Egypt Travel Guide
Uncover the treasures of Egypt
Uncover the treasures of Egypt
Egypt offers one of the world’s most awe-inspiring travel experiences, where ancient wonders, timeless desert landscapes and the legendary Nile River come together in a destination unlike any other. Walk in the shadow of the Pyramids of Giza, explore extraordinary temples and discover vibrant bazaars brimming with colour and life. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, historical discovery or the romance of a Nile cruise, you’ll see more, do more and experience more on a handcrafted Egypt tour. We take care of every detail, so you can simply focus on discovering the world.
Population
Approx. 106 million
Time zone
UTC+2/UTC+3
Best time to visit
October to April
Capital city
Cairo
Electricity
220V; Type C and F plugs
Flight time
Approx. 16–18 hours from Australia’s east coast
Currency
Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Visa requirements
eVisa or visa required
Egypt tour packages
Ancient pharaohs, sacred temples and the mighty Nile
Ancient pharaohs, sacred temples and the mighty Nile
Egypt blends five thousand years of history with breathtaking natural scenery and rich cultural traditions. In Cairo, ancient antiquities and Islamic architecture sit alongside bustling souks and the world-class Grand Egyptian Museum. The Giza Plateau is home to the last surviving wonder of the ancient world — the iconic Pyramids and the Great Sphinx. Travel south to Aswan, where the stunning Philae Temple rises above the Nile and Nubian villages offer warm, authentic hospitality. A Nile cruise between Aswan and Luxor reveals the riverside temples of Kom Ombo and Edfu, while Luxor’s West Bank holds the legendary Valley of the Kings. Return to Cairo to explore the sensory spectacle of Khan el Khalili Bazaar.
Things to do while touring Egypt
Marvel at the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
No experience in Egypt compares to standing before the Pyramids of Giza. The Great Pyramid, built for Pharaoh Khufu over 4,500 years ago, remains one of humanity’s greatest achievements. Nearby, the Great Sphinx watches over the plateau with quiet authority. The Grand Egyptian Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of pharaonic artefacts including the treasures of Tutankhamun, brings this extraordinary history vividly to life.
Cruise the legendary Nile River
A three-night Nile cruise between Aswan and Luxor is one of travel’s most iconic experiences. Drift past palm-lined banks, desert cliffs and ancient temples on a comfortable superior-class vessel with panoramic cabin windows. Explore Kom Ombo’s dual temple dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek and Horus, and glide across the water on a traditional felucca around Aswan’s scenic islands for a truly timeless experience.
Discover temples, tombs and heritage sites
Egypt’s temples and burial sites are among the most spectacular on earth. At Philae, an island temple dedicated to Isis rises from the waters of Lake Nasser. Karnak, constructed over nearly 2,000 years, astonishes with its forest of towering columns. On Luxor’s West Bank, the Valley of the Kings holds the elaborate tombs of Egypt’s greatest pharaohs, while the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut rises dramatically against golden desert cliffs.
Immerse yourself in Cairo and Aswan
Cairo’s vibrant Khan el Khalili Bazaar is an essential Egyptian experience, where winding lanes spill over with spices, jewellery and traditional crafts. In Aswan, a traditional Nubian dinner reveals a deeply welcoming culture whose civilisation predates even the pharaohs. Both cities offer a richness and warmth that perfectly complements Egypt’s ancient wonders.
Visit the dual Temple of Kom Ombo
Perched dramatically on the banks of the Nile, the Temple of Kom Ombo is one of Egypt’s most uniquely designed ancient monuments. Unlike any other, it is a double temple built to honour two gods simultaneously — the crocodile god Sobek, associated with fertility and the power of the Nile, and the falcon god Horus the Elder, protector of pharaohs.
Top destinations
Cairo
Cairo is Egypt’s energetic capital, where extraordinary depth of history and ancient culture ancient collide with modern life in spectacular fashion. Explore the Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx and the Grand Egyptian Museum, then lose yourself in the winding lanes of Khan el Khalili Bazaar.
Aswan
Aswan is one of Egypt’s most beautiful cities, set along a dramatic stretch of the Nile lined with granite islands. Visit the stunning Philae Temple, enjoy a traditional Nubian dinner and use Aswan as your gateway to the legendary Abu Simbel temples, with their four colossal rock-carved statues of Ramses II.
Luxor
Luxor is the world’s greatest open-air museum, home to Karnak and Luxor Temples on the East Bank and the Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut and Medinet Habu Temple on the West Bank. Together, these extraordinary sites make Luxor one of the most historically significant places on earth.
Egypt frequently asked questions
Do you need a visa to visit Egypt?
Australian and New Zealand passport holders can apply for an eVisa online prior to travelling, for stays up to 30 days. Visas are also available on arrival for a cash fee. You may require proof of accommodation and onward travel. Entry conditions may change from time to time, so it’s best to check the latest information before you go. Stay up to date with Smartraveller.
What is the best time of year for Egypt tours?
October to April is generally the best time to visit, when temperatures are most comfortable for sightseeing. December to February offers the mildest conditions, while summer months can be extremely hot, particularly in Upper Egypt, so early morning tours and staying well hydrated are essential.
How do you get around Egypt while touring?
Domestic flights connect Cairo to Aswan and Luxor to Cairo, saving considerable travel time. Within cities, taxis and private transfers are readily available for getting around with ease, and the comfort of a superior Nile cruise vessel is recommended for travel between Aswan and Luxor. Traditional felucca rides and motorboat excursions add memorable local colour throughout. With My Touring, you’ll enjoy the comfort of private deluxe coach transportation and internal flights included in your package, allowing you to sit back, take in the extraordinary scenery and leave the logistics to your tour leader.
Is Egypt safe for tourists?
Egypt is a popular and well-established tourist destination visited by millions of travellers each year. Visiting Egypt on a guided tour adds an extra layer of comfort and local knowledge, with experienced guides ensuring seamless and secure travel throughout. As with any destination, it is important to stay informed, be aware of your surroundings, respect local customs and follow official travel advice during your visit.
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MY TOURING Led by Touring Experts
Delve deeper into Egypt with My Touring, with handcrafted itineraries that venture further into one of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations. Led by expert Egyptologists, our Egypt tours blend pharaonic wonders, Nile cruising and authentic cultural discovery into one unforgettable journey. Start planning your next adventure today.