Explore Egypt
Egypt has always been one of those places that sparks your curiosity. Between its mysterious atmosphere, incredible ancient ruins, and busy, chaotic cities, there’s something about it that has a way of drawing you in. As a child, I was fascinated by stories of mummies, pharaohs, and pyramids, always imagining what it would be like to see them for myself. That childhood fascination never faded, and eventually grew into a lifelong desire to visit Egypt.
When it finally came time to plan my trip, I knew I wanted to explore the country independently, without organised tours, guides, or a Nile cruise. I had to admit I was nervous but I did it anyways. It turned out to be every bit as magical as I’d hoped, even if it came with a few challenges along the way.
However you choose to explore Egypt, whether independently, on an organised tour, or aboard a Nile cruise, there are some experiences you simply shouldn’t miss. From the chaos of Cairo and the sheer enormity of the Giza Pyramids to the beauty of Luxor, the towering statues of Abu Simbel, and the colourful coral reefs of the Red Sea, Egypt is a country that offers something extraordinary at every turn.
Deciding when to Visit
Egypts desert can be hot, it’s important to figure out when to visit.
October to April- is the cooler season. This can be a more comfortable time to visit Egypt. Its milder tempatures makes exploring and visiting all of the sites more enjoyable.
December to January- the peak season. Expect more crowds and to plan ahead when possible.
May to September- fewer crowds and hot weather. If you don’t mind the heat this can bring fewer crowds to some attractions. But please bring plenty of water
June to September- for Red Sea activites. These months bring some of the highest tempatures. If swimming, snorkeling and diving are on your list these months can offer wonderfuly warm water.
What to expect
Currency, Credit Cards, and ATMs
The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Credit cards are accepted at larger establishments, such as hotels, restaurants, and major shops. However, smaller businesses may only accept cash, so it’s always best to ask before making a purchase.
ATMs are readily available in larger cities, but they can be difficult to find in smaller towns and more remote areas. To avoid any inconvenience, it’s a good idea to carry enough cash for daily expenses, particularly when using taxis or shopping at smaller local businesses.
Egypt is more of a cash country so its best to plan to use cash
Tourist Visas
I do my best to keep this page updated with the latest information, but things can change! Before you travel to Egypt, I always recommend double-checking the current visa requirements for your nationality to make sure you have everything you need
Travelers from countries such as Canada, the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Russia, and EU member states are eligiable for an e-Visa online or obtain a visa on arrival. If applying online, be sure to use the reputable official Egyptian e-Visa website or another reputable source. I do not have a website to recommend for this because I obtained a visa upon arrival.
If you plan to obtain your visa on arrival, be prepared to pay the visa fee in US dollars in cash. It’s recommended to bring clean, undamaged banknotes that are relatively new, with no tears, excessive folds, marks, or stamps, as damaged or marked bills may not be accepted. Also they many not give you change, so bring the excat amount you need.
SIM Cards and eSIMs
One thing I recommend sorting out before your trip to Egypt is how you’ll stay connected! You can either purchase an eSIM before you travel or pick up a local SIM card once you arrive at the airport. Both are convenient options, and getting a SIM card at the airport is usually pretty quick and easy. If you are flying into Cairo it helps to have data to order a uber instead of dealing with taxis.
What to Wear
One of the questions I get asked a lot after visiting Egypt is, “What should I wear?” My advice is to keep things comfortable, lightweight, and modest. Dressing respectfully is a great way to be mindful of the local culture, but it’s also practical when exploring Egypt’s hot climate.
Luckily, modest clothing can also be perfect for the Egyptian heat! Loose trousers, long skirts, floaty dresses, and lightweight tops will help keep you comfortable while exploring. And don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen — the Egyptian sun can be intense!
