Things To Do
in Egypt
Egypt, a transcontinental country spanning the northeast corner of Africa and southwest corner of Asia, is renowned for its millennia-old monuments, including the Great Pyramids of Giza and the colossal Sphinx. The capital, Cairo, is home to Ottoman landmarks like Muhammad Ali Mosque and the Egyptian Museum, a treasure trove of antiquities.
Along the fertile Nile Valley, the lifeblood of the country, Egypt's rich history unfolds, from ancient pharaohs to its roles in the evolution of Christianity and Islam.
- "Ahlan wa sahlan" - Welcome
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "La shukran" - No, thank you
- "Min fadlak" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Great Pyramids of Giza. Enjoy a guided tour and take plenty of photos with the Sphinx.
Head to the Egyptian Museum to see ancient artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun. Take your time exploring the exhibitions and learning about Egypt's history.
Wrap up your day with a dinner cruise on the Nile River. Savor delicious Egyptian cuisine while enjoying entertainment and stunning views.
Fly to Luxor and visit the Valley of the Kings. Explore the tombs of pharaohs and marvel at the intricate hieroglyphs.
Visit the Temple of Hatshepsut, a stunning mortuary temple built for Egypt's first female pharaoh. Take in the architectural beauty and the surrounding landscape.
Enjoy the sound and light show at the Karnak Temple. It's a magical experience that combines history with dramatic lighting.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and culture, including ancient monuments like the Pyramids and the Sphinx.
- Diverse landscapes, including deserts, the Nile River, and beautiful beaches along the Red Sea.
- A warm climate that attracts tourists year-round.
- A growing economy with opportunities in tourism, agriculture, and energy sectors.
- Strategic geographic location that serves as a crossroads between Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.
- Political instability and security concerns that can affect safety and tourism.
- High levels of poverty and unemployment in some areas.
- Environmental issues, including water scarcity and pollution.
- Traffic congestion and inadequate infrastructure in urban areas.
- Bureaucratic challenges and corruption that can hinder business operations.
Best Activities in Egypt
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs in the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea.
Embark on a unique desert adventure and experience the beauty of the Egyptian desert while riding a camel.
Visit one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and marvel at the iconic pyramids and Sphinx.
Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Nile River, taking in the picturesque landscapes and ancient historic sites along the way.
Tours
Uncover the best of Egypt with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Egypt
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of the ancient monument and surrounding desert.
Features impressive ancient ruins and grandiose architecture, perfect for photography.
Boasts picturesque beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, ideal for capturing scenic landscapes and underwater shots.
Showcases ancient tombs and breathtaking desert scenery, providing unique photographic opportunities.
Known for their colossal statues and intricate carvings, offering magnificent photo opportunities.
Food in Egypt
Egypt Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular Egyptian street food that is a hearty vegetarian dish made with rice, lentils, chickpeas, fried onions, and pasta; usually served with a spicy tomato sauce and garlic vinegar on the side. Recommended place to try: Abu Tarek in Cairo.
Must-Try!
A traditional Egyptian breakfast dish made from slowly simmered fava beans, typically seasoned with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil and served with pita bread. Recommended place to try: El Tabei El Domyati in Cairo.
It consists of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchinis, and grape leaves stuffed with a tantalizing mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes minced meat, served with tomato sauce. Recommended place to try: Farhat in Alexandria.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Egypt better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the oldest and most famous markets in the Middle East, offering a wide variety of street food options, authentic Egyptian spices, and traditional sweets in the heart of Cairo.
Found in the streets near Luxor Temple, these stalls offer a great opportunity to sample local street food such as taameya (Egyptian falafel), kofta, and sweet treats such as basbousa and qatayef.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Egypt, it is common to greet others with a handshake and a verbal greeting. It is important to use a person's title and surname when addressing them formally, and show respect by using traditional greetings such as 'As-salamu alaykum' (Peace be upon you).
Respecting elders is a significant cultural norm in Egypt. It is important to show deference and address older individuals with courtesy and respect. It is customary to stand when an elder enters the room as a sign of respect.
Egyptians generally dress conservatively, particularly in more traditional and rural areas. It is advisable for visitors to respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural communities.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Egypt with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Egypt
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Egypt, especially in the service industry. It is customary to tip restaurant servers, hotel staff, tour guides, and other service providers. The usual tip is around 10-15% of the total bill.
In Egypt, the most common forms of payment are cash and credit/debit cards. Cash is widely used for smaller transactions, while larger purchases and transactions can be done with cards. Mobile payment services and digital wallets are also gaining popularity in urban areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Egypt.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and blooming flora make it an ideal time for sightseeing and exploring historical sites.
Another great time to visit with pleasant temperatures and smaller crowds, particularly in October, making it perfect for visiting popular attractions without the summer heat.
Egypt at Night
Hiking in Egypt
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A historically significant mountain in the Sinai Peninsula, known for its religious significance and breathtaking views. It offers several hiking trails with varying difficulty.
An extraordinary landscape featuring chalk rock formations. It offers unique hiking opportunities amidst surreal natural scenery.
Located near Saint Catherine, this mountain is famous for its panoramic views and is a popular destination for both pilgrims and hikers.
A protected area near Cairo that offers hiking trails amid stunning geological formations and diverse flora and fauna.
Located by the Red Sea, these mountains provide a mix of hiking trails with stunning sea views and desert landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Egypt through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Egypt by plane.
Egypt's primary international airport located in Cairo, serving as a major hub for international and domestic flights.
An international airport located in Hurghada, serving the Red Sea resort area and offering flights to various international destinations.
Located in Sharm El Sheikh, this airport caters primarily to tourists heading to the Red Sea resorts and offers international flights.
Situated near Luxor, this airport serves travelers visiting the ancient sites of Luxor and the Valley of the Kings.
An international airport located in Borg El Arab, serving the Alexandria region and providing flights to various international destinations.
An airport located in Aswan, catering to both domestic and international flights, especially for tourists visiting southern Egypt.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Egypt, comprising about 95% of the population. They are primarily descended from the indigenous Egyptians and Arab settlers.
Indigenous to North Africa, Berbers in Egypt represent a smaller segment of the population, primarily found in Siwa Oasis.
An ethnic group primarily located in the southern regions of Egypt, with a rich history and culture linked to the Nile River.
Egypt's indigenous Christian community, making up about 10% of the population. They trace their heritage back to Ancient Egypt.
A small historic community that has existed in Egypt for centuries, particularly in Alexandria, although their numbers have diminished.
A small ethnic group with a notable historical presence in Egypt, particularly in urban centers, contributing to trade and culture.
Some Sudanese people live in Egypt, often due to migration or as refugees, contributing to the demographic diversity.
Includes various groups such as Italian, French, and other expatriate communities, albeit in smaller numbers.
The Soul of Egypt
Discover the essence of Egypt through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Egypt, with a passionate fan base and a rich history, including successful clubs and a national team that has won the Africa Cup of Nations multiple times.
Basketball has been gaining popularity in Egypt, with a growing number of clubs and an active national league, along with participation in international competitions.
Handball is a well-followed sport in Egypt, with the national team achieving success in Africa and competing in the World Championships.
Volleyball is popular both as an indoor and beach sport, and Egypt has produced competitive teams that participate in continental championships.
Squash enjoys significant popularity in Egypt, with the country producing many top-ranking players in the world, particularly in professional circuits.
Tennis has a presence in Egypt, with local tournaments and players competing in regional and international events.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Egyptian cuisine offers a variety of vegetarian dishes like stuffed grape leaves, falafel, and grilled vegetables. Additionally, many local eateries provide vegan options such as koshari and ful medames.
While many traditional dishes contain bread, it is possible to find gluten-free options like grilled meats, salads, and rice-based dishes. It’s advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly to the restaurant staff.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Egypt with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Egypt.