✅ Must Do: Explore the Valley of the Kings in Luxor
✅ Must Eat: Koshary (lentils, rice & tomato sauce)
✅ Bring Home: Papyrus scroll (hand-painted, authentic)
🧠 Trivia: Ancient Egyptians were the first to use a 365-day solar calendar.
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Not Everything You Need to Know, But a Good Place to Start
The best time to visit Egypt is during the cooler, drier months from October to April. Daytime temperatures are comfortable for exploring the ancient sites, and the nights are cool. The summer months of May to September can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C), which can make sightseeing challenging.
Yes, U.S. citizens are required to have a visa to enter Egypt. The most convenient option for tourists is to obtain a visa on arrival at the airport for a fee of $25 (cash only). You can also apply for an e-Visa online at least seven days before your departure.
For long distances, domestic flights are the fastest and most comfortable option. Trains are a great choice for traveling along the Nile River, connecting cities like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. For a unique experience, a Nile River cruise is a popular way to see many of the country’s ancient sites.
Renting a car is generally not recommended for most tourists. Traffic in major cities like Cairo can be chaotic, and driving norms may be different from what you are used to. For day trips and travel between cities, it is safer and more convenient to hire a private driver, use a taxi, or travel by public transport.
The official currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). While credit cards are accepted at major hotels and restaurants in tourist areas, it is essential to carry cash for smaller purchases at local markets, for tipping, and for using taxis or local transport. U.S. dollars are also widely accepted in tourist areas, especially for major purchases.
Tipping, or baksheesh, is a deeply ingrained part of Egyptian culture and is expected for most services. Tipping is a primary source of income for many service workers. In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is customary. For tour guides and drivers, a larger tip is expected, often a few hundred Egyptian Pounds per day depending on the group size and quality of service.
It is not recommended to drink the tap water in Egypt. The water is often heavily chlorinated and can cause stomach upset. Stick to bottled water, which is widely available and affordable. It is also wise to avoid drinks with ice and to brush your teeth with bottled water.
Pack light, breathable, and loose-fitting clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton or linen. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential. For visiting religious sites, women should have a scarf to cover their heads, and both men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees.
The most convenient way is by taxi or a pre-arranged transfer. Be sure to agree on the fare beforehand or use a ride-sharing app. The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
The most popular day trip is to the Pyramids of Giza, which are technically just outside Cairo. Other popular excursions include a visit to the ancient city of Memphis and the Step Pyramid of Djoser at Saqqara, or a trip to the historic city of Alexandria.
Egypt is a fantastic destination for families who are interested in history and adventure. Many tour companies offer family-friendly itineraries. Kids will love exploring the pyramids, riding a camel, and sailing on a traditional felucca boat on the Nile.
Cruises are an excellent way to see the ancient sites along the Nile River. A multi-day Nile River cruise typically sails between Luxor and Aswan, stopping at iconic temples and tombs along the way. It provides a convenient and relaxing way to see a large part of the country’s highlights without the hassle of arranging individual transportation and accommodation.
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