How to prepare your trip to Egypt?
For a long time, Egypt has been a country that fascinates, enchants, and intrigues through its history. A country rich in history, Egypt makes many dream, with its pharaohs, its pyramids, its mythical gods, and the fascinating stories that constitute Egyptian mythology. It offers its visitors the opportunity to experience unforgettable moments shared between discoveries and adventures. Egypt is also an exceptional environment and sites that allow you to relive history in every detail.
Practical arrangements to make
When I decided to travel to Egypt, I made sure to gather all the information related to how to prepare for a visa to Egypt,. This includes information about transportation, accommodation on site, and the safety of certain neighborhoods. In short, everything I needed to start my adventure.
Obtaining the visa
My research revealed that regardless of the nature of a stay, entry into Egypt requires obtaining a visa. For example, if it’s a tourist visa, it is valid for 3 months. In my case, I’m planning to spend three weeks. So, I opted for an e-visa Egypt to benefit from a faster process. If you prefer, for example, a tourist visa for Egypt, you will have the choice between a single entry and a multiple entry. I also planned a travel itinerary that mentions the scheduled flights and the accommodations reserved in Egypt. This was especially in case this document was required at the airport.
When did I leave for Egypt?
The Egyptian climate is somewhat diverse depending on where you are. For example, in the south, the climate is quite dry with temperatures reaching 50 °C in the summer. In contrast, the north benefits from a Mediterranean climate. Even though it’s possible to travel to Egypt all year round, I preferred the month of November for my visit. The weather is, in fact, milder in the south. However, to visit the North, prefer the warm season, between May and October. With my visa and the exact determination of the ideal time for the trip, I began preparations.
Finding accommodation in Egypt
Before obtaining my Egyptian visa, I struggled to choose a lodging solution. My options seemed a bit limited in my opinion. Because I had to decide between hotels and hostels. As I wanted to have a very immersive stay, meaning being in contact with the reality and culture of Egypt, I thought of doing a stay with a local family. For me, it was an opportunity to experience the renowned Egyptian hospitality, which is known to be very warm. Unfortunately, this option is not very common in the country. I had to settle for the most classic and practical solution, the hotel.
Local transportation
Whatever Egyptian city you are visiting, several means of transportation are available to tourists. Shared taxis and buses seem somewhat adequate to allow me to move from one city to another. I initially decided to rent a car but quickly abandoned this idea upon discovering that the traffic laws are not strictly followed in Egypt. I eventually leaned towards the bus.
As for urban transport, my choice quickly fell on meter taxis, which are safer and, above all, more punctual. In case of absolute necessity, I could always take the subway.
What to do in Egypt ?
Once the practical arrangements are made and the formalities related to obtaining the Egyptian visa are underway, it’s time to think about how to occupy my days there. Traveling to Egypt is an opportunity to engage in many activities that enhance the charm of the country. The country is full of unique tourist sites worth visiting. Here is what I have planned.
Traveling to Egypt is an opportunity to delve into history and discover mythical places, sites, and remnants of the past. I plan to spend the first three days of my stay exploring the famous pyramids of Giza, climbing the Cairo Tower for a panoramic view of the city and the Nile. It would be unthinkable to go to Egypt without visiting the Egyptian Museum or Salah El Din Citadel to learn a bit of history.
On the fourth day, I plan to take the bus to Alexandria where I intend to spend a few days visiting the Qaitbay Citadel, Saint Mark’s Church, and the Roman Theater. I will then take a dip in the Mediterranean and finish my visit with a tour of the famous Library of Alexandria.
I also plan to visit the Temple of Amun, Kamak, or even take an excursion to the Valley of the Kings. From Luxor, I will head to the seaside resort of Hurghada, where I can end my stay on a high note before returning home.
What to do in Egypt
There are at least twenty good activities to do in Egypt. Besides visiting historical sites, I also plan to :
- Visit the Siwa Oasis,
- Go diving with turtles and dolphins in Marsa Alam,
- Take a jeep safari in Sharm El Sheikh,
- Go hot air ballooning in Luxor
Since I’m going alone for a 15-day stay, I plan on an average budget of 1200 euros. However, I will set aside a margin of a few hundred euros for unexpected expenses.
