Egypt: pyramids, the Nile and the Red Sea

Egypt has some of the most famous sights on earth. It also has persistent touts and heat, so a little planning makes the trip much more enjoyable.

Where to go

• Cairo and Giza: the Pyramids and the Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum and the new Grand Egyptian Museum near the pyramids, the old Islamic quarter and Khan el-Khalili market.
• Luxor: the Valley of the Kings, Karnak and Luxor temples.
• Aswan: a calmer Nile town with a Nubian culture. A road trip from here reaches the temples of Abu Simbel.
• The Nile: a multi-day cruise between Luxor and Aswan, or a simple sailboat called a felucca for an afternoon.
• The Red Sea: Hurghada, Dahab and Marsa Alam for snorkeling and diving.
• Alexandria and Siwa Oasis: a Mediterranean city and a desert oasis for something different.

When to go

October to April is the pleasant season, with warm days and cool nights. Summer is extremely hot, especially in Luxor and Aswan. The Red Sea is good for swimming most of the year.

Entry basics

Many visitors can get a visa online or on arrival. Rules and fees change, so confirm them on the official government site for your passport. Check your government's travel advice before you go, because some border and desert areas are not recommended.

Getting around

• Domestic flights, overnight trains and buses link the main cities. Use well-reviewed companies and book ahead.
• Ride apps work in Cairo and other big cities and avoid haggling over taxi prices.
• A licensed guide makes the temples and museums much more meaningful. Book through your hotel or a reputable agency, and agree the price first.
• Day tours from Aswan to Abu Simbel leave very early.

Dealing with touts

• Egyptians are generally warm and welcoming, but at major sights you will be approached often.
• A firm, friendly "no, thank you" is enough. Keep walking.
• Agree the price for any camel or horse ride, photo or service before you start, and confirm whether it is per person.
• Small tips, called baksheesh, are expected for many services. Keep small bills handy.
• Foreign visitors usually pay higher ticket prices than locals at sights. Check the official price list rather than paying for extras you do not need.

Health and comfort

• Drink bottled water and be careful with ice and raw salads.
• Wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen, and visit big sites early in the day.
• Dress modestly away from beach resorts. Loose long sleeves and trousers are cooler than you might expect.

Save money

Mid-range hotels and local restaurants are good value. Eat where locals eat. Take overnight trains or buses to skip a hotel night. See Plan a trip budget.