Egypt
North Africa • EGY
Last updated: September 15, 2026
Egypt is a captivating destination that bridges ancient history with vibrant modern culture. Visitors can explore world-renowned archaeological sites, cruise the legendary Nile River, and experience the unique hospitality of North Africa.
Visa Requirements
Most tourists require a visa to enter Egypt, which can be obtained upon arrival at major airports or via an e-visa system before travel.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport with at least six months of validity
- Completed visa application form
- Proof of accommodation
- Return or onward travel ticket
- Visa processing fee in cash
Popular Attractions
The Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx are iconic landmarks representing the pinnacle of ancient Egyptian engineering.
The Valley of the Kings in Luxor offers an unparalleled look into royal burial chambers decorated with vibrant hieroglyphics.
The Egyptian Museum in Cairo houses an extensive collection of ancient artifacts, including the legendary treasures of Tutankhamun.
A cruise along the Nile River provides a relaxing way to view historic temples and traditional life along the riverbanks.
The resort city of Sharm El Sheikh serves as a world-class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling in the Red Sea.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees, especially when visiting mosques or rural areas.
Always use your right hand for eating, shaking hands, and passing items, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean.
Ask for permission before taking photographs of local people to show respect for their privacy.
Expect to bargain when shopping in local bazaars and markets, as it is a standard part of the Egyptian shopping experience.
Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon and should be avoided to respect local cultural norms.
Safety Tips
Stick to well-traveled tourist routes and avoid traveling to remote areas in the Sinai Peninsula or near the Libyan border.
Stay hydrated and protected from the sun by drinking bottled water and wearing sunscreen during outdoor excursions.
Only use registered taxis or trusted ride-sharing apps to ensure reliable and safe transportation.
Keep your passport and important travel documents in a secure place, such as a hotel safe.
Be aware of your surroundings in crowded tourist spots to prevent petty theft or pickpocketing.
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 yellow fever 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
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
Necessary to prevent illness while traveling in Egypt.
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
Prevent diseases spread by mosquitoes and other insects.
Use repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and use bed nets if necessary.
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.
Typhoid can be contracted through contaminated food or water.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Egypt, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
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
Recommended for travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for animal bites.
Also recommended for people working with or around animals.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have a medical procedure.
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