Why Travel to Egypt

Explore Egypt, where ancient wonders meet modern adventure. From the towering pyramids of Giza to the serene beauty of the Nile River, Egypt offers a journey through time like no other. It’s no wonder that travel to Egypt is on every South African traveller’s bucket list – this is the ultimate destination for history lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts.

When you visit Egypt, you’ll see incredible architecture that stand proudly along the Nile, making the country feel like the world’s largest open-air museum. Start your journey in Cairo, home to the Egyptian Museum and the Giza Necropolis – where you can visit the Pyramids of Giza and meet the legendary Sphinx. Then head to Luxor, often called the world’s greatest outdoor museum, to explore the Valley of the Kings and the impressive Karnak Temple.

Many Egypt holiday packages include a Nile River cruise, a highlight of any visit. Picture yourself gliding along the river aboard a five-star floating hotel, stopping to explore ancient temples like Kom Ombo and Philae in Aswan, where you can also see the Unfinished Obelisk. From there, a visit to the magnificent temples of Abu Simbel is a must – one of the most striking monuments built by Ramses II.

Top Places to Visit in Egypt:

The Grand Egyptian Museum, soon to be the largest archaeological museum in the world.
Giza Necropolis, home to the Great Pyramids and Sphinx.
The Valley of the Kings, the burial site of Pharaohs including Tutankhamun.
Aswan, a tranquil riverside town rich in Nubian culture.
Abu Simbel, an incredible feat of ancient engineering.
The White Desert, with its surreal chalk formations.
South Sinai, where the Red Sea meets golden beaches – ideal for Egypt beach holidays.

Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a family holiday, or simply want to relax on deck during a Nile River cruise in Egypt, Thompsons offers Egypt all-inclusive holidays that take care of every detail – from flights and accommodation to guided tours and meals.

Things to do in Egypt

There’s no shortage of things to do in Egypt – the country is packed with history, culture, and adventure around every corner.

Visit the Pyramids of Giza: No trip to Egypt is complete without seeing these incredible structures that have stood for over 4,000 years.
Explore Cairo: Wander through Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, savour authentic Egyptian street food, and visit the Egyptian Museum for a glimpse of ancient treasures.
Sail the Nile: Experience the timeless beauty of the river that shaped civilisation. A Nile cruise experience in Egypt includes stops at Luxor, Edfu, and Aswan.
Dive into the Red Sea: For those craving a splash of adventure, Egypt beach holidays in Sharm El-Sheikh or Hurghada offer world-class snorkelling and diving.
Discover Luxor and Aswan: From the colossal statues at Memnon to the romantic Philae Temple, these cities showcase the soul of ancient Egypt.
Experience the desert: Take a safari across the Sahara or camp under the stars in the White Desert.
Relax by the sea: South Sinai’s turquoise waters and coral reefs make it a paradise for beach lovers.

Whether you’re exploring ancient tombs or relaxing on a sun-soaked beach, Egypt is a destination that truly has it all.

Know before you go...

When is the Best Time to Visit Egypt?

The best time to visit Egypt is from October to April, when the weather is cooler and ideal for sightseeing.

How to get to Egypt and Get Around

Direct and connecting flights from Johannesburg to Cairo are available. Getting around is easy – domestic flights connect major cities, while taxis and private transfers are available for shorter trips.

Do South Africans Need a Visa for Egypt?

Yes, South African passport holders require an e-visa for Egypt. Your Thompsons consultant will advise you on all requirements before you travel.

Egypt Time Zone

Egypt is one hour ahead of South Africa.

Money

The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, but cash is handy for local markets.

Tipping—locally known as baksheesh—is expected in most service interactions, and it's more than just a reward for good service; it's a vital part of many workers' income.

Restaurants & Cafés:

Even if a 10–14% service charge is added, it often doesn’t go to staff.
Tip an extra 5–10% in cash directly to the server.

Language

Arabic is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.

Culture and Religion

Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, and modest dress is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites.

Health Information

There are no mandatory vaccinations, but routine travel vaccines are recommended – always be sure to consult a healthcare provider.

Always carry sunscreen and stay hydrated – the desert sun is strong!

Egypt Travel FAQs

What is the best Egypt itinerary for first-time visitors?
A classic Egypt itinerary includes Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and a Nile River cruise – all available in our Egypt holiday packages.

When is the best time to visit Egypt?
For sightseeing, October to April offers the most comfortable temperatures.

What’s Egypt’s weather like by month?
Summers (May–August) are hot, especially in southern Egypt, while winters (November–March) are mild and ideal for exploring.

What are Egypt’s travel seasons?
Peak season: October to April
Shoulder season: May and September
Low season: June to August

Is Egypt safe for tourists?
Yes, Egypt is generally safe for tourists. Tourist areas are well-secured, and the Egyptian tourism sector is focused on ensuring visitors feel comfortable and cared for.

Do I need travel vaccinations?
Routine vaccines are recommended. Check with your healthcare provider for advice before travelling.

How much does a trip to Egypt cost?
Egypt all-inclusive holidays vary depending on season and itinerary, but Thompsons offers excellent value packages including flights, accommodation, and tours.

How do I get around Egypt?
Domestic flights, private transfers, trains, and Nile cruises are popular and convenient ways to explore the country.

Plan Your Egypt Holiday with Thompsons

Ready to start planning a trip to Egypt? Thompsons takes care of every detail so you can focus on the adventure. Book your Egypt holiday package today with Thompsons – your trusted travel partner for extraordinary adventures.

What to Pack for a Trip to Egypt?

Lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime sightseeing
A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for protection from the sun
A scarf or shawl for religious sites
Comfortable walking shoes
Swimwear if you’re planning an Egypt beach holiday
A light jacket for cooler evenings during winter months

Responsible Travel

Respect local customs and dress modestly in conservative areas.
Avoid touching or defacing ancient sites.
Support local artisans by purchasing souvenirs directly from markets.
Conserve water and plastic use, especially along the Nile.

Did you Know?

Egypt will host one of the longest total solar eclipses of the 21st century on 2 August 2027, known as the “Great North African Eclipse.” Totality will last up to 6 minutes and 23 seconds in some locations, making it a must-see event for sky watchers.

Best Viewing Spots:

Luxor: Prime location for long totality, with the chance to watch the eclipse against ancient temples.
Aswan: Along the Nile, offering several minutes of full darkness.
Hurghada & Marsa Alam: Red Sea resorts with excellent viewing conditions.
Siwa Oasis: A peaceful desert retreat ideal for eclipse chasers.

Tip: Cairo will only experience a partial eclipse, so head to the path of totality for the full spectacle. Contact Thompsons to explore our special packages, combining this rare celestial event with visits to Egypt’s iconic monuments.