Essential information for Egypt

When to go

Egypt boasts a hot desert climate. The warmest season is from May to October, while the milder season sets in from November to April. August can be sweltering in the cities, but many of the coastal areas tend to be slightly cooler, making cheap Egypt holidays a big hit all year round

The north coast on the Mediterranean is more prone to rainfall during the cooler months, although rainfall is generally rare in Egypt. Average annual temperatures range from a maximum of 37°C to a minimum of 14°C in the coastal regions. Desert temperatures are more variant and can drop to 0°C in the winter season.

Health and safety

The hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for all visitors to Egypt as it can be easily transmitted through food and water. With this in mind, ensure that you drink bottled water. Check with your GP eight weeks in advance about any other suggested vaccinations or precautions needed.

As with any holiday, you should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover yourself and family on your trip. If you’re visiting Egypt specifically to take part in sports or watersports, including hiking, you should make sure your insurance covers this. See our holiday extras page for more information and for the latest health and safety information visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/egypt/health

Passports and Visas

British citizens will need a visa to enter Egypt for visits of up to 30 days. It’s £20 for a single adult visa, which can be obtained at the airport when you arrive. However, if you’re a British national travelling to Sharm el Sheikh for up to 14 days, you will not require a visa.

You will need a passport valid for at least six months from the day of travel. By law, you must carry your passport with you and may need to show it when paying by credit card. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/egypt/entry-requirements

Getting around

Egypt is a large area to navigate if you’re travelling around, however transport in Egypt is generally accessible and convenient, and hotels will help with escorted excursions. In resort areas there are buses, and larger cities also offer metered taxis. Group taxi shares are available for slightly longer journeys, which can be cheap but ensure you confirm a price in advance.

Coaches are an effective way to travel longer distances, and there’s a railway that links the Nile Valley, Delta and Canal Zone, while EgyptAir provides a selection of domestic flights. Travelling by hire car through the country can be a chaotic experience and drivers need to be over 25 years old. Travelling by bike is not recommended, only in Luxor where there are places to hire bicycles.

Advice for travellers with children

Children are warmly welcomed in Egypt. One of the best places to visit with children is the Sharm el Sheikh area, as it has a selection of resorts large and small, that are well set up for British tourists. Alongside waterparks and snorkelling opportunities, the Red Sea Coast also comes with historic sites. To take the stress out of travel, you can always book All Inclusive Egypt holidays.

It’s best to ask your hotel for advice about the safest swimming locations. Many regions around the Red Sea offer warm, shallow swimming spots, while other areas have stronger currents and deeper water that may be best avoided.

Electricity

Connector type: Two-pin plug, type C or F.

Voltage Info: 220 to 240 volts AC

Emergency information

If you’re in Egypt and urgently require help – for example, if you’ve been attacked, arrested or lost your passport – call + 2 (02) 2791 6000.

British Consulate

If you’re a victim of crime, affected by a crisis overseas, or if something happens to a relative or partner contact the British Consulate in Alexandria.

Address: 3 Mina Street, Kafr Abdou, Roushdi, Ramley Alexandria, 21529

Email: britconsul@dataxprs.com.eg

Phone: +20 (0)2 27916000

Phone (from the UK): 020 7008 1500

Hospital

You are advised to seek medical advise in Egypt’s capital city Cairo if possible, otherwise opt for another major city as facilities in smaller areas can be basic.

Address: As-Salam International Hospital, Corniche El Nile, Maadi, Cairo

Phone: + 2 (0) 2 25240250