Egypt Travel Guide 

Important Things To Know

Currency

The Egyptian Pound is used in Egypt. 

National Languages

The official language is Arabic. Egyptian Colloquial Arabic is the predominant dialect, also known as Masri. This is the common vernacular of the Egyptian people.

Because of its history as a British colony, English is widely spoken, particularly in tourist centers. We found that it was easy to find tour guides fluent in English.

Climate And Weather

The climate is dry and hot. Deserts dominate the landscapes. The winter season (November to January) is mild with coastal rainfall. 

Summers are hot and dry, from May through September. Temperatures vary widely between the seasons, driven by the prevailing winds.

Two camels rest in front of the Pyramids at Giza. (photo via A&S Signature Journeys) (Photo Credit: (photo via A&S Signature Journeys))

Dress Code

Egypt is a Muslim country. As such, tourists often wonder about a possible dress code when touring Egypt. It is best to abide by the conservative dress code of the locals. This is more applicable to women travelers. In Cairo especially, going bare-shouldered or bare-legged may be frowned upon. 

While women tourists are not required to wear hijab or any other head covering, they will have to wear a headscarf if visiting a mosque while sightseeing.

When To Visit Egypt

The best time to visit Egypt is October through April, thanks to cooler temperatures. However, you’ll still bask in the sun at this time. 

We recommend this time of year for tourists unused to blazing African heat. It will allow you to explore outdoor attractions like the Pyramids more comfortably.

Where To Stay

• The resort town of Hurghada on the edge of the Red Sea is one of our top picks. But be warned, the ride there is an adventure all of its own. Our bus from Cairo took 6 hours and was a bumpy ride!

• Alexandria is the second-largest city, situated on the Mediterranean’s edge. We loved the abundance of historical sites here. Established by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, this city was the seat of many ancient rulers until Roman occupation. 
• Cairo, the nation’s capital, has many attractions of its own. The city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural significance. You’ll enjoy a luxurious stay in any of the 5-star hotels. The Nile river is one of Cairo’s main attractions, but it is not advised to swim in it.