Vibrant culture with bustling souks, Nile cruises and desert adventures
Egypt offers travellers a unique opportunity to explore ancient wonders and rich cultural heritage.
The Great Pyramids of Giza are undoubtedly a major highlight, displaying the impressive engineering feats of the ancient Egyptians over 4,500 years ago.
Other noteworthy archaeological sites include the Valley of the Kings in Luxor, home to elaborately decorated pharaonic tombs, and the sprawling Karnak Temple Complex featuring grand architecture. A Nile River cruise allows visitors to leisurely take in scenic riverscapes and glimpses of traditional Egyptian life.
In Cairo, the lively Khan el-Khalili market immerses you in the sights, sounds, and aromas of modern Egyptian culture. Wander the maze of vendors selling souvenirs and local cuisine.
While the ancient monuments and historical sites are certainly captivating, Egypt also has natural scenery and opportunities for outdoor activities that shouldn't be overlooked. From desert safaris to Red Sea diving, diverse experiences are awaiting the adventurous traveller.
Overall, Egypt offers an eclectic mix of activities and attractions catering to various interests. With some pre-trip planning, your Egyptian getaway can be an enriching and fulfilling cultural journey. Just be prepared for the heat if visiting during summer!
Classic Egypt with Nile Cruise
- Cairo
- Luxor
- Esna
- Edfu
- Aswan
- Cairo
This 8-day Egyptian adventure combines the historic wonders of Cairo with a relaxing 4-night cruise down the iconic Nile River.
Egypt Trip Inspiration
When to go to Egypt
A month-by-month guide of when to visit Egypt
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
A good time to visit, with mild temperatures averaging 20°C. Crowds are smaller, making it ideal for exploring popular sites like the Pyramids of Giza and Luxor's ancient temples. Hotel rates are also lower during this low season month.
February
Similar to January, with pleasant weather and fewer tourists. It's a great month for Nile River cruises and desert adventures before the heat intensifies.
March
March is the beginning of the shoulder season, making it perfect for sightseeing. Crowds may increase in some areas, but rates remain relatively low.
April
Warm and sunny, with average highs around 28°C. It's a beautiful time to visit before the peak summer heat, but tourist numbers begin to grow.
May
One of the best months weather-wise, with comfortable temperatures and low humidity. However, it's considered the start of the peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowds.
June
Early summer sees soaring temperatures, often exceeding 35°C. While crowd levels are high, it's an excellent time for diving and snorkeling in the Red Sea.
July
The peak of summer, with scorching heat and minimal rainfall. Tourist numbers are at their highest, but deals on accommodation can be found.
August
Similar to July, with intense heat and humidity. It's a quieter month for cultural attractions but ideal for beach holidays on the Red Sea coast.
September
Temperatures start to cool down, making it a more comfortable time for sightseeing. It's still part of the peak season, but crowds begin to thin out.
October
An excellent shoulder season month, with pleasant weather and smaller crowds. It's a great time for Nile cruises and desert adventures before the cooler winter months.
November
Temperatures continue to drop, averaging around 25°C. It's a superb time for exploring Egypt's ancient sites, with fewer tourists and lower prices.
December
Part of the low season, with mild weather and minimal rainfall. Hotel rates are at their lowest, making it an affordable time to visit major attractions.
Where to go in Egypt
Top places to visit in Egypt
FAQs About Your Egypt Holiday
Planning a holiday to Egypt? Our experts share advice on everything from what to pack, when to go, to tips for families, covering the questions we get asked the most.
What is the best time to visit Egypt?
The best time to visit Egypt is from October to April, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing. This is ideal for exploring the pyramids, temples, and cruising the Nile. Summers (May to September) are very hot, but fewer crowds and lower prices can make it appealing for some travellers.
Is Egypt a good holiday destination?
Yes, Egypt is a fantastic destination, combining ancient history, world-famous monuments, and the timeless Nile. You can explore the Pyramids of Giza, the temples of Luxor, and vibrant Cairo, before relaxing at the Red Sea. Egypt suits both culture lovers and those seeking sunshine, with holidays ranging from luxury cruises to family-friendly beach stays.
How long should I spend in Egypt?
We recommend at least 7–10 days to experience Egypt’s main highlights. This allows time for Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and a short Nile cruise. If you’d like to add the Red Sea coast for diving or relaxation, consider 12–14 days. Longer itineraries can include off-the-beaten-track sites such as Abu Simbel or Alexandria.
How much does a holiday to Egypt cost?
A tailor-made holiday to Egypt usually starts from £2,000 per person for a week, excluding international flights. This typically includes a private guide, internal travel, and quality accommodation. Nile cruises and luxury stays will increase costs, while beach breaks on the Red Sea can be very good value.
What is there to see in Egypt?
Egypt’s highlights include the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Valley of the Kings in Luxor. Nile cruises reveal stunning temples like Karnak and Philae, while Cairo’s Egyptian Museum showcases treasures of Tutankhamun. The Red Sea offers superb diving and snorkelling. Beyond the famous sites, Egypt also has deserts, oases, and ancient monasteries.
How do I get to Egypt?
Egypt is well connected by direct flights from the UK to Cairo, Luxor, Hurghada, and Sharm el Sheikh. Flights to Cairo take just over 5 hours. Domestic flights make it easy to connect between major cultural sites and the Red Sea coast. Trains and private road transfers are also available.
Is Egypt safe to travel to?
Yes, Egypt is safe to travel to, especially to key tourist areas like Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and the Red Sea. Your safety is always our top priority, and our team are always happy to spend time answering any questions or concerns. Just give one of our experts a call on 0203 111 1315. We only sell destinations and experiences that are considered safe for travel at the time of booking. However, situations can change, so we always recommend checking the latest guidance from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) before you travel. We also encourage you to follow any local advice while abroad and take out comprehensive travel insurance for peace of mind.
Do I need a visa to visit Egypt?
The majority of countries we offer require visas to visit. Please give our team of experts a call on 0203 111 1315 to chat through a specific country requirement as these do change over time. Visas can sometimes be purchased on arrival, but often you are required to get one before travel. We recommend visiting the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) website or the relevant embassy for up-to-date information on visas, entry rules, and travel advice as soon as you have booked your trip.
Do I need injections before travelling?
We are not medical specialists and would always advise speaking to your GP or a registered travel health clinic at least 8 weeks before you travel to ensure you have accurate advice. Please be aware that even within a country the advice varies from region to region so we strongly suggest speaking to a medical professional.
Best places to stay in Egypt
Speak to a Egypt expert today
and start planning your tailor-made holiday
Alistair