Egypt Travel Guide

Key Destinations & Activities

Cairo: Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, Egyptian Museum (or National Museum of Egyptian Civilization for mummies), Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, Islamic Cairo
Luxor & Aswan: The heart of ancient Thebes; Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, Colossi of Memnon, Philae Temple, Aswan High Dam
Nile River: Essential experience via cruise or felucca (traditional sailboat) between Luxor and Aswan.
Abu Simbel: Monumental temples of Ramesses II and Nefertari, accessible from Aswan.
Red Sea: Resorts like Hurghada offer diving and beaches; best in shoulder seasons.
Siwa Oasis: A unique desert oasis with ancient fortresses.

When to Go

Best Time: November to March (cooler, ideal for Nile sites).
Shoulder Seasons: October-November, February-April (fewer crowds, good weather).
Summer (June-August): Extremely hot but great for Red Sea diving; expect discounts.

Practical Tips & Culture

Visas: Obtain in advance or upon arrival (check requirements).
Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP); use ATMs for cash.
Dress Code: Modest clothing (shoulders/knees covered) is respectful, especially in religious/Islamic areas. Avoid white clothes as they get dusty.
Language: English spoken in tourist areas, but basic Arabic helps.
Tipping (Baksheesh): Common; small amounts for helpful gestures.
Transportation: Taxis, Uber/Careem in cities, sleeper trains, domestic flights for long distances.
Safety: Exercise high caution due to terrorism risks; stay aware, especially in crowds, and avoid high-risk zones like parts of Sinai.

Must-Do Experiences

Visit Egypt زيارة مصر

Expat & Traveler Resources (visas, safety, costs)

Visas & Entry

E-Visa/Visa on Arrival: Many nationalities (including US) can get a 30-day single-entry visa for ~$25 cash at airports or apply online via the official Egyptian government site.
Passport Validity: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date.
Official Source: Use the official government e-visa portal, not third-party sites

Safety & Security

General Safety: Violent crime is low; focus on petty theft (pickpocketing) in crowded areas and watch for common tourist scams (overcharging).
Terrorism Risk: The US advises against travel to Sinai (except Sharm El-Sheikh), Western Desert, and border areas; stay updated with your government's travel advisories.
Best Practices: Hire reputable local guides, use official transport, stay aware in crowds, avoid large gatherings/demonstrations, and dress modestly

Costs & Tips

Visa Fee: ~$25 for single-entry (cash, USD often preferred).
Budgeting: Costs are moderate; factor in tours, local transport, food, and tipping (baksheesh).
What to Pack: Light, modest clothing is best; avoid white as desert dust gets everywhere.
Essentials: Get travel insurance, be prepared for busy airports, and learn basic Arabic phrases

Top Luxury & 5-Star Hotels:

The St. Regis Cairo & Fairmont Nile City: Known for modern luxury and excellent service on the Nile.
Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza & First Residence: Consistent high-end experiences.
The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo: Central location with great views.
Kempinski Nile Hotel (Garden City): Boutique luxury with great Nile access and views.
Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino: A historic, beautiful option.
Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis: Praised for comfort and friendly staff.

Iconic Stays:

Great Locations:

Zamalek: An island with beautiful Nile views.
Garden City: Central, elegant area for hotels like Kempinski and InterContinental

Top 10 Places to Visit in Egypt

Here's a top 10 list of places to visit in Egypt:

Pyramids of Giza & Great Sphinx (Cairo): The iconic, must-see wonders of the ancient world.
Luxor (Karnak & Luxor Temples): Home to the vast Karnak Temple complex and the beautifully preserved Luxor Temple, showcasing pharaonic power.
Valley of the Kings (Near Luxor): Where pharaohs like Tutankhamun were buried; explore stunning underground tombs.
Cairo (Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo): Discover treasures at the museum and explore historic mosques and markets like Khan el-Khalili.
Aswan (Philae Temple, Nubian Culture): A charming southern city, gateway to Nubian heritage, Felucca rides, and the Philae Temple.
Abu Simbel (Near Aswan): Massive rock-cut temples of Ramses II, relocated to save them from Lake Nasser.
Red Sea Riviera (Hurghada/Sharm El Sheikh): Ideal for diving, snorkeling, and beach resorts.
Alexandria (Mediterranean Coast): A historic port city with Roman ruins and the modern Library of Alexandria.
White Desert National Park: Unique chalk rock formations for incredible desert camping and stargazing.
Siwa Oasis: A remote, culturally distinct oasis known for its salt lakes and ancient oracle temple