Egypt: When to Go, Where to Visit and What to Take

Egypt almost certainly conjures images of vast deserts and pyramids. Although no Egyptian travel itinerary would be complete without a camel ride across the sandy plains, the country has much more to offer visitors.

With vibrant cities, luxurious beach resorts and countless ancient monuments, Egypt is the perfect destination for travellers in search of a cultural fix or simply rest and relaxation.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT EGYPT?

With mild year-round temperatures, Egypt can be enjoyed in every season.

Heading to Egypt for lazy days at the beach? Summertime, from June to September sees high temperatures and endless sunny days, just be warned that inland locations are scorching during these months (consistently above 30ºC) so it’s best to stick to the coast.

Peak season, from mid-October to May, sees the largest influx of tourists who flock to Egypt in search of warmer climes, especially around Christmas. With cooler temperatures, winter is the perfect time to explore the cities, deserts and inland areas.

VISITING THE GIZA PYRAMID COMPLEX

One of the Seven Wonder’s of the World, Giza’s pyramids are recognisable across the globe, and for good reason. The Giza Complex comprises the Giza Necropolis, the Sphynx, the Pyramids and the Valley Temple of Khafre, which is one of the best temples in Egypt.

To get the most out of your trip, it’s a good idea to get a tour guide or a driver. With so much to see, dedicate a full day of your trip to exploring the site, it really is worth every minute.

The Great Pyramid of Giza may be the highlight, but the smaller pyramids are still impressive, and you won’t want to miss that photo opportunity with the emblematic Sphynx which keeps a watchful eye over the funerary complex.

This is one of the best places to take a camel trek. Escape the crowds which cluster around the pyramids and head further out into the desert for breathtaking views.

TAKING A CRUISE DOWN THE RIVER NILE

Another must when visiting Egypt is a cruise down the Nile. The best way to visit some of the country’s most interesting cities, as well as some incredible monuments, a Nile boat trip is ideal if you want to see as much as possible on your trip.

Most cruises make stops at Luxor, Aswan, and Cairo; be sure to hop off and take a look around, and if you don’t have time to see everything, you can always return on another day.

Choose from modern cruises for greater comfort and luxury or a steamship to experience what travelling was like 100 years ago.

HOW TO GET A VISA FOR EGYPT

Unless you’re from one of the very few visa-exempt nations you’re going to need a visa for Egypt.

The good news is that many travellers can apply for the Egypt eVisa using this Travel to Egypt Application Form. As the process is all online, you don’t need to worry about visiting the embassy or consulate in person. All you need to apply is a valid passport, a credit or debit card to pay the fees and an email address.

Once your eVisa has been approved, it will be sent straight to your email inbox for you to print at home. With fast processing times, you can leave it until 7 days before departure to apply.

If you’re a frequent flyer, you probably have some not-so-great memories of joining long queues at the airport for a visa on arrival, by applying in advance for the eVisa you can start enjoying your trip from the moment you arrive.

WHAT TO WEAR IN EGYPT

When it comes to selecting clothes for your trip to Egypt, think long sleeves and lightweight fabric. Not only is this the best choice given the hot climate, but it is also most appropriate given the generally conservative dress code.

Although there are no strict rules on how to dress, avoid showing too much bare flesh. Moreover, you won’t be able to enter a Mosque or other religious site without appropriate clothing; women are required to cover their head, arms, and legs.

It goes without saying that comfortable footwear is a must. You’ll be covering lots of ground on foot (or camelback!) so opt for your most comfy and sturdiest shoes.

Other Egypt essentials include a hat and sunglasses and don’t forget some warm clothes too, temperatures drop significantly in the desert come nightfall.

Author Bio:
Susan Noel is an experienced content writer. She is associated with many renowned travel blogs as a guest author where she shares her valuable travel tips with the audience.