Heading to Egypt? We share tips on how to plan a trip to Egypt including when to visit, where to go and things you need to know.
Why you should visit Egypt?
Egypt is home to the famous Pyramids of Giza but also many incredible temples and history across every area of the country. Plus, food in Egypt is unique to the country and a must-try. Of course, you also have the River Nile; another famous tourist attraction and iconic river known around the world.
Best time to visit Egypt
Visiting Egypt in the Spring is the best time to visit the country. The weather is warm but pleasant, the attractions aren’t too crowded and rates are slightly cheaper too.
Avoid visiting during Ramadan and during the months of June and August; the temperature in Egypt during the summer is too hot to see the attractions properly and they are often very busy at this time too.
High season in Egypt is December to February; so expect higher prices and busier attractions. Head here in November or March to get cheaper rates.
Things to know before you visit Egypt
- Water – You can use the tap water to brush your teeth but you won’t want to drink it; it is heavily chlorinated. Instead, stick to bottled water that costs as little as 5 EGP ($0.30).
- Hydration – On a similar note, keep hydrated. It gets incredibly hot in the desert so make sure to drink plenty of water and we recommend bringing electrolyte tablets to give you that extra boost during your visit to Egypt.
- Currency – The currency in Egypt is the Egyptian pound, written £E or LE. They are then divided into piastres (like cents). Make sure to recognise the different between these notes before you visit the country.
- Expect to pay – Make sure to bring plenty of change with you, especially when visiting the popular attractions. There are many opportunities to take photos with camels or in front of various temples but most animal owners will ask for payment if you do try to get a photo.
- Comfortable Clothing –
When in Egypt, you are in the desert! It will be extremely hot. Sunburn, dehydration, and heat exhaustion are common, particularly in the upper parts of Egypt. When the sweat evaporates, you will feel dehydrated. Carry a bottle of water with you. Also, do not forget to wear loose clothes that are made of cotton. This will make your tour much easier.
- Avoid the Crowds –
If you do not like crowds, you can visit the pyramids in the second half of the day when there are fewer crowds. The majority of tourists see the pyramid and then move towards the Khan el-Khalili and Egyptian museum. You can go to the museum after 11-12 pm when the major crowd has finished seeing this beauty.
- Shop at Khan el-Khalili – Do not get enticed by each and everything that you see. The beauty of Egypt will compel you to buy things but save your money to shop at Khan el-Khalili. There is a wide assortment of items available at reasonable rates. The vendors here are humble which will make your shopping experience enjoyable and relaxing.
Getting a Visa in Egypt
An Egypt e-Visa is an electronic entry permit that you can apply for online just seven days prior to travel. The government of Egypt issues it to eligible countries.
The best part of the e-Visa is getting one in a short time without spending a lot of money, unlike those time-consuming procedures associated with the traditional Embassy visas.
Moreover, an Egyptian e-Visa comes with two options: you can either go for a single-entry permit or a multiple-entry permit. Whichever you choose, you can use both for tourism or business purposes.
Types of Egypt e-Visa
There are two different types of e-Visa; choose the one that best matches your travel needs.
Single Entry e-Visa
The single e-Visa for 30 days remains valid for 90 days from the date of issue. You are allowed to visit Egypt one time during your validity period for both work or tourism purposes.
Multiple Entry e-Visa
Thirty days multiple Egypt e-Visa allows you to stay in Egypt for six months from the date of issuing. The multiple e-Visa expires after six months. During your validity period, you are allowed to visit Egypt at any time and stay for 30 days.
Additionally, you can enter and exit the country multiple times within a six-month validity period.
Best places to visit in Egypt
- Pyramids of Giza, Cairo – Of course, the pyramids are number 1 on our best place to visit in Egypt list. This is the last surviving of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and one of the most famous landmarks in the world. These memorials to the dead kings are still as incredible today as they were when built and should not be missed.
- The Valley of the Kings, Luxor – The town of Luxor is home to many famous sites and the Valley of the Kings is a must visit during your time in Egypt.
- Abu Simbel – The Ramses II’s great temple is a special kind of temple in Egypt. At the entrance, you will find colossal guards standing tall whilst the inside of the pyramid is decorated with impressive wall paintings.
- Alexandria – This is the most European style city in Egypt whilst also rich in history. The city was founded by Alexander the Great, was home to Cleopatra and is now a seaside city from days-gone-by.
- Aswan – This quiet town on the curves of the nile is a gorgeous place to soak in the atmosphere and relax. Take a ferry to Elephantine Island, explore the colourful streets of Nubian Villages or head to one of the many riverboat restaurants and drive along the Nile.
- Siwa Oasis – Siwa is a quiet oasis; a massive contrast to the bustling cities in Egypt. With palm plantations, water springs and endless ancient mud-brick buildings, there are plenty of picturesque spots around the city to explore.
- Islamic Cairo – Also known as historic Cairo or medieval Cairo, this area of the city is crammed with ancient buildings dotted around the walled city. Head to one of the many mosques, shrines, mausoleums, walls, gates and markets in the area to get an insight into ancient Egypt.
- White Desert – This natural wonder is a quirky, unique site in Egypt. There are small chalk mountains protruding from the white desert, creating a landscape that almost looks like a sci-fi movie.
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