Current Local Time in Cairo
Current Weather in Cairo
Country Information
Major Governorates & Cities
Egypt is divided into 27 governorates.
Must-Visit Landmarks
Great Pyramids of Giza
The last surviving wonder of the ancient world, built around 2560 BCE.
Luxor Temple
Ancient Egyptian temple complex built around 1400 BCE.
Abu Simbel
Twin temples carved into mountainside during Ramses II reign.
Karnak Temple
Vast temple complex with the famous Hypostyle Hall.
Egyptian Museum
Home to the world's most extensive collection of pharaonic antiquities.
Nile River Cruise
Experience ancient temples and modern Egypt from the legendary Nile.
Brief History of Egypt
Predynastic Period
Early settlements along the Nile Valley develop into small kingdoms.
Unification of Egypt
King Menes unites Upper and Lower Egypt, beginning the dynastic period.
Old Kingdom
Age of pyramid builders (Great Pyramid built under Khufu).
Middle Kingdom
Period of reunification and classical literature.
New Kingdom
Egyptian Empire at its height (Tutankhamun, Ramses II).
Alexander the Great
Conquers Egypt, founds Alexandria.
Roman Egypt
Cleopatra VII dies, Egypt becomes Roman province.
Arab Conquest
Muslim Arabs conquer Egypt, introduce Islam.
Ottoman Rule
Egypt becomes Ottoman province.
French Occupation
Napoleon's campaign in Egypt, Rosetta Stone discovered.
Suez Canal Opens
Connects Mediterranean to Red Sea, transforms global trade.
Independence
Egypt gains independence from Britain.
Egyptian Revolution
Monarchy overthrown, republic established.
Arab Spring
Hosni Mubarak resigns after mass protests.
Travel Tips for Visitors
Visa Requirements
eVisa available for many nationalities. Visa on arrival for some. Passport must be valid for 6 months.
Currency & Payments
Egyptian Pound (EGP). ATMs widely available. Credit cards accepted in cities. Bargaining expected in markets.
Transportation
Domestic flights between cities. Nile cruises popular. Metro in Cairo. Taxis and ride-hailing apps available.
Cultural Etiquette
Dress modestly, especially at religious sites. Remove shoes when entering homes. Use right hand for eating/giving.
Best Times to Visit
Egyptian Cuisine
Try koshari (national dish), ful medames, ta'meya (falafel), molokhia, konafa, hibiscus tea.
Famous Events
Eid al-Fitr, Coptic Christmas (Jan 7), Abu Simbel Sun Festival (Feb & Oct), Cairo International Film Festival.
Health Precautions
Drink bottled water. Beware of food hygiene. Sun protection essential. Travel insurance recommended.
Technology
Good 4G coverage in cities. Most Western apps work. SIM cards easily available at airport.
Religious Considerations
Friday is holy day. Alcohol available but limited. Ramadan affects business hours.
Shopping Tips
Khan el-Khalili bazaar for souvenirs. Papyrus, alabaster, spices, gold jewelry popular. Bargain hard in markets.
For Women Travelers
Dress modestly to avoid attention. Solo travel possible but expect stares. Women-only metro cars in Cairo.