Travel Guide to Egypt
A comprehensive guide to exploring Egypt – from the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx to the Valley of the Kings, ancient temples of Luxor, Nile River cruises, Red Sea diving and snorkeling, the Egyptian Museum, Khan el-Khalili bazaar, desert safaris, Egyptian cuisine, hotel costs, visa requirements, and essential healthcare and travel insurance information for safe exploration of this ancient civilization.
- What there is to do in Egypt
- Cultural experiences & natural wonders
- Seasonal attractions & adventure activities
- Quick profiles of major cities
- Hotel cost ranges
- Visa & entry requirements
- Healthcare costs & detailed insurance breakdown
Safety Ratings and Resources
Exercise increased caution in Egypt due to terrorism, crime, and health. Some areas have increased risk.
- The U.S. Embassy has limited ability to help dual national U.S.-Egyptian citizens who are arrested or detained.
- Egyptian law considers dual citizens to be solely Egyptian citizens.
Terrorism
There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Northern and Middle Sinai Peninsula. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning:
Egyptian authorities generally offer effective security protection. However, extremists continue to express interest in planning and carrying out attacks. Security is generally present at potential targets, which include:
- Religious sites (mosques, churches, monasteries, and buses traveling there)
- Local government buildings, and diplomatic facilities (embassies)
- Tourist sites
- Transportation centers
- Shopping malls
- Restaurants and foreign businesses
- Resorts
- Roadside checkpoints
- Urban areas in Cairo
Crime
Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, like purse snatching and pickpocketing. Harassment of women, including foreigners, is a problem in Egypt. It can include vulgar comments, gestures, indecent exposure, and unwanted physical contact. Tourists should beware of overcharging and scams in tourist areas. Review the Country Security Report for Egypt for further details.
Health
Emergency and intensive care facilities are limited in Egypt and may be unavailable in remote areas. Ambulances are rare, unreliable in most areas, and don’t have advanced medical equipment.
Global polio
Some international destinations, including Egypt, have circulating poliovirus. Before traveling to Egypt, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Check the CDC website for current vaccination recommendations.
Demonstrations
Protests or demonstrations may occur suddenly:
- Individuals have been arrested for being in the vicinity of protests in Egypt, even when not actively participating.
- U.S. citizens have been arrested for participating in protests.
- You may be detained for posting anything on social media seen as critical of Egypt or its allies, or for disrespecting its cultural sites.
- Local law prohibits protesting or demonstrating without a permit.
Do not travel to:
- The Northern and Middle Sinai Peninsula due to terrorism.
- The Western Desert due to risk to safety and security unless traveling with a professionally licensed tour company.
- Egyptian border areas due to military zones.
Widely reported sexual harassment issues and occasional assaults; weak protections and risk of victim-blaming.
View Women's Travel Safety Guide →Laws used to target LGBTQ people; entrapment via apps and media-driven crackdowns documented.
View LGBTQ+ Travel Safety Guide →
Egypt stands as one of humanity's most extraordinary destinations – home to 5,000 years of recorded history, iconic monuments that defined ancient civilization, and landscapes ranging from the fertile Nile Valley to the vast Sahara Desert and pristine Red Sea coral reefs. The sheer scale and age of Egypt's monuments is overwhelming: the Great Pyramid of Giza is 4,500 years old and was already ancient when Cleopatra ruled.
Major Cities in Japan
Cairo
Egypt's sprawling capital (population 20+ million in greater metro) is a chaotic, fascinating megalopolis where ancient history meets modern Middle Eastern urban energy. The traffic is legendary, the noise constant, and the energy palpable. Cairo contains must-see historical sites but can be overwhelming – plan rest days between sightseeing.
- Pyramids of Giza and Sphinx – last remaining Ancient Wonder, 4,500 years old, absolutely unmissable
- Egyptian Museum – world's finest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts including Tutankhamun treasures
- Khan el-Khalili bazaar – medieval market, labyrinthine streets, spices, gold, souvenirs, traditional cafes
- Islamic Cairo – Al-Azhar Mosque, Sultan Hassan Mosque, medieval architecture and mosques
- Coptic Cairo – ancient churches, Hanging Church, Ben Ezra Synagogue, Coptic Museum
- Saqqara – stepped pyramid of Djoser, older than Giza pyramids
- Zamalek and Garden City – upscale neighborhoods, Nile views, restaurants and cafes
- New Grand Egyptian Museum (opening) – massive new museum near pyramids
Luxor
Often called the world's greatest open-air museum, Luxor sits on the site of ancient Thebes, Egypt's capital during the New Kingdom (1550-1070 BCE). The density of archaeological sites is staggering – you could spend weeks exploring temples and tombs.
- Karnak Temple Complex – massive temple complex, largest ancient religious site in world
- Luxor Temple – beautiful temple on the Nile, stunning when illuminated at night
- Valley of the Kings – royal tombs including Tutankhamun's, carved into mountainside
- Valley of the Queens – including Nefertari's beautifully painted tomb
- Hatshepsut Temple – dramatic terraced temple of female pharaoh
- Colossi of Memnon – massive twin statues of Amenhotep III
- Hot air balloon rides at sunrise over temples and Nile – unforgettable experience
- West Bank villages – local life, artisan workshops, peaceful countryside
Aswan
Egypt's southernmost city has a more relaxed atmosphere than Cairo or Luxor, with beautiful Nile scenery, Nubian culture, and important temples. Aswan serves as the southern terminus for Nile cruises and gateway to Abu Simbel.
- Abu Simbel – massive rock-cut temples of Ramses II (day trip or overnight required)
- Philae Temple – beautiful island temple dedicated to Isis, reached by boat
- Nubian villages – colorful houses, distinct culture, traditional hospitality
- Felucca rides on the Nile – peaceful sailing on traditional wooden boats
- Elephantine Island – archaeological sites, Nubian Museum
- Aswan High Dam – massive modern dam creating Lake Nasser
- Unfinished Obelisk – shows ancient stone-cutting techniques
- Softer vibe than Cairo/Luxor – more relaxed pace, beautiful riverside setting
Sharm el-Sheikh
Egypt's premier Red Sea resort destination on the southern tip of Sinai Peninsula. Sharm is essentially a purpose-built resort complex with international hotels, dive centers, and beach clubs. It's a different Egypt – secular, touristy, and focused on beach holidays and diving.
- World-class diving and snorkeling – Ras Mohammed National Park, Tiran Island
- Naama Bay – main tourist area with restaurants, shops, and nightlife
- Shark's Bay – quieter beach area, good snorkeling
- Desert excursions to St. Catherine's Monastery and Mt. Sinai
- All-inclusive resorts – many tourists never leave resort compounds
- Duty-free shopping – Sharm is duty-free zone
- Year-round warm weather and beach season
- Security heavily focused on tourism – checkpoints throughout Sinai
Hurghada
Red Sea resort town on mainland coast, more accessible than Sharm and popular with European package tourists. Less upscale than Sharm but similar diving and beach focus. Hurghada has expanded massively with resort compounds stretching along the coast.
- Excellent diving – Giftun Islands, numerous dive sites, wreck diving
- Snorkeling day trips to islands and reefs
- Desert safari excursions to Bedouin villages
- Marina with restaurants and shops
- Kitesurfing and windsurfing – consistent wind
- More affordable than Sharm with similar offerings
- Easy access from Cairo (5-hour drive or 1-hour flight)
- Large Russian and European expat/tourist community
Alexandria
Egypt's second-largest city (population 5+ million) sits on the Mediterranean coast, founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BCE. Modern Alexandria is a Mediterranean city with different character from Cairo – more liberal, cosmopolitan, with Greek and Italian influences alongside Egyptian culture.
- Bibliotheca Alexandrina – stunning modern library honoring the ancient Library of Alexandria
- Corniche – pleasant Mediterranean waterfront promenade
- Qaitbay Citadel – 15th century fortress on site of ancient Pharos Lighthouse
- Montazah Palace gardens – beautiful seaside park
- Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa – ancient underground tombs blending Egyptian, Greek, Roman styles
- Seafood restaurants – excellent fresh Mediterranean fish
- More relaxed atmosphere than Cairo, Mediterranean vibe
- Summer beach destination for Egyptians
Dahab
Small, laid-back beach town on eastern Sinai coast, Dahab has evolved from Bedouin fishing village to bohemian backpacker haven. It retains a chilled-out vibe very different from Sharm's resort atmosphere. Dahab is famous among divers and freedivers worldwide.
- Blue Hole – world-famous dive site (and dangerous – many fatalities from exceeding limits)
- Excellent diving and snorkeling at reasonable prices
- Laid-back beach town atmosphere – cafes, hostels, yoga retreats
- Strong backpacker and long-term traveler community
- Windsurfing and kitesurfing center
- Desert excursions and Bedouin culture experiences
- Cheaper than Sharm/Hurghada with better community feel
- Freediving courses and world-class freediving sites
Siwa Oasis
Remote desert oasis near Libyan border, Siwa remained isolated until the 20th century and retains distinct Berber culture and Siwi language. The journey takes effort (8-10 hour drive from Cairo or Alexandria) but rewards with otherworldly landscapes and ancient history.
- Shali Fortress – ancient mud-brick citadel in town center
- Oracle Temple – where Alexander the Great consulted the oracle
- Cleopatra's Spring – natural spring-fed pool for swimming
- Great Sand Sea – massive desert dunes, safari excursions
- Date palm groves and olive orchards – Siwa's agricultural heart
- Salt lakes – unusual landscape features
- Distinct Berber/Siwi culture, traditional crafts
- Very remote and conservative – respect local customs
Hotel Costs in Japan
Budget Accommodations
- Hostel dorm beds: 150-350 EGP per night (roughly US$5-11)
- Budget hotels in Cairo/Luxor: 300-600 EGP per room (US$10-19)
- Basic guesthouses: 400-800 EGP per room (US$13-26)
- Budget Nile cruise (3-4 days): 4,000-8,000 EGP per person (US$129-258) all-inclusive
Mid-Range Accommodations
- 3-star hotels in cities: 800-2,000 EGP per room per night (US$26-65)
- Mid-range Nile cruise (4-5 days): 8,000-15,000 EGP per person (US$258-484) all-inclusive
- Red Sea mid-range resorts: 1,500-3,500 EGP per night (US$48-113), often all-inclusive
- Boutique hotels in Cairo/Alexandria: 1,200-2,500 EGP per room (US$39-81)
Luxury Accommodations
- 5-star hotels in Cairo (Four Seasons, Marriott): 3,000-8,000+ EGP per night (US$97-258+)
- Luxury Nile cruises (Oberoi, Sonesta): 20,000-50,000+ EGP per person for 4-5 days (US$645-1,613+) all-inclusive
- Red Sea luxury resorts (Four Seasons Sharm, Kempinski): 4,000-15,000+ EGP per night (US$129-484+)
- Historic luxury hotels (Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor, Old Cataract Aswan): 3,500-10,000 EGP per night (US$113-323)
Peak season (October-April) sees prices increase 30-50%, especially December-February when European tourists escape to warm Red Sea. Summer (May-September) offers huge discounts (40-60% off) due to extreme heat (40-45°C/104-113°F) in southern Egypt. Nile cruises are cheapest May-September but heat can be brutal. Red Sea resorts maintain steadier year-round pricing. Egyptian pound fluctuations can affect prices significantly – check current exchange rates.
Visa & Entry Requirements
- Travel insurance is not legally required for entry but is absolutely essential given medical evacuation costs and security situation.
- Proof of sufficient funds and return ticket may be requested.
- Hotel reservation or invitation letter sometimes requested at immigration.
Additional visa information
- E-visa available online ($25 USD single entry, $60 USD multiple entry) for 70+ nationalities including US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia; recommended over visa on arrival.
- Visa on arrival available at major airports for $25 USD cash; can have long queues.
- Sinai-only entry available at Sharm el-Sheikh airport (free for 14 days but restricted to Sinai Peninsula only).
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from entry date.
- Photography of military sites, bridges, and government buildings is illegal and can result in arrest.
Healthcare & Medical Information
Healthcare overview
Egypt has two-tiered healthcare: private hospitals in Cairo and Alexandria offer good quality care with English-speaking doctors but require upfront payment; tourist areas (Luxor, Aswan, Red Sea) have basic clinics adequate only for minor issues. Medical costs are low by Western standards (doctor visits $10-26, hospital stays $65-194/day) but medical evacuation costs are astronomical ($30,000-80,000 to Europe, $100,000-200,000+ to US). Serious medical emergencies often require evacuation given limited facilities outside top Cairo hospitals. Gastrointestinal illness affects 30-50% of visitors. Dehydration risk high in extreme heat. Diving accidents require hyperbaric chambers (available in Sharm/Hurghada). Travel insurance with minimum $100,000 medical and $250,000+ evacuation coverage absolutely essential.
Typical medical costs
- Private clinic doctor visit: 300-800 EGP ($10-26 USD)
- Private hospital ER visit: 500-1,500 EGP ($16-48 USD)
- Overnight hospital stay (private): 2,000-6,000 EGP per day ($65-194 USD)
- Emergency surgery: 15,000-80,000 EGP ($484-2,581 USD)
- Decompression chamber (diving): $1,000-5,000 USD
- Medical evacuation to Europe: $30,000-80,000 USD
- Medical evacuation to US: $100,000-200,000+ USD
Travel Insurance Recommendations
While travel insurance is not always required, it's recommended for international travel to protect against unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other travel-related issues.
Common travel issues to consider
- Gastrointestinal illness from food/water - extremely common, affects 30-50% of visitors
- Medical evacuation for serious conditions exceeding local hospital capabilities
- Diving accidents requiring decompression chamber treatment in Red Sea
- Trip cancellations due to political situation or travel advisories
- Dehydration and heat-related illness requiring hospitalization
- Lost or stolen electronics and cameras at tourist sites
- Delayed or cancelled flights on Egyptian carriers
Recommended providers
Consider comparing policies from multiple providers to find coverage that matches your travel needs.
Emergency Contacts
Emergency Services
122 (police), 123 (ambulance), 180 (fire)
US Embassy Cairo
+20 2 2797 3300
Tourist Police
126