Region: Northeast corner of Africa
Capital: Cairo
Major Cities: Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, Alexandria
Borders: Libya, Sudan, Gaza & Israel
Total Area: 20,770 sq km
Time Zone: Egypt Standard Time (EET), UTC+2; switches to Egypt Daylight Time (UTC+3) in Summer
Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Languages: Arabic, English and French widely spoken
Religion: Islam & Coptic Christian
Climate: Hot, dry summers; mild winters
Best time to visit: October to April
Egypt’s vibrant capital is a sprawling metropolis where ancient wonders meet bustling modern life. The Giza Plateau, home to the last surviving Wonder of the Ancient World, sits at the city’s western edge.
Known as the world’s greatest open-air museum, Luxor houses an unparalleled concentration of ancient monuments along both banks of the Nile. The Valley of the Kings alone contains over 60 royal tombs.
Egypt’s sunniest southern city offers a tranquil Nile-side experience. The colossal Abu Simbel temples, carved from mountain rock by Ramses II, are one of Egypt’s most awe-inspiring sights.
Apply online at visa2egypt.gov.eg before travel. Available for 74+ nationalities. Single entry (30 days) costs ~$25 USD; multiple entry costs ~$60 USD. Processing takes 5–7 business days. Print confirmation and present at immigration.
Available for citizens of the EU, USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and several other countries. Purchase a visa sticker at the airport bank counter before immigration for ~$25 USD. Valid for 30 days, single entry. Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity.
A free 15-day entry permit for visitors staying in the Sinai Peninsula only (Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Taba). Stamped on arrival at Sharm El Sheikh airport or Taba border crossing. Cannot be used to visit Cairo, Luxor, or other mainland destinations.
Main international hub — Africa’s busiest airport
Red Sea resort gateway
Egypt–Israel (Eilat) — most popular overland crossing
Jordan to Sinai Peninsula, daily crossings
Three lines covering central Cairo. Clean, fast, and affordable (5–10 EGP). Women-only cars available. Connects key areas like Tahrir Square, Giza, and Helwan.
Widely available in Cairo, Alexandria, Hurghada, and Sharm El Sheikh. Air-conditioned, metered, and English-speaking drivers. Best option for tourists — no haggling required.
Common in smaller towns, rural areas, and some Cairo neighborhoods. Very cheap but no meters — always negotiate the fare. Fun for short distances.
Honeymooners, luxury travelers, special occasions
$150–$500+ per night
Always carry small denominations of Egyptian pounds for taxis, tips, and street vendors. ATMs are widely available in cities and resort areas. Haggling is expected at markets and with unofficial taxi drivers. For inter-city travel, book trains and buses in advance during peak season (December–February).