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Are you planning a long-awaited trip to Egypt? Then you’ll need our comprehensive packing guide.

If you’re planning to visit Egypt anytime soon, you’re probably thinking about Egypt packing guide and the dress code (what you should and shouldn’t wear in Egypt), which necessities you should pack in your luggage, and which you should leave at home. If you plan to book an Egypt tour package, you should have an itinerary ahead of time, knowing in advance where your travels will take you. That alone will help you make decisions when packing. As with any trip, the weather will play an essential role in what you pack for Egypt.

Weather in Egypt

Since Egypt’s weather varies depending on the area of the country and the time of year you visit, the dates of your trip will dictate which items make it into your suitcase. With basically two seasons – summer and winter, with the coldest months being November through March – narrowing down your packing list, based on the month of your trip and the Egypt destinations you intend to visit, should be a snap.

Before traveling to Egypt, decide on what to wear in Egypt for your comfort.

Before traveling to Egypt, decide on what to wear in Egypt for your comfort.

Bear in mind, the summer months in Egypt can be stifling. Temperatures can soar in the 100s and humidity can hover around 60 percent in August. That makes for a hot and steamy experience at the Pyramids and other attractions. For this reason, many travelers opt to visit Egypt between November and March when the temperatures are considerably cooler, usually hovering in the 60s and 70s by day and dropping to the 40s and 50s at night. In which case, a jacket should find its way into your luggage. April is also milder than the summer months, but temperatures can still make their way into the high 70s and 80s in the daytime but cool down after dark.

Dress code in Egypt
Egypt is a Muslim country, and therefore, generally conservative. In most places, women will be covered from head to toe. In some progressive areas of Cairo, women may appear more westernized in their appearance. They might not wear abayas or hijabs, but that isn’t typical of Egyptians. Paying attention to wardrobe choices is an excellent way to tell the locals from visitors. Check out our women packing guide here.

While travelers won’t need to dress like Egyptians, all tourists should respect the country’s culture and dress appropriately. Clothing should be loose-fitting and modest. Leave the tank tops, mini-skirts, short shorts, body huggers, plunging necklines, and sheer clothing at home. Women should be prepared to cover their shoulders outside of resorts and beaches and cover their heads inside the mosques. Mosques should loan the necessary garb for women, but keep a pashmina in your bag just in case.

When you’re at the resort or on the beach, though, the modesty rules don’t apply. Bathing suits (even bikinis) are fine for a day of sunbathing, and strappy sundresses and cut-out pieces are acceptable while in the resort. Be prepared to change clothing for your adventures throughout Egypt, though. Even while you’re on an Egypt private tour, you should follow the dress code.

Basic shopping and packing tips for your Egypt trip
To stay cooler in hot months, stick with natural fibers and avoid synthetics. Light-weight, breathable cotton and cotton/linen blends will become your best friend in Egypt.

White or very light-colored garments will dirty easily because Egypt is in the desert and quite dusty. Stick with colors and medium-colored neutrals. In summer, avoid black or very dark colors, as those will attract heat, and could make you feel warmer.

Comfy flat walking sandals may be better than sneakers in the warmer months, allowing feet to breathe.

Forgo the high heels in Egypt. Old streets and walkways don’t lend themselves to skinny high heels. Stick with flats, low heels and wedges, if you must.

In winter months, you’ll need a sweater or jacket in the evenings when temperatures can be 50 degrees or below. Layering may work best.

If you booked a luxury Egypt tour package, some itineraries might include meals at fine dining restaurants. Select a few smart outfits for nighttime outings. Check out our guide about things to know before visiting Egypt.

Now let’s move on to the essentials to pack for Egypt. Below, a list of wardrobe basics for both women and men. Let’s start with women.

Women’s Clothing Essentials for Egypt
Maxi-skirts or skirts below the knee

Long, flowy dresses

Palazzo pants

Cropped pants

T-shirts

Three-quarter sleeve shirts

Button-up blouses

Pashmina or large scarf

Bathing suit and cover-up

Undergarments

Wide-brimmed straw hat

Comfortable, cool walking shoes

Flip-flops for the beach or pool

Breathable tennis shoes

Dressier shoes, flats, low heels or wedges for evenings out

Small cross-body purse for evenings

Sunglasses

Costume jewelry

Basic watch

Hair accessories to keep hair back on hot days

(If you plan to visit in cooler months, add a pair of jeans, cardigan sweater, warm scarf, beanie, and windbreaker type jacket.)

Workout clothing (in case you want to exercise in the hotel fitness center)

Tote or day bag

Now, on to the gentleman. You’ll see that packing for guys is a bit easier.

Men’s Clothing Essentials for Egypt
Khaki pants

Knee-length shorts

Breathable dress slacks

T-shirts

Golf shirts

Button-up shirts

Undergarments

Sandals

Breathable tennis shoes

Flip-flops for the beach or pool

Driving shoes of loafers for evenings out

Swim trunks

Sunglasses

Basic watch

Baseball hat (or another hat to protect your face from the intense sun)

(If you plan to visit Egypt in cooler months, add a pair of jeans, pullover, scarf, beanie, and windbreaker type jacket.)

Workout clothing (in case you want to exercise in the hotel fitness center)

Backpack for day trips (optional)

Other Essentials to Pack for Egypt
Sunscreen (30 SPF or higher) to combat the intense sun in Egypt

Hand Sanitizer

Passport

International cell phone and charger

Power Bank to recharge your phone during a day of sightseeing

Universal travel adapters (I recommend two in case one fails)

Camera (You’ll have your phone camera, but invest in a compact digital camera to capture the highlights of your trip.)

Earbuds

Refillable water bottle (to keep water cooler than throwaway plastic bottles)

Travel pillow for sleeping on the plane

A fold-up bag to bring back all the souvenirs you’ll find shopping at the souks

$25 in cash (USD) to pay for a visa upon arrival

The best time to travel to Egypt is during the winter from September to April as the climate becomes a bit tropical accompanied by a magical atmosphere of warm weather with a winter breeze. You will be notified in the week of your trip if the weather is unsafe and if any changes have been made.

Today we will talk about the Christian Monuments and Monasteries in Egypt, when it comes to religion in Egypt, most of us tend to think either of the current dominant religion (Islam) or, especially in terms of tourism, of the ancient religion. The beliefs of god-king Pharaohs, the afterlife, and the concept of multiple deities fascinates most of us and is often a tourism focal point. However, what you may now know is that Christianity also played a large role in Egyptian history and still does today.

The Christian religion has an interesting history in Egypt. It has changed and adapted over time, but ultimately survived over thousands of years. Amid the bustling streets of Cairo and out amid the wind-blown sands of the desert you will still find Christian churches, monasteries, and monuments; many of which are still working and in use today.

For those interested in learning more about Christianity in Egypt, and the monuments and monasteries that you can still see and visit, this article is for you.

Christianity in Egypt

The Arrival of Christianity in Egypt
Christianity is said to have been brought to Egypt by the Apostle Saint Mark shortly after the death of Jesus Christ.

While the arrival of Christianity in Egypt was not entirely without conflict, many Egyptians quickly accepted and adapted to this new religion. This was in part due to timing, but also because Christianity and the ancient Egyptian religion had many similarities.

Christianity arrived in Egypt at a time where the old belief system was falling apart. The god-king Pharaohs had been dethroned and the Roman Empire had swept into the country. While Christianity was new and different, there were many similar aspects that the Egyptians understood. Concepts like the death and resurrection of a god and the belief in an afterlife; a paradise where good and faithful souls would be rewarded.

Furthermore, the sign of the Christian cross was very similar to that of the Egyptian Ankh and, of course, the belief that God chose Egypt as a hiding place for baby Jesus was a source of pride for many Christian Egyptians.

Christianity in Egypt Today
Today, Christianity is the second largest religion in Egypt (the dominant religion is Islam). The majority of the Christians are Coptic Christians, and it is estimated that there are somewhere between 20-30 million followers of this faith in Egypt alone. In fact, Egypt has the largest Christian population in the Middle East and North Africa.

Christian Monuments and Monasteries in Egypt
Unsurprisingly given the history and current status of Christianity in Egypt, the country is home to a number of Christian churches, monuments, and monasteries. Many of which can be visited during your Egypt trip.

While Christian monuments and monasteries don’t tend to be the focus of most escorted tours of Egypt, you can customize your vacation and ask to include some of these sites in your private tour packages of Egypt.

Here are some of the main Christian monuments and monasteries in Egypt that you may be interested in seeing for yourself.

Hanging Church of Cairo
The hanging church in old Cairo is actually called the Saint Virgin Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church. It’s one of the oldest churches in Egypt and is thought to date back to the 7th century, although there was another building located on the same site that dates as far back as the 3rd century.

The Hanging Church gets its nickname because of its appearance. The church itself is built above a gatehouse of a Roman-built fortress, and the nave is suspended over a passageway making it appear as if the church is hanging above. While the site is impressive today, it was even more impressive in the past when the ground level was several meters lower.

The Hanging Church, one of the most famous Christina Monuments in Cairo, Egypt

The Hanging Church in Cairo is not just historic and unique in its appearance, but it’s also one of the most religiously significant churches in Egypt. It was designated as the official residence of the Coptic Orthodox Pope in 1047. Several patriarchs chose to be consecrated, elected, and enthroned in this church and it is known as a site for several different apparitions of the Virgin Mary.

Today, tourists are welcome to visit the Hanging Church. Admission is free and the church is open from 9am to 5pm every day. Coptic Mass is held from 8am-11am on Wednesdays and Fridays and from 9am-11am on Sundays.

Abu Serga Church

Abu Serga is another historic church located in Cairo. Also known as Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church, it is believed that Abu Serga was built either in the 5th or 8th century. This church is dedicated to two Martyrs named Sergius and Bacchus who were Roman officers that were killed and martyred after it was discovered that they were both secret Christians.

It is also believed that Joseph, Mary, and baby Jesus stopped in the spot upon which the church was built after they fled to Egypt. As such, for most visitors, the main draw of Abu Serga is the crypt where the Holy Family is said to have rested.

The Church of Saint Barbara

Dating back to the 5th or 6th century, the Church of Saint Barbara is another historic church that can be found in Cairo. Like most of the other Coptic buildings in Cairo, it was rebuilt multiple times- the most notable of which was during the 11th century.

The Church of Saint Barbara was originally dedicated to St. Cyrus and St. John, two martyrs who were worshipped for their healing powers. However, documents dating back to the 13 century say that relics of St. Barbara were moved and kept here, hence its current name. This church is known for its precious items which included bible caskets, two-door panels, and ancient icons, most of which now can be found in the nearby Coptic museum.

Monastery of Saint Simon

The Monastery of Saint Simon is one of the most unique Christian sites in all of Egypt, and also the largest Christian church in the Middle East.

The Monastery of Saint Simon is located in what is referred to as ‘Garbage City’ which is within the limits of metropolitan Cairo. The official name for this area is Manshiyat Nasser, and the majority of people who live here are Coptic Christians known as the Zabbaleen. They collect garbage from Cairo’s residents (for a fee) and bring it back to their neighbourhood to sort and find recyclable goods.

It was the Zabbaleen that built the Monastery of Saint Simon in a cave within Garbage City. Saint Simon was a tanner from the 10th century, and this monastery built in his name can seat up to 20,000 people. There are also separate church spaces built within the surrounding caves, creating a large Christian complex within Garbage City.

While this part of Cairo isn’t exactly known for tourism, hundreds of thousands of people still make the pilgrimage to this monastery every year.

Saint Catherine’s Monastery

Officially known as the ‘Sacred Monastery of the God-Trodden Mount Sinai’, this monastery is dedicated to Catherine of Alexandria and is located at the mouth of a gorge near the base of Mount Sinai.

This monastery was built between 548 and 565 and is one of the oldest functioning Christian monasteries in the world. It was built by order of Emperor Justinian on the site where Moses is said to have seen the burning bush; a sacred site to Christianity, Islam, and Judaism.

St. Catherine Monastery is one of the most amazing Christina monuments in Egypt – Photo Credit: Encyclopaedia Britannica

Saint Catherine’s Monastery also contains the world’s oldest continually operating library which is home to a number of unique books. It also holds the second largest collection of early codices and manuscripts (the Vatican Library has the largest number). The Codex Sinaiticus, which dates back to the 4th Century and is one of the oldest preserved manuscripts of the Bible was found here. Also discovered at the Monastery was the Syriac Sinaiticus, which pre-dates the Codex Sinaiticus and was crucial in understanding the history of the New Testament. The Syriac Sinaiticus can still be found at the monastery today.

Unsurprisingly, Saint Catherine’s Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Monastery of Saint Anthony

The Monastery of Saint Anthony is located in the eastern Sahara Desert, in the Red Sea Mountains near modern-day Hurghada. It was built by an oasis where Saint Anthony the Great, one of the ‘Desert Fathers’, spent his time after choosing to travel into the desert to escape those seeking his advice as he believed that it distracted him from his own worship.

The Monastery was built in 356, a few years after Saint Anthony’s death. It is one of the oldest monasteries in the world and the same rituals have been practiced here, unchanged, for more than sixteen centuries.

While this monastery was attacked and faced a lot of damage over the years, it still has plenty to see. Today, the monastery acts like a small town with several churches, gardens, and even a working bakery. There are plenty of remarkable paintings, some of which are believed to date back to the 7th and 8th centuries, as well as ancient woodworks, and more than 1700 documents in the library.

Monastery of Saint Paul

Located in Egypt’s Eastern Desert, the Monastery of Saint Paul dates back to the 5th century. Saint Paul is believed to have been the mentor of Saint Anthony. Saint Paul was orphaned by the age of sixteen and left his inheritance behind to dedicate his life to Egypt. He found refuge in the Eastern Desert where he lived to be 113. It is said that Saint Anthony sought out Saint Paul after hearing that there was a man in the desert who was holier than he. The two became friends until Paul’s death. According to the stories, Anthony saw Paul’s spirit carried away by the angels and watched as two lions then dug a grave and buried his body.

The Monastery of Saint Paul also known as Deir Anba Bula, is built like a fortress. This was common due to Christian monasteries and churches being raided and pillaged by Bedouin and Berber groups. Despite its remote location, the Monastery of Saint Paul still fell under attack several times over the centuries.

Should you choose to visit, there are three churches on the grounds which you can visit including that of Saint Paul the Anchorite which is dug into the cave where Saint Paul spent so many years. There are also many manuscripts owned by the monastery that you can view as well.

Wadi El-Natroun

Wadi el-Natroun is a valley located about 62 miles from Cairo. In ancient Egypt, it was important as it was full of the carbonated sodium needed for the mummification process. It was also important to the Romans, who found the area to also be a source of silica which they used for making glass. However, while this wadi was full of resources, it also had another use; a safe haven for Christians fleeing Roman persecution.

At one point, Wadi el-Natroun was full of monasteries. However, after the wear and tear of time, weather, and Bedouin raids, only four monasteries have survived and can be seen today. These are:

1) The Monastery of Anba Bishoy

2) The Monastery of Baramus

3) The Monastery of Abu Makar

4) The Monastery of El-Suryan

It is possible to visit all four of these monasteries as a day trip from Cairo. The Monastery of Abu Makar is especially impressive. It is home to more than 100 monks and has over 600 works who live on the grounds and work on the monastery’s farm.

Final Word
Without a doubt, Egypt has a rich religious history and while the ancient Pharaonic religion and current Islam religion tend to be the focus, those who have an interest in Christianity in Egypt will not be disappointed by the incredible churches, monasteries, and Christian sites spread throughout the country.

If you are interested in adding any of these Christian monuments and monasteries to your visit, get in touch with our team. We’re happy to customize your Egypt private tour package to your interests.

Discover the Valley of the Kings in the West Bank of Luxor

Egypt is home to one of the oldest civilizations in the world and this country has a fascinatingly rich and complex history. One of the best parts of your escorted tours in Egypt will be learning the stories and legends of the pharaohs and queens of ancient Egypt and marveling at their impressive tombs in the Valley of the Kings in Luxor.

Valley of the Kings, also known as valley of the secrets

One of the most awe-inspiring sites in Egypt in the West Bank of Luxor. This is where many tombs were built for the powerful pharaohs and nobles, filled with riches to accompany them into the afterlife. This setting has been a major focus of archaeological interest since the 18th century and the most well known is the tomb of Tutankhamen – one of the most famous archeological sites in the world.

All of the best Egypt tours will take you here, as this amazing collection of buildings gives a fascinating insight into the lives of the powerful leaders of ancient Egypt.

The hidden tombs of the Valley of the Kings

About the Valley of King

The Valley of Kings was created around 1539 BC and it was used until around 1075 BC. In total there are 60 tombs within the valley and they are for the pharaohs well as for their favorite nobles, their wives and their children. The Valley of the Queens was created around 1300 BC in the time of Ramses, but even after that some wives were buried with their husbands there.

The best tombs in the Valley of the Kings

Unfortunately, nearly all of the tombs have been opened up and robbed throughout the centuries – but even what is left behind shows the wealth and power of the pharaohs.

Tips for Visiting the Valley of the Kings

Bring a flashlight with you when you are visiting the tombs in the Valley of the Kings, as it is very useful for seeing the wall paintings and reliefs in the dark corners of the tombs. Also, make sure that you are wearing comfortable walking shoes as there are many stairs and sometimes you will be walking on uneven stone. Bring plenty of water with you as well as sunscreen and a sunhat for when you are walking between each of the tombs in the bright sunlight.

Amazing paintings in the Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings has a visitor center with toilets and a small-scale model of the entire valley, so that you can plan out where you want to go first. There is also a tourist bazaar near the visitor center if you need to buy snacks or cold drinks. Keep yourself hydrated, as the sun will be very hot! You may want to consider taking advantage of the little electric train that runs from the visitor center to the start of the tombs area. In the heat of the day it is worth it so that you can avoid the walk.

Tomb of King Tut in the Valley of the Kings

You can read Egypt tour reviews to find out which tour operator will offer you the best experience. We have tour guides who are experts in Egypt history, so we provide an exceptional experience for our guests by enriching their visit with knowledge about this intriguing time period. Also, we are very flexible so that you will be able to customize the tour to your desires. To find out more about our experiences at the Valley of the Kings, you can contact us at any time.

Eid al-Fitr

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

Eid al-Adha

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

Sham el-Nessim

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

Abu Simbel Sun Festival

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

Are Egypt tours safe?
This has to be one of the most asked questions right now, especially after the revolutions of January 2011 and June 2013. To be honest it is actually safer for tourists here than it is for many Egyptians! Granted, what happened in Taba in February 2014, with the blowing up of the bus containing South Korean tourists, was not good news, but without trying to make that event sound light, attacks aimed at locals and tourists have happened here for many years: bombings in Taba and Nuweiba (October 2004); Sharm El Sheikh (July 2005); Dahab (April 2006); the Khan El Khalili (February 2009); and of course the infamous massacre at Deir El Bahri (the Temple of Hatshepsut) in Luxor (November 1997). The big problem is terrorism is a world-wide threat, not something that is just confined to Egypt! If one was to look at a list of terrorist attacks, as well as cold-blooded shootings and such-like, it would seem that there are only two places left in the world that are safe to visit: the Arctic and the Antarctic!
The most important thing that any reputable tour company in Egypt has to do is to ensure the safety of their customers; whether it be a huge company with hundreds of staff or a small company run by just a couple of people. Should a situation arise (the January 25th revolution for example), then the safety of the customer is paramount and procedures are put into place to get them out of harm’s way, even out of the country, as soon as possible: with no extra cost for doing so, and refunding where applicable (many companies lost a lot of money, some had to cease trading, ensuring the safety of their customers in January/February 2011 and making sure all due monies were refunded). Granted, there are lots and lots of companies who simply do not care, they just want the profits, but this is a world-wide phenomenon and not just Egyptian. Many of those companies actually no longer exist: the customers DID get there refunds, even by using the courts, and so the companies own attitudes forced them out of business! Each and every tourist is looked at as a human being, a fellow human being, and this is why the reputable companies will do all they can for them.
So, the question still remains, is Egypt safe? Going by reports in the media it would appear to be no. But from the ground in the country itself, by actually going out into the streets and visiting the places that tourists normally visit, the answer is yes, and very much so. Egypt’s tourist sites are safe, they all have a heavy police presence and this helps keeps the idiots away. Ironically, these sites are actually safer since the ouster of ex-President Mohamed Morsi than they were after the resignation of ex-President Hosni Mubarak, the relevant authorities obviously learning from their mistakes. But as we are talking about Egypt being safe NOW, not in the near or distant past, let us look at a few things for proof.
Since the ouster of ex-President Morsi there have been many problems throughout Egypt, but especially in Cairo. These facts are reported by the media, either wholly or semi-truthfully (or in the case of a media outlet based in Qatar, almost truth free) and the world listens. Unfortunately the follow up is never done! Take the situation of the sit-in, and eventual clearance, of the Rabaa Al Adawiya Mosque. Forgetting the ins and outs, right and wrongs, of what happened in August 2013 (this article is not judgemental in any way towards the ouster, and subsequent aftermaths, of ex-President Morsi), there are some facts about the location of the Mosque that people should know. It is actually located in an area of Nasr City that tourists do not visit, unless they wish to see the site where ex-President Anwar Sadat was assassinated or his burial place, across the main road at the Unknown Soldier Memorial. There are no hotels or major tourist sites in the immediate vicinity, yet it is/was the epicentre of the world’s government’s advisory warnings to not travel to Egypt! The Rabaa Al Adawiya Mosque is now as it was before the sit-in, though with a medium police presence, and the traffic is as manic as ever.
None of the major tourist sites have been in any type of danger. The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities (the Egyptian Museum or Cairo Museum), in Tahrir Square, was not ransacked this time and has been open for business throughout. To be perfectly honest, the Museum of Islamic Art is the only tourist site to be damaged, and it was only included in specialised itineraries, so was not what is generally termed a “major site”. Likewise the Mallawi Museum near Minya; well off the tourist path and only, usually, visited by those who have a specialised reason for doing so.
Right now Egypt is as safe to visit as it was prior to the January 25th revolution. Granted there are the unfortunate deaths of police and army personnel, but Egypt has always had a problem with troublemakers coming from the Sinai, it was just not headline news whenever it occurred. Downtown Cairo is now street stall free, with plenty of room to walk around the tourist shops in Talaat Harb, Kasr El Nil, and Tahrir Street. The streets are being regularly patrolled to ensure it stays so, and this has also led to a lot more cleanliness, with street sweepers and street washers driving around, throughout the night. There are no mass marches throughout the capital, and if any do occur they are swiftly dealt with, and they are never in areas frequented by tourists.

The entire country of Egypt deserve to be seen with its every heavenly detail but there are places that must be seen such as the breathtaking Sharm El-Sheikh , Hurghada’s red sea, The wonders of Cairo the pyramids of Giza, the great sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, Khan El Khalili Bazar, the wonders of Luxor like Valley of the Kings, Karnak and Hatshepsut temple and the wonders of Aswan like Abu Simbel temples, Philea temple, Unfinished obelisk and The Wonders of Alexandria like Qaitbat Citadel, Pompey’s Pillar and Alexandria Library, White and Black Desert.

It is the home of everything a traveler might be looking for from amazing historical sites dating to more than 4000 years to enchanting city resorts & beaches. You will live the vacation you deserve as Egypt has everything you could possibly imagine.

Egypt boasts of a spectacularly beautiful landscape filled with cultural gems. Sun, sea and sand interspersed with a touch of exotic culture and heritage, the gushing river Nile, ancient monuments, vast deserts, world-famous coral reefs to cosmopolitan cities – enough reasons to visit Egypt! That ensures you don’t have to browse through hundreds of holiday destinations across the globe for your perfect vacation – the mesmerizing land of Egypt has it all!

A land that gave birth to one of the ‘Seven Wonders of the Ancient World’ – the Great Pyramids of Giza, one of the largest bazaars in the Middle East located in Cairo – Khan-el-Khalili, coastal resorts of Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh – ideal for family holidays, jam packed beach resorts brimming with luxury, water sports activities, entertainment and shopping…the list is long! Here are the top 12 reasons why you should visit Egypt right now.

12 reasons why you should travel to Egypt:

1-Gaze At The Pyramids of Giza.

Let’s state the obvious first, right? The initial draw for many tourists to Egypt is to see the pyramids that we all learned about while in primary school. And, in my opinion, they don’t disappoint – they’re spectacular! The Great Pyramid of Giza (the largest of the three) is the oldest and is the only one of the “Seven Wonders of the Ancient World” which is still standing.

2-Play Kissy-Face With The Sphinx.

Also located in Giza near the pyramids is the Great Sphinx. The sphinx is the oldest known monumental sculpture and is generally believed to have been built sometime around 2520-2494 BC. You can pay a small price and have a talented local to pose you to appear to be kissing Mr. Sphinx.

3-Indulge in Delicious Egyptian Cuisine.

I found Egyptian food to be fantastic! I loved lamb kebab (minced meat skewers), baba ghannoug (a spread made with eggplant), kofta (meatballs), dolma (stuffed grape leaves), shawarma (shredded meat in a pita) and even mahshi hamam (roasted pigeon stuffed with rice and herbs)! (Hey, don’t knock the pigeon until you’ve tried it).

4-Search for Treasure while Shopping in Khan-el-Khalili

The Khan al-Khalili market in Cairo is one of the Middle East’s largest bazaars and is filled with copper, spices, alabaster, silver and perfumes. The “Khan,” as it is often called, may be my very favorite of all the markets and bazaars I’ve visited during my travels. If you have a discerning eye and are a good negotiator you can find great deals on quality products.

5-Hit the Beach and Splash in the Red Sea.

Need a break from the heat and sightseeing? If you’re seeking relaxation and respite head to Egypt’s Red Sea Riviera. The area is jam-packed with beach resorts and brimming with five star luxury, watersports, shopping and entertainment.Reasons Why You Should Travel to Egypt

6-Admire Ancient Antiquities at the Egyptian Museum.

While in Cairo, browse the dazzling collection at the Egyptian Museum. Where else can you see King Tut’s golden mask and mummies? Read more about the top 5 “must-sees” in the Egyptian Museum here.

7-Kick Back, Relax and Cruise the Nile River.
I’m typically not a “cruise” person, but I thoroughly enjoyed my three night cruise on the Nile River traveling from Aswan to Luxor. Aside from forcing me to relax and slow down a bit, the scenery from the ship was fantastic and ever-changing. One moment the ship was drifting past lush jungle foliage, and the next the scenery was changing to a camel-filled arid desert. From the deck of the ship, you’ll see Egyptian men plowing their fields and women washing their dishes in the river – sights seemingly unchanged from hundreds of years ago.

8-Explore Temples, Temples and More Temples.
After the pyramids, the main reason most tourists visit Egypt is to travel back in time (or, pretend to be Indiana Jones) while exploring the country’s ancient temples. The temples are filled with interesting carvings, paintings and hieroglyphics. My favorite that I saw is the one pictured above of a woman giving birth!

9-Feel the Thrill while Sailing on the River Nile.
A felucca is a small, traditional Egyptian wooden sailboat. It’s possible to take a felucca tour lasting several days; however, I would recommend taking an hour or two cruise at sunset while in Cairo,Luxor or Aswan. The ride is a beautiful and a memorable experience.

10-Experience Alexandria’s European Flair.
Alexandria was the place for wealthy Europeans to vacation in the 1930’s. Although the city is well-past it’s golden era, Alexandria makes for an interesting visit since the city has an extremely different vibe from other Egyptian cites. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time as you stroll the through the streets lined with gorgeous, albeit run-down, European style buildings.

11-A Scenic Hot Air Balloon Ride
Get the once-in-a-lifetime experience to witness the glories of the ancient historical sights of Egypt from the air. This hot air balloon ride can take you to explore the majestic side of Egypt as you glide over the pyramids, burial grounds and some of the best ancient temples.

12-Mix and Mingle with Friendly Locals.
Unfortunately, it seems that sometimes Egyptian men get a bad rap in Western media. In my experience, all the Egyptians I met were kind and helpful.

Squat toilets are most common in Egypt, although Western-style flushable toilets can be found in larger hotels and some tourist areas.
There are guarded toilets around main places, which surpass the former, but bear in mind that they are used by so many tourist. Someone may be stationed in front of the restrooms, giving toilet paper at a price of 2 LE, and they sometimes ensure the restrooms are kept quite clean.

Wear whatever feels right and comfortable. It is advised to wear something light, sunblock during your time in Egypt in the summer and wear comfortable footwear like a closed-toe shoe to sustain the terrain of Egypt.

Egypt is a Muslim country, and therefore, generally conservative. In most places, women will be covered from head to toe. In some progressive areas of Cairo, women may appear more westernized in their appearance. They might not wear abayas or hijabs, but that isn’t typical of Egyptians. Paying attention to wardrobe choices is an excellent way to tell the locals from visitors. Check out our women packing guide here.

While travelers won’t need to dress like Egyptians, all tourists should respect the country’s culture and dress appropriately. Clothing should be loose-fitting and modest. Leave the tank tops, mini-skirts, short shorts, body huggers, plunging necklines, and sheer clothing at home. Women should be prepared to cover their shoulders outside of resorts and beaches and cover their heads inside the mosques. Mosques should loan the necessary garb for women, but keep a pashmina in your bag just in case.

When you’re at the resort or on the beach, though, the modesty rules don’t apply. Bathing suits (even bikinis) are fine for a day of sunbathing, and strappy sundresses and cut-out pieces are acceptable while in the resort. Be prepared to change clothing for your adventures throughout Egypt, though. Even while you’re on an Egypt private tour, you should follow the dress code.

Basic shopping and packing tips for your Egypt trip
To stay cooler in hot months, stick with natural fibers and avoid synthetics. Light-weight, breathable cotton and cotton/linen blends will become your best friend in Egypt.

White or very light-colored garments will dirty easily because Egypt is in the desert and quite dusty. Stick with colors and medium-colored neutrals. In summer, avoid black or very dark colors, as those will attract heat, and could make you feel warmer.

Comfy flat walking sandals may be better than sneakers in the warmer months, allowing feet to breathe.

Forgo the high heels in Egypt. Old streets and walkways don’t lend themselves to skinny high heels. Stick with flats, low heels and wedges, if you must.

In winter months, you’ll need a sweater or jacket in the evenings when temperatures can be 50 degrees or below. Layering may work best.

If you booked a luxury Egypt tour package, some itineraries might include meals at fine dining restaurants. Select a few smart outfits for nighttime outings. Check out our guide about things to know before visiting Egypt.

Now let’s move on to the essentials to pack for Egypt. Below, a list of wardrobe basics for both women and men. Let’s start with women.

Women’s Clothing Essentials for Egypt
Maxi-skirts or skirts below the knee

Long, flowy dresses

Palazzo pants

Cropped pants

T-shirts

Three-quarter sleeve shirts

Button-up blouses

Pashmina or large scarf

Bathing suit and cover-up

Undergarments

Wide-brimmed straw hat

Comfortable, cool walking shoes

Flip-flops for the beach or pool

Breathable tennis shoes

Dressier shoes, flats, low heels or wedges for evenings out

Small cross-body purse for evenings

Sunglasses

Costume jewelry

Basic watch

Hair accessories to keep hair back on hot days

(If you plan to visit in cooler months, add a pair of jeans, cardigan sweater, warm scarf, beanie, and windbreaker type jacket.)

Workout clothing (in case you want to exercise in the hotel fitness center)

Tote or day bag

Now, on to the gentleman. You’ll see that packing for guys is a bit easier.

Men’s Clothing Essentials for Egypt
Khaki pants

Knee-length shorts

Breathable dress slacks

T-shirts

Golf shirts

Button-up shirts

Undergarments

Sandals

Breathable tennis shoes

Flip-flops for the beach or pool

Driving shoes of loafers for evenings out

Swim trunks

Sunglasses

The best time to go on a Nile cruise is between October and April. It’s not too hot, which is important since you’ll be hopping on and off to visit temples along the way. The heat in Aswan and Luxor is intense, and it’s not recommended that you travel during the peak summer months from June through August. The average temperatures hover over the 100 F (40 C) mark, and it’s even hotter when you’re inside some of the tombs. Plus, there’s not a lot of shade around.

Egypt is an extremely diverse holiday destination, and there is a holiday opportunity for travellers of every taste, interest and budget. This country is unique as a holiday destination as it offers not just one, not just two, but three different types of holiday. Where else in the world can you choose from the exploration of a civilization that existed between 2,500 and 5,000 (at least) years ago, with the choice of a river cruise to help you relax; the chance to unwind and soak up the sun’s rays next to, in, or under the beautiful Red Sea; the enjoyment and pleasure of a hotel or resort on the Mediterranean coast. Egypt offers all three, as well as the possibility of “mix and match”, which allows you to tailor your holiday to include whatever you want.

Destinations:

If you like exploring ancient archaeological sites and/or gaining an insight into local culture, then the Nile Valley is for you; where you can enjoy a short break in the bustling atmosphere of Cairo, or relax by, or on, the majestic River Nile in Luxor or Aswan. This is your chance to visit the famous Giza Pyramids, the Egyptian Museum, the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and much, much, more. Almost three quarters of the world’s ancient sites can be seen here. Lake Nasser is also a quickly growing attraction for tourists, with cruises taken you to many ancient sites, including Abu Simbel.

If you’re after a relaxing beach holiday, the Red Sea is ideal, with near-perfect weather, sandy beaches, warm, crystal-clear waters and excellent hotels and resorts. Here is where you can enjoy sun bathing, swimming, diving, snorkelling, windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing, 4X4 excursions, Bedouin barbeques and much more. And that is not just only Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada; destinations also include Dahab, Nuweiba, Taba, Ain Sukhna, Berenice, El Gouna, Makadi Bay, Marsa Alam, Port Ghalib, Quseir, Ras Gharib, Safaga, Soma Bay, and many more! Each resort is different in terms of facilities, atmosphere, activities and convenience of location, so you are definitely spoiled for choice.

For a beach holiday that combines sun and sand with a taste of authentic modern Egyptian culture, the Mediterranean coast is for you, with hotels and/or resorts available in Alexandria, Arish, Damietta, El Alamein, Marina, Marsa Matruh, Port Said, Rafah, Rosetta/Rashid, and many more smaller towns. Ancient Greco/Roman sites are also on view throughout the region, with Alexandria being the epicentre of these.

Culture:

Although Egypt is a Muslim country, figures estimate that 10 of the population is Christian, with the vast majority of these being Coptic Christians. This means that the Christian population is as big, or bigger, than the populations of countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Belgium, Norway, Greece, or Sweden. Because of this, Egypt’s culture is strongly influenced by Christianity and it is not unusual to see Christmas decorations throughout the major cities; Santa Claus figures in the various shopping areas and streets; Easter eggs; and other such seasonal adornments. Add to this the influx of multinational food and shopping outlets, and you almost forget where you are: even when the muezzin is heard calling the faithful to prayer five times a day, from loudspeakers on the minarets of the mosques.

Tipping is customary for pretty much all services in Egypt. A tip of 10-15% is customary at cafes and restaurants and loose change is an acceptable for food purchases from street vendors and markets. It’s also a good idea to tip local guides and drivers USD 2-5 per day.

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

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

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

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

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

Egypt is a fantastic place for photography, with ample sunshine to make those holiday snaps look really good. However there are some restrictions on where you cannot take photos as well as some good advice on photography in general.

Restrictions
Because of the damage that flash photography can cause to some ancient paintwork, photography inside tombs is forbidden. Over the years many people have tried to get around this problem by giving tips/bribes to the guards outside these tombs, especially in the Valley of the Kings, which has now forced the authorities to set up security points at the entrances where all photographic items are to be deposited until the visitor leaves the site. “No Flash Photography” means just that and these signs are there for a reason.

Inside museums is another place that discourages photography, though it is possible to purchase a permit at some of them, or a visit can be arranged, at an additional cost, to accommodate those who want to photograph the exhibits. These restrictions are mainly there to save problems between the photographer and the people who just want to look at the items on display: someone taking photos in the narrow aisles can easily cause a jam of people, which in turn can lead to some ugly scenes. To keep the people moving, it is far easier to stop the main cause of the problems.

Although some sites do allow you to take photographs with no restrictions, you may find certain areas within them which do not. These areas are well signposted with “No Photography” markers. Again, there is a genuine reason for this, so please do as requested.

Do not take any photos of anything military, be it Army, Navy, Air Force or police! If you do, you do face the prospect of having your photographic equipment confiscated. However, sometimes you may be able to get photographs with some of these people, if you ask them first. There are also restrictions at some industrial sites/plants, but these are normally well signed. If in doubt, ask someone official.

Underwater photography is allowed, but remember to ask about any restrictions that may apply in certain areas (Ras Mohammed for example).

Advice
If you wish a photo taken of yourself, in some particular location, try and get a fellow visitor, or even a guide, to do this for you. Many of the people that work on the sites, whether officially or not, will expect you to give them a tip for taking your picture, and the tip will never be big enough for them!

Some sites do allow you to use tripods, some are even free of charge, but remember that other visitors are looking around and so it may take you a long period of time to get the photograph you require.

Usually you will find that the earlier you visit the sites, the quieter they tend to be. Alternatively, just before closing time also tends to be a quieter time. Try and time your visit(s) to those periods when there will be less people.

Make sure you have ample batteries and/or memory cards before visiting the sites. Very few sites have shops/stalls that sell these items and those that do tend to be more expensive than shops in the city centers.

Ask before taking photos of locals as some people may object to their picture being taken without permission. A simple question is far better than a huge argument!

Travelling to Egypt and deciding when is really a matter of activities. If you are into swimming and snorkelling in the ocean, clubbing with sand between your feet and getting a real nice tan, then there is no reason not to head to Sharm el-Sheikh or Hurghada during the very hot months of summer where 38 – 45 degrees celcius are not uncommon.

If you are more into sightseeing and cultural stuff, then the best time to go is between October and April. Christmas and Easter are considered the very high season. No matter what the weather, the nights during winter can get cold so always wear layers. During the hottest months of summer, the nights are warm and balmy, but it can be really windy on the coasts. The sun is extremely strong all year round so take a hat and have plenty of SPF or you will peel.

Also remember that places in the south like Aswan and Luxor are hot during the summer. Egypt is close to deserts so there is always sand in the air so forget about wearing contact lenses. Make sure you take your sun glasses.

Be careful on hot days especially in summer. If you want to see sites during hot days, either go early in the morning or late in the day. Do enjoy a stroll along the Nile in the evening as there will be a cool breeze and lots of people watching going on or try a felucca ride.

Either season, the winds can be strong and during the early months of spring, there is a risk of severe sandstorms in Egypt, the khamsin. When the khamsin is blowing, you can do nothing but stay inside and wait until it has passed. Sightseeing is not possible during a sandstorm. Windy summernights are nice, but be careful during the day, as the wind sometimes fool you so that you do not feel the heat and the rays from the sun and you will burn easily.

Cairo Weather and When to Go
To Speak about weather, it is important to realize that in Egypt weather is different from one place to another/

The high season for tourism in Egypt is all year with winter and spring being peak season for cultural travels with lots of sightseeing. Weather in Egypt is perfect for many kinds of tourism, and if coming in June, July and August , head for the seaside resorts. Those months are hot with temperatures that can reach around 45 degrees C. and the humidity is about 70 to 80%, but it is bearable with the sea and large swimming pools nearby.

So the period of high summer season is also crowded as hotels fill up with tourists from all over the world looking for a bargain, lots of sunshine, diving, snorkelling etc. It is also a primary vacation time in Europe. If you come in the deep summer season you can still enjoy it because you can always sightsee early in the morning and go again at night when the sun sets. You will definitely need good sunscreen and lot of liquids to drink with a nice hat on your head.

It is not true at all that Egypt has only 2 seasons with 9 months of summer and the remainder winter. There are 4 distinguishable seasons.

The best times to visit Egypt are from September till March, during which time the weather is good; and from September till mid-November, when it is very nice and the temperatures are pleasant for all activities – around 25 C to 15 C. Mid-Nov till the end of February is winter time when temperatures during day are around 12 or 15 degree C, and at night can drop to about 7 or 8 C.

From March until the end of April, there is usually some sand blown about by high winds. However on some days–perhaps only two or three during this two-month period, the weather can be so dusty that you may be not able to go outside. But the majority of days there is just a small amount of dust in the air because of wind that blows through the desert from the west.

Egypt is perfect all year for snorkelling, diving, and so on, in the Red Sea area in Hurgada and Sharm el Sheikh. In winter time it gets both windy and chilly there, which makes it perfect for windsurfing and kiting.

So in speaking about when to visit, it’s all up to you. If cost doesn’t matter, then winter is when you will want to go, especially Christmas and New Year or the period of Easter from mid-March till end of April. That is when the best weather will occur, even though it gets chilly in December and January but it’s still suitable for many aspects of tourism during that time.

From mid-March till end of April, is the Easter season for Orthodox and Catholic Easter celebrations – the weather is so nice, but rates increase as it is a high demand period.

May till September is the summer season. May and September weather is not so hot as indicated above, while June, July and August are so hot, but rates are really cheap for flights and also for accommodations.

It is advised that you try the safari trips in the western desert, where treasures of beauty might be found that nobody knows about and no one thought to explore. Desert safaris are perfect all year long, except it gets cold through winter, meaning from end of November till end of February.

Wishing all a nice trip!

The best activity is by far boarding a Nile Cruise between Luxor and Aswan or Vice Versa. Witness the beauty of Egypt from a hot balloon or a plane and try all the delicious Egyptian cuisines and drinks plus shopping in old Cairo. Explore the allure and wonders of the red sea in the magical city resorts of Egypt like Hurghada and many more by diving and snorkeling in the marine life or Hurghada. Behold the mesmerizing western desert by a safari trip under the heavenly Egyptian skies.

When it comes to River Nile cruises, most people know about the large cruise boats and feluccas, some people know about yachts, but few people know anything about Dahabiyas, which take their name from the Arabic word for gold: Dahab (the earliest form of this boat was golden coloured). This is rather ironic as the Dahabiya was the mode of transport, on the Nile, long before the modern day diesels, or the steamers made famous by Agatha Christie’s “Death on the Nile”.

The Dahabiya is a (usually) two-masted sailing boat that relies on wind power: it has no engines except for a generator that makes electricity. This gives it something that is in very short supply nowadays: silence! Sailing on a Dahabiya allows the sound of the river splashing against the boat on of the only sounds you will hear, along with the singing of the birds (and the diesels in the distance). You can relax and imagine yourself as one of the aristocrats or elite travellers during the days of the monarchy, or even a member of the monarchy, as this is how they used to negotiate the river. Elegance and style, that is what they were built for; four to ten cabins, fully equipped bathrooms, elaborate furnishings, and servants to do everything. Nowadays it is very similar, though more modern and with the necessities of today, with electricity, Wi-Fi, showers, etc.

The history of the Dahabiya goes back to the Pharaonic times: there are inscriptions of very similar boats in the tombs of ancient Egyptian Kings and Nobles. Famous Egyptian leaders, such as King Farouk and President Sadat, had their own Dahabiyas and the English novelist, journalist, traveller and Egyptologist, Emilia Edwards, even had a piano installed on hers. Aristocrats loved them, especially as the journey could take up to two or three months to complete, stopping at all the sights between Cairo and Abu Simbel (no Aswan High Dam in those days), with the whole trip being one of pure decadence and style.

Sadly, the end of the monarchy also signalled the end of the Dahabiya! Steam power was the rage, soon to be overtaken by gasoline and/or diesel engines. However, the Dahabiya was not forgotten, and very soon, amongst all the large cruise boats sailing up and down the River Nile, the two masts of the Dahabiya slowly started to re-emerge. Visitors were starting to realize that the peace and tranquility that they sought could be found. As well as that, the shallower draft meant that these boats could sail closer to the many islands dotted along the river, giving access to places like Gebel El Silsila; out of bounds for the heavier cruise boats. This also allows for experiences like dinner in front of the “Speos of Horemheb”: an illuminated meal that you will never forget, and all thanks to the Dahabiya’s shallower draft and smaller passenger capacity.

The other huge advantage with being able to snuggle up to these smaller islands is that the River Nile now becomes your swimming pool. You can dive and swim to your heart’s content, or sit back and watch the frolicking of others from the sands of the island.

During its journey the Dahabiya will stop to collect supplies of food, either from riverside markets, or directly from local farmers and gardeners: everything is fresh and cooked as required. Throughout the day mineral water and tea are available, as well as cups of strong Turkish coffee, karkade (hibiscus), or fresh fruit juice. You can even savour some local beer and wine.

Dress not just for the heat, but for the culture. This is a conservative, Muslim culture and should be respected accordingly. Women should refrain from wearing short shorts, see-through clothing or swimwear when on shore excursions. In mosques, for example, women and men should wear clothing that covers both their legs and upper arms.

Don’t forget bug spray, tissues, a small flashlight, a hand fan, binoculars, hand cleanser, sun screen, a hat and anti-diarrhea medicine. Take sensible walking shoes; the surfaces at the monuments can be hilly and sandy, and a lot involve steps or uneven stone flooring that date back centuries.

If you are wheelchair bound, please do not feel that, in any way, restricts your “trip of a lifetime” to Egypt. We at Luxor and Aswan Travel have researched hotels and tourist sites to find those that offer the best access for disabled people. This also applies to Nile cruises, as our three Dahabiyas are all wheelchair friendly and the crews are more than willing to help you, yet, even in the 21st century, there are still Nile cruise boats that do not truly cater for disabled people, wheelchair bound or not, something that we ensure that we do accommodate.

Sadly, however, some of the sites are inaccessible for wheelchairs: narrow passageways tending to be the biggest problem, followed by soft sand that wheelchairs just sink into, but we do endeavor to get you as close to these sites as is physically possible so that you do not miss out on anything.

Though not all vehicles, in Egypt, are primarily suited for wheelchairs, we do have access to some specially adapted vehicles which provide safety and security for them. Not all of these have ramps for access, especially as many places in Egypt do not have the space for a ramp to be safely employed, but all of our staff are on hand to physically lift the wheelchair, and user, in and out of the vehicle when required.

A List of Services We Do and Can Provide:

Booking accommodation at disabled friendly hotels, throughout Egypt
Booking disabled friendly cruise boats (all of our Dahabiyas are disabled friendly)
Advance booking of sites that require special arrangements for disabled visitors
Supply of an assistant who will push the wheelchair, carry and/or support the standing guest (if applicable) and other generally needed help, allowing the wheelchair users family and/or friends time to relax (this does carry a surcharge, prices upon request)

Locals praying in the streets in Cairo, Egypt

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

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

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

Many people seem to have the impression that Egypt is a small country, perhaps comparable with Luxembourg and/or Liechtenstein, and are genuinely amazed to find out that the train journey from Cairo to Luxor takes about 10 – 12 hours (415 miles, or 668 km), and that Abu Simbel is not just outside of Cairo: it is, in fact, 690 miles (1,111 km) south of Cairo.

In reality, Egypt has a landmass of approximately 38,6874 miles2 (1,002,000 km2) which is about 30th in the world, four times the size of the UK, three times bigger than Germany, and twice the size of France! The size misconception could maybe be explained by realizing that of its total landmass; only 3.5% is actually used for agriculture and settlements, the remaining 96.5% being desert: meaning that the habitable landmass is comparable with Moldova or Belgium!

Below is a table that shows the distances (by road and/or rail) between the major cities and sites in Egypt.

Cairo to Alexandria          178 km

Al Jizah to Port Said         173 km

Suez to Luxor                475 km

Asyut to Al Mansurah         429 km

Tanda to Al Fayyum           165 km

Zagazig to Ismailia          74 km

Aswan to Qina                 231 km

Damanhur to Al Minya          326 km

Sohag to Bani Suwayf          286 km

Shibin al Kawm to Banha        19 km

Kafr ash Shaykh to Arish       272 km

Hurghada to Damietta          501 km

Al Kharijah to Mersa Matruh    732 km

* All distances are in Km. (1 km. = 0.62 Miles)

English is studied in school all over Egypt. This is why most Egyptians, who live in the cities, speak or understand at least some English words or phrases. Fewer Egyptians can speak French, Italian, Spanish, and German; however, professionals, who work in the tourism sector, are accustomed to visitors who cannot speak Arabic and they will speak enough English and other languages to fulfill the needs of most travelers.

To enter Egypt you do require a tourist visa, which is valid for three months. This can be obtained in one of two ways:

1. By applying to the Arab Republic of Egypt Embassy, or Consulate, in your own country, or
2. At your Port of Entry into Egypt.

To apply for your visa, or to get one upon arrival, you must have a valid passport with more than six months left on it before it expires. Once purchased it is a simple matter of peeling off the backing paper and sticking the visa onto an empty page in your passport (please ensure this is done before passport control or you may be sent to the end of the queue).

PLEASE NOTE: If you are staying in a South Sinai resort for 14 days, or less, you may be exempt from requiring a visa, as long as you stay in that locale (no visits to Cairo or Luxor, for example). See full lists at the bottom of the page.

If you wish to stay for longer than three months, you can get your visa extended at the Visa Department of the Travel Documents, Immigration and Nationality Administration (TDINA), known locally as Mogamma.  This massive building can easily be found on one side of Tahrir Square in Downtown Cairo. Other major cities, in Egypt, also have offices which allow you to extend your visa:

• Alexandria: 28 Talaat Harb St. Intersection of El Falaky St., Raml Station, Alexandria
• Aswan: Corniche El Nil St., El Corniche
• Hurghada: Sharia an-Nasr, Ad-Dahar. Locally known as Gawazat
• Luxor: Khalid Ibn Walid St. opposite the Steigenberger Hotel.
• Sharm El Sheikh: The Amn Dawla office in Old Sharm El Sheikh, or El Tor passport office

To get your extended visa you will need:

1. Your passport
2. 2 passport photos
3. 2 copies of the pages in your passport that have (1) your photo and (2) your stamped entry visa, on them.

Extended visas can be purchased for one month to one year, though you may be asked why you wish to extend your stay. Remember: you are NOT allowed to work in Egypt with only a tourist visa!

Citizens of the following countries CAN get their tourist visa upon arrival:

• The USA, UK and EU member states, Australia, Canada, Croatia, Georgia, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Macedonia, Republic of Korea, Russian Federation, Serbia, and Ukraine

• Recently there has been a lot of talk about citizens of China and India being allowed to get their visas upon arrival, but there seems to be definitive answer as of yet. Therefore it is advised that any visitors from these countries check with the Arab Republic of Egypt Embassy, or Consulate, in their own country, before travelling.

Citizens of the following countries CANNOT get their tourist visa upon arrival and so have to apply via the Arab Republic of Egypt Embassy, or Consulate, in their own country:

• Iran, Tunisia, Somalia, Morocco, Algeria, Lebanon, Iraq, Palestine, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Sudan (non-residents in the UK), Djibouti, Mauritania, Comoros, Burundi, Rwanda, Liberia, Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Mali, Niger, Chad, Israel, Afghanistan, Kosovo, Moldova, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Myanmar.

Citizens of the following countries do not require a visa prior to travelling to Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba and Taba resorts, as long as they do not leave the locale. They are for a maximum of 14 days only:

• All European Union countries
• USA
• Israel (but ONLY through the Taba Border Crossing.

Citizens of all countries may obtain a Sinai resort visa on arrival at Sharm el-Sheikh, Taba, which is valid for 15 days, except for the citizens of:

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

PLEASE NOTE: It is advised that any further questions, surrounding visa availability and rules, are directed to the Arab Republic of Egypt Embassy, or Consulate, in your own country.

The Major Ports of Entry to Egypt

Airports:

• Alexandria, Borg El Arab International Airport
• Alexandria, El Nouzha (or El Nozha) International Airport
• Aswan International Airport (or Daraw Airport)
• Cairo International Airport
• Hurghada International Airport
• Luxor International Airport
• Marsa Alam International Airport
• Sharm El Sheikh International Airport

Sea Harbours:

• Alexandria, Mediterranean
• Damietta, Mediterranean
• Port Said, Mediterranean
• Nuweiba, Gulf of Aqaba
• Hurghada, Red Sea
• Safaga, Red Sea
• Sharm El Sheikh, Red Sea
• Suez, Red Sea/Gulf of Suez

Overland Border Posts:

• Salloum: North-western border – Libya
• Rafah: North-eastern border – Gaza
• Taba: Eastern border – Israel

Egypt’s currency is known as the Egyptian Pound (LE for short, which means livre egyptienne: French for Egyptian Pound). One Egyptian Pound is divided into 100 piastres, coinage of which is available in 25, 50, and 100 piastres (1LE). 5, 10, and 20 piastres are still in circulation, but it is very rare to see them nowadays. Banknotes are available in 5 LE, 10 LE, 20 LE, 50 LE, 100 LE, and 200LE denominations, and you can still come across the rare sight of 25 and 50 piastre notes as well as 1LE.

As well as the local currency, the US Dollar ($), Pound Sterling (£), and Euro (€) are all accepted in most places, though transactions are much far better done by using LE (exchange rates in Egypt tend to be better than in the home countries of the aforementioned currencies).

ATM’s are plentiful throughout the country, as are the plethora of banks, the vast majority of the former issuing only Egyptian currency. After many years of struggle, Egypt is now capable of accepting Credit and Debit cards: once it was either cash, or bank wire transfer, which caused many problems for various institutes in the country: especially tourism!

Travellers’ cheques can still be used, but the amount of places that accept them nowadays is diminishing very quickly, so it is worthwhile forgetting about getting a supply of them before travel: even some banks refuse to exchange them now.

One word of warning! When negotiating with anyone, be it in a souq, a taxi, a horse drawn carriage (caleche), or in a shop, ENSURE you let the other person know you are dealing in Egyptian Pounds: many times tourists are scammed by thinking they have a bargain, only to find out the currency required is $, £, or €.

Egyptian food has been influenced throughout history, particularly by its neighbours from the Middle East, Persians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, and Ottomans first influenced Egyptian cuisine thousands of years ago. More recently, the foods of other Arabic people in the Middle East such as the Lebanese, Palestinians, Syrians, as well as some foods from Europe, have affected the Egyptian diet. However, Egyptian cuisine maintains its uniqueness. After thousands of years, rice and bread remain staple foods, and molokhiyya (a spinach-like vegetable) and fuul (cooked, creamy fava beans), a national dish, are nearly as popular as long ago.
When holidaying in Luxor don’t be scared to venture into a local restaurant and try some of the delicious food.

In conjunction with this list please also see the traveller article on common Arabic words and phrases

WHAT MIGHT BE ON THE MENU?

Shurbit firakh – Chicken soup

Shurbit ‘adas – Lentil soup

Shurbit khudaar – Vegetable soup

Fuul – Fava beans served with oil and lemon, sometimes also with onions, meat, eggs or tomato sauce

Taamiya (Falafel) – balls of deep-fried mashed chickpeas and spices

Shawarma – Slivers of pressed, spit-roasted lamb, chicken or beef served in pitta bread

Tahina – Sesame-seed paste mixed with spices, garlic and lemon, eaten with pitta bread

Babaghanoug – Paste of aubergines mashed with tahina

Kushari – Mixture of noodles, lentils and rice, topped with fried onions and a spicy tomato sauce

Hawawshi – Minced meat with added spices and cooked in pitta bread.

Shakshouka – Chopped meat and tomato sauce, cooked with an egg on top

Makarona – Macaroni “cake” baked in a white sauce or mincemeat gravy

Mahshi – Literally “stuffed”, variety of vegetables (peppers, tomatoes, aubergines, courgettes) filled with mincemeat and/or rice, herbs and pine nuts

Wara einab – Vine leaves filled as above and flavoured with lemon juice

Fiteer- A pancake/pizza made of layers of flaky filo pastry with sweet or savoury fillings

Kofta – Mincemeat flavoured with spices and onions, grilled on a skewer

Molukhiyya – Jew’s mallow, a leafy vegetable stewed with meat (often Rabbit) or chicken broth and garlic

Firakh – Chicken grilled or stewed and served with vegetables

Fatta – Mutton or chicken stew, cooked with bread

Hamam mashwi – Grilled pigeon

Kibda – Liver

Samak mashwi – Grilled fish served with salad, bread and dips

Tagen – Meat, Fish or Vegetables cooked in a spicy tomato sauce.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Early History
Ancient Egypt has been the focus of much fascination, investigation, speculation and intrigue. It’s hard to escape the education system without having studied Ancient Egypt in some way. Drawn in by the mighty pyramids, mysterious hieroglyphics, distinct burial rituals and animal-headed gods – scholars, students, historians and travellers are all amazed by this civilisation which has endured cycles of dynastic rule, invasion and natural disasters.
Through key archaeological finds, historians have been able to unravel some of the mysteries of this great land. What is known is that the daily life of the average Egyptian usually involved working in agriculture with the waters of the Nile providing fertile ground for planting of crops. Egyptians usually lived in modest homes with children and domestic pets. Professions were usually inherited – so if your father was a farmer, then so were you.

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

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

You can travel to Egypt during the month of Ramadan. Ramadan falls in the 9th month of the Islamic calendar, which is why it changes every year in the Gregorian calendar (also known as the Western or Christian calendar), moving forward approximately 11 days per annum. It commemorates when Allah (Arabic for God) first started to reveal the passages of the Holy Qur’an to the prophet Mohammed, via the angel Gabriel.

During this month all Muslims are expected to fast from daybreak until sunset, refraining from activities such as eating, drinking, smoking and sexual deeds. Some of the more devout Muslims will not even swallow their own saliva.

Once the sun has set the fasting ends with large meals known as Iftar. This is usually an event for the whole family and close friends, but outsiders are often invited to take part in the celebrations. At the end of the month, Ramadan’s completion is celebrated with a three day festival known as “Eid El Fitr” (the festival of breaking the fast).

One of the main reasons that Muslims fast is because it gives them an appreciation of being poor, giving compassion to those who are not as well off. Fasting is also a good way of achieving self-control over the body: resisting the natural urges makes it easier to resist non-natural ones (alcohol and drugs for example).

Many travellers are shocked when they return back home from their holidays to discover a hefty mobile phone bill to pay. What to do with your mobile phone when you go on holiday?

With the new technology you can still use your mobile phone and pay minimum fees whilst abroad. But firstly let’s underline that a mobile phone device is nowadays a combination of a telephone and a minicomputer at the same time. You can use it for mobile communication and Internet search, Email messages etc.

Secondly, let’s mention the two most important connection systems available and then choose the one that is more suitable: Mobile Network and Wi-Fi.

What is a Mobile Network?
It’s a system that allows a mobile phone to retrieve and send data through a mobile phone operator (Orange, Vodaphone etc). This is the regular system that we use to answer, make mobile calls or use the Internet on our mobile devices whilst at home. The use of this connection system whilst abroad is VERY expensive.

What is Wi-Fi?
It’s a wireless system that allows a personal computer, mobile phone etc. to connect to the Internet through a LOCAL internet connection device implemented in a hotel, restaurant, coffee shop etc. Nowadays Wi-Fi systems are widely spread. Most people have it at home as well. In some places it’s free to use a Wi-Fi, even in Egypt. You only need a user name and a password to connect.

As a conclusion you can either use a Wi-Fi connection or a Mobile Network to operate your mobile phone. When you are at home you can use the two connections simultaneously without paying high extra charges. However the problem occurs when you go on holiday.

What to do with your mobile phone when you go on holiday?

1. Turn off the use of Mobile Networks (data roaming). By doing so you:
– Disable all data traffic through a Mobile Network.
– Disable all automatic e-mail alerts, Facebook alerts, web browsing etc., but still allows incoming and outgoing international calls.

2. Connect your mobile phone to a local Wi-Fi system. Some hotels and other places offer this service free (especially in a hotel lobby), or they charge on hourly/daily basis (5- 10 USD per day in Egypt), regardless the amount of data used.
With a local Wi-Fi system you can:

– Send or receive as many E-mail messages as you desire.
– Search the internet continuously.
– Use your FaceBook, TripAdvisor and other networks.
– Communicate with your family/friends at home using applications such as Skype (many mobile phones support Skype).
– Play your Apps.

3. Buy a local SIM card to use for your local communication with guides, drivers etc. Your family/friends can also reach you. In Egypt it costs about 100 – 150 EGP to buy a SIM card, including call units. Note that if your phone is blocked by your operator at home then you can’t change the SIM card, but you can still use a Wi-Fi. Ask your home operator. If your new phone is blocked then use an old mobile phone device that you might still have to make local calls.

Egypt: 10 commandments for a safe trip

1. TOURIST SAFETY & SECURITY
You are the one responsible for your own safety and security. Use your common sense and don’t take for granted that accidents don’t happen to you!

After Egypt’s revolution many questions have been raised about the tourist safety in the country. Generally speaking, Egypt is still a safe country but nobody can predict how the situation will develop in the near future. It’s important to consult the travel advisory of your home country before you leave. While in Egypt, stay away from demonstrations and large gatherings of people.

2. TRAVEL INSURANCE
Get your own travel and medical insurance. Make your own assessment of your plans, activities, belongings, and the practice of extreme sports such as professional diving etc. Then ask your insurance company to provide you with the right insurance. Check your travel insurance carefully. A wise man said:” If you can’t afford to buy a good insurance, you really can’t afford to travel at all”.

It’s important to note that according to the international diving safety regulations you should allow a minimum gap of 24 hours between when your final dive ends and your flight.

3. ETHICAL CONDUCT
What is acceptable in your country might not be tolerable in other societies. Take into consideration that Egypt is an Islamic country and the society is conservative. Most Egyptian’s don’t drink alcohol. Most Egyptian men don’t walk on the street wearing shorts. Most Egyptian Muslim women wear headscarves and keep their neck, ankles and wrists covered. Display of affection in public is intolerable. As a visitor, you should respect those differences and try to behave accordingly. You don’t want to offend the very people you’re visiting!

4. VISA
Most nationalities (not all) can obtain a tourist entry visa at any of the major ports of entry to Egypt. The visa sticker costs 25 USD. Check with your travel company or with the nearest Egyptian consulate/embassy for specific details and regulations relevant to your nationality.

5. IMPORTANT CONTACTS
Keep important contact details within reach. Useful contacts include those of tourist police, hospitals, emergencies, hotels, your embassy, insurance company, etc.

It has recently become a common practice to have a contact number marked as ICE (In case of emergency). Save all those contacts on your mobile phone AND write them on a piece of paper that you can keep together with other important travel documents.

6. CASH AND CREDIT CARDS
Do you still remember the story of all the eggs in one basket? Never store all your money cash and credit card(s) in one pocket. Spread them between two or three different places to minimize the chocking result of theft. Consider using safe boxes provided by hotels.

It’s also recommended to have more than one credit card in case of theft or card deactivation. Make sure that all your cards will actually work abroad. Besides, inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any card deactivation. Some banks may deactivate credit cards if the frequency of use increases suddenly abroad. Note that in case of theft, it’s always easy to call the bank and deactivate a card.

7. IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS
Scan your travel and other important documents into electronic copies. Important documents include your passport, air ticket, travel insurance, driver’s license etc. Attach those copies to an Email message and send them to your Email address. A HOTMAIL, YAHOO or any other web-based Email system could be useful for this purpose. In case of theft, you’ll always be able to access those documents in your Email box from any computer that has access to the Internet.

Alternatively, save those copies on a small USB memory stick that you can wear around your neck, or keep copies with your family/friends at home, or take pictures of your important documents with your smart mobile phone and keep those pictures in a special folder in your mobile phone album.

8. HYGIENE
It’s not uncommon that visitors to Egypt get upset stomachs or other sicknesses from eating food. That’s due to many reasons mainly lack of hygiene. Here are some pieces of advice that might help you in preventing stomach problems. Most importantly, trust your instincts:

– Eat at restaurants that look and feel clean.
– Wash your hands often or use antibacterial hand cleaner especially after touching money or before eating.
– Avoid drinking tap water or adding ice to your drink.
– Don’t drink directly from a can. If so, wash the can well before drinking and use a straw.

– Avoid eating food bought from stalls at the side of the road, ie. burgers, and local delicacies.

9. SWIMMING
Is it safe to swim in the Nile? Generally speaking, the answer is No, especially in Cairo. The Nile is polluted by many sources mainly raw sewage from cruise ships and villages, all sorts of garbage, and dead animals. However some tourists do swim in Upper Egypt, especially Aswan where the Nile water is considered to be cleaner. If you decide to take a swim after all, then it would be at your own risk.

10. SUN
Egypt is known as The Land of the Sun. In Upper Egypt, especially Aswan, the sun shines 365 days a year and it’s considered one of the driest places. Be aware and use sun cream with adequate SPF to avoid skin burn. It does happen often that tourists get sun burns. Last but not least, drink enough water to avoid dehydration.

ENJOY YOUR TRIP.

Archaeological Sites and Museums – Ticket’s Prices 2020/2021

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