Complete Travel Guide to Egypt

Cairo International Airport serves as Egypt's primary gateway, with direct flights from major cities worldwide including London, Paris, Dubai, and New York. EgyptAir, the national carrier, offers extensive connections, while international airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Lufthansa provide competitive alternatives. Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh airports cater primarily to Red Sea resort destinations, with charter flights from Europe particularly popular during winter months.

Visa requirements vary by nationality, with many visitors able to obtain a tourist visa on arrival for $25 USD, valid for 30 days. Alternatively, e-visas can be purchased online in advance. Ensure your passport has at least six months validity remaining. Overland entry is possible from Sudan, though regional stability should be carefully monitored. The Taba border crossing with Israel/Palestine operates daily, while the Rafah crossing with Gaza remains subject to political considerations.

Egypt's optimal visiting season runs from October through April, when temperatures are mild and comfortable for sightseeing. Winter months (December-February) offer perfect conditions with daytime temperatures around 20-25°C (68-77°F), though evenings can be surprisingly cool, especially in desert areas. This peak season coincides with higher accommodation prices and larger crowds at major attractions.

Summer (May-September) brings intense heat, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F), particularly in Upper Egypt around Luxor and Aswan. However, this period offers significant cost savings and fewer tourists. Coastal areas like Alexandria and the Red Sea resorts remain more tolerable due to sea breezes. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) provide excellent compromise periods with moderate temperatures and manageable crowds. Ramadan, which shifts annually, affects opening hours and dining options, though it offers unique cultural experiences for respectful visitors.

Cairo offers accommodation ranging from luxury international chains like Four Seasons and Marriott to characterful boutique properties in Islamic Cairo and downtown areas. The Zamalek district provides upscale options with Nile views, while Downtown Cairo offers budget-friendly hostels and mid-range hotels with historic charm. For proximity to the Pyramids, consider Giza's resort-style hotels with pyramid views.

Luxor's east bank houses most hotels, from the legendary Old Winter Palace to modern chains and traditional Nile-view properties. West bank options provide closer access to Valley of the Kings but fewer amenities. Aswan's Nile-front hotels offer stunning sunset views, with the Old Cataract Hotel representing colonial grandeur. Red Sea destinations feature all-inclusive resorts in Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh, perfect for diving and beach relaxation. Alexandria's historic hotels capture Mediterranean charm, while desert camps near Siwa Oasis provide authentic Saharan experiences under star-filled skies.

The Giza Pyramid Complex, including the Great Pyramid and Sphinx, remains Egypt's most iconic experience. Early morning visits avoid crowds and harsh light, while the evening Sound and Light show adds dramatic flair. Luxor's Valley of the Kings houses elaborate pharaonic tombs, with Tutankhamun's tomb requiring separate admission. The magnificent Karnak Temple Complex showcases 2,000 years of construction, best explored during golden hour.

Nile cruises between Luxor and Aswan offer leisurely temple visits while enjoying river life. Felucca sailing provides intimate Nile experiences, particularly beautiful around Aswan's granite islands. Abu Simbel's colossal temples require early morning flights or overnight stays but rank among humanity's greatest achievements. The Red Sea offers world-class diving, with Ras Mohammed National Park and Brother Islands featuring pristine coral reefs. Desert adventures include white desert camping near Farafra, Siwa Oasis exploration, and Sinai mountain trekking. Islamic Cairo's medieval streets and Khan El Khalili bazaar provide authentic cultural immersion away from ancient sites.

Egyptian cuisine reflects Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and African influences, with ful medames (fava bean stew) serving as the national breakfast dish. Koshari, a hearty mix of rice, lentils, pasta, and spiced tomato sauce, represents Egypt's beloved street food. Mahshi (stuffed vegetables) and molokhia (jute leaf soup) showcase home-cooking traditions, while grilled meats like kebab and kofta satisfy carnivorous appetites.

Tea culture dominates Egyptian social life, with strong black tea served in small glasses throughout the day. Arabic coffee, particularly in Bedouin settings, follows elaborate preparation rituals. Fresh fruit juices, especially sugar cane, mango, and guava, provide refreshing relief from desert heat. While Egypt produces wine in limited quantities, imported alcohol is available in hotels and licensed establishments. Ramadan introduces special foods like konafa and qatayef desserts. Restaurant tipping (10-15%) is customary, though street food vendors operate on fixed pricing. Always drink bottled water and exercise caution with raw vegetables and unpeeled fruits.

Egyptian pounds (EGP) remain the primary currency, though US dollars and euros are widely accepted at tourist establishments. ATMs are readily available in cities, but cash remains king, especially for tips, transportation, and small purchases. Photography fees apply at many archaeological sites, with separate charges for tomb interiors. Respect local customs by dressing modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites – covering shoulders and knees is essential.

Bargaining is expected in markets and with unofficial tour guides, starting at roughly one-third of the asking price. Official tourist police, identifiable by their armbands, provide assistance at major attractions. Learn basic Arabic phrases for enhanced interactions, though English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Persistent vendors and unofficial guides require firm but polite refusal. Travel insurance should cover medical evacuation, as specialized treatment may require transfer to Cairo or abroad. Register with your embassy and maintain copies of important documents. Respect photography restrictions, especially around military installations and bridges.