OVERVIEW

Millions of Travellers every year have marvelled at Egypt's archaeological wonders for centuries. Pyramids, temples, mosques and great monuments of the Nile Valley, as well as the stunning diving resorts of the Red Sea. From the pyramids of Giza to the astonishingly beautiful temples of Karnak or Philae, or the painted tombs in the Valley of the Kings, can still be visited today. The sheer age of this great civilisation is mind-blowing. The life-giving Nile pours across the country, Whether on a cruise ship or traditional felucca, life on the water is a constant visual feast. When To Go Everywhere south of Cairo is very hot in the summer months (June-August), especially Luxor and Aswan where daytime temperatures soar up to 40°C or (104°F). Visiting Luxor, winter is easily the most comfortable time. Cairo isn't quite as pleasant. while up on the Mediterranean coast Alexandria is subject to frequent downpours resulting in flooded, muddy streets. March to May or September to November is the best time to enjoy the warm days without specially on the beaches. Be careful of Egypt's religious and state holidays while planning your tour as they should not disrupt the travel plans. Buses, though, may be fully booked around the two eids (Islamic feasts) and on Sham an-Nessim. Throughout Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting, many cafes and restaurants are closed during the day, while bars cease business completely for the duration. Offices also operate at reduced and very erratic hours.

Fast Facts

Full Name Arab Republic of Egypt Capital City Cairo Airports Cairo International Airport, Hurghada Airport, Sharm el Sheikh Airport Area 1,001,449 sq km 386,659 sq miles Population 69,500,000 Time Zone GMT/UTC +2 () Daylight Saving Start last Friday in April Daylight Saving End last Thursday in September Languages Arabic (official) Religion 94% Muslim, 6% Christian Currency Egyptian Pound (£E) Electricity 220V 50HzHz Electric Plug Details European plug with two circular metal pins Country Dialing Code 20