Helpful Facts
Facts
| Name |
Arab Republic of Egypt |
| Area |
Around one million square km. |
| Population |
Estimated 75 million |
| People |
Arabs, Berbers, Nubian |
| Official language |
Arabic |
| Religion |
Islam, Christianity |
| Time |
GMT+2 (summertime) GMT+1 (wintertime) |
Visa
Visitors must obtain a tourist visa and have a passport validity for at least six months. The visa is available from Egyptian consulates abroad but also on arrival at Cairo, Luxor and Hurgharda airports. It is valid for one month and generally cheaper. We recommend to contact the embassy or consulate in your country, also visa issues may have changed.
Climate
In Egypt days are commonly warm or hot and nights are cool. Egypt has only two seasons: a mild winter from November to April and a hot summer from May to October. The best time to travel here is during the winter, between December and February, when temperatures range between 20 to 26°C.
Health
There are potential health risks in Egypt, but the most tourists suffer only from diarrhea. As a precaution eat cooked food and peeled fruits. Important is also to drink plenty of bottled water and to sit in the shade to avoid dehydration. Travelers should check that their inoculations are up-to-date. We recommend Typhoid, Hepatitis A and Polio vaccination.
Do not consume or bathe in the water of the Nile. There have been cases of bird flu and although the risk is low for travelers, close contact with birds should be avoided. Medical facilities outside of Cairo can be very basic. We advise to check the current health information before you travel.
Currency
Currency unit: Egyptian Pound (EGP) = 100 Piastres
Notes: 25, 50 piastres; 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 pounds
Coins: 5, 10, 20, 25, 50 piastres; 1 pound
Business Hours
Saturday to Wednesday: usually 8:30am to 2:00pm and 5:00pm to 8:00pm.
Banks: Sunday to Thursday 8:30am to 2:00pm.
Customs
Egypt is a conservative society, so respect local customs and dress modestly. Especially for women it is recommended to cover the upper arms and legs. During Ramadan eating, drinking and smoking during daylight hours should be discreet. It is prohibited to take photos of military institutions.
