Egypt Travel Guide 2025: Itinerary, Seasons, Visa & Budget Tips
Egypt—a land of ancient wonders, desert mystique, and Nile-fed culture—continues to fascinate travelers with its rich history and vibrant present. From the Great Pyramids and timeless temples to bustling souks and Red Sea beaches, Egypt promises a journey as enlightening as it is awe-inspiring. This Egypt travel guide is your compass to explore the country with cultural awareness and logistical ease.
Quick Facts
Currency
Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Language
Arabic (English widely spoken in tourist areas)
Religion
Predominantly Islam
Visa
eVisa or visa on arrival for most nationalities
Time Zone
GMT+2
Best Time to Visit
October to April (cool and pleasant)
Visa Requirements for Egypt
- eVisa available for Indian citizens at visa2egypt.gov.eg
- Requirements: Passport (valid 6 months), hotel booking, itinerary, return ticket
Best Time to Visit Egypt in 2025
- October to April: Ideal for sightseeing, desert tours, and Nile cruises
- May to September: Hot summer, best for Red Sea resorts and underwater activities
Cultural Events & Highlights
- Ramadan (March–April): Spiritual season; many shops close during the day
- Abu Simbel Sun Festival (Feb & Oct): Light illuminates the temple interior
- Cairo International Film Festival (November)
Egypt 10-Day Itinerary
Day 1–2: Cairo
- Explore the Pyramids of Giza and Sphinx
- Visit the Egyptian Museum and Khan El Khalili Bazaar
- Evening Nile dinner cruise
Day 3–4: Aswan
- Fly or take an overnight train to Aswan
- Visit Philae Temple, Nubian Village, and the High Dam
- Optional: Abu Simbel day trip
Day 5–6: Nile Cruise to Luxor
- Sail along the Nile with stops at Kom Ombo and Edfu Temples
- Sunset views from the cruise deck
Day 7–8: Luxor
- Explore Valley of the Kings and Queen Hatshepsut Temple
- Visit Karnak and Luxor Temples
- Optional hot air balloon ride over the West Bank
Day 9–10: Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh
- Relax on the Red Sea coast
- Snorkeling, diving, or desert quad biking
- Return to Cairo or depart from the Red Sea airport
Budget Breakdown (Per Day, Per Person in INR)
| Type | Budget Traveller | Mid-Range | Luxury |
| Accommodation | ₹1,500 | ₹4,000 | ₹10,000+ |
| Food | ₹500 | ₹1,500 | ₹3,000 |
| Transport | ₹1,000 | ₹2,500 | ₹4,000 |
| Attractions | ₹700 | ₹1,200 | ₹2,500 |
| Total | ₹3,700 | ₹9,200 | ₹19,500+ |
Local SIM Cards & Connectivity
- Top Providers: Vodafone Egypt, Orange, Etisalat
- Where to Buy: Cairo Airport, local outlets
- Cost: INR 400–800 for SIM + data plans
Travel Tips for Egypt
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques and rural areas
- Carry cash for markets and tipping (baksheesh is customary)
- Stay hydrated; bottled water is recommended
- Learn basic Arabic greetings for friendly interactions
- Travel with local guides for deeper historical insights
Final Thoughts:
Why Visit Egypt? Egypt invites you to stand where pharaohs once ruled, sail a timeless river, and explore one of humanity’s oldest civilizations. Whether you’re chasing desert sunsets or unraveling the mystery of hieroglyphs, Egypt is not just a destination—it’s a living museum waiting to be discovered.
Uncover the past. Embrace the present. Egypt is calling.
