All you need to know about students/tourists trips to archaeological areas, museums

CAIRO – 23 June 2020: Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities is preparing to gradually reopen a number of archaeological sites and museums in July, while applying all the precautionary measures to combat the novel coronavirus.

Which archeological sites and museums will reopen?

Egyptian Museum in Tahrir, Haram Archeology Zone [Pyramids Archeology Zone], the Museum of Islamic Art, the Karnak and Hatshepsut Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Philae Temple, and Abu Simbel Temple.

Are there regulations set for reopening these sites?

Yes, a bundle of regulations has been set by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Will there be trips for students to these regions?

Yes, but only provided that the school or university adheres to notify archaeological sites and museums at least 48 hours prior to the visit.

Will there be a limited number of students in each trip?

Yes, provided that the number of members in each trip does not exceed 15 individuals with each supervisor, and that no more than 5 trips per day are permitted.

How many tourists are permitted inside these archaeological areas and museums?

The number of tourists per group should not exceed 25, until further notice.

Are there other regulations?

• Further regulations include sterilization of archaeological sites and museums daily before opening them for visit, under the supervision of a team of restorers, secretaries and antiquities inspectors.

• Measuring the temperature of workers and visitors daily and placing stickers on the ground to mark positions in queues to keep a safe distance between people.

• The tour guide is obligated to wear a face-mask, with an obligation to explain the use of headphones inside museums, and sterilize the headphones after each use.

• Tourism companies must provide masks for tourists and their companions, taking into account maintaining a safe distance between people during visits to museums and archaeological sites.

Is there a set number of visitors in one confined place such as a hall?

The maximum number of visitors inside open areas in museums and archeological areas is set as follows:

- Egyptian Museum in Tahrir: 200 visitors/hour.
- Other Museums: 100 visitors/hour.
- Pyramids interior or ancient cemeteries can be visited by 10 - 15 visitors at once according to its area.