Egypt FAQs
What language is spoken in Egypt?
Egyptian Arabic is the official and most widely spoken language in Egypt. English is taught in schools and is considered a secondary language that is most commonly used for tourism purposes.
What currency is used in Egypt?
The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian Pound. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants and upscale shops. There are also ATMs available at hotels and outside major banks dispensing local currency.
Do I need a visa and passport to travel to Egypt?
Citizens of countries in North America are required to obtain a visa prior to entry. Typically a renewable 30-day visa will be issued. Obtaining a visa upon arrival at Cairo International Airport is also possible. A valid passport is mandatory. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date you expect to leave Egypt.
When is the best time to travel to Egypt?
The best time to visit Egypt would be during the winter months, from October to April. The temperatures are mild and pleasant, although evenings can become quite cool. December through January are the peak tourist months so expect large crowds if travelling at this time. The best time to enjoy the beaches, without having to endure the large crowds of summer tourists, would be from March to May. Temperatures at this time are warm and tourist sites are not too crowded.
Is there transportation within Egypt?
Trains, buses, and taxis are the most common ways for tourists to travel between the cities in Egypt. There are also self-drive cars available that can be organized by your travel professional. Small or private tours are conducted in vans, sedans, and tourism vehicles.
Is Egypt a family-friendly destination?
Egypt is most definitely a good place to visit on a family vacation. It offers a number of museums where you can view ancient Egyptian artifacts and many more pieces representative of Egyptian history. Ancient tombs, temples, and pyramids are generally accessible to all ages. If looking to relax, Egypt also offers a number of beaches, ideal for rounding off your Egypt family vacation.
How welcoming is Egypt to LGBTQ travellers?
Egypt is not as accepting of LGBTQ rights as some other nations in Africa. Conservative beliefs still prevail, and homosexual acts and gender diversity, while not technically illegal, are prosecuted under more ambiguous laws. Police crackdowns and entrapments have been reported. All visitors should maintain an understanding of cultural sensitivity regarding the issue. Regardless of orientation, discretion should be practiced in sites of antiquity as well as during day-to-day touring.
What vaccinations are required or suggested for travel to Egypt?
There are no compulsory vaccinations required for Egypt, however, we recommend you consult with your local travel clinic for the most up-to-date recommendations, particularly in regards to malaria prophylactics. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country where yellow fever occurs. Proof of vaccination is also required for travellers coming from or having transited through Eritrea, Rwanda, Somalia, Tanzania, and Zambia.
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