No matter your interests – from Cairo’s ancient history to exploring the Sahara sands – Tourism in Egypt offers something for everyone. Despite recent travel restrictions and occasional attacks since 2011, Egypt remains a top tourist destination.
For optimal weather, visit Egypt in the spring and fall when temperatures are milder and drier. However, be warned – summers can often be oppressively hot, with temperatures reaching over 100degF (40degC).
Cultural Tourism
Tourism is one of the primary sources of revenue for any country, and Egypt boasts one of the world’s premier tourist destinations, drawing millions of visitors from all corners of the globe annually.
The Egyptian government is actively working to develop the tourism sector and increase visitor numbers. To this end, billions of dollars have been invested into opening new museums and restoring ancient sites to boost cultural and heritage tourism opportunities for travelers.
According to the head of a committee for cultural tourism promotion in Luxor, demand for products and services related to culture-based tourism increased during the winter season that ran from October 1st, 2021 until May 1st, 2022. Prices for such programs also rose 18% compared to last year.
The committee stressed the significance of Luxor’s Avenue of Sphinxes reopening in November 2021 as a major driver for culture-based tourism. They attributed this event as the primary factor behind an increase in demand for such products and subsequent increases to programme prices.
Furthermore, the return of long Nile cruises and the reopening of Dendera Temple are significant drivers for cultural and archaeological tourism. These events are expected to draw in high-spending tourists from abroad.
Although the government is working to encourage foreign travelers to visit Egypt, many remain hesitant. Nevertheless, measures have been taken by the authorities to promote tourism and create a safer travel experience for travelers.
The government has taken steps to strengthen security infrastructure and safeguard its national treasures. Furthermore, it launched several campaigns in an effort to promote cultural and historical tourism.
The antiquities minister of Egypt recently noted the country’s cultural revival, thanks to government support and funding. At a public lecture, he noted how Egypt has invested billions of pounds on new museums, restoring archaeological sites and staging stunning parades as part of its efforts to safeguard its heritage.
Adventure Tourism
Egypt is one of the premier destinations for adventure travel, offering a wide range of activities such as hiking, rock climbing, desert sandboarding and even world-class SCUBA diving. Egypt’s arid landscape makes it ideal for these activities with various itinerary options available to choose from.
Trekkers will love the Sinai peninsula, home to spectacular mountains like Mount Catherine and Sinai from Moses and the Burning Bush’s Biblical story. You’ll have the chance to trek alongside Bedouins on their camels, plus there are some fascinating ancient relics to view.
Trekking enthusiasts often head to Egypt’s White Desert, where calcium rock formations look like icebergs. Not only is this an incredible natural wonder of the world, but it’s also perfect for stargazing!
Travelers on adventure tours often stop along the Nile River for an unforgettable perspective of this stunning river. In fact, taking a cruise can offer even greater insight into its captivating waters.
Tours can be booked from a range of operators at various price points. Some options are budget-friendly while others require hundreds of dollars per day.
In addition to sightseeing, some tours also include a ride on a traditional felucca boat where you can sit under the stars and admire views of the river. Other excursions take you to islands home to Nubian villages, sand dunes and other captivating landmarks.
If you are considering any of these activities, it is wise to book your tour in advance. Doing so can give you great prices on accommodation and flights.
It is essential to know that visas for most countries in Egypt must be purchased upon arrival at the airport. You’ll also need cash on hand for both the application process and fee, which varies based on nationality.
In addition to visiting Egypt’s most iconic landmarks, you should explore Cairo and its city center. This is an excellent opportunity to soak up culture and learn about modern Egyptian history. Take a leisurely walk through Khan el Khalili bazaar for some shopping at various souvenir shops.
Beach Tourism
Egypt’s long coastline is a magnet for beach tourists, whether you’re looking to relax on the shore in a luxurious resort or take an exciting snorkelling or diving expedition. Not only are the country’s beaches stunningly beautiful, they offer plenty of activities suitable for everyone in your family – making Egypt’s beaches truly paradise!
The sand is soft and the water clear, making it ideal for sunbathing or swimming. Plus, there’s an array of marine life to discover including coral reefs and fish.
On Egypt’s beaches, you’ll find many luxurious 5-star resorts designed with families in mind. These establishments provide all of your necessary amenities to make your beach holiday an unforgettable one.
Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada are two popular resorts in Egypt that are renowned for their diving centres, but offer plenty of other activities to keep you occupied while you’re there.
Summer is the ideal time to visit Egypt for a beach holiday, with temperatures usually pleasant enough for sunbathing and playing in the sand. But be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen as temperatures can soar during this period.
July and August are the worst months to travel to Egypt if you’re not used to the hot sun, as temperatures can soar. These are also peak domestic tourism times, so if budgeting is your priority then book a few days ahead of time.
For a more relaxed beach vacation, Marassi on Egypt’s northern shoreline is worth checking out. This growing beach destination features luxurious resorts and premium restaurants along its long shoreline of soft white sands and clear blue waters.
Marsa Matruh is another ideal beach destination for those seeking a quieter stay, located on Egypt’s Mediterranean coastline. This sleepy little town receives many visitors during the summer, with Cleopatra Beach topping the list of beachgoers’ favorites. This beach boasts plenty of soft sand and makes for an idyllic romantic getaway.
Wildlife Tourism
Visiting a wildlife sanctuary in Egypt is an amazing opportunity to view the country’s diverse fauna. Furthermore, it helps protect these animals and their habitats from illegal poaching.
Egypt boasts an array of wildlife parks and sanctuaries open to visitors, so you can find the ideal spot to view some of Egypt’s finest creatures. For instance, Giza Zoo in Cairo has been around since 1891 and features numerous species of birds and mammals.
Another popular tourist destination in Egypt is the Nile River, which flows from Lake Victoria through Aswan. You can take a cruise on this ancient waterway but be sure to select an eco-friendly travel company so your vessel doesn’t pollute the river with fuel or sewage.
The Nile is the longest river in the world and home to numerous animal and bird species, including crocodiles. Additionally, it serves as an important migration route for migratory birds which can be observed along its length.
As one of the driest regions on Earth, it’s wise to be responsible with water usage during your stay. Bottled water should be chosen instead of tapwater as it contains more contaminants and could lead to health issues like schistosomiasis.
Avoid visiting water parks or zoos that allow you to swim with captive dolphins, as this practice is cruel and damaging to these wild creatures. There are a few such parks throughout Egypt, such as Dolphin World in Hurghada which offers the chance for dolphin-swimming experiences; however, this activity should never be recommended.
Other places to visit in Egypt include the deserts and mountains of the country, as well as oases – wetlands in the desert. Here you can spot fennec foxes and other smaller mammals.
You can observe marine wildlife in many of America’s seas, rivers and lakes. Popular marine creatures include manatees, dolphins, whales and dugongs which you may spot while snorkelling or scuba diving in these waters. It’s a truly captivating experience to observe these fascinating creatures up close!
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- Best Places to Visit in Egypt
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