Travelling to Egypt
About Egypt
Egypt, a land steeped in history and cradle of civilization, boasts a rich heritage that spans millennia. From the pharaohs of ancient Egypt to the modern republic, the country’s story is etched in its majestic monuments, vibrant culture, and resilient people. Geographically, Egypt is located in North Africa, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, the Red Sea to the east, Sudan to the south, and Libya to the west. The Nile River, the lifeblood of Egypt, flows from south to north, creating a fertile valley that has sustained human life for thousands of years. Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is a bustling metropolis and the largest city in the Arab world. Situated on the banks of the Nile, Cairo is a melting pot of cultures, where ancient wonders coexist with modern dynamism. The city’s history is palpable, with iconic landmarks like the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum showcasing the grandeur of ancient Egypt. Cairo’s strategic location has made it a center of trade, commerce, and intellectual exchange for centuries. Today, it is a vibrant hub of art, culture, and innovation, attracting visitors from all corners of the globe. From the winding alleyways of Old Cairo to the modern skyscrapers of New Cairo, the city offers a fascinating blend of old and new, making it a truly unique and unforgettable destination. The history and geography of Egypt, and particularly Cairo, provide a compelling backdrop for the important work being done at the Egyptian Conference of Human Genetics and Genome Research Institute.
Cairo, the Capital
Cairo, a city brimming with history and culture, offers a plethora of captivating sights and experiences for visitors. No trip to Cairo is complete without a visit to the Giza Plateau, home to the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx. These monumental structures, testaments to the ingenuity and power of ancient Egyptians, are a must-see for anyone interested in history and archaeology. The Egyptian Museum, located in the heart of Cairo, houses an unparalleled collection of artifacts from ancient Egypt, including treasures from the tomb of Tutankhamun. Exploring the museum’s vast galleries is like stepping back in time and immersing oneself in the fascinating world of pharaohs, gods, and goddesses. Old Cairo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of narrow streets, historic churches, synagogues, and mosques, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich religious and cultural diversity. The Coptic Cairo area, with its ancient churches and monasteries, is a testament to the long history of Christianity in Egypt. The Khan El-Khalili bazaar, a vibrant marketplace in the heart of Islamic Cairo, is a sensory feast, where visitors can haggle for souvenirs, spices, and traditional crafts. For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Cairo Tower, a modern landmark that offers breathtaking vistas of Cairo’s skyline. A leisurely felucca ride on the Nile River provides a relaxing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of Cairo from a different perspective. In addition to a big number of trendy shopping malls and coffee shops to have a breath and enjoy your shopping experience. These are just a few of the many incredible places to visit in Cairo, a city that truly has something to offer everyone.
Travel Facilitation Manual
Visas: Visas are required for all foreigners, except some Arab nationals. E-visas can be purchased from the official government website: visa2egypt.gov.eg.
Currency: The Egyptian pound (LE, EGP) is the official currency of Egypt. Cash is generally king in Egypt although major credit cards are accepted in midrange and high-end restaurants and hotels, and large shops. Always keep small change as baksheesh is expected everywhere. When in doubt, tip. Exchange your currency to Egyptian Pounds at the airport or authorized exchange offices.
Transportation to the venue from the airport: If you require assistance in your transportation, please contact the conference organizers to facilitate this to you. Or you can always choose one of these means of transportation.
1- Airport Transportation services: Cairo Airport Shuttle and London Cab Services are available in the terminal upon arrival. Trip cost to the Congress venue is EGP 1200-1300 (USD 24-26). You can book your trip online from their website. (Cairo Shuttle Bus) (London Cab).
2- Taxi: Readily available upon arrival. Agree on a fixed fare beforehand to avoid inflated prices. Expect to pay EGP 350-400 (USD 7-8) for the journey (slightly higher at night). Ride-hailing apps Uber and Careem operate in Cairo. Download their apps before arrival and pre-book your ride for guaranteed availability and transparent pricing. Expect similar fares to taxis (possibly higher during peak hours).
3- Metro: The Cairo Metro is a fast and affordable way to travel around the city. The nearest station to the conference venue (Sofitel Cairo Nile Elgezirah Hotel) is ” OPERA (GEZIRAH) METRO STATION.” Purchase a smart card at the station and top it up for your desired journeys. Fares start from EGP 10 (USD 0.2) per trip.
Climate: Egypt is characterized by a cool season from October to May and a hot season from May to October. Temperatures in Cairo during October range from highs of 29°C to 33°C (84°F to 91°F) and lows of 16°C to 19°C (60°F to 66°F) with an average 9 hours of sunshine per day.
Dress: Egypt is a conservative country and modest attire is recommended.
Time zone: GMT/UTC + 2hr. Country code: +20
Electricity: 220V/50-60Hz Type C or Type F adaptors required.
Language: Arabic is the main language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Download a translation app for offline assistance if needed.