Why Egypt Should Be Your Next Travel Destination

Egypt, located in Northeastern Africa, offers a perfect blend of sunshine and rich ancient history. With a population ofaround 120 million , it is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea.

The capital city, Cairo, situated on the banks of the River Nile, is a must-visit. It boasts remarkable Ottoman landmarks, including the Egyptian Museum and the Muhammad Ali Mosque, among others.

Plan your dream trip to Egypt with this comprehensive guide that covers everything you need to know.

Ultimate Guide: Must-See Attractions and Activities in Egypt

Explore Egypt’s top attractions and unforgettable experiences, from ancient monuments to lively cities. Whether you’re exploring the Pyramids of Giza or wandering through Cairo’s busy streets, this guide helps you make the most of your trip. Get ready to step into history and experience the rich culture of Egypt.

What tourist attractions are there to visit in Egypt?

Egypt offers a wide range of tourist attractions, from ancient monuments to beautiful beaches and deserts. Let’s have a look at these.

1. The Pyramids of Giza

No visit to Egypt is complete without seeing the Pyramids of Giza, one of the 7 wonders of the ancient World. Located near Cairo, this famous site includes 3 main pyramids: the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure. These were built as tombs for pharaohs and the iconic Great Sphinx (with the body of a lion and the head of a human). Visitors can explore some pyramid interiors and admire the remarkable engineering of ancient Egypt.

2. The Town of Luxor

Luxor, located on the Nile River, is called the world's greatest open-air museum. It was once the city of Thebes and the capital of Egypt during the New Kingdom. The city is full of ancient temples, tombs, and archaeological sites. Visitors can see the huge Temple of Karnak, the beautifully lit Luxor Temple, and the Valley of the Kings on the West Bank, where pharaohs like Tutankhamun were buried.

3. Luxor's Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings

The Temple of Karnak in Luxor is a huge and amazing ancient site. It is Egypt's largest religious building, covering over 200 acres, and is dedicated to the god Amun. The temple has big columns, halls, statues, and the Avenue of Sphinxes, which leads to Luxor Temple.

The Valley of the Kings is on Luxor’s West Bank and is where many pharaohs were buried between the 16th and 11th centuries BC. Visitors can see decorated tombs, including Tutankhamun’s, which was found almost intact in 1922. The wall paintings and treasures in the tombs show how ancient Egyptians honoured their kings after death.

4. Abu Simbel: The Temples That Moved

Located near the southern border of Egypt, Abu Simbel has 2 big temples carved into the mountainside. The Great Temple of Ramesses II and the smaller Temple of Hathor were originally built in the 13th century BC and were moved in the 1960s to save them from flooding, caused by the construction of the Aswan High Dam. The temples have huge statues and detailed carvings of ancient Egypt’s pharaohs.

5. Popular Red Sea Beaches & Resorts

Egypt’s Red Sea coast is perfect for beach lovers and divers. Places like Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, and Marsa Alam have beautiful beaches, clear water, and colourful coral reefs. Visitors can enjoy snorkelling, scuba diving, and windsurfing. The resorts also offer luxury hotels, world-class dining options, and lively nightlife.

6. Cairo's Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum in Cairo has over 120,000 artefacts from ancient Egypt. You can see treasures like Tutankhamun’s golden mask, jewellery, mummies, and statues. The museum shows the history of pharaohs and life in ancient Egypt along the Nile.

7. Aswan and the Philae Temple

Located in southern Egypt, Aswan is a city renowned for its stunning natural beauty and historical sites. One of the highlights of Aswan is the Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Situated on an island in the Nile, the temple was relocated to its current location after the construction of the Aswan High Dam. Visitors can explore the beautifully preserved temple complex, featuring breathtaking colonnades, hieroglyphics, and intricate carvings.

8. The White Desert

For those seeking a unique and surreal landscape, the White Desert is a must-visit destination. Located in the western part of Egypt's Sahara Desert, this otherworldly landscape is characterised by its white limestone rock formations, shaped by wind erosion over thousands of years. The desert's surreal formations, resembling mushrooms and other curious shapes, create an ethereal atmosphere. Visitors can camp overnight under the starry sky, creating an unforgettable experience.

9. Alexandria's Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa

On the Mediterranean coast lies the city of Alexandria, known for its rich historical significance. One of the city's most intriguing attractions is the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, an underground necropolis dating back to the 2nd century AD. These catacombs were designed as a final resting place for multiple family members and showcase a fusion of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman architectural styles. Visitors can explore the maze-like tunnels, admire intricate carvings, and observe ancient burial rituals.

10. The Temples of Luxor's East Bank

Luxor’s East Bank is full of amazing sites. Luxor Temple, in the city center, is beautiful and magical when lit at night. The Avenue of Sphinxes, lined with sphinx statues, connects Luxor Temple to Karnak Temple and is perfect for a stroll while seeing ancient Egypt’s grandeur.

11. Dahab and the Blue Hole

Dahab, on the Sinai coast, is great for diving and snorkelling. The Blue Hole is a famous underwater sinkhole with clear water and colourful coral reefs, making it a paradise for underwater exploration. Divers can see tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine life. Dahab is perfect for adventure or relaxing by the sea.

Egyptian Cuisine: What traditional foods should I try?

Egyptian cuisine is a rich blend of Eastern Mediterranean flavours, and its roots are a source of great pride for the people of Egypt. The food is flavorful and comforting, made with spices, vibrant vegetables, and luscious fruits sourced from the Nile Valley and Delta. 

Must-try dishes include koshary, a delectable combination of rice, chickpeas, lentils, and pasta. Each ingredient is individually cooked before being skillfully mixed together and generously topped with a cumin-infused tomato sauce.

Another highlight of Egyptian cuisine is the mixed grill, a scrumptious assortment of charcoal-grilled meats, including succulent kebabs and falafels. Molokhia, a dish featuring Egyptian spinach, is also a popular choice for those seeking a unique and flavorful experience. 

Make sure the meat is well-cooked, and avoid drinking tap water; bottled water is best.

Best Time to Travel: When is the optimal time to visit Egypt?

The best time to visit Egypt is from September to April, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing.

From May to August, temperatures can be extremely hot, especially in desert areas, so travel is less comfortable. It's important to note that there can be a significant drop in temperatures during the night, with a difference of around 20 degrees Celsius. So bring light, warm clothing. Egypt has very little rainfall, so rain is rarely a concern.

Tourist Safety: Is Egypt a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Egypt is generally safe for tourists. However, it is always wise to prioritise safety and take necessary precautions while enjoying your holiday. Stay alert while exploring markets, especially at night. Watch out for pickpockets and potential scammers; such issues can occasionally arise in public spaces throughout Egypt.

To ensure the security of your belongings, it is recommended to leave valuable items at home or securely store them in a hotel safe. Additionally, it is advisable to carry only the necessary amount of cash required for your daily expenses.

Language and Currency: What are the primary languages and currencies in Egypt?

Arabic is Egypt’s official language, and most people speak it in daily life. The official currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP), divided into 100 piastres, and ATMs are widely available in major cities for cash withdrawals. 

When visiting Egypt, it’s helpful to carry some cash, as ATMs can be hard to find in remote areas. In Egypt, tipping holds significant cultural importance. It is customary to tip around 10% of the bill amount, as many workers rely on tips as part of their income. Bearing this in mind during your interactions and transactions is considered appropriate and respectful.

Visa Requirements: Will I need a visa to enter Egypt?

Most travellers need a visa to enter Egypt. For short stays of up to 30 days, eligible travellers can apply online for an Egypt eVisa, which is usually issued as a single-entry (valid for 90 days) or multiple-entry (valid for 180 days), depending on the option chosen.

eVisa Requirements: What are the prerequisites for obtaining an Egypt eVisa?

You will need the following essentials to apply for the Egypt eVisa:

• A passport that is valid for at least 6 months from an eligible country
• Scanned image of the bio page of your passport

For detailed information, visit the Egypt eVisa Requirements page.

Eligible Countries: Which countries are eligible for an Egypt eVisa?

The Egypt eVisa is available to citizens of many countries around the world, allowing eligible travellers to apply online instead of visiting an embassy. Eligibility depends on nationality, so travellers should confirm their country is on Egypt’s approved eVisa list before applying.

Processing Time: How long does it take to process an Egypt eVisa?

The Egypt eVisa application process is quick and simple. In most cases, standard online applications are processed within about 5 - 7 Working Days, making it an easy and efficient option for travellers. For urgent travel plans, applicants can choose a faster processing option during the application process, allowing the eVisa to be reviewed and issued more quickly.