egypt band tour

Seun Kuti & Egypt 80

Seun Kuti is the youngest son of legendary Afrobeat godfather Fela Kuti. At the age of nine, Seun expressed a wish to sing to his father. A short while later Seun started performing with his father and the band, until his father’s untimely death in 1997. Seun, then only 14 years old, assumed the role as leader of the Egypt 80. Ever since, Seun has followed the political and social ethos of his father. Along the way, he began to add his own twist to the music, digging deep into various African traditions to reflect the continent's struggles and cultures. About three quarters of the current Egypt 80 line-up consists of musicians that not only played with Fela Kuti, but often were arrested and harassed alongside the founder of the Afrobeat movement. Seun Kuti has toured the world and released many albums.

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Maroon 5 to begin Middle East tour at Egypt's Giza Pyramids

The popular pop-rock group will play at the giza plateau on may 3 before heading to abu dhabi's etihad arena.

Maroon 5 will play a show at Egypt's Giza Plateau in May. Reuters

US pop band Maroon 5 will play a concert at Egypt’s Giza Pyramids on May 3, kick-starting a much-anticipated Middle East tour which will also include shows in the UAE and Israel.

The award-winning group previously played in Cairo in 2011, when they took to the stage at the Gezira Youth Centre in Zamalek.

The ancient monuments have been a popular venue among performers visiting Egypt for decades, hosting the likes of jazz legend Louis Armstrong in 1961 and renowned crooner Frank Sinatra in 1979.

More recently, the Giza Plateau has played host to Shakira, the Red Hot Chilli Peppers and the Black Eyed Peas .

Maroon 5’s frontman Adam Levine is particularly popular in Egypt after having served as one of the main judges on US singing competition show The Voice , the Arabic version of which is widely watched in the Arab world’s most populous nation.

The group has had a number of massive hits over the years including She Will Be Loved and Moves Like Jagger .

The band have sold more than 135 million records worldwide since the release of their debut album, Songs About Jane , in 2002.

Aside from their upcoming performance at the pyramids, their Middle East tour will also include a show at Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Arena on May 6, and another at Tel Aviv’s Hayarkon Park on May 9.

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Egypt central bio.

Taking their name from one the toughest roads that runs through their hometown of Memphis, Tennessee, Egypt Central was formed in 2001, by John T. Falls (vocals), Joey Chicago (bass), Heath Hindman (guitar), Blake Allison (drums), and Jeff James (guitar). The band was signed to LAVA Records by Music industry vet Jason Flom and instantly the band went into the studio to record their first self-titled disc in 2006. produced and mixed by Josh Abraham (Velvet Revolver, Korn, Limp Bizkit, Staind, Linkin Park, etc.). What came out of that 3-month process was an insanely catchy, hard-driven disc that has turned rock fans' expectations upside down. Their sound encompasses edgy rock, thunderous metal, and tumbles into the realm of funk and arena rock. As the wind of change took place in the music industry, corporate downsizing took hold and Jason had left the company as well as many of the bands that he had signed. Egypt Central had found themselves with out a label but knew they still had one damn good record! One of their tracks "Over and Under" caught the attention of the WWE and was featured in the movie, "The Condemned" staring Stone Cold Steve Austin. The band knew that if they could keep turning people on to their music, then opportunities would come. Pockets of radio play started to develop. Ft Wayne, Tallahassee, Biloxi, and obviously Memphis and reaction to “Over and Under” was instant. With that exposure, the band earned themselves slots on the Ozzfest and Family Values Tour. As momentum continued to build, so did record company interest and in the summer of 2007 Egypt Central signed a new record deal with Fat Lady Music/ILG. With a new record company behind them, the band went back in the studio to really put the polish on a record that was never fully finished. “We were happy to get another crack at it,” comments Falls. “I’m the type of person that will constantly tweak something until I feel it is the best I can give”. So, with the help of mixer Paul David Hagar and mastered by legendary George Marino, they have Re-mixed/Re-mastered and Re-sequenced the CD taking it to another level! The release date for their newly tooled debut CD is January 15, 2008. According to vocalist, Falls, "the lyrics have something to say." Bassist, Joey Chicago adds, "We realize just how important our role is as a musicians. We want people to feel good about listening to our music and overcoming obstacles in life that can really slow you down." Foster care, rehabs, homelessness, signed to a major label and dropped - the band's self titled debut CD tells the story of their lives - an ever changing collage of lost love, frustration, broken dreams, but with the determination to rise and succeed. "Life is what you make of it," says, Falls. "We're not vengeful people, and we would never let any negative energy ruin how great it feels to have an album out. After all the work we put in, it's the greatest feeling ever and I don't think it would be so gratifying had we not been through everything we've experienced. It's just another defining moment of what Egypt Central is all about...facing obstacles and overcoming them."

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Cairokee’s New Album ‘Roma’ Tops All Music Platforms in Egypt

Popular Egyptian indie band Cairokee just released their latest album, ‘Roma’, and it has already topped the charts on all music streaming platforms in Egypt.

Considered one of the most prolific contemporary Egyptian bands, Cairokee is currently on tour in the US, where they played ‘Roma’ live for the first time in New York. “We love playing here, everyone is always so enthusiastic and we can almost feel their longing for the homeland,” actor and Cairokee drummer, Tamer Hashem, tells SceneNoise. The tour takes the band from New York to Houston, Los Angeles and San Francisco before heading back to Egypt, where they will prepare for an upcoming Cairokee Empire album launch.

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Egypt Central Break Up, Band Members Form New Band Devour the Day

After a decade together, the Memphis band Egypt Central are breaking up. Bassist Joey Chicago and drummer Blake Allison have posted a message about the demise of Egypt Central and their formation of the new band Devour the Day .

Egypt Central released two studio albums, the most recent being 'White Rabbit' in 2011. They scored a handful of radio hits, including 'You Make Me Sick,' 'White Rabbit' and 'Kick Ass.'

Here's the message regarding the breakup and the formation of the new band:

"To the future... I know that many of you have been wondering what has been going on with Egypt Central, where we have been, and what we have been doing. After ten long years of recording, touring and pouring our hearts out, it would be such a shame to try to push some bulls--t in front of your faces and to ask you to believe it. I just do not want to do that. You mean too much and honestly it goes against everything EC was intended to stand for. The one real creed in which we inspired to live by, one that reveals itself as true in so many walks of life and situations that each and every one of us face, day-to-day, all over this broken planet: do not give up. No matter the circumstance, there is hope. Earlier this year, Blake and I were made aware that the remaining members of Egypt Central would not be continuing on with the band. The reasons varied and the way in which we were told was as much of a shock as we could have ever expected to hear. We were furious, sad and confused. I have EC tattooed on my skin, as many of you do, and for me it was not just a band, but also a real responsibility to all those who had supported us from day one and who were there when we needed them. The countless couches we have crashed on, the endless homemade meals and all of the other unexpected pieces of love we encountered over ten years of hard work. Blake and I stood in the debris of a life changing storm. We refuse to let this be the end of our story. We have so many chapters left to write. As each door closes, a new one opens and Blake and I take it upon ourselves to redefine and evolve, to dissect and purify, to adjust and resurrect. We will seize the moment and risk all to complete our dream, the dream that all of you helped to create. We will not waste the chances we have been given. We will live as if tomorrow is not guaranteed. We will Devour the Day! With love and thanks, Joey Chicago  

Allison and Chicago will be doing a Twitter Q&A Tuesday (Dec. 4) at 8PM ET to answer questions about Egypt Central and Devour the Day. They will be using Egypt Central's Twitter account (@EgyptCentral ) with the hashtag #ECQA.

Allison will be the vocalist and guitarist for Devour the Day, with Chicago handling bass and backing vocals. An album is expected in early 2013.

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EGYPT, LAND OF SECRETS – Tours | Travel Band

EGYPT IS A GREAT DESTINATION THAT SUITS THE MOST ECLECTIC OF TASTES. THERE LITERALLY IS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE TO ENJOY. SAIL DOWN THE NILE IN THE LAP OF LUXURY, TAKING IN TEMPLES, PYRAMIDS AND RUINS. ALTERNATIVELY, STAY IN A TOP HOTEL BY THE RED SEA, WHERE THE SCUBA DIVING IS RANKED AMONG THE BEST IN THE WORLD. PERHAPS YOU WOULD LIKE TO DO BOTH? NO PROBLEM.OR MAYBE YOU WANT TO COMBINE THE OLD EGYPT WITH THE NEW? VISIT THE TEMPLES OF LUXOR, KARNAK, AND EDFU AND DENDERA THEN ESCAPE TO THE COOL OF THE HIGH DOMED CITY MOSQUES. VIEW ONE OF THE SEVEN GREAT WONDERS OF THE WORLD – THE PYRAMIDS OF GIZA – THEN IN NEARBY CAIRO, SEE TUTANKHAMEN’S TREASURES, VISIT THE FAMOUS MEDIAEVAL CITADEL AND SHOP IN OPEN-AIR BAZAARS BEFORE VISITING THE OPERA HOUSE. OR SIMPLY STROLL AROUND THE STREETS OF CAIRO WHERE LONG-ROBED MEN IN DONKEY CARTS MIX WITH SUITED BUSINESS PEOPLE.WHATEVER YOU DECIDE, THE LAND OF THE PHARAOHS OFFERS A FASCINATING BLEND OF ANCIENT MARVELS AND MODERN COMFORTS, COMBINED WITH FABULOUS RECREATIONAL POSSIBILITIES AND A PERFECT CLIMATE THAT WILL LEAVE YOU WITH MEMORIES TO LAST A LIFETIME.

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Egypt Trips & Tour Packages

Awesome ancient wonders, endless golden sands and atmospheric local souqs make Egypt the ultimate travel destination.

You’ve got to see it to believe it in Egypt – the chaos of Cairo (seriously, this city never stops); the bustling bazaars; the imposing glory of the Pyramids of Giza, and the world’s most famous lion with a human head (the iconic Sphinx).Only in Egypt can you sail into the sunset on a felucca cruise along the Nile, marvel at the world's most spectacular temple complexes, wander through Luxor’s Valley of the Kings, and then float facing towards the sky in the glittering expanse of the Red Sea. Take a moment as time stands still in Egypt.

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Egypt at a glance

Capital city.

Cairo (population 9.4 million)

107.5 million

Egyptian pound (EGP)

(GMT+02:00) Cairo

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin)

Learn more about Egypt

Best time to visit egypt.

Egypt is blessed with lots of sunshine and very little rain. Generally, the hottest months are June to August, and the coolest month is January. Rainfall is negligible, except on the coast, with rain usually occurring during the winter months (December to March).

During the summer months (from June to August), daily temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius) - perfect for snorkeling and soaking up the sun on the beaches of Sinai, but can prove challenging for some in the crowded streets and souqs of Cairo.

Choose to escape the crowds by traveling from March to May or September to November when the weather is milder, and there's the opportunity to experience Egypt during Ramadan and the celebrations of Eid (which marks the breaking of the fast). If you are planning to travel during Ramadan, it's important to consider that many restaurants and shops will either be closed or operating at reduced hours.

Read more about the best time to visit Egypt

Culture and customs

Life in Egypt has been in a state of flux since the 2011 revolution. Many of the issues that motivated so many to take to the streets in protest continue to be points of contention, but Egyptians remain hopeful, relying on religion, family and humor to get them through, like they have for thousands of years. A strong sense of community binds people across the country. Families and communities support each other and there is a prevailing sense that everyone is in it together. For all these reasons, most express great pride in being Egyptian, despite their nation’s recent turmoil.

As a largely Muslim country (about 90% of the population is Muslim while most of the remaining 10% identify as Coptic Christian), Islam permeates daily activities. Life revolves around the five daily prayers and everything is closed on Friday, the Muslim holy day. A wide array of cultural norms, including how people dress and interact with the opposite sex, are influenced by religion. Women are largely defined by their role as a mother and matron of the house, whereas men are expected to be the provider.

Many Egyptians consider their country the gateway between the West and the rest of the Arab world, and take pride in their ability to mix tradition with modern influences. This mixing is most apparent in major cities, such as Cairo and Alexandria, where American fast-food chains can be found next to traditional cafes, secular attitudes are more common, and pop music rings through city streets.

Food and drink

With fragrant spices, fresh fruit and vegetables, and delicious sweets on offer, culinary adventures in Egypt are guaranteed. On many Intrepid trips you'll be given the opportunity to dine with a local family – this offers a great chance to see how meals are prepared and learn more about the ingredients.

Things to try in Egypt

1. Hamam mahshi

A north African delicacy, hamam – roasted pigeon stuffed with cracked wheat and rice – can be found on the menu of most traditional Egyptian restaurants. You may need a few to fill up though, as they don’t contain a lot of meat. And be careful of all the tiny bones.

2. Ta'ameya (falafel)

Crunchy on the outside, and moist on the inside, these deep-fried balls of spiced fava beans are a Middle Eastern vegetarian staple. Usually served in a pita with salad, pickles, and sesame-based tahina - buy it at a street stall for a quick, cheap meal.

Shops specializing in this popular ‘poor man’s dish’ can be found throughout Cairo. A hearty mix of rice, macaroni and lentils, chickpeas, and fried onions, koshary is topped with a tomato-vinegar sauce.

4. Ful medames

Don't leave Egypt without trying the classic dish of ful medames, which can be traced back to pharaonic times. Consisting of slow-cooked fava beans, served with olive oil, parsley, garlic, and lemon juice - add some spice by seasoning with chili paste and eat with bread.

5. Pastries

Delicious, sweet pastries are found in restaurants, markets, and cafes in Egypt. Never was there a better time to live by the adage ‘Life is short, eat dessert first’.

Egypt is a mostly Muslim country, and any consumption of alcohol here is relatively low-key. There are many fantastic alternatives. Juice stands are common on main streets offering freshly squeezed banana, guava, or mango juice. Karkadai is a chilled, crimson drink brewed from hibiscus leaves (served hot in the winter). And tea (or shai) is the beverage of choice for most Egyptians, which is sipped throughout the day and with meals.

Read more about what to eat in Egypt

Read more about what to drink in Egypt

Geography and environment

Located in the northeast corner of Africa, Egypt shares its borders with Israel and the Palestinian Territories, Libya, and Sudan, as well as the Mediterranean Sea to the north and the Red Sea to the east. The two seas are connected by the man-made Suez Canal.

The remote triangle-shaped peninsula is largely characterized by limestone and desert, but also has a vibrant coral reef along the Red Sea coastline. Hot, dry desert covers most of the country’s terrain, with the Western Desert occupying much of the west, and the Arabian (or Eastern) Desert stretching the length of the eastern coast. These two regions are dissected by the Nile River, which runs the length of the country, emptying into the Mediterranean Sea. The Nile Valley, a narrow fertile band extending from the river, is the country’s only fertile land and where 98% of the population lives.

History and government

Recent history.

Napoleon Bonaparte, the infamous pint-sized French leader, invaded Egypt in 1798, seeking to set up a French colony. However, not long after, the French were repelled, and Egypt became a part of the Ottoman Empire once again.

From 1882, the British Army occupied Egypt to protect the Suez Canal. Muhammad Ali officially ruled from the early 1800s, and his family and successors continued to rule for decades (alongside and during British occupation) until overthrown by a military coup in 1952.

During World War II, Egypt became a crucial element in Britain's defense. The Italian Army tried to advance into Egypt in 1940 but was stopped by the British Army at Mersa Matruh. Egypt continued to serve as a vital base for British troops during World War II and despite the disruption, Egypt's shopkeepers and retail trade benefitted from the thousands of Allied troops staying in Egypt.

In 1953, Egypt was officially declared a republic, and a year later, Colonel Nasser was declared Prime Minister, then President. In 1979, after decades of confrontation with neighboring Israel, the historic Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty was signed. This agreement made Egypt the first Arab country to officially recognize Israel as a country - a significant step in the peace process. More recently, in February 2011, large-scale protests and mass demonstrations resulted in the removal of President Mubarak after decades of autocratic rule.

Early history

Ancient Egypt has been the focus of much fascination, investigation, speculation, and intrigue. It's hard to escape the education system without having studied Ancient Egypt in some way. Drawn in by the mighty pyramids, mysterious hieroglyphics, distinct burial rituals and animal-headed gods - scholars, students, historians, and travelers are all amazed by this civilization which has endured cycles of dynastic rule, invasion, and natural disasters.

Through key archaeological finds, historians have been able to unravel some of the mysteries of this great land. What is known is that the daily life of the average Egyptian usually involved working in agriculture with the waters of the Nile providing fertile ground for planting crops. Egyptians usually lived in modest homes with children and domestic pets. Professions were usually inherited - so if your father was a farmer, then so were you.

While most Egyptians led simple lives, dynasties of Pharaohs led lavish lifestyles, with the most well-known being Ramses II, Hatshepsut, Akhenaten, Tutankhamun, and Cleopatra. Huge monuments, imposing pyramids, golden artifacts, and detailed paintings all hold details about pharaonic rule and succession, as well as commonly held beliefs about religion and the afterlife.

Spanning centuries and full of drama worthy of a soap opera, the epic history of Ancient Egypt is complex and we suggest you read about it before visiting.

Top places to visit in Egypt

1. nile river.

Sail down the mighty Nile River on a traditional Egyptian felucca.

Trip: Egypt Experience

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Dive into the warm, glittering waters of the Red Sea on a snorkeling adventure in Hurghada.

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3. Alexandria

Discover the historic wonders of Alexandria, an ancient port city that locals call the Bride of the Mediterranean Sea.

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Experience the bustling energy of Cairo and shop for souvenirs at Cairo's Khan al-Khalili bazaar.

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5. Mt Sinai

Hike to the summit of Mt Sinai, which many believe is where Moses received the ten commandments.

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Explore the impressive chapels, pylons and obelisks of Karnak Temple.

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7. Abu Simbel

These massive monuments dedicated to Ramses II and Queen Nefertari are seriously impressive.

8. Valley of the Kings

King Tut’s treasures may be long gone, but his hieroglyphic-covered tomb remains an incredible sight to see.

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Top 10 ancient wonders of Egypt

1. grand designs.

The original grand design - monumental and magnificent - the Pyramids of Giza are an impressive achievement in ancient engineering. Towering above the desert sands and standing proudly for centuries, the first glimpse of these stunning structures will render visitors breathless.

2. Stony enigma

Be captivated by the mysterious aura of the Great Sphinx of Giza. This monolithic mythical beast possesses a lion’s body and a human head - and has sat quietly in the desert sands for eons. Gaze at the Sphinx and try to work out the riddle of its existence.

3. Mighty Nile River

No trip to Egypt is complete without visiting the Nile River - the life force of Egypt that has flowed for centuries. A provider of irrigation, an essential travel route, home to hippos and crocodiles, and now a source of leisure for locals and travelers alike, the Nile is an aquatic link to Egypt’s ancient heritage.

4. Terrific temples

Discover an enormous open-air museum like no other. The awe-inspiring Temples of Karnak are filled with stately statues, immense columns, and gigantic gateways. Explore this intriguing site and be left in no doubt about the brilliance of the ancient Egyptian civilization.

5. Holy mountain

Embark on a trek to the top of Mt Sinai and witness an incredible golden sunrise to remember. A place of worship for many faiths, a pilgrimage to Mt Sinai reveals stunning scenery, an ancient monastery and historic chapels. An iconic highlight of Egypt for believers and non-believers alike, Mt Sinai is not to be missed.

6. Double happiness

Located in the Nile Valley, the unique Temple of Kom Ombo is a ‘double temple’ and a rare archaeological find. Dedicated to two gods, a visit here is a true highlight of an Egyptian escapade. Marvel at the well-preserved wall reliefs, try to decipher the hieroglyphics and honour the craftsmen who created this wonder.

7. Museum magic

Step into a dazzling world of antiquity at the Egyptian Museum. Be amazed by the glittering treasures recovered from King Tutankhamun’s tomb – with jewelry, furniture, chariots and that famous gold funerary mask, this pharaoh was certainly prepared for the afterlife.

8. Roman ruins

The Roman ruins of Kom el-Dikka in Alexandria may not be the biggest, but they are certainly among the best-preserved in Egypt, if not the world. Soak up the atmosphere of the Roman amphitheater and imagine it in all its glory - packed with 800 spectators ready for action.

9. Colossal characters

Near the modern city of Luxor stand the imposing Colossi of Memnon. These massive stone statues of Amenhotep III, while badly damaged, still maintain an unmistakable air of authority. Stand below them and be dwarfed by the scale of these tremendous figures.

10. The ancient heart of Cairo

Wander the cobbled streets of Islamic Cairo and uncover the ancient heart of this chaotic city. Admire mosques, palaces and houses, and peruse the goods on offer at one of the world’s oldest bazaars. Dating back to medieval times, the Khan al-Khalili bazaar is where people have traded goods for centuries.

Souqs – or open-air bazaars – are both the best place to shop in Egypt and attractions in their own right. The biggest and most famous souq is the 500-year-old Khan El Khalili Bazaar in Cairo. Within the maze of narrow streets and laneways lie stalls selling jewelry, glass, copper, spices and artisan goods, along with more standard tourist fare. Quality can vary greatly so spend some time shopping around.

Like many markets around the world, bargaining is the norm, but Egyptians take it to another level. Expect to be offered tea (it can take that long) and for elaborate theatrics from the seller. While bazaars in Cairo tend to sell everything, visit Aswan’s bazaar for spices, incense, and basketwork, and Luxor for cheaply priced alabaster figurines and vases. It's also a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country.

Things to buy in Egypt

You’ll often see spices piled high in bazaars. In addition to making a great photo for Instagram, they’re often a good buy as long as you keep a couple of things in mind. Always buy whole spices rather than ground to ensure freshness and skip the ‘saffron’ – it’s actually safflower and tastes like dust.

2. Glassware

Hand-blown Muski glass, recognizable by its air bubbles, comes in brilliant shades of blue and green and purple and has been made in Egypt since medieval times. Be careful with this purchase though as it’s extremely fragile.

3. Cartouche

A kind of nameplate written in hieroglyphics. Most gold or silver shops sell these and many can customize them by engraving your name.

Festivals and events

Eid al-fitr.

After fasting for an entire month, Muslims celebrate the end of Ramadan with Eid al-Fitr, or ‘Feast of Breaking the Fast’. For three days, starting on the first day of the tenth month of the lunar calendar, people celebrate with feasts, family, and festivals. Look for vendors selling kahk cookies (nut-filled cookies covered in powdered sugar) while taking in the festivities, a tasty treat synonymous with Eid for many locals.

Eid al-Adha

Arguably the most important holiday in Egypt, the ‘Feast of Sacrifice’ is not one for vegetarians and vegans. About 70 days after Eid al-Fitr, sheep, and goats are slaughtered (often in the middle of the street) for a mighty feast.

Sham el-Nessim

Each year on March 21st, Egyptians celebrate the coming of spring by spending the day outdoors. Join the locals for this ancient holiday by packing a picnic and heading to a park or public garden.

Abu Simbel Sun Festival

As if the two temples dedicated to Ramses II and Queen Nefertari weren’t impressive enough, they were constructed in such a way that twice a year, the sun’s rays reach its innermost chambers and illuminate three stone gods that reside within, while leaving Ptah (god of the underworld) in the dark. And those days just happen to be Ramses’s birthday (October 21) and coronation (February 21). Coincidence? We think not.

Read more about festivals in Egypt

Similar destinations

We have a variety of similar destinations, trips and routes that you could consider! Tie another trip into your holiday, or, see how we can help you get from A to B. We have tours departing from a number of locations across Africa. The options below may be of interest:

Cairo to Madaba

Amman to Madaba

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Egypt travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do you need a visa to travel to Egypt?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in Egypt?

Tipping is customary for pretty much all services in Egypt. A tip of 10–15% is customary at cafes and restaurants and loose change is acceptable for food purchases from street vendors and markets. It’s also a good idea to tip local guides and drivers USD$2.50-3 per day.

What is the internet access like in Egypt?

Internet access is growing in Egypt, with internet cafes and Wi-Fi hotspots becoming increasingly common in large cities, especially Cairo, though access may be limited in smaller towns and remote areas.

Can I use my cell phone in Egypt?

Cell phone coverage is generally good in Egypt’s urban areas, but may not be available in remote and desert areas. Ensure global roaming is activated with your service provider before leaving home.

What are the toilets like in Egypt?

Squat toilets are most common in Egypt, although Western-style flushable toilets can be found in larger hotels and some tourist areas.

What will it cost for a...?

Egypt's unit of currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

A couple of pastries = EGP 49 Cup of tea or coffee = EGP 35-50 Falafel sandwich from a street stall = EGP 92 Sit-down dinner at a local restaurant = EGP 100-300

Can I drink the water in Egypt?

Drinking tap water isn’t recommended in Egypt. Remember to avoid drinks with ice and to peel fruit before eating it. Help the environment and try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle with filtered water. Ask your leader or hotel where to find filtered water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Egypt?

Credit cards are usually accepted by modern hotels, large retailers, and tourist sites but are less commonly accepted by smaller vendors in remote areas. Always carry enough cash for smaller purchases in case credit cards are not an option.

What is ATM access like in Egypt?

ATMs are commonly found in larger cities, like Cairo and Alexandria, near shopping centers, tourist areas, and 5-star hotels, but are far less common in small towns and rural areas. Make sure you have enough cash before leaving urban areas.

What public holidays are celebrated in Egypt?

• 7 Jan: Coptic Christmas
• 28 Apr: Coptic Easter*
• 25 Apr: Sinai Liberation Day
• 28 Apr: Sham el-Nessim*
• 1 May: Labor Day
• 5 Jun: Eid al-Fitr*
• 23 Jul: National Day
• 12 Aug: Eid al-Adha
• 11 Sep: Coptic New Year
• 1 Sep: Islamic New Year*
• 6 Oct: Armed Forces Day
• 10 Nov: Birth of Prophet Mohammed*
• *Please note many of these public holidays are religious holidays and change each year as they are celebrated according to the Islamic lunar cycle. For a current list of public holidays in Egypt go to World Travel Guide's website.

Is Egypt a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Discretion is advised for LGBTQI travelers in Egypt. Though homosexuality is not officially outlawed, gay men have been prosecuted using debauchery and public morals laws and given long prison sentences. Be aware that signals are ambiguous in Egypt as men commonly hold hands, link arms and greet each other with a kiss on the cheek. As long as you use common sense, travel in Egypt should not be a problem.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex  or ILGA before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

What to wear in Egypt

Summer temperatures can get very high, so light fabrics like linen, cotton and athletic gear made to take the heat are best. If you’re traveling outside of winter, don’t underestimate the cool change that can come in the evenings, especially if you’re spending the night in the desert or on a Nile cruise. Avoid packing anything in white – desert dust will quickly turn those light-colored clothes a not-so-delightful shade of brown.

How will I travel around Egypt?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Where will I stay in Egypt?

Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When traveling with us in Egypt you may find yourself staying in a:

Felucca Glide down the Nile on a traditional Egyptian felucca; sleep on deck under the stars as the sun slides away for the day - a must-do experience while in Egypt.

Homestay Be welcomed into the home of a local family and experience the cuisine, culture and customs of Egypt firsthand during your stay. A truly authentic travel experience like no other.

Desert camp Travel deep into the White Desert to camp under the stars amid surreal scenery. This is a rare chance to experience the remote wonder and isolation of the Egyptian desert.

With calming Red Sea views and fresh sea breezes, this rustic breach abode is all about life’s simple pleasures.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my trip to Egypt support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Egypt directly support our foundation partner, Animal Care in Egypt . 

Animal Care in Egypt  

Animal Care in Egypt (ACE) cares for sick or injured working animals, like horses and donkeys, in Upper Egypt. Donations from our trips help ACE provide free veterinary care and fund education programs that empower local people with the knowledge and skills to best look after their animals. 

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

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The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Here are the hottest music events happening right now in egypt.

Farah Fahim

A crowd cheering, tunes floating in the air, and a voice serenading the masses; that is what concerts are all about. Concerts can make anyone feel young, waiting in long lines with anticipation and screaming lyrics with a crowd of people you share nothing with but your love of music. Concerts are a great way for fans to experience their favourite music and artists and have a memorable experience. Luckily, Egypt has some fantastic events happening, ranging from celebrity performances to upscale music festivals. So if you’re looking for an exciting way to spend your night with friends, here are some upcoming concerts for you.

The Backstreet Boys

As part of their “DNA World Tour”, the famous boy band is scheduled to perform at Zed East on May 1 st at 9 pm. This is the group’s first concert in Cairo, and they are also playing in the UAE, KSA, and South Africa. The boy band was formed in 1993 but rose to fame with their first album, “Backstreet Boys”, in 1996. They are considered one the most successful boy bands of all time, having sold over 100 million records worldwide. The beloved boy band also gave us some of our favourite songs, such as “I Want It That Way” and “Show Me the Meaning of Being Lonely”. Rush to TicketsMarche to get your ticket and enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime event.

Amr Diab Retro Concert -AUC

Amr Diab, also known as “El Hadaba”, has been a consistently successful and popular artist since his rise to fame in 1983. He is currently the best-selling artist in the Middle East and manages to hold on to that title with his countless albums and number-one hits. The Egyptian sensation that is Amr Diab always puts up a riveting performance at his concerts. His crowd is always diverse, he has commanded the Egyptian music scene for many generations, and his fanbase varies in age accordingly. His next show is at the American University in Cairo’s New Cairo campus. You can find tickets at Tazkarti .

Sandbox Festival- El Gouna

via Sandbox

The festival has been around for a few years, and it just keeps getting better! Sandbox aims to solidify a culture of “genre-bending lineups” for strangers of different backgrounds. They offer a variety of local and international performers that are encouraged to show their uniqueness. The festival is held in El Gouna, which serves not only as a mesmerising backdrop but also as a relaxing environment since the festival also offers a holistic experience, group yoga, and wellness classes. They also supply healthy food options, and of course, their location makes it easy to take a break and dip in the Red Sea. This year, their lineup includes local and foreign DJs and artists like Agents of Time, DJ Seinfeld, and Ahmed Spins. You can get tickets for Sandbox weekend running from Thursday, 11 th of May to Saturday, 13 th of May, here .

Red Bull Soundclash

It’s been ten years since Soundclash started in Egypt, with the first one taking place in Baron Palace back in 2013. The event, organised by Red Bull, brings together two bands with different styles and fanbases to compete for the crowd’s attention. The stages are set on opposite sides of each other, with each band taking turns improvising, and the crowd decides which one wins. This year, for their tenth anniversary, Soundclash is bringing together two top artists of different genres, Sharmoofers VS Afroto, with Disco Misr headlining. The event will be held at the Mall of Egypt on the 12 th of May, and doors will open at 1 pm. You can get your tickets from the Talabat application.

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Egyptian Blue tour dates 2024

Egyptian Blue is currently touring across 3 countries and has 11 upcoming concerts.

Their next tour date is at Stroomhuis in Eindhoven, after that they'll be at Ilses Erika in Leipzig.

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* Watch this space for last minute news, changes, cancellations, etc Due to various difficulties, including health issues, we have had to temporarily cut down on our usually busy schedule. For the near future gigs will be mainly local to us, mostly Norfolk & some in or near East Anglia. This means that some gigs have had to be postponed, cancelled or not booked yet pending a change in circumstances. Please make sure to check the Gig List to keep up to date.

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The Band Camino Announces New EP ‘Bruises,’ Summer Tour Dates

"Fresh starts are hard to come by when you've been a band for nine years and almost all of your 20s, but this release truly feels like one," the trio said of their upcoming release.

By Rania Aniftos

Rania Aniftos

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The Band Camino had a jam-packed 2023, complete with their pensive sophomore album, The Dark , and non-stop touring worldwide. But they’re not slowing down yet.

The Band Camino Dug Deep on Their Sophomore Album ‘The Dark’ in Order to Grow

Trending on billboard.

See the full list of tour dates below and on the band’s website here , and pre-save The Band Camino’s Bruises EP here.

July 8 – Seattle, Washington – Showbox SoDo July 11 – Sacramento, California – Ace of Spaces July 12 – Costa Mesa, California – Orange County Fair July 13 – Phoenix, Arizona – The Van Buren July 15 – Austin, Texas – ACL Live at the Moody Theater July 16 – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – The Criterion July 18 – St. Louis, Missouri – The Pageant July 19 – West Des Moines, Iowa – Val Air Ballroom July 20 – Milwaukee, Wisconsin – The Rave/Eagles Club July 22 – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – Stage AE July 23 – Cincinnati, Ohio – Bogart’s July 25 – Royal Oak, Michigan – Royal Oak Music Theatre July 26 – Fort Wayne, Indiana – The Clyde Theatre July 27 – Cleveland, Ohio – The Agora July 29 – Orlando, Florida – The Vanguard July 31 – Raleigh, North Carolina – The Ritz August 3 – Charlotte, North Carolina – The Fillmore Charlotte

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A practical guide to travel in Egypt, from tipping culture to independent touring

From packing tips to advice on haggling, here’s everything you need to know while planning your trip.

Whether you want to sail down the Nile on a felucca, explore ancient temples, browse the museums of Cairo or go trekking in Sinai, there are a few things to bear in mind when planning your trip to Egypt. Here’s what to be aware of when it comes to visas, tipping, guides and more.

Do I need a visa?

Almost all travellers, including visitors from the UK and the EU, need a visa to travel to Egypt. While it’s possible to get a visa on arrival, it saves time at the airport if you apply online in advance. A single-entry tourist visa costs US$25 (£20). If you plan to stay in the resort towns in Sinai for fewer than 15 days, you do not need a visa. Instead, you receive a ‘permission stamp’ in your passport when you land at Sharm el-Sheikh International Airport. While this option is a money saver, the list of places you’re permitted to visit is quite limited — even Ras Mohamed National Park at the southern tip of Sinai is off limits without the full visa.

What should I pack?

Egypt is a majority Muslim country, so it’s respectful for travellers to dress modestly. For all genders, this means covering everything between your shoulders and knees. You will likely be asked to cover up more if you visit a mosque or church.

The tap water is not safe to drink here so bring a water bottle with a filter, such as those from Lifestraw .

Wi-fi ranges from infuriatingly slow to nonexistent across the country, even at five-star hotels. Get mobile data through your service provider at home or buy an Egyptian SIM card when you land at the airport.

Can I pay by card in Egypt?

Cash reigns supreme but you can use a card at some higher-end hotels and restaurants. Take some Egyptian pounds out of a cash machine when you arrive, but be mindful of the fluctuating exchange rate and don’t take more out than you need. For bigger expenses, consider bringing US dollars, the most — and sometimes only — accepted foreign currency.

Tipping, called baksheesh, infiltrates almost every interaction you’ll have. It’s customary to tip nearly everyone you come in contact with, even for services you don’t want or require. Keep small change on hand for toilet attendants, porters, mosque caretakers and guards at temples and tombs.

Should I join a tour or travel independently?

Egypt has been a package-tour destination since the days of Thomas Cook, who first led a group to Egypt in 1869. The country is well set up for tour groups, and many first-time visitors find this option easiest, with guides and transport logistics arranged for you. Egypt’s historic sites have little signage, making a tour guide a necessity for deeper understanding.

Nile cruises generally run between Luxor and Aswan in both directions, but a few make the long journey from Cairo. Trains, planes and buses connect cities along the Nile, and buses or internal flights can take you to the Red Sea coast.

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Palestinian band escapes horrors of war but members’ futures remain uncertain

They stroll Doha’s waterfront promenade and sing softly about children who are now free of pain. For the Palestinian group Sol Band, it seems surreal that weeks ago they were hiding from Israeli shelling. (AP video: Lujain Jo)

From left, Said Fadel, Samir al Borno, Abood Qassim, Rahaf Shamaly, Ahmed Haddad, Fares Anbar and Hamada Nasrallah of the Gaza Strip-based Sol Band pose for a photograph in Doha, Qatar, Thursday, May 2, 2024. (AP Photo/Lujain Jo)

• Copy Link copied

From left, Fares Anbar, Abood Qassim, Rahaf Shamaly, Hamada Nasrallah, Ahmed Haddad and Said Fadel of the Gaza Strip-based Sol Band prepare for a practice session in Doha, Qatar, Friday, May, 3, 2024. (AP Photo/Lujain Jo)

DOHA, Qatar (AP) — They stroll Doha’s waterfront promenade and sing softly about children who are now “birds in heaven,” flying free of the pain of the war in Gaza .

For the Palestinian group Sol Band, it seems surreal that weeks ago they were hiding from Israeli shelling .

“I just want the war to end,” said Rahaf Shamaly, the band’s main vocalist and only woman. “I want to return to Gaza, walk and clean up its streets, hug my family, and sing with the band in the place where we started from.”

Five of the band’s seven musicians returned to Gaza in August to work on their next album.

“We had a lot of music and performances planned,” said Fares Anbar, the band’s percussionist.

But on Oct. 7, Hamas, along with other militants, attacked southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking 250 others hostage. Israel retaliated with a military campaign that has so far killed more than 35,000 people and leveled large swaths of Gaza.

In April, the five bandmates were able to leave Gaza via Egypt to Qatar .

The band — which formed in 2012 and plays both traditional Arabic songs and their own modern pop songs — has long served as a refuge for its members who grew up in Gaza amid grinding poverty and other hardships. Their home, a 360-square-kilometer (140-square-mile) enclave, has been blockaded for years by Egypt and Israel. Its population of 2.3 million Palestinians has suffered through previous rounds of war between Israel and Hamas, which has ruled the strip since 2007.

“Living under a siege, an occupation, and living through very difficult circumstances … music was my only escape since I was a child,” the band’s founder and percussionist, Said Fadel, said.

Music shaped Fadel’s life. His grandfather was one of the first percussionists in the area and his grandmother played the oud, a lute-like stringed musical instrument common in the Middle East and Africa.

Of Sol Band’s songs, “Raweq Wa Haddy,” or “Chill Down,” is their most famous. The lyrics that promise “great days coming back,” now seem a lifetime away for people who are moving from place to place, hiding from airstrikes.

After returning to Gaza in August to record, the five members of the band filmed themselves surviving the attacks and shared the videos online whenever an internet connection allowed. Music remained their lifeline and their main hope; they created songs, often amid the rubble, with sounds of explosions in the background. They filmed music videos from where they sheltered, urging people not to lose hope and remain resilient in the face of adversity.

Some songs touched on those killed by Israeli airstrikes, particularly children.

“My children are birds in heaven, lucky is heaven to have them,” one song goes. “All my life I hoped to raise them and see them grow up before my eyes.”

In shelters and camps across Gaza, Sol Band’s five members held activities for displaced children to keep their minds off what was happening. Anbar, the band’s percussionist, even taught some how to keep a beat as a drummer.

They posted videos of themselves in tents , playing the guitar and drums, with smiling children who sang along.

“The children’s interaction with the music, and how they forgot everything that is happening around them … it proved to me the importance of music in our lives and the effect it has in the Gaza Strip,” he said.

The five band members who left Gaza via Egypt to Qatar had been scheduled to perform on the first stop of their tour “The Journey Begins” at a Palestinian culture festival in Doha. Though the band has achieved fame internationally, like other Palestinians they hold travel documents that often involve complicated requirements, and at times they face outright visa rejections.

“Our passports are Palestinian, (and our) birthplace Gaza,” Anbar said. “This made it very difficult for us to get visas.”

With pending shows in Belgium and Tunisia, there is little guarantee that they will make it there. And if their visa situation is not sorted out in Qatar, the five will eventually have to return to Gaza — and an uncertain future.

“Would the plans we had before the war still happen?” asked Hamada Nasrallah, a vocalist. “We have no clear answers.”

Palestinian band escapes horrors of war but members' futures remain uncertain

They stroll Doha’s waterfront promenade and sing softly about children who are now free of pain

DOHA, Qatar — They stroll Doha’s waterfront promenade and sing softly about children who are now “birds in heaven,” flying free of the pain of the war in Gaza .

For the Palestinian group Sol Band, it seems surreal that weeks ago they were hiding from Israeli shelling .

“I just want the war to end,” said Rahaf Shamaly, the band’s main vocalist and only woman. “I want to return to Gaza, walk and clean up its streets, hug my family, and sing with the band in the place where we started from.”

Set List: Middle Kids' Faith Crisis Pt 1 Tour

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