About Egypt
The gift of the Nile
Egypt is home to one of the world's oldest civilisations. For more than 5,000 years the Nile has shaped its history, from the Pharaohs and the Pyramids of Giza to the Coptic and Islamic heritage of Cairo.
Today Egypt welcomes millions of visitors every year to its ancient monuments, Nile cruises, desert oases and the coral reefs of the Red Sea.
Key facts
- CapitalCairo
- Official languageArabic
- CurrencyEgyptian Pound (EGP)
- Time zoneUTC+2 (UTC+3 in summer)
- Dialling code+20
- Electricity220 V, plug types C & F
- ClimateHot, dry summers; mild winters
- PopulationMore than 105 million
- Best time to visitOctober to April
Top destinations
Giza
The Great Pyramid and the Sphinx, the last surviving wonder of the ancient world.
Historic Cairo
The city of a thousand minarets, the Egyptian Museum and the Khan el-Khalili bazaar.
Luxor
Karnak and Luxor temples and the Valley of the Kings, the world's greatest open-air museum.
Aswan & the Nile
Sail a felucca, cruise between Luxor and Aswan and visit the temples of Abu Simbel.
Red Sea Riviera
Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh and Marsa Alam: world-class diving and year-round sunshine.
Alexandria
The Mediterranean pearl, home of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and the Citadel of Qaitbay.
Travel tips
- Carry your printed e-Visa together with the passport used in your application.
- Drink bottled water and protect yourself from the sun, especially in summer.
- Dress modestly when visiting mosques, churches and religious sites.
- Keep some Egyptian Pounds in cash for small purchases and tips.
- Photography may be restricted at some monuments and museums; check the signs.
- Friday is the weekly holiday; some offices and shops close or open later.