Book cheap flights to Egypt

Egypt is best visited during spring (March-April) and autumn (October-November) when crowds have dispersed and temperatures are cooler. Peak tourist season runs during winter from November to February. The Nile Valley experiences lovely warm days and the Sinai Desert resorts see an influx of tourists. Summertime (May-September) brings searing temperatures and heatwaves to the central regions and many affluent locals migrate to the coastal resorts. Avoid Cairo during the summer with its high pollution levels and blistering sun. If you must go during this time, sightseeing is best done in the early morning and evening. Egypt is home to many exciting festivals and religious celebrations. The Abu Simbel Sun Festival (21 February and 21 October), paying homage to King Ramses II’s ascension to the throne, is a spectacle to witness. The Islamic holiday of Ramadan limits eating and transport arrangements during the daytime but, after sunset, festive evenings are a communal affair.

Egypt visa requirements for South African passport holders

Planning an Egyptian getaway? South African ordinary passport holders generally require a visa to visit Egypt. Depending on the rules applicable to your trip, options may include a visa on arrival, an e-visa or an application through the Egyptian Embassy.

Before booking your flights with Travelstart, confirm the appropriate visa option with the Egyptian Embassy and check your airline’s travel-document requirements. Ask about eligibility, any fee exemption, permitted length of stay and supporting documents. Do not assume that all visa application methods are free.

Egypt’s published e-visa guidance currently specifies a passport valid for at least six months from the date of arrival. Confirm the passport requirements for your itinerary, including any countries you transit through.

Where to check Egypt visa requirements

Contact the Egyptian Embassy in Pretoria for advice specific to your passport and purpose of travel:

• Address: 270 Bourke Street, Muckleneuk, Pretoria

• Telephone: +27 12 343 1590 / +27 12 343 1591

• Email: egyptembpa@gmail.com

Check the official embassy contact listing before visiting. For online visa information, use the official Egypt e-visa portal.

Consular assistance in Egypt

South Africans needing consular assistance can contact the South African Embassy in Cairo, at Building 11, Road 200/203, Degla Maadi, Cairo, on +20 2 2535 3000. Confirm current contact details through DIRCO’s official directory.

Travel information disclaimer: Visa, passport, entry and transit requirements may change without notice. This information is a general guide and does not guarantee visa approval, boarding or entry. Always confirm the latest requirements with the relevant embassy, consulate or immigration authority for every country you will visit or transit through, and with your airline before departure. Travellers are responsible for obtaining the correct documents. To the extent permitted by law, Travelstart cannot be held responsible for inaccuracies, changes to requirements, visa refusals, denied boarding or entry, or resulting costs.

In exercising basic safety precautions and vigilance you’ll find that Egypt is a very safe country. Foreigners are not targets of violent crime; if anything, you may be overcharged for taxi fares and souvenirs. Unfortunately, some cities in Egypt have been targeted in recent terror attacks, so it is advisable to keep abreast of current political affairs and warnings. Avoid walking through dimly-lit areas at night, although the tourist areas are perfectly safe at any time of the day or night. Women may find themselves subject to verbal harassment in public areas and should avoid walking around alone. In general, men and women should dress modestly and avoid showing too much skin. Be aware of wayward traffic when crossing the roads in Egypt. Hiring a car with a driver is advisable if you’re staying for a considerable amount of time and need to get around.

There are no mandatory vaccinations required to enter Egypt, although it is advisable to be immunised against hepatitis A and typhoid. If you are an adventurous eater, be wary of uncooked street food and fruit juice. Tap water is not potable so stick to bottled water at all times.

Use a good insect repellent to ward off pesky mosquitoes, especially if you are staying around the Nile region. Be aware that medical facilities in Egypt are not always up to standard so it is recommended to bring along a medical kit with basic supplies. A comprehensive travel-insurance policy to cover theft and medical expenses is always recommended.

Find accommodation in Egypt to suit your trip, from budget-friendly guesthouses and self-catering apartments to city hotels, boutique stays and beachfront resorts. Whether you’re planning a cultural holiday, a family getaway or a romantic escape, compare locations, facilities and rates to find your ideal stay.

Consider Cairo or Giza for exploring the pyramids and city attractions, Luxor or Aswan for ancient sites and Nile scenery, or Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh for a Red Sea break. Check distances to your planned activities, airport transfer options, meal inclusions and cancellation terms before booking. Compare accommodation on Travelstart and book an Egypt stay that fits your plans and budget.

Getting Around Egypt

Getting around Egypt can involve domestic flights, trains, coaches, taxis and private transfers, depending on your itinerary. Plan journeys alongside your accommodation, especially when combining Cairo, the Nile Valley and the Red Sea.

Domestic flights can save time on longer journeys, while trains and coaches offer alternatives between selected destinations. Compare schedules, journey times, baggage allowances and booking requirements before choosing your transport.

Within Cairo, the Metro is useful for some journeys, while taxis and pre-booked transfers offer more direct trips. For airport arrivals, confirm your pick-up location, fare and luggage capacity in advance, and allow extra time for traffic.

Prefer more flexibility? Compare car rental availability with Travelstart for your pick-up location and dates. Check insurance, deposits, mileage limits and driving-document requirements before booking. A private driver or organised excursion is another option for sightseeing days.

For a slower-paced experience, consider a Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan. Check the itinerary and inclusions carefully, as excursions, transfers and entrance fees vary between bookings.