The border between Egypt and the Gaza Strip, a 12-kilometer stretch, is a focal point of Middle Eastern geopolitics, shaped by the 1979 Egypt-Israel peace treaty and Gaza’s blockade since 2007. You can cross at one point: Rafah, used for pedestrians and limited goods. A key fact: Rafah’s frequent closures, driven by security concerns, make it a bottleneck, often leaving travelers stranded for days.
Summer heat (June-August) is intense, and winter rains can delay processing; spring or fall are better. Egypt requires visas, and Gaza’s entry, controlled by Hamas and Egypt, needs pre-approval. Carry all documents, as searches are thorough and can take hours.
Visit Al-Arish’s beaches in Egypt; Gaza’s sites, like its old port, are hard to access. Rafah’s hours vary, so check schedules and expect holiday crowds. Carry cash, as digital payments are unavailable. Stay updated on political developments, as escalations, like those in 2023-2025, can shut the crossing abruptly. Coordination with Egyptian authorities is essential for entry.