Egypt

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Eco-friendly travel guide to Egypt advises how to be a responsible tourist. Learn how to travel in a sustainable way and how to respect the local people and culture. Make your trip green by supporting locally owned hotels, organic restaurants and other businesses. Read more on how to protect the environment by making conscientious choices and how to travel green in Egypt, Africa.

Panoramic view of Cairo


  • Air quality: 3.0 / 5
  • Bus connections: 3.0 / 5
  • Train connections: 3.5 / 5
  • Hitchhiking: 3.0 / 5
  • National parks: 3.5 / 5
  • Outdoor activities: 3.5 / 5
  • Locals' English level: 3.0 / 5
  • Safety: 3.0 / 5
  • Accommodation: US$10 - $100
  • Budget per day: US$25 - $150

Responsible Travel

The Arab Republic of Egypt, or what is known as Egypt, is one of the most popular transcontinental countries all around the globe. The country has a rich and bright history that dates back to the 6th to 4th millennia BCE. Not only is the country marked as the place of development and civilization of mankind, but it also has some of the most breathtaking monuments that attract tourists from all around the globe. When you visit a monumental country like Egypt, it is important for you to understand its impact on the environment and take active precautions to ensure that you do not cause any harm to it.

As tourists, we often feel detached from the environment around us and do not take proper care. However, this cannot be tolerated, especially in the 21st century. It would help if you travel responsibly, and here are some means to achieve that goal:

  • When you are traveling to a foreign destination, you must use public modes of transportation. Not only will this provide you with an excellent opportunity to get up close and personal with the locals, but it also lets you have an immersive experience. It is much better for the environment and will help you to travel sustainably.
  • A bicycle is the best means for you to travel to a foreign country. Bicycles are eco friendly and will help you to travel and explore the country on your means. It gives a great degree of freedom that you simply cannot get with the help of any other means. A bicycle is one of the most eco-friendly modes of transportation that is affordable and reliable.
  • When you are traveling to a foreign destination like Egypt, you should never litter. Such places are of much historical value, and you need to pay respect to that. It is always prescribed that you carry around a spare bag to store your trash when traveling around. Do not throw packets and other things here and there. When you find a trash bin, you can empty your trash bag's contents in a sophisticated manner.
  • Egypt is the country where civilization originated, and hence it is an extremely poignant country with so much to look around and discover. The breathtaking details and cultural significance cannot simply be undermined. It is hence important for you to respect the culture of this place. This includes not only the monuments but also the people around.
  • One of the best ways to be responsible is to shop locally. Try to make your purchases from the local vendors. Not only will you be able to get your hands on the best quality products but something that has the touch of the artists themselves.


Air Quality and Pollution

Egypt is a busy country that is nestled amidst a desert climate. This means that this area's air quality stands at around 55 AQI, indicating moderate air quality. Pollution is somewhat high in this area and thus may be a cause of concern for many. The most prevalence of air pollution is because of the existence of particulate matter in the air. Like in most countries, the air has such suspended particulate matter because of development in industries, transportation, waste burning in the open, and more. This is not a country where you come to breathe fresh air as fresh air is truly not easy to find. While you may find some peace in the outskirts, air pollution is high for a city like Cairo and will take a toll on you.

When you are in Egypt, you must take the necessary precautions. Please make time to close doors and windows to keep the air in your room as clean as it is possible. When you want to enjoy the various outdoor activities that Egypt offers, you may consider wearing a mask. If you are sensitive to air pollution and have trouble breathing, Egypt may be difficult for you to visit. Be careful to wear a mask whenever you are outside.


Respect the Culture

Egypt was one of the first countries around the world to witness civilization in various forms such as agriculture, writing, religion, government, urbanization, and more. It has some of the most interesting fragments of history attached to its name, and the study of Egypt has been known as a separate discipline altogether. Not only does it have some of the marvelous monuments that date back to hundreds of years, but it also has some mysteries hidden in them that are yet to be unfolded. This country's cultural heritage is part of its identity and evokes interest in all those around the globe.

The most important thing or understand that Egypt has a middle eastern and Arabic culture has developed into film, literature, music, and more. There is an interesting religious angle to the country that accounts for Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. While the British colonization has had a significant effect on the glory and honor of the land, Egypt gained its freedom. Finally, it was able to start its own independent government. Egypt also has much to offer in its arthouse with paintings, monuments, music, architectural gems, and more.

When you come to Egypt, you need to understand the county's cultural heritage and show respect to it. There is no scope for cultural appropriation or racism here as it is demeaning and disrespectful. You can show pure interest in all things Egypt without being harmful. Come in close contact with the locals, and you will be able to find more about their local lives and even strike a conversation! Make sure to buy from the locals and bask in Egypt's glory while you are here.


Top 10 Places to Visit

Egypt is one of the most exciting places to visit, with amazing destinations filled with tombs and temples. Most people associate Egypt with historical monuments; Egypt has much more to offer than simply the pyramid. There is so much that you can do; you will not have a single moment to spare. This is the reason Egypt has become the perfect place for tourist attraction. Whether you are interested in history, culture, adventure, or simply want to relax, Egypt is the perfect destination for you. Here are the most exciting places to visit in Egypt:

  • Pyramids of Giza: There is absolutely no denying that the Pyramids of Giza, which has been included in one of the seven wonders of the world, is one of the most exciting elements of Egypt. It was built for the Pharaohs of Egypt and is guarded by the royal Sphinx. Not only is it one of the most popular attractions in Egypt that has also excited archaeologists and historians for ages to come. The pyramids are so mysterious that they have also been subjected to a number of conspiracy theories. If there is one place in Egypt that you must visit, it has to be the pyramids of Giza. While it is an archaeological marvel in itself, it is also a great destination for those interested in history as well as photography.
  • Islamic Cairo: The capital of Egypt is Cairo's mysterious city, which itself is a place of great glory. The impressive atmosphere of the land intermingled with the numerous mosques and madrasas will truly blow your mind. These are also of historical significance being built in the Fatimid into the Mameluke era. The city also has to offer one of the most popular and gorgeous shopping complexes, which are known as the Khan el Khalili which is truly a magnificent place filled with artisans and coppersmiths in their small workshops and stalls with their haul that includes spices, perfume, textile, ceramics and more. The sole roads and the structure are of monumental significance. Just the roads around this shopping complex have many architectural Marvels. Some of the most enticing mosques here include the Al-Azhar Mosque and the Sultan Hassan Mosque. The historic Bab Zuweila, whose roof you can climb to for the most scintillating view of the city below.
  • Valley of Kings and Luxor's Karnak Temple: The town of Luxor is situated in Upper Egypt by the side and is an important tourist attraction in Egypt. It has a number of places to visit and is known as the ancient power base of the New Kingdom Pharaohs. There are so many wonderful destinations here, including the Valley of Kings, Memorial Temple of Hatshepsut, and the Karnak Temple. A single day will not be enough to see it all. The east bank of the town has the most colorful souk, while the west bank of the town is home to a number of temples and tombs and one of the biggest open-air museums around the globe. There are some of the most spectacular wall arts presented here as well as some of the biggest temples and columns that you will ever be able to come across. This town has gathered the interest of archaeologists and historians all around the globe, and for a good reason.
  • Abu Simbel: While there are a number of temples and tombs all around Egypt, Abu Simbel still stands out as one of the country's best archaeological sites. Ramses II built this temple, and the entire premise is bejeweled with some of the biggest statues that stand as guards outside. While the exterior is adorned with some of the biggest statues, the inside comes with the most intricate wall paintings. The Abu Simbel is very well known for its megalithic proportions and the incredible feat where the entire temple was moved from one destination to another. This took place as the monument was about to disappear under the Aswan Dam's construction's watermakers. This mission was taken up by UNESCO in the year 1960 and took four years for completion.
  • Siwa Oasis: While the regular hustle and bustle of Egypt can become overwhelming, the Siwa Oasis is the perfect place for you to find some peace and quiet. This beautiful Oasis is surrounded by natural freshwater springs and a mammoth amount of date palm trees all around, making it one of the most tranquil destinations in Egypt. The town setting is around the ruins of a huge mud-brick citadel, which constitutes the view. This is the best place for You to relax and rewind. What is even more exciting is that the Oasis offers a number of adventures around the desert that will help you to Kickstart your adventurous side. This marvelous destination has the most scenic places to visit and will truly blow your mind away from the crowd of the Egyptian cities.
  • White Desert: While the first thing that comes to people's mind when it comes to Egypt are the pyramids, there are a number of natural wonders here that are simply breathtaking. one of the most surreal destinations and natural marvels is the white desert of Egypt. It constitutes odd-looking chalk mountains, making it look like a snowy atmosphere amidst the arid desert. The landscape here truly looks like something out of a fictional series and nothing you have ever seen before. You will find here Pinnacle that looks like icebergs and boulders that are bright white. If you have an adventurous side to your personality, this is the perfect place in the middle of the desert for you to unleash that side.
  • Thistlegorm Dive Site: Egypt is truly a mysterious place as there are places to visit, even underwater. Below the Red's surface, the sea remains one of Egypt's most mysterious locations that are as haunting and exciting as the tombs and temples that you will find on the road. While the coral reef here is actually a marvelous side of nature, you will also be able to find a number of shipwrecks of ships that have sunk in the Gulf of Aqaba and Gulf of Gubal of the Red sea. The most famous shipwreck here is an English World war II cargo ship which is known as Thistlegorm. It was bombed by the German soldiers in 1941 and has nestled in the Red sea since then. This is a Paradise for divers and has been known for the versatile plethora of wrecks here, including motorbikes, cars, and other titbits from World war II.
  • Citadel of Saladin: While many sites have been conferred as a World Heritage site by UNESCO, the citadel of Saladin is one of them. The citadel was built by a famous ruler of Saladin known as Ayyubid in order to protect the city from Fustat and Cairo. The entire fortification has a line of beautiful mosques and watchtowers, which will be a pleasure for your eyes. There is also the Well of Joseph that is extremely interesting and peak excitement for some historians. This place is located in Central Cairo, and you can enter it by paying a minimal entry fee. The citadel is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on a regular basis for tourists.
  • Aswan: Aswan is the most peaceful town in Egypt and is set along the Nile river curves. It has beautiful orange dunes, making it the perfect place for you to stop and relax for a few days. Uplifting, and the picturesque landscape will truly blow your mind. There are a number of activities that you can perform here. There is a river ferry that goes to Elephantine Island, where you will be able to walk across the streets of the beautiful and colorful Nubian villages. This is also an exciting place for you to ride on a camel back into the desert monastery on the Eastcity's Bank. There are also a number of riverboat restaurants where you can have tea and enjoy beautiful food. While Aswan is truly an amazing place in itself, there are several historical sites around the city for you to enjoy.
  • Alexandria: Alexandria is one of Egypt's most historically significant cities and has a European context. This city was founded by Alexander the Great and The great home of Cleopatra. This is a dazzling city that has an exciting lifestyle with a seaside view. While you will be able to come across a number of historical remnants of the city, there is also certain royalness to the air that will transform you immediately. You can spend a relaxing evening strolling the shores of Corniche, go souk shopping, visit historical remains, or simply sit back and enjoy at a cute cafe.
Pyramids in Giza


Explore

When you are in Egypt, you will simply have no time to spare. There are so much to do and so many places to go that you will have a rather packed schedule. However, if you want to take it slow and explore the country on your own, it will truly be an exhilarating experience for you. While there are a number of must-see sites in Egypt, you will realize that there are also certain corners and crevices of the country, which are as exhilarating as the big locations.


City Parks

If you want to spend some time outdoors when you visit Egypt, you will be happy to know that there are a number of city parks here that you can spend time in. These city parks are the perfect place for your children to spend some time, for some leisurely strolling, your morning exercise, and more. Some of the city parks are as follows:

  • Sheikh Zayed Park
  • Fostat city
  • Chill Out Park
  • The International Park
  • Family Park
  • Fun City


National Parks

When it comes to national parks in Egypt, you will find a plethora of these here. Here are some of the most exciting national parks in Egypt that you must visit:

  • Wadi El Gemal National Park: This national park is located near the Red Sea, around forty kilometers away from Marsa Alam. This park is spread over 700 square kilometers and gives you a unique opportunity to get a close look at a vast expanse of coral reefs. There is a wide variety of wildlife here to marvel at, and it gives a great peek into Egypt's cultural aspects.
  • Gebel Elba National Park: This national park is located on the southeastern side of Egypt and has been listed as one of Egypt's best national parks. The park is situated between the Elba mountain on one side and the Red sea mountain. It spans over a huge area and is home to one of the most diverse ecosystems of Egypt. There are some of the most iconic wild animals present here, including ibexes, eagles, falcons, and much more.
  • Wadi El Rayan National Park: This national park has the biggest waterfall in Egypt that flows outside Wadi El Rayan. There are numerous hot springs and Oasis here, where you will find a number of wild creatures. Some various plants and trees are of interest here.
  • Wadi El Hitan National Park: This is one of Egypt's most popular national parks, located in the Whale Valley national preserves. There are some fossils of whales found here that has made this region of great natural importance. This national park has been deemed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the year 2005.

While these are some of the most popular national parks in Egypt, you will also be able to find other such parks of natural importance, including Abu Galum Protected Area, Nabq Protected Area, Ras Mohammed National Park, and more.

Wadi El Gemal National Park


Beaches

Egypt is truly a country of vast geographical diversity. While there are vast arid deserts, there are also some wonderful beaches in this country. Whether you like to bask in the sun or like to spend some time in the water, these beaches will provide you with the perfect spot to chill. Here are some of the most popular beaches in Egypt:

  • Dahab Lagoon: While central Dahab does not feature a number of beaches, the Dahab Lagoon is one of the finest beaches you will find here. The Sinai Mountain Ranges form the backdrop to this curved beach, and it is filled with the most golden sand. It has Egypt's best scuba diving learning range and is also a great place for bag packers as well as families to rest and have fun.
  • Naama Bay: This is one of the most famous beaches in Egypt with white sand and sits at one of the most important beach resorts in the Sinai Peninsula. People from all over the world come here, especially those who have an interest in scuba diving. Because of the beautiful coral reefs under the sea, snorkeling is also a great activity here. There is also a reserved private section here with great facilities and lodging services.
  • Ras Um Sid Beach: This is the best beach that you will be able to find in the Sharm el-sheik area. It provides the perfect opportunity for you to enjoy the sun simply, or you can go snorkeling. The Ras Um Sid reef is of prime importance and has become one of the best and most interesting places for snorkelers.
  • Soma Bay: If you want to spend some exclusive time meddled in luxury and care, this is the perfect beach for you. This is an exclusive beach that has five resorts. You will be able to experience the most luxurious time of your life no matter which resort you choose. This is the perfect romantic getaway away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

While these are some of the most exciting and diverse beaches in Egypt, you will be able to find many more popular beaches as well. Whether you want to spend time on a public or private beach, Egypt has a versatile category for you to choose from. Some beaches include El Gouna, Nuweiba-Taba Coastline, Marsa Alam, Sahl Hasheesh, Taba, and many more.

The Canyon Lagoon in Dahab


Landmarks

There are exciting and interesting landmarks all around Egypt. While some of the most interesting locations of already was highlighted, here are some of the other important landmarks:

  • Kom Ombo: This is one of the most beautiful places in all of Egypt. You will find here the temple of Kom Ombo, which attracts a number of visitors all around The Year. There is also a crocodile museum here with a huge collection of mummified crocodiles for you to enjoy.
  • St. Catherine's Monastery: This is not only one of the oldest monasteries in Egypt with also on the globe. It is located at the base of Mount Sinai and is one of the most religious places as it is said that it is the spot where Moses had received the ten commandments. There are some of the most iconic religious art, manuscript, and iconography that you will ever find.
  • Abydos Temple: While the town of Abydos is not so exciting among tourists, this Temple here truly makes it a popular destination. This little Temple comprises some of the most important and artistic treasures of Egypt. The columns and the temple walls are covered by intricate paintings, detailed sites, and hieroglyphics.
  • Saqqara: Did you know that the Giza Pyramids are not the only pyramids in Egypt? There are also some pyramids that you will find in Saqqara, which is quite close to Cairo. Some important pyramids here include the bent pyramid, the Red pyramid, and the step pyramid.
Kom Ombo


Museums

The best known and detailed museums of Egypt are as follows:

  • The Mummification Museum: This museum is located in Luxor and shows visitors that ancient Egyptians used mummification as a preservation technique. This is a great place for you to understand the entire mummification process with an egyptologist's help.
  • Luxor Museum: This Museum is part of the Supreme Council of Antiquities and is situated along the Nile River. You will be able to find the mummified bodies of the two pharaohs as well as a number of items from Tutankhamun's tomb.
  • Cairo Museum: This has got to be one of the most stunning museums in all of Egypt. It has one of the most exquisite collections of antiques and a number of items that you will never be able to find elsewhere. This is definitely a museum that you must visit when in Egypt.

While these are a few of the must-visit museums in Egypt, there are many more to visit. Some of Egypt's other exciting museums are The Nubian Museum in Aswan, National Museum in Alexandria, Karnak Open Air Museum, Animalia, Royal Jewelry Museum, Musee de la Barque Solaire, and many more.

The Mummification Museum


Eat

It is a shame if you visit a country and don't try the various traditional foods here. Egypt is a place that has some of the most mouth-watering food here, which will blow your mind. The various traditional delicacies are such that you won't generally find out of Egypt. Even if you have had these fishes somewhere else, having them here is a totally different experience.

One such dish is the Fatteh, one of the most popular dishes of ancient Arab and enjoyed during Ramadan or other celebrations. It is basically made of flatbread that is stuffed with layers of meat, rice, and the state of vegetables to add texture and flavor. Another popular dish of Egypt is the Ta'ameya, which is a slight variant of Falafel. While Falafel is is a very popular middle eastern food, Egypt has its own variety, which uses fava beans instead of chickpeas. It also uses a number of spices and fresh herbs and is an extremely interesting meal in itself.

If you want to eat like the royals, the Ful Mudammas will take you back to ancient Egypt as it is one of the Pharaohs' favorite meals. This is a typical breakfast dish that you will find as street food in Egypt. It is a dish made with beans, eggs, and pita bread, and some dressing. If you are a seafood fan, Egypt has one of the most popular and exciting fish sayadiya that you must absolutely try. It is one of the most delicate preparations using a whole white fish seasoned with a number of spices before being Pan-fried. It is soft with an interesting sauce and is often plated with toasted almonds. Another very important Egyptian dish that you have to try when in Egypt is Kabab Wa Kofta. This is, of course, A meat-based dish and is generally made with lamb or beef. While it is a little spicy, it also has a Minty taste that is truly astounding.

If you are a fan of street food, Egypt has a huge variety of exciting new dishes that you must try. Of course, the most famous Egyptian street food is Full, which is even considered Egypt's national dish. Another interesting street food of Egypt is Fitter, which is necessarily an Egyptian pancake made with thin dough and can even be thought of as a pastry. Another very exciting dish that is almost like a Turkish lahmacun Pizza is called hawawshi. It is served on Egyptian bread and is absolutely delicious.


Drink

It is important to know what you can drink when you visit a country like Egypt. Tea is one of Egypt's most important trains. It has been known as the National drink of Egypt, but you will also find coffee as a part of its traditional drinks. This is a great opportunity for both tea lovers and coffee lovers to choose what they love.

World most countries around the world that are predominantly Muslim, alcohol is banned; this is not Egypt's case. Alcohol is actually quite readily available in Egypt. But during the month of Ramadan, alcohol is only served by western-style pubs, hotels, and restaurants. Egypt has quite a lot of nightlife that you will be able to enjoy.

Another very popular drink of Egypt has to be the Karkadeh, made with dried red hibiscus flower. The dried red hibiscus flower is boiled in water and put in the refrigerator. Then sugar is added to the drink. While this is generally served as a cold drink, you can also enjoy it hot as a herbal tea. It is extremely high in minerals and vitamin C. LIf you fancy fruit juice on a regular basis, and there are a number of stalls selling them all over the country.


Tap-water

It is not safe to drink tap water in Egypt. You will be able to find bottled water readily, and it is much safer to buy them for drinking.


Activities

If you like to plan a number of activities when you visit a foreign country, you will be happy to come to Egypt. While sightseeing is something that everyone does, there are some activities that will truly blow your mind when in Egypt. Snorkeling and scuba diving are among the most exciting things to do when in Egypt's various beaches because of the vast expanse of coral reefs here with the most stunning and colorful corals and marine life.

You can always go for a sand Safari, and there is also an opportunity for you to cruise the Nile River. If you are a history buff, you can lesson from the egyptologists in the various Egyptian Museums. If you are more adventurous, you can also Hike to the top of Mount Sinai. There Number of adventures when in Egypt they are simply waiting to be discovered.


Accommodation

Since Egypt is one of the most important countries in Egypt, it attracts people from all over the world due to its booming traveling industry. It is for this reason that you will be able to find a number of suitable accommodations here. There are all sorts of accommodations in Egypt, and whether you want to stay in luxury or are looking for something budget, there are a plethora of options and Egypt for all kinds of travelers.


Green Hotels

When visiting Egypt is important for you to look for the most eco-friendly hotels. It is a wonderful initiative for the education government to make the place more sustainable, truly admirable. When you try to live in Green hotels, you will be employing a number of Eco-Friendly means of stay, with the help of environmental consciousness policies and practices. There are some of the best Green Hotels in Egypt:

  • Ecolodge Bedouin Valley Camp and Diving Center: This place is located in Marsa Alam. Not only is this place close to nature, but you will be able to completely disconnect from the urbanity and get in touch with your true natural self here. This place has adopted a number of Eco-Friendly means and is right by the beach.
  • Four Seasons Cairo At The First Residence: Not only is this hotel situated next to one of the biggest green spaces in Egypt known as the Orman Botanical Garden, but it is also extremely ecologically conscious as it was one of the first hotels to install an electric car charging station in 2019. This hotel has been trying to make a number of environmentally sustainable policies.
  • Fanadir Hotel El Gouna: This hotel is one of the most exquisite locations along with the same and has an Arabic influence in its construction. While this is an adults-only hotel, it has made a number of shifts towards sustainability.

Some of the other exciting Green hotels in Egypt include Mosaique Hotel El Gouna, Hotel Novotel Cairo El Borg, Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezirah, Down Town Hotel Cairo, Mövenpick Resort & Spa El Gouna, and Taziry Ecolodge Siwa.


Hostels and Guest Houses

If you're looking for budget options to stay in Egypt, you will be happy to know that there are a number of hostels and guest houses that will cater to your needs. Some of the best hostels and guest houses in Egypt are as follows:

  • Pyramids Guest House
  • The Mango Guest House
  • Basmatic Nubian Guest House
  • Bob Marley Guesthouse
  • The View Guest House
  • Gardenia Pyramids View
  • Marina Square Hostel
  • Heritage Hostel Cairo
  • Agata Hostel
  • Comfort Pyramids inn
  • Cheers Hostel


Apartments

Living in an apartment is one of the most eco-friendly and affordable means when you come to Egypt and want to stay for a little longer. Some apartments that you will be able to find:

  • Mondy Pyramids View
  • Serenity Home Hurghada
  • Zafero Studios and Apartments - Families only
  • Al Asafra Dahab1
  • Skyrock Dahab
  • Luxor VIP Apartments
  • Villa Sunrise


Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is one of the most affordable ways for not only staying but also finding a friend in Egypt. You will be able to find Couchsurfing options at www.couchsurfing.com easily.


Camping

If you want to stay in close contact with nature, camping is one of the best ways to stay in Egypt. Not only is it extremely affordable but also very eco friendly. Some of the most important campsites in Egypt include:

  • SakraTah Camp - eco friendly
  • Bamba Camp
  • Sharm El Naga Resort and Diving Center
  • Rezeiky Hotel & Camp
  • Al Salam Camp
  • Badry Sahara Camp


Regions

There are primarily 7 distinct regions into which Egypt is divided. While the discussion was made in order to expand the seven regions into 11, it was never really done. The 7 regions of Egypt include:

A map of Egypt's regions and major destinations
Lower Egypt
containing the northern Nile delta, and the Mediterranean coast; Cairo, Alexandria
Middle Egypt
the area along the Nile where the historical Upper and Lower kingdoms met
Upper Egypt
a string of amazing temple towns located on the southern stretch of the Nile
Western Desert
location of the Western Oases: five pockets of green, each with their own unique attractions
Red Sea Coast
Luxury beach resorts, diving and marine life
Sinai
Rugged and isolated peninsula, with fascinating relics of the past, high mountains and great scuba diving


Cities

There is a total of about 41 to 42 cities in Egypt. Why not all of these cities are tourist attractions? There are a few that you simply cannot miss out on. Some of the most popular cities in Egypt are as follows:

  • (Greater) Cairo – the capital of Egypt, home to the Giza Pyramids, the Egyptian Museum and fabulous Islamic architecture.
Saint Virgin Mary's Coptic Orthodox Church also known as the Hanging Church (El Muallaqa), Cairo. It is one of the oldest churches in Egypt.
  • Alexandria – Egypt's window on the Mediterranean, with still-palpable glimpses of the past.
Sayed Darwish Theatre in Alexandria
  • Aswan – a more relaxed option, full of amazing sights.
Aswan
  • Hurghada – a town on the Red Sea, filled with all-inclusive resorts and diving.
A resort in Hurghada
  • Luxor – gateway to the Valley of the Kings, amongst other fabulous attractions.
Streets of Luxor
  • Port Said – Egypt's third city, has a cosmopolitan heritage, bordering the Mediterranean, home to the Lighthouse of Port Said.
Port Said
  • Sharm el Sheikh – a hugely popular resort town on the Sinai peninsula, with some of the best scuba diving adventurous in the world.
Bustling streets of Sharm el Sheikh at night


Getting There and Moving Around

Being a country of tourist interest, the transportations system is quite well governed in Egypt. When you need it, it is better for you to rely on public modes of transportation as it is better for the environment and help you save a lot of money.


Air

Over 12 airlines are flying to and from Egypt, and these are all placed at different price points. The number of airports in Egypt that you can simply fly into. Most of the cities that are of tourist interest have an airport, which makes it very easy to travel to Egypt by air. Some of the most important airports that are also the busiest include Borg El Arab Airport, Cairo International Airport, Hurghada International Airport, Marsa Alam International Airport, Luxor International Airport, Aswan International Airport, Alexandria International Airport, and more.

Cairo International Airport


Bus

Egypt has three main bus systems that are all based in Cairo. These include Upper Egypt Bus Company that operates in the Nile Valley, inner oases, Fayoum and the Red Sea Coast that leads to El-Quseir, West and Middle Delta Bus Company that operates in Mersa Matrouh, Alexandria, the Nile delta and Siwa and the East Delta Bus Company that operates in Sinai and the Canal Zone. There are also other Bus routes that are offered here and are independent. The most important bus routes are generally AC buses, while there are also others that are local routes and generally have non AC buses.

A bus in Cairo


Train

Railways are the most popular and luxurious ways to travel around the city. It will easily connect you between all the major cities, including Alexandria, Luxor, Cairo, Aswan, Suez, Port Said, and more. Not only are they the perfect way to hop around Egypt, but the view from the trains in themselves are brilliant.


Hitchhiking

You can always hitchhike your way around the country of Egypt. It is important for you to be aware of the roads and carry a map at all times.


Others

The ones mentioned above are the most common routes of travel in all of Egypt.


Sustainable Shopping

When you come to Egypt, you need to shop sustainably. It will give you the perfect opportunity to buy from the local vendors and support small businesses. There are also a number of eco-friendly and second-hand stores that you can truly depend on. Some of these thrift stores are as follows:

  • THE SPACE
  • ACE Charity Shop
  • Underground Store
  • Pink Elephant Dahab

There are also some flea markets where you can shop sustainably. These include:

  • Sayeda Aisha Market
  • France Market
  • Sharia as Souq Market
  • Khan el-Khalili
  • Aswan Old Souks


Recycling

Egypt has become one of those countries that have taken a number of sustainable and eco-friendly measures. Hence there are some formal as well as informal set up for recycling. However, while there are some recycling sites in the main cities, you will not find these in smaller cities.


Waste

Waste management has posed a serious problem for those who live in Egypt. While waste management was not taken seriously in the years, many initiatives were taken by the government and even by private organizations.


Work and Study Abroad

Egypt is one of the most important countries in the continent and has a number of employment opportunities that make it one of the most important countries. Besides, because of its overwhelming documentation in history, the number of students who come here to study.


Exchange Student

Egypt welcomes several exchange students every year from all over the country. Exchange students have the opportunity to live here and study.


Au Pair

Au pair services have become quite prompt in Egypt. As it is an excellent employment opportunity, many have resorted to providing this service.


Volunteering

There are quite a lot of volunteering opportunities in Egypt, which include:

  • 57357 Children’s Cancer Hospital
  • Injaz Egypt
  • Egyptian Food Bank
  • Egyptian Society For Mercy To Animals (ESMA)


See Also