How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Egypt

Home to the world's most celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Egypt is a fascinating holiday destination that's on every traveller's bucket list. Egypt boasts iconic pyramids and temples crafted during the era of the Pharaohs. Planning a trip to this mystical part of the world can be daunting for first-time visitors. From deciding when to travel to choosing the right tour options, here's how to organise an unforgettable tour of Egypt.

Timing the Trip

Although Egypt is not considered a desert nation, it is not a destination that's suitable for tourism all year round. This is why visitors must time their visit to coincide with the spring season in Egypt. This is the most pleasant time of the year in terms of weather conditions as the temperatures are still warm without being too humid. The peak tourist season in Egypt lasts from December to February and is ideal for travellers hailing from colder climates. Although this is the most expensive time of the year to vacation in the country, it beats visiting Egypt during the low season from June to August when temperatures are soaring. Budget travellers looking for a shoulder season will find that the November to March period is more affordable.

Applying for Visa

Egypt allows visitors from EU countries and the USA to arrive in the country without obtaining a tourist visa as visa-upon-arrival is available to citizens of these nations. Those who are hailing from other parts of the world can apply online for an e-visa entry permit at least a week before they fly out to Egypt. As an affordable and convenient option accessible to travellers, e-visas do not require any embassy visits. Mackinnons Travels and other similar air ticketing agents in Sri Lanka can help visitors secure e-visas in addition to booking flights to Egypt.

Sign up for a Cruise on the Nile

A trip to Egypt would not be complete without enjoying a cruise on the river Nile. Visitors will find a wide range of tour operators providing boat excursions between Aswan and Luxor. While there are luxury yachts and other sailboats including the Egyptian Dahabiya serving as cruise vessels, the humble steamboat is perhaps the most romantic way to traverse the Nile. Most cruises last 3-7 days and visitors can select a cruise tour that fits their travel dates and budget.

Explore Tour Options

Although it is possible for travellers to explore the many heritage sites and impressive pyramids in Egypt on their own, first-timers should enlist the help of a local tour operator or a guide. Taking part in a private or group tour is a great way to see the sights and learn everything there is to know about these historical attractions. Make sure the tour package selected includes the main highlights in Egypt such as Abu Simbel, the Pyramids of Giza and The Valley of the Kings. Most tours will also include cultural excursions in Alexandria, Cairo and the Siwa Oasis while the White Desert is another must-experience point of interest.

Packing Tips

It is important to keep Egypt's Islamic heritage and populace in mind when packing for a trip to the country. Although Egypt is not as strict as Saudi Arabia or other more devout nations in the Islamic world when it comes to tourist attire, it is crucial to choose conservative clothing options for the trip. While shorts and tank tops must be left at home, travellers can wear knee-length pants made from cotton or linen. T-shirts and blouses that cover the shoulders are also acceptable while loose-fitting clothes will also go over better than tight-fitting jeans and tops. Sunscreen, sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat are other essentials that one must have to prevent sunburn in Egypt.