5 Things you Should Know if You're planning your Trip to Egypt

Egypt is the land of civilization from the majestic pyramids to the serene Nile River, this captivating country offers a lifetime of experiences. Whether this is your first time in Egypt, or not, here are 10 essential things you should know if you’re planning your trip to Egypt to make your trip unforgettable.

 

Is Egypt Worth Visiting?

The first thing that comes to every traveler's mind before choosing a destination is definitely if this destination is worth visiting. In Egypt’s case, the right question to ask should be “ Why is Egypt worth the Visit?”. Egypt is a country that matches every taste, whatever you’re looking for in your next travel experience, it’s guaranteed that you’ll find it in Egypt, from its rich history to its delicious cuisine. 

• Rich History and Culture: Egypt has a rich history spanning back thousands of years. From the iconic pyramids of Giza to the magnificent temples of Luxor, the country provides a unique peek into the past.
• Stunning Landscapes: Egypt is known for its wide variety of scenery, featuring the beautiful Nile Valley, the vast Sahara Desert, and sandy beaches with crystal clear water. 
• Friendly People: Egyptians are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature. You'll likely meet friendly locals who are eager to share their culture and traditions.
• Delicious Cuisine: Egyptian food is a delicious blend of flavors that draws inspiration from Turkish, Arab, and Mediterranean cultures. Enjoy the chance to taste delicacies including shawarma, koshari, and falafel.

 

Where to Go In Egypt?

Choosing the places to visit in Egypt depends on your interests, but no worries we’ve got you covered with all the places you can go in Egypt so you have the trip of a lifetime.

1. Cairo: 

Cairo is the Capital of Egypt, the bustling city life of the country. There you can visit The Old Egyptian Museum in Al-Tahrir, Old Cairo to see the Religion Complex where Islamic, Christian, and Jewish architecture stand side to side. Also, you can pay a visit to The National Museum of Civilization which was newly opened in 2021. Also, a quick visit to Khan Al Khalili’s Bazaars to get souvenirs for your loved ones is a must.

2. Giza: 

Giza is the city where you’ll see the iconic, everlasting miracle of the Pyramids, The Sphinx, as well as; The Grand Egyptian Museum. The GEM is considered the largest archaeological museum devoted to a single civilization. Also when in Giza, you can pay a visit to Saqqara Necropolis and get the chance to see the Step Pyramid of Djoser, one of the oldest stone structures in the world.

 

3. Luxor and Aswan:

Although they are two separate cities they are inseparable, a visit to Aswan is not completed without a one to Luxor and Vice Versa. You can take a bus to transport you from one city to the other, or you can treat yourself to a magical Nile Cruise ride between the two cities. In Aswan, you must visit the majestic Philae Temple, the unfinished obelisk, and the Kom Ombo Temple. 

 

4. Siwa Oasis:

Experience desert life, explore ancient ruins, and relax in natural hot springs.

 

5. Red Sea Coast:

The Red Sea coast in Egypt offers a stunning combination of natural beauty, ancient history, and vibrant culture. Here are some of the most popular destinations; Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, Marsa Alam, El Gouna, and Dahab. The Red Sea in Egypt is also famous for all the different water activities you can hop on like; Diving and Snorkeling, Sailing and Windsurfing, Beach Relaxation by the sea, Glass Bottom Boat tours, or even booking yourself a submarine tour for a dry diving experience.
 

What to Wear In Egypt? 

Every trip planning has this part of staring at your closet and having no idea what to wear and what to pack for the trip. Egypt’s weather is the factor that gives you the idea on what to pack and what to wear. For Example;

In Summer, You should pack lightweight breathable clothes, while in Winter, Egypt’s temperature is moderate so just make sure you bring warm clothes and one jacket with you. During the autumn and Spring, Egypt experiences its best weather, so feel free to pack all you want but for safety bring a light sweater. If you’re planning to swim in the Sea or your hotel’s Pool, bring your usual swimsuits and enjoy your Swim.

 

We can never talk about clothing in Egypt without mentioning what foreign women are expected to wear when in Egypt. Foreign women are expected to wear modest clothing when in Egypt. This means covering your shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites or conservative areas. While it's not strictly enforced, adhering to local customs shows respect for the culture. Remember, these are general guidelines, and local customs may vary depending on the region. It's always a good idea to observe how locals are dressing and adjust your attire accordingly.

 

What to Eat in Egypt?

Is it a travel experience without tasting the local cuisine of the country? Influenced by Arab, Mediterranean, and Turkish traditions, Egyptian food is a delectable and complex fusion of tastes. Here are some must-try dishes:

Main courses:

• Koshari: A popular street food made with rice, lentils, pasta, chickpeas, and a spicy tomato sauce.
• Falafel: Crispy balls made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, often served with pita bread, hummus, and tahini sauce.
• Shawarma: Thinly sliced meat (usually lamb, beef, or chicken) cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in pita bread with vegetables and sauce.
• Molokhia: A hearty stew made with leafy green vegetables, meat, and a flavorful broth.
• Mahshi: Stuffed vegetables, such as vine leaves, peppers, or tomatoes, filled with rice, meat, and spices.

Desserts:

• Baklava: A sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough filled with chopped nuts and honey.
• Kunafa: A sweet dessert made with shredded filo dough, cheese, and syrup.
• Um Ali: A rich pudding made with bread, milk, nuts, and raisins.

Beverages:

• Karkade: A refreshing hibiscus tea.
• Sahlab: A hot drink made with starch, milk, and sugar.
• Tamarind juice: A sweet and tangy juice made from tamarind fruit.
   

When is the best time to visit Egypt?

The best time to visit Egypt depends on your preferences and what you want to do. Here's a breakdown of the different seasons:

Peak season (November to April):

• Pros: Pleasant weather with comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower prices compared to the summer months.
• Cons: Some popular attractions may still be crowded, and some accommodations may be fully booked.

Summer (May to October):

• Pros: Longer days, warm weather, and the opportunity to enjoy beach activities on the Red Sea coast.
• Cons: Hot temperatures, especially in the desert regions, and increased crowds. 

Shoulder season (May and October):

• Pros: Pleasant weather, fewer crowds than peak season, and potentially lower prices.
• Cons: Some attractions may be closed or have limited hours during this time.

Here are a few more things to think about:

• Think about going in the shoulder seasons or the first half of the peak season if you want to avoid the crowds.
• To partake in beach activities: The best time to visit the coast of the Red Sea is during the summer.
• If any particular festivals or events pique your interest: Make travel arrangements based on the dates you find on the calendar.

 

Egypt is a fascinating nation with breathtaking scenery, a lively culture, and a long history. There's something to delight everyone, regardless of interests in history, adventure, or the beach. Egypt provides amazing experiences, ranging from touring the historic pyramids to unwinding on the shores of the Red Sea Lake.

 

You'll be ready to make the most of your trip to Egypt if you include these five essential recommendations in your itinerary. So prepare to explore the delights of this intriguing country by packing your baggage!