Pharaonic monuments, Nile journeys and Red Sea resorts
Egypt Travel Guide
Combine Cairo, Luxor, Aswan and Red Sea destinations for archaeology, Nile scenery and beach time.
- Cairo pyramids
- Nile temples
- Red Sea
- Ancient history
Essential travel information
All About Egypt
Practical information about regions, seasons, transportation, currency, languages and tipping before planning your vacation.
Egypt FAQLearn what Egypt is known for, where to visit, how long to stay and what travelers should expect.
What is Egypt known for?
Egypt is known for the pyramids, temples, tombs, Nile River and Red Sea diving.
Travel spans ancient history, museums, cruises, desert excursions and resort stays.
What are the best places to visit in Egypt?
Choose destinations according to the time available and whether you want to emphasize cities, coast, wildlife, culture or natural landscapes.
How many days should I spend in Egypt?
Approximately 8-12 days for Cairo, Luxor/Aswan and one Red Sea stay.
Tripmasters vacation packages are customizable, allowing travelers to select nights, hotels, transportation and activities in each destination.
What currency is used in Egypt?
Egyptian pound (EGP).
Which languages are spoken in Egypt?
Arabic is the official language; English is common in major tourism areas.
Best Time to Visit EgyptCompare seasons according to weather, wildlife, beaches, outdoor activities and visitor demand.
When is the best time to visit Egypt?
Winter and shoulder seasons are generally most comfortable for archaeological sightseeing.
December – February
Winter
Cooler conditions suit cultural sightseeing, desert excursions and historic cities, while evenings can be cold inland.
Best for: Cities, archaeology and desert travel.
March – May
Spring
Generally comfortable temperatures make this one of the strongest periods for city and regional touring.
Best for: Historic sites, road trips and outdoor sightseeing.
June – August
Summer
Hot conditions dominate inland areas, while coastlines and resorts are busiest.
Best for: Beaches and carefully paced cultural travel.
September – November
Autumn
Temperatures moderate after summer and visitor demand often becomes easier to manage.
Best for: City sightseeing, desert routes and shoulder-season travel.
Tipping in EgyptUnderstand gratuities in restaurants, hotels, taxis and guided tours.
Is tipping customary in Egypt?
Tipping or baksheesh is deeply embedded in many tourism services and small interactions.
Which currency should I use?
Use the local currency or another legally accepted currency appropriate to the destination for routine payments and gratuities.
Restaurants, cafes and bars
Around 5-10% is a practical guideline for good service when a service charge is not already included.
Hotel staff
Small gratuities are appreciated for porters, housekeeping and particularly helpful service.
Taxi drivers
Rounding up or leaving a modest amount is appropriate where tipping is customary; use reputable taxi services.
Tour guides
Guides and drivers appreciate discretionary gratuities after a strong private or full-day experience.
Check bills for included service before adding an additional gratuity.
Getting Around EgyptCompare flights, cars, buses, trains, ferries and transfers according to the itinerary.
What is the best way to travel around Egypt?
Domestic flights, Nile cruises, trains, private transfers and resort flights all play roles depending on the route.
What should I verify before traveling?
- Use licensed guides and transfers
- Carry small Egyptian-pound notes for gratuities
- Plan midday heat carefully
- Confirm domestic flight schedules
- Dress appropriately at religious sites
- Check current entry requirements
Build transportation around the actual route rather than assuming one mode works throughout the country.
Cities and regional gateways
Top Destinations in Egypt
Explore the principal Tripmasters destinations in Egypt, then continue through additional cities, resorts, islands, parks or regional gateways where available.
Featured destination
Cairo
A primary gateway to the culture, landscapes and travel experiences of Egypt.
- Cairo pyramids
- Nile temples
- Red Sea
- Ancient history
Upper Egypt
Aswan
A key Tripmasters destination offering a distinct introduction to the landscapes, culture and travel experiences of Egypt.
Explore AswanUpper Egypt
Luxor
A key Tripmasters destination offering a distinct introduction to the landscapes, culture and travel experiences of Egypt.
Explore LuxorRed Sea
Hurghada
A key Tripmasters destination offering a distinct introduction to the landscapes, culture and travel experiences of Egypt.
Explore HurghadaMore Destinations in Egypt
Continue exploring destinations currently available through Tripmasters.
Prepare for your vacation
What to Expect While Traveling
Review Tripmasters guides covering flights, accommodations, transportation and sightseeing so you can understand each component of your Egypt vacation.
Before departure
Air Travel
Review check-in, baggage, airline schedules, connections and other preparations for international and regional flights.
Accommodations
Hotels
Understand hotel categories, room arrangements, check-in procedures and services commonly encountered during a vacation.
Independent travel
Rental Cars
Review rental requirements, vehicle collection, insurance and practical considerations for road travel.
Local connections
Transfers
Learn how airport, hotel and station transfers work and what to verify before meeting a transportation provider.
Rail transportation
Train Travel
Review the role of rail in your itinerary and when buses, flights, ferries or private transfers are more practical.
Activities and experiences
Sightseeing Tours
Review meeting points, vouchers, schedules and practical details associated with booked excursions and activities.
Continue exploring destinations, regions and practical travel information across Africa with Tripmasters.
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