FAQs on Egypt

The Nile River is one of the most significant geographical features of Egypt, providing the country with fertile land for agriculture and sustaining millions of people. The river flows from south to north, and the Nile Valley and Delta region is home to most of the country’s population and economic activities.

Cairo is fan-shaped, narrowest in the south, where the river valley is wedged between desert escarpments, and widest in the north, where the valley blends into the delta. Over the centuries the city expanded westward, as a receding river channel left land flood-free.

With a population of approximately 105,000,000 people, Egypt is located in the northeast corner of the African continent on the Mediterranean Sea. It is bordered to the northeast by Palestine and Israel, the Red Sea to the east, Sudan to the south and Libya to the west.

Egypt has an area of 1,002,450 km2 (387,050 sq mi) which makes it the 29th largest country in the world. The longest straight-line distance in Egypt from north to south is 1,420 km (880 mi), while that from east to west measures 1,275 km (792 mi).

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office does not advise against visiting Cairo, Alexandria, the Nile tourist areas, or the Red Sea resorts of Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada, as well as the area between the Nile and the Red Sea is also regarded as relatively safe, in fact Gallup Ranked Egypt no 8 in top 10 safest places in the world.

Most nationalities require a visa to enter Egypt as a tourist. Visas are easily attainable on arrival at Cairo airport for most nationalities for US$30 paid in cash, but please check with your travel agent or embassy before departure. On arrival at Cairo airport you buy your visa at any of the banks before proceeding to immigration. You’ll be given a stamp that you then need to put into your passport yourself. A single entry visa is valid for three months from date of issue and entitles the bearer to one month in Egypt. Multiple entry visas are not available at the airport or any border crossings

Applicants must fill out an online visa application form and pay a fee using a credit or debit card to apply for a single or multiple-entry Egypt eVisa, Applicants should submit their applications at least 7 days prior to their trip, Applicants will receive approved Egypt eVisas via email once they have been processed.

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

ATMs are common in large cities such as Cairo and Alexandria and are found in and near shopping centres, tourist areas and 5-star hotels. ATMs are far less common in rural areas and smaller towns so you’re advised to be prepared for this by having enough cash before travelling out of the city.

Some of the must-visit attractions in Cairo include the Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum, Khan el-Khalili market, the Citadel of Saladin, and the Alabaster Mosque.

The duration of your stay in Cairo depends on your interests and the attractions you wish to visit. However, most tourists spend around 2 to 3 days exploring the main highlights and getting a feel for the city.

The best time to visit Cairo is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summers can be extremely hot, while winters can be cooler, especially in the evenings.

Cairo is a conservative city, and it is recommended to dress modestly out of respect for the local culture and traditions. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees, and women may also be required to cover their hair with a scarf in some places.

Cairo has various modes of transportation including taxis, Uber, metro, buses, and organized tours. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are a convenient way to get around, but it’s important to agree on the fare before starting the journey.

Yes, you can visit the Pyramids of Giza on your own. However, it is recommended to hire a guide to provide you with historical information and ensure a smooth experience. Guides can be hired at the entrance of the pyramids.