EGYPT - THE LAND OF CIVILIZATION

Mystery and intrigue have pervaded Egypt's tumultuous history for centuries. Witness for yourself the majestic legacies of ancient Pharaohs: the pyramids, the Sphinx, Cairo, and Luxor. The Nile River still serves as the backbone of modern day Egypt—an intoxicating blend of the ancient and the contemporary.

Population: 62,359,600

Size: 1,001,449 square kilometers
Capital: Cairo (pop. 9 million)
Language: Arabic
People: Berbers, Bedouins, Nubians
Religion: Islam (90%), Christian (7%)

Geography:

Egypt is the largest country in the Arab world and second in population (of African nations) only to Nigeria. Over 90% of Egypt is barren desert, leaving 99% of the population to live in just 3% of the land, including the fertile Nile Valley and Delta. Egypt's Mediterranean coast boasts numerous white sand beaches, many still development-free. Egypt's neighbors are Libya to the west, and Sudan to the south.

Climate:

Egypt's climate is hot and dry for most of the year. Between March and April, powerful winds blow in from the Western Desert. Some rain falls along the coast, but further south is primarily dry.

Flora & Fauna:

Most of the animals worshipped by ancient Egyptians—leopards, cheetahs, oryx, hyenas—are long gone. Camels and donkeys are the most visible animals in Egypt. There are also 34 varieties of snakes, including the cobra, but sightings are rare.

Culture:

In ancient Egypt visual arts, writing, and literature all celebrated religion—the elaborate tombs, pyramids, and temples are legacies of their religious beliefs and practices. Later, Muslim artists brought the distinctive mosque architecture to Egypt. The majority of Egyptian people today are fellahin, or farmers, whose lifestyles and traditions have hardly changed over the past centuries.

Government:

The Arab League was founded after World War II by seven Arab countries including Egypt, and Egypt won full independence in 1953. Mohammed Hosni Mubarak is president.

Food:

The staples of Egyptian cuisine are fava beans (ful), rice, and pita bread (aysh). Local specialties include kufta, ground lamb roasted like kebab; torly, vegetable casserole made with lamb or beef; and hamaam, stuffed, grilled pigeon. Egyptian desserts, such as baklava, are often drenched in honey. Ahwa, Egyptian coffee, is dark and delicious.

Clothing:

Light, loose fitting cottons and linens are best for Egypt's heat, and comfortable, lightweight shoes are essential. Modest dress is strongly recommended, especially for women--it is best to avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, or short dresses. Sunglasses, hat and sunscreen are advisable for protection from the strong Egyptian sun. In December through March you may want to bring a sweater for cooler evenings. Remember not to visit mosques or other religious sites with bare legs or shoulders as entrance may be denied on this basis.

Health:

Certain vaccinations and preventive medications are advised for travel to Egypt. Your physician can give you specific recommendations. Be sure to consult your physician several weeks before your departure, as some medications must be taken in advance of your trip. We recommend that you drink only bottled water and avoid eating fresh fruits or vegetables that cannot be peeled.

Shopping:

Bargaining in Egypt is a part of life, so take your time and enjoy the process. Remember that you are never obliged to buy anything, and never offer a price that you are unwilling to pay. The Khan al-Khalili bazaar is open 10am-9pm daily and closed on Sundays.

Money:

Currency is the Egyptian pound. A supply of US currency in small denominations is useful for bargaining for taxi rides and souvenirs. Banking hours are 8:30am-2pm Sunday-Thursday; closed Friday, Saturday and most holidays.

Tipping:

In restaurants, if a service charge is not included, a 10% tip is appropriate. If it is included, it is still customary to leave a tip of 5% or less for your server. Taxi drivers and local guides expect small gratuities. It is customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a token of your appreciation at the tour's end. We recommend $2 per person per day for the driver and $3 per person per day for your Tour Director.

Time:

Greenwich Mean Time plus two hours. When it's noon in New York, it's 7pm in Egypt.
Electricity: 220 volts