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Egypt

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description Egypt Overview

Egypt is a republic in North Africa with Cairo as its capital, centered on the Nile River, which flows north into the Mediterranean Sea. The ancient Egyptian civilization that arose along the river left monuments including the pyramids of Giza and the temple complexes of Luxor and Karnak. The Suez Canal, opened in 1869, links the Mediterranean and Red Seas as a major shipping route. Most of the population lives along the Nile valley and delta.

help Egypt FAQ

Is it safe to visit the pyramids at Giza?

The Giza plateau on Cairo's outskirts is a heavily policed tourist zone and visits are generally trouble-free, though touts and unofficial guides are persistent. The Great Pyramid of Khufu is about 4,500 years old and the only surviving wonder of the ancient world.

Do Americans need a visa for Egypt?

Yes, but it is straightforward: most travelers, including Americans, can use Egypt's official e-visa portal or get a visa on arrival for around $25 for tourism. Rules can change, so confirm current requirements before flying.

What is the best month to visit Egypt?

October through April offers comfortable temperatures for sightseeing, since summer in Upper Egypt regularly pushes well past 40°C. December and January are peak season, so Luxor and Aswan are busiest then.

Is a Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan worth doing?

Most cruises run three to four nights one-way and stop at Karnak Temple, the temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo, and Philae near Aswan. From Luxor you can also cross to the Valley of the Kings, where Tutankhamun's tomb was found in 1922.