Plan
your Egypt adventure with confidence using this complete travel
guide. Find essential information on visas, safety, transport,
culture, and the best time to visit Egypt - everything you need for a
seamless trip.
Country: Egypt
Continent / Region: Africa / North Africa / Middle East crossroads
Capital City: Cairo
Government Type: Presidential Republic
Population: Approx. 112 million
Official Language(s): Arabic
Percentage of Population Who Speak English: ~35% (higher in tourist areas)
Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Time Zone (GMT): GMT+2
Driving Side: Right
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type C/F – 220V
Adapter Needed: UK travellers require a plug adapter
Emergency Numbers: 122 (Police), 123 (Ambulance), 180 (Fire)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 5–5.5 hours (direct)
Best Time/Months to Travel: October–April (cooler temperatures)
Main International Airports:
- Visa Requirements: Varies by nationality
- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: Visa on Arrival (VOA) or e-Visa
- Visa Duration / Cost: 30 days; approx. $25 USD
- Vaccinations Needed: Routine vaccines; Hepatitis A & Typhoid recommended
Embassy Information (UK Embassy in Egypt):
Website: www.gov.uk/world/organisations/british-embassy-cairo
Average Daily Costs: £25 / £50 / £120+
Tipping Culture: Very common (“baksheesh”); small tips expected
Public Transport Options: Metro (Cairo), taxis, buses, rideshares
Approx. Cost of Single Fare: EGP 5–10 (Cairo metro)
Internet / SIM Availability: Good 4G; Vodafone Egypt, Orange, Etisalat, WE
Main Climate Type: Desert climate
Average Temperature: Winter 15–25°C; Summer 30–40°C+
Major Cities: Cairo, Alexandria, Giza, Luxor, Aswan, Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada
Natural Attractions: Nile River, Red Sea reefs, Sahara Desert, oases
Popular Destinations: Cairo, Giza Pyramids, Luxor, Aswan, Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, Marsa Alam
Main Religions: Predominantly Islam; Coptic Christianity minority
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Koshari, falafel (ta’ameya), ful medames, shawarma, grilled meats, baklava
Local Festivals:
Famous Landmarks: Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, Abu Simbel, Egyptian Museum
Overall Safety Rating: Moderate; safe in tourist areas with normal precautions
Common Scams: Taxi overcharging, “guide” scams, papyrus shop scams
Health Risks: Dehydration, heat exhaustion, stomach sensitivity
Recommended Clinics: Private hospitals in Cairo, Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh
Insurance Recommendation: Essential, including medical and diving coverage
Internet Speed: Good 4G/5G in major areas
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: Giza Pyramids, Valley of the Kings, Nile cruises, Abu Simbel, Egyptian Museum, Red Sea resorts
Unique Experiences: Hot air ballooning in Luxor, desert safaris, snorkelling in the Red Sea, felucca rides on the Nile
Hidden Gems: Siwa Oasis, White Desert, Dahab, Abydos Temple, Fayoum desert lakes
Popular Areas to Stay: Cairo Zamalek, Giza near pyramids, Luxor East Bank, Aswan Corniche, Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada Marina
Average Hotel Prices: £20 / £40 / £120+
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: Cairo Zamalek, Sharm El Sheikh Naama Bay, Hurghada Marina
Local Drinks: Hibiscus tea (karkade), mint tea, fresh juices
Entertainment: Belly dancing shows, river cruises, beach clubs, souks
Car Rental: Available but not recommended for most visitors
Domestic Flights: Frequent between Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Sharm El Sheikh
Trains: Cairo–Luxor–Aswan routes popular
Taxi / Rideshare Costs: Affordable; Uber/Careem widely used
Best Markets: Khan el-Khalili (Cairo), Luxor souks, Aswan markets
Popular Souvenirs: Papyrus art, alabaster, spices, jewellery, carpets, perfumes
Local SIM Card Providers: Vodafone Egypt, Orange, Etisalat, WE
Typical Business Hours: 9 a.m.–10 p.m. (varies widely)
Tap Water Safety: Not recommended; use bottled water
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
Over 70% of Egypt is desert, and the Nile is the lifeline that supports most of the population.