Egypt
North Africa • EGY
Last updated: October 15, 2026
Egypt is a land of ancient wonders and rich history, offering travelers a chance to explore iconic monuments, bustling markets, and the majestic Nile River. It provides a unique blend of archaeological treasures and vibrant modern culture.
Visa Requirements
Most tourists need a visa to enter Egypt, which can be obtained upon arrival at major airports for a fee or via the e-visa portal prior to travel.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport with at least six months of remaining validity
- Completed visa application form
- Proof of accommodation
- Confirmed return or onward flight ticket
- Visa fee in cash or proof of online payment
Popular Attractions
The Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx are the last remaining wonder of the ancient world, offering an awe-inspiring look at pharaonic engineering.
The Valley of the Kings in Luxor contains the elaborate tombs of famous pharaohs, including the legendary tomb of Tutankhamun.
The Temple of Karnak is a vast open-air museum complex representing the greatest religious complex ever built by man.
Abu Simbel features two massive rock temples carved into a mountainside, relocated in their entirety to prevent flooding from the Nile.
The Egyptian Museum in Cairo houses the world's most extensive collection of ancient Egyptian antiquities, including the golden treasures of Tutankhamun.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Dress modestly in public, especially when visiting religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered for both men and women.
Always use your right hand when eating or shaking hands, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean.
Tipping, or 'baksheesh', is a standard part of daily life for most services; keep small denominations of local currency handy.
Public displays of affection should be avoided as they are culturally frowned upon and may cause offense.
Accept hospitality, such as an offer of tea, as it is a significant gesture of welcome and friendship in Egyptian culture.
Safety Tips
Drink only bottled or filtered water, and avoid ice cubes in drinks to prevent stomach ailments.
Be cautious when crossing streets, as traffic is fast-paced and local driving habits can be unpredictable.
Only use official taxis or reputable ride-sharing apps, and agree on the fare before starting your journey.
Stay aware of your surroundings in crowded tourist areas to prevent pickpocketing and persistent street vendors.
Respect local laws and avoid taking photographs of military installations or government buildings, as this is strictly prohibited.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Meningococcal
Source: CDC
Recommended for certain activities.
View sourcePolio
Source: CDC
Proof of vaccination may be required.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Proof of vaccination is required for travelers arriving from countries with risk of YF transmission.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
No yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers arriving from countries without risk of yellow fever transmission.
View sourcePolio
Source: CDC
In Egypt, poliovirus has been identified in the past year. Travelers to Egypt are at increased risk of exposure to poliovirus if: 1) they work in health care settings involving direct patient contact, 2) assist in refugee camps or other humanitarian aid settings, OR 3) have limited access to clean drinking water and sanitation.
View sourceMeasles
Source: CDC
All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Egypt. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Egypt.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Egypt. Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date, including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella, polio, and your yearly flu shot.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Varicella, Polio, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to provide general immunity.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
To reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
Use insect repellent and wear long sleeves.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Practice safe food and water consumption to prevent illness.
Avoid street food and drink bottled water.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may eat or drink outside major restaurants and hotels.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before traveling.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers due to potential exposure through food or water.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination is recommended for all travelers.
View sourceMalaria prophylaxis
Source: CDC
Consider the risk of malaria in rural areas; prophylaxis may be necessary.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines.
Please see Your COVID-19 Vaccination for more information.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Insect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Prevent insect bites to avoid diseases spread by mosquitoes or other insects.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and stay in places with air conditioning or window/door screens.
View sourceFood and Water Safety
Source: CDC
To prevent gastrointestinal illness, consume only safe food and beverages. Drink bottled water or treated water and avoid raw or undercooked foods.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider if you might have exposure to blood or bodily fluids, or if you'll be staying long-term.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To prevent gastrointestinal illness; drink bottled water and eat thoroughly cooked food.
View sourceFood and water safety measures
Source: CDC
To prevent illnesses caused by contaminated food and water.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Stay protected against emerging COVID-19 variants.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, and stay in climate-controlled lodging.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure all vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to risk through contaminated food or water.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
COVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Strongly encouraged for all travelers to ensure protection against COVID-19 during travel.
View sourceMeningococcal
Source: CDC
Consider if you will have close contact with local populations, particularly if crowded.
View sourceMeningococcal vaccine
Source: CDC
Consider vaccination if visiting densely populated areas or during the Hajj season.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Due to the presence of insects that can transmit diseases, precautions should be taken.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers involved in outdoor activities or working with animals.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider if you might have sexual contact with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or undergo medical procedures.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Important to prevent gastrointestinal illnesses while traveling.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
Recommended to avoid diseases like malaria and dengue fever transmitted by insect bites.
View sourceRisk Area: Entire country
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View source