Egypt has caught our attention more lately for the upheaval that has spread through the country. Egypt has long been renowned as the site of the pyramids and temples of an amazing ancient civilization.

Today’s, most preferred tourist destinations include not just the Nile Valley’s monuments and Islamic Cairo’s souks, mosques, and madrassas, but also spectacular coral reefs with tropical fish, dunes, old fortresses, monasteries, and prehistoric rock art.

The terrain is a quirk of creation, and the Nile River is its lifeblood. The Nile Valley and its Delta are surrounded by desert wastelands from the Sudanese border to the Mediterranean beaches, the latter as desolate as the former. This extreme contrast between fertility and destitution is essential to Egypt’s identity, and it has molded the country’s history since prehistoric times, providing continuity to various civilizations and peoples through seven millennia. Religion, which penetrates every area of life, reinforces a feeling of stability and constancy.

Following the overthrow of Tunisia’s long-time leader, hundreds of thousands of Egyptians demonstrated against the country’s socioeconomic inequality and corrupt rule in massive anti-government rallies, which finally led to President Mubarak’s departure in 2011. He was apprehended and condemned to life in prison for fatalities that occurred during the protests.

Where to go in Egypt

The most exciting places to visit in Egypt are:

• Abydos and Dandarah
• Alexandria
• Around Lake Nasser
• Aswan
• Cairo
• Luxor and Karnak
• Red Sea Coast
• Sinai
• The Oases of the Western Desert
• The Pyramids

Egypt appears from space as a mass of yellow with a narrow section of green extending from its southern border with Sudan to the Mediterranean via the Nile Delta. The yellow represents the desert, while the green represents the Nile Valley, which is residence to over 90% of Egypt’s demographic of almost 80 million people. For almost 3,000 years, a powerful empire existed along this valley. Many of Ancient Egypt’s tombs, temples, and Pyramids have survived, despite the nation’s hot, dry environment and the fact that they are often buried by the sands. They are a significant draw to the country.

In Cairo, Egypt’s bustling metropolis, the bazaars and historic mosques are the main attractions, but the contrast of medieval and contemporary life, with defended gates, mansions, and skyscrapers interspersed with flyovers whose traffic may be blocked by donkey carts, is no less fascinating. If you’ve ever been to Egypt, you’ll be blown away by the size and variety of this “Mother of Cities.” A short distance from Cairo are the beginning of a series of pyramids that stretch over the desert till they reach the Fayoum, including Giza, Saqqara, and the Dahshur pyramids.

The Nile Valley, with its historic monuments and timeless river panoramas, remains the major tourist draw, as it always has been – Nile cruises on a luxury vessel or a felucca sailboat are a fantastic opportunity to combine the two. Luxor is known for the majestic Karnak temples and the Theban Necropolis, which contains the Valley of the Kings, which is where Tutankhamun and other pharaohs are buried. Aswan, Egypt’s southernmost city, offers the most beautiful Nile scenery and a relaxing atmosphere. From here, you may see Isis’ island temple Philae and Abu Simbel’s rock-hewn colossi, or take a boat to other sites around Lake Nasser.

Egypt is rich with natural marvels in addition to monuments. Whether you like the luxurious hotels of Sharm el-Sheikh, adjacent Na’ama Bay, or Taba farther north, or the inexpensive, basic life of Dahab and Nuweiba, the resorts around the Gulf of Aqaba have something for everyone. In the hilly interior, it’s possible to visit St Catherine’s Monastery and Mount Sinai.

More reefs may be found further offshore on Egypt’s Red Sea Coast, with snorkeling and diving typically concentrated on Hurghada, while hardly touched island reefs from Port Safaga to Marsa Alam attract serious divers. The rugged Eastern Desert, inland, is home to the Coptic monasteries of St Paul and St Anthony, Roman quarries, and a plethora of pharaonic and prehistoric rock art, which is only seen by the nomadic Bedouin.

Although tourism has yet to reach the Eastern Desert, the Western Desert Oases have been on the tourist path for forty years and now offer wilderness safaris. Siwa, on the Libyan border, has a distinct culture and history, as well as clear lakes and a lot of beauty. The “Great Desert Circuit” (starting in Cairo, Luxor, or Assyut) passes through the four “inner” oases – though Bahariya and Farafra have the most appeal, with the lovely White Desert between them, the larger oases of Dakhla and Kharga also have their benefits once you flee their modernized “capitals”.

Alexandria, Egypt’s second city on the Mediterranean, has a stretch of beaches to which Cairenes go in the summer, as well as great seafood restaurants..

Is Egypt Safe?

To put it bluntly, Egypt is safe. During our whole 10-day stay in Egypt, I never felt threatened or worried about my safety.

It’s necessary to discuss the question’s roots in order to comprehend it. Egypt had a civil revolt nine years ago, with rallies, demonstrations, marches, and civil resistance lasting 18 days. There was a protest against the president, injustice, and a lack of liberties that reached a boiling point. At this moment, things were extremely volatile, and major cities such as Cairo were in shambles.

This Revolution of 2011 was the catalyst for the country’s significant tourist slump. Things have improved since then, but they are still not back to pre-Revolutionary War levels. Because of the sights seen across the globe of Tahrir Square, as well as reports of a Russian aircraft crash and a roadside bomb, the major concern has always been one of safety. Many nations continue to issue travel advisories for Egypt, which hasn’t helped matters.

The fact is that reality differs significantly from what is portrayed when you are on the ground. Egyptians are really nice people. Tourism is a major contribution to the economy, and officials are working hard to alter the bad impression. In Cairo, there is no evidence of public disturbance. Even outside of Cairo, you’ll spend the most of your time in Egypt. Locals informed us that the uprising had had little impact on the land. There are no safety issues outside of Cairo.

Visa on Arrival

An immigration checkpoint in Egypt offers visa-on-arrival to citizens of more than 60 countries. Permission to stay in Egypt for up to 30 days is granted upon approval of the visa on arrival. Once you are in Egypt, you must proceed straight to border control and wait in line for an application to be filled out before you may receive your visa on arrival.

On your arrival in Egypt, after filling out a form with a variety of personal information, passport data, and travel information, applicants must pay a visa fee in the local currency. It is not possible to pay with a credit/debit card. The Egypt e-Visa has been the ideal option for individuals intending to visit the nation for a short period of time since its establishment. However, an Egyptian Visa on Arrival can still be obtained.

Prior to the implementation of the new electronic visa, obtaining an Egypt tourist visa on arrival was a simple process. That’s because passengers didn’t have to worry about applying for their visa ahead of time; all they had to do was make sure they had all of the appropriate documentation and the application fee with them when they boarded the plane.

For years, eligible travelers have been allowed to obtain an Egyptian visa on arrival, which has not been withdrawn. Citizens of 41 countries are presently eligible to apply for a visa on arrival in Egypt: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Germany, Georgia, Hungary, Italy, Ireland, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Macedonia, Malaysia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, South Korea, Ukraine, United Kingdom and The United States.

Sim Cards

We all know that having a SIM Card is as important as having other things due to the fact that it will give you the opportunity to make calls and also to use cellular data during your tour in Egypt. You can easily get a SIM card at the Orange shop at Cairo International Airport.

The cost of a SIM card in Egypt is 266 EGP. After purchasing this SIM card, you will be given 10 gigabyte of data for 30 days. As you could think, traveling even without Internet is difficult, since GPS is highly needed to track your route and place.

Egypt Prepaid Sim Card

In large cities, first of all there is a need to speak about the SIM card cellular data connection in Egypt. If you don’t go to the desert or faraway towns, the network connection will be strong. Most tourists gave a good remark that they don’t travel too far and the network connection has always been fantastic. Moreover, wireless internet in hotels can be provided.

Certainly, buying a prepaid SIM card in Egypt is one of the best decisions you can ever make in order to get connected online. It is advisable to get the visitor Egypt SIM card at the airport as the packages and pricing in an administrative store are the same.

Egypt Sim Card Airport getting prepaid

It’s easy and straightforward to acquire Egypt SIM card airport prepaid with Vodafone and Orange. You will be provided different alternatives when you reach the International Airport in Cairo. Grab your travel documents in the airport or in a store whenever you want to purchase your local SIM in Egypt because it is always necessary.

From the airport to electronics stores in Egypt, you can acquire a SIM card practically anyplace. Just remember to carry your passport or any other legal means of identification along with you. Also, be completely sure you notify them of their packages and costs. It all relies on how long you’ll be in Egypt and the quantity of cellular data you’ll require. There are inexpensive SIM cards available in Egypt for travelers that are valid for up to a month.

Egypt has four phone companies: Etisalat, WE, Vodafone, and Orange Orange and Vodafone provide comparable plans and connectivity. Etisalat offers a great call rate, while WE have the most economical data packages that are adequate for cities.

VODAFONE

This is one of the Egypt’s tourist SIM cards, which is also the biggest and most successful covered telephone operator in Egypt. This Vodafone Egypt SIM card can be obtained from the airport or office shopping for tourists. For 188 EGP, you will be given 8 gb, and 200 and 20 minutes calls for local and international respectively.

ORANGE

The second biggest phone operator is the Orange SIM card and the service is strong, although less than Vodafone. This Orange Egypt SIM card can be obtained from the airport or office shopping for tourists. For 188 EGP, you will be given 5 gb, and 200 and 20 minutes calls for local and international respectively.

Etisalat

Etisalat is one of the Egypt’s tourist SIM cards, which is also the third biggest and most successful covered telephone operator in Egypt. This Etisalat Egypt SIM card can be obtained from the airport or office shopping for tourists. For 157 EGP, you will be given 5 gb, and 500 and 10 minutes calls for local and international respectively.

WE

The smallest phone operator is the Orange SIM card and the service is strong, although less than Vodafone. This WE Egypt SIM card can be obtained from the airport or office shopping for tourists. For 282 EGP, you will be given 18 gb, and 200 and 20 mins calls for local and international respectively.

Is it safe to drink the Tap Water?

It is not advisable to drink water from the tap in Egypt. Water treatment plants in and around Cairo chlorinate the supply substantially, making the water safe to drink in the city. Purchasing bottled water or drinking treated or filtered water is recommended everywhere else in Egypt.

Bottled water is widely available and usually inexpensive in Egypt, however for environmental concerns, investigate other options to reduce plastic waste. Bring a refillable water bottle or canteen that can be replenished as needed, or buy some water purification pills or a disinfecting kit to cleanse your water on the fly.

Cairo tap water is thought to be a “dirtier” variant of what is used in most other cities throughout the world. For a long time, the Egyptian government has used filters to cleanse the water supply in Cairo. The media has recently begun claiming that Cairo’s tap water is of poor quality and occasionally tainted with fatal pathogens such as SARS and HIV. According to the head of Cairo’s municipal water treatment facility, the number of cases of these viruses has increased considerably in the last year, possibly due to increasing chlorine disinfection use.

This is bad, but a big majority of the water on Cairo’s sidewalks is probably safe to drink, but still holds a variety of bacteria and viruses. This drinking water is sent to the treatment plant. The facilities are strictly forbidden from allowing the water from the streets to come into contact with any other bottles. They further claim that only the cleansed water from the plant will be released into the Nile River.

Cairo is home to several historic monuments, the most renowned of which are the Giza Pyramids. A boat voyage across the Nile River is required to reach these amazing structures. This is an exciting aspect of the vacation since you will get a new viewpoint of the Pyramids. Exploring these wonderful sites, as well as the many churches, temples, and mosques, will not be a dream once you get in Cairo because they are all right there in plain sight. Two of the most notable landmarks, particularly for Catholics, are the Coptic Church of the Holy Sepulcher and the Coptic Temple of the Golden Monastery.

Water from the Nile should never be consumed, and it is unlawful to do so anyhow, but if you reside in a region where this is the case, a purifier can be used. There are a few good ones on the market, and you must choose the one that best meets your requirements and budget. This type of water filter generates great-tasting, clean water from all Nile River faucets, showers, and toilets. The price is determined by the features provided and the brand name. It is highly recommended to get one with a filtering system and an ion exchange system because I’ve used both and they function nicely together.

The quality of the water in the Cairo area has been the subject of numerous research over the years. According to recent studies, Cairo’s water is safe to drink, but the quality isn’t great and is easily influenced by outside factors. This was brought home to me as I stayed in an area where locals and visitors had some big confrontations. We were all compelled to drink bottled water in the vacation town since the people did not want us to drink their water. Although it would be an exaggeration to declare that Cairo’s water is safe to drink, I will say that it is clean and that there are no signs of industrial pollution.

Tipping

Tourism in Egypt is based on tips, and for some it is their sole source of income, which is why I understand why people are so aggressive about it. Another thing to keep in mind is that tipping is ingrained in Egyptian culture as a necessary supplement to the populace’s high incidence of poverty.

Giving baksheesh or gratuity to someone expresses gratitude for the intended services received; nevertheless, it is not mandatory, as no one can force you to give any quantity of cash that you do not want. It is something very traditional in Egypt that has been passed down for hundreds of years and should be remembered by everybody who provides you with services in Egypt, including tour guides, drivers, waiters, and others. As a result, after receiving a service, you can pay the person who helped you a sum of money that is defined by the services you obtained.

Consider the tipping fees when arranging a holiday in Egypt. The simplest method to do this is to keep change in your pocket because you never know when you’ll need a bill. The best way in tipping everyone while not spending a lot of money is to exchange some of your money into Egyptian pounds once you arrive in Egypt. One dollar will equal around 16 EGP, which will be more than enough to give to someone as a token of gratitude and gratification for the services you have earned.

You should tip the person who appears to be in need of your money, does you a favor, and provides you with the best services. Such folks don’t try to persuade you to give them money; instead, they aim to gain your enthusiasm for their services. So, if you come across someone like this in Egypt, don’t be afraid to give him or her some advice.

Some may wonder if it is impolite not to tip, and the answer is that, sadly, just like in any other country, there are those who take advantage of difficult situations where you can’t say no and keep pushing for things they don’t deserve. In such cases, we will tell you out loud that you should not give them a dime of your money since they do not deserve it. Some parents use children to steal baksheesh from tourists, which is illegal in Egypt. The administration is doing everything it can to prevent such activities, and you can help by simply saying no and leaving them without tipping them.

Nevertheless, if you come across someone who requires assistance, feel free to offer him or her whatever amount of money you see appropriate.

Should you rent a car in Egypt?

If you wish to rent a car in Egypt, you must consider a lot of factors. There are a number of prerequisites for hiring an automobile. For example, you’ll need a valid Egypt visa. Prior to departure, travelers can rent a car on the website of an Egyptian car dealer or rental firm. In Egypt, most international automobile rental firms, such as Avis, Hertz, and Europcar, operate. The prices vary greatly depending on the type and age of the vehicle. In Egypt, a rental automobile costs between $40 and $50 per day on average. It is not essential to book a car ahead of time; you can simply go to one of the different car rental companies’ branches after you arrive. Typically, these can be obtained at the airport.

In addition to your local driver’s license, you’ll need an international driving license to drive in Egypt. Despite the fact that the legal driving age in Egypt is 18, the minimum age for hiring a car as a tourist is 25 years and the maximum age is 70 years. Front and rear seatbelts are required for all passengers, and children under the age of seven are not permitted to sit in the front. In built-up areas, the speed limit is 60 km/h, 90 km/h outdoors, and 100 km/h on the highway. You might expect a punishment if you don’t control your speed in Egypt, which is noted for its high frequency of speed checks.

Some people believe that if you can drive in Egypt, you can drive elsewhere in the world. In general, travelers are warned against driving in Egypt. Traveling by public transportation, taxi, or renting a car with a personal driver is popular among tourists. One of the main factors why it is preferable not to drive in Egypt is that priority regulations are mostly made up of unwritten norms. The official rules that are in place are also not always observed. Pedestrians in Egypt technically have the right of way, which means that a pedestrian may cross the road unexpectedly.

Thousands of people are killed in traffic accidents in Egypt each year, the majority of them are pedestrians. Constantly maintain eye contact with pedestrians, as their body language typically indicates whether or not they wish to cross.

There are other rules or rather conventions, which are usually only understood by those who have driven in Egypt previously. Large vehicles, for example, have priority over smaller vehicles, and it’s necessary not to retain too much distance from the automobile in front of you, but also not too little, because drivers frequently stop in the middle of the road out of nowhere. Furthermore, in Egypt, an automobile horn is required.

It is not uncommon for traffic lights in Egypt to malfunction. A police officer is frequently present to direct traffic in such situations. Because the officer chooses who has precedence, this is one of the few circumstances when there are explicit priority norms that everyone must observe.

Should you hire a tour company?

If you are planning your trip to Egypt, you could be wondering if you should hire a tour company. Partnering with a good local tour operator on the ground is the most critical aspect of Egypt. These are the individuals who will be in charge of putting together your schedule, ensuring that you have a reliable team of drivers and Egyptologists, are well-organized, and prioritize client satisfaction.

While Egypt is secure, there are several difficulties to travel in Egypt that require the assistance of a native. This can include navigating tipping, common scams, camera equipment restrictions, and checkpoints. You don’t want to have to deal with these issues on your own.

Because the market is rife with freelancers and companies-for-hire, you’ll want to avoid getting shifted from one to the next as much as possible while in Egypt. A firm that employs its own employees and boats for the entire tour is perfect. Independent contractors can be used on tours, but they must be verified, come from a small pool of talent, and have a strong reputation.

Though it may appear to be overkill at first, end-to-end care is an essential component of traveling in Egypt to ensure you have a positive experience. Along the road and at the entrances to attractions, there are numerous security checkpoints. If you’re with a tour operator, we learnt that all itinerary paperwork must be filed with the police.

Is a Nile cruise worth it?

How much is a Nile cruise worth? YES! This was by far the most memorable tour in Egypt. Your next question must be: “What about the pyramids?” The pyramids are, after all, the pyramids. Each and every one of us longs to see them. As a result of this, the expectations are quite high. It never occurred to us to take a trip on Nile, the world’s largest river and one of the most important historical events.

As a first-time cruiser, you may have specific expectations based on your desired experience or budget. Afraid? Not at all. Neither a touristic nor an expensive Nile river cruise is required. It’s hard to argue with the fact that a Nile River cruise is nearly always the most cost-effective option, even if you’re traveling on a budget. Three meals a day, onboard entertainment, and themed nights, plus you are lodging and are all included in the package.

It’s also a good idea to wait to arrange your river cruise until you’re in Egypt if you’re able to be flexible with dates. As long as you bypass the middleman of third-party booking agencies by going directly to the ports in search of cruise salesmen, you may find a cruise that fits even the most frugal traveler’s price range. Request a tour of the vessel before booking, and don’t forget that in Egypt, you have the power to bargain virtually anything. There are a large number of excursions that begin or end in Aswan, although most begin in Luxor and have a lengthier itinerary.

It is possible to completely experience the rhythms of everyday life on a Nile river trip, while you take in the landscape and animals. On the riverbanks, you may even see local fishermen and farmers. In addition to showing off Egypt’s natural splendor, a river cruise also takes you on an adventure, taking you to some of the country’s most popular and culturally rich locations. There are days spent visiting Ptolemaic temples in Esna and Edfu’s majestic Temple of Horus at Kom Ombo, the Avenue of Sphinxes at Karnak, and many more marketplaces.

When it comes to visiting some places, such as Egypt, you should avoid tourist traps by going out on your own. While traveling between Luxor and Aswan on land, you’ll be able to see more temples, sights, and experiences with the help of knowledgeable guides. Throughout your tour, you’ll have access to a wealth of local information. Because of the knowledgeable tour operators, it is also simpler to move about. They can direct groups through the crowded bazaars and get to some major temples and attractions that would be difficult to go to on their own.

Best time to visit Egypt

During October and April is the greatest season to visit Egypt, when temperatures are colder but still comfortable across the country. This makes wandering Cairo’s crowded streets, visiting the desert Pyramids, and visiting ancient Pharaonic tombs more comfortable and enjoyable.

The summer season (May to September) is quite hot, although the extreme heat is mitigated by very dry air, air conditioning, fewer visitors, and reduced pricing. As a result, summer is still a possible option for your vacation. A river cruise on the Nile is also a wonderful option during this time because there is always a breeze.

Egypt inspires the explorer in all of us with its sand-covered tombs, austere pyramids, and towering Pharaonic temples. Use this helpful month-by-month advice for the ideal plan to travel to Egypt when you’re planning to organize your vacation to this ancient region.

During the high season which occurs between October and February, much of the Northern Hemisphere is freezing and bundling up in heavy coats, Egypt’s winter is mostly bright and warm, with only very infrequent rain, but the Mediterranean coast may have some cold and gloomy days. In warmed hotels beside the sea, especially in damp Alexandria, it can get quite chilly. Expect great housing fees throughout the winter months in Egypt, particularly between Christmas and New Year, when many European families are traveling away from the cold.

In Egypt, the tourist season is lighter in the spring and fall. Sandstorms are common in the spring, and they can cause aircraft delays. Summer’s weather can last well into October, making it ideal for more leisurely adventures and touring. Warm waters await you on the Mediterranean and Red Sea beaches, and you won’t have to get up in the morning to claim your spot in the sand.

Just the toughest tourists brave the searing summer sun in the Western Desert and southern Egypt, where the annual high temperature is a sweltering 108°F (42°C). Summer is peak season on the Mediterranean, when the temperature is cooler than anywhere else but the shore is congested and hotel rooms can be difficult to come by.

Major Cities to Visit In Egypt

Cairo

Your Egyptian trip will most likely begin in Cairo, a bustling metropolis with a population of over 20 million people. Cairo is a bustling metropolis where people may be found on the streets at all hours of the day and night. It’s dirty, noisy, and a touch crazy. Cairo looks spectacular with its unique mix of modernism and history.

The Giza Necropolis (home to the pyramids), the Egyptian Museum, and the magnificent Cairo Citadel are just a few of the sights to see in Cairo. If you like street markets, Khan el-Khalili, a huge bazaar with antiques, art, and other items, is a must-see.

Alexandria

The city was formerly famous for its distinctive lighthouse. The Pharos of Alexandria was a beacon erected in the 3rd century BCE, and it was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World that survived for over 2000 years before being destroyed by earthquakes in the 14th century.

The Citadel of Qaitbay on the Mediterranean Sea Coast is a 15th century military stronghold built upon the remains of the renowned lighthouse. The Sultan of the same name constructed Fort Quaitbay, which has been well repaired, and observant visitors may spot old granite from the lighthouse amid its walls.

The library at Alexandria, which housed almost a million documents in its prime in the 3rd century but was destroyed by the Roman Empire, is one of the city’s other notable historic sites. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern educational center established in the early 2000s, does a good job of capturing the spirit of the old educational center.

Unfortunately, the ancient remnants of this historically significant city are not as evident as they are in Egypt’s other towns, due to both nature and human hands. Alexandria, on the other hand, remains a popular tourist destination due to its gorgeous beaches and interesting history, which can still be sensed in the city’s museums.

Luxor

Luxor was the capital of ancient Egypt. It, like other major cities, offers a plethora of attractions. The Valley of the Kings, an archaeological site with over 60 tombs and burial chambers, is one of the most famous places in Egypt. The Luxor area also includes Karnak, a huge complex of temple ruins.

Finish your trip to Luxor by visiting the Luxor Temple, Medinet Habu Temple, and the Valley of the Queens, which has 90 burial sites devoted to female monarchs and accompanies the Valley of the Kings.

Aswan

Aswan, in addition to having an interesting history, is still a bustling business and tourism hub. One of the factors for this is the city’s well-known Dams, which have had a huge impact on Egypt’s economic and cultural growth and are frequently featured on city tours. Aswan is also home to the ancient stone quarries wherein the pyramids, sculptures, and other monuments were cut, and viewing the Unfinished Obelisk, which would still be partially connected to the rock from which it was carved 3500 years ago, is a hallmark of any journey to the city.

If you’re lucky enough to have a lot of time in Aswan, you may visit one of the city’s museums, which is committed to a different aspect of Egypt: the culture and history of the Nubian people. If this tickles your curiosity, go to Gharb Soheil, also known as the Nubian Village, which is a short boat ride across the Nile from Aswan. Of course, Aswan, like the rest of Egypt, is home to a wide range of ancient temples, including Philae Temple, which is devoted to the goddess Isis and is situated on an island not far from the city center.

Finally, Aswan is an excellent starting place for a Nile River cruise. These leisurely excursions, which usually last 3-4 days, are a great opportunity to explore the monuments and relics of ancient life along the Nile’s banks.

Hurghada

Hurghada, one of Egypt’s best beach cities, is the place to go if you’re looking for azure seas, pleasant winds, and cold water. Divers flock to this sophisticated resort region, which extends approximately 25 kilometers along the Red Sea. The Red Sea diving is among of the greatest in the world, and you may hire your own equipment or join a dive tour from one of Hurghada’s many dive shops. If divers isn’t your thing, explore Hurghada’s aquarium or the old town of El Dahar for a real Egyptian experience.

Traveling to Egypt as an American

Although, Egypt is a source of ancient culture, you will fall in love with every spot you visit. Your senses will be awestruck by the magnificent monuments and landmarks in Egypt, as well as by the ancient Egyptian history that is filled with refined culture and enthralling events, particularly after striking a proper mix between what is ancient and what is modern.

Travelers from all over the world flock to Egypt because it provides everything they need to have a memorable vacation, whether they are explorers looking for antiques or just want to relax on a beach and take in the stunning beauty of nature. As a visitor from the United States, you may have a lot of questions about Egypt, which is why we’ve compiled a list of the most important things to consider before planning a trip to Egypt.

It is simple to see why so many travelers from all over the world to enjoy Egypt’s beauty, which can be seen in the stunning sands of the Sahara, the impressive two Temples of Abu Simbel, the legendary elegance of the paintings inside Queen Nefertari’s tomb in the Valley of the Queens, the captivating Pyramids in Giza, and the spectacular ancient city of Luxor. Simply said, Americans and other travelers can relax while touring Egypt and experience a very safe journey because Egypt is one of the safest nations to attract more tourist, and tourism is returning to previous levels.

What to avoid in Egypt

Not researching the culture and country before traveling

Egypt’s culture is largely Islamic, which implies it is traditional. It may be quite a cultural difference depending on where you’ve come from. Egypt is hot, loud, and boisterous, with traffic and people all over the place. It’s a gorgeous mess. The disadvantage is that people will be shouting at you all the time, urging you to take a cab, buy something, and hire them as a guide, and so on. To prevent this, It is mostly advisable you tour with a guide to a certain tourist spot or respectfully reply NO, or Lal Shukran in Arabic, which means no. Catcalling is sadly a part of this for women. On this front, I would take the high road and simply disregard it.

You should not pack culturally appropriate clothing

Yes, it’s scorching hot most of the year, and trying to cover up isn’t ideal when it’s that hot. You will also be a sweating mess because most temples are out in the open with no cover. However, given Egypt’s Islamic heritage, this is to be anticipated. Shorts, sloppy shirts, small skirts, and apparel that exposes too much skin are all no-nos. It’ll get a lot of attention, and it will be considered as insulting to the people. That doesn’t mean you have to dress in a burqa, but it’s better to bring loose, light, conventional attire that covers your shoulders, knees, and chest.

Here are some outfit tips:

• Cotton blouses and loose fitted trousers
• Maxi dress and skirts
• Strappy tops with your shoulders covered with a pashmina
• Jumpsuits

Not booking your Nile Cruise first

If you want to take a bucket-list Nile cruise while in Egypt, you should book that first before booking the rest of your trip. Nile cruises are only available on specific days of the week. It’s not a case of showing up and booking on the spot. At this time, there are no cruises departing from Cairo. From Luxor to Aswan and back, Nile cruises are available. The majority of the cruises will be three nights and four days from Aswan to Luxor or vice versa, or six nights and seven days from Aswan to Luxor and back. Some cruises only leave on Mondays or Wednesdays, while others only leave on Fridays. So, to avoid being disappointed, double-check your cruise dates, times, and pricing before making any other plans.

Not hiring a guide for a certain tourist sites

The monuments don’t strictly require a tour guide. It’s very simple to pay at the temple kiosks and navigate your way around. However, hiring a tour guide would assist you in avoiding a lot of abuse when touring the place. As a solitary female traveler, I found this to be quite beneficial!