Egypt

Types of trips: Culture and History, Religious and Spiritual, Outdoors and Active, Nature, Adventure, Beach and waterside, Diving, Relaxation

Best known for: Pyramids, Sphinx, River Nile, Pharaohs, Valley of the Kings, Hieroglyphs, Desert, Heat, Camels

Why Go?: Most people instantly associate Egypt with its ancient history and that has to be the main appeal for school groups. So many pupils are fascinated by ancient Egypt, what could be more exciting than seeing the artifacts for real. Bring history alive whilst enjoying the beautiful scenery, incredible sights and wonderful weather in this 'world of wonder'.

Fact File

Population: 86,500,000 

Capital: Cairo

Language(s): Arabic

Ties to the UK?: Strong and longstanding relationship, Suez Crisis is an example of when we've helped each other

Landscape: Vastly desert, populations concentrated around the Nile, heavier vegetation around the Nile, Mountains

Climate/Seasons: Very dry, with hardly any rain all year round. Hot summers especially on the Red Sea coast, mild but not cold winters.

When to Go: If you're going to see the sights of the ancient world then the best time to go is between October and April although they are a lively attraction all year round. Beware that during Christmas and Easter the crowds pile in to see the monuments. If you're looking elsewhere then the summer may be a good option but watch it, it'll be hot!

Reasons to Visit: Home to the oldest of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World, Egypt is swimming in history and culture and there is no better place to make history come alive for your pupils.

How to Get There: As with any destination in Europe your best and only choice is to fly, there are a few big airports but if you're going to see the pyramids at Giza your best option in Cairo.

Places to Go: Giza, Cairo, Valley of the Kings, The White Desert, Ramses III

Famous People: King Tut, Cleopatra VII, Omar Sharif, 

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: River Nile, Sahara Desert, Valley of the Kings, Camels

History: Ancient Egypt, Muhammad Ali Dynasty

Architecture: The Great Pyramid of Giza, The Sphinx, Al-Azhar Mosque

Culture: Arts and Literature scene, Museums, live music

Sport: Football, Summer Olympics, Weightlifting, Boxing, Wrestling, Swimming

Events: Abu Simbel Sun Festival, Luxor Marathon

Watch Out For: The country is currently in a state of political unrest and it is therefore advised that travel to the country is considered careful however, Cairo and therefore Giza (the primary attraction for most school groups), is well outside of the areas in which conflict and demonstrations are taking place. For more information see the gov.uk website

Medical Issues: No mandatory vaccinations required

Watch this video about visiting Egypt!