Egypt

A storied land of ancient treasures and natural splendour, made for unforgettable adventures

Egypt truly ranks as a ‘pinch yourself’ destination. Even when you’re there, standing among millennia-old tombs and colossal temples, you’re likely to feel like you’re dreaming. Contrast the fast pace of Cairo with frozen-in-time desert views. Make for the Nile and chart a luxury cruise to Egypt’s jewels: Luxor, the Valley of the Kings, Karnak and Aswan. With thousands of years of history brought to life with vibrant culture, an escape to Egypt will always bring something new to discover. 

Practical Information

Currency
Egyptian Pound (in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200). Cash is preferred to card in smaller or more local businesses

Public holidays
Egypt observes Christian and Islamic holidays as well as national days such as Revolution Day on 23rd July, with around 15 public holidays per year

Cuisine
Generously flavoured with herbs, spices and olive oil. Expect plenty of dishes based on legumes and vegetables, such as ful medames, as well as smoky grilled meat.

Tipping etiquette
Tipping is a cultural norm and expected whenever a service is provided. 10-20% is customary.

Transport
Train and bus routes link Cairo with major sites in the Nile River Valley, including Luxor, Aswan, and Alexandria. Luxor and Aswan are popular hubs for Nile cruises

When To Go

Winter in Egypt runs roughly in parallel with the UK, from October to February, although the temperature will still be at the balmy end of the barometer. Blistering sun from June until August means it’s best to stick to the cooler coast. While spring and autumn are pleasantly balanced – and the busiest sites are a bit less bustling.   

Top Tip from SLH

A cutting-edge home for the nation’s ancient treasures, visit the Grand Egyptian Museum to get closer to awe-inspiring artefacts as well as contemporary artworks