Visit Egypt - The Land of Pharaohs

General Information

- Capital: Cairo
- Area: 1,010,408 km²
- Population: Approx. 110 million
- Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP) (~0.030 EUR)
- Languages: Arabic (English is widely spoken in tourist areas)

Visa Requirements

All visitors to Egypt must:
- Hold a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
- Have an onward or return ticket.
- Show proof of accommodation and sufficient funds for the stay.
- Many nationalities qualify for a Visa on Arrival or an E-Visa.

Visa-Free or Visa-on-Arrival for Citizens of:

EU, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan (E-Visa or Visa on Arrival for 30 days), GCC Countries (Visa-free for short stays). Other nationalities may require a visa from an Egyptian embassy.

About Egypt

Egypt is a country of ancient wonders, rich culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
From the majestic Pyramids of Giza to the vibrant bazaars of Cairo, Egypt offers an unforgettable experience blending history, adventure, and relaxation.

Climate

Egypt has a desert climate, with warm temperatures most of the year:
- Winter (November - February): Pleasant and mild, best for sightseeing.
- Summer (June - August): Very hot, especially in southern Egypt.
- Spring & Autumn (March - May, September - October): Ideal for travel, with warm days and cool nights.

Main Attractions

- Pyramids of Giza & Sphinx – The last standing Wonder of the Ancient World.
- Luxor & Karnak Temples – Massive temple complexes in ancient Thebes.
- Valley of the Kings – The burial site of pharaohs, including King Tutankhamun.
- Abu Simbel – Impressive rock temples built by Ramses II.
- Cairo & Egyptian Museum – Home to ancient artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun.
- Alexandria – A Mediterranean city with Greco-Roman heritage.
- Nile River Cruises – A relaxing journey through Egypt’s historic sites.
- White Desert – Unique white rock formations in the Sahara.
- Siwa Oasis – A remote paradise with salt lakes and ancient ruins.
- Red Sea Resorts (Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab) – Top destinations for diving, snorkeling, and beaches.

Transportation

Egypt has various transport options:
- Domestic Flights – The fastest way to travel long distances (Cairo to Luxor, Aswan, Sharm El Sheikh).
- Trains – Comfortable overnight trains connect Cairo with Luxor and Aswan.
- Buses & Minibuses – Budget-friendly transport between cities.
- Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps – Uber and Careem are widely available in major cities.
- Nile River Boats & Feluccas – Traditional sailing boats, perfect for short trips.

Must-Try Food & Drinks

Food:
- Koshari – A mix of pasta, rice, lentils, chickpeas, and fried onions.
- Ful Medames – Mashed fava beans with olive oil and spices.
- Ta’meya (Egyptian Falafel) – Deep-fried fava bean patties.
- Mahshi – Stuffed vegetables filled with rice and herbs.
- Molokhia – A green soup made with jute leaves and garlic.
- Kebab & Kofta – Grilled lamb or beef skewers.

Desserts:
- Basbousa – A sweet semolina cake soaked in syrup.
- Konafa – A crispy pastry layered with nuts and sweet cream.
- Om Ali – Egyptian bread pudding with milk and nuts.
- Zalabia – Fried dough balls covered in honey.

Drinks:
- Hibiscus Tea (Karkadeh) – A refreshing red herbal tea.
- Sahlab – A warm, creamy drink made from orchid flour.
- Sugarcane Juice – A sweet and natural Egyptian beverage.
- Egyptian Coffee – Strong and similar to Turkish coffee.

Travel Tips for Egypt

1. Entry & Visa: Most travelers can get an E-Visa or Visa on Arrival.
2. Best Time to Visit: October - April for the best weather.
3. Transportation: Use domestic flights for long distances and Uber for city travel.
4. Local Etiquette: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
5. Money: ATMs are widely available; cash is preferred in markets.
6. Food: Try Koshari, Ta’meya, and Konafa.
7. Shopping: Visit Khan El Khalili Bazaar for souvenirs and spices.
8. Safety: Egypt is generally safe for tourists, but beware of scams in tourist areas.
9. What to Avoid: Avoid tap water; drink bottled water instead.
10. Cultural Experiences: Take a Nile cruise, explore traditional souks, and visit a Bedouin village.

Summary

Egypt is a historic and vibrant country, offering a mix of ancient wonders, desert adventures, and relaxing beach getaways.
Whether you're exploring the pyramids, cruising the Nile, or diving in the Red Sea, Egypt is a land of unforgettable experiences.