Travel Tips
Egypt
The pyramids, the temples of the Nile and the Red Sea make Egypt a journey through thousands of years of history.
- Capital
- Cairo
- Currency
- Egyptian pound (EGP)
- Language
- Arabic
- Best overall
- October to April
- Emergency
- Police 122, ambulance 123, fire 180
- Electricity
- 220V, plug types C and F
Top Destinations
Many visitors can get an e-visa or a visa on arrival, depending on passport. Use only the official Egyptian e-visa website. Passport validity rules vary, so check the requirements before you book.
Read about visa on arrival, e-visas and online registration →
Still have specific visa questions?
October to April is cooler and best for sightseeing. Summers are extremely hot, especially in Luxor and Aswan.
Not sure which month suits your trip?
Pyramids of Giza
The Great Pyramid and the Sphinx, on the edge of Cairo.
Cairo
A huge, intense city with Islamic Cairo and superb museums.
Luxor
The Valley of the Kings and the Karnak Temple.
Aswan
A calm Nile city and the gateway to Abu Simbel.
Dahab
A laid-back Red Sea town for snorkeling and diving.
Need help choosing where to go?
- Days 1 to 4 Cairo and the Pyramids of Giza
- Days 5 to 7 Luxor
- Days 8 to 10 Aswan, by Nile cruise or train
- Days 11 to 13 Dahab or the Red Sea
Want a route planned around your dates?
- Fly or take overnight trains between Cairo and Upper Egypt. Nile cruises link Luxor and Aswan.
- Use ride apps in Cairo where possible.
Not sure how to get between places?
- Carry small notes for tips (baksheesh), which are common for many services.
- Cards work in larger hotels and shops, but cash is needed elsewhere.
- Buy an eSIM before you fly or a local SIM on arrival, so maps work from day one.
Questions about costs, cash or SIM cards?
- Koshari: rice, lentils and pasta with spicy sauce.
- Ful medames: slow-cooked fava beans.
- Fresh falafel (ta'amiya).
Want tips on what and where to eat?
- Check your government's advice, which differs for different regions.
- Dress modestly, and expect persistent sellers at major sites.
Planning a trip to Egypt?
Book a one-on-one call and bring your questions about your route, costs and visa.
Information on this page may change, so please confirm the latest visa and entry requirements and your government travel advice on official websites before you travel.