Occupying a large chunk of Africa's north-east corner, Egypt stretches over more than 400,000 sq miles, the vast majority of which is desert. But the occupied 5% of the country is fantastic enough to have made it famous throughout history.

Egypt can boast world-class historical tourist attractions such as the Temples of Luxor and Abu Simbel as well, of course, as the universally famous Pyramids on the outskirts of the sprawling and seductive city of Cairo, home to more than 16 million Egyptians. But while the country has one foot in the past, the other is firmly planted in the here and now.

The fashionable Red Sea Coast and popular Sinai Peninsula resorts attract more and more foreign visitors every year, drawn by their wonderful climates, great beaches and an abundance of things to do, from fishing and snorkelling to camel rides and desert exploration.
Egypt is famous for its numerous religious carnivals and festivals, and is particularly revered by visitors for its treatment of the traditional Muslim Ramadan, which is celebrated with music and illuminated with traditional lanterns, creating a spectacular atmosphere.

An introduction wouldn’t be complete without a mention of the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, which houses more than 120,000 ancient relics spread haphazardly throughout its numerous dusty, treasure-filled rooms, with some truly wonderful artefacts to discover.