As soon as you step onto the flight bound for Egypt, your heart begins to race. Images of the pyramids standing tall in the desert for thousands of years and the dreamy blue expanse of the Red Sea keep flashing through your mind. However, first – time visitors to Egypt often find themselves at a loss. They may not know where to start when faced with numerous mysterious ancient sites and might miss out on the best experiences during their Red Sea vacation. For instance, some tourists once came to Egypt full of anticipation but, due to poor itinerary planning, only got a quick glimpse of the pyramids and failed to fully immerse themselves in their mysterious charm. Similarly, they only scratched the surface of what the Red Sea has to offer and didn’t get to fully enjoy the water activities. But don’t worry! This guide will help you uncover the mysteries of Egypt and let you experience the ancient civilization under the pyramids and the romantic charm of the Red Sea.
Why Choose Egypt?
Egypt, this ancient land nourished by the Nile River, is a miraculous place where history and nature intertwine. It carries a splendid civilization spanning over 7000 years and boasts numerous World Heritage Sites, attracting more than 11 million tourists every year. For history enthusiasts, Egypt is a vast open – air museum. Ancient sites like the pyramids and temples tell the glorious stories of the pharaonic era. For those yearning for sun – kissed beaches, the continuous stretch of white sandy beaches and the crystal – clear waters along the Red Sea coast offer the perfect vacation spot. Here, you can travel through time to explore the mysteries of ancient civilizations or simply relax and unwind amidst the blue sea and clear sky, embracing the gifts of nature.
Things to Know Before You Go
Best Time to Visit
- Spring and Autumn (March – May, September – November): The temperature is relatively mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20 – 28°C, making it ideal for visiting ancient sites and outdoor activities. During these seasons, you can avoid the intense heat of summer and the cold of winter, making them the prime time to explore Egypt. However, popular attractions tend to be more crowded, so it’s advisable to book tickets and accommodation in advance.
- Summer (June – August): Temperatures can be quite high, reaching over 40°C in some areas. Nevertheless, the Red Sea coast remains cool and pleasant, making it a great time for beach vacations and water sports. Additionally, summer is the off – peak tourist season, with relatively lower prices for hotels and flights.
- Winter (December – February): Temperatures are lower, and it may drop below 10°C at night. There is occasional rain in the northern regions. However, this is an excellent time to observe the starry desert sky, and with fewer tourists, you can experience the charm of ancient sites in a more tranquil atmosphere.
Visa and Entry
Chinese tourists need to apply for an Egyptian tourist visa in advance. You can visit the official website of the Egyptian Embassy in China to learn about the detailed application process and required materials, which generally include a passport, visa application form, photos, etc. Upon entry, you need to fill out an entry card and truthfully declare the items you are carrying. Carrying prohibited items is strictly prohibited. Also, check the validity of your passport to ensure it is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date.
Transportation Guide
- By Air: Cairo International Airport is the largest aviation hub in Egypt, with numerous international flights. After arriving in Cairo, you can take domestic flights to cities like Luxor, Aswan, or fly to Red Sea resort cities such as Hurghada and Sharm El – Sheikh.
- By Rail: Egypt’s railway network connects major cities. Traveling by train allows you to enjoy the scenery along the way and is relatively affordable. However, trains are slower, and some train facilities may be outdated. You can choose according to your itinerary.
- By Road: Renting a car for self – driving or taking long – distance buses are also common ways to get around in Egypt. However, local traffic rules are different from those in China, so extra caution is needed when driving. There are many long – distance bus companies, and choosing a reputable one can ensure a safe and comfortable journey.
Budget Reference
| Expense Category | Budget – Friendly (USD/day) | Comfortable (USD/day) | Luxury (USD/day) |
| Accommodation | 30 – 50 | 80 – 150 | 200+ |
| Dining | 15 – 25 | 30 – 50 | 80+ |
| Transportation | 20 – 30 | 40 – 60 | 100+ |
| Attraction Tickets | 10 – 20 | 20 – 30 | 30+ |
| Total | 75 – 125 | 170 – 290 | 410+ |
Highlights of the Itinerary
Must – Visit Attractions
- The Pyramids and the Sphinx: From a distance, the Giza Pyramid Complex stands tall in the desert like giants. The Great Pyramid of Khufu, with its height of 146.59 meters, showcases unparalleled grandeur. When you step inside the pyramid, narrow passageways lead to mysterious burial chambers, and the ancient hieroglyphics on the walls seem to be telling the stories of the pharaohs. The construction of the pyramids remains an unsolved mystery to this day. How the huge stone blocks were quarried, transported, and stacked has always intrigued countless archaeologists and tourists.
The Sphinx is located beside the Pyramid of Khafre. It is 73.5 meters long and 20 meters high, famous for its unique human – headed lion – body shape. Legend has it that it is the guardian of the pharaoh, and its face is said to be modeled after Pharaoh Khafre. Under the glow of the morning sun or the setting sun, the Sphinx appears even more mysterious and solemn, making people marvel at the superb craftsmanship and boundless wisdom of the ancient Egyptian artisans.
- The Red Sea Coast: Arriving at the Red Sea is like entering a blue dream world. The water here is so clear that the visibility can reach 30 – 50 meters. Beneath the surface lies a colorful coral reef kingdom, home to over 1200 species of fish and more than 200 types of coral. In Hurghada, you can put on your diving gear and plunge into the Red Sea, dance with tropical fish, and get up close to the diverse coral, experiencing the wonders of the underwater world.
The resorts along the Red Sea coast are well – equipped. Luxury resorts offer private beaches, infinity pools, and a variety of cuisines. Lying on a beach chair, bathing in the warm sunshine, savoring local specialties, and listening to the sound of the waves, all your fatigue will vanish. Whether you’re seeking an exciting water adventure or a leisurely seaside vacation, the Red Sea can meet your needs.
Hidden – Gem Experiences Loved by Locals
- Night Tour of Luxor Temple: When night falls, Luxor Temple becomes even more mysterious under the illumination of lights. Strolling through the temple, you can feel the unique charm of ancient Egyptian architecture in the dark, as if you can hear the echoes of history. Avoiding the daytime hustle and bustle, the night is the perfect time to calm down and savor every detail of the carvings and murals.
- Journey to Siwa Oasis: Located deep in the Western Desert of Egypt, Siwa Oasis is a peaceful paradise. It features clear salt lakes, ancient temples, and the unique Berber culture. You can ride a camel across the desert, experience the life of nomadic people, and float in the salt lake, enjoying the magical gifts of nature.
Season – Specific Activities
- During Ramadan: If you visit Egypt during Ramadan, although some restaurants and shops may shorten their business hours during the day, you can participate in local Iftar activities and experience the unique religious atmosphere and cultural traditions. After sunset, enjoy a sumptuous Iftar dinner with the locals and taste traditional Egyptian delicacies.
- Aswan Nile Festival: Every August, Aswan hosts the Nile Festival to celebrate the flooding of the Nile and the harvest. During the festival, there are lively parades, musical performances, and traditional boat races. Tourists can deeply immerse themselves in Egyptian folk culture and celebrate with the locals.
Avoiding Pitfalls
Common Traps
- Shopping around Scenic Areas: Around attractions like the pyramids, some merchants may inflate prices, and there are even fake and shoddy souvenirs on sale. Be cautious when making purchases, compare prices, and avoid impulsive buying.
- Strangers Offering Unsolicited Help: When traveling in Egypt, you may encounter strangers who offer help out of the blue and then demand high fees in return. If this happens, politely decline to avoid unnecessary trouble.
Alternative Options
- Gourmet Exploration: To taste authentic Egyptian cuisine, it’s a good idea to avoid restaurants near scenic areas and head to small eateries in local residential areas. Traditional dishes like Kushari and Ful can be enjoyed at these places with more reasonable prices and genuine flavors.
- Accommodation Choices: Besides popular hotels, Egypt also has many characteristic guesthouses and boutique hotels, which can offer you a more unique accommodation experience. You can also communicate with the hosts to get more local travel tips.
Safety Tips
- Cultural Etiquette: Egypt is an Islamic country. Respect local religious beliefs and customs, dress appropriately, especially when visiting mosques, and abide by relevant regulations.
- Property Safety: In crowded places such as markets and scenic areas, pay attention to safeguarding your personal belongings to prevent theft. It is recommended to carry a money belt to store important documents and valuables.
- Health Protection: Egypt has a dry climate. Remember to stay hydrated and take sun protection measures. Drink bottled water and avoid eating raw and cold food to prevent stomach discomfort.
Useful Toolkit
Apps / Websites
- Google Maps: Ideal for navigation in Egyptian cities, helping you locate attractions, restaurants, and hotels.
- TripAdvisor: Check user reviews of attractions, restaurants, and hotels to assist in planning your itinerary and choosing quality establishments.
- EgyptAir: The official app of EgyptAir, where you can check flight information, book tickets, and handle check – in procedures.
- AI Tools: You can also use AI tools such as DeepSeek, ChatGPT, Claude, and Tongyi Qianwen to quickly obtain travel guides, attraction introductions, and local food recommendations. Just enter keywords like “Contact Information of the Embassy/Consulate of [Your Country Name] in Egypt” for a quick query. Save the information in a timely manner so that in case of an emergency, you can immediately seek consular protection and assistance.
Local Contacts
- Tourist Information Centers: Located in major cities and scenic areas, these centers can provide maps, attraction brochures, and travel advice.
- Hotel Front Desk: After checking into a hotel, you can consult the front desk for local travel information. They usually offer reliable suggestions and can help book activities and transportation services.
Emergency Contacts
- Police Emergency Number: 122
- Emergency Medical Number: 123
- Embassy/Consulate of Your Home Country in Egypt: Save the contact information of your home country’s embassy/consulate in Egypt in advance. In case of an emergency, you can seek consular protection and assistance.
Egypt, this mysterious and romantic land, is waiting for you to uncover its veil. The ancient mystery of the pyramids and the romantic charm of the Red Sea will bring you an unforgettable journey. Are you ready to embark on this wonderful exploration? Share your expectations, and if you want to know any more details about traveling in Egypt, feel free to let me know!
