With its written history spanning some five millennia, it is difficult to grasp the breadth and richness of Egypt's past.

It encompasses the very origins of civilisation, the Ancient Egyptians, the rise of the Greeks and Romans, the establishment of the Jewish, Christian and Islamic religions, the colonial era when first France and then Britain ruled the country and finally the return to independence.

In today's Egypt, one can find monuments that bear witness to all these historical epochs, not only the glories of the Ancient Egyptian civilization, but also Biblical sites and many marvels of Islamic Architecture.

Weather
As most of Egypt lies inside the Sahara, it has one of the world’s sunniest environments throughout the year. Cairo averages 11 hours of sunshine a day in the peak summer. The finest time to travel is in winter from October to April as it is cool and dry with average temperatures of 18ºC. The summer time (May to September) average temperature is 32ºC, more during the hot months of July and August which it is best to avoid.

Local Customs
Egypt is a Muslim country and you should dress with respect for local customs. Brief shorts/skirts should be avoided in towns and ladies should cover their heads when entering a mosque. One the Red Sea coast or cruising along the Nile you can wear whatever you like. Consult your travel clinic for the latest advice on different prophylaxis available against Malaria.

Visas
You can obtain an Egyptian visa on arrival at your airport of entry. The fee for a single entry tourist visa is currently £15 for British passport holders. Most other nationalities also require a visa.

Vaccinations
Nothing compulsory, but we recommend protection against Malaria, Tetanus, Typhoid, infectious Hepatitis and Polio. Malaria in Egypt only exists in the desert oasis regions, for example Siwa Oasis. It is your responsibility to check all relevant recommendations and also to get the most up-to-date health information for the destinations being visited. You can contact your GP or any of the following organisations:

MASTA: Telephone: 0906 822 4100 www.masta.org
Live Travel Health Line: 09068 633414
www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk

Flight Duration
Flight time to Egypt from London is 5hrs, with British Airways or Egypt Air.

Accommodation and Transport
The accommodation for our selection of Egypt tours is good quality, centrally located 4 star and some 3 star hotels. We use a variety of accommodation on our tours, and where possible with some local character.

A variety of transportation will be used on tour: cars, 4 wheel drive vehicles, minibuses or coaches, depending on the size of the party.