Egypt tours & tailor-made trips

Egypt receives millions of visitors each year, and major tourist areas are generally well managed for travelers. However, the US State Department recommends increased caution in some areas, including the Northern and Middle Sinai Peninsula, the Western Desert, and Egyptian border areas. Always check the latest travel advisory and purchase comprehensive travel insurance before you go.

October through April is usually the best time to visit Egypt, when temperatures are cooler and sightseeing is more comfortable. December and January are the peak tourist season, particularly around the ancient sites of Luxor and Aswan. Summer can be extremely hot, especially in Upper Egypt, though the Red Sea resorts remain popular year-round for diving and beach vacations.

US citizens need a visa to enter Egypt. An e-visa is usually the easiest option, which can be applied for online before departure. You can also obtain a 30-day tourist visa on arrival for a fee at major airports, though applying in advance is recommended. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. Always verify current requirements before you travel.

Egypt is in northeastern Africa, bordered by Libya to the west, Sudan to the south, and Israel and the Gaza Strip to the northeast. The Sinai Peninsula bridges Africa and Asia, with the Red Sea to the east and the Mediterranean Sea to the north. Cairo sits near the Nile Delta and is the main gateway for most trips to Egypt.

Egypt uses the Egyptian pound (EGP). Cash is common, especially outside major hotels and tourist sites, so it helps to keep some local currency on hand. ATMs are available in cities and resort areas. US dollars and euros are accepted in many tourist businesses, though paying in Egyptian pounds typically gets you a better rate.

Arabic is the official language of Egypt, with Egyptian Arabic the most widely spoken dialect. English is widely understood in hotels and major tourist areas, especially in Cairo, Luxor, and Red Sea resorts. French is also spoken in some areas. Outside major tourist hubs, Arabic is the predominant language, and a few basic phrases are warmly appreciated.

Egypt is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks. The Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, the temples of Luxor and Karnak, and the treasures of the Egyptian Museum in Cairo all showcase its ancient history. Beyond these sites, the Red Sea is known for world-class diving, the Nile for scenic cruises, and the White Desert for its striking white rock formations.