Image: Pompey's Pillar is a Roman triumphal column in Alexandria, Egypt, and the largest of its type constructed outside the imperial capitals of Rome and Constantinople. It is one of the largest monolithic columns ever erected. (Photo Courtesy of iStock / Getty Images Plus/MarcPo)
Image: Pompey's Pillar is a Roman triumphal column in Alexandria, Egypt, and the largest of its type constructed outside the imperial capitals of Rome and Constantinople. It is one of the largest monolithic columns ever erected. (Photo Courtesy of iStock / Getty Images Plus/MarcPo)
Egypt Today: December 12, 12:43 PM 63°F Clear Sky

Egypt Travel Guide 

In terms of the earliest known organized government, Egypt is the second-oldest country in the world. It is bordered in the north by the Mediterranean Sea and the Gulf of Suez, the Gulf of Aqaba, and the Red Sea to the east. 

Needless to say, this land of mystery and sand in the northeastern corner of the African continent holds many secrets to humanity’s distant past. But it also holds the key to the future - your future - when you book a tour of this exotic land.

You’ll find taxi cabs in Egypt, but we were especially pleased that rideshare services like Uber are also available in the main centers. We found them much more affordable than the local taxis, especially in Cairo. 

Low-lying mountains and deserts are the main features of southern Egypt. While the desert also predominates to the east and west, Northern Egypt features wide valleys around the Nile. You may find a 4x4 hire useful for getting around.

Egypt has a reliable public transport system. And with such spectacular scenery dotted with iconic palm trees, any journey through the Nile Valley becomes a sensational experience. The Cairo Metro system is the most efficient form of local transport. 

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Top Things To Do

Treasures of Egypt
Does hearing the name Egypt conjure images of pyramids, desert sands, and camel rides in your mind? While those are all accurate, this ancient land has far more to offer those who love to travel with a sense of adventure. With these top things in Egypt, you’ll be inspired to embark on your journey into this Northern African world of wonder.

Important Things To Know

Currency

The Egyptian Pound is used in Egypt. 

National Languages

The official language is Arabic. Egyptian Colloquial Arabic is the predominant dialect, also known as Masri. This is the common vernacular of the Egyptian people.

Because of its history as a British colony, English is widely spoken, particularly in tourist centers. We found that it was easy to find tour guides fluent in English.

Climate And Weather

The climate is dry and hot. Deserts dominate the landscapes. The winter season (November to January) is mild with coastal rainfall. 

Summers are hot and dry, from May through September. Temperatures vary widely between the seasons, driven by the prevailing winds.


Pyramids, Giza, Egypt, A&S Signature Journeys, camels

Two camels rest in front of the Pyramids at Giza. (photo via A&S Signature Journeys) (Photo Credit: (photo via A&S Signature Journeys))

Dress Code

Egypt is a Muslim country. As such, tourists often wonder about a possible dress code when touring Egypt. It is best to abide by the conservative dress code of the locals. This is more applicable to women travelers. In Cairo especially, going bare-shouldered or bare-legged may be frowned upon. 

While women tourists are not required to wear hijab or any other head covering, they will have to wear a headscarf if visiting a mosque while sightseeing.

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When To Visit Egypt

Cairo, Egypt.
Cairo, Egypt. (photo via MSC Cruises Media)

The best time to visit Egypt is October through April, thanks to cooler temperatures. However, you’ll still bask in the sun at this time. 

We recommend this time of year for tourists unused to blazing African heat. It will allow you to explore outdoor attractions like the Pyramids more comfortably.

Where To Stay

Viking named its newest river ship, the Viking Osiris, with a celebration in Luxor, Egypt.
Viking named its newest river ship, the Viking Osiris, with a celebration in Luxor, Egypt. (photo via Viking Cruises Media)

  • The resort town of Hurghada on the edge of the Red Sea is one of our top picks. But be warned, the ride there is an adventure all of its own. Our bus from Cairo took 6 hours and was a bumpy ride!
    • Alexandria is the second-largest city, situated on the Mediterranean’s edge. We loved the abundance of historical sites here. Established by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, this city was the seat of many ancient rulers until Roman occupation. 
    • Cairo, the nation’s capital, has many attractions of its own. The city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural significance. You’ll enjoy a luxurious stay in any of the 5-star hotels. The Nile river is one of Cairo’s main attractions, but it is not advised to swim in it.

     

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Laurence Pinckney

Laurence Pinckney

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Agent At Home

Helping leisure selling travel agents successfully manage their at-home business.

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Agent Specialization: Group Travel

Laurence Pinckney

Laurence Pinckney

CEO of Zenbiz Travel, LLC

About Me