Egypt

Birthplace of the pharaohs, Egypt captivates with its ancient pyramids, temples carved along the Nile and colorful reefs in the Red Sea. Between endless desert and fertile valleys, this country offers a timeless journey, blending ancient history with vibrant modern life.

Why visit Egypt?

Egypt is home to some of antiquity's greatest monuments, including the Pyramids of Giza and the temples of Luxor and Karnak. The Nile runs the length of the country, offering cruises and fertile landscapes amid the desert. The Red Sea adds renowned diving sites to the experience.

What to discover in Egypt?

In Cairo, the Giza plateau reveals its pyramids and the Sphinx, while the Egyptian Museum and the new Grand Egyptian Museum house priceless collections spanning millennia of pharaonic history. Further south, Luxor and Karnak preserve monumental temples adorned with massive columns and hieroglyphs, and the Valley of the Kings holds the richly decorated tombs of numerous pharaohs. A Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan reveals villages, temples and farmland from the water, along a river that has shaped the whole of Egyptian history.
The Sinai Peninsula and the Red Sea draw divers and sun-seekers alike, with destinations such as Sharm El Sheikh and Dahab known for their coral reefs and clear waters. The Western Desert, with its oases and rock formations, reveals another side of the country, quieter and more mineral, far from the bustle of the major cities. Between ancient heritage, life along the Nile and a preserved coastline, Egypt lends itself to a wide range of itineraries, whether the focus is cultural discovery, beach relaxation or desert adventure.

Cities to visit in Egypt

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Egypt in pictures

Egypt highlights

A few iconic experiences to make the most of your trip to Egypt.

Pyramids of Giza

See the pyramids of Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure along with the Sphinx, the most famous remains of ancient Egypt, just outside Cairo.

Nile cruise

Sail between Luxor and Aswan to view temples, villages and farmland along the river that has shaped the country's history.

Luxor and Karnak temples

Admire the monumental columns and colossal statues of these religious complexes, among the largest ever built in antiquity along the Nile.

Valley of the Kings

Explore the richly decorated tombs of pharaohs such as Tutankhamun, carved into the rock on Luxor's west bank near the Nile.

Red Sea diving

Enjoy the coral reefs and exceptional marine life around Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab or Marsa Alam, among the best diving spots in the country.

Desert and oases

Venture into the oases of the Western Desert, among dunes, hot springs and rock formations sculpted by the wind over centuries.

Practical information

Capital
Cairo
Area
about 1,002,450 km²
Population
about 105 million
Language
Arabic
Currency
Egyptian pound (EGP)
Time zone
UTC+2
Climate
Hot desert, mild winters
Best season
October to April

Frequently asked questions about Egypt

What is the best time to visit Egypt?
October to April is generally preferred, with milder temperatures for visiting archaeological sites. Summer remains very hot, especially in the south, but suits beach stays along the Red Sea, particularly around Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada.
Do I need a visa to visit Egypt?
Most visitors need a visa, available on arrival or online depending on nationality. It's best to check the specific requirements with Egyptian authorities before departing, since rules can vary depending on length of stay and purpose of visit.
How many days should I plan for a trip to Egypt?
One to two weeks allow you to combine Cairo, a Nile cruise and a beach stay on the Red Sea. A shorter trip can focus on Cairo and Luxor alone.
Can tourists travel the Nile?
Yes, many cruises connect Luxor and Aswan, offering a comfortable way to discover temples and landscapes along the river, often over several days, with stops to visit archaeological sites and villages along the way.
Is the Red Sea suitable for beginner divers?
Many centers offer training and guided dives for all levels, particularly around Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab and Marsa Alam, known for their coral reefs and rich variety of marine life suited even to beginners.
What language is spoken in Egypt?
Arabic is the official language. English is widely understood in tourist areas, making travel and communication easier for visitors, particularly in hotels, archaeological sites and shops and markets in major cities.

Plan your trip to Egypt

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