Egypt, officially known as the Arab Republic of Egypt, is a country located in the northeast corner of Africa, with a small portion of its territory located in Asia. It is one of the most populous countries in Africa, with over 100 million inhabitants, and is the third-largest economy on the continent. Egypt has a rich history and culture that dates back thousands of years, with many ancient monuments and artefacts that are well-known worldwide, such as the pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the temples of Luxor and Karnak. The ancient civilization of Egypt was one of the world’s first great empires, and it played a significant role in shaping the history of the Mediterranean region.
In modern times, Egypt has had a complex political and social history. The country gained independence from British rule in 1952, and since then, it has experienced periods of political instability and economic challenges. Egypt is a major player in the Arab world, and its strategic location at the crossroads of Africa, Europe, and Asia has given it a crucial role in international affairs. The official language of Egypt is Arabic, and Islam is the dominant religion, with the majority of the population being Sunni Muslims. The country has a rich cultural heritage that includes music, dance, and cuisine, and is known for its vibrant and colourful markets and bazaars. The Nile River, which runs through the heart of the country, has played a vital role in shaping Egypt’s history and culture, and is still an essential source of water and agriculture for the country today.
Where Should You Go?
Egypt is a fascinating country with a wealth of historical and cultural attractions. Here are some popular destinations that you should consider visiting when traveling to Egypt:
Cairo
The capital city of Egypt is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and a lot to see and do. Some of the most popular attractions in Cairo include the pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum, and the Khan el-Khalili bazaar.
Luxor
Located on the banks of the Nile River, Luxor is known for its ancient temples and monuments, including the Temple of Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, and the Luxor Temple.
Aswan
Aswan is a beautiful city located in the southern part of Egypt, famous for its picturesque setting on the Nile River and its many ancient monuments and temples, including the Temple of Philae and the Abu Simbel temples.
Alexandria
The coastal city of Alexandria is known for its beautiful beaches and rich history, including the ancient Library of Alexandria, the Citadel of Qaitbay, and the Montazah Palace and Gardens.
Red Sea
Egypt’s Red Sea coast is a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkelling, with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. Some popular Red Sea destinations include Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh, and Dahab.
Best Time To Travel Egypt
Winter (December to February)
This is the most popular time to visit Egypt, especially for travellers looking to explore the ancient monuments and temples. The weather is cooler, with average temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius (50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit), making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. It is also the peak tourist season, so prices for accommodation and tours may be higher.
Spring (March to May)
This is a good time to visit Egypt if you prefer milder weather and smaller crowds. Temperatures can still be warm, but they are generally more pleasant than in the summer months. This is also a good time to explore the desert regions of Egypt, as wildflowers and other plant life are in bloom.
Summer (June to August)
This is the hottest time of the year in Egypt, with temperatures averaging around 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher. It is not the most comfortable time to explore the country, but if you can handle the heat, you can take advantage of lower prices and fewer crowds.
Autumn (September to November)
This is another good time to visit Egypt if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy milder temperatures. It is also a good time for diving and snorkelling in the Red Sea, as water temperatures are warm and visibility is good.
Overall, the best time to visit Egypt is during the winter months, when temperatures are cooler and the weather is more pleasant for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Rich Culture
Egypt is a country with a rich cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years. The culture of Egypt is deeply influenced by its ancient history, as well as by the country’s Islamic and Arab identity. Here are some aspects of Egypt’s culture:
Language
The official language of Egypt is Arabic, and it is the most widely spoken language in the country. However, Egyptian Arabic has its unique dialect, and many Egyptians also speak other languages such as English and French.
Religion
Islam is the dominant religion in Egypt, with about 90% of the population being Muslim. However, there are also significant Coptic Christian and Jewish communities in the country.
Art and Architecture
Egyptian art and architecture have a long history that spans thousands of years. The country is famous for its ancient monuments, such as the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, as well as its Islamic architecture, such as the mosques and palaces of Cairo.
Music and Dance
Egypt has a rich musical tradition that includes classical Arabic music, as well as traditional folk music and pop music. Dance is also an important part of Egyptian culture, with belly dancing being the most well-known style.
Cuisine
Egyptian cuisine is diverse and includes dishes such as koshari (a mix of rice, lentils, and pasta), ful medames (a stew made from fava beans), and aish baladi (a type of flatbread).
Clothing
Traditional Egyptian clothing for men includes the galabeya (a long robe) and the shalwar kameez (a long shirt and loose pants). Women often wear the hijab or the niqab, which are Islamic head coverings, and the abaya (a long black robe).
Travel Tips
Here are some travel tips to make the most of your trip to Egypt:
1. Dress appropriately
Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, and it’s important to dress conservatively to show respect for the local culture. Both men and women should avoid wearing revealing clothing, and women should cover their hair when visiting mosques or other religious sites.
2. Stay hydrated
Egypt can get very hot, especially during the summer months, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Be sure to drink plenty of water and carry a water bottle with you at all times.
3. Negotiate prices
Bargaining is a common practice in Egypt, especially when shopping in local markets. Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices to get the best deal, but be respectful and don’t haggle too aggressively.
4. Be aware of scams
Unfortunately, there are some scams targeted at tourists in Egypt. Be cautious of anyone who approaches you offering tours or services, and only book through reputable tour operators or hotels.
5. Visit the main attractions
Egypt is home to many famous attractions, such as the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, the temples of Luxor and Karnak, and the Valley of the Kings. Make sure to visit these main attractions, but also explore some of the lesser-known sites to get a well-rounded experience.
6. Take a Nile River cruise
A Nile River cruise is a popular way to see the ancient sites of Egypt while enjoying the comfort of a cruise ship. There are many options for Nile River cruises, from budget to luxury, so choose one that fits your budget and travel style.
7. Try the local food
Egyptian cuisine is flavorful and diverse, with dishes such as koshari, ful medames, and shawarma. Be sure to try some of the local food, but make sure it’s from a reputable source to avoid getting sick.
8. Learn some Arabic
Arabic is the official language of Egypt, so learning a few basic phrases can go a long way in communicating with locals and showing respect for their culture.
With the country’s varied past and rich culture, Egypt is undeniably a place to be adding to your bucket list.