EGYPT

 

Pharaohs, pyramids, papyrus and the Ptolemy’s—Egypt has seen them all and more—this makes it one of the most exciting destinations in Africa. The legacy of a 6000-year old history is worn like a proud badge by this country, which boasts some of the most spectacular archaeological treasures existing in the world today—from the Sphinx at Giza to the marvels of Tutankhamen’s tomb. It is truly a land where the monument building instincts of man seem to have been on permanent overdrive!

Nature too, has been more than generous here, from the life giving Nile to the brilliant Red Sea coral reefs. For this combination of manmade and natural beauty, Egypt has stirred the imagination of travelers from all over the world—from Alexander the Great and the Romans to the plundering tomb-raiders who arrived at the turn of this century from Europe. Through all these invasions, Egyptian culture has not only survived, but also flourished -a testament of its inner vitality and resilience.

Today, Egypt is a country of contrasts, from its chaotic and over-populated cities to the vast deserts holding ancient secrets in their wombs.

Capital:  Cairo

Best Time of Visit:

  1. The best time to visit Egypt is perhaps between the months of November and March, when the daytime temperatures hover in the region of 15 – 30 degrees Fahrenheit, making it very pleasant for sightseeing forays.
  2. At night the temperatures do fall but it never gets very cold and uncomfortable.
  3. Egypt is hot and dry for the rest of the year, and summer temperatures in the desert and places like Aswan can reach up to 50 ºC. Apart from Alexandria, Egypt receives very little rainfall.
  4. So plan a winter visit, especially if you are unused to very high temperatures.

 

Min Days Required: 3 Days

Places of Interest: 

  1. Great Pyramid of Giza
  2. Great Sphinx Of Giza
  3. Egyptian Museum
  4. Valley of The Kings
  5. Abu Simbel Temples
  6. Karnak
  7. Cairo
  8. Mount Sinai
  9. Philae
  10. Khan el-Khalili

 

Climate:

  1. Egypt’s climate ranges between hot, hotter and hottest for all the year, except for the winter months of December, January and February.
  2. Summer temperatures range from a moderate 31 ºC on the Mediterranean coast, to a phenomenal 50 º in Aswan—weather fit for aestivation.
  3. However, winters can get more than a little chilly—temperatures go below 10 ºC, especially in the desert. So do go prepared with some warm clothing. Except for Alexandria, most of Egypt is quite dry.

Currency: Egyptian Pound

Things to carry:

  1. Sun block, scarves, sunglasses and sturdy shoes are essential desert wear, and will be invaluable in those hot Egyptian days.
  2. Clothing should be suited to summer weather, and also preferably modest—this is especially true for women—please avoid wearing tops that leave your shoulders uncovered.
  3. It is also a good idea to cover your legs, even if you are male.
  4. Personal medication, mosquito repellent and malaria tablets should also be included in your luggage.

How to get there:

Air:

1. Egypt has several international airports:

  • Cairo International Airport— the primary entry point and the hub of the national carrier Egyptair.
  • Alexandria Nozha
  • Luxor International Airport — now receiving an increasing number of international scheduled flights, mostly from Europe, in addition to charter flights.
  • Aswan International Airport
  • Hurghada International Airport — receives a number of charter flights
  • Sharm El-Sheikh International Airport — receives a number of charter flights.
  • Burg Al-Arab International Airport
  • Marsa Alam International Airport