Discover Egypt: A Land of Ancient Wonders and Timeless BeautyTop Cities to Explore

Egypt, the cradle of civilization, beckons travelers with its remarkable tapestry of ancient wonders and breathtaking landscapes. From the awe-inspiring pyramids of Giza to the majestic temples of Luxor, this North African gem offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With a rich heritage that dates back thousands of years, Egypt invites you to explore its vibrant cities, where the past and present coexist in harmony.

As you journey through this captivating land, you will encounter bustling markets, serene Nile cruises, and the warm hospitality of its people. Whether you're wandering through the bustling streets of Cairo or soaking in the tranquility of the Red Sea, each moment in Egypt unveils a story waiting to be discovered. Join us as we unveil the top cities to explore, revealing the treasures and experiences that make Egypt a must-visit destination for every traveler.

●  Cairo: Egypt’s bustling capital, home to the iconic Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum.

●  Alexandria: A Mediterranean coastal city known for its ancient library, the Citadel of Qaitbay, and vibrant seafront.

●  Luxor: Often called the "world’s greatest open-air museum," it is famous for the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple.

●  Aswan: A scenic city along the Nile, offering a gateway to Abu Simbel and the beautiful Philae Temple.

Language and Dialects

The official language is Arabic, but English and French are commonly spoken in tourist areas.

Egyptian Arabic is the local dialect, and it's widely understood across the country.

Cultural Etiquette

●  Greetings: Egyptians greet with a handshake, but close friends may hug. Modesty is highly valued, particularly in rural areas.

●  Dress Code: Women should dress modestly, especially in religious or rural areas. Men typically wear long trousers.

●  Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of locals, particularly in rural areas.

Safety Tips for Travelers

●  Stay in groups: Particularly when visiting tourist attractions.

●  Be cautious of scams: Especially in busy markets or near major tourist sites.

●  Water safety: Drink only bottled water and avoid ice in drinks.

●  Transportation: Use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps to ensure safe travel around

cities.

Emergency Contacts

●  Police: 122

●  Ambulance: 123

●  Tourist Police: 126

●  Fire: 180

Airport and Border Restrictions

You will need a tourist visa to enter Egypt, which can be obtained online or upon arrival.

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months, and carry proof of accommodation.

7-Day Itinerary

●  Day 1: Arrive in Cairo and visit the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.

●  Day 2: Explore the Egyptian Museum and Khan el-Khalili Bazaar.

●  Day 3: Travel to Alexandria for a day trip, visiting the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and the

Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa.

●  Day 4: Fly to Luxor and explore the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple.

●  Day 5: Visit the Luxor Temple and take a Nile River cruise.

●  Day 6: Travel to Aswan, and visit the Philae Temple and Nubian villages.

●  Day 7: Optional trip to Abu Simbel before heading back to Cairo.

Accommodation Options

●  Luxury: Four Seasons Cairo, Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan

●  Mid-range: Marriott Mena House, Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa

●  Budget: Hostels, Airbnb, local guesthouses

Getting Around

●  Domestic flights: Common for longer distances, such as Cairo to Luxor or Aswan.

●  Trains: A popular and affordable way to travel between cities like Cairo and Alexandria.

●  Taxis: Use metered taxis or ride-sharing apps like Uber in Cairo and other major cities.

Estimated Budget

●  Luxury travel: $250+ per day (5-star hotels, private guides)

●  Mid-range: $100-$250 per day (3-4 star hotels, group tours)

●  Budget travel: $40-$100 per day (hostels, public transport)

Required Documents

●  A valid passport with at least six months of validity

●  A tourist visa (eVisa or visa-on-arrival)

●  Proof of accommodation

●  Return flight or onward ticket

Packing Tips

●  Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for the heat, but include modest attire for religious sites.

●  Sun protection: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against Egypt’s intense sun.

●  Other essentials: Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes, a refillable water bottle, and a power adapter for Egypt’s Type C/F plugs.

Culinary Delights

●  Koshari: A hearty dish of rice, lentils, pasta, and tomato sauce.

●  Ful Medames: Slow-cooked fava beans served with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.

●  Mahshi: Vegetables like zucchini or grape leaves stuffed with rice and herbs.

●  Baklava: A sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, nuts, and syrup.

Travel Tips

●  Best time to visit: The cooler months between October and April are ideal for sightseeing.

●  Currency: The Egyptian Pound (EGP) is used, and credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants.

●  Tipping: Known locally as “baksheesh,” tipping is common and expected in many situations, such as for services in restaurants and hotels.

Sources:

• Egyptian Tourism Authority: www.egypt.travel

• Lonely Planet: www.lonelyplanet.com/egypt

• Cairo Airport Authority: www.cairo-airport.com

• TripAdvisor: www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g294202