FAQ

While Egypt is beautiful year round, there are certain months where the weather is more conducive to travel. The peak time to visit Egypt is from October to April when the weather is the mildest. December and January are when most tourists come and sites are extremely crowded.

If you are looking to book a vacation to Egypt there are several things you should consider. The first is the weather. We are an African country and it can get extremely hot here so coming between October and April is definitely the most comfortable. The summer months are still manageable, though the heat is very dry with high temperatures both at night and during the day. If you choose to come during the summer, make sure you are hydrating and wearing plenty of sunscreen.

The second is cost. Because our peak season occurs during Egypt’s mild season, the cost is higher at that time. Booking a vacation out of season can decrease both the cost of travel and crowds at popular tourist spots.

The third consideration you should make is for festivals or special events happening. The majority of Egypt is Muslim and there are several holy days with amazing festivals throughout the year. It can be a great cultural experience to enjoy one of these festivals.

There are two main festivals: Abu Simbel Sun Festival and Ramadan. Abu Simbel Sun Festival is a MUST see and might even be worth planning your trip around. The temples of Abu Simbel honor King Ramses II. Twice a year, On King Ramses II’s  birthday and ascension to the throne, October 21 and February 21 respectively, the sun aligns perfectly to illuminate the temple’s inner sanctum. This festival should be on your bucket list.

Ramadan is another great time. It is a Muslim time of holiness where they fast during the day and celebrate breaking their fast every night. This is an extremely holy time for the religion of Islam where Muslims spend almost a month fasting during the day, reading the Koran, and visiting their mosque. In major cities around Egypt, there is a nightly celebration of breaking the fast. There is a massive feeling of community with bright tents, delicious food and drinks (no alcohol), and plenty of celebrating. Ramadan is based on the lunar calendar so the dates are different each year.

As you can tell, there really isn’t a bad time to visit Egypt, but there may be a time you prefer more than others. Make sure to weigh your priorities and options before choosing when to travel. Have questions? Ask us!

If you don’t like the idea of obtaining your visa upon landing in Egypt, you can apply for one in advance at your local Egyptian Consulate or Embassy. Be sure to research what documents you will need and how long it takes them to process the visa application to ensure you have it before your trip! You can also get an e-Visa online at visa2egypt.gov.eg

Many of the shops in Egypt are open at around 10 AM until 10 PM. However, shops, cafes, and

restaurants especially in larger cities stay open much later

Most of the historical sites and museums in Egypt allow photography, but some add extra charges for taking in a camera into museums, like the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, and some ancient sites, like the Valley of the Kings in Luxor. At these locations photography is prohibited and visitors are asked to leave their cameras in the reception area before entering.

Monuments, historical sites, and museums are open from 9 AM until 5 PM. Open-air historical sites, like the Pyramids of Giza, are open from 8 AM until sunset. Some museums have morning and evening hours 9 AM to 4 PM and from 5 PM to 9 or 10 PM. During the holy month of the Islamic calendar, Ramadan, be aware that these hours will change significantly.

Egypt has been one of the safest tourist destinations for decades. Surrounded by warm Egyptian hospitality and courteous and kind-hearted locals, you’re going to feel at home and safe. Sensible precautions should always be taken. You will be able to explore Egypt’ tours and trips very safely. Boasting an usually low crime rate visitors will be more than safe especially in areas frequently visited by tourists

Many hotels and public places have Wi-Fi and you’ll usually be able to stay connected throughout your journey, although Internet access may be poor to nonexistent in remote areas. When that is the case, Egyptoria will provide you with an internet portable device.

Note: photography is not permitted in some locations and is usually clearly marked. If in doubt, ask your guide to avoid having your camera confiscated. Be sure to ask permission before taking pictures of local people, including small children.

Fear not, Egyptians living in Cities have a basic command of the English language and some English words and phrases. However, the same cannot be said for French, Italian, Spanish and German. Nevertheless, Professionals working in the tourism industry adapt easily to visitors who don’t speak Arabic. Satisfying the needs of most travelers with a combination of English as well as other languages.

All prescribed and over-the-counter medications should be in their original containers and taken in your carry-on luggage. Pack a simple first-aid kit along with medicines for motion sickness and mild upset stomach. As a precaution, use only bottled water and avoid foods from street vendors. Take care to observe safe health practices when travelling: Wash or sanitize your hands often; avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, and cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing. If you begin to feel unwell at any point in your masks must be worn in accordance with local regulations. We encourage you to bring your own masks; a supply will be on hand where needed. Note all protocols are subject to change in accordance with relevant guidelines, local regulations and conditions.

ATM access is widespread in cities and towns, but may be limited in rural areas. All major credit cards are widely accepted for goods and services. Cash transactions can be made in either US dollars or local currency.

When you arrive your passport needs to be valid for at least six (6) months after your journey is

complete and should have a minimum of one (1) blank visa page for entry and exit stamps.

A tourist visa is required for US and Canadian passport holders for entry into Egypt.

Tourist visa upon arrival: A tourist visa can be obtained on arrival at Cairo International Airport (CAI).

The current fee for a single-entry visa is USD $25 (subject to change without notice) and must be paid in cash in US dollars.

COVID-19 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Visit: travel.state.gov/COVID-19 for country-specific COVID-19 information, including up-to-date entry requirements for Egypt or any other travel. Entry requirements for Egypt will be sent to you with your final documents, as they are subject to change.