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Country Facts

Capital

Cairo

Size

1,002,450 km2 (387,050 sq mi)

Time Zone

GMT +2h; Summer +1h

Population

116,538,258

Currency

Egyptian pound

Egypt

Egypt is one of the world’s most captivating tourist destinations, famous for its ancient history, stunning desert landscapes, and vibrant culture. As the cradle of one of the oldest civilizations, Egypt offers visitors a unique chance to explore a rich cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years. Tourism in Egypt is primarily driven by the country’s world-renowned pyramids, temples, and tombs as well as its stunning Nile River cruises and Red Sea resorts.

Reasons to visit Egypt:

  • The Pyramids of Giza & The Sphinx: One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, these colossal structures near Cairo are the most iconic symbols of Egypt.
  • The Egyptian Museum in Cairo: Housing the world’s largest collection of pharaonic antiquities, including treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb.
  • Luxor & The Valley of the Kings: Known as the world’s largest open-air museum, Luxor is home to the Temple of Karnak, Luxor Temple, and the royal tombs in the Valley of the Kings.
  • Aswan & Abu Simbel: Famous for its scenic Nile views, ancient temples like Philae, and the spectacular rock-cut temples of Abu Simbel.
  • Nile River Cruises: Exploring Egypt’s historical treasures while floating on the Nile between Luxor and Aswan is a magical experience.
  • Red Sea Resorts (Sharm El-Sheikh & Hurghada): Popular for their crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life, these are perfect for diving and beach holidays.
  • Alexandria: This coastal city offers Mediterranean charm with historical sites like the Library of Alexandria and the Roman Amphitheatre.

Other Experiences:

  • Desert Safaris: Explore the vast Egyptian deserts with guided tours to the White Desert, Siwa Oasis, and the Great Sand Sea.
  • Islamic Cairo: Discover medieval mosques, bazaars, and the ancient Citadel in this historical heart of Cairo.
  • Coptic Cairo: A rich spiritual hub, offering visits to ancient churches like the Hanging Church and the Coptic Museum.

Egypt combines ancient wonders with modern experiences, making it a compelling destination for history buffs, adventure seekers, and beach lovers alike.

 

Preparing For A Trip To Egypt?

Visa Information / Entry requirements to Egypt

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Egypt’s current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Egypt set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Egyptian Consulate General in the UK.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Egypt, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive and have at least one blank page.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

British passport holders travelling to Egypt normally need a visa.

If you are staying for less than 15 days at resorts in Sharm el Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba or Taba, you do not need a visa. You will get a free entry permission stamp on arrival. If you plan to travel outside the resorts or stay more than 15 days, you must get a visa. You can get a visa at Sharm el Sheikh airport or online.

Applying for a visa

You can apply for a visa:

  • online – getting an e-visa in advance can help to prevent delays, tourist e-visas are valid for up to 3 months
  • in person or by post – apply through the Egyptian Consulate General in the UK
  • on arrival in Egypt – approved airports have kiosks in the arrival hall before you reach the immigration counters where you can buy a visa for 25 US dollars (cash only – Egyptian officials prefer dollars, but you may be able to pay in British pounds or euros, visas on arrival are valid for up to 30 days)

British passport holders from British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies cannot apply online.

Visa extensions

You can apply for a visa extension at the Egyptian Passport and Immigration Offices. If you try to leave Egypt on an expired visa, you may face difficulties. You may get a fine if your visa has expired by more than 14 days. Contact the Egyptian Consulate General in the UK for more information.

Visa agents in airports

You do not need to buy a visa from an agent. Agents often charge more than the required 25 US dollars. If an agent harasses you, report the incident to the tourist police in the airport terminal.

Egypt-Sudan border crossing

If you cross the border from Sudan, you can get a visa on arrival for 25 US dollars (cash only).

If you are a British national and have crossed the border without valid documentation, contact the British Embassy in Cairo on + 20 (0) 2 2791 6000. See Regional risks.

Vaccine requirements

To enter Egypt, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Egypt guide.

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Tourism Health Information – Egypt

Before you travel check that:

  • your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
  • you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 123 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

See what health risks you’ll face in Egypt, including:

  • dengue
  • tick-borne diseases such as Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Egypt. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Some prescribed and over-the-counter medicines may be controlled substances in Egypt. You may need permission from Egypt’s Ministry of Health before you arrive. If you do not have prior permission or the required documentation, you will not be allowed to take the medication into Egypt and you may be prosecuted.

If you travel with prescription medication, carry a letter from your GP stating the:

  • condition you’re being treated for
  • amount of medication you will be carrying
  • medication is for your personal use only

For further information, contact the Egyptian Consulate General in the UK.

Healthcare in Egypt

Some hotel doctors have overcharged for treatment and medicines. Check your bill closely for excessive charges. Pharmacies outside hotels will often supply medication at lower prices.

Access to specialised treatment for psychiatric illness is limited and may not be available outside major cities.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Egypt where some staff will speak English.

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Weather & When To Go To Egypt

Egypt has a predominantly hot desert climate, with hot summers and mild winters. However, the weather can vary significantly depending on the region, especially between the coastal areas, the Nile Valley, and the deserts.

Seasons Overview:

  • Summer (May – September):
    • Extremely hot, especially in Upper Egypt (Luxor, Aswan) where temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F).
    • Cairo and the Nile Delta are also quite warm but more manageable.
    • The Red Sea and Mediterranean coasts (Sharm El-Sheikh, Hurghada, Alexandria) offer pleasant beach weather with cooler sea breezes, making summer a good time for diving or beach vacations.
  • Winter (October – April):
    • The best time to visit Egypt, especially for exploring cultural and historical sites.
    • Cairo and the Nile Valley enjoy mild temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
    • Nights can be cool, especially in the desert, so packing layers is recommended.
    • This is the most comfortable time for sightseeing in Luxor, Aswan, and Giza.

Best Time to Visit:

  • October to April is the ideal period to visit Egypt, offering mild weather perfect for sightseeing.
  • For travelers interested in beach activities and diving in the Red Sea resorts, May to September is also great, although it can be hot inland.

Read More On Visas

Tailor-Made Holidays

At Earth Trip we will design and plan your personalised itinerary according to the exact requirements of your trip. Whether you prefer to be on a mountaintop or under a waterfall; wake up in the middle of a jungle or have a picnic with locals in the tea plantations – we select the accommodation and activities in order to suit not only your preferences, but also your budget.

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