Egypt Destination Guide
The place
Egypt is about far more than its ancient history, although that is, of course, an incredible draw for many. Most of the major sights and cities are found alongside the River Nile which flows south to north over 4,000 miles through Africa to the Mediterranean Sea. But, it is a land of variety and Cairo, the capital and the largest city in Africa, is a cosmopolitan metropolis where the ancient and the modern vie for position. The Red Sea resorts are truly international and boast some of the finest hotels and watersports in the continent.
The culture
The Egyptian people are a humble and pious nation and religion is an important part of their lives. As you might expect, Egypt is a conservative country and you should dress modestly especially in the city and if visiting mosques.
Ramadan
This is an important event in the Muslim calendar. For a month long period, the local people fast during the day. There may be restrictions on eating and drinking alcohol, although most international hotels allow alcohol to be served and there are always restaurants open for guests. Because the actual dates are based on the lunar calendar, these are subject to variation, but are expected to be 21 Aug-21 Sep 09, 11 Aug-11 Sep 10.
The shopping
Bargain hunters will find their heaven in the bazaars of Cairo, where haggling is a way of life. There almost seems to be a bazaar for every kind of item. Jewellery, antiques and all manner of spices and scents can be found at the famous Khan al-Khalili. Remember that Friday is the main public holiday each week in Egypt.
The nightlife
Cities such as Cairo and Luxor are like cities the world over – bustling with life and with a wide range of restaurants and bars from which to choose. Cheaper restaurants often don’t serve alcohol, but in the main, you will find a good range of local beer and even Egyptian wine on sale. A trip to the Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids in Giza or in Karnak is highly recommended or you might consider taking a dinner cruise on the River Nile.
The sights
Cairo: Cairo is the largest city in the whole of Africa. Most visitors head to Giza (around 90 minutes away) to visit the Pyramids and Sphinx – the very symbol of Egypt and the last remaining wonder of the ancient world. You should not miss the Egyptian Museum which counts the treasures of Tutankhamun’s tomb amongst its 120,000 artefacts.
Luxor: Known in ancient times as Thebes and lying some 420 miles south of Cairo. Luxor is home to some of the most important sites in Egypt. No visit would be complete without seeing the stunning temple complexes of Karnak and Luxor which took over a thousand years to build. Across the Nile lies the Necropolis of Thebes and the Valley of the Kings, where over 60 tombs have been discovered – the most famous being that of Tutankhamun.
Esna: Just 30 miles south of Luxor, the town of Esna is the location of one of the main locks on the Nile. The closure of this lock can mean changes to itineraries at certain times of the year. The town itself is built over the Temple of Khnum.
Edfu: Lying 60 miles south of Luxor, the Temple of Horus at Edfu is one of the most completely preserved in Egypt with its great pylon, exterior walls, courts and halls all still in place. The walls depict a period from 237 BC, when construction commenced, to 57 BC when it was completed.
Abu Simbel: Amazingly cut from their position in the rock face on the edge of Lake Nasser, the temples of Abu Simbel were moved to their present location 60 metres higher up the sandstone cliff, when the construction of the High Dam threatened to submerse them in the lake. Over a four year period, the two 3,000 year old temples were dismantled and reassembled in the same relationship to each other and the sun, so that on the birthday of Ramses the sun’s rays fall on the foreheads of the Pharoahs inside.
Aswan: For most visitors to Egypt, Aswan is the southernmost point of a Nile Cruise and is the country’s most southerly city. In colonial times, it was a favourite winter destination for the British. This charming town has bustling bazaars, an elegant corniche and ancient temples. It is most well known for its dam – although now there are two – the Old Aswan Dam and the new and modern High Dam.
Kom Ombo: The Temple of Kom Ombo is situated on a bend in the Nile just 24 miles north of Aswan. Dedicated to Horus (the sparrowhawk) and Sobek (the crocodile) the two temples were strategically built on a high dune overlooking the river.
Nile Cruises: A cruise down the longest river in the world at 4,000 miles is a must for any visit to Egypt. Nile cruising is perhaps not a cruise in the true sense of the word given that the distance covered between Luxor and Aswan is only around 150 miles. The boats are relatively small, so the atmosphere is friendly and relaxed. And it is an extremely stress-free way to explore some of the world’s most historic sites whilst taking the opportunity to watch the life of Egypt pass before your eyes. Most sightseeing starts early in the morning both to make the most of the “cooler” early hours and to avoid the crowds, which flock to these fabulous sites.
The beaches
Hurghada: Located on the western shores of the Red Sea, Hurghada is fast developing into one of Egypt’s liveliest and most cosmopolitan resorts. With a stunning backdrop of magnificent mountains and rugged desert scenery, it is a superb place for relaxation after touring. Although with its fantastic diving possibilities, you may find yourself drawn into more action!
Sharm el-Sheikh: This former Bedouin fishing village has developed to be one of Egypt’s foremost resorts. Located on the Red Sea at the tip of Sinai, it has become a resort of international repute justly proud of its reputation for offering fine hotels, great entertainment and some of the world’s best diving. Virtually year round sunshine make it a popular choice for sun worshippers!
The facts
Geography: Located in the north eastern corner of Africa, Egypt is 640 miles at its longest point and 775 miles at its widest. 95% of the country is desert. Most of its 77 million population live in the cities. The remaining 5% of the land is home to Egypt’s cities where most of the 77 million population reside.
Language: Arabic, but English is widely spoken
Passports: you will need a full British passport valid for a minimum of six months beyond your date of return. Two clear pages are required.
Visas: A visa is required, which is obtainable on arrival at a fee (approximately £15).
Vaccinations: Vaccinations are strongly recommended. For further information, please consult your doctor.
Travelling time: Cairo is approximately 41/2 hours by non-stop flight from the UK
Local time: GMT + 2 hours
Currency: Egyptian pounds
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Egypt - Map
