way to your hotel in the city center. Uber is one of the easiest, cheapest, and safest ways to navigate the city. Favorable exchange rates mean that 5-star hotels are relatively affordable in Cairo, so make the most of this by checking in to the top-rated Kempinski Nile Hotel Garden City . It’s conveniently located within easy reach of the city’s top attractions and spoils with a magnificent rooftop pool that overlooks the waters of the River Nile. Once you’ve checked in, unpacked, and freshened up, it’s time to head out and explore the City of a Thousand Minarets. 

Your first stop should be The Egyptian Museum , home to some 120,000 artifacts excavated from the tombs and temples of the ancient pharaohs including mummies, sarcophagi, and fabulous gold jewelry. The main attraction is the death mask of Tutankhamun, though this and other Tutankhamun relics are due to be relocated to the Grand Egyptian Museum on the Giza plateau when it opens later in 2020. After gazing in wonder upon the treasures of the ancient world, spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Cairo’s fascinating medieval landmarks. These include Al-Azhar Mosque (the city’s first mosque) and the Hanging Church (one of the oldest places of Christian worship in Egypt). 

In the evening, cross the river to Gezira Island to explore the cultural venues and first-class restaurants of contemporary Cairo’s upscale Zamalek neighborhood. Le Pacha 1901 is a vintage boat with no fewer than nine gourmet eateries on board. 

Day 2: Giza and Saqqara

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After breakfast at your hotel, join a private guided tour to the ancient monuments of Giza and Saqqara. Air-conditioned, chauffeured transport is included, as are the services of a professional Egyptologist guide. Your first stop will be the world-famous Pyramids of Giza , located just outside Cairo on the west bank of the River Nile. The necropolis comprises three separate pyramid complexes and the Great Sphinx of Giza; a tableau that you will recognize from every Egyptian travel brochure ever printed. The largest and oldest of the pyramids, the Great Pyramid of Giza, is more than 4,500 years old and is the only one of the Seven Wonders of the World still standing. 

Spend several hours exploring the temple complexes before returning to your vehicle for the hour-long drive to the ancient city of Memphis. What’s left of the former capital of the first nome of Lower Egypt can be explored with a stroll around the Mit Rahina Museum , where a colossal fallen statue of Rameses II provides a stunning example of the detail and accuracy with which the ancient sculptors were able to depict human anatomy. The next stop on the itinerary is Saqqara , the Memphis necropolis. Don’t miss the stepped Pyramid of Djoser, built in the 27th century B.C. As the oldest stone-cut monumental structure in the world, it is believed to have been the blueprint for the smooth-sided pyramids at Giza. 

Lunch at a traditional Egyptian restaurant is included in your tour, which lasts for approximately eight hours. As you’re likely to be tired by the time you return to the hotel, opt for dinner at on-site Ottoman restaurant Osmanly followed by an early night. 

Day 3: Aswan

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Day three begins with an early start and an Uber ride back to the airport in time to catch an EgyptAir flight south to Aswan. The flight takes roughly 1.5 hours, after which you’ll make your way to arrivals where a representative will be waiting to transport you to the Oberoi Philae . This luxury cruise ship will be your home for the next four nights, during which you’ll travel in style along the River Nile to Luxor. Nile cruises are an excellent way to see Egypt’s most iconic sights in a short amount of time, and the Oberoi Philae is a particularly decadent choice of transport with a swimming pool, a spa, and a fine dining restaurant on board. You’ll experience the latter over lunch after settling into your cabin. 

The ship remains moored in Aswan for the rest of the day, giving you the chance to take part in an onshore excursion to the Nubian Museum . This excellent attraction documents the culture of the Nubia region, which extends from Aswan to Khartoum in central Sudan. Clearly labeled displays take you on a journey through 6,500 years of history, with artifacts from the Kingdom of Kush and early Coptic and Islamic places of worship. Perhaps most interesting is the description of the international, UNESCO-led project to relocate the region’s most important temples ahead of the flooding caused by the construction of the Aswan High Dam. Return to the ship for cocktails and dinner overlooking the Nile. 

Day 4: Aswan to Edfu

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After breakfast, the fourth day of your vacation begins with a tour to Aswan High Dam and Philae Temple. Built between 1960 and 1970 to control the annual flooding of the Nile, the dam is an incredible feat of engineering that measures 364 feet in height and 12,562 feet across. You can find out about its construction (and the controversies that surrounded it) at the Aswan High Dam visitor’s pavilion. One of the effects of building the dam was the creation of Lake Nasser and the flooding of a vast area of land including several important ancient temples. Amongst these was Philae Temple , which was relocated block-by-block to higher ground on nearby Agilkia Island. 

During your visit to Philae, your guide will explain its connections to the goddess Isis and how the 30th-dynasty pharaoh Nectanebo I was the first to start work on the temple complex. Today it bears evidence of additions by rulers of the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine periods. Afterwards, return to the ship for an afternoon cruise to Edfu. Lunch will be served en route before making a stop at the Temple of Kom Ombo . The temple dates back to the time of King Ptolemy VI Philometor, who ruled during the 2nd century B.C. It is unique amongst Egyptian temples because of its double design, with two identical sides dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek and falcon god Horus the Elder respectively. 

Day 5: Edfu to Luxor

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Wake up in Edfu, a city famous for the Temple of Horus . The focus of your morning excursion, the temple was built between 237 and 57 B.C. in honor of the son of Isis and Osiris and was later buried by desert sand after pagan religions were abandoned with the arrival of Christianity in Egypt. The hot, dry sand kept the temple immaculately preserved until it was excavated in the mid-19th century, and it remains one of the most intact monuments in all of Egypt. Take note of the blackened ceiling of the hypostyle hall, evidence of early Christian attempts to eradicate its heretic imagery with fire. The symbolism behind the temple’s magnificent reliefs and statuary will be explained by your guide. 

The rest of the afternoon is spent cruising along the river to Luxor. On the way, you will travel through the Esna Lock. Make sure to be on deck to watch as you enter the gates and the water levels are manipulated to allow the ship to continue its journey downriver. Lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner are all enjoyed on board as you watch the passing landscape and the traditional feluccas plying the river as they have done for thousands of years. 

Day 6: Luxor

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Today starts early, and will be one of the highlights of your trip. The morning is dedicated to exploring the West Bank, otherwise known as the necropolis of ancient Thebes. This hugely powerful and influential city served as the capital of Egypt during periods of the Middle and New Kingdoms and the most famous area of its necropolis is the Valley of the Kings . More than 60 royal tombs have been discovered in the valley. Your guided visit includes a tour of two of the most famous: that of Rameses VI and boy king Tutankhamun, whose tomb represents one of the most important archaeological discoveries ever made. You’ll also learn about the artisans responsible for the tombs at nearby workers’ village, Dier el-Medina. 

Later, recharge your batteries while escaping the heat of the day with lunch and a swim back on board the Oberoi Philae. The afternoon is dedicated to exploring the temples of Luxor and Karnak , both located on the east bank of the River Nile. These are amongst the country’s most recognizable sights, so don’t miss the opportunity to snap a photo of yourself standing in between Luxor’s colossal statues of Rameses II, or in Karnak’s Great Hypostyle Hall. Karnak is believed to be the world’s second-largest temple complex after Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, with literally hundreds of kiosks, pylons, and obelisks to explore. To see it lit up at night, enquire about attending the Karnak Sound and Light Show . 

Day 7: Luxor to Cairo

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On your final day, enjoy a last breakfast on the ship before being transferred back to Luxor International Airport for your return flight to Cairo. If being on a cruise ship for the majority of your vacation has left you feeling like you’ve missed out on the authentic Egyptian experience, this is your chance to immerse yourself in local culture. Spend the afternoon at Khan El-Khalili , a meandering souk that dates back to the 14th century and hosts stalls overflowing with artisan crafts and produce. Cobbled streets wind their way between silver shops and spice merchants, fabric stores and leather workshops. Remember to haggle for the best price when purchasing souvenirs, and stop at iconic Fishawi’s café for a cup of mint tea when you need a break. 

If you have one more evening in Cairo before catching your international flight the following day, treat yourself to a stay at spectacular The Nile Ritz-Carlton Cairo . Its elegant Bab El-Sharq restaurant is rated as one of the best Egyptian restaurants in the capital, with a romantic open-air setting, live music, and belly dancing performances. Share a plate of traditional mezze and take a moment to reflect on the wonders you’ve seen throughout the past week. 

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Egypt Tourist Attractions

– 163 amazing places to visit in egypt.

Egypt tourist attractions are like nothing you will find anywhere else in the world. Ancient Egypt, before its ultimate collapse some 1,700 years ago, was the Land of the Pharaohs, and monuments like the legendary Great Pyramids and Sphinx , and the many royal tombs in the Valley of the Kings  stand as a commemoration to all of the Egyptian pharaohs who once ruled this ancient land.

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Explore 163 Amazing Tourist Attractions in Egypt

Top 10 epic places you must visit in egypt, #10 – hurghada, red sea.

Hurghada is a Red Sea resort town and has become an incredibly popular tourist destination, particularly among diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. It also very popular as a family holiday destination, thanks to its many family-friendly resorts and hotels, and an abundance of fun activities, such as scuba diving, wind surfing, sailing, horse riding and deep sea fishing.

Not only is Hurghada the ideal place to relax, but it is also well known for its very vibrant nightlife and its extensive shopping opportunities. In short, Hurghada is a great place to visit in Egypt to relax and unwind for a few days following days of sightseeing tours, and for this reason, it is often included in the itineraries of Nile cruise package tours  – as well as the reason why we have listed it as one of the most important Egypt tourist attractions.

→ Find out more about Hurghada

#9 – Western Sahara Desert

The Western Desert is home to many popular Egypt tourist attractions, most of which are located in or near to the various oases. The best way to view these attractions is by booking an oases package tour or a Sahara desert adventure tour . Most good oases tours will include a visit to all the different oases, and you will often be taken to see the best sites found at each of them.

In addition to the oases and their historical monuments, the Western Desert is also home to several natural Egypt attractions, including the White Desert ; the Black Desert , and the Valley of the Whales , to name just a few.

→ Explore Sahara

→ Explore the Oases

#8 – Karnak Temple Complex

Nearly all Egypt tour packages that focus on Egypt tourist attractions will include a visit to Karnak Temple which is essentially the ruins of an ancient temple city. It is the largest place of worship ever discovered, and was constructed over the course of hundreds of years. According to records, construction first began during the time of the Middle Kingdom, and continued until the reign of the pharaohs ended. The most popular and most impressive structure at the site is the massive Hypostyle Hall which covers an area of 5000 square meters.

Be sure to visit the nearby Luxor Temple while you are in the area, which you can reach by way of the newly discovered Avenue of Sphinxes . There is also a daily sound and light show at Karnak Temple in the evenings, and considering the temple is only 2.5 km away from Luxor, Karnak Temple is definitely one of the most important places to visit in Egypt.

→ Find out more about Karnak

→ Explore Luxor

#7 – The Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum , located right in the heart of Cairo is considered to be one of the top Egypt tourist attractions , and for this reason it is featured not only in most Cairo tour packages , but also in most Egypt tour packages . The museum currently houses around 120,000 Egyptian artifacts, although not all of these are on display. While the ground floor part of the museum is certainly fascinating, many visitors find the first floor to be the highlight of their visit.

As you ascend to the first floor, expect to be greeted by a vast display of artifacts documenting the history of the final two dynasties, along with countless artifacts recovered from the Valley of Kings in Luxor . The first floor is also home to the extremely popular Mummies Room which houses 27 mummies, although again, not all of these are on display.

→ Find out more about the Egyptian Museum

→ Explore other museums in Egypt

#6 – Temple of Philae

Constructed in 690 AD, Philae Temple is widely considered to be the last ancient temple built in true ancient Egyptian style. It is a truly remarkable structure that features prominently in virtually all Egypt tourism packages that include spending some time in and around Aswan . It is also one of the Egypt tourist attractions included in the itineraries of nearly all Nile cruise holidays .

Philae Temple which today is a UNESCO World Heritage Site was relocated in its entirety from its original location on Philae Island, to its present location on Agilkia Island.  Had the temple not been moved, it would have been lost forever to the rising waters of Lake Nasser following the construction of the Aswan High Dam .

According to legend, the temple, along with the island on which it stood, was so sacred that not even fish or birds would approach the island’s shores. Dedicated to the goddess Isis, Philae Temple remains one of the very best Egypt tourist attractions, and visitors are encouraged to visit this ancient marvel both during the day and in the evening to witness the spectacular Philae Temple Sound and Light Show .

→ Find out more about Philae Temple

→ Explore Aswan

#5 – Temple of Sobek and Horus

Also known as Kom Ombo Temple , this is one structure which has always fascinated historians because it was the only temple of its time that was built in honor of two Gods. This in itself presented the architects with a huge challenge. Because the structure was to be dedicated to two different Gods, Sobek and Horus, two identical temples had to be constructed within the framework of a single temple. This was necessary in order to avoid offending either Horus or Sobek.

To achieve this, one half of the temple complex was designed to be a mirror image of the other half. Each side has the same number of halls; rooms; sanctuaries, and even the same number of columns. The precision in terms of construction is something one needs to see in order to believe.

Unfortunately, several earthquakes have resulted in quite a lot of damage over the centuries, and the temple was further destroyed and defaced by the early Coptic Christians when they were attempting to stamp out all forms of paganism. Nonetheless, it is a remarkable site to visit, hence the reason why it’s featured in so many Egypt tour packages .

#4 – Abu Simbel

The Abu Simbel temples are considered to be the second most recognizable Egyptian icon after the Giza pyramids and the Sphinx . These are two massive rock-cut temples constructed during the reign of Ramesses the Great. They were constructed not only to serve as places of worship, but also to serve as lasting monuments of him and his wife, Queen Nefertari.

Like several other points of interest in Egypt, the Abu Simbel temples where swallowed up by the desert and only rediscovered 2,000 years later, which explains why they are so well preserved. The entire structure also had to be relocated to save it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser following the completion of the Aswan High Dam . Today the temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is one site you really don’t want to miss if you are in the area.

→ Explore Lake Nasser

#3 – Tomb of King Tut (Valley of the Kings)

One seasoned historian once wrote that in life, King Tutankhamen was the least esteemed of all the pharaohs who ruled before him, but in death he became the most esteemed of them all. People the world over have been fascinated by Tutankhamen ever since his tomb was discovered by Howard Carter in 1922, and most travelers touring the sites of ancient Egypt long to visit his tomb.

Today, Tutankhamen once again rests in his original sarcophagus inside the tomb, which only makes the site even more appealing to tourists. However, if you are planning on visiting his tomb, keep in mind that the vast amount of treasures recovered from the site are now on display at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo . Additionally, his tomb is not always open to the public, so to avoid any disappointment, it is best to discuss this with your travel agent before you book your tour.

The tomb of King Tutankhamen is located in the Valley of the Kings , home to 63 ancient royal tombs, so even if King Tutankhamen’s t isn’t open when you visit, there will still be plenty to see, bearing in mind that this site is one of the most visited sites in all of Egypt.

→ Find out more about King Tutankhamen

→ Explore the Valley of the Kings

#2 – Nile River Cruises

The Nile River which is the longest river in the world has been Egypt’s lifeline since antiquity, and there is no better way to experience the treasures and delights of Upper Egypt than with a Nile River cruise. Nile cruise vacations have long since been one of the major tourist attractions in Egypt, and as a result, Nile cruises  now come in all shapes and sizes.

The most popular and most affordable cruises tend to be those which are undertaken on the many luxury cruise ships that can be seen sailing between Luxor and Aswan. Other options include refurbished luxury paddle steamers and traditional Dahabiyas. These days some tourists are also making the journey on Feluccas, but trips from Luxor to Aswan on board one of these small sail boats is yet to catch on with mainstream tourists.

Practically all Nile cruise vacations include a tour of Aswan and Luxor, as well as tours of several other historical sites and points of interest along the route. Most people who have been on a Nile River cruise will say that you haven’t experienced Egypt until you have experienced a cruise through the Nile Valley

Egypt Tourist Attractions #1 – The Giza Necropolis

Not only is the Giza Necropolis the most visited of all Egypt tourist attractions, but it is also one of the most visited attractions in the world and by far the most important site to Egypt tourism, attracting thousands of tourists every single day. The Giza pyramids which are conveniently located on the outskirts of Cairo were built over a period of three generations, with the first one being the pyramid of Khufu. At 139 meters, it is the largest pyramid ever built. Alongside this impressive structure, visitors can see the pyramid of Khafre, Khufu’s second reigning son, and also the pyramid of Pharaoh Menkaure. In addition to the Pyramids of Giza, the site is also home to the Great Sphinx and the Valley Temple.

→ Find out more about the Giza Necropolis

→ Explore more ancient Egyptian pyramids

→ Explore ALL Cairo, Egypt Tourist Attractions

→ Egypt Pyramids Tours

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Welcome to Egypt!

The land of ancient wonders and vibrant culture, egypt. breathtaking., before you travel.

Egypt is a place where natural wonders and ancient culture blend harmoniously together to create a truly unique and unforgettable holiday experience. With miles of coastline along the Mediterranean and Red Seas, rolling sand dunes, towering pyramids, and lush oases, Egypt offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and be amazed by one of the world’s oldest civilizations.

From the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Valley of the Kings to the sparkling waters of the Red Sea and the incredible Mount Sinai, Egypt is blessed with some of the most breathtaking natural wonders on earth. History lovers can embark on tours to witness ancient Egyptian ruins, marvel at the intricate hieroglyphics, or explore the treasures of King Tutankhamun’s tomb.

For adventure seekers, Egypt offers a range of exhilarating activities such as diving, snorkeling, and camel trekking in the desert. And for those seeking a more relaxed pace, the white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea offer the perfect spot to soak up the sun and unwind.

But Egypt is more than just a natural and historical paradise – it’s a country rich with culture and tradition. From the bustling streets of Cairo to the serene beauty of Aswan, Egypt offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in ancient Egyptian culture, Coptic traditions, and Islamic architecture. From traditional music and dance to artisan crafts and flavorful cuisine, Egypt offers a glimpse into a vibrant and colorful way of life.

Egypt is the ideal destination for anyone seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience that awakens the senses and creates lasting memories. Whether you are an adventurer, a history buff, or a culture enthusiast, Egypt has a little something for everyone. With warm and friendly locals always ready to welcome visitors with open arms, all that’s left to do is pack a bag and embark on an unforgettable journey to this ancient wonderland.

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Egyptetourism.com is a comprehensive tourism portal and advisor for Egypt, designed to provide travelers with all the information they need to plan a perfect trip to the country. The website offers a wealth of information on Egypt’s culture, history, attractions, and activities, as well as practical tips on visa requirements, transportation, and accommodations. Egyptetourism.com is dedicated to promoting tourism in Egyptand showcasing the best the country has to offer. With expert advice and insider tips, Egyptetourism.com is the ultimate guide for anyone planning to visit Egypt.

Disclaimer: Egyptetourism.com is an independent travel advisor and is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency or organization. We provide travel assistance services to individuals who are planning to travel to Egyptetourism.com. Our services are designed to help travelers navigate the complex travel requirements and procedures, and our team of experienced professionals provides personalized support to ensure that travelers have a seamless and hassle-free travel experience. Please note that Egyptetourism.com is not a substitute for official government resources or processes, and we strongly advise travelers to refer to the relevant government websites and resources for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

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Best egypt travel tips for first time visitors: everything to know before you go.

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If you’re looking for tips for traveling to Egypt, you’re in the right place! This post will provide you with everything you need to know about visiting Egypt for the first time including: travel misconceptions, what to expect in Egypt, how to deal with culture shock, health and safety and what to pack. 

Even the most seasoned traveler is not immune to misconceptions and stereotypes. We all have a certain idea about what a country will be like before hitting the “book now” button. Some of our ideas come from photos or other travelers, but the majority are born from the media…and they aren’t always pretty.

Egypt is one such country. Its tourism is suffering, thanks to frequent negative headlines about safety. I’m not one listen to sensationalist headlines, so I decided to go see Egypt for myself and document my experience.

Although I quickly realized that the reality of traveling in Egypt is far different than what the media claims, I was curious to see what other travelers thought about Egypt, both before and after visiting.

I surveyed fellow travelers who have visited the land of mummies and camels in the last six years and asked them two questions: What were some of your misconceptions of Egypt?  How have those changed now that you’ve visited? And more importantly, what Egypt tips for first timers would you like to share?

Before traveling to Egypt, it’s important to know that it can be exhilarating, frustrating, and enriching – especially for a first timer. You will experience culture shock. I know I did, and my family is part Egyptian! Keep reading to learn the best Egypt travel tips for the first time visitor, directly from travelers who have visited recently!

Table of Contents

Why visit Egypt

Temples, pharaohs, hieroglyphics, and pyramids. Unlike many countries, Egypt doesn’t need an introduction. The stories of raided tombs and well-preserved mummies make this country the top of pretty much everyone’s bucket list and with good reason. From the bustling streets of Cairo to the glimmering beaches of the Red Sea, Egypt is guaranteed to simultaneously delight, shock, and enchant. Egypt’s capital alone has plenty of spectacular things to do and see .

How the media has affected tourism: Egypt expectation vs reality

• “I didn’t think it would affect tourism so much (hotels are empty, almost no people at the historical sights of Karnak Temple or the Valley of the Kings).” –Sharon, Travel Eat Enjoy Repeat
• “It was sad to hear stories from the locals about the damage their tourism industry has suffered, but it definitely gave me the motivation to make sure I was spreading my word of positivity as a tourist in Egypt.” –Travis, Traveler
• “I was surprised to see how poorly their travel industry is doing. I thought everyone wanted to go see the Pyramids.” –Olga, Traveler
• “I expected Egypt to be quite an expensive travel option, but it’s actually quite affordable.” –Louise, Traveler

The reality:

Unfortunately, the media has painted a dark picture of travel in Egypt, and its tourism is suffering accordingly. Tourist sites are virtually empty compared to their pre-revolution crowds. Thanks to the current exchange rate and low tourism numbers, traveling to Egypt has become much more affordable, and getting photos without people in them is a given.

I am aware that there have been several incidents in Egypt over the last few years, and of course, safety is never guaranteed, anywhere. However, the incidents in Egypt have been few and far between and only a couple of them have actually targeted tourists. Crimes happen anywhere and everywhere, and as it says on the UK Government foreign travel website “most visits to Egypt are trouble-free.”

I myself have visited Egypt annually since 2017 and have never had any issues. The biggest thing you have to worry about is typical tourism scams!

Is it safe to travel to Egypt as a tourist?

• “I was worried I’d be concerned for my safety, but I never felt unsafe on my group tour .” –Louise, Traveler
• “The security throughout the country and at all the ‘touristy’ locations was phenomenal. I always felt safe, even walking around the streets alone at night.” –Travis, Traveler
• “When I thought about traveling, the first thing I worried about was whether I was going to be able to do so safely. Although I did get a bit of attention for being a female Caucasian traveler, I wasn’t harassed due to my gender or skin color. I never felt unsafe in Egypt. In fact, the Egyptians took my safety very seriously.” –Josie, Traveler
• “I felt uncomfortable walking down the street alone as a woman. Part of it is that I stood out quite clearly with blonde hair and blue eyes, but another part is just the culture and not being totally aware before arriving.” –Alex, The Wayfaring Voyager
• “Traveling to Luxor and being in Luxor, there is much more security than 10 years ago. We never felt unsafe; on the contrary, people were extremely friendly.” –Sharon, Travel Eat Enjoy Repeat

Yes, Egypt is safe for safe for tourists. Having visited Egypt several times in my life (both before and after the Arab Spring), I must admit that I never felt unsafe in Egypt. As mentioned in the previous section, most visits are trouble-free and visitors should be avoiding parts of The Sinai Peninsula, The Western Desert, and Egyptian border areas / military zones. Most travelers don’t visit these areas anyway, so I wouldn’t be worried.

Solo female travel in Egypt

Unfortunately, traveling as a solo female in Egypt does garner a lot of verbal attention from men, especially  toward women who appear foreign. While this unwanted attention is annoying, it’s typically harmless. I was surprised to find that traveling with a group helped to eliminate catcalling almost entirely, even when our guide wasn’t around. My tip for first-time travelers to Egypt (especially women): dress conservatively and brace yourself for cat-calling. (Note: I don’t condone this behavior whatsoever but I do think it’s important to be transparent about what it’s like for visiting women). In my experience, booking a guided tour greatly reduced the catcalling issue.  Psst: Check out my Egypt packing list for tips on what to wear in Egypt!

Should I book a tour to Egypt?

First of all, let me just say that yes, Egypt is safe and can be traveled to independently. I have visited multiple times and have traveled in Egypt independently, with family and on tours. However. Egypt is chaotic and can be difficult to navigate, especially if you don’t speak the language. I’m a big fan of independent travel and only book tours in countries where it’s absolutely necessary. Egypt is one of those countries.

If it’s your first time visiting and you’d prefer not to worry about all these tips and the hassle of transporting yourself from place to place, I highly recommend booking a tour. Most are pretty affordable and having your peace of mind and actually enjoying your trip is seriously priceless. I did Intrepid Travel’s Egypt Adventure tour with my favorite travel company ever. Click here to read a thorough review of the experience.

P.S. If you’re really against group tours, I strongly recommend booking a tour guide. Not only will he/she provide you with all the fascinating historical information about the sites you’re visiting, but he/she will also help you navigate the nuances of the culture and protect you from touts. Trust me, having a guide makes the experience much more pleasant.

How to get to Egypt

Egypt has several international airports but the most popular one to fly to is Cairo International Airport, especially if you’re coming from North America (like me). If you’re coming from Europe, it’s worth checking out prices to Alexandria, Sharm-el-Sheikh, or Hurghada Airports.

That being said, if you plan on visiting the Pyramids and other historical sites, I recommend flying into Cairo. It’s almost always the cheapest option from North America and the other airports (with the exception of Alexandria) are a lot further from the main sites. Compare flight prices on SkyScanner .

Visas in Egypt

Americans need to get a visa for Egypt, which can be done either on or before arrival. If you prefer a visa on arrival, it costs USD $25 in cash for a 30 day visa. Bring exact change in USD or Egyptian pounds because no other currency is accepted. You’ll need a passport that’s valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned entry date.

A note about the airport:  The Cairo Airport is incredibly slow and welcomes every tourist with Egyptian time, starting at the line to get a visa on arrival. Save yourself the hassle and get an Egypt eVisa ahead instead!

How to get to Downtown Cairo from the airport

Here’s one thing to know before traveling to Egypt: if you won’t have data on your phone to call an Uber, I recommend booking an airport transfer  ahead of time if you aren’t staying in a hotel that provides a shuttle. Taxis are a bit of a free for all (especially at the airport) and the last thing you want to do is to start your trip feeling like you got ripped off.

Transportation in Egypt: how to get around

Within cairo: uber or metro.

There’s plenty of public transportation in Egypt, but it can be confusing for visitors. I have yet to understand the bus and microbus system after several visits. If you’re feeling adventurous or are on a budget, the metro is safe, easy to understand, and inexpensive. There’s even a separate car for women and children, which is kind of nice. Tourists rarely take the metro, though, so be prepared for some surprised looks. Note that the metro isn’t super extensive, so it doesn’t go everywhere. However, I’ve used it a few times and the experiences have been fine.

To be honest, most travelers and locals rely heavily on Uber or Careem (the Arab version of Uber). It’s inexpensive, always available, safe, and hassle-free. I suggest taking a screenshot of the Arabic – English numbers because the license plates are in Arabic.  I don’t recommend taxis unless you’re confident enough to haggle about the price. Although I’ve been to Egypt around 10 times, I rarely take taxis myself.

Traveling outside of Cairo

If you’re traveling outside of Cairo to other major cities, you can fly or take a train or bus.

• By Flight:  There are quite a few airports in Egypt, so if you’d prefer to get somewhere quickly, you can always book a (usually inexpensive) domestic flight to some of your destinations. Alexandria, Luxor, Sharm el Sheikh, and Hurghada all have airports and most tourist destinations are easily accessible from there.
• By Train: Ramses station in Downtown Cairo is the main train station (there’s a large station in Giza as well) and has routes to many popular destinations including Alexandria, Luxor, and Aswan. The first-class section of the train is pretty comfortable, but you should definitely book ahead of time. I’ve never purchased tickets online myself (only at the actual station), but you can do so if you register on the Egyptian Railways website . Once you get a confirmation email, you can book your train. P.S. Bring a warm sweater – the train is always so cold .
• By bus: If you’re headed to the Red Sea or Sinai, check out Go Bus for routes. These long-distances buses are incredibly comfortable and amenities depend on which class of ticket you purchase but can include Wi-Fi, meals, a seat TV screen, and more. The good news is that you can buy the tickets online, which is way more convenient than the train.

Traffic and crossing the road

Traffic in Egypt is bananas, particularly in Cairo. This surprised me the first time I visited – I couldn’t understand how all these cars could be on the road at once and why nobody was using designated lanes. Anyway, this chaos makes crossing the street a bit of a terrifying experience at first. But let me clue you in on a little secret: cross the street confidently. Look like you belong. Obviously, check both ways before you cross, but march across like you own the road. Alternatively, follow a local as they cross. You’ll get the hang of it quickly.

The best time to visit Egypt

November – March:  This is the best time to visit for cooler weather and generally empty sites (with the exception of December – early January because of school holidays). Winter is mild in Egypt but Alexandria (and sometimes Cairo) does see quite a bit of rain during this period.

April – May / September – October:  These are the best months to visit Egypt, especially if you’re interested in traveling both in the North and the South. The weather is warmer but not scorching, so it’s pleasant enough to both hike and hit the beaches.

June – August:  If you don’t mind the heat, summer in Egypt is perfect for all-day beach and pool lounging. This is peak tourism season at the Red Sea. Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan have fewer tourists due to temperatures that reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Language in Egypt

The official language of Egypt is Arabic, spoken with an Egyptian dialect. In general, most people (especially at tourist sites) can speak enough English for you to get by. However, this Arabic phrasebook is nice to have, especially if you decide to travel independently, especially if you’re not at tourist sites. Google Translate works in a pinch, but it translates to Modern Standard Arabic, not Egyptian Arabic, which sounds really different.

Currency in Egypt

Egypt uses the Egyptian Pound, and at the time of updating this post (November 2019), the rate was about USD $1 to 16 EGP which makes Egypt incredibly budget-friendly. Credit cards are accepted at hotels and nicer restaurants, but it’s generally better to carry cash. There are plenty of ATM machines and currency exchanges all over the city.

Exchanging money in Egypt

I find that the best way to exchange money in Egypt is to bring USD and change it at one of many money exchanges in Cairo (most are in Downtown). Although some of the more expensive restaurants accept credit cards, cash is still king in Egypt. You can also withdraw money from ATMs (USD $250 max per day) if you don’t want to carry a bunch of cash with you.

The tipping culture in Egypt

This is one of the most important things to know before traveling to Egypt for the first time because it comes a surprise to many visitors. Tipping, known as “baksheesh” is a big part of the culture in Egypt. You tip for pretty much anything and everything – anyone from the porter that helps you with your bags to someone who takes your photo to the bathroom attendant. Unfortunately, more often than not, nothing in Egypt is free, particularly at tourist sites.

Note: If you take a photo of someone or something at a site, be prepared to pay a small amount. Depending on the service, people usually tip between 1 – 10 pounds, depending on the situation. Yes, it’s annoying but it’s best to know ahead of time. Just be sure to save those smaller bills whenever you can – they’re hard to come by!

Photography and camera fees 

Most tourist spots have a “camera fee” in addition to an entry fee for those that want to take photos at certain tourist sites. In terms of street photography and stuff, Egypt is pretty weird about photography and filming in general. You aren’t allowed to photograph some buildings inexplicably so sometimes you’ll get chastised by a police officer for doing so (even though there aren’t signs). It’s usually not the end of the world if you don’t know but just be prepared for a bit of push-back when it comes to filming and photography overall. If you take photos of people, be sure to ask permission first and pay a tip as well.

Dealing with vendors and touts in Egypt

• “In Egypt, everything is up for barter and nothing is free. Knowing some words in Arabic is handy (no and thank you in particular), especially when navigating the bazaars.“ –Louise, Traveler
• “If you are more introverted, you will have a difficult time with the many pushy street vendors that congregate in the tourist locations.” –Sean, Traveler
• “I didn’t know exactly what to expect when traveling to Egypt, but I was definitely surprised by the attempts to fool me into buying things. Egypt stole my heart in a number of ways as a history-lover, but it was much more challenging than I had expected to get around.” –Alex, The Wayfaring Voyager
• “What we found was anything but what we had been preconditioned to believe! Arriving in the hustle and bustle of Cairo, the atmosphere was undeniably electric.” –Sarah, Exploring Kiwis

Like many countries, Egypt has its fair share of street vendors pushing you to purchase souvenirs, especially in the big cities and at tourist sites. Negotiating and tipping are a big part of the culture, which often comes as a bit of a shock to first time visitors to Egypt. The rules of thumb are 1) always ask for prices, 2) haggle, haggle, haggle, 3) don’t be afraid to say no. If you love haggling at markets, Egypt is the place to be. If not, usually a firm but polite “lah shokran” (no thank you) wards off even the pushiest of vendors. And if you do want to shop while there, check out this list of things to buy in Egypt .

Visiting the Pyramids of Giza

“When visiting the Great Pyramids of Giza, I did not expect to see a Pizza Hut and KFC. Many locals have told me the Pizza Hut has one of the best views for the nightly sound and light show. For some reason, I expect the pyramids to be far outside of the city but instead they are literally in Cairo.” –Hannah, Getting Stamped

This is something I often hear from first-time visitors to Egypt and I remember thinking the same when I visited! Surprise: The Giza Pyramids are not in a vast, empty desert in the middle of nowhere. Rather, they’re a quick drive from the city. All the photos you see are taken from the back of the Pyramids. P.S. visiting the Pyramids is quite the unique experience and needs a lot of tips on its own. I’ve written a post on everything you need to know about visiting the Pyramids here . (It includes a lot of great Cairo travel tips too). 

What to pack and what to wear for a trip to Egypt

Many people ask me what they need to pack for Egypt so I wrote an entire Egypt packing list . I highly recommend reading it as I included do’s and don’ts for clothing and some essential items you probably won’t even think about (like toilet paper!). I’m going to include a few noteworthy items in this post, but you’ll definitely want to check out the complete list as well.

• Comfortable shoes: It’s really tempting to wear open-toed shoes in Egypt (I do sometimes, but be prepared for dirty feet!) but the best option to deal with the sand, dirt, and questionable roads is comfortable tennis shoes. My favorite travel sneakers ever are Allbirds, these  awesome wool sneakers that don’t make your feet sweat (even if you wear them without socks). They’re cute, they’re functional, and they’re comfy AF.
• Hand Sanitizer: Hand sanitizer is useful for general…er, sanitizing. Especially if a bathroom isn’t handy or it doesn’t have soap (learned from personal experience, sigh).
• Toilet paper: Toilet paper isn’t always a thing in Egypt, because people use bidets to keep their booties clean. I never understood why there isn’t toilet paper to dry off, but now I know to bring my own and I’m passing that wisdom on to you. You can always buy toilet paper while there or take some from your hotel, but I like to keep some of these  small toilet paper rolls  in my purse and not worry about it.
• Filtered water bottle:  I already wrote why you need a filtered water bottle in the food safety section, so I won’t re-hash the reasons. This Grayl bottle is the easiest and best water bottle to keep the germs away and to avoid contributing to single-use plastic waste.
• Travel insurance:  Yes, you need travel insurance for if things (hopefully don’t but often do) go wrong. I’ve been sick, needed stitches, crashed a rental car, had cash stolen and have dealt with luggage delays. Let’s just say I’ve learned my lesson about travel insurance the hard way. My go-to insurance is  World Nomads  cause they’re awesome. Be sure to check out the different plan options to pick one that’s right for you!
• Scarf:  Having a  large scarf  on hand is super helpful for impromptu mosque visits or to protect your skin when the sun is feeling just a little too strong. Plus, it’s a cute accessory for an outfit as well!

Egyptian cuisine: what to eat and how to avoid getting sick

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sally • Foodie Travel Blogger (@passportandplates)

“I expected breakfast to resemble something like home (Australia), but it doesn’t. Think lots of carbs, jam, feta style cheese, and beans. Eating gluten-free was a challenge.” –Louise, Traveler

Food in Egypt

Egyptian food is delicious and varied, although it’s definitely on the heavier side and includes a fair amount of carbs. There are a few touristy restaurants that aren’t great, but luckily for you, I wrote out an entire Egyptian Food Guide . It’ll help you get an idea of what Egyptian food is like and to discover what you need to eat (plus where to eat it) while visiting Egypt for the first time! If you’d like a guide to help you navigate the Egyptian food scene, consider taking this awesome food tour !

It’s worth noting that depending on your dietary restrictions, you may have a hard time eating in Egypt. In particular, one of my group tour members was allergic to gluten and he had a difficult time partaking in Egypt’s carb-heavy cuisine. If that’s the case for you, a guide will be extra-helpful to help translate these restrictions.

Additionally, you may experience a bit of an upset stomach and/or traveler’s diarrhea while you’re in Egypt. That’s totally normal but just take some extra precautions like: not eating raw/unwashed fruits and vegetables, only drinking filtered/bottled water, being cautious with street food. Many people travel with Imodium , every traveler’s favorite treatment for travel diarrhea. My doctor tells me that you shouldn’t stop whatever is making you sick from leaving your system. However, I totally get that there are times where “better out than in” just doesn’t work. So bring Imodium if you’d like, but use it only when you need to.

Staying hydrated and drinking water in Egypt

Be sure to stay extra hydrated while you’re in Egypt as well because it’s hot most of the time. I always bring a water bottle with me when I travel because single-use plastic sucks for the planet and buying lots of bottled water is expensive and inconvenient. You can’t drink tap water in Egypt but you can drink filtered, purified water. I bring along a Steripen , a UV water purifier that gets rid of 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, and protozoa and use it in combination with my  CamelBak Insulated Water Bottle . This bottle is particularly awesome because it holds 20 oz and keeps water cold, which you’ll want in a hot country like Egypt. If you’d rather purchase an all-in-one solution,  Grayl’s water filtering bottle  is a great alternative so you can fill directly from the tap and drink almost immediately. I oftentimes bring  rehydration salts along just in case I’m having stomach issues and can’t stay hydrated. This is one of my top travel tips for Egypt – hydration solves a lot of potential health problems!

Egypt’s natural landscapes: how to visit

“Egypt is well known for its ancient wonders, but I would argue that the natural side of Egypt is more worth a traveler’s time. Being in the White and Black Deserts as well as along the Nile were a good taste of what Egypt has to offer in terms of natural beauty, and should not be missed in the itinerary of any worldly traveler.” –Sean, Traveler

I agree wholeheartedly with Sean’s statement. Egypt is more than its ancient temples. Its varying landscapes make it an outdoor lover’s dream! Learn more: check out my guide to camping in the White and Black Deserts : an activity not to be missed when visiting Egypt! Also consider Fayoum, Wadi-el-Hitan, or Siwa. Check out more information here .

What’s “Egyptian Time?” 

“Trains run on Egyptian time, which basically means they’ll leave and arrive whenever they feel like. Definitely take that into account when planning your trip.” –Olga, Traveler

Travel tip: If you’re one of those people that plan an hourly schedule when you travel, throw your plan away and start again. Most things run on Egyptian time, and there’s no point in getting worked up by long lines or transportation delays.

Bonus Egypt travel tip: Egyptian hospitality

• “I thought Egyptians may not be hospitable to westerners, but they are actually really welcoming.” –Louise, Traveler
• “Almost everyone was friendly and welcoming, which I didn’t expect.” –Olga, Traveler
• “As a solo traveler, I was nervous but was completely overwhelmed by the generosity and kindness of the Egyptian people.” –Travis, Traveler
• “The people were very kind. All in all, Egypt was amazing.” –Josie, Traveler

I’m not surprised by the number of people who think Egypt is hostile to foreigners before visiting for the first time, thanks to the mainstream media . Egyptian hospitality may not be making headlines, but it certainly should be. When I went on my group tour , we were welcomed by vendors and locals alike, everywhere we went. Everyone wanted to know where we were from and excitedly took selfies with our group. They made sure to remind us that we (and our friends) are welcome in Egypt.

Overall: Egypt will impress you

• “Egypt was a pleasant surprise and a place that I would encourage everyone to visit – to be that close to ancient human history is absolutely humbling. Don’t let other people put you off – the world is a good place!” –Sarah, Exploring Kiwis
• “I loved discovering North Africa and I am inspired to travel to more Arab countries. Morocco, Jordan and Lebanon are in the cards.” –Louise, Traveler
• “All in all, Egypt was amazing! It was safe, fun and I learned so much historically and culturally.“ –Josie, Traveler
• “My experience gave me the motivation to make sure I was spreading my word of positivity as a tourist in Egypt. It’s a country of great depths and diversity that I will most definitely visit again soon.” –Travis, Traveler

There you have it: things to know when traveling to Egypt. You are now armed with the best Egypt travel tips for visiting Egypt for the first time. I highly recommend booking a group tour to Egypt as it is not an easy country to navigate independently. I personally did this combined Egypt/Jordan tour , but you can also book the Egypt only portion here . So what are you waiting for? Travel to Egypt and see what this historically-rich country has to offer!

More Egypt Resources

• 30+ Awesome Things to Do in Cairo, Egypt: The Ultimate Cairo Travel Guide
• What to Pack for Egypt: The Ultimate Egypt Packing List
• 2 Days in Luxor Itinerary: The Best Things to Do, See, and Eat in Luxor
• 2 Days in Aswan Itinerary: Best Things to Do in Aswan, Egypt
• Egypt Travel Guide
• Pharaohs and Feluccas: Exploring Egypt with Intrepid Travel
• Camping in the White Desert, Egypt: A First Timer’s Guide
• Traditional Egyptian Food Guide: 20 Must Eat Foods in Cairo, Egypt
• Egypt Travel Tips for the First Time Visitor: Expectations vs Reality
• Bellies En-Route Downtown Cairo Food Tour: The Best Thing to Do in Cairo for Foodies
• Visiting the Pyramids of Giza, Egypt: Everything to Know Before You Go
• Where to Stay in Cairo, Egypt: The Best Hotels in Cairo for Every Budget

Tell me: have you ever visited Egypt? What was the most surprising part of the country and what did you wish you knew before you went? 

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37 thoughts on “ Best Egypt Travel Tips for First Time Visitors: Everything to Know Before You Go ”

I definitely have pre-conceived notions about Egypt. Some are from the press, but many are just based on the photos I’ve seen — for instance, I never knew that about the Great Pyramids of Giza! Also, I’m not sure if it makes me laugh or sort of sad that one of the best views of the show is in the Pizza Hut parking lot. I guess those chains really are everywhere. I do have safety concerns, but reading the different reports, particularly about the group tours was really enlightening. Thanks for sharing!

Totally! It’s kind of sad but also hilarious – I haven’t even checked out the show from there before haha so I’ll definitely have to next time I go. I honestly find that traveling in a group is totally safe and that the media just freaks people out. You should reconsider and visit soon 🙂

Thanks for shedding a light on the reality of travel to Egypt – it’s sad that media headlines can have such an effect on the livelihoods of those who rely on the tourism industry. I’m like the blogger you interviewed who is surprised that it has affected tourism so much – I also thought everyone wanted to see the pyramids!

It’s sad indeed! And there are so many places that are affected by it too. And yeah, same! Apparently people don’t want to see the Pyramids that badly haha.

It is great to see your post that paints a candid and real picture of Egypt. It is unfortunate that the media presents pictures that are far removed from reality. A recent visit to Africa completely changed my perception fed by the media.

Thank you! I try to include both the good and the bad but I can definitely say that the media’s portrayal of Egypt is very inaccurate. I’m glad you were recently able to visit the continent and see for yourself!

Love this Sally! I wish more articles were written about the realities of traveling to certain places. I have been wanting to visit Egypt for about 10 years and my husband keeps saying no that he feels it is unsafe. But as a solo female traveler – I don’t feel unsafe at all. I have been around the globe alone and feel the media is wrong about a lot of places. Maybe I can just sneak out and go 😉

Thanks Nicki! I honestly don’t every feel unsafe there. There is a bit of a catcalling problem towards women which is seriously annoying but I never felt concerned for my safety. The media portrays so many places inaccurately and it’s SUCH a shame. You should definitely go for a visit 🙂

I love this article and how you are debunking the fear mongering myths from the media. It is so sad how much that has affected tourism and the local economy. We haven’t been to Egypt but have always wanted to go. I have heard others say its unsafe but really haven’t thought twice about their comments since we weren’t planning a trip soon. Thanks so much for your insight and all the others you’ve collected who have actually been there! I will be passing this along if Egypt comes up in conversation again!

Thanks so much! I tried to be as accurate in portraying both the good and the bad, but the reality is that the media blows everything out of proportion. I jut went this year and plan on going back so I definitely recommend checking it out for yourself sometime 🙂

Pizza Hut has one of the best views in Giza?? Whoa, I would have never thought of it. 🙂 I really hope to visit Egypt soon. My husband visited the Giza and Aswan a few years back and has some amazing stories to share. It’s good to read so many people’s thoughts and suggestions here.

LOL hilarious isn’t it? I highly recommend a visit sometime! It’s a pretty amazing place.

What a great post setup. Seriously, it’s genius! Plus, thank you for setting a really great perspective on Egypt. I had been less-apt to visit because of alerts and such. I’m really loving hearing that it feels safe! I wasn’t planning on going anytime soon, but it’s definitely higher on my radar to maybe check out after Morocco. I’m definitely going to share this!

Thanks so much, Paige! I know that the media makes it seem like a dangerous country, but the reality is that it’s totally fine to visit. I definitely recommend visiting with a group or having a guide because of the language barrier and stuff but it’s seriously an amazing place to visit! I hope you end up going!

This was such a great read! It’s so sad that Egypt’s tourism industry is suffering. Such a beautiful place to visit. I’ve always thought Egypt would be super interesting and unique to explore. I hope I make it there one day, and I hope your post helps to bring a wave of people to Egypt!

It makes me so sad :(. I hope you get a chance to go sometime soon and I hope more people consider visiting Egypt!

I love this article! I see so much how media has portrayed the country and how people will often condemn you if you show interest in visiting, but you are trying to change the opinions and I love it! You have some super helpful tips in here and the photos are amazing

Thanks so much! I hope that people can see that Egypt isn’t the big scary place the media makes it seem 🙂

Thank you for all the practical tips and advice! Egypt has always been so high up on my bucket list but was hesitant because of the travel alerts and news. I’m hoping that 2018 is THE year to make that trip happen, maybe I’ll even make it to Pizza Hut by the pyramids!

DO IT! It’s the most beautiful and amazing place. It has its challenges forsure but it’s totally worth a visit. I hope you get a chance to visit next year!

Really good advice article. Egypt has been on my to-go list since forever, but you’re right, with all the negative media, I tend to think it’s more dangerous. So your article and research gives me more courage for sure.

Thank you! I’m glad it helped and I seriously hope you get a chance to visit soon 🙂

I have always wanted to travel to Egypt and love learning about the history there. Thank you for the great guide!!

You’re welcome! I hope you get a chance to visit soon 🙂

Holy Cow! It sounds like you had an amazing adventure! Did you get to meet Cleopatra?

Haha I got to see some artifacts at the Egyptian Museum! That counts, right?

Wow! What a great blog! I love the analytical approach you have made. What others have said, then what you think about the topic. We really want to go, but as you say, it’s easy to get put off by the unfavourable media coverage of it. You have obviously travelled extensively, so this is bookmarked for future research! Thanks 🙂

Thank you! I’ve travelled to Egypt several times so I can honestly say it’s a great place to visit, despite what the media says. I hope you get a chance to go sometime soon 🙂

The blog was amazing and informative. I strongly agree that you should book your tour to Egypt with a local tour operator.

Thank you, glad you enjoyed it!

Very informative article, thanks for that! Also we have been in Egypt for over two months and experienced a lot.

Glad to hear you enjoyed your time!

What a great blog! This is such an amazing post. Thank you for sharing with us and glad to you for advice. I have visited with my family to spend our vacation with the help of Ask-Aladdin and we enjoyed our trip with safe. Egypt is the best ancient place for tourist and there are very things to learn also. This is mainly famous for Pyramids of Giza, the Nile, and Cairo. Cairo is the capital of Egypt and such a wonderful place. Keep blogging like this.

Thanks Andrew! Glad to hear you enjoyed your trip to Egypt :). It’s a great country.

Great to read about your Intrepid trip to Egypt. i’m doing the same trip over Christmas and I can’t wait!

Oh NICE! I’m so excited for you – you’re going to love it 🙂

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Privacy Overview

The Egyptian Tourism Authority (ETA) was established in 1981—by Presidential Decree No. 134—as a regulatory body affiliated with the Ministry of Tourism. ETA’s mission is to boost international tourism by promoting Egypt’s rich history and civilization and highlighting the country’s abundance of diverse tourist attractions. Part of ETA’s mandate is to also address any obstacles that may stand in the way of growth in Egypt’s tourism sector. It also aims to promote domestic tourism, raise tourism awareness throughout the country, and strengthen the connection between Egyptians and their heritage.

ETA works to achieve its objectives by:

• • Highlighting the diversity and variety of Egypt’s tourist attractions and destinations
• • Developing marketing strategies and programs to promote international and domestic tourism
• • Providing technical and marketing support in coordination with relevant entities for the promotion of tourism

ETA also organizes and sponsors tourism, sports, social, cultural, entertainment, and educational events held at tourist attractions, archaeological sites, and museums across Egypt. These activities shed light on Egypt’s diversity of experiences and highlight the country’s competitive edge as a destination for international travelers.

The ETA Board of Directors is chaired by the Minister of Tourism. Its members include the ETA’s CEO and representatives from relevant entities, such as the Chairman of the Egyptian Tourism Federation (ETF), the Egyptian Travel Agents Association, and the Egyptian Hotel Association; the Chairman of the Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority; the Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities; the Director General of the Grand Egyptian Museum; and four additional tourism sector experts. The ETA Board of Directors is responsible for setting ETA’s general policies and making the necessary decisions to help achieve its goals and objectives.

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10 eye-catching travel brochure designs that inspire and excite, unlock your dream vacation: discover the power of travel brochures, boost your business with 10 custom travel poster designs, 15 ingenious travel flyer ideas that will skyrocket your bookings, 10 creative menu ideas to transport diners on a global taste adventure, 10 jet-setting designs for custom travel business cards, 10 clever ways to make your travel table tent stand out, 10 inspiring travel pocket folder templates for small travel agencies.

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10 Reasons to Visit Egypt

Published on: August 2nd, 2023

Last modified: March 8th, 2024

Some destinations capture the imagination of travellers the world over – and Egypt is certainly among them. Home to one of the oldest civilisations on earth, this North African country has a culture all of its own.

Explorers flock to Cairo and Luxor for their rich history, and to the Nile and Sahara for their natural allure. But there’s far more to this place than what you might see on a postcard. From temples and tombs to sand dunes and snorkelling, here are the top 10 reasons to visit Egypt.

Why Visit Egypt?

Fascinating history, legendary landmarks and stunning landscapes are some of the most obvious reasons to visit Egypt. But it’s also overflowing with hidden gems, gorgeous beaches, delicious cuisine and opportunities for adventure. And the only way to truly understand this iconic destination is to dive right in and explore it yourself.

1. Incredible Ancient History

Egypt’s top claim to fame is undoubtedly its past; this is where one of the world’s most impressive ancient civilisations flourished. Its remnants are everywhere you look, from the emblematic Pyramids of Giza to the endless archaeological sites spread across the country.

Here you can visit royal tombs in the Valley of the Kings – or soar over them at dawn on a hot air balloon tour – and have breakfast overlooking the Great Pyramid. Cairo is the ideal home base for history lovers, within easy reach of the most famous sites.

2. Captivating Temples

Among all of Egypt’s breathtaking architecture, its many temples deserve special mention. Stepping into one of these sacred buildings gives you a glimpse into how spirituality and mythology intersected with daily life in ancient Egypt.

The temples of Luxor and Karnak are essential stops; you can reach them via a scenic Nile cruise, a felucca excursion or a trip to the city of Luxor. The temples of Edfu and Dendera are equally enthralling, and the complex of Abu Simbel is well worth a day trip from Aswan .

3. Delicious Cuisine

Egyptian cuisine is unlike any other, echoing aspects of other culinary traditions while maintaining distinctive flavours. It’s centred on vegetables, legumes and fruit, as well as seafood in the coastal areas. You’ll also find delicious bread, cheese and meat dishes.

In Cairo you can take a traditional food tour to sample local specialities like koshari (pasta with chickpeas and lentils), ta’ameya (Egypt’s version of falafel) and om ali (similar to bread pudding). Or enjoy a luxurious private dinner in the rose garden of the Winter Palace Luxor .

4. Modern Cities & Culture

Although it’s best known for its illustrious past, modern-day Egypt is also worth exploring. The old and new parts of Cairo strike a fascinating balance, juxtaposing thousands of years of history with a bustling modern metropolis.

In Alexandria you can learn about Egypt’s recent past from journalists and political experts. From its burgeoning economy to its role in the Arab Spring, there’s much more to Egypt than what you’ll find in history books.

5. Thrilling Desert Adventures

The Western Desert is one of Egypt’s defining features. Part of the Sahara, it covers around two-thirds of the country. This vast landscape is dotted with oases, olive groves and even waterfalls – all of which can be discovered on exciting expeditions into the desert. 

Thrill-seekers can venture to Wadi Al-Hitan to see ancient whale fossils, or the dreamy Siwa Oasis with its turquoise lakes, swaying palms and the scenic village of Shali. The best time to visit is outside the summer months (July and August), when temperatures often exceed 40ºC (104° F).

6. Mesmerising Museums

It’s only logical that a country with this much history is chock-full of amazing museums. Highlights include the extensive Egyptian Museum, the innovative Grand Egyptian Museum and the elegant Luxor Museum.

Strolling through these beautifully designed spaces is one of the best things to do in Egypt – and the perfect complement to visiting the sites where many of their artefacts were found.

7. Expert Egyptologists

There aren’t many countries with an entire branch of science named after them. Egyptologists are devoted to the study of ancient Egyptian history, architecture, art, language and more. 

Visiting Egypt means learning about every aspect of its past from people who have dedicated their careers to it. These expert guides truly bring history to life; not only at museums and historical sites, but also on Nile cruises and Sahara adventures.

8. Authentic Nubian Villages

Southern Egypt is home to an indigenous group known as the Nubians, who descend from the ancient inhabitants of the Nubia region. Today they proudly keep their languages and traditions alive in small villages near the city of Aswan .

The Nubian villages are among the most interesting places to visit in Egypt , as they form an important – and often overlooked – part of the country’s identity. They’re also incredibly beautiful, with brightly painted houses and welcoming locals who are happy to share their heritage.

9. Year-Round Sunshine

Egypt is a wonderful place to visit in any season, boasting sunny skies and warm temperatures all year round. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach by the Red Sea or sailing down on the Nile on a traditional felucca, you can expect wonderful weather.

That said, summer (July and August) isn’t the best time to visit Egypt if you want to avoid extreme heat. If you’re here from June to August, consider visiting Alexandria on the Mediterranean coast. And keep in mind that some monuments open as early as 6am, before temperatures get too high.

10. Spectacular Snorkelling & Diving

Beyond its infinite deserts and colossal monuments, Egypt is also a world-class destination for underwater adventures. The Red Sea is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and incredibly clear waters, providing perfect conditions to discover its breathtaking marine life.

Visit Egypt’s coast in the summer (July and August) for sparkling sunlight and the best visibility, but remember that this also means hotter weather. If snorkelling and diving are your priorities, you can spend your days exploring beneath the sea’s surface and then cooling off in the shade.

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