Egypt

76.8 million (UN, 2008)

Cairo

Brace yourself, Cairo is a melting pot of sights, smells and sounds! This exhilarating city is the largest in Africa and boasts some of the best sightseeing in the world. The Pyramids and Giza out to the west provide Cairo’s backdrop and the Egyptian Museum is the city’s treasure trove which is full to the brim! The hustle and bustle atmosphere has to be seen to be believed and we can guarantee that, in spite of the noise and seeming chaos, you will be captivated.

Nile Cruise

No visit to Egypt would be complete without a Nile Cruise and we have selected the very best for you. Climb aboard M/S Shehrayar and take in all the sights that you have read about. Highlights include: the Temple at Karnak, the huge complex of sanctuaries and obelisks, dedicated to the Pharaohs, the Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Aswan’s High Dam and the Temples of Horus and Hatshepsut.

Luxor

Luxor is the starting point for many Nile Cruises and the fascinating world-renowned sights in this area. The Nile Steamers started their trips in the 19th Century and this tradition of sightseeing continues, but now on more refined water transportation. Without taking to the water though you can explore the Luxor Temple and the Karnak Temple. And why not mooch amongst the locals, retain your sense of humour and enjoy the hustle and bustle!

5 hours London Heathrow to Cairo (Time Difference: GMT + 2)

Egypt generally enjoys warm winters but temperatures can fall in the evenings. Spring and summer daytime temperatures, especially in Luxor and Aswan, can be high and we therefore arrange most sightseeing in the early morning, in order to avoid the midday heat. Average daily temperatures in Cairo are 18-29 degrees C.

Egypt has been a republic since 18 June 1953 and is a multi-party semi-presidential state. President Mohamed Hosni Mubarak has been in power since 1981 and is currently serving his 5th term in office; his strongest challenger is the Muslim Brotherhood which is tolerated but officially banned

Casual dress is generally worn throughout Egypt. Lightweight clothing is recommended. Sunglasses, sun hats, and sun block lotion are recommended year round. Comfortable walking shoes/sports trainers are advisable when sightseeing. Egyptian society is conservative and women should dress modestly, especially when visiting traditional areas like mosques and souqs (markets). Women's clothes should cover their legs and upper arms.