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If you’re seeking the best of both worlds, holidays to Egypt tick all the boxes for an unforgettable escape. From its historic treasures in Cairo dating back to the Ancient Gods to its idyllic Red Sea coastline teeming with marine life. When it comes to toe-sinking beaches, bustling bazaars and a stand-out party scene, Sharm El Sheikh holidays should be your go-to. And for world-famous coral reefs combined with lazy days in the sun, Hurghada holidays are the perfect destination. Thanks to Egypt’s year-round sizzling climate, it’s the ultimate winter warmer too!
Things to do
When it comes to world-renowned experiences, Egypt holidays won’t disappoint. Discover the Great Pyramids of Giza, the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the World. Or, for millennia-old monuments of another kind, Nile River Valley is a must-visit. But no trip is complete without exploring Luxor’s temples and Pharaonic sites. Between sand dunes and dusty ruins are the bazaars of Cairo, where handmade treasures and traditional cuisine provide a glimpse into local culture. As for adventures through the desert, a camel ride is one for the bucket-list.
With Red Sea holidays at your fingertips it’s never been so easy to uncover unique marine life. After all, Egypt is home to some of the world’s best scuba diving spots. Swim its depths to find hidden caves and famous wreckages. Simply pack your snorkel and check out Sharm El Sheikh’s renowned coral reefs or get your diving gear on and discover the marine-life rich waters of Hurghada.And if you prefer dry land but love marine wildlife then Hurghada Grand Aquarium is perfect for families and those wanting the best of both worlds!
When you’re not in awe of the Valley of the Kings or cruising the Nile, you have Hurghada marina with its quirky stores, fine dining and endless entertainment options. Bahariya Oasis is another one for the to-do list when you want to experience nature's handy work. This oasis in the middle of the desert is made up of natural springs and adorning mountains. You may even spot a tomb or two while exploring its vast terrain.
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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including Red Sea | El Gouna | Hurghada | Makadi Bay | Sharm el Sheikh
Map of Egypt
18-33 ℃
This country is a sun-seeker’s paradise, with long, warm days throughout the year. Weather wise, there isn't a bad time to visit!
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Five and a half hours
It takes between five and five and a half hours to fly here from the UK.
Hurghada International Airport lies approximately 8km southwest of central Hurghada; Marsa Alam International Airport lies approximately 60km north of Marsa Alam.
Types of holidays in Egypt
- Egypt all inclusive holidays
- Egypt family holidays
- Egypt last minute holidays
- Egypt package holidays
- Egypt beach holidays
- Egypt summer holidays
Egypt is best for...
Underwater explorers: With over 250km of coastal reefs, there’s plenty of opportunity for magical sea adventures. Sharks Bay will guarantee an unforgettable diving experience, whether you’re a green-gilled snorkeler or an expert deep sea swimmer, the Red Sea is renowned for its 1,200 species of fish, 120 of which are found nowhere else in the world. No wonder it’s one of the world’s top destinations for underwater explorations!
Beach lover’s: Soaking up the sun on a powder-soft sand beach is a highlight of any holiday. While all of Egypt’s sand spots are stunning in themselves, there are a few jewels in the country’s crown: look out for the Sunken City of the Sahl Hasheesh Bay, El Nayzak in Marsa Alam, and Soma Bay, near Hurghada.
Active types: While there are plenty of watersports for you to get involved with on your holiday to Egypt, there’s even more on offer on land. Go rock-climbing in Dahab, kayak along the Nile; head over to Cairo for your history fix. Golf fanatics should check out Makadi Bay holidays for the ultimate 18-hole fairway. And did we mention you can even go skiing on an indoor slope, complete with over 7,000 tons of snow?
Fast facts for Egypt
Language:The main language spoken in Egypt is Arabic, so make sure to pack a phrasebook. But don’t worry, English is also widely spoken in many tourist areas making it easy to communicate with the locals.
Currency: The currency used here is the Egyptian pound (E£).
Local time: Egypt is 2 hours ahead of GMT/UK time.
Fly to: Hurghada International Airport. Transfer times to resorts are around 30 minutes.
Flight time fromUK: The flight time to Egypt is around 5 hours.
Tourist information: Find out more from the Egyptian Tourism Authority.
Visa /health: Before your holiday to Egypt, check the FCDO websitefor recommendations and advice on visas and health.
Top holiday destinations in Egypt:
- Red Sea
- Hurghada
- Sharm El Sheikh
- El Gouna
- Makadi Bay
Getting around Egypt
By bus: Each resort has a good network of minibuses operating around the main towns. There are three main companies to look out for all taking you to Cairo, which are advised to be booked in advance where possible. The Upper Egypt Company route provides a scenic trip to the Nile Valley down the Red Sea coast and to El-Quseir. Those holidaying in Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh will need to look out for the Middle Delta buses when you’re wanting to check out the Pyramids of Giza. And for Sinai and the Canal Zone, hop on an East Delta.
By taxi: It’s easy to flag down a taxi and it’s one of the most convenient ways to get around Egypt. It’s also an inexpensive way to travel. Metered taxis are common in big-name cities such as Cairo, but local resorts tend to have a fixed rate. It’s advised to agree on a price before your departure to avoid any confusion.
By shuttle bus: Many hotels operate shuttle buses into town or the nearest beach, simply ask reception for more details.
Events in Egypt
On the waterfront: Friday night is Marina Party night in El Gouna with live music and dancing beside the bobbing yachts, it's a party-goers paradise.
Ramadan: The fasting month of Ramadan is marked across the country, although it won’t be as disruptive in the resorts as elsewhere in the country. Immediately afterwards, the festivals of Eid al-Fitr, and later Eid al-Adha, are holidays when Egyptian families will often travel to resorts, so these are likely to be busier.
Egypt safety and security
Do I need a passport?
You’ll need a valid passport to enter Egypt. Passports must be valid for at least six months from the date you enter the country, otherwise, you won’t be allowed to travel.
For more info on passports and other entry requirements, click through to the UK government's Egypt travel advice.
Do I need a visa?
Depending on where in Egypt you’re travelling to, British passport holders may require a tourist visa to travel to Egypt. If you need one, you can get it online by visitingVisa2Egypt and it will be valid for a maximum of three months.
If you’re a British national staying in the resort of Sharm el-Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba and Taba, you’ll receive a free entry permission stamp upon arrival. This will be valid for up to 15 days. If you’re planning on travelling outside these areas or staying for longer than 15 days, you’ll need to get a visa.
It’s also possible to obtain a tourist visa when you arrive in Egypt. They’re available at approved bank kiosks in airport arrival halls, before you get to the immigration counter. The cost of a visa is US$25 and they’re valid for a maximum of 30 days. However, it’s strongly recommended that you get one before you travel to avoid any border issues.
Check the FCDO for more Egypt visa information and details of entry requirements to the country, head to. If you have any questions, contact the Egyptian Consulate in London.
Should I get travel health insurance?
You should always buy comprehensive travel and health insurance when you go on holiday. It means you’ll be covered for overseas medical expenses if anything happens, such as medical repatriation and legal costs. Just be sure to check what’s included in your policy before you buy it, and make sure it covers any activities you’ll be doing on holiday.
Any other tips?
It can get very hot in Egypt, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Keep bottled water with you at all times.
- Depending on when you’re going on holiday, there may be mosquitoes around. You’ll need to wear insect repellent to ensure you don’t get bitten; it’s available to buy while you’re out there, but it’s worth bringing some along with you in case you can’t find any.
- The political situation in the Middle East can be volatile, so please check with your hotel concierge if you want to head off on your own to go exploring. They’ll be able to give you advice on travelling safely in Egypt.
Egypt weather
Temperature:18-33 (°C)
When’s the best time to go?
It’s hot, it’s sunny, and it’s packed full of history: Our Egypt travel advice is to put a trip to this extraordinary and unique country right at the top of your bucket-list. Egypt really is a year-round destination, temperatures often rise above 35°C in summer, and they hover around 20°C in winter. For sun-kissed beaches, Hurghada holidays are a must with waters boasting a toasty 24°C, the perfect scuba diving conditions! If you like things warm but not too hot then spring and autumn are the best times to go when temperatures are in the high 20s.
Chances are you won’t have to worry about wet weather during your trip, as it hardly ever rains here. It can get chilly when the sun goes down though, so keep this in mind when you’re packing your bags.
What should I pack?
Unless you’re heading to Egypt in winter, you’ll need to pack for hot weather. You’ll need plenty of lightweight clothes, and don’t forget your sunglasses. Bring some suncream too, and make it a high factor (30 and above) because the UV rays are pretty intense here. Things can cool down a little in the evening during the winter months, so a light jacket is worth packing to protect yourself from any night time chills.
Make sure you bring a pair of comfy walking shoes. They’ll come in handy if you’re planning on trekking through those ancient Egyptian archaeological ruins. And be prepared to cover up at any holy sites, long skirts and trousers are ideal!
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Popular Egypt holiday resorts
The cosmopolitan resort of Hurghada is the capital of the Red Sea Riviera, where beautiful beaches, vibrant nightclubs and world-class diving destinations await. It’s a world away from its origins as a small fishing village, yet is maintains all of its Egyptian charm. Tucked away in the depths of the turquoise waters are striking underwater coral gardens just waiting to be explored by eager divers; they’re awash with incredible marine life like pretty butterfly fish and glow-in-the-dark anemones.
As well as underwater experiences, the possibilities for family fun are virtually endless on Hurghada holidays, with everything from paddling in the shallow shores of white-sand beaches to diving in the deep, blue sea and sailing on a catamaran
What do I need to pack?
With the ‘Capital of the Red Sea’ sitting on the edge of the Sahara Desert, you can expect the sun to be strong, so be sure to take plenty of sunscreen on your holiday to Hurghada. Unlike other tropical climates, there’s little or no humidity, so cool and airy clothes made from natural fibres like cotton, linen or bamboo are perfect.
Egypt is a conservative country, so it’s advisable for women to cover up once they’re away from the beach. Pack long dresses, long-sleeved shirts and, if you’re thinking of visiting any religious sites, a headscarf is also a good idea. Similarly, men ought to pack some trousers as, even in modern cities like Cairo, too much flesh can cause unintended offence.
For those who want to bring gadgets with them, a plug adaptor is essential, and it can be helpful to have a portable power pack to hand.
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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including Hurghada Resort |Red Sea|El Gouna|Makadi Bay|Sharm El Sheikh
Hurghada began life as a tiny fishing village on the Red Sea Riviera, and over the years has blossomed into a full-scale seaside resort. As well as its beautiful white sand beaches and world-class diving, Hurghada is a great place to shop and has some of the best nightlife around, with a lively waterfront packed with bars and clubs.
Things to do
Visit Hurghada’s new marina to plan a sailing excursion out to the uninhabited Giftun Island, or go scuba diving in the crystal clear depths of the Red Sea. Pick a comfy spot on the soft, sandy beaches for a little relaxation, or get involved with the water sports; Hurghada’s beach has a reputation for great water skiing and kite surfing.
For family holidays, it’s well worth visiting one of the city’s nearby water sports like Makadi Water World, where you can cool off on a hot day at the slides and wave pool. The city has an energetic nightlife scene, with a buzzing waterfront lined with bars and clubs.
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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including Red Sea | El Gouna | Hurghada | Makadi Bay | Sharm el Sheikh
Spread around a turquoise lagoon on the Red Sea, El Gouna lies in one of the most picturesque locations on the Riviera. Hurghada’s deluxe neighbour, El Gouna is a modern and self-contained seaside resort with luxury hotels, a championship golf course and white-sand beaches. It’s also one of Egypt’s premier diving and snorkelling locations, with fantastic excursion opportunities and plenty of fun sports and beach activities for kids.
Things to do
The resort’s sun-drenched waterfront has a hive of activity during the day. Pick your perfect spot on the picture-perfect beach and sunbathe on the white sand, before taking a dip in the turquoise water. If you’re eager to explore the Red Sea further, why not book a diving excursion and take a closer look? For golf lovers, there’s the 18-hole golf course, set against magnificent coastal scenery.
Memorable adventures are plentiful, too, including deserts safaris on quadbikes and jeeps. Head for the harbour to enjoy a fresh fish dish and all kinds of local specialties. You’ll also find stylish shops in this part of town. El Gouna holidays are ideal for kids too, with mini golf, go-karting and boat trips going on all year.
Excellent beaches
There are a number of lovely beaches to spend time relaxing on sun loungers in the hot, Egyptian sun. Most beaches have white, soft sand that shelves gently into the stunning turquoise waters. The beach has a backdrop of fragrant shrubbery, adding a splash of colour to the desert landscape. If you want to relax in an upbeat atmosphere, head over to Mangroovy Beach. The sandy shores have a vast array of water sports available for you to try and it’s said to be the best location in the country for kite surfing and diving. All beaches have great amenities with shops, restaurants and cafés for a break out of the sunshine.
History and culture
The relatively new build was brought to life in the 1990s to ensure holidaymakers have everything they may need in one neatly placed paradise. The small town is home to over 22,000 residents and is spread across islands around cool lagoons. You’re able to explore Egypt’s historic wonders and archaeological treasures with the ancient temples of Luxor and Aswan within easy enough reach. Conveniently located 25 kilometres north of Hurghada, the airport is also easy accessible.
Vibrant nightlife
The picturesque resort is made up of All Inclusive complexes so you wont have to travel far as the majority of the nightlife is focused in the hotels. Enjoy a co*cktail whilst sitting outside under the stars after dining in one of the restaurants and sampling traditional cuisines. You may find that the evening entertainment consists of live music, cabaret or dance shows, which can be enjoyed no matter what your age.
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We also have travel guides available for destinations, includingRed Sea|Hurghada|Makadi Bay|Sharm el Sheikh
Makadi Bay is a modern seaside resort developed around a picturesque bay on the Red Sea Riviera. A quieter option to neighbouring Hurghada, Makadi Bay is popular for its idyllic palm-fringed beaches, spectacular diving and an 18-hole golf course. The resort is the ideal base for sailing and diving excursions, with a buzzing waterfront filled with quality hotel resorts gazing out across the bay.
Things to do
Explore Makadi Bay’s breathtaking Red Sea coast with a day’s sailing trip, either in a fishing boat, leisurely catamaran or glass-bottom boat tour. Keen divers can venture out to sea to experience the region’s wrecks and reefs, or snorkel in the vibrant waters surrounding Giftun Island. Next, head to the beach and pick a good spot on the silky, white sand wrapped around the turquoise bay. The water sports in Makadi Bay are excellent, with everything from parasailing to speed boat rides. If golf is your thing, then make a beeline for the resort’s championship golf course, with top-class facilities and magnificent scenery.
Excellent beaches
The beautiful coastline of Makadi Bay is made up of pale, golden sand that lies in a unique horseshoe shape. The beach is popular in the daytime, but you’ll still be able to find your own spot of paradise on the beach. If you fancy a more upbeat activity, there are a large variety of water sports to try, including jet skiing, windsurfing, paragliding and even pedal boats. Snorkelling is a must in Makadi Bay as the vibrant reefs are a haven for exotic fish.
Shopping
Shopping is popular in Makadi Bay as you are able to experience a mix of western and traditional culture in one afternoon. Enjoy haggling at the grand bazaars found in the heart of Makadi.
Purchase unique Alabaster statues and handcrafted art, including beautiful hieroglyphics and illustrations on ancient papyrus paper. Walk through the bustling bazaar and browse the fragrant stalls of specially made perfumes, oils and spices.
Nightlife
The Makadi Bay nightlife is fairly low-key with the majority of after dark activities focused in the resort hotels. Dine on a delicious meal and sip on a co*cktail in the beautifully warm evening climate. Enjoy nightly entertainment from the comfort of your All Inclusive hotel in this purpose built resort. If you are in need of something a little livelier, just a short drive away is the bustling town of Hurghada where you’ll be able to find plenty of buzzing bars and clubs.
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We also have travel guides available for destinations, includingRed Sea|El Gouna|Hurghada|Sharm el Sheikh
One of Egypt’s oldest and most popular holiday resorts, Sharm El Sheikh wins fans for its breathtaking location on the Sinai Peninsula. The Red Sea coast provides white-sand beaches and some of the finest diving in the world, with crystalline waters teeming with underwater life, wrecks and coral reefs. As well as the diving, Sharm El Sheikh is the ideal place for desert safaris, where you can ride camels through the dunes and camp out under the stars.
Things to do
Start your romance with Sharm El Sheikh on the coast, where the miles of white sand are at your disposal for soaking up the sun, getting stuck into water sports or swimming in the warm sea. Diving excursions are a must, as the Red Sea is one of the finest diving destinations in the world. If you’re away with kids, spend the day at the local water park, which has a staggering 44 water slides and lots of swimming pools to enjoy. Explore the bustling souls in Sharm El Sheikh’s old town to pick up unique Bedouin souvenirs, or plan an excursion through the desert by camelback.
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We also have travel guides available for destinations, includingRed Sea|El Gouna|Hurghada|Makadi Bay
Perfect for watersports lovers - or if you're looking to get started - Sharks Bay is a quieter part of the wider Sharm el Sheikh area. It's pretty laidback and is mostly centred around the great diving that's on offer. Explore the underwater drama of this idyllic spot.
Things to do
Sharks Bay is all about its dazzling coast, so head down to the golden beach and prepare yourself for a little adventure. The water sports are fantastic, with parasailing and speedboat rides to keep you busy. Take snorkelling trip to experience the tranquil Red Sea or plan a scuba diving excursion further afield. Back on dry land, the desert is another part of Egypt ripe for exploration, with camel treks or quad bike excursions around the rolling dunes. Sharm El Sheik’s popular water park is a hit with kids for its choice of pools and slides, and while you’re there, browse the old town’s lively souks.
Places similar to Egypt to visit
Bustling cities, laid-back beaches and historic sights galore; you’ll find all this and more on a holiday to Morocco, served with a generous helping of North African sunshine. Morocco offers all the exotic attractions of a holiday to the Middle East, combined with some unique African character. Souk-filled Marrakech (or Marrakesh if you prefer) is a popular destination, where you’ll discover a fascinating medina and the towering Atlas Mountains within easy reach.
The city’s not far from the Atlantic coast, where Agadir holidays promise a long sandy beach and crumbling Kasbah. Or, you could choose the chilled-out seaside town of Essaouira if you really want to get away from it all. That all comes together to make Morocco holidays a dazzling feast for the senses, and a great spot for some serious sunbathing, too!
Things to do
Looking for the best beaches the country has to offer? Visiting them tops the list of things to do in Morocco! Head south to discover vibrant resorts and pristine white sands. You’ll find a 10km stretch in Agadir, which is a wonderful place to try your hand at windsurfing or take a leisurely boat trip.
You’ll only be a stone’s throw from the maze-like souks and nightlife in Agadir town centre, too. There are also some great nightclubs in Marrakech, but if you’re after a traditional Moroccan experience, you’ll love getting lost in the city’s medina (old town) and exploring the ancient sights. And don’t forget to look out for the magnificent minarets and energetic street performers while you’re there.
Where to go
Morocco’s southwest coast is known for its year-round sunshine, with temperatures rarely dipping below 20°C. It has fantastic beaches characterised by classic white-gold sand and upbeat, modern resorts. Holiday resorts like Agadir and Essaouira are considered the best in the whole country for a beach break. You’ll find a range of family-friendly hotels, plus some great shopping and top water sports.
Up in the northwest, dip your toes in the Mediterranean at Tangier, where there’s a more multicultural vibe. Meanwhile, the famous bustle of Jemaa El Fna square makes Marrakech holidays a must for a more traditional place to experience Morocco’s culture. There are other alluring cities, too, including Fez (aka Fes) and coastal Rabat. Wherever you stay, make sure you pack some kind of cover-up - Morocco is a Muslim country that follows Islamic laws and customs, and it’s important to respect these at all times.
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Ready to find out more? Check out our other Morocco holiday guides: Agadir | Marrakech
A land bursting with souks and spices amidst desert dunes. A place for romantics, beach-lovers, barterers and adventurers, this sun-kissed land entices and delights many people for many reasons. The Romans loved it, and so do we, and it's not hard to think why with our great selection of Tunisia holidays.
Things to do
A land bursting with souks and spices amidst desert dunes. A place for romantics, beach-lovers, barterers and adventurers, this sun-kissed land entices and delights many people for many reasons. The Romans loved it, and so do we, and it’s not hard to think why with our great selection of Tunisia holidays. Echoing with the regular call to prayer, Hammamet will give you a rich taste of the exotic.
Places to stay
With crystal blue waters, sandy bays and a rich, cultural history, Tunisia is the perfect place to go on holiday. On your holiday to Tunisia, you can choose to explore Hammamet’s resort or the city of Monastir. Both places are home to some amazing history, like Monastir’s Forte El Ribat castle which sits on the seafront, or the 13thcentury Kasbah in Hammamet. If you prefer to soak up some traditional culture on your holiday to Tunisia, wander down to Monastir’s marina to look at the pretty boats and mingle amongst locals, or pick up a bargain at Hammamet’s Medina.
What should I pack?
Your holiday wardrobe will depend on what time of year you’re travelling and the activities you’re planning. It’s wise to check the weather forecast before you go.
During the summer, loose, cotton clothing can help keep you cool when the temperature rises. Dressing conservatively is also advised (Tunisia is a Muslim country). For example, women shouldn’t wear mini-skirts, and a headscarf must be worn when visiting a mosque, while men should avoid shorts and vest tops when visiting religious sites.
Even though it’s hot during the day, it’s worth packing something a little warmer to wear in the evening; in certain parts of Tunisia, temperatures can actually fall below 0°C when the sun goes down, especially in the more mountainous areas.
Planning on hiking? You’ll need hiking boots to take on those sandy deserts and rocky paths, so make sure they’re sturdy and comfortable.
Don’t forget sun cream
You can expect lots of glorious sunshine in Tunisia, so be sure to pack your sunglasses. Bring plenty of sun cream, too, as it can be very expensive to buy when you’re out there. A sun hat can is great for keeping the sunshine at bay, especially for the kids.
Bring mosquito repellent
Be sure to bring mosquito repellent with you, just in case you can’t find any while you’re out there. It’s always sensible to wear it in the evenings.
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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Djerba | Hammamet | Port el Kantaoui | Sousse
Untouched sand, year-round sunshine and amazing wildlife sightings, Cape Verde holidays offer that off-the-beaten-track feel without traveling too far. Africa’s answer to the Caribbean, this exotic chain of 10 islands is only a short six hours from the UK. From its fascinating mix of cultures to the verdant meets volcanic landscape, there are few places that dish up so much diversity. With an incredible coastline, Sal tends to come out on top, while Boa Vista is often favoured by families thanks to its choice of Blue Flag beaches.
Things to do
Whether you want to relax along the sand, soak up the vibrant music scene or test out the exhilaring watersports, you certainly won’t run out of things to do on your Cape Verde holidays.
Everyday is a beach day here, and we suggest you start your shore-hopping adventures in Sal. From its oceanside drinking spots, to its impressive set of watersports and swim-friendly waters, Santa Maria’s coast is a fantastic option for families. Wander east and you’ll come to the aptly named Kite Beach.This windy spot attracts some of the world’s best riders, all waiting to catch the perfect wave. Want to get involved with the surfing action? There’s a school where you can book lessons right on the sand. For quiet sunbathing stints surrounded by rolling sand dunes, Boa Vista’s Praia de Chaves is a great spot for romantic strolls.
Sightseeing on the sand is also an option on your Boa Vista holidays. Head to Praia de Atalanta and you’ll find an old Spanish cargo ship deserted in the water. Today it is a must-visit attraction, not to mention one of Cape Verde’s most photographed spots. Those looking for a relaxing float should swap Cape Verde’s beaches for the salt pans of Pedra de Lume. Home to an extinct volcano, the water is said to be saltier than the Dead Sea, while the mud from the lake will do wonders for your skin.
If you like your Cape Verde holidays with a slice of action, don’t miss out on the long list of adrenaline-fuelled activities. Scuba diving is a great way to see the local marine life with opportunities to swim alongside turtles and mantas. Buracona (or, Blue Eye) is a natural cave and a must-visit for submerged adventures. And even if you don’t dive in, it’s worth a visit just for its incredible waters, which change to a beautiful turquoise colour under the sunlight.
If you don’t fancy getting wet, there’s plenty of land-based action too. Ride a quad bike across its mars-like desert or hop on a saddle and enjoy a horse ride along the beach at sunset.
After all of the activity, it’s time to slow things down in the island towns or fishing villages. Santa Maria in Sal is a great place to start with its local market and fantastic restaurants, where you can tuck into dishes influenced by Portugal, Africa and Brazil. If you come here after-dark, the place has a totally different vibe, so don’t be surprised if you get drawn into one of the bars playing Cape Verdean ‘morna’ music. This combination of guitar, violin and soulful lyrics, is a musical experience you won’t want to miss.
Unsure of the best time of the year to visit? Check the weather in Cape Verde to see which month is right for you.
Egypt FAQs
FAQs
Which part of Egypt is best for a holiday?
The Red Sea Riviera has it all! Stunning beaches, blue sea, year-round swimwear weather and a fantastic choice of hotels make it one of the best destinations in Egypt for sure. Whether you’re looking for a family holiday, 5-star luxury, the ease of All Inclusive food and drink, local history, the challenge of a top-class golf course, or the peace of a spa, you’ll find it along the Red Sea coast.
And if you’re after specific recommendations, here are our favourite resorts:
1. Sharm el Sheikh: made up of a series of mini resorts on idyllic bays, Sharm has something for everyone
2. Hurghada: once a traditional fishing village, now known as the ‘Capital of the Red Sea Riviera’
3. Makadi Bay: Hurghada’s quieter neighbour, for the ultimate in downtime
Is alcohol allowed in Egypt?
You can drink alcohol in licensed bars and restaurants in Egypt, but be aware it can be hard to buy outside of the holiday resorts. You might need to show your passport, especially during Ramadan (you’ll need to check the dates before you travel as they’re different each year). It’s not ok to get drunk in public, though, so don’t plan a big session.
Booking an All Inclusive holiday? Don’t worry, alcohol is included in your package, just like in other All Inclusive hotels around the world.
If you’re up for a peppy non-alcoholic bevvy, Egypt does fantastic coffee. There’s plenty of tea too, traditionally served black with lots of sugar. And if you have the chance to try the hibiscus drink ‘karkaday’, do – it’s great hot or cold.
When is Egypt hot?
Egypt has hot weather all year. On the Red Sea Riviera, where the holidays we sell are located, you can expect average highs of 21°C in December and January. In the hottest months (June, July and August), the thermometer can hit peaks of 39 - 40°C.
What are the dos and don’ts in Egypt?
Dos:
1. Dress appropriately: Egypt is a conservative country, so it's important to dress appropriately – especially if you’re visiting religious sites. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid wearing shorts.
2. Respect local customs: Egyptians are generally very friendly and hospitable, but it's important to respect their customs and traditions. For example, avoid public displays of affection when you’re away from the resort (including holding hands!), and always ask permission before taking someone's picture.
3. Learn some basic Arabic phrases: Although many Egyptians speak English, it's always a good idea to learn a few local words, such as "hello" (as-salamu alaykum) and "thank you" (shukran).
4. Be prepared for the heat: Egypt can be very hot, especially during the summer months. Make sure you pack sunscreen and a hat, and keep plenty of bottled water with you.
5. Try the local cuisine: Egyptian food is delicious and varied. While you’re sure to find plenty of familiar foods at your hotel, it's definitely worth sampling some local dishes during your visit. Some popular bites include koshari (a spiced dish of lentils, rice and pasta with a tomato sauce), ful medames (stewed broad beans, a popular part of breakfast or brunch), and shawarma (the well-known kebab has been a staple of Egyptian street food way longer than we’ve been eating it in Britain).
Don'ts:
1. Don't take photos of military installations or personnel: This is strictly prohibited in Egypt, and doing so can result in serious consequences.
2. Don't drink tap water: The tap water in Egypt is going to upset your stomach, so make sure you only drink bottled water or water that has been properly purified.
3. Don't be disrespectful at religious sites: Egypt is home to many important religious sites, and it's important to be considerate when you visit them. This includes dressing appropriately (save the bare skin for the beach!), not taking photos during prayer times, and not touching or sitting on religious objects.
4. Don't hire unlicensed tour guides: While it may be a tempting way to save money, it's not recommended. Always make sure you hire a licensed tour guide or book your sightseeing trips through us.
5. Don’t forget to tip: ‘Baksheesh’ is a key part of life in Egypt, helping supplement wages. So make sure you tip everyone from the cleaner to your tour guides.
You can find out more about Egyptian laws and customs from the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office.
What is Egypt known for?
• Beaches: Stunning golden sands lapped by the beautiful blue of the Red Sea, dotted with palm trees, and drenched in gorgeous sunshine. What’s not to love?
• The Pyramids and Sphinx: They’re quite a long way from the Red Sea resorts but you can still visit on a day trip to Cairo or Luxor. It’s a packed day out with an early start and late return to your hotel, so you’ll want to plan a quiet day on the beach afterwards. But don’t worry, it’s totally worth it!
• Scuba diving: Check out the many dive schools with courses and scuba trips for beginners and experienced divers of all ages.
• Golf: Egypt’s home to some fantastic championship courses, so pack your golf shoes and make your way to the first tee.
• Shopping: From the air-conditioned comfort of Senzo Mall to the authentic market in Old Town Sharm el Sheikh, you can pick up souvenirs like traditional Bedouin crafts (remember to haggle!), browse local boutiques, and take a break with a tasty pastry in a modern coffee shop.
• Desert adventures: Head into the Sahara for a 4x4 trek across the dunes. Have dinner in a Bedouin village. Go star gazing and see the Milky Way stretching out above you.
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