Read this before planning a trip to Egypt

Egypt is a timeless destination that feels like stepping into a living museum. You’ve heard stories of the Nile, the Pyramids of Giza, and the Sphinx, but nothing compares to beholding these wonders firsthand. No matter how many times you’ve seen it in books or movies, it never loses its magic.

If it’s your first time heading to the North African country, we’ve covered everything a Nigerian passport holder needs to know.

Overview of Egypt

Geography and Climate

Egypt is located in the northeastern corner of Africa. It shares borders with the Mediterranean Sea to the north, Sudan to the south, and Libya to the west. The country is mostly desert and the climate is predominantly arid.

Culture and Language

The official language of Egypt is Arabic, though English is commonly spoken.

Currency and Timezone

The official currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP). The country is on UTC+2, so if it’s noon in Lagos, it’s 1 p.m. in Cairo.

Egypt Travel Requirements for Nigerians

Nigerian passport holders need a visa to enter Egypt. But if you have a used and valid Schengen, UK or US visa, you qualify for a visa on arrival. 

The process involves submitting an application at the Egyptian Embassy in Abuja, along with the following documents:

• Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
• Completed visa application form which costs $5
• Passport-sized photos on white background(2)
• Flight reservation
• Hotel booking or invitation letter
• For couples: Marriage certificate stamped by Ministry of Foreign Affairs(MFA)
• For families: Birth certificate and letter of consent from the father stamped by MFA
• Recent bank statements
• Visa fee  

Processing time is at least 3 weeks. 

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How much is the Egypt visa for Nigerians

Egypt’s tourist visa fee is $100 for a single entry and $155 for multiple entry. 

How to get to Egypt from Nigeria

Popular airlines flying from Nigeria to Egypt

• EgyptAir flies direct flights
• Ethiopian Airlines connects via Addis Ababa
• Turkish Airlines connects via Istanbul
• Emirates connects via Dubai

A direct flight from Lagos to Cairo lasts between 5 to 6 hours. Connecting flights may take longer, depending on layover times.

Best time to visit Egypt

The best time to explore Egypt is during the cooler months, from October to April. The temperature is not as hot and more manageable. December and January are peak tourist seasons, so if you prefer fewer crowds, consider traveling in the shoulder months of October-November or February-April.

How much to budget for your trip to Egypt

Flights

Return flights from Nigeria to Egypt usually range from $400 to $800, depending on the season, the airline, and how early you book. 

Accommodation

• Budget accommodations: $10–$20 per night.
• Mid-range accommodations: $30–$60 per night.
• Luxury hotels: $80–$150 per night.

Food and Drinks

• Street food like koshari and falafel: $1–$2 per serving.
• Mid-range restaurant meals: $3–$10 per person.
• Upscale dining: $15–$30 per person.

Activities

Costs for activities vary depending on what you want to experience:

• Entry fees for major attractions like the Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum: $5–$10 per person.
• Guided tours, Nile cruises, or desert excursions: $30–$100 per person, depending on the length and type of tour.

Must-see places in Egypt

1. Cairo
   Cairo is Egypt’s buzzing capital. Here, you’ll find the Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the Great Sphinx. It’s also home to the Egyptian Museum, where you can find amazing artifacts, including the treasures of King Tutankhamun.
2. Luxor
   Luxor is often called the world’s greatest open-air museum. It’s full of ancient temples. And there’s the Valley of the Kings, where many pharaohs are buried in elaborate tombs.
3. Aswan
   To experience Egypt’s Nubian culture, head to Aswan. It’s a beautiful city along the Nile River. One of the most impressive sights here is the High Dam, which controls the flow of the Nile River and helps prevent flooding.
4. The Nile River
   The Nile River runs through the heart of Egypt and a cruise is the perfect way to see it.
5. Siwa Oasis
   Siwa Oasis is a peaceful desert retreat that feels like another world. It’s known for its tranquil atmosphere, beautiful dunes, and hot springs. 

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How long should you stay in Egypt?

A stay of 7 to 10 days works to experience most of Egypt’s rich culture and history, 

Some tips for first-time travelers to Egypt

• Dress modestly to respect local customs, particularly in rural areas or religious sites.
• Solo travelers, particularly women, might find Egypt slightly challenging so we advise traveling in a group.