In the race for the title of the world’s leading holiday destination, Egypt runs with the elite – more than 12 million tourists flock here every year. A sensual, synthesis of culture and climate, Egypt boasts pyramids, mystifying tombs, museums, sandy white beaches and picturesque sunsets.
Egypt, well known for its pivotal role in the Ancient world, is a country with many hidden treasures, providing the ideal holiday for solo travellers, couples and of course, families. Combining stunning beach resorts with one-of-a-kind souk shopping, incredible sightseeing and a myriad of cultural and historic monuments to visit, holidaying in Egypt is sure to satisfy even the most discerning traveller.
Officially known as the Arab Republic of Egypt, it is possible to visit anytime of year given the climate. In the winter, nights can get cold but generally the weather maintains a mild temperature and the days remain sunny. During the summer, the majority of the country enjoys a hot and dry season allowing for many diverse activities and excursions to visit the far reaches of Egypt’s awe-inspiring tourist attractions.
Before you go…
Before leaving home, it’s important to do your Egypt holiday research! Each tourist needs to find out what he or she will need to enter the country and for the duration of their stay. For example, there are certain travel requirements for Egypt for different nationalities.
If you are travelling to Egypt from the UK as a British citizen, you will need to make sure you have a full British passport with 6 months of validity from the entry date.
Depending on where you are travelling to and if you plan to visit other areas of the country, as a British citizen you may or may not be obliged to provide an Egypt visa upon entry at border controls which you can apply for online before leaving home.
TOP TIP: Travellers can get an Egypt Visa online easily and quickly before travelling to Egypt for stays of up to one month; also known as Egypt eVisa or the travel authorisation visa for Egypt.
For other nationalities, make sure to check the requirements for your country before travelling.
It is also recommended to check with your local embassy or consulate for any extra Egypt travel requirements that may be necessary such as items permitted to take into the country, vaccinations etc.
Fabulous tourist activities for your Egyptian holidays
This Arabian gem offers the ideal location for history buffs, archaeology aficionados and even for diving enthusiasts.
Egypt gives you the possibility of visiting the iconic monuments in the Valley of the Kings, the Karnak ruins, the Great Sphinx and the only remaining Wonder of the World: the Giza Necropolis.
Or if you prefer to bone up on the history of this extraordinary part of the world, born as one of the first official nation states in the tenth millennium BC and from thereon marked as a reference for the beginning of civilization, you can always explore Egypt’s cities, monuments and museums galore.
For the more beach bound among you, Egypt offers a selection of fine sandy beaches along the coasts of the Mediterranean, the Gulf of Aqaba and the Red Sea with elegant Egyptian beach resorts that cater to your every need.
And for the adventurous souls, tourists can climb aboard a luxury Nile cruise to sail down the longest river in the world or take a camel ride into the Sahara or even indulge in one of the many watersports available in addition to the very popular diving activities on offer in the Red Sea National Marine Park or the Ras Muhammad National Park in the Sinai Peninsula.
Where to stay for a luxury getaway in Egypt
There are hundreds of luxury hotels across Egypt where tourists can relax and enjoy some of Africa’s very best cuisine. Many offer world class facilities and special extras to create a remarkable and unforgettable holiday in this Ancient land.
TOP TIP: Some of the best places to stay in Egypt include the Hilton Luxor Resort and Spa, The Royal Savoy in Sharm El Sheikh, the Four Seasons in Alexandria San Stefano and The Nile Ritz-Carlton in Cairo among many others.