Egypt

For a trip to Egypt, you need a valid visa. Which type is suitable for your travel plans and whether you can also enter Egypt with an E-Visa depends on a number of factors. We support you in applying for your eTA travel authorization for Egypt.

Are you planning a vacation in Egypt? Before you visit the pyramids, swim at sunny dream beaches, or go diving at the Red Sea, we provide you with the essential facts for your trip to the land of the pharaohs.

• Location: North Africa
• Area: 1,001,449 km²
• Currency: Egyptian pound (EGP)
• Official language: Arabic
• Population: approx. 102.3 million
• Capital city: Cairo

Egypt has a primarily desert climate with a few exceptions along the Mediterranean coast and altitudes. The average temperatures are about 33 °C in the south and about 25 °C in the north of Egypt.

Heatwaves of up to 50 °C are not uncommon in Egyptian summers, but they cause fewer problems for travelers due to the dry air compared to other hot and humid regions of the world.

If you are traveling to Egypt for diving, you can choose between the Mediterranean coast, which has an average water temperature of 21 °C, and the east coast on the Red Sea, which has a temperature of up to 29 °C.

The vast desert landscape of Egypt is sparsely vegetated in many places and is mainly home to acacias, thorn bushes, and palm trees. However, the soils are fertile around the Nile Delta, where the landscape is green.

In the wetter areas live many bird species and a few crocodiles. Otherwise, you will mainly encounter the world-famous Egyptian camels on your trip to Egypt.

There are three national parks in Egypt: the Gebel Elba National Park, the Ras Mohammed National Park, and the Wadi-al Gamal National Park. Be informed about the correct behavior during earthquakes because tremors can occasionally occur due to Egypt's location in a seismically active zone.

You will need an eVisa or visa to travel to Egypt. Also, check the current entry requirements for Egypt before you travel.

You can get around by car, bus, domestic flight, ferries, or even train within Egypt. However, the rail network in Egypt does not have an excellent reputation, and there are frequent cancellations and, from time to time, accidents.

Bus travel often turns out to be adventurous due to the staff's driving habits, so many tourists opt for all-inclusive package tours with their own drivers or rental cars.

The main tourist routes in Egypt are paved and can be driven in standard vehicles. However, if you want to move on desert tracks, you will need an off-road vehicle with four-wheel drive.

During your trip to Egypt, you should always have enough cash at hand. Credit card payments are prevalent in Egypt, but they are not possible everywhere. You will find enough ATMs in larger cities and tourist areas.

Since the local security situation can change spontaneously, keep up to date with current events and forecasts during your trip by reading the news and the weather report.

It is important to stay healthy while traveling. Drink bottled water and wear sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun's intense rays. If you are sensitive to dietary changes, acclimate slowly to the local cuisine to avoid digestive upset.

When visiting Egypt, it is important to respect local customs and traditions. Simple clothing is appropriate, especially at religious sites or in more conservative areas. When interacting with locals, a simple Arabic greeting such as "Salaam Alaikum" (Peace be upon you) can be very helpful in establishing contact.

Egyptian cuisine is an enticing blend of flavors and influences. Don't miss the opportunity to try traditional dishes such as koshari, a mixture of lentils, rice, noodles, and spices, or ful medames, a spicy dish made from fava beans. Or immerse yourself in the world of street food, where aromatic smells and lively stalls invite you to try everything from taameya (Egyptian falafel) to freshly baked baladi bread.

In addition to the famous pyramids, Egypt offers some of the most spectacular diving and snorkeling experiences in the world. The crystal clear waters of the Red Sea are teeming with vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations. Whether you are an experienced diver or a snorkeling novice, these underwater landscapes will thrill you.

No trip to Egypt is complete without a visit to the bustling markets known as souks. Here, you can bargain for intricately woven carpets, handmade jewelry, exquisite spices, and other unique souvenirs. Bargaining is not only a business but also a fascinating cultural experience.

The Pyramids of Giza are a must-see, but Egypt is also a treasure trove of archaeological wonders. Explore the temples of Luxor, including the Karnak Temple Complex, where colossal statues and impressive columns pay homage to ancient gods. For something quieter, visit the temples of Abu Simbel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colossal rock statues.

A river cruise on the Nile offers a unique excursion into Egypt's history and culture. As you cruise past lush banks and picturesque villages, you'll get a glimpse of daily life and see ancient temples that line the banks. Be sure to choose a reputable cruise operator to ensure a safe and enriching experience.

Amid Egypt's vast desert landscape, hidden oases offer a welcome respite. One such oasis is Siwa, famous for its freshwater springs and breathtaking scenery. Stay in a traditional mud-brick hut and immerse yourself in an atmosphere of tranquility that has attracted travelers for centuries.

Depending on your travel dates, attending a local festival can be an enchanting way to experience Egyptian culture. "Moulid" festivals, which honor revered saints, are characterized by lively processions, exuberant music, and colorful street celebrations. Immerse yourself in the joyous atmosphere and join in the exuberant dances of the locals.

As you travel to Egypt, don't forget that behind the historical treasures lies a warm and hospitable country eager to share its traditions and stories. With careful planning and a willingness to embrace new experiences, your adventure in Egypt will be the trip of a lifetime.