Most Complete Egypt Travel Guide 2026-2027 – Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting

Egypt Overview & Key Facts

Brief History of Egypt

Egypt's history spans over 5,000 years, from the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt around 3100 BCE through Pharaonic, Ptolemaic, Roman, Byzantine, Arab, Ottoman, and modern periods. The Pyramids of Giza, built around 2580–2560 BCE, remain one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Arab conquest in 639–642 CE brought Islam and Arabic culture, while Ottoman and later European influence shaped the modern state. This rich historical tapestry creates a fascinating backdrop for modern travelers exploring the country's archaeological treasures and cultural sites.

Independence & National Identity

• Independence date: February 28, 1922 (from Britain).
• Former colonial power: Britain (de facto after 1882).
• National symbols & identity.

Egypt gained full independence after the 1952 revolution that ended the monarchy and established the modern republic. The country's national identity centers on Arab and Islamic values while celebrating its ancient Pharaonic heritage. The national flag features red, white, and black stripes with the Eagle of Saladin, symbolizing Arab unity and the struggle for independence.

Government System & Current Leadership

• Type of government: Presidential Republic
• Current president: Abdel Fattah el-Sisi
• Notes on political stability

Egypt operates as a presidential republic with a strong executive branch. President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has served since 2014 and was re-elected in 2023. The country has experienced periods of political transition, but tourism infrastructure remains well-protected and stable.

Population, Ethnic Groups & Languages

• Population: 113 million (2025 projection).
• Major ethnic groups: Egyptians (98%), Nubians, Berbers.
• Official language(s): Arabic.
• Additional languages commonly spoken.

English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and among younger generations. French and German are also common in the tourism sector. In Upper Egypt and Nubian villages, local dialects and Nubian languages persist.

Main Religions & Cultural Identity

Islam is the state religion, with approximately 90% Sunni Muslim population and 10% Coptic Christian. Small Jewish and other communities exist. Islamic and Christian values influence daily life, social customs, and cultural practices. Visitors should respect religious observances, particularly during Ramadan, and dress modestly when visiting mosques or churches.

Geography & Natural Landscape

Egypt features the Nile River Valley and Delta, vast Western and Eastern Deserts, the Sinai Peninsula, and extensive Mediterranean and Red Sea coastlines. The Nile provides the only fertile land in an otherwise arid country, while the Red Sea coast offers world-class coral reefs and diving opportunities.

Economy & Tourism Highlights

Egypt's economy relies heavily on tourism, Suez Canal revenues, remittances, and natural gas. Tourism has rebounded strongly post-pandemic with record visitor numbers in 2024–2025. The government continues major infrastructure projects including the New Administrative Capital and expanded museum facilities.

What Egypt Is Known For

• UNESCO World Heritage sites including Pyramids of Giza, Ancient Thebes, Abu Simbel, Islamic Cairo
• World-class diving and coral reefs in the Red Sea
• Nile River cruises and ancient temple complexes

Visa & Entry Requirements in Egypt

Most international visitors can obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an e-Visa online, making Egypt one of the easiest countries in the region to enter. The visa on arrival costs $25 USD and is valid for 30 days.

Do You Need a Visa?

Citizens of 74 countries can get visa on arrival at any Egyptian airport or seaport. Others can apply for e-Visa online or at Egyptian embassies. Sinai-only resort stamp (free) is available for Red Sea destinations if staying within South Sinai only.

Visa Application Options in Egypt

• Visa on arrival (most common)
• e-Visa online (recommended)
• Embassy application

The e-Visa system is fast and reliable, with approval usually within 3–7 days.

Passport Validity & Entry Documents

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from arrival date with 2 blank pages. Return/onward ticket may be requested.

Customs Rules & Prohibited Items

Drones require special permits. Antiquities export strictly prohibited. Alcohol allowance: 1 liter spirits + 2 liters wine or 48 beers. Currency declaration required over $10,000 equivalent.

Safety & Security Information in Egypt

Tourist areas are among the safest in the region with heavy police presence and tourism protection units. North Sinai and remote desert borders should be avoided.

Is Egypt Safe for Tourists?

Yes – Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Aswan, Red Sea resorts, and Alexandria are very safe with dedicated tourist police. Millions visit annually without incident.

Recommended Safety Tips when in Egypt

Use registered taxis or Uber/Careem, avoid unofficial guides, follow local dress codes, stay hydrated, and use reputable tour operators for Nile cruises and desert trips.

Safe Areas vs. Areas to Avoid in Egypt

All main tourist areas are safe. Avoid North Sinai (except Sharm El Sheikh resort area) and remote Western Desert border areas.

Emergency Numbers & Tourist Police in Egypt

• Police: 122
• Tourist Police: 126
• Ambulance: 123
• Fire: 180

Health Requirements & Vaccinations in Egypt

No mandatory vaccinations except yellow fever certificate if arriving from endemic countries.

Mandatory Vaccinations in Egypt

Yellow fever certificate required only from affected countries.

Recommended Vaccinations in Egypt

Hepatitis A, Typhoid, routine vaccines. Rabies pre-exposure if planning extended rural travel.

Malaria & Other Risks

No malaria in tourist areas. Main risks: heat exhaustion, traveler’s diarrhea, and occasional schistosomiasis (avoid freshwater swimming except controlled pools).

Travel Insurance Recommendations in Egypt

Strongly recommended covering medical evacuation, trip cancellation, and adventure activities (diving, quad biking).

Best Time to Visit in Egypt

October to April offers the most comfortable temperatures (20–28°C). Shoulder months (Oct/Nov & Mar/Apr) provide the best combination of weather and fewer crowds.

Weather by Season

Winter (Dec–Feb): 18–23°C, perfect for temple visits. Summer (Jun–Aug): 35–45°C in Luxor/Aswan, still pleasant at Red Sea (30–35°C with sea breeze).

When to Visit Egypt for Best Experiences

• Temple visits: October–April
• Diving: Year-round (best visibility April–November)
• Nile cruises: October–April
• Budget travel: May–September

Weather & Climate Overview in Egypt

Hot desert climate with very low rainfall. Coastal areas have Mediterranean influence with higher humidity.

Temperature Ranges

Cairo: 18–35°C year-round. Luxor/Aswan: 22–42°C. Red Sea coast: 23–35°C with cooling sea breezes.

Rainy & Dry Seasons in Egypt

Almost no rain except occasional winter showers in Alexandria/Cairo (Dec–Mar).

What to Wear Based on the Weather

Light cotton clothing, sun hat, sunglasses, comfortable walking sandals/shoes. Long sleeves/pants and scarf for temple visits and sun protection.

Main Currency, Costs & Budgeting in Egypt

Egyptian Pound (EGP). Excellent value destination with low costs once arrived.

Local Currency Information

Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 EGP. ATMs widespread. Cards accepted in hotels and larger establishments.

Average Travel Costs in Egypt

Budget: $60–100/day; Mid-range: $120–200/day; Luxury Nile cruise + Red Sea: $250–450/day.

Using ATMs, Cards & Mobile Money in Egypt

ATMs everywhere. Vodafone Cash and mobile wallets increasingly accepted.

Tipping Guidelines in Egypt

“Baksheesh” culture: 10–20 EGP for small services, 10% in restaurants, $5–10/day for guides/drivers.

Transportation & Getting Around in Egypt

Excellent tourist transport network with domestic flights, trains, private drivers, and Nile cruises.

Airport Transfers

Uber/Careem available in Cairo. Private transfers recommended for Luxor/Aswan.

Local Transport Options in Egypt

Uber/Careem, metro in Cairo, micro-buses, felucca sailing, horse carriages in Luxor.

Egypt Domestic Flights

EgyptAir and low-cost carriers connect Cairo with Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, Sharm multiple times daily.

Car Rentals & Road Conditions in Egypt

Not recommended for foreigners. Private driver with car much safer and common.

Accommodation Options available in Egypt

Everything from budget hostels to 5-star international chains and luxury Nile cruise ships.

Types of Accommodations in Egypt

Hotels, Nile cruise ships, Red Sea resorts, eco-lodges, boutique riads in Cairo.

Budget vs. Mid-Range vs. Luxury

Budget $20–50, Mid-range $60–150, Luxury $200–800+ per night.

Best Areas to Stay in Egypt

Giza (Pyramids view), Zamalek/Garden City (Cairo), West Bank (Luxor), Corniche (Aswan), resort strips (Hurghada/Sharm).

Essential Packing Guide when Visiting Egypt

Light clothing, sun protection, modest attire for temples, reef-safe sunscreen, universal adapter (Type C/F).

Language & Communication in Egypt

Arabic official, English widely spoken in tourism. Useful phrases: “Salaam alaikum” (peace be upon you), “Shukran” (thank you).

SIM Cards & Mobile Data used in Egypt

Vodafone, Orange, Etisalat, WE – available at airport on arrival.

Culture & Etiquette in Egypt

Conservative dress, remove shoes in mosques, use right hand for eating/greetings, generous hospitality culture.

Food, Water & Dining in Egypt

Koshari, ful medames, molokhia, fresh seafood on coast. Bottled water essential.

Top Attractions & Things to Do in Egypt

Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, Egyptian Museum/Grand Egyptian Museum, Valley of the Kings, Karnak & Luxor Temples, Abu Simbel, Nile cruises, Red Sea diving/snorkeling, Islamic Cairo, Coptic Cairo.

Egyptian Electrical System Information

220–240V, 50Hz, European Type C/F plugs.

Local Laws & Regulations of Egypt

No photography of military/police, drone permits required, respect Ramadan fasting hours.

Final Travel Tips for Visitors in Egypt

Book Nile cruises and Abu Simbel in advance, use licensed guides, carry small change for baksheesh, drink bottled water, apply sunscreen constantly.

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