tips for travelling egypt

Egypt Travel Tips: 24 Essential Things You Should Know Before You Visit Egypt (2024)

Travelling to Egypt? This Egypt travel tips guide will give you a detailed rundown of absolutely everything you should know before visiting Egypt. Including what to wear, tipping culture, scams, and loads of other useful hacks.

Egypt is awesome. Seeing its magnificent monuments and the mighty Nile will no doubt leave a lasting impression on you.

If you’re reading this, then there’s are good chance you have either booked your flights to Egypt  or you’re seriously considering going. Either way, that’s great! You’ve come to the right place and are in good hands.

You won’t regret deciding to travel to Egypt. I know  you will have a fabulous time.

How do I know that? Because you’re here reading this article!

You’re doing the right thing by researching and arming yourself with information. This is guide covers literally everything you need to know before visiting Egypt.

This is a very honest (and sometimes brutally honest)  guide. No sugar-coating. My intention is not to be a Debbie Downer. I simply want to prepare you, so you will have a wonderful time because there won’t be any nasty surprises.

You won’t find a more comprehensive guide out there on how to prepare for and what to expect in Egypt. I’ve literally poured all my knowledge (and then some!) into this guide because just like you, I was both excited about going to Egypt but also very anxious and probably a bit paranoid too.

With that in mind, here’s everything we’ll cover. Plus a bonus tip at the end you won’t want to miss!

Looking for something in particular? Use this table of contents below to jump around using the links.

Table of Contents

Why you should go to egypt, is it safe to travel to egypt.

• Is Egypt Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
• Survival Arabic Language Guide

When Should You Go to Egypt?

What is the safest way to travel around egypt.

• Food and Upset Stomachs
• Heat and Hydration
• Vaccinations
• Haggling and Bargaining
• Nothing is free
• Cairo Airport
• Crossing the road
• Photography
• Camel Rides
• School Children
• Mosques and Religious Sites
• Fridays and Saturdays
• BONUS TIP: Fake Papyrus Scam

Karnak Temple

There’s so much to love about Egypt and nothing comes close to experiencing it in in person and not through a TV screen. The history, the temples, the smells, the heat, the sand, the Nile and the moment when your eyes finally gaze up at the Pyramids of Giza. All along the Nile you can trace the Ancient Egyptians through history as you visit their impressive and carefully decorated temples and tombs. Learning about the Ancient Egyptians, how they lived, their beliefs, inventions, and actually seeing their creations is something that will stay with you forever. Egypt is simply a marvel that should be experienced by everyone.

Yes! It’s much safer than the media may lead you to believe. Which is probably why you’re here reading about this Egypt travel tips guide

As an Aussie, I always check the Australian Smart Traveller site for travel warnings. This is the equivalent of the travel warning list by the U.S Department of State for American citizens.

While Egypt is currently listed with a Level 2 travel warning (go to page 4 ) (True as of August 19, 2018), it’s important to remember that governments will always err on the side of caution.

There are four levels used. Where Level 1 means ‘exercise normal precautions’ and Level 4 means ‘do not travel’.

As you can see, this particular warning doesn’t mean you shouldn’t travel. It just means that certain areas are better off being avoided and you just need to be more cautious when visiting them. That’s up to you to decide what you’re most comfortable with.

As of August 2018, the areas of Egypt which are flagged as dangerous are:

• The Sinai Peninsula (with the exception of travel to Sharm El-Sheikh by air) due to terrorism.
• The Western Desert due to terrorism.
• Egyptian border areas due to military zones.

The site goes on to suggest ways in which you can reduce any risk:

• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Obtain comprehensive medical insurance ( get a free quote here ) that includes medical evacuation.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
• Review the Crime and Safety Report for Egypt.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

There are other ways you can ensure your safety and help you to feel more confident with your decision to travel to Egypt. This is covered in a later section.

Because of all the negative attention Egypt has received, tourism has fallen drastically which is great for us travellers but not so great for the locals who depend on the tourist dollar.

With fewer visitors, there are also fewer scammers and smaller crowds at famous attractions. So, there is a silver lining.

On a more personal note, I felt safe during my entire Egypt trip which started in Cairo and went all the way down the Nile to Abu Simbel near the Sudan border.

If I can offer any addition peace of mind, it’s that tourist attractions are generally the safest areas to be in in Egypt as they are heavily guarded.

In addition to this, the locals who I met in hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, souks and the Telecom store where I bought my local SIM card, were all very helpful, kind, and friendly.

Is Egypt safe for solo female travellers?

Admiring the Pyramids

Yes! While Egypt is safe, as a female, you will feel a little bit uncomfortable. This feeling will come mainly in open public places such as walking down the street and in souks.

It’s in these places that you will find men loitering, either by themselves or with a couple of other men. I can only describe this as people watching as most of the time they are sitting on plastic chairs and watching the world go by, including us.

If you’re female, you will receive a lot of looks. In my experience they were harmless. If anything, it just made me feel a bit self-conscious.

Sometimes these men will try to start talking with you or guess where you’re from (they’re very good at getting this right, by the way). Somehow they can tell an Australian from an American just by looking or listening to us speak. Very clever cookies.

It’s at this point, you should do what a local Egyptian man told to me, and that is, to ignore them. Don’t even look at them. This will be enough to discourage them. It might seem like you’re being rude, but ultimately it will protect you.

I was told that the seemingly harmless conversations that start with something like guessing where you’re from, will eventually lead into being invited into their home, shop or restaurant, where they will offer you tea (a traditional welcoming custom), then after some more small talk, they will present you with something and insist you buy it. If you decline, they will get angry.

Okay, so I just painted a terrible picture, but it’s important to be aware of these things. I experienced this first-hand and didn’t know what had happened until my local guide told me that it’s a very common ploy.

Not all men are like this by the way. Just some that give the rest a bad name.

Let’s move on, shall we?

Survival Arabic Travel Phrase Language Guide

Knowing some Arabic ahead of travelling to Egypt is such a game changer. When you can show that you speak a bit of the Arabic language   and can recognise certain keywords, this will give you an extra layer of protection, especially when it comes to dealing with money.

Not only will you feel more in control, but locals will appreciate and respect your efforts to learn their language.

Here are 13 useful Egyptian Arabic words and phrases you should learn and use:

• Hello – salam / marhaban / ahlan
• Peace be with you – As-salāmu alaykum – Even though this literally means ‘peace be with you’, it is a commonly used greeting. The response would be Alaikum Salaam, meaning ‘upon you be peace’.
• Thank you – shukran
• Please – min fadlak (if you’re a male), min fadlik (if you’re a female)
• Y ou’re welcome – Afwan
• Yes – aywa, No – lā, Ok – Mashi
• How much is this? – bi-kam da. You can say, I’ll pay 100 – Enna hafda meeya. Incidentally, if you say ‘meeya meeya’ (’100, 100′) this means ‘perfect’ or ‘really good’.
• It costs too much – Da ghali awi
• I would like… – momkin
• I want – Enna iza (if you’re a female) or Enna ayez (if you’re a male). To negative the sentence, add ‘mish’. For example, ana mish iza/ayez (I don’t want)
• I don’t understand – ana mish fahem
• Go away – Em’shee
• Pyramid – Haram. Most Egyptians don’t understand the word “Pyramids”, so make sure you learn the Arabic word for them, especially if you’re taking a taxi there. Haram also means. The strict translation of the Arabic word ‘harim’ means (a prohibited place) and is from the verbal root ‘harama’ (prohibited), designated as ‘haram’ (a pyramid). ( Source )

For more Arabic phrases, get my free Arabic travel phrases guide here. 

Between June and August, the temperature in Egypt is unbearable. While you may have the luxury of quiet tourist attractions and more hotel options, to be honest, in that heat you won’t want to do anything but relax in a pool somewhere.

The best time to visit Egypt is in Spring. The weather is pleasant and the major attractions such as the Pyramids of Giza, Aswan, and Luxor are still fairly quiet.

You’ll also benefit from cheaper hotel prices, especially if travelling either side of the high season which is December to February.

Avoid traveling during Ramadan.

Cruising down the Nile at sunset

This is probably my top tip in this guide. It’s not Earth shattering, but it made all the difference to me and was the only way I could see myself travelling around Egypt and finally fulfil my childhood dream.

Go on an organised group tour!

To simplify and avoid overthinking everything, I knew that I had to travel with an organised group tour. That way I would have a local guide with me, I wouldn’t have to worry about transportation and other logistics and I could just concentrate on having a good time.

Choosing Topdeck to go to Egypt with was a no brainer, for two reasons. I’d already travelled with them before around Outback Australia and really rated my experience with them. The accommodation, transportation, guide and organisation was all spot on. Plus, I met some wonderful people that I’m still friends with.

The second reason (which might sound a bit silly) was that they are an Australian company, which I knew would put my dad’s mind at ease. I knew he would be super worried about me going. Even me living in London makes him worry!

By the way, remember that Egyptian guy I mentioned earlier who warned me about talking to strangers? That was our Topdeck tour manager, Ramzy. Top bloke!

Ramzy gave a bunch of useful tips, a language guide (on behalf of Topdeck), and was basically a kind of bodyboard who protected us from negative experiences and scared off a few scammers. This made all the difference. If you’re curious, I went on the Egypt Express tour . Book your Egypt tour here.

Now, let’s get into the niggity gritty of the everyday realities of travelling in Egypt.

Top 24 Egypt Travel Tips You Should Know Before You Visit Egypt

The tap water in Egypt is heavily chlorinated and tastes terrible. It’s okay for brushing your teeth with, but don’t drink it. Especially if you have a sensitive stomach. Buy bottled water. It’s easy to get and only costs 5 EGP (0.28 USD) for a 1-litre bottle.

2. Food and Upset Stomach

You’re in a foreign place with foreign food, diarrhoea will happen. To help prevent this, again, buy bottled water and check the seal isn’t broken. Avoid eating salads, raw vegetables, unpeeled fruit, and meat that isn’t thoroughly cooked. Don’t buy food from street vendors that don’t have running water. If you want an ice-cream, check that it hasn’t melted and been refrozen. If you do get an upset stomach, take diarrhoea relief tablets  and drink plenty of purified water  with fresh lime.

3. Heat and Hydration

Looking up at the Great Pyramid of Giza

Egypt gets hot, obviously. You’re in the desert! Dehydration, sunburn and heat exhaustion are common, especially in Upper Egypt. As your sweat evaporates you may not realise how dehydrated you are.

If you’re travelling outside of winter, then I highly recommend wearing loose-fitting clothes made of natural fibre. Keep up your fluids up by carrying around this travel bottle  and add a bit of extra salt to your food to replace salts lost in sweat. Pack electrolyte tablets to take just in case you feel unwell.

If you need further medical assistance, Egyptian pharmacists generally speak English and can be trusted to provide sound advice and help you find a doctor if needed.

4. Vaccinations

Officially, visitors to Egypt do not require any vaccinations unless you’re coming from an infected area. However, there are some vaccinations you should get or have topped up as a precaution.

Check with yourr GP what they recommend. Beyond ensuring your tetanus and polio is up to date, other common recommendations include getting vaccinations against typhoid, Hepatitis A and B, and rabies. Rabies is a problem throughout Egypt, so avoid touching stray animals such as cats, dogs, monkeys, and bats.

Money and Valuables

5. currency.

Remember the difference between 50 Piastres (top) and 50 Egyptian Pounds (bottom)

The unit of currency used in Egypt is the Egyptian pound, written £E or LE. The Egyptian pound is divided into piastres (pt). My top tip is to recognise the difference between the 50 pt against the 50 Egyptian Pound notes since they are very different in value.

Make sure that if you’re given change or are paying for something, that you’re not duped into thinking that 50 piastres (or cents) is the 50 Egyptian pounds note. This is a common scam that is used on unsuspecting tourists. When I found out about this, I made sure I kept both denominations on me so I could tell them apart. Compare the difference of the 50 pt and 50 LE in the photo above.

Another word to add your vocab is ‘baksheesh’, which means ‘tip’. You’ll hear this one a lot and it will be expected for anything and everything. Tipping locals for their services is expected and a way of life in Egypt.

Many Egyptians are paid such low salaries that receiving tips is an important part of their income. But rest assured you won’t have to fork out much.

In restaurants, it’s normal to round up the bill or give 10 per cent directly to the waiter. Smaller tips (0.25 piastres to 1 EGP) are given to the likes of lavatory attendants, porters, and anyone willing to bend the rules a bit like letting you enter a site after hours or taking a photo in a restricted area.

While the rules are often bent in Egypt, authorities are cracking down on certain things (like being able to take a photo inside King Tuts tomb) with hefty fines. Don’t risk offering money just to get your way.

7. Haggling and Bargaining

One of the best things to do in Egypt is to visit a souk market. When browsing comes to buying and you ask, bi-kam da? (How much is it?) be prepared to bargain hard or walk away. As a general rule, offer one third of the asking price and expect to pay half.

8. Nothing is free

Taking a sneaky photo at Karnak Temple without being spotted

Want to take a photo of a camel at the Pyramids? If the owner catches you look, he will probably demand to be paid.

I learned this lesson the hard way. I was at least 20 metres away when I was spotted taking a photo of a camel resting. It’s up to you if you choose to offer the owner something and if you feel like you’ve done something wrong.

A similar incident happened when I was at Philae Temple. Three men were talking amongst themselves and with the temple behind them I thought it would make a great shot. With at least 50 metres between us , I took the shot. They spotted me and came over and offered to have a group photo. By this point I knew the drill and was happy to give them a little baksheesh.

9. Belongings

It goes without saying that you should always keep your valuables with you. Decide on whether or not you feel comfortable  leaving your passport, laptop or iPad in the hotel room safe or if you’re better off keeping it on you. Using a PacSafe is a great option if you want to leave stuff in your room and there is no safe available.

If you go on a tour, don’t leave anything valuable on the bus, even if the driver is around. They can’t be responsible if something happens.

What to Wear

10. clothing.

Khan el-Khalili market in Cairo

Egypt is dusty, sandy, and dirty. Your clothes will dirty easily and you’ll be washing your hair most nights. Be prepared to rinse out your clothes each night ( this will do the trick ) or pack extra items to wear.

So, what should you wear? As a general rule, wear loose-fitting clothes that are made of breathable material.

Ladies, it’s a bit more complicated for us. While Egypt is one of the more liberal Islamic countries, it has become more conservative in recent years with many women wearing a hijab or headscarf. Female tourists aren’t obligated to wear these but you may feel more at ease doing so, especially in mosques.

As a general rule, avoid showing your chest, shoulders or legs below the knees.

At this point you’re probably looking at my photos wondering why I didn’t cover up my legs, and you’re right! I did pack longer dresses, but when Ramzy told the group that it’s ok to wear shorts and normal summer attire when visiting monuments such as the Pyramids and the temples along the Nile, I felt comfortable in taking his advice.

The only exception he made was when visiting mosques, markets or souks. Which is why you’ll see me wearing long pants in the photo above in Khan el-Khalili souk in Cairo.

If you’re a female travelling alone, place ring on your wedding finger, this will show respectability.

11. Footwear

However hot and tempting it maybe to wear flip flops, with all the dirt, sand and grime present, I recommend wearing closed toe shoes.

You’re going to be doing a lot of walking in some pretty unclean areas and the last thing you want is having dirty feet all day.

Getting Around and Transportation

You need a visa! For Americans and Aussies, and a few other countries, you can either apply in advance for an Egypt e-Visa , or queue at the border for a visa on arrival.

For most travellers, the visa will cost roughly $USD25 (single entry, valid for 30 days) or $USD35 (multi-entry). Since I travelled with Topdeck, they organised my visa once I arrived. All I had to do was bring American Dollars to pay for it. Only American Dollars or Egyptian Pounds are accepted. In addition to your visa, ensure your passport is valid six months beyond your planned date of entry.

Taxis are cheap and easy to use. Simply go to a main street and wave your hand, that’s it. They even have Uber if you prefer!  Just be sure he follows the GPS.

Before jumping in the taxi, agree on the price beforehand and stick to it. Not matter what reason they come up with. For getting around Cairo, you can expect to pay 50 to 80 EGP. (2.70 – 4.50 USD).

If you’re staying in Downtown Cairo, getting to the Pyramids should only take 30 minutes, but Cairo has very busy roads so it can take 60-90 minutes.

There are three kinds of taxis in Cairo: Black Taxis, Yellow Taxis and White Taxis. Black taxis are the oldest ones. Most are without a meter and without air-conditioning. White taxis are the modern equivalent of black taxi. They have a meter and air-conditioning. Yellow taxis are professionally run and can be booked over the phone but are the most expensive. I recommend getting a white taxi and bargaining hard.

14. Air travel

With raised safety concerns in Egypt, some airlines like British Airways are becoming more strict with what you can take in your carry-on luggage or even in your checked luggage.

I flew both ways with British Airways but they only had an issue when returning to the UK. They had very strict guidelines on what size lithium batteries were allowed on board.

A bunch of us were fuming when we were forced to leave behind expensive powerbanks which we weren’t reimbursed for or given alternatively means of keeping them. To give you an idea, this is the one I had to part with. *sniff*.

Air France, who were also flying that day but didn’t have this rule. Check with your airline ahead of travelling so you’re not caught out and left out of pocket.

15. Cairo Airport

Cairo Airport is unlike any airport you’ve experienced. Upon arrival, everything seems pretty standard until after you go through passport control.

Once you pick up your luggage and head to the exit, there will probably be a massive long queue that wraps around the luggage collection hall. Guarding the exit is one or two men who will look you up and down and decide if they want to check your luggage.

Since we were with a Topdeck escort who came to help us get a visa and take us to the hotel, he was on familiar terms with the airport staff and was able to get us through quickly.

Once we got through to the other side, our escort disappeared briefly to hand back a permit he was given in order to come and meet us inside. This is just another reason why travelling with an organised tour is great.

If, at the end of your trip you leave via Cairo Airport, be prepared for three separate security checks; one as soon as you enter the airport at the entrance, one at customs, then another at the gate. The first one is where they’ll flag any illegal objects like my poor powerbank .

16. Crossing the road

Crossing the road in Cairo is a skill. If you’ve ever been to Rome  and stared down a driver then confidently walked out into a busy street, then you’re well-prepared for Cairo.

If locals see you struggling to cross, they will either let you join their own crossing convoy or come and assist you.

If you’re still too nervous to go it alone, you have some other options for crossing the road:

• Wait for a lull in the traffic before crossing (this may take a while).
• If possible, cross where there is only 1 or 2 lanes of traffic. Don’t stop in the middle of the road between the two lanes either. Cars will drive dangerously close to you while you wait for the other lane to have an opening.
• Ask someone to join them as they cross. If they can’t understand English, simply smile and indicate to the other side of the road.
• Find a policeman to help you, there are plenty around.

17. Driving

Whilst driving from Cairo to Luxor during the night, I noticed that many drivers didn’t have their headlights on. This is totally normal and nothing to be concerned about. Egyptians believe they see better this way.

When a car is approaching, they’ll flash their lights to let them know they’re there. Some drivers may keep their fog lights on. If you’re wondering, our Topdeck driver kept his headlights on.

Cultural Tips and Other Useful Tips

18. photography.

You will have to pay a small fee to take your camera inside the Pyramids Complex

Want to take your camera with you? Be prepared to pay for it!

Whether you want to take photos or film video, every monument, temple, tomb and museum you visit will charge a small fee just to take it inside. Expect to pay anything from 50 to 100 EGP (2.70 – 5.60 USD).

I was even charged extra when guards are Philae temple saw my tripod. At first they wouldn’t let me take it at all then they came around when I said I wouldn’t use it so they charged me for another camera ticket.

Once inside, flash photography is generally forbidden and should be strictly followed.

19. Camel Rides

Camel and horse rides at the Pyramids of Giza

Going on a camel ride and taking a photo with the pyramids behind you is one of the most desired tourist souvenirs from a trip to Egypt.

If you know that going on a camel ride around the pyramids is something you definitely want to do, you may (and I hope), reconsider once you arrive and see how malnourished and badly treated the camels, and horses for that matter, are.

Egypt is a third-world country and many citizens are living in a state of desperation. As such, the men who run these camel rides prioritise feeding their families over feeding their camels. While they may have their priorities right, I can’t bring myself to support them. This has only become worse since tourism has declined.

If you do choose to take a camel ride, make sure you’re not hassled into paying more than the fair price. In order to crack down on scamming tourist signs have now been put up showing set prices for camel rides which are 50 Egyptian Pounds for 30 minutes.

Make sure you check out my guide on everything you need to know about visiting the Pyramids.

20. Toilets

Public toilets in Egypt are not the best, and that’s putting it lightly.

A trip to the loo will set you back 1 or 2 EGP and give you access to either a squat or western toilet. They generally don’t have toilet paper, are dirty, and the tap water may not be running. Bring your own toilet paper ( these flushable wipes are great ), hand sanitizer, and wipe down the seat if you must sit or get one of these.

There will usually be a hose next to the toilet, but the water will only be turned on if you pay a baksheesh.

Toilets in restaurants and hotels are usually staffed by an attendant who will give you toilet paper and turn on the tap for you. Giving a baksheesh of 25 – 50 piastres is standard.

21. School Children

You might feel famous when travelling around Egypt. At least that’s how the students in large school groups will make you think,

On countless occasions, at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the Pyramids, and Karnak Temple, young kids would run up to us asking for selfies or yell out and wave as our group walked passed. They were so excited and interested in us.

When I asked Ramzy why, he said that we are sort of celebrities to them. They watch people like us on TV who have very different lives from their own so they get excited when they see us in their country.

It’s actually very sweet. However, if you say yes to one, they’ll all come running. It’s best to politely decline from the start.

22. Mosques and Religious Sites

A beautiful Mosque on the Nile

Dressing modestly is a must when visiting mosques. Some places may ask women to cover their hair and will provide you with a headscarf. Before entering you will be required to remove your shoes and leave them with a shoe custodian (give him a baksheesh).

If you want to climb the minaret (tower), carry your shoes with the soles pressed together. It’s best to avoid visiting mosques during prayer times as to not intrude on worshippers.

23. Smoking

Everywhere you go, everyone will be smoking. Whether it’s a cigarette or shisha water-pipe, if you’re a non-smoker it can get really annoying.

Smokers are allowed to light up pretty much anywhere. The only exception is in fast-food restaurants thanks to an initiative by the environment ministry.

Restaurants have non-smoking tables, but these are almost pointless since they are surrounded by smoking tables. If you’re outside, try and stay upwind and always ask for a non-smoking room in your hotel.

24. Fridays and Saturdays

As in most Arab countries, their weekend falls on a Friday and Saturday. This means tourist attractions are much more busy on these days than the rest of the week.

I strongly recommend not visiting the Pyramids, Cairo Tower or the Egyptian Museum in Cairo on either of these days. The queues will be torture.

25. BONUS TIP: Fake Papyrus Scam

Lady writing my name in hieroglyphics on real papyrus

The Ancient Egyptians were one of the first to master the production of paper, known as papyrus. One of the nicest souvenirs you can get after a trip to Egypt is a papyrus print. But, there is a very common scam take catches out many tourists. Fake papyrus!

In many markets and other street vendors will sell fake papyrus that is actually made from banana leaf, not the papyrus plant. These will be cheaper than the real thing.

So, how do you spot a fake papyrus? Easy! First, notice how these vendors show or display their “papyrus”, it’s stiff, like cardboard and will tear when rolled which is why they’ll never roll it. Real papyrus is strong, flexible and durable and can be rolled up. Second, hold the papyrus up to the light, you should be able to see vertical and horizontal strips that make up the papyrus sheet, within these strips you should see little dark fibres or flecks. This is a good sign!

I hope this guide has helped you feel more prepared for your trip to Egypt. Remember, every country has its quirks. If things were the same as home, you wouldn’t be visiting.

I would go back to Egypt in a heartbeat. Everything I saw blew me away. It’s such an incredible country with a wonderful history. The locals are welcoming and it’s very cheap to travel to.

If you still have any questions or concerns, please reach out and leave a comment below. I’d be happy to help where I can. If not, then I wish you a wonderful trip! Support this blog and book your Egypt tour here.

Shukran for reading! 😉

Take a day trip from Cairo

• Alexandria Day Tour: See the city built by Alexander the Great
• Private Full-Day Tour of Historical Alexandria from Cairo
• Pyramids of Giza, Sakkara & Memphis: Private Tour with Lunch
• Pyramids, Museum & Bazaar Private Tour with Entrance & Lunch
• Cairo: Dinner Cruise on the Nile River with Entertainment
• Cairo: Egyptian Museum 4-Hour Private Tour with Transfer
• Cairo: 1 or 2-Hour Felucca Ride on the Nile with Transfers
• Old Cairo and Khan El Khalili Bazaar: Private Half-Day Tour
• Cairo: Best Kept Secrets Night Tour
• Plus loads more here …

Let me remind you again why Egypt is amazing and watch my Egypt vlog below.

Going to Egypt? Get my free Arabic travel phrase guide.

Like it? Pin it for later

Sources Eyewitness Egypt

Over to you!

Which of these tips did you find the most useful? Is there anything you would add? Tell me below! Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

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Michele creates language learning guides and courses for travel. What separates her from other instructors is her ability to explain complex grammar in a no-nonsense, straightforward manner using her unique 80/20 method. Get her free guide 9 reasons you’re not fluent…YET & how to fix it! Planning a trip? Learn the local language with her 80/20 method for less than the cost of eating at a tourist trap restaurant Start learning today!

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Thank you so much for all the information.

Looking forward for a trip to Egypt !!

My pleasure! Have a wonderful trip 🙂

Hi Michele, a lovely and useful article to read! Just wanted to check with you about passport safety: was it with you at all times, or you left it in your hotel room? Also – when entering Egypt have you been questioned about what, if any medication you had with you – as some over the counter meds in Europe or US can be problematic to bring into Egypt? Thank you!

Hi Jo, thank you so much and thank you for your questions. Yes, I always carried my passport on me. In fact, I do this wherever I travel. I would also ensure you have a photocopy in your luggage and a copy saved on your phone or on the cloud as an extra safety measure. When it comes to medication, I would email the airport directly for any questions you have. I was worried when flying from London to NY after I had heard that you can’t take a certain quantity of protein powder in your luggage. I emailed US customs and they said it was ok. I also kept a copy of that email on me and on my phone and was ready to show the customs officers on arrival if I had any issues. This is good practice as the problem with customs is that it’s sometimes open to interpretation and depends on how the officers feel on the day. I hope this helps 🙂 Have a wonderful trip!

Where do you recommend converting US $$ to LE and what volume of notes should I get to handle all the tipping. If at airport, is this best done before the border/customs or after? Thanks!

Hi David, before arriving, I ordered some USD so I would have enough to pay for my visa on arrival and have some money for incidentals. I had heard that they accept both USD and Egyptian Pounds at the airport. The tour company I travelled with had a guide on the ground who helped me through this process and I knew I need 100USD to pay for the visa. The rest of the time I used Egyptian Pounds. There is no tipping culture like the USA, so you can tip if you like but it’s not always necessary.

Hi David, before arriving, I ordered some USD so I would have enough to pay for my visa on arrival and have some money for incidentals. I had heard that they accept both USD and Egyptian Pounds at the airport. The tour company I travelled with had a guide on the ground who helped me through this process and I knew I need 100USD to pay for the visa. The rest of the time I used Egyptian Pounds. There is no tipping culture like the USA, so you can tip if you like but it’s not always necessary.

Hi, I have read and re-read this several times. Thank you. I’m going with a friend to Egypt early March and want to go on organised trips but I’m disabled and can only walk very slowly. In other countries I’ve just let the group go ahead and done my own thing then joined back at the coach. Is this a good idea in Egypt or can I hire an electric mobility scooter while there.

Hi Gabrielle, I’m not 100% sure how this works and it will vary depending on the accessibility of the group tour company. I would reach out to them directly for advice before booking. Best of luck and I hope it works out 🙂

Hello, thank you for your honesty. I enjoyed reading all of your tips. I am considering going in February from the 19th to the 24th. Do you think this is enough time to see everything you saw?

Hi Caroline, I went on a Top Deck tour, this is the best way to ensure you that we see everything and safely too. I highly recommend it. You can see the tour I did here http://bit.ly/EgyptExpressTour

Great info! Where did you take your photos??? THEY. ARE. FABULOUS.

Thank you SO much, Naomi. I took them during my Top Deck tour around Egypt . I highly recommend it! 🙂

This has been helpful and has eased my mind about travelling to Egypt. Going in a tour group, can’t wait ! 😀

I’m so happy to hear that. You’re very welcome, Jacinda 🙂

Thank you so much for such a wonderful article, I can’t wait to land egypt.

Thank you so much, Priya 🙂

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Egypt Travel Tips: 20 Dos & Don’ts for Your First Trip

I’ve been traveling for a while and I was not ready for Egypt – It’s chaotic, noisy, overwhelming, magical, and amazing all at once.  Regardless of the struggle, I spent a wonderful month traveling all through Egypt . From taking a Nile River Cruise to Camping in Egypt’s White Desert , Egypt has been one of my favorite countries to travel to. Here are 20 know-before-you-go essential Egypt travel tips for your next trip!

✔️ Quick Guide – Top Egypt Tips I wish I had Known

• Know That People Smoke Everywhere
• Don’t Let The Harassment Get To You
• Dress Appropriately – Especially Women
• Carry Small Bills For Baksheesh (Tips)
• Know it’s Okay to Haggle
• Be Prepared for Low-level Corruption (& Bribing)
• Carry Your Own Toilet Paper Everywhere
• Get a Local SIM card Because Wifi Doesn’t Usually Work

20 Essential Egypt Travel Tips

1. don’t be afraid of the street-crossing situation.

Learning how to cross the street was my #1 culture shock when visiting Egypt for the first time, especially in larger cities like Cairo and Alexandria. Basically, there’s bumper-to-bumper neverending traffic in the cities in Eygpt, so much so that even if it was possible for there to be a stop-light or crosswalk of some sort, it would just be covered up by cars!

In order to cross the street in Egypt you will see pedestrians just walk in front of traffic. (Yes! really!) I was absolutely dumbfounded the first time I saw a mother pushing a baby stroller just walk out in front of 100 speeding cars on a 4-lane highway, without even looking!

The expectation is that pedestrians will cross the street because they have to, and cars will stop for them because they have to. There’s no beating around the bush and politeness about it. If you stand on the side of the road and wait for traffic to stop for you so you can cross the street in Egypt, expect to be waiting a long time!

Katie’s Tips ✶

Please don’t run out in front of traffic in Egypt and then say “Katie told me to!”, that’s not what I’m saying! Use your best judgment in whatever situation you’re in, and stay safe.

2. Do Know That People Smoke Everywhere  

I was so surprised when I noticed my customs officer lighting up  a cigarette inside the airport . It’s like NYC in the 90s in Egypt. The amount of smoking was a huge Egypt culture shock when I first got there! My taxi drivers smoked, and there was an ashtray in every hotel room, it’s something as a visitor you just get used to. 

3. Do Know That Arabic Is A Very Loud Language

On one of my first days in Egypt, my driver had to call someone. Over the phone, I heard what I thought was an argument. I asked him, why are you fighting with this man? His response: “I’m not fighting??? That was my brother!!!”

Arabic, a bit like German, can sound harsh and the vocal inflections can read like shouting to English speakers. People DO shout at each other here (and if someone is bothering you a LOUD “La” (no) is what is required to get them to stop). But, if you hear two people talking loudly and emphatically in Arabic, they’re likely not upset with each other and it’s just how the language sounds to English-speaking ears.

4. Do Enjoy The Cats – They’re Everywhere

I. Love. cats. In Egypt, cats are almost as common as pigeons are in NYC. Some are street cats, and some are outdoor cats owned by people, restaurants, or stores. You can tell the difference by which ones are friendly and which are afraid of people. 

5. Don’t Get Let the Harassment and Scammers Ruin Your Day – Most Egyptians are Nice!

From everyone’s reports on the crazy harassment, I had my guard up in Egypt. In this way, I was pleasantly surprised. Outside of the airport and major tourist attractions like the Pyramids of Giza, Luxor Temple, etc, Egypt was fairly easy to travel in. Taxi drivers more or less quoted me the correct prices, and a simple no (La in Arabic) was all I needed for anyone trying to sell me things I didn’t want. Honestly, Alexandria was more relaxing to travel in than most large European cities I’ve been to. 

I even felt bad at one point, a taxi driver had misunderstood me in Alexandria and taken me to the wrong bus station. A nice man helped me explain it to him, and then helped me buy a new ticket and find a cafe. He was so helpful and took 20 minutes out of his day for me.

I had just arrived in Egypt, and assuming he was just doing it for a tip or to be a flirt I immediately said “My husband is waiting for me in Cairo” and tried to give him 50 EGP baksheesh (tip) for showing me the cafe. He actually refused the money and looked a bit hurt – I was so embarrassed, trying to tip a well-meaning stranger. 

That being said, there IS crazy aggressive harassment in main tourist areas, traveling to the Great Pyramids for example is an Egypt travel nightmare ! Try to go with a guide to the pyramids and temples, and MAKE SURE to arrange an airport pickup at Cairo Airport so you don’t have to deal with the scammy taxi drivers. 

6. Don’t Expect A Good Wifi Connection – I Had to Rely on Cellular Data Most of the Time

The wifi in Egypt, even in big cities like Alexandria and Cairo, is rough at best. Even at Starbucks, I was only able to get .2 MPBS (a decent signal is 20MBPS). Since I was trying to work on this blog while traveling, I didn’t expect to be without decent service 70% of the time in major cities. This is just a “know before you go” type of thing. Most of the time I had to use cellular data instead of relying on wifi.

you’ll need a local SIM card in Egypt because all public wifi (including at the airport) functions by sending an SMS code to an Egyptian phone number. I tried it with my US Google Voice number (that can receive SMS) but it only worked with an Egyptian SIM card.

7. Do Know That You Need A Visa!

You will need a visa to enter Egypt, but it’s not a formal visa, they didn’t even check my passport or ask for my name when I got one. You can buy it at Cairo airport right before immigration at a bank, it’s $25 USD, cash. I’ve heard some people report scams like someone saying “There’s a $2 tax” or not giving change, but I didn’t experience any of that. I gave the teller $30 USD and he gave me $5 change, in American money that I had brought with me, it was very simple. 

8. Do Dress Appropriately

🚺 what women should wear in egypt.

There’s a big fuss made out of what women can and can’t wear in Egypt for their safety. While I think Egypt is safe for women travelers, even if they’re dressed less conservatively, it’s worth mentioning that you will receive less harassment if you’re covered up like the locals are.

In places like Alexandria, where there were very few Western tourists, I would look around and be the only woman with her forearms showing in a T-shirt. But that doesn’t mean people treated me differently. Everyone was respectful and kind.

That being said, I was in long pants and a T-shirt. Not exactly scandalous clothing, but the idea that women need to be 100% covered up for Egypt is wrong. In the more touristy areas, you see lots of women wearing shorts and spaghetti strap tops, but I wouldn’t recommend it in order to receive less attention and respect the culture. 

🚺 🚹 What Everyone Should Wear In Egypt

While Egypt can get incredibly hot because it’s a desert a lot of the heat is lost at night. I recommend everyone bring a light jacket for after sundown. Also would definitely recommend closed-toed shoes, between the street animals and the donkeys you can occasionally see pulling carts (even on the highway!) there can be a bit of muck on the streets you don’t want touching your toes!

9. Don’t Bring Large Camera Equipment Or Drones – It Will Be Confiscated at the Airport!

Egypt is very strict about photos. I had to check my tiny drone at the airport upon arrival and thought that would be the worst of it, nope! If someone sees me filming somewhere, even on my phone, if it’s any sort of private property or business I will likely be told to stop. Sometimes people are just saying this, and if you slip them 10-20 EGP as a “tip” (bribe) you’ll be able to film wherever you want, but if you’re planning on traveling with any large camera equipment, i.e. gimbals & shotgun mics, consider leaving at home. 

This is because if you carry too much camera equipment, the Egyptian government might think you’re a journalist and confiscate it. You can usually get your camera equipment back when you leave Egypt, after paying a hefty fee and spending hours in the airport dealing with the overly bureaucratic and complex processes (like I had to!).

10. Do Carry Small Bills For Baksheesh (Tips/Bribes)

Baksheesh means tip, but it could also mean “bribe” depending on the context. If you want to do something you aren’t actually allowed to do, like take a photo climbing a pyramid or take a photo somewhere pictures aren’t allowed, instead of saying “stop” some guards will simply ask for a tip.

Always keep 10s and 20s (100 EGP is $6 US) on hand while traveling in Egypt because you never know when you’ll owe someone a tip, but don’t let anyone demand a tip from you.

At the Cairo airport, I used the taxi stand and the guy was a creep. I hadn’t learned how to deal with Egyptian guys yet. He tried to give me his number, and when I refused to take it he then demanded money from me as a tip (a tip for what? Making me uncomfortable?). Don’t let anyone bully you like this. A lot of people will do things like just grab your bags out of your hand and expect a tip for it afterward.

At the airport when I was leaving, there was a long line at security, and someone who worked the X-Rays asked to look at my ticket and then said: “Follow me”. The airport employee took me to a separate scanner, and then at the end asked for a tip.

I thought he was just doing his job, but apparently, he had fast-tracked me through airport security (without me asking) and I had to pay for the service! 

This is a pretty lighthearted instance of airport tipping in Egypt but some tourists have reported security officers holding their boarding passes or passports hostage for tips. While I didn’t experience anything like that, it’s something to keep an eye out for. 

👉 Note:  Scams aside, Egypt has a tipping culture. Your taxi driver, bellboys, and tour guides (basically everyone) will expect a tip.

11. Do Be Aware Of The 26% Tax & Service Fee

If you go to a nice restaurant in Egypt you’ll see on the bottom “12% service + 14% tax added” which adds up to 26% on top of the prices listed on the menu. This is about the same as NYC, where you tip 15-20% and there’s an 8% tax. This VAT also applies to hotels, on Booking.com the amount I paid online included VAT but with services like Hostelworld.com where you pay on arrival the VAT was not included in the total amount until the end.

Where this differs from America is that hotels also charge a service fee. Meaning, you will be paying 26% more for your hotel than what’s posted online. The nicer hotels will have taxes/fees wrapped into the price, but not always. Service charges are set by the government, and don’t always wind up making it to the servers. So, make sure to tip on top of the service charge if you receive good service! 

12. Do Know Some Arabic

I had gotten to a conversational level in Spanish before I left Peru, and thought I could tackle some Arabic – wrong! Arabic uses a completely different alphabet and is wildly more complicated for a native English speaker like me to learn vs. Spanish. Here are some easy words to know in Arabic:

No: La 

Yes: Naam 

Thank you: Shukran 

No Thank You: La, Shukran 

Excuse me/you’re welcome/sorry: ‘Afwan

Salam Alaikum: Literally translates to “peace be upon you” but it is used as a greeting. In response to Salam Alaikum, some will respond with the same – or shorten to just say “Salam”. 

13. Don’t Drive Yourself – It’s Dangerous and Foreigners Get Stopped by Endless Police Checkpoints

Edit: Foreigners can technically drive in Egypt as long as they have both a valid driver’s license and an International Driver’s Permit – But the need for police convoys renders this almost impossible in practice.

I do not have an International Driver’s Permit so I wouldn’t have been able to rent a car in Egypt, but it IS possible as a foreigner if you really want to! Is it advisable? Probably not! The traffic is crazy. If you’re a foreigner driving outside of Cairo you’re also likely to be not allowed through police checks (which are common!) and sent back unless you’re accompanied by a guarded traffic convoy that is dispatched from the office of tourism.

I was told that foreigners are not allowed to drive outside of Egypt, and they’re incredibly strict with foreigners on the road even if you’re not behind the wheel! We asked our driver to stop at a fruit cart on a street in Giza – Police came and told us we needed to get back in the car.

Our guide told us tourists weren’t allowed outside on common roads, just tourist sites outside of cities. I don’t know how legally true this is, but we did get told by the police (all carrying guns) that we weren’t allowed to be out of the car on a countryside road. Our guide had to finish buying the fruit for us. So, if you’re planning a desert road trip you’ll need to pick a different country!

👉 Note:  you won’t need a guide to wander the streets of Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Sharm el Sheikh, or Alexandria, i.e. places where tourists normally go. We were literally in the middle of nowhere in a rural area when the cops stopped us.

14. Do Be Prepared For Low-Level Corruption

There’s a lot of low-level (what I would call) “corruption” in the tourism industry in Egypt. If there is a place you want to visit, like Edfu temple, if you’re taking a tour (usually included with a Nile River Cruise) they will also make you take a horse and carriage ride. No Tuktuks or taxis will stop for you, and no tour guides will give you another option.

That’s because in Edfu, even though it’s not a “formal rule” you need to take a Horse and Buggy to the temple, about 50 people make their living off of selling horse and buggy rides (which cost more than taxis) to tourists visiting the temple. The money from the temples a lot of the time goes to the government, so locals are incredibly aggressive with any side hustles related to them.

This makes for a less enjoyable experience for tourists because doing things you don’t want to do (and being harassed for tips after) is frustrating, but just know it’s not necessarily your guide’s fault for adding these unpleasant experiences to the itinerary. 

15. Do Haggle ! – Usually the “Real Price” is Less Than 1/2 of What You’re Quoted Initially

In Egypt, if you ask someone how much for a hotel room or a tour it almost always depends on their mood. For example, I saw on Booking.com an okay airport hotel for something like $35 a night, but it was past check-in time so I had to call them to reserve. The guy quoted me at over $100! More than double, for the same exact room.

I told him on booking it was $35 and he said: “Okay, for you – $35 no problem”. It’s way easier to just not haggle and use services like booking.com, and Uber in Egypt if you don’t know how much things should cost.  Haggling in Egypt isn’t considered rude, and it’s actually expected.

🚩 Egypt Gift Shop Scam

As a tack-on to all of our tours we kept getting taken to the most ridiculous gift shops selling perfume, papyrus, and alabaster – all “famous” Egypt-y items, at an insane upcharge. Even bartering at these places you’re paying 1000x what the amount should be. I remember feeling pleased with myself for getting a guy to come down to $80 on an Alabaster vase at one of the places our tour guide brought us to, only to see the same thing in a market for $15. I wouldn’t even barter at these gift shops unless you don’t mind overpaying. 

16. Do Bring Your Own Toilet Paper & Carry it Everywhere You Go!

In Egypt they don’t typically use toilet paper, instead, they use a Shatafa. A Shatafa is an Arab bidet. Sometimes it’s a hose attached to the toilet, or it could just be a pipe coming up from the center. Usually, there are only Shatafas in public bathrooms and no toilet paper. So, definitely always carry your own while traveling in Egypt.

17. Don’t Worry About Police Checks – They’re Annoying, but Inevitable

Nothing really prepared me for the police checks going from Cairo to Dahab, which is on the Sinai Peninsula. Because of its geographical location, Egypt has a history of conflict in the region, and thus any transport between Cairo and the peninsula is highly regulated. I like taking overnight buses because usually I can just fall asleep and wake up at my destination – Not always the case in Egypt!

During my overnight bus ride from Cairo to Dahab, there were between 5-10 police checks . No one had said anything about this when I bought the tickets or at the station, and there was nothing like it on our overnight bus from Cairo to Luxor, it was kind of a “you need to know” thing. But because no one told me about the dozen police checks, I kept thinking “Surely, this has to be the last one” – nope!

Just as I would nod off back to sleep there would be another police check, and another, and another.

I don’t really even know what they were checking for, you just have to hold out your passport and they barely glance at it. I honestly don’t know what information the police get out of these checks since they don’t take enough time to do anything, and we didn’t have to lower our masks to confirm our identities with the passports.

Around two or three times throughout the night when the bus was stopped we had to do luggage checks – and those were crazy. Anyone who had a bag in the storage under the bus had to get out, remove their bag, and line up all the open bags in a row for armed guards to inspect. The thing is… The cops just looked at the bags. They didn’t take the time to look  through  the bags, so everyone taking out their luggage and lining it up seemed more like a waste of time than anything else. 

18. Do Be Patient – Nothing Will Run On Time & That’s Okay

Egypt runs on Egypt time. A bus from Cairo to Alexandria says it takes 2 hours max, expect it to take four. Even if you ask the bus driver who takes this trip every day he’ll say it takes two hours… and then it will take 4. The train that’s supposed to arrive at 10 AM will arrive at noon, just factor this into your trip planning. I learned it’s better to just lay back and appreciate your time in Egypt because there’s no point in getting stressed about something you can’t change!

19. Do Know That People Like To Look Like They’re Doing Their Job & Sometimes You Need a Little “Baksheesh” to Speed Things Along!

I checked my drone at customs when I first arrived at Cairo airport. Even though I was only there to check my drone, which I was declaring willingly, the customs agent also opened my big suitcase with my clothes in it. She took out my travel pillow, took ALL the stuffing out of it, put the stuffing back in, and then she took one dress out of my bag and made a big show of patting it down and checking the seams. And that was it.

I carry an 80L bag with me, but she just ( super thoroughly ) checked 2 items. You’ll see that a lot in Egypt, like with the police checks I mentioned above,  people really like to look like they’re doing their jobs.

I’ve since been told the reason the customs officer was taking forever doing absolutely useless things to my bag was that I was supposed to bribe her to speed the process along 😂.

20. Do Know That Egyptian People Are So Kind

Egypt gets a bad rap. I’m convinced this is because people come to Cairo, go to the pyramids, and then go home. The harassment is BAD at the pyramids, and I can understand why some people would go home with a bad idea of the country if that’s all they saw. But really, genuinely, every Egyptian person I met who  didn’t  work in tourism was the nicest, kindest, and most generous person you’ll ever get the honor of knowing. 

Egypt Travel Tips: Conclusion

So, there you go! I hope these Egypt Travel 20 tips arm you with everything you’ll need for your upcoming trip to Egypt. I’ve traveled all over the world and as of right now, Egypt is the most difficult country I’ve traveled in.

Between the noise and craziness of Cairo, the overshot bureaucracy at the airport, thirsty men, and the police-state legislation in the Sinai Peninsula – it was a  rough time. Truly. That being said, Egypt was also the most amazing place I’ve ever been in my entire life. The discomforts you will experience are paid back tenfold in rich history, amazing experiences, and kind people.

Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions about Egypt! I’m always here to help.  

Katie Caf, founder of Katie Caf Travel, is a seasoned travel expert who has explored over 30 countries and lived abroad in places like Egypt, Morocco, Mexico, India, Indonesia Thailand, Europe, and the USA. Her goal is to help other traveler see the world by providing first-hand accounts of what to expect on the road.

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• Africa / Ask RAI / Solo Travel / Travel Hacks / Travel tips

First Trip to Egypt? My Ultimate Guide of Insider Tips To Know BEFORE You Go

Published January 21, 2024 · Updated January 21, 2024

Before my trip to Egypt for the first time I had many questions , several of which remained unanswered. But not for too long. Because the moment I landed I set about to explore a civilisation I had been yearning to for the—longest—time .

Travelling to Egypt? You’re deliberating whether to visit Egypt in the first place? DO IT!

You’re wondering if it’s safe and whether what you’ve seen on the news about the country is a realistic representation of things on the ground.

Looking for Egypt Travel Tips? I know you want to know about the locals, their food, how to dress, and the best time to go. I also go into detail about all of this and more including currency exchange, visa requirements, tipping, and how to get around.

Yes, Egypt is open for tourism . Read on to find all of these practical tips, useful information, and much much more in this Egypt travel guide . You will also discover important things to know before traveling to Egypt ↓↓

>> Read next:  Everything you need to know about the  food in Egypt

Enough with the intros — Let’s get into the good stuff guys…

TRAVEL EGYPT BLOG: Insider travel tips to know before your trip to Egypt

IS EGYPT SAFE 202 4

“Is travel in Egypt safe?” That’s one of the most common questions I receive . I cannot say in general and can only comment on my personal experience. I felt completely safe throughout travelling in Egypt.

Walking around at any time of the day, including late at night never left me feeling uncomfortable. As mentioned, the locals are willing to assist at all times. The presence of police is seen throughout, with many checkpoints along the way.

Many travellers I met along the way shared the same sentiments, including solo female travellers. It may be a good idea to ask the hotel staff to write down its details and address for you in Arabic, as it helps if you have to get directions from people who cannot read English.

Although the country has had its fair share of troubles, most of the popular tourist spots have remained largely undisturbed. It is always a good idea to research what’s going on within the country and internationally with regard to the region before planning any travels. There is no FCO advice against travel to Cairo, Alexandria, the tourist areas along the Nile river (including Luxor, Qina, Aswan, Abu Simbel, and the Valley of the Kings), and the Red Sea resorts of Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada.

The section of the country between the Nile and the Red Sea is also considered mostly safe. Visitors travelling on roads in this region should expect to be stopped frequently at military checkpoints.

A handful of regions within the country are however volatile and should be avoided. The FCO does advise against all but essential travel to the Sahara Desert, Western Desert, to the west of the Nile, and advise against all travel to the northern half of the Sinai Peninsula, to the east of Cairo.

>> Related reading: The safest countries in Africa to visit

ARE EGYPTIANS FRIENDLY

For the most part, yes! One of the friendliest I’ve come across actually.

I was often mistaken as being local and when realising I’m a visitor, I got invited for drinks and lunch and a whole host of generous actions. Everyone was more than willing to provide assistance or direction when needed. This provided me with the opportunity into a lot of insight into daily Egyptian life & lifestyle.

I get that a lot of travellers have the opposite impression to mine above because of the touts, harassment, and money-grabbing actions of a few. I don’t know, maybe it helps that I look somewhat Middle Eastern and so don’t stick out like a sore thumb.

>> Related reading: Don’t talk to strangers

EGYPT TIME ZONE

It is two hours ahead of GMT in winter. In summer the clocks move forward one hour from the last Thursday in April to the last Thursday in September.

Speaking of summer…

WHAT MONTHS IS SUMMER IN EGYPT

Egypt is situated in the Northern hemisphere; so summer are the months of June, July, and August.

>> Must read: The best countries to visit in Africa 2024

WEATHER IN EGYPT

I travelled during winter in the months of January and February, which meant pleasant sun-filled days with a chill in the air after dark.

I hear the sun and the heat in the summer months can be terribly strong especially in the South where Aswan and Luxor are located, with the nights being warm and balmy.

Egypt Tips: How to protect yourself from the heat and sun

• When in exposed places wearing a hat is an absolute must.
• Don’t forget your sunscreen and sunglasses either.
• Be careful on hot days. Go sightseeing either early in the morning or late in the day.
• Enjoy a stroll or a felucca ride along the Nile in the evening for the cool breeze and lots of people watching.

Either season, the winds can be strong and during the early months of spring, there is a risk of severe sandstorms in Egypt, also referred to as the  khamsin . When the  khamsin  is blowing, you cannot do anything, but stay inside and wait until it has passed.

Where to find the best sunsets in Egypt and the rest of Africa? Revealed here

BEST TIME TO VISIT EGYPT

The best time to visit Egypt in general is from September/October through to April, when temperatures are at their most pleasant. This makes cultural and sightseeing a whole lot more enjoyable.

However, December, January, and Easter constitute peak tourist season, with iconic sights like the Pyramids of Giza, the Temples of Luxor, and Abu Simbel being uncomfortably crowded.

If you are planning on travelling mainly for swimming and snorkelling in the ocean, hanging on the beach working on your tan and partying the night away, then there is no reason not to head to the Red Sea resorts during the very hot months of summer where 38 – 45 degrees celcius is not unusual.

A LITTLE RESEARCH BEFORE YOUR TRIP TO EGYPT GOES A LONG WAY

If you’re traveling to Egypt without a guide, it is recommended to do a little (or a lot of) reading up about the places you intend to visit.

Without any background knowledge, you will walk around looking at how “pretty” everything is, but having no idea about the meaning or historic significance of the place you find yourself in. This is not a bad thing in and of itself, but a little knowledge make a huge difference in your experience.

EGYPT TRAVEL TIP WHEN BOOKING FLIGHTS

Check out  Egypt Air . Being the national carrier airline, there are often good prices, relatively speaking, for travel within the country. Whether booking within or out of the country, put your country of origin as Egypt = this brings fares down.

CAN YOU DRINK THE WATER IN EGYPT

The tap water throughout the country is not dangerous to drink and those living in the country for an extended period of time have no problems with it.

However, it is highly chlorinated and hard tasting for those who are not use to it. It is recommended to stick to bottled water, which is both readily available and cheap. The tap water is fine when brushing your teeth.

MONEY OF EGYPT CURRENCY

Egypt Tip: You need to know that cash is king.

Egyptian Pounds (LE) note comes in denominations of 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, and 1. There is also a 50-cent note and if you’re not vigilant, this can get confusing.

Euros, dollars and sterling are often accepted as payment, but your budget will go much further if you change it to Egyptian pounds. Don’t change your money before you arrive in Egypt, as you’d get a better rate once inside. The best places to exchange money are the many currency exchange shops or the bank.

Credit cards are another option of spending money. Most tourist hotels will accept major credit cards, with Visa and MasterCard having the widest acceptance. American Express is less commonly accepted while Diner’s Club is rarely accepted in Egypt.

HOW MUCH MONEY CAN YOU BRING INTO OR TAKE OUT OF EGYPT

There’s a 5,000 cash limit of Egyptian pounds that you are allowed to bring in or take out of Egypt. There is no limit to the amount of foreign currency that you may bring in, but you must declare all amounts exceeding US$10,000 (or equivalent) on arrival.

IS IT CHEAP TO TRAVEL IN EGYPT IN 202 4

Yes! Because of the devaluation in the Egyptian pound in recent years, the currency gap has widened making it a very affordable travel destination .

Is Egypt the richest country in Africa ? Click the link to check the full list.

WHAT IS THE MOST FAMOUS THING TO SEE IN EGYPT

Well, most people are initially drawn to the country and travel with intent to see the great Pyramids of Giza, and with good reason –> it is an incredible sight.

But there is so much more to visiting Egypt than just the pyramids, the likes of Luxor’s Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings, Abu Simbel, Siwa oasis, the White Desert, Aswan, and the Egyptian museum amongst others.

More details to follow in an upcoming blog post.

In the mean time check out this list of beautiful landmarks in Africa that should be seen at least once in your lifetime.

INTERNET IN EGYPT – HOW TO STAY CONNECTED

Another important Egypt tip: Pick up a local SIM card for your mobile as soon as you arrive.

This helps with staying in touch with locals in the country and friends internationally, browsing the web, updating your Instagram , checking directions or for making calls to your hotel or guide.

BEST SIM CARD FOR EGYPT

You  can purchase a sim card  either at the  airport on arrival , or within the city itself at one of the many kiosks and shops around. You need to show your passport and payment is best in Egyptian pounds.

The four main service providers to choose from are Orange, Vodaphone, WE, and Etisalat. All provide decent coverage in the tourist areas, so choice would be dependant on the price of particular data packages at the time. Do a quick comparison and see what works out best.

It takes a couple minutes to complete the procedure and a couple more to activate the card. Make sure your phone is unlocked to use other networks and that the sim is activated before leaving the store.

EGYPT ENTRY VISA REQUIREMENTS

There is a good possibility that you require a visa to enter the country. Be sure to confirm this with your embassy.

Certain nationalities are able to obtain an e-visa online at the official website or can obtain a renewable single-entry 30-day tourist visa on arrival at Egyptian airports. The fee is $25 or £20 and payment can be made in US dollar, Sterling or Euros — notes only, no card is accepted. A multiple entry visa is also obtainable for $60.

Look for the “bank” kiosk in the arrival hall and purchase your visa here and not from the reps alongside as they charge more for the same service.

>> Related reading:

• Which countries can you visit on a Schengen visa
• How to apply for a Sri Lankan visa

BOOKING ACCOMMODATION ONLINE IN EGYPT

There is often a different quoted price for Egyptians and residents and foreigners and visitors. Be mindful of this when on booking websites particularly when comparing options on price.

SOLO FEMALE TRAVELERS IN EGYPT TRAVEL ADVICE

Traveling as a solo female in Egypt brings its own set of challenges.

Some tips for solo female travelers to make your travel in Egypt that much more pleasant:

– Be conservative in your dressing to avoid unwanted attention.

– Do not give a lot of personal details about yourself.

– If the attention of young men is annoying you so you can pretend not to have heard the comments, and just walk on.

– Avoid eye contact when not interested.

– Do not be over friendly as this may be interpreted wrongly especially since the average Egyptian women would not behave in this way.

– See advise about dress code below.

I do find this behaviour particularly rude, but I guess each situation warrants its own sort of action when necessary.

EGYPT TRAVEL ADAPTER PLUG

Egypt operates on a standard 220V supply voltage and 50Hz . For those in countries using 120 volts and whose device can’t handle dual voltage will need a suitable power converter while travelling in the country. There are two associated plug types in the country. Plug type C is the plug that has two round pins and plug type F is the plug that has two round pins with two earth clips on the side.

More Egypt Tips ⇓

HOW TO GET AROUND IN EGYPT

a) Between cities you have the option of plane, train, bus or car.

b) Within each city:

local minibus taxi horse walking cycle

I used all of these options and didn’t encounter a problem. Except when using an official taxi, which mistakenly took me across Cairo in the wrong direction, leading to a whole lot of asking around and stress, following which I asked him to drop me off where he had initially picked me up.

In Egypt, traditional taxis are black and yellow and lack the taxi sign on top of the roof. They are bountiful in large and small cities alike. When hailing a taxi, you simply need to hold your hand out. The fare is negotiated before the trip begins, after you tell the driver where you are travelling.

Egypt Tips: Make sure to agree on a price before you get going and confirm details such as the quoted price being a total or per person and in Egyptian Pounds and not Dollars or Sterling.

Obviously, locals pay considerably less than you will. Ask for what you feel is a fair price. You can ask your hotel staff for approximate taxi costs between various places.

There are online transport options using a smartphone app. I would recommend Careem app in addition to Uber. Ousta is another option. A major advantage of using an online transportation app is that it uses fixed prices, which means you won’t get quoted an inflated price simply because you are a foreigner.

There is also the Nile cruise, the most popular being the section between Luxor and Aswan.

TRAFFIC AND DRIVING IN EGYPT

The traffic and driving conditions may come as a shock depending on where in the world you come from.

Traffic is really heavy especially in Cairo and the way most people drive is outside all international standards. But relax, because for the most part, the driver is used to this and knows what he is doing. Vehicles are often old and in poor condition, so do not worry if your taxi is in a bad state, it is fairly normal.

As a result, travel time normally takes longer that you would imagine so allow extra time, just in case.

TIPPING IN EGYPT

Another important Egypt tip to note is to please(!) always tip in local currency – Egyptian Pounds (LE).

It’s strongly recommended that no one tip with any foreign coins. These can’t be used or exchanged into something that the locals can use so it essentially is useless. If you really don’t have local currency, than foreign notes is an acceptable alternative.

It is worth remembering when travelling in Egypt that tipping is very much a way of life and a cultural thing not only in the tourist industry, but also all over the country and becomes expected.

Most Egyptian workers including restaurants staff, mosque keepers, restroom workers, room cleaners, guides, drivers, and others receive rather low monthly wages, and they are depending very much on tips.

EGYPT WEEKEND – IS FRIDAY A WORKDAY

The workweek is Sunday to Thursday and hence Friday and Saturday constitute the weekend, with Friday being the main day off for the population.

DRY. DUSTY. DESERT.

There can be a lot of dust around so it is recommended to carry a scarf around or something that would be able to cover your mouth and eyes in times of need. Wearing contact lenses might be intolerable in these conditions.

AVOID PHARAOH’S REVENGE EGYPT STOMACH BUG

To avoid an upset stomach that plagues so many visitors to Egypt, remember to stay hydrated at all times. Drink Drink Drink! This will help to flush the system. Making use of a hand sanitiser is also a good habit.

SMOKING CULTURE IN EGYPT

It seems that smoking, even if there is a “no smoking” sign is fair game despite the unpleasantness, so be prepared for that.

EGYPTIAN CUISINE

Egyptian food has been influenced throughout history, from the Ottomans and the Greeks to the Lebanese and Persians. It shares similarities with the food of the Eastern Mediterranean region, such as falafel, shwarma, rice-stuffed vegetables and kofta.

However, Egyptian cuisine maintains its uniqueness with rice and bread remaining staple foods.

Examples of traditional Egyptian dishes:

• My personal favourite, babaghanoug — paste of aubergines mashed with tahina
• The national dish fuul medames — mashed creamy fava beans
• Koushari — lentils, pasta, rice and chickpeas
• Molokhiya — a spinach-like vegetable
• Shai — mint tea

>> Be sure to check out this detailed post about Egyptian food . What to expect and the best dishes to try.

MAIN RELIGION OF EGYPT

The majority of the country is Muslim.

Bear this in mind when packing and deciding on your everyday attire while travelling through the country. Also take note of when in the year the Holy month of Ramadaan will fall, as this will affect your travels and behaviour somewhat.

There are also many Christians in Egypt, making up less than 10% of the population, with the majority belonging to the Coptic Orthodox Church, which was the dominant religion in Egypt before Islam.

DRESS CODE EGYPT TIPS

Egypt is naturally conservative including its dress code and it is respectful to obey this code with fair consideration for the local culture or customs . It is advisable to dress sensibly and modestly.

– To avoid any unwanted attention and creating a bad impression – It is more respectful to any Egyptians and their families – You receive a much better welcome in Egypt if you dress modestly

Women do not need to cover their head in Egypt, but it is recommended to dress modestly, wearing pants or long skirts, long sleeves, and loose clothes avoiding shorts and low or tight tops. Men can get away with a little less clothing such as wearing shorts.

Wearing comfortable shoes is a must. You will spend a large part of your time walking around and climbing stairs.

ADDITIONAL SERVICE CHARGES AT RESTAURANTS

Take note that some restaurants add a tax and service charge to the final bill, which can be quite high at times so do take note of this to avoid any nasty surprises.

HOTEL BREAKFAST BOXES

Yes, breakfast boxes are a thing.

If you’re leaving the hotel for a tour before the allocated breakfast time and won’t make it back in time, get the hotel to pack breakfast to take on the go. Most will be more than happy to oblige.

HOTEL RECEPTION MUSIC

Ok, so not an Egypt tip per say, but speaking of hotels, they low-key love playing Kenny G songs in the reception area. Ha! They should play some popular African songs instead.

DO YOU NEED VACCINATIONS FOR EGYPT

No vaccinations are compulsory before visiting Egypt, but Hepatitis A and typhoid are recommended.

Proof of valid health insurance is also required.

What about Covid-19 entry restrictions?

The government of Egypt requires all travellers into Egypt to provide either: – a printed negative PCR or antigen test certificate. The test must be taken less than 72 hours prior to flight departure. Travellers from certain regions are permitted to provide the test certificate taken up to 96 hours before the flight departure time. or – a COVID-19 vaccine certificate containing a QR code. All arrivals into Egypt will have their temperature checked and are required to provide their contact details on the Public Health Card passenger locator form. Unvaccinated passengers with direct flights to these airports in Egypt have the option to take a PCR test on arrival rather than before departure. These passengers will have to remain in their hotel room until they receive the result within 12 to 24 hours. A 14-day self-isolation is mandatory in the case of a positive test result.

• Hurghada (HRG)
• Marsa Alam (RMF)
• Sharm El Sheikh (SSH)

❗ Update: All of Egypt’s COVID-19 entry restrictions have been lifted on June 17, 2022 . As a result: · No proof of negative pre-departure COVID-19 test results are required. · No proof of vaccination is required to enter Egypt. Yeaahhhh!

MALARIA IN EGYPT

Do you need malaria tablets?

Malaria tablets are generally not required as malaria is not present in the tourist destinations.

However, if you’re travelling in the summer season, there will still be lots of mosquitoes around, so you should carry a good insect repellent along to avoid getting bitten.

LANGUAGE AND COMMUNICATION IN EGYPT

Arabic is the official language. Arabic came to Egypt in the 7th century, and Egyptian Arabic has become the modern spoken language of the Egyptians and is understood by almost all Egyptians.

You should still get by on English without a problem. But it is recommended to learn a few Arabic words . It acts as an icebreaker and is also useful while travelling off the tourist path.

ARE THE PRICES OF GOODS IN ENGLISH OR ARABIC

In the main tourist centres, prices will be marked in both English and Arabic. As soon as you leave the tourist trail the main form of communication including the marking of goods and services is Arabic.

Learning to recognise Arabic numbers is a huge plus. Making a mental or written note of the following should make your travels through Egypt that much easier:

AGGRESSIVE TOUTS IN EGYPT 

As mentioned, I hardly faced much harassment and a firm no thank you did the trick. However, this is not always the case with other travellers.

All visitors to Egypt, whether female or male, receive a great deal of attention or hassle from some locals wanting to sell goods or a tour. This is by far not the majority of locals, who are real friendly, but only a handful that you may come across here and there.

MOST COMMON EGYPT TOURIST SCAMS

You find tourist scams the world over like these common ones in China .

Heres what to be on the lookout for in Egypt:

Watch out for those who approach you telling you about a big market open today only (“you’re very lucky”) or for those who want to take you in their taxi for a tour.

Papyrus stores, perfume stores, and carpet stores all charge ludicrous prices.  They will sit you down giving you tea while getting into a whole explanation about the history and quality of the work. If you want to buy things go to the bazaar and enjoy it there.

Don’t take camel rides when there is no one around.  People have been trekked into the desert and extorted.

I would also advise against horseback riding at the Giza Pyramids as the horses are not well looked after.

You should assess a few travel agents before settling on your chosen one based on price, quality of hotels, guides, and reviews.

FLIGHT HAND LUGGAGE RESTRICTIONS

There are no restrictions on flights to Egypt, according to the UK Government website, “phones, laptops, and tablets larger than 16.0cm x 9.3cm x 1.5cm not allowed in the cabin on flights to the UK from Turkey, Lebanon, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Tunisia.”

I would advise to keep laptops, tablets, and the like in your hand luggage until after the first scanners after which you should place them all into your checked luggage before you check your bags in. Do not carry power banks and spare batteries in your hand luggage. You will go through another set of scanners and more security checks before you arrive at the departure gate. If anything that should not be in hand luggage is found, it will be confiscated.

Correct at time of publishing. Do confirm with your airline before travelling.

>> Related reading: Essential tips for flying and what NOT to do on a plane

MALE DOMINATED SERVICE INDUSTRY

The service industry is for the most part, male dominated and I didn’t notice a lot of females around. Actually, there was not a whole lot of interaction with females on a whole during my travels in Egypt.

CITIES IN EGYPT AREA CODE

Alexandria 03 Aswan 097 Cairo 02 Hurghada 065 Sharm el Sheikh 069 Mansoura 050 Qena 096 Menia 086 Port Said 066 Taba 069 Ismailia 064 Luxor 095

BRINGING MEDICATION INTO EGYPT

Some prescribed and over the counter medicines are considered controlled substances in Egypt and can’t be brought into the country without permission or the required documentation. An example of this is Tramadol, which is used as a recreational drug in Egypt.

Be sure to confirm this with your doctor. What you will need is an official letter specifying that the medication you are taking with to Egypt is for your personal use only, the quantity you will be carrying, and details of your health condition.

I think that about covers pretty much all the travel tips Egypt and everything you need to know for your first trip to this amazing African country .

If you have any other questions or concerns let me know and I’ll be happy to help out.

If you’ve found this information helpful be sure to share this post.

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16 Responses

• Comments 13
• Pingbacks 3

I have been surfing online more than three hours lately, but I by no means discovered any fascinating article like yours. It is beautiful worth sufficient for me. In my opinion, if all site owners and bloggers made good content as you did, the net might be much more helpful than ever before.

Thank you so much!

Ah thank you so much. Appreciate this!

Keep on working, great job!

Would like to know travellers alliwed to bring small packs like 1kg uncooked rice to Egypt? Thanks you.

Hey I know interested fact about this. Egypt is located in Africa. Egypt is considered to be a developing nation. The developmental stage of a nation is determined by a number of factors including, but not limited to, economic prosperity, life expectancy, income equality, and quality of life. it’s true?

I would like to thank you for the efforts you have put in writing this article. I am planning on traveling to Egypt (Cairo, Luxor, Aswan) and these Travel tips about Egypt is helful and most welcome. Shukran!

Thank you for your useful information. Do you happen to know whether you can still get a visa on arrival (Cairo)? Can you get a COVID Test at the airport before leaving Egypt? Also, is it possible and advisable to go to Siwa Oasis?

Great Post!!! I truly believe that there is much more to explore new places. The world has incredible beauty which makes us visit new places for sure.

I agree! Thanks for reading

I am struggling on taking or not taking my camera. What was your experience with photography in Egypt?

If you worried about the safety of your camera, you don’t need to as Egypt is safe. As long as you main common safety practices, as you would anywhere in the world. You will get some beautiful photos all across Egypt, so you don’t want to miss out on this opportunity. If you’re happy with the quality of your photos on your camera, then this could be an alternative to carrying your camera. If you’re traveling in the desert, just make sure that your camera is well protected from the sand and dust.

[…] If you’re looking for more travel preparation tips, check out this biggie about what to know before travelling to Egypt.  […]

[…] to 2006, the weekend fell on a Thursday and Friday as is customary with many muslim countries around the world. From 2006, this has been changed by Persian Gulf countries including the UAE to Friday and […]

[…] Egypt […]

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14 EGYPT TIPS for FIRST TIMERS (How to Save Time, Money, and Be Safe)

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Traveling in Egypt can be challenging, even for the most seasoned nomad. There’s so much to know about Egypt and consider before planning a trip, however, with these 14 Egypt tips for first timers, you will make the most of your time, avoid possible challenges, and ensure you have a safe and enjoyable stay in Egypt.

Learn More About Egypt: 

Perfect 2-Day Itinerary in Luxor, Egypt (7 Things You Can’t Miss)

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• 1. 14 Egypt Tips for First Timers
• 1.1. Is It Safe to Travel to Egypt
• 1.2. When Should You Go to Egypt
• 1.3. Will You Need a Visa to Travel to Egypt
• 1.4. Should You Hire a Tour Company
• 1.5. What Should You Wear in Egypt
• 1.6. Is It Safe to Drink Tap Water
• 1.7. What You Need to Know About Tipping in Egypt
• 1.8. Do You Need to Exchange Money When Traveling in Egypt
• 1.9. How to Get Around in Egypt
• 1.10. Can You Fly a Drone in Egypt
• 1.11. How to Bargain in Egypt
• 1.12. Should You Go on a Camel Ride
• 1.13. How to Use a Public Toilet in Egypt
• 1.14. What to See in Egypt for First-Time Visit
• 2. Intrepid Scout's Egypt Tips for First Timers

14 Egypt Tips for First Timers

Is it safe to travel to egypt.

Safety is the number one concern when deciding whether to travel to Egypt or not.

I understand it because, for many years, Egypt remained on my list of places to visit, however, it was not a safe place to travel to due to political instability and terrorism. It was not until 2019 that I started looking at the possibility of visiting Egypt and finally, I decided to travel to Egypt that year.

I have to honestly say that I felt safe during my entire trip to Egypt which started in Cairo and went all the way down the Nile to Abu Simbel near the Sudan border.

During my visit to Egypt in 2019/2020, I saw police and military at all major tourist attractions. While traveling to the Temples of Abu Simbel, we had to stop at several security checkpoints. And, every time I entered my hotel or visited a popular tourist site, I had to go through metal detectors. All these measures were in place to protect tourists and make them feel safe.

Tourism in Egypt used to be one of the leading sources of income, crucial to Egypt’s economy.

• At its peak in 2010 , the sector employed about 12% of the workforce of Egypt, serving approximately 14.7 million visitors to Egypt, and providing revenues of nearly $12.5 billion.
• Between 2015-2016 that revenue dropped to $3.3 billion due to political unrest and terrorism.
• In 2017 , Bloomberg said Egypt has “shed its years of social and political unrest” and made the top 20 list of 2017 travel destinations.
• Egypt was on the path of recovery until the Covid epidemic. In 2020 , Egypt’s tourism revenue dropped by about 70% to $4 billion, reducing tourist arrivals to 3.5 million from 13.1 million in 2019.  Egypt’s revenues from tourism for the months of the 2020-2021 fiscal year plunged by 67.4%.

When Should You Go to Egypt

• The best time to visit Egypt is spring or fall . About mid-March until mid-May and mid-September until mid-November are the best times to travel to Egypt. In these transition months, temperatures are mild and the weather is pleasant. Spring and fall are the most perfect times of the year to visit Egypt.
• Summers (July, and August) are unbearably hot. Temperatures can range from 104F to 130F. By all means, avoid traveling to Egypt in the summer months.
• Winter months can be cool (especially at night, down to 50F), but temperatures during the day should be nice and perfect for exploring Egypt. December and January are the most popular months for travel to Egypt, so expect crowds at all popular destinations in Egypt.

Will You Need a Visa to Travel to Egypt

Most foreign visitors who want to visit Egypt need a visa as well as a valid passport.

• The best and simplest way to obtain a visa is to apply for an e-Visa . Currently around 150 countries can apply for an electronic visa for Egypt through a quick online application. Once approved, the e-Visa will be electronically linked to the passport and a copy will also be sent via email . You will need to print it and present it to immigration control upon your arrival in Egypt. An Egypt tourist e-Visa allows a total stay of 30 days per entry.
• You can also obtain a visa on arrival at any immigration checkpoint. In the Cairo International Airport, right before the passport control, there is a bank window where you can purchase a visa on arrival. It costs USD 25 and you need to pay in cash. Next, take your visa and passport to passport control where the immigration officer will add the visa to your passport and stamp it.

Should You Hire a Tour Company

I recommend hiring a reputable travel company that can assist you with navigating from one attraction to the next while you are visiting Egypt. I want to caution you against self-driving in Egypt due to heavy and unpredictable traffic as well as poor road conditions.

I am not recommending using public transportation either. You will find bus systems in larger cities like Cairo and Alexandria. However, buses are not the easiest mode of transport for visitors in Egypt. First of all, the bus numbers are displayed in Arabic. Second, they are overcrowded and uncomfortable.

In my opinion, taxis are the most efficient way to get around in Egypt.

I collaborated with Your Egypt Tours to help me put together an itinerary for Egypt. They supplied drivers and guides, as well as booked a cruise on River Nile for me. On the other hand, I researched and booked all the hotels and flights. Honestly, I recommend them and have to say that they have done a great job! Just to clarify, I am not getting paid for recommending them.

What Should You Wear in Egypt

Egypt is a conservative Muslim country . However, Egypt is used to foreign visitors and there are no set rules as far as the dress code. But, my recommendation is to be modest and respectful of Egypt’s religion and culture.

With that being the case, I would suggest wearing short or long sleeve shirts and loose or baggy-fitting pants during the cooler times of the year.

During the summer months, when temperatures soar above 100F, it is just fine to wear longer shorts and short sleeve shirts. I have seen many female travelers wear loose-fitting dresses and capris as well.

Simply put, be comfortable and yet be modest !

You will see the majority of Egyptian women wearing headscarves, and many women keep themselves completely covered. It is not required that you comply with these rules at all unless you are visiting a mosque – in that case, you do need to respect the fact that you are entering a religious building and it is advisable that you cover up. I usually carry a scarf wherever I travel and I have it handy.

As a female traveler to Egypt, I stay away from sleeveless or strapless tops and dresses, and shorts out of the respect for Egyptian culture and religion.

If you are planning on going on the River Nile cruise or visiting any of the resorts while in Egypt, you will find a very different and relaxed atmosphere with tourists wearing western summer attires – sleeveless tops, shorts, bathing suits, short dresses, etc.

Is It Safe to Drink Tap Water

It is not fun to get sick while you are traveling and I got very sick several times while traveling to different destinations around the world. So, I tend to stay super cautious when it comes to drinking tap water, consuming uncooked foods, or consuming food in general. While food and water might be safe for locals whose systems are used to them but can create quite gastrointestinal havoc for visitors.

The bottom line, it is not safe to drink tap water, brush your teeth with tap water in Egypt, or eat uncooked foods that might have been rinsed with tap water. Tap water in Egypt can contain harmful organisms such as viruses and bacteria that could make you sick if you ingested them.

Buy bottled water in Egypt and check that the seal is not broken. Drink bottled water, brush and rinse your teeth with bottled water, and above all stay away from any uncooked foods like salads, raw vegetables, unpeeled fruit, and meat that isn’t thoroughly cooked.

If you do get an upset stomach, take diarrhea relief tablets  and drink plenty of  purified water .

Supposedly, it is safe to use tap water in Cairo since it is heavily chlorinated, but, I was told, it tastes awful and requires some getting used to it. I would not recommend it either since a lot of chlorine in the water might upset your digestive system.

What You Need to Know About Tipping in Egypt

Tipping is a tradition in Egypt and while traveling in Egypt be prepared to tip a lot. By tipping, you are showing your gratitude for the services that were provided to you.

How much should you tip? It is recommended that you tip at least 5-10% of the total cost of the service.

I tipped in US Dollars and before traveling to Egypt, I prepared envelopes with tips for drivers, guides, porters, the River Nile Cruise staff, and the list goes on and on.

Following are some guidelines that you can follow:

• Restaurant – it is usual to leave between 5 and 10% of the tip amount, in addition to the service charges.
• Hotel – normally, $1-$3 usually left with the doorman and other employees
• Hotel Bags – between 10 and 20 Egyptian pounds.
• Tour Guide and Driver – a standard tip for the tour guide is $30-$50 per person for the trip and for the driver $10-$20.
• Toilet Attendants – 5 Egyptian pounds is appropriate
• Guardians at archaeological sites – 10 Egyptian pounds are suitable for a particular extra service. The tip is only to be given if you have formulated your agreement and accepted or requested this service, for example: taking your picture.

Also, just want you to be aware that if someone offers to take your picture, they are not doing it for free. They will want to be paid. So, be prepared to tip them for their service. If you see a photogenically positioned camel in front of the pyramids, be aware that if you snap a picture of the camel, then you will have to pay the owner of that camel.

What You Need to Know About Tipping in Egypt /  Egypt Tips for First Timers

Egypt Tips for First Timers

Do You Need to Exchange Money When Traveling in Egypt

You do not need to exchange a lot of money while traveling in Egypt. Exchange just enough money to cover some of the tips and have some on hand.

Other than that, US Dollars are widely accepted and a preferred method of payment and tipping. Also, credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.

If you need to exchange money, then there are plenty of ATM’s pretty much every place that tourists visit.

How to Get Around in Egypt

• My recommendation is to collaborate with a reputable tour company . They can provide drivers and tour guides and you can book flights and hotels. Or, they can do it all. Honestly, having drivers and tour guides scheduled for each day of your trip is the most efficient way to get around in Egypt.
• Another option is to j oin a bus tour that stops at all major attractions in each location you plan to explore. It is probably one of the least expensive options. It does not give you much flexibility and you are stuck with a large group of visitors.
• Another pretty efficient option is to just book a taxi and head to all the major attractions You will always be able to hire a guide right at the entrance.
• I do not recommend renting a car in Egypt . The roads are in poor condition, the traffic is incredible (Cairo or Luxor), and traffic rules do not exist. On the roads outside the cities, there are security checkpoints, and you need to be able to communicate with the officers.

Can You Fly a Drone in Egypt

To bring a drone to Egypt and fly it, you need to receive permission from the country’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

If you do not have documentation of authorization, your drone will be confiscated at customs.

However, it’s difficult to get permission to fly a drone from the CAA.

How to Bargain in Egypt

Bargaining or haggling is an integral part of the Egyptian shopping experience and should be considered more like a fun game, rather than a serious battle.

Here are a few tips:

• First of all, ask the seller for the price of an item you are interested in.
• Most sellers will start their offer at some exorbitant price. My suggestion is to counteroffer with one-third of the asking price.
• The seller will appear to be appalled by your offer and will ridicule it. Stay calm and just keep smiling. Remember, it is all a game and you should have fun.
• If the seller is not willing to lower the price, then pretend you are no longer interested in the item and walk away.
• I can assure you that you will be followed and offered a lower price.
• Don’t feel guilty about getting the item at a lower price. It is a process and the seller is still making a profit.

Make Sure to Read: 

How to Visit Khan el-Khalili Bazaar in Cairo

Busy Market in Cairo /  Egypt Tips for First Timers

Should You Go on a Camel Ride

Should you go on a camel ride at the Pyramids of Giza ? My answer is yes! YES!

Going on a camel ride and taking a photo with the pyramids behind you is one of the most touristy things to do in Egypt, however, it is a tradition that everyone coming to Egypt needs to do.

How much does it cost to go on a camel ride at the Pyramids of Giza? For a 30-minute camel ride, the average price is 300 EGP, which is about $20 USD.

However, this price can vary a lot. You will need to negotiate the price, time, distance, etc with the camel owner. Then, the camel handler will take you to several good photo locations and take your pictures. You will need to tip the camel handler at the end of the ride as well.

Pyramids of Giza / Egypt Tips for First Timers

How to Use a Public Toilet in Egypt

Public toilets in Egypt are not maintained to the best standard. Here are a few suggestions about how to use public toilets in Egypt:

• Public toilets in Egypt are usually staffed by a toilet attendant . So, make sure to leave a tip for the attendant before leaving the restroom. They might hand you a piece of toilet paper and turn on the facet, but it is not a rule.
• Bring your own toilet paper.
• The water faucet might not be working. There might not be any soap. Make sure to bring hand sanitizer with you.
• Be prepared that the restroom might have only ‘squat’ toilets. However, I have seen both “squat” and “sit down” toilets.

What to See in Egypt for First-Time Visit

From the incomparable pyramids, majestic sands of the Sahara, breathtaking Temples of Abu Simbel, and the beauty of the River Nile, the list of places to visit in Egypt goes on and on.

While you are working on your Egypt itinerary, make sure not to miss these must-see places:

• Pyramids of Giza

I am sure you heard of the  Seven Wonders of the Ancient World . The Great Pyramid of Giza is the only Wonder of the Ancient World that is still in existence.

Built during the Old Kingdom (c. 2686-2181 BC), specifically, during the reign of the Fourth Dynasty kings, more than  4,000 years ago , the Great Pyramids of Giza give us a glimpse into Egypt’s past.

For me, the Great Pyramids of Giza are the most  magnificent structures  and the most  iconic sight in the world. Both, the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx of Giza have been on my list of places to explore for the longest time.

Learn More About Pyramids of Giza: 

What to See at the Pyramids of Giza (10 Things You Can’t-Miss)

How to Visit the Pyramids of Giza (Things to Know Before You Visit)

• Valley of the Kings in Luxor

For a period of nearly 500 years, from the 16th to the 11th century BC, known as the New Kingdom of Ancient Egypt,  the Valley of the Kings was the burial ground  for pharaohs such as Tutankhamun, Seti I, and Ramses II, as well as queens, high priests, and other elites of the 18th, 19th, and 20th dynasties.

There are some 65 magnificent royal tombs, that have been discovered so far.

Nowadays, their contents are gone. However, you can still see the amazing wall and ceiling decorations with religious images and texts from the  netherworld  books, designed to guide the pharaohs in their journey to the afterlife.

Learn More About Valley of the Kings 

7 Best Tombs to Visit in the Valley of the Kings (Map+Photos+Useful Tips)

12 Practical Tips for First Visit to Valley of the Kings

• The Temples of Abu Simbel 

One of the must-see sights when visiting Egypt is the  Abu Simbel Temple Complex . However, some advance planning is advisable to enjoy this incredible place to its fullest. Here is everything you need to know about how to visit Abu Simbel:

Learn More About Abu Simbel: 

How to Visit Abu Simbel: Everything You Need to Know to Plan Your Visit 

Inside the Great Temple of Abu Simbel / Egypt Tips for First Timers

• Karnak and Luxor Temples in Luxor

Karnak is a massive Ancient Egyptian temple complex. At the heart of it lies the Temple of Amun, dedicated to the king of the gods. In addition, there are a number of smaller temples, chapels, and sanctuaries dedicated to other deities. Moreover, there are endless halls, a sacred lake, pylons, colossi, and obelisks.

Luxor Temple is one of the most beautiful temples located on the East Bank of the River Nile in Luxor.

Luxor and Karnak Temples need to be on your bucket list of places to visit.

Learn More Karnak and Luxor Temples in Luxor: 

How to Visit Karnak Temple (9 Things You Can’t Miss)

What to See at Luxor Temple (11 Things You Can’t Miss)

Karnak Temple / Egypt Tips for First Timers

• Temple of Hatshepsut in Luxor

The Temple of Hatshepsut, also known as Djeser-Djeseru (Holy of Holies), is one of the most stunning temples located on the West Bank of the River Nile in Luxor. Constructed by Pharaoh Hatshepsut and dedicated to herself and god Amun, the temple is built into a cliff face and consists of a series of spectacular terraces that can be reached by long ramps.

Learn More About Temple of Hatshepsut: 

What to See at the Temple of Hatshepsut (7 Things You Can’t Miss)

14 Tips for Visiting Temple of Hatshepsut in Luxor 

Temple of Hatshepsut / Egypt Tips for First Timers

• Cairo Egyptian Museum 

The Museum houses the world’s largest collection of Pharaonic antiquities consisting of more than 120,000 items (with a representative amount on display and the remainder in storerooms). To see it all, would take you days! To make it manageable, read 19 must-see things at Egyptian Museum . PLUS, things you need to know before going to the museum.

Learn More About Cairo Egyptian Museum:

19 Must-See Things at Egyptian Museum in Cairo (+Practical Tips)

Intrepid Scout's Egypt Tips for First Timers

• Get your e-Visa before traveling to Egypt. Apply and get your visa to Egypt online. It is a simple process to apply online and it will save you time when you arrive in Egypt.
• The best time of the year to visit Egypt is during the winter months. The temperatures are mild and perfect for exploring Egypt.
• Book the Nile river cruise! The Nile river cruise is still one of the most popular ways to see Egypt’s ancient sights. Many of the most famous sites are located directly on the river. At night, many of the temples and monuments are beautifully illuminated, and the sight of them from the water is stunning.

More Information About Egypt

How to Visit and What to See at KHAN EL-KHALILI BAZAAR in Cairo

Perfect 7-Day Egypt Itinerary for First Visit (Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, Abu Simbel)

What to See at the TEMPLE of HORUS at EDFU (5 Things You Can’t Miss)

10 Epic Things to See and Do at the Pyramids of Giza

What to See at the TEMPLE of KOM OMBO, Egypt (9 Things You Can’t Miss)

How to Visit and What to See at the TEMPLE of PHILAE in Aswan

Best Day Trip from Cairo – Dahshur, Memphis, and Saqqara (Maps+Photos)

Read All the Posts About Egypt in: 

Egypt Travel Guide

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18 Amazing Things to Do in Luxor (Your Ultimate Luxor Bucket List)

Perfect 2-Day Itinerary in Luxor (7 Things You Can't Miss)

5 Best Do-It-Yourself Day Trips from Luxor (Maps+ Useful Tips)

10 Epic Things to See and Do at the Pyramids of Giza (Unlock Giza's Gems!)

Amazing 19 Must-See Things at EGYPTIAN MUSEUM, Cairo (+BEST Practical Tips)

DIY Day Trip from Cairo to Dahshur, Memphis and Saqqara (Maps+Useful Tips)

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34 Best Travel Tips For Egypt: Things to Know Before You Go

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Egypt has something for every traveller, from awe-inspiring ancient sites to vibrant markets. However, navigating this historically rich and culturally diverse country can be daunting for even the most seasoned globetrotter.

That’s why I’m sharing my best travel tips for Egypt, drawn from months of exploring this fascinating (and sometimes frustrating) country.

Whether you’re interested in exploring the iconic Pyramids of Giza, delving into Egyptian history in the Valley of the Kings, learning about the ancient Egyptians in Luxor, or relaxing on a Nile River cruise, these tips will help you make the most of your Egyptian adventure.

After visiting Egypt for nearly 30 years, the  34 helpful travel tips for Egypt travel in this article are the ones I wish I’d known before I visited Egypt for the first time.

You’ll find everything in this Egypt travel guide, from Egypt travel safety tips to what not to do in Egypt, packing tips for Egypt, and everything you need to know when travelling to Egypt, including what to do about tips in Egypt and how to deal with harassment.

Ready to get started? Let’s dive straight into these essential Egypt travel tips!

Practical Travel Tips For Egypt

Let’s get started with the absolute basics 🙂

1. Never (Ever) Drink The Water In Egypt!

Of all the travel tips for Egypt, this is the top one – and you need to be very clear about it. Tap water in Egypt  is unsafe for human consumption everywhere – on swanky cruise ships, in posh hotels or anywhere else.

No one drinks it, and it will likely make you as sick as a dog if you do – even if you only use it to brush your teeth in your hotel room.

Of course, you could rely on buying bottled water while visiting Egypt. But, I must tell you that the quality (and taste) of the bottled water brands available in Egypt is variable – while some are palatable, some are pretty horrid. And then there’s the environmental cost of plastic bottles!

Because of this, you’ll want to include a  Water-To-Go Filterable Water Bottle  on your  packing list for Egypt  (see below).

💦 FILTERABLE WATER BOTTLE

The Water-To-Go Bottle will keep you hydrated and filter out the nasties that often make people sick in Egypt.

The built-in, three-stage filter in  Water-To-Go Bottles  filters out 99.99999% of water-borne contaminants, including bacteria, parasites, toxins, chemicals, microplastics and heavy metals. It’s your best defence against getting sick in Egypt from the water. I carried mine everywhere 🙂

🤮 Need tips on what to do if you do get sick while visiting Egypt? Head to  How to Deal With Delhi Belly

2. Get Travel Insurance for Egypt

Egypt is a fantastic country to visit, but it’s not a great place to be if something doesn’t go according to plan or you get sick! I don’t mean to scare you —  just to make you think about these crucial things .

One of the most important travel tips for Egypt is to protect yourself from potential pitfalls on your vacation with  travel insurance .

Just as you insure your car, home and health, you can also insure your luggage, belongings and health while travelling – and you absolutely should do this when travelling to Egypt!

🏆 Best Egypt Travel Insurance

What is the best travel insurance for Egypt? I only ever recommend Travel Insurance Master because they have outstanding customer service.

3. Check Your Passport

To visit Egypt, your passport must be valid for at least six months from when you arrive in Egypt. If you need to renew your passport before your trip, be sure to apply for a new passport in good time.

4. Pre-Book Your Tours in Egypt

UK Government  travel tips for Egypt warn of a risk that “tourists at high-profile sites like the Giza Pyramids may be confronted aggressively for money or business, even while travelling by car or taxi.”

They also say that “visitors  using a pre-booked guide or taking an organised tour to visit the Giza Pyramids  are likely to face fewer difficulties.”

➡️ The best places to book your Nile cruise or tour of the great pyramids are Viator and GetYourGuide . Each tour carries a user rating, so it’s easy to see which ones other visitors have enjoyed the most – and you can read all the reviews before making your booking.

5. Sort Out Your Egyptian Visa Before You Travel

You need a visa to enter Egypt if you’re a citizen of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and many more countries.

How to get your visa for Egypt

• Apply before you travel using the official  Visa2Egypt e-visa system . Your Egypt visa will be valid for a maximum of 3 months and will cost US$25 for a single entry to the country as a tourist.
• If you love standing in a queue after a long flight, you can get a visa on arrival in Egypt from one of the approved bank kiosks in the airport arrivals hall just before immigration. These visas cost US$25 (payable in US dollars) and are valid for 30 days.

⛔️ Do not buy a visa from an agent at the airport!!  They will sting you with an additional fee of more than US$25 for your visa. YOU DO NOT NEED TO PAY THIS. If you feel harassed, it’s easy to report any agent’s behaviour to the tourist police officers at the airport.

Travel to Egypt requirements for visitors to South Sinai resorts

👀 If you’re visiting the Red Sea resorts of Dahab , Nuweiba , Sharm el Sheikh , or Taba for up to 15 days, you receive a free entry permission stamp when you arrive. However,  you will need a visa if you plan to stay longer than 15 days or travel out of these areas .

👀 If you change your plans mid-trip and want to travel beyond one of the South Sinai resorts,  you can usually buy a visa at Sharm el Sheikh airport , allowing you to travel beyond the Sinai Peninsula.

⚠️Leaving Egypt with an out-of-date visa is problematic, to say the least, and you’ll likely have to pay a fine if your visa is more than 14 days out of date.

➡️ Contact the Egyptian Consulate in your home country for further information and enquiries.

Safe Travel Tips For Egypt

6. pre-book your transport from cairo international airport.

One of the most important things to book before you arrive in Egypt is your airport transfer from Cairo Airport .

It’s the best way to avoid the masses of scammy taxi drivers badgering you for the chance to drive you to your hotel and the safest way to travel as a female traveller. 

7. Stay Safe Online & Protect Your Data With a VPN

Whenever you use an open network to access your information on the web, you’re sending out an invitation for others to steal your data – from any device you use to connect to the web. This includes passwords, debit card and credit card info, and many other things you need to keep private.

This is why you need a VPN!

👀 What is a VPN?

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is essential in preventing cyber criminals from stealing your online and personal information.  NordVPN  is a trusted name in VPNs.

👀 How does a VPN work?

With a VPN, you create a secure (private) connection when you use a shared connection, for example, when you use a coffee shop WiFi. Without a VPN, you’re digitally connected to everyone else on the same shared network! And that’s risky!

⚠️  As you’ll likely need to use free, shared WiFi more when you’re travelling than at home,  the risk of your information being accessed by criminals is higher – unless you use a trusted VPN .

I recommend purchasing  NordVPN , one of the biggest and most-used VPNs, to keep your data safe while travelling.

▶︎ Get started now and protect your data with  NordVPN – it’s easy to set up 🙂

8. Take Care On Microbuses

Egypt generally has a low crime rate; however, some visitors have been victims of crime – especially petty crimes. Be cautious if travelling alone to reduce the risk of unwanted attention or harassment.

✔️ Don’t be the last passenger left on a bus or microbus.

✔️ Be vigilant when travelling alone in  taxis  and microbuses, particularly at night.

✔️  Report any crimes to the tourist police immediately .

9. Don’t Swim in the Nile!

“ Can you swim in the Nile ?” is one of the questions I’m most often asked about visiting Egypt! The simple answer is a resounding NO! The Nile River is contaminated with industrial, animal and human (!) waste. It’s also home to more than a few deadly snakes.

Read More: How Safe is Swimming in the Nile River?

10. Wear a Hat/Headscarf and Sunglasses

Most Egyptian women cover their hair, so you’ll attract less attention if you wear a long, lightweight scarf that covers your hair and neck. I forgot to pack a scarf on my first visit to Egypt, but I found it easy and cheap to buy one from a local market.

😎  Top Tip:  Sunglasses will help to disguise the colour of your eyes (not many Egyptians have blue or green eyes), and, like a mask, they can help you avoid eye contact.

11. Wear a Wedding Ring

Whether you’re married or not, wearing a simple gold band (or an inexpensive “ fake wedding ring  “) is a simple, inexpensive deterrent against unwanted male attention. I wore one on every trip to Egypt!

12. Respect Local Customs and Laws

I managed to get arrested in  Siwa Oasis  for swimming at the wrong time of day! It was a pretty scary time.

Fortunately, it was sorted out very quickly. Still, it was frightening at the time, and it made me realise how important it is to  be aware of local customs and laws to stay safe .

Egyptians can’t share a room with someone of a different gender (other than a spouse), as sex outside marriage is illegal! Don’t be surprised if your host(s) conduct room checks in rural areas!

13. Look After Your Valuables

Leave valuable jewellery at home and be careful with your camera, phone and other valuables. I use an ancient  Kipling cross-body bag  and an anti-theft  Pacsafe backpack  with a zip closure and a clip to keep my valuables safe.

Top Tip:  In crowded places, I wear my backpack on my front and my cross-body bag with the strap across my body. I also have an  RFID travel belt  to stash my cards, cash, passports, and important documents.

14. Be Careful with Your Cash

One way to  keep your cash safe while travelling  is to hide it in an  RFID bra   wallet ! Remember you’ll need somewhere discreet, like a public loo or changing room, to extract your secret stash.

❌ Never put valuables in your pockets, even ones with a zip! It’s much too tempting (and easy) for pickpockets and thieves. You don’t want to attract that sort of attention!

15. Security Before and On Your Trip

Security has been a problem for tourists in Egypt; however, there is a robust and visible police presence. You’ll also see special “tourist police” hired to protect tourists. Bag checks and scans at tourist sites and hotels are also there to keep you safe, although these can be a bit haphazard.

Egypt is still a volatile country, with some areas unsafe to visit. Other sites are safe, and almost 320,000 British tourists visited the country in 2017, mostly without any problems.

Check the latest travel advic e for Egypt here  and  purchase comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel . I always use  Travel Insurance Master  because their rates are competitive; you can extend coverage if you travel longer,  and making claims online is easy.

Egypt Travel Fit Tips

16. check whether your medications are legal in egypt.

Egypt’s rules about prescribed and over-the-counter medicines differ from those of many other countries.

Some widely used medications are considered controlled substances in Egypt and you can’t take them to Egypt without permission from Egypt’s Ministry of Health.  You risk prosecution under Egyptian law if you arrive in Egypt without the necessary documentation.

⚠️  Travelling with prescription medications?  Get an official letter from your physician confirming that the medicine is for a medical condition.

This should include details of your condition and how much medication you will be carrying. The letter should also state that the medicine is for personal use only.

➡️ Contact the Egyptian Embassy in your home country for more information and to find out which medicines are not permitted in Egypt.

17. Pack Plenty of Bug Spray

The mosquitoes in Egypt mean business and will soon make your life miserable if you’re not prepared for them!

I’ve always used Jungle Formula spray combined with this plug-in mosquito killer for my room. And if those nasty, itchy bites do happen, this inexpensive cream has been my go-to relief for decades!

18. Stock Up On Sun Protection Cream

Egypt is a hot country, where temperatures often soar well above 40 ° C (104 ° F) in the summer months. In addition to covering up and making sure to stay out of the sun, you’ll want lashings of high-SPF sun cream.

Cultural Travel Tips For Egypt

19. pack culturally appropriate clothes.

With my pale Northern European skin, blue eyes, and light coloured hair, I was a magnet for unwanted attention in Egypt.

From the irritating (constant offers of taxi rides, to change money or to buy things, and never-ending catcalls) to the offensive (blatant staring and leering, creepy handshakes, touching, and “accidental” brushing up against your breasts or bottom), there are lots of things to watch out for.

RELATED POST:  Travel Packing List for Egypt

I remember looking at handmade rugs in a crowded souk, only to realise that the man behind me was rubbing his erection against my bum! Many people saw what he was doing, but no one did anything…

⚠️ You need to  rethink your wardrobe for Egypt  to avoid being harassed. Dressing modestly is important if you’re going anywhere outside the main tourist areas.

✔️ Leave tight, revealing, or form-fitting clothes at home. Forget the strappy tank tops and shorts for anywhere outside of the main tourist resorts

✔️ Think conservative, loose, and floating, with  everything  covered up from your neck to below your knees.

✔️ Covering up shows respect for the local culture and will help you avoid attracting unwanted attention.

❌  Don’t flash any bare flesh or “show off” the shape of your body.

While I found the unwanted attention annoying,  I never felt unsafe , and most of the local people I met were delightful, welcoming, and kind.

20. Learn a Few Words in Arabic

Learn a few essential words in Arabic  as a courtesy and to summon help.

✔️  Google Translate usually helps ; however, I always feel safer when I have a few local words imprinted in my brain for emergencies.

21. Carry Small Bills For Tipping in the Local Currency

The custom of tipping or “baksheesh” is firmly embedded in Egyptian culture, and you should expect to tip a few Egyptian pounds in small change for most services.

While tipping is not mandatory in Egypt, it is customary as a way to thank an individual for great service. As a rough guide, here’s what to consider leaving when tipping in Egypt:

• Restaurants : leave a 10-15% tip
• Tour guides : Leave 10-15% of the tour price for the tour guide and 5-10% for the driver
• Hotels: Leave 10-15 Egyptian pounds per day for housekeeping staff, 5-10 Egyptian pounds per bag for porters and bellhops, and 10-15% of the bill for room service.

Practical Egypt Travel Tips

22. copy important documents before you travel.

Before any trip, make copies of all essential travel documents.

✔️ Save a scanned copy of the documents online to access them while travelling if necessary. Just in case! Leave copies with trusted contacts at home and take one copy in your carry-on bag.

✔️ If your hotel has a safe space, consider using it for important documents.

✔️ Save a scanned copy of the documents online to access them while travelling if necessary. Just in case!

23. Make a Contacts List

What would you do if your phone got lost or stolen? I’d be pretty lost! Making a copy of your key contacts is an excellent way to protect yourself if your phone does get broken or goes AWOL.

✔️ Save all your complete contact list online, including the contact details for your Embassy.

✔️ Carry a paper copy of your contacts list in your hand luggage.

Hopefully, you’ll never need it, but being prepared is good.

24. Watch Out If You’re Offered Egyptian Bananas

Watch out if anyone offers you “Egyptian bananas”. While bananas are grown in Egypt, they may not be talking about the fruit but being suggestive!

25. Bring Earplugs (Egypt is Noisy)

Egypt is a fantastically vibrant Muslim country, which means it can be loud! You’ll likely hear muezzins calling the faithful to prayer from the minarets of multiple mosques – five times a day, from early morning until late.

Then there are the street vendors touting their wares, the incessant blaring of horns and general traffic noise! You get the idea, but if (like me) you like a good night’s sleep, you’ll need good noise-cancelling earbuds to cope with the cacophony of Egypt!

🎧 These noise-cancelling earbuds have thousands of positive reviews on Amazon and work perfectly! If you don’t have wireless headphones, travelling is the best time to treat yourself and upgrade.

26. Always Carry Toilet Paper

It’s a massive understatement to say that public conveniences in Egypt are not up to Western standards.

Restrooms/loos in museums, on coaches and on trains range from the tolerable to the downright grim, so be sure to have TP and wipes with you whenever you leave your hotel!

27. Camel and/or Donkey Rides

Animal welfare is not the same in Egypt as it is in most Western countries . You simply cannot be sure that any animals you’re offered a ride on are well-treated . In a horrifying number of cases, they are not.

Better and more ethical ways exist to get out and explore this amazing country. This incredible tour includes a hot air balloon ride and a felucca sailing boat adventure , while you could also have a magical ATV adventure into the desert on this tour .

28. Snake Charming

I don’t love snakes (I’m scared of them), but there is nothing charming about this barbaric practice. And it’s almost entirely driven by tourist interest.

Some (not all) snake charmers make their living by capturing wild cobras, ripping out their venomous fangs and then sewing their mouths closed. The snakes suffer horribly for months before dying of starvation – only to be replaced by newly caught victims.

Please don’t support this animal cruelty on your trip to Egypt. There are much better things to post on Instagram.

29. Don’t Take a Minibus Tour to Abu Simbel

Seriously, this was one of my worst travel mistakes in Egypt! Lured in by a cheap ticket, I handed over my cash. I spent over four miserable hours (each way) travelling through the baking desert from Aswan to Abu Simbel in a bone-shaker minibus without air conditioning.

While the Temple of Abu Simbel is one of the best tourist landmarks in Egypt , I was too dehydrated when I arrived to really appreciate it!

Here are the three best ways to visit Abu Simbel:

• Fly to Abu Simbel and join this 3-night/4-day cruise from Lake Nasser to Aswan for a more comfortable and relaxing trip. [ Highly recommended ]
• Pick a private tour, including direct flights from Aswan to Abu Simbel and mercifully short transfers from the airport [ Likely to sell out ]
• Choose this highly-rated tour and make the road trip from Aswan to Abu Simbel in a private, air-conditioned car. [ Best budget option ]

30. Egypt Swelters in the Summer – Other Times Are More Pleasant

To help you plan your dream trip to Egypt, here’s a quick look at what the weather is like for each season:

Spring (March – May)

Spring in Egypt is a delightful time for exploration as temperatures are moderate and pleasant. With warm days that average around 25-30°C (77-86°F), you can comfortably discover attractions like the Pyramids of Giza, and Luxor’s temples or cruise along the Nile without enduring extreme heat. Additionally, blooming flowers add splashes of colour to various regions across Egypt.

Summer (June – August)

Egypt’s summer brings scorching temperatures that might be challenging for some visitors but there will be fewer crowds and lower prices. Daytime temperatures soar above 35°C (95°F) in most parts of the country; however, coastal cities like Alexandria or Hurghada provide respite with slightly milder conditions due to sea breezes.

If you choose to visit Egypt during the summer, you’ll need to stock up on sun protection essentials such as hats and sunscreen.

Autumn (September – November)

Autumn is an ideal time to explore Egypt’s wonders, with more comfortable temperatures returning after summer’s blistering heat subsides.

Average daytime temperatures range between 25-30°C (77-86°F), making it an excellent season for sightseeing at popular destinations like Cairo or Aswan without feeling overwhelmed by crowds.

Winter (December – February)

Winter in Egypt provides ample warmth for outdoor activities. Daytime temperatures hover around 15-20°C (59-68°F) in most regions, making exploring sites like the Valley of the Kings or Abu Simbel pleasant.

Evenings can be cooler, especially in desert areas and Upper Egypt, so you’ll want to pack a light jacket or sweater.

31. Expect to Pay To Take Photographs at Key Tourist Destinations

Whether you’re visiting the Egyptian Museum , the Pyramids of Giza or the vast temple of Abu Simbel, be prepared to pay a small fee for the right to photograph at or on the site.

Camel drivers and others will likely also demand a fee if you want to take their photograph.

Best Food in Egypt Tips

32. try the incredible street food.

Egyptian food is sublimely tasty. It’s well worth venturing out from your hotel to see what’s on offer from the local s treet stall street vendors and local restaurants. Kushari, baba ghanoush and hummus are all delicious!

In addition to the well-known sweet mint tea, why not sip some karkadeh (hibiscus juice)? It’s a very refreshing alternative!

33. Cover Up When Visiting Religious Sites

While some of Egypt’s ancient mosques allow tourist visits, it’s important to be respectful if you do visit.

When can I visit an Egyptian mosque?

Muslims pray five times a day, so it’s not appropriate to visit mosques during these times or to take photographs. 

How should I dress to visit a mosque in Egypt?

All visitors should remove their shoes before entering, and women should cover their hair with a scarf. A long-sleeved shirt is useful to cover up shoulders and arms, and you should wear a modest skirt or trousers.

What about visiting a Coptic monastery in Egypt?

The rules for entering an Egyptian Coptic monastery are similar in that you should dress conservatively and remove your shoes before entering. In addition, it’s not appropriate to visit during the period of Lent .

34. Always Pay in Local Currency When Making Digital Payments

Whether you’re using debit or credit cards to make payments when visiting Egypt, it’s important to make sure you always choose the option to pay in the local currency , not in your home currency.

If you choose to pay in the local currency, eg in Egyptian pounds, you will likely be stung with a worse currency exchange rate than your bank would charge you,

TRAVEL TIPS & RESOURCES

Here’s a quick look at all my favourite travel resources – the ones I use to plan every trip. Find more information on my  travel resources page .

🏠 Need a place to stay? Browse  Booking  or  VRBO 💃 How about fun experiences?  Get Your Guide  and  Viator  have it all 🚗 Considering renting a car? Use  Rentalcars 🚂 If you need transfers, bus or train tickets, check  Omio 🔒 Don’t forget about travel insurance from  Travel Insurance Master

• Your Ultimate Packing List for Travel to Egypt
• Visiting Siwa Oasis in the Western Desert – An Off-the-Beaten Path Adventure
• How to Avoid Holiday Tummy When Travelling

Final Thoughts on Travel Tips for Egypt

Whether this is your first trip to Egypt or you’ve been before, these are my best travel in Egypt tips: I hope they help you when you visit Egypt.

Egypt is a remarkable destination offering travellers rich historical and cultural experiences. By following these travel tips, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to this fascinating country.

From planning your itinerary to respecting local customs and traditions, being aware of safety precautions, and embracing Egypt’s unique sights and sounds, you can make the most of your journey.

So pack your bags, immerse yourself in the wonders of ancient Egypt, explore bustling markets and tranquil oases, indulge in delicious cuisine, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Happy travels!

Pin this post for later!

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• Visiting Siwa Oasis in the Western Desert – An Off-the-Beaten Path Adventure

Coralie Thornton, the owner and author of Grey Globetrotters, has been a traveller for more than four decades. Today, she helps others experience the UK, Europe and bucketlist destinations with meticulously crafted guides and affordable luxury itineraries, Her passion for adventure has led her through over 40 countries, seeking cultural experiences, delicious foods, and hidden gems.

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Egypt Travel Tips: 20 Things to Know Before Traveling to Egypt

Are you planning to travel to Egypt? Here is everything you need to know before you go plus all the Egypt travel tips to help you travel with ease.

As a first-time traveler to Egypt, there are always a lot of questions you ask yourself from how to get there, things to do, what not to do in Egypt , to general Egypt travel tips.

But you don’t have to be absolutely green about Egypt given the right information. So with my experience of traveling in the country, I’ll try to share with you all the things to know before going to Egypt so that you enjoy this incredible antique land to the max.

But honestly, if Egypt is not on your travel bucket list ,  then I don’t know what is. Famously known for the Giza pyramids, River Nile, and the Pharaohs, this beautiful country that both lies in the Middle -East and Africa offers more than what we read in papers or see on TV.

Yes, I know the media has somehow made us think that it is not safe to travel to Egypt by sometimes focusing on only the negative side but this was like a decade ago.

So with these tips for traveling to Egypt that I’ve put together, I hope you realize that there is more to Egypt than just the negative press.

Egypt had always been on my bucket list, so when the opportunity presented itself, I was over the moon excited.

Amidst some of the misleading articles I had read online, I was blown away by what Egypt had to offer and all the misconceptions that I had disappeared as soon as I step foot in Cairo.

However, there are some things that I didn’t know that I learned on “trip”. So, I’ve put down these travel tips for Egypt to make your trip easier and fun, so that you don’t have to be as green as I was – and don’t forget to check out Why not Egypt blog to learn more about Egypt in details.

Disclaimer* This post contains affiliate links and I might earn a small commission if you purchase through them but with no extra cost to you. This commission helps to keep the lights on here. You can read our privacy policy for more details. Thank you for supporting the Adventurous feet

Egypt Travel tips: Things to Know Before Going to Egypt

1. How to get your Egyptian tourist visa

Travelers to Egypt are required to have a visa to be granted access to this history-filled country with the exception of a few nationalities. However, obtaining an Egyptian tourist visa is generally not hard.

For the US, Canada, NZ, UK, EU, and other European countries, it is possible to get a visa on arrival and passport holders of over 46 countries (including the ones mentioned above) are eligible to get an E-visa using the E-visa portal.

The visa costs only $25 and you can as well check for eligibility for an e-visa from here .

But for a few passport holders like myself (Ugandan passport), you’ll need to process your visa from the nearest consulate before your trip.

2. When is the best time to visit Egypt

Since in most cases, the question of the best time to visit a certain place is based on weather, in summary, the best time to visit Egypt would be in the winter months.

With some parts of Egypt being a desert, the summer months (20th June- 20th September) can get extremely hot reaching up to 95 degrees F coupled with intense humidity which becomes unbearable for sightseeing – so you might want to stay away from them.

Winter in Egypt (20th December – 20th March ) is considered to be the best time to visit Egypt and it is also the high season of the country averaging around 72 degrees F.

But if you’re all about enjoying good weather with fewer crowds, opt for spring (20th March – 20th June) or Autumn (20th September – 20th December) which average about 80 degrees F would be much better.

These are also considered to be the shoulder months which means that you’ll be able to get great deals on many things like flight tickets and accommodation.

3. How to get around in Cairo and Egypt in general.

Cairo being a big city with everything on the go every time, you’ve got to know how to get around or at least how to access your hotel or hostel.

Taxi : Egypt is generally an inexpensive country and so are the taxis. I mostly used Uber taxis since they were relatively cheap and were almost everywhere in the city. I didn’t get a chance of using the mini public taxis but they seemed pretty ok.

Train: Cairo is one of the few cities in Africa that has a metro system. I was so excited to use it and the experience was super cool – don’t blame me; we don’t have one back home in Uganda .

The metro is very cheap, convenient, and reliable. I recommend you download the Cairo metro app to help you with the metro lines and stations. (It might not provide all the information about time like in some other big cities like Paris but its better than nothing)

Walking: The best way to discover the hidden places in the city is by walking. I saw many places I wouldn’t have seen if I was in a car. So if you are a walker like me, go for it, you will be glad you did.

Plane: Domestic flights in Egypt are relatively cheap. I remember I was about to take a 9 hours drive by bus from Dahab to Cairo when I got a notification from Skyscanner that the flight fare had dropped up to 45€.

You can imagine my excitement! I had to cancel the bus ticket for the plane ticket which is just a 1-hour flight.  But if you are a backpacker on a shoestring, the bus is pretty comfortable too.

4. What to eat in Egypt

If you are a foodie like me, you are likely to leave Egypt with a few extra pounds – at least I did.  The servings are really huge in almost all hotels and restaurants. 

Egyptians are big on food and they go all out to prepare really delicious food and almost all meals are served with pita bread which is locally known as eish Baladi .

On my very first day, I tried out the Egyptian traditional dish, Kushari which was so tasty.  To give you a clear picture, Egyptian cuisine is similar to the Eastern Mediterranean with foods like rice, kofta, kebabs, sea fish and vegetables.

And to get the real taste of Egyptian food, try out some of the famous street foods which are incredibly delicious but also mild to the pocket.

Some of the dishes you should try before you leave Egypt include; Falafel, Mahshi, Koshari, and Fattah.

5. How to make transactions in Egypt.

The local currency is the Egyptian pound. It is easier and cheaper to make all transactions in the local currency other than the dollar or Euro.

Credit cards are accepted in a few high-end places but cash always wins even when it comes to bargaining. 

The bargaining mechanism hugely works in Egypt. As a tourist, you are likely to be charged highly, so use all your skills of negotiating and friendliness and you might just get the product at the “right” price.

6. Tipping in Egypt

One of the other things to know before going to Egypt is that a tip is expected in almost alllll…. occasions.

While tipping is a sign of appreciation for the service received and is always on your own accord, a tip is something almost all Egyptians expect for even the slightest help ever.

So before you go to Egypt, prepare yourself to tip like never before. Whether is it at a restaurant, asking for directions, requesting someone to take a photo of you, everyone will be expecting a tip from you.

The best way to not spend all your daily budget on tips is by making sure you have small bills/coins on you all the time.

However, the amount you tip depends on the service received, but I’d suggest a “bigger” tip for tour guides or at restaurants and a smaller tip for “photo takers”. Remember, tipping is always optional and just tip when you feel like you want to and not because you’ve been “forced” to.

7. To hire a tour guide or not

Personally speaking, I traveled through Egypt independently without a tour guide and this goes to show that you can do it on your own too.

However, when visiting some places especially those rich with history, I’d advise you to hire a tour guide and if you can’t afford a private one, join a group tour.

When I visited the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, I thought I had seen it all and learned a great deal about the ancient times in Egypt.

But it turns out I was literally just browsing through the museum when a friend who hired a tour guide was telling me so many things about the museum that I had missed.

So don’t make the same mistake I made, book this Egyptian museum tour which is highly recommended on GetYourGuide to learn more about Egypt and its artifacts. It’s actually a combo with a tour to the Giza pyramids and the bazaar which saves you some bucks.

You can also check out my recommended tours and activities in Cairo in the widget below   all offered by my favorite tour provider, GetYourGuide .

8. Is it safe to travel to Egypt

This is the million-dollar question that most travelers ask before going to Egypt. Even though Egypt suffered a number of insecurities in the past, it has managed to pull through even making it to the list of the Safest African countries .

When I traveled to Egypt in 2018, I never felt unsafe in any way regardless of the many publications implying it as an unsafe country.

Even though it was safe for me, it doesn’t mean that bad things can’t happen. Bad things happen everywhere and Egypt is no exception.

So whilst, Egypt is a safe country to visit, general travel safety measures should be applied to make sure you don’t fall a victim of any petty crimes like street theft, pickpockets and general travel scams.

9. What to wear in Egypt

When I was packing for Egypt, I was so conflicted with what clothes to pack since I never owned any hijabs or maxi dresses – so I bought a few right before my trip (which I ended up not wearing btw).

But to my surprise, the dress code in Egypt , especially in big cities and touristy places, is not as modest as you would think. Yes, Egypt is an Islamic country but they’re a bit “relaxed” when it comes to what to wear.

But if you are planning to visit a mosque or any place of worship, carry a headscarf and dress modestly – shoulders and legs must be covered. 

However, don’t throw away your tank tops, shorts, or bikinis yet, you will need them when you hit the beach, go to beach towns like Dahab, or even the swimming pool.

Actually, for my entire time in Cairo, I wore jeans, and normal tops (any kind) and only covered my shoulders when visiting mosques.

But while in Dahab, a beach town, I wore almost only shorts and tank tops – and that’s exactly how the locals wore too.

You can also check out my post about what to wear in Egypt to get an idea of the essentials not to leave behind.

10. Places to visit in Egypt

Egypt is blessed with a number of incredible landmarks that you ought not to miss. From the bucket list sites of the Giza pyramids in Cairo, the history-filled Egyptian museum that houses over 12,000 artifacts to incredible temples in Luxor that should not be missed.

Since I’ve already written about the top places to visit in Cairo and the best Egyptian landmarks to visit , I will not be going into details of them but rather listing them down.

• Cairo citadel
• Khan el Khalili market
• Cruising the Nile
• Saqqara pyramids
• Luxor Temple
• Valley of the kings
• Karnak Temple and so many others.

11. Photography passes are a thing in Egypt

In most touristic sites, you’ll be required to purchase a separate photography pass on top of your entry ticket if you want to use your camera and all the pro photography equipment.

This rule applies in places like the mummies’ room in the Egyptian museums, inside the tombs, some temples and inside the Pyramids.

So when planning a trip to Egypt, make sure you plan for photography passes which go for around $20 if you plan on using your DSLR and other camera types.

12. To rent a car or not

The short answer is no. DON’T rent a car in Egypt – this is probably one of the best advice for traveling to Egypt.

Aside from the insane traffic especially in Cairo, drivers are totally crazy. Whether it is over speeding or overlooking the other road safety signs, Cairo roads are the true definition of chaotic transportation in Africa.

Honestly, its not worth spending all your energy and cool trying to navigate through the chaos or dealing with the fear of being ran into every second by what might seem to you like “careless drivers”.

To you as a tourist, all this is new but to the locals, its what they go through every single day so it’s not going to be a challenge for them because that’s what they’re accustomed to.

13. Haggle, haggle, and haggle some more

Just like India , Egypt is a place where you need to haggle for literally everything you buy.

Whether it is buying souvenirs from Khan el Khalili market, taking a taxi from the roadside, or buying roadside tours. Whatever you spend money on while in Egypt, make sure you bargain.

And since the locals know that you might bargain, they will start from a crazy amount – so start by diving the price by 2 or even 3 times and you never know, you might just get the “real” price.

14. Ask for help when you need it

Don’t make assumptions about everything, ask for help. Egyptians are very friendly people always willing to help, though sometimes it can seem too much making one question the real intentions.

One time I was asking for directions from a certain man, he was so kind to direct me but when he realized I wasn’t getting the location, he offered to drive me there in his car, which I definitely turned down – overly help, right?

Another time my taxi driver contacted me to know the exact location I was at, clearly, I couldn’t explain it very well since he didn’t know English well nor could I speak Arabic.

So I asked another gentleman to help me direct the driver in Arabic, he too was kind enough to oblige.

He started explaining and before I knew it, he had started moving away with my phone, imagine the anguish I felt at that moment. I hurriedly followed him and started devising ways of retrieving my phone in case he decided to take off with it.

His intention was not to take my phone but rather to help me (which he did) but I wasn’t sure until he gave back my phone. So when in need of help, ask for it but when it seems overly done, you can always turn down the offer.

15. What to pack for Egypt

Just like traveling to any other country, traveling to Egypt requires not leaving behind the travel essentials.

So below are a few essential travel items that you should not leave behind when traveling to Egypt.

• Sunscreen: Egypt can be extremely hot especially in the summer months. Although the sun is mild during Autumn and Spring, you’ll still burn if you don’t wear sunscreen. This sunscreen can really help with curbing sunburns.
• Hat: This still goes back to the sun and since part of the country is a desert, you may want to take some bit of shelter as you go about your sightseeing adventure. This hat is incredible for women and this one will be great for the guys.
• A Travel scarf: If you’re planning on doing some adventurous activities in Egypt like quad biking or camel riding, you’ll definitely need to carry a scarf for the dust. This scarf is soft on the skin but also big enough to act as a showel or a cover when you find yourself in places where you need to cover your hair. But if you need an anti-theft scarf, this one is a great choice and can keep a number of items with the phone inclusive.
• A collapsible water bottle: With the heat of Egypt, it’s important to stay hydrated at all times. So to make sure you have water on you all the time, pack this collapsible water bottle so that you can refill it every time it runs dry.
• A money belt or Travel pouch: Since there is a lot of street theft in Egypt, I’d advise you to either carry this money belt or this travel pouch to be able to keep your money safe especially when in crowded places like Cairo.

You can also check out my complete packing list for Egypt to make sure you don’t forget anything.

Related post: Import things to pack for an African safari

Other Egypt travel tips you should know

16. Do not take a drone into Egypt – It’s not allowed.

17. Like many other countries in Africa , avoid drinking tap water and stick to bottled water.

18. Travel scams are so many in Egypt, beware of them.

19. Cash is King in Egypt.

20. The Giza pyramids are probably way bigger than you anticipate.

FAQs About Visiting Egypt

What do I need to know before going to Egypt?

If you were looking for answers to this question, I hope that the Egypt travel tips I’ve shared above helped you. But if you still have more questions, you can leave them in the comment section and I will answer them ASAP.

What are the Do and don’ts in Egypt?

Some of the few do and don’ts in Egypt include; do respect the Egyptian culture , do not take anything from the historical places , d o not drink the tap water , do cruise on the Nile , do have fun , do not just visit Cairo , Egypt is bigger than just one city, do visit some temples and so many others.

What should I avoid in Egypt?

Do not climb the Giza pyramids, you might end up in jail!

Is there a dress code in Egypt?

There is no typical dress code in Egypt but being an Islamic country, you should try to be at least modest especially when visiting places of worship. I also shared a few clothes to wear in Egypt in the article and that should be helpful.

Can u drink alcohol in Egypt?

Yes, you can but only in specific places and at certain times usually starting at 7 pm at restaurants and hotels.

Can you hold hands in Egypt?

Try not to display too much PDA in Egypt especially in small cities but if you’re at a beach town/resort, then it’s totally ok as the vibe is a bit more “relaxed”.

Is Cairo safe for female tourists?

Yes, it is! I am a female and I was in Egypt but didn’t have any issues. You just need to follow the general safety travel tips and you’ll be fine.

Is English spoken in Egypt?

Yes, you’ll be able to go by easily especially since everyone in the tourism industry speaks English.

Final Thoughts on the Egypt Travel Tips

There you have it, folks! Those were some of the Egypt tips you need to know before visiting the country.

However, if you’ve been there before, share with me in the comment section some of your favorite tips for traveling in Egypt.

Need extra help in planning your trip to Egypt? Check out these posts

• Must see places in Cairo
• Tips for visiting the Giza pyramids
• Incredible landmarks in Egypt
• Things to do in Dahab
• How to spend one day in Cairo
• Biggest mistakes to avoid in Egypt

Was this post of the best travel tips for Egypt helpful? Then please consider sharing it with others

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24 Comments

Thanks for sharing amazing egypt travel blog

Thank you so much! I am glad you found these Egypt travel tips helpful.

we go to egypt in 2 weeks .. but i now see we are 500 kilometers from the pyramids !! is a day trip doo-able with that distance or should we be thinking of booking an overnight stay in cairo?? any tips on that?

Hey Donna, Thank you for your question and for reading! A day trip would be do-able but you will be extremely exhausted after the trip. Because I imagine you will drive for over 6 hours to the pyramids, spend around 2-3 hours at the pyramids and by the time you’re done with the tour, I am not sure you would want to make a return journey of close to 6 hours again! So, I would suggest you book an overnight stay in Cairo so that you enjoy the pyramids without any fatigue. I hope that helps and enjoy your trip to Egypt.

Looks amazing! I hope I get to go someday!

Yes you should, it looks better in person. No photos can do it justice

Egypt is at the top of my bucket list! The only obstacle is that it’s halfway around the world from me and I’m not a good flyer hahaha. Thank you for sharing this, I always love seeing other people’s trips to Egypt, to tide me over until I get there myself!

Oh Lily, i hope you overcome the flying issue soon and get to experience Egypt yourself. I really hope my post impacted on you(however tiny it might be) into ticking egypt off your bucket list.

Loved your writing. Like the simplicity with which you have written and the format is clean. Hope to have your comments as well since I’m new in this space. Look forward to more

Thank you so much, i appreciate the love. I will be returning the same kind of love and support. Love Esy

The food looks amazing!

Thanks. It tastes much better than it looks

Oh you will love Egypt, trust me!! when do you plan to travel to Turkey?

Jst kno Esther,Egypt is my next destination after Turkey

I’ve ever been to Egypt and you couldn’t describe it any better. It is a great post. I just wish I had read it before my trip. Thank you for sharing those tips.

Thank you for appreciating. It is good to know you’ve been to Egypt, it’s such a beautiful country.

Okay after reading this,I want to be in Egypt like yesterday… Nice read it is.. This is great Essy..

You should start parking your bags right away ? Thanks for appreciating charlie

Seems like a nice place to venture, will add that on my list of travels

It definitely is, you should visit it one time. And when you do, please share your experiences with me

Always looking forward to reading your posts. Beautiful piece it is.

Thank you my dear one, I am glad you enjoyed it

Thanks for the advice! I really enjoyed reading this

You are welcome, I am glad you enjoyed it

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Egypt Travel Tips: 14 Things to Know Before Your Visit

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As I sit here, writing this post, I’m struggling to find the right words to describe my feelings about Egypt. Spectacular, awe-inspiring, infuriating, exhausting, and annoying are the first words that come to mind.

Visiting the Pyramids of Giza , taking a cruise down the Nile , and learning all about the ancient Egyptian pharaohs in Luxor were experiences of a lifetime. But being constantly hassled by touts to buy their souvenirs, ride their camels, and give them a baksheesh (tip) at times made me hesitant to leave my hotel room.

I tried my best to prepare for Egypt. I scoured travel blogs and guides, read travel advisories with warnings about past terrorist attacks, and mentally prepared for the best of times and the worst. Or so I thought…

After spending 30 days in this crazy, amazing country, I’ve come away with a list of 14 things that I really wish I would have known prior to landing in Cairo . Hopefully, this list of Egypt travel tips will help you prepare for the madness that awaits you in this amazing country! 

I should clarify a few points before you read on:  

• First, I refer to “Egyptians” in a negative context a few times in this article. I’m generally only speaking about Egyptian men who speak proficient English (among other languages) and work in tourism. Most Egyptians are very lovely people and, in general, don’t hassle you.
• Second, I am a blonde-haired, blue-eyed, fair-skinned American woman. I traveled to Egypt with my husband (who also happens to have blonde hair, blue eyes, and fair skin. No, we are not related). So we probably generated more attention as it is 100% clear as day that we are not Egyptian. And it is likely that I would have had a different experience if I was traveling alone (or if I was traveling as a brunette).
• Third, if you visit Egypt with a tour group, you’ll likely escape many of the negative experiences that I describe in this post. Your tour guide will act as a kind of bodyguard to shield you from the touts.
• And lastly, do NOT let this post dissuade you from planning a trip to Egypt. It is a spectacular country that everyone in the world should visit. But if/when you do make the trip, you should probably be a bit more mentally prepared than I was… (and you will be after reading these Egypt travel tips).

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Tips for Visiting Egypt: 14 Things to Know Before Visiting

1. it is an incredibly safe country to visit.

My husband and I had talked about visiting Egypt for months until we actually bought our tickets. To say I was nervous would be an understatement. We had family members warn us of possible kidnappings. Nearly everyone we told that we were going responded with “are you crazy? Isn’t it really dangerous?”

I read blogs and travel advisories and convinced myself that I’ve lived an epic life, so it’d be okay to die a bit earlier than anticipated. So we booked our tickets and made arrangements to stay for the entire length of our visa-on-arrival. I pretended to be really excited.

And of course, I was wrong to be so nervous (just like I was wrong to be nervous about  visiting Turkey ). And I was kind of ridiculous. I found Egypt to be incredibly safe and the people to be quite welcoming. They seem to love Americans and think that Trump is crazy. I never even for a second felt unsafe.

Sure, it’s a bit scary trying to cross the street, but actual physical danger? No way. As an example, if you want to visit the Cairo Museum, you’ll pass through three different security checkpoints (complete with three separate bag and body scans).

That being said, while we were in Luxor there was a terrible attack on a mosque in the Northern Sinai region which is still notoriously dangerous. We would not recommend visiting the Northern Sinai peninsula area, nor would we recommend a land crossing from Israel. The Suez Canal is heavily guarded. It is how the remainder of Egypt has managed to stay safe from the forces occupying the peninsula.

2. The Most Frightening Danger in Egypt is School Children and Their Cameras

We couldn’t figure out if it was because tourism has been so terrible in Egypt over the past seven years. Maybe the children have never really seen tourists, or maybe the kids are just naturally curious. But the biggest danger we ever faced in Egypt was children wanting to take selfies with their cell phones. Specifically at touristy destinations (these kids are likely visiting from smaller, remote villages).

At the Pyramids of Giza, I was constantly surrounded by 30-ish children trying to touch my hair, shake my hand, and take a selfie with me. The only English words they seemed to know were “ what is your name? “, and “ photo? “.

It sounds fairly harmless, right? What kind of monster would complain about taking photos with children? Well once you say yes to one, then another will see and then another. Soon enough, you will be surrounded by a mob of crazy kids demanding your attention for a selfie (or three). And god forbid they get organized and take one group shot, that would be far too easy.

If you have blonde hair, blue eyes, and fair skin, anytime you see a group of young children approaching – RUN!

3. Passive-Aggressive Groping is Not Common

I have repeatedly experienced a strange phenomenon in conservative countries like Jordan , Morocco , and India that I not-so-lovingly refer to as “passive-aggressive groping”. It’s when men unnecessarily brush up against women’s bodies in a creepy attempt to cop-a-feel way.

It happened to me so many times in India that I started carrying an umbrella under my arm. The point facing backward kept men away from my butt. And I gave a serious scolding to one emboldened gent who “tripped” up the stairs and caught himself with my buttcheeks. Not cool.

I read several blogs stating that this was also a problem in Egypt. There was an effort to educate younger boys in school that this behavior is wrong and not tolerated. I even shed a few tears just trying to mentally prepare myself to deal with this again (it makes me crazy that some people believe it’s okay to touch another person’s body without their permission).

But not even once in the 30 days that we spent in Egypt did anyone touch me in any way that made me feel uncomfortable, even a little. Sure, a few men tried to put their arms around my shoulders for a picture, but they refrained as soon as I said no. Passive-aggressive butt rubbing doesn’t appear to be an issue in Egypt. At least, it wasn’t for me, thank god.

(And PS, if you’re thinking that it’s probably because I don’t have a nice butt, you’re wrong, I totally do!)

4. Women will get Catcalled, but it’s Reasonably Harmless

I also read plenty of blogs warning women about making eye contact with men in Egypt as they would get aggressively catcalled. So I was ready for some good old-fashioned whooping, hollering, and whistling. And during my first day in Cairo, I refused to make eye contact with anyone (which actually makes it really difficult to see where you’re going).

And I did get catcalled a bit. But it was pretty harmless. “How many hearts did you break today?” and “how much do you cost? I’ll give you 1 million camels” were the most common. I did have one man tell me that he would kill his wife for me. It seemed a bit over-the-top but (hopefully) he meant it in jest. Most of the catcalls seemed to be more funny and flattering than anything else.

5. Many Egyptian People are at a Point of Financial Desperation

In 2016, the value of the Egyptian Pound (LE) fell significantly. It had previously been pegged which was causing turmoil in the country. While prices have been somewhat adjusted for inflation, wages have remained more or less the same as before. Meaning that many Egyptians are earning about half of what they were earning prior to 2016 but paying higher prices for everything.

Because of that, the Egyptian people are really struggling to make ends meet. In areas like Luxor and Aswan that rely heavily on tourism, you can actually feel the desperation in their pleas. It’s incredibly sad and difficult to understand. And sadly, for tourists, it makes for a very frustrating experience.

The next few things that I wish I would have known prior to visiting Egypt will make it sound like we had quite a negative experience. That is not the case, most of the time. But there were times when this desperation facing the Egyptian people was so infuriating that it tempted me to jump on the next flight back to the US. It helped to remember that many people in this country are truly struggling and some view tourists as their only option to earn money.

6. A Tip (“Baksheesh”) is Expected for Anything and Everything

Possibly due to #5 on the list, Egypt has developed a culture where a tip, or “baksheesh”, is expected for anything and everything. We had two pretty hilarious and memorable “baksheesh” requests. The first was when we left a restaurant to get into our Uber. There was a man standing nearby who claimed he “didn’t let anyone else steal our Uber” and tried to demand a tip (he was not successful). The second was when we went into a phone store to replace the screen protector for my iPhone. The store owner requested a tip beyond the price we paid. We still don’t really know what for.

When visiting temples, there are many guards dressed in traditional clothing hanging around. They will ask you to take a photo of them, or try to show you something in the temple, or even allow you to take a photo when it isn’t allowed (such as in tombs in the Valley of the Kings and inside of the Great Pyramid in Giza). Then, they will expect a baksheesh for their efforts. It gets REALLY old really fast. But I learned that these men earn about 1200 LE per month (~$65 USD) so your tip really helps their families.

Locals never seem to want to part with small change so it can be difficult to keep small bills for your baksheesh. Hang on to 5, 10, and 20 LE bills for dear life!

7. The Amount you Should Tip is Much Smaller Than you Might Expect

When we first arrived in Cairo, we had a driver meet us to take us to our hotel. We tipped him 100 LE (~$5). He was literally ecstatic. He kept shaking our hands and asking us to call him again for rides wherever we needed to go. Turns out we tipped him about five times what we should have.

Expect to pay 10 LE for the guards hanging out at the temples. Public bathrooms will run you 2 LE. Pay the bellboy 10-20 LE for carrying your luggage to your room. And 10-20 LE/night for housekeeping is standard. The service charge is generally included in your check when dining out but if it isn’t, a 10% tip will suffice.

8. If Someone Offers to Help, it Usually Comes at a Price

If I had a dollar for every time someone approached us on the street who genuinely wanted to help us find what we were looking for, I would be broke.

There were times when we thought someone was genuinely interested in talking to Americans. However, it was only a matter of time until they tried to direct us to their shop or restaurant. They seemed offended when we turned down their offer for “Egyptian hospitality” which would consist of tea in their shop while trying to “help us spend our money”.

We learned that (almost) no one who approaches you on the street really wants to chat or to help and anyone who aggressively tries to point you in any direction is lying. On the way to the entrance to the Pyramids of Giza , several people on the street point to a side street claiming “entrance here! Ticket office here!” It’s not, they’re lying. And there are police officers standing 10 feet away that know this scam is going on but choose to do nothing about it.

It’s also very difficult to ask anyone on the street for help. While they may be genuinely helpful, it’s highly likely there is a tout lingering nearby who will tell the nice person that they’re already helping you. Even though they’re really only trying to help you to find their shop. This is incredibly frustrating as they are really difficult to shake.

I wish I could give good advice but just this evening (as I write this) we had two people following us around at different times, pretending to just want to chat. I hate that this makes me sound cynical and I hope that you don’t find this to be the case during your visit.

9. “No” Does Not Seem to Mean No in Egypt

Every time we left our hotel in Luxor and in Aswan, we would see the touts start running toward us. “Felucca? Felucca? You know how much it costs? Very cheap, Egyptian price!” or “taxi, taxi, where you go?” It’s like we had giant neon dollar signs on our foreheads. And no matter how many times we said “no thank you” or “NO” or “LITERALLY STOP FOLLOWING US!” they persisted. We were often followed for blocks while ignoring their nonstop attempts to get us into their boat, car, or horse-drawn carriage.

It would seem that these Egyptians either don’t know the meaning of the word “no”, or they just don’t care that you don’t want what they are offering. They assume they’ll wear you out and eventually you’ll agree.

We learned that the best way to get them to finally leave us alone was just to ignore them. Giving a polite “no thank you” just gives them hope that they can wear you down. You’ll feel like the world’s biggest asshole pretending that the person that is walking alongside you while yelling in your ear doesn’t exist, but you’ll thank me in the end.

10. Many Egyptians Drive Without Headlights at Night

For some reason, many Egyptians believe that driving with the headlights on really impedes the vision of oncoming drivers at night. And thus many drive with either just their fog lights or with no headlights at all. They’ll often flash their lights to inform an oncoming driver of their presence when traveling at high speeds or when few other cars are around.

For a backseat driver, or for anyone attempting to cross the street, this can be horrifying. Keep calm, relax, and rest (somewhat) assured that their visibility is better because of it!

11. Uber Rides are Dirt Cheap

Uber rides are dirt cheap and also awesome because the drivers won’t try to hassle you! Most of the taxi drivers in Egypt will not accept the fact that you only want them to take you to one place. They’ll spend the majority of the ride trying to convince you to let them take you to some other tourist attraction. And, as I mentioned above, they have a hard time taking no for an answer. The Uber drivers won’t even try to talk to you!

We found that even though many Uber drivers got really really lost trying to find us (damn you one-way streets!), the wait was worth not getting hassled for more rides or duped on price. You’ll rarely pay more than $5 to go anywhere around Cairo so, of course, they appreciate (but certainly don’t expect or ask for) a baksheesh. Just be sure you ask that they follow their GPS – their way usually isn’t the best way!

12. The First Price Offered is Rarely the Price You’re Expected to Pay

We encountered this many many times during our time in Egypt. The locals are trying to be competitive in their pricing so they lie. Here is an example of what we encountered fairly frequently: we were walking down the street in Aswan and after dodging probably 30 men asking us to take a ride on their felucca, we were approached by a seemingly nice old man who offered us a ride for 25 LE (~$1.50 USD). We were only a short distance from our destination but figured we could take a cheap boat ride and get there much faster.

About midway through the trip, I started asking the nice old man about an excursion for the next day. When my question of price came up he informed me that the charge would be 75 LE/hour, “the same as our current ride”.

“Um, excuse me?” I said. “You said this felucca ride would be 25 LE.” He informed me that I misheard him and I could ask anyone what the going rate is and blah blah blah. Bottom line is that he blatantly lied to try to get our business and then flipped once our only escape was to swim back to shore.

The moral of the story is that we would have happily paid him 75 LE for his time and would have given him our business the next day if he’d just been honest. I get it, I’m being an asshole, it’s only a few dollars. But it gets so exhausting having to negotiate for everything and attempting to figure out the actual price to pay at the end of your trip.

Be sure to confirm the price several times (and even videotape it if necessary) before agreeing to any services in Egypt.

13. Visiting Tourist Sites on Fridays and Saturdays is Horrifying

Fridays are prayer days for Muslims, and Fridays and Saturdays are weekends for most Arab countries. So every attraction that you (tourist) want to visit, the locals want to visit as well. And busloads of schoolchildren who have the day off of school will arrive shortly after you do. Referring back to #2 of this list, you’ll not only be bombarded by people wanting to take your photo, but you’ll also need to plan on waiting in long lines and sharing small spaces with lots of people.

If you plan on visiting either the Pyramids of Giza on Friday or Saturday during the midday, or if you plan to visit the Cairo Tower on a Friday night… just… don’t. Trust me.

14. Everyone Smokes. Everywhere.

I was walking through the airport, hacking up a lung and wondering why it reeked like cigarette smoke in the middle of the G gates. It turned out the doors to the “smoking room” were open wide so as to give the smokers inside some fresh air. That is a pretty accurate representation of all of Egypt. Smokers can light up pretty much anywhere – in hotel rooms, restaurants, in taxis, on buses. The world is their black tar oyster.

Be sure to request non-smoking rooms in hotels and non-smoking tables at restaurants. Prepare for your senses to receive an assault.

Things to Know Before Visiting Egypt Conclusion

Would we visit Egypt again? Absolutely! Are we beyond ready to leave after being here for 30 days? Yes. But you should DEFINITELY VISIT EGYPT NOW! It’s super safe and super cheap, and the things you will see will blow your mind. Hopefully, these 14 things will help to prepare you for the good, bad, and ugly that you may experience while visiting this spectacular country!

We hope this guide helps you in planning and preparing for your trip to Egypt!

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About the Author:

Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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26 thoughts on “egypt travel tips: 14 things to know before your visit”.

Very interesting and useful article. Thank you.

You are so right. You two stand out in a crowd of Egyptians and once you open your mouths are targeted. Well done for staying the course and enjoying your travels. I read your comment on Egypt. specifically Giza, as we are going there in May. We have been before for a Nile cruise which was absolutely fabulous. We also lived in India for years so we are used to blarney, baloney, downright lies and entreaties. Thank you for your forthright and helpful words, now I know what I am getting into and it hasn’t changed. I really like the fact that you know all the flannel is not the people who live there but is the patter the touts, beggars etc given to foreigners without caring but trying to shame them into parting with money anyway they can. It is a dilemma how much you help, as you think, and also get furious with the sham. thank you for your accounts. We live in Dubai and are going to Giza for six days in May this year. it will be a pain, a delight and a joy to be there.

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The Egyptian Traveler

Essential Tips For Travelling To Egypt: 15 Things To Know + Cultural Do’s & Don’ts 🇪🇬

Egypt is a magical country full of history, and it is a must visit. Discovering this land of mystery, and the ancient templates and artefacts is a unique experience that is a must at least once in your lifetime. Egypt also has beautiful white beaches and reefs on the red sea that are also a must.

15 Top Things To Know Before Visiting Egypt

1. tipping is expected.

Tipping is expected everywhere in Egypt, and this is not just for tourists. Egyptians in general give tips, so it is always expected. If you are at a restaurant or a cafe for example, you should tip the waiter/waitress, and in most public toilets there will be an attendant that keeps it clean, so it is good to tip before or after using the toilets. It doesn't have to be a huge tip, it can be a small amount like EGP 10 or EGP 20. Also, be aware that most things are not for free, so if you take a photo with a camel for example. you are expected to give a tip. But a general tip, is to be prepared to tip a lot!

2. It Is Better To Not Visit In The Summer

The weather in Egypt between May and August is hot, like really hot, so try to avoid visiting during this time as it would be unbearable and also, most sites have limited shade so you will be standing in the sun most of the time. The best time to visit Egypt is between September and April, it is still summer in September and October but the heat is not as bad.

3. You Can Visit During Ramadan

Every thing is normal during Ramadan, you don't need to avoid visiting during this time of the year. Opening hours may change, but everything works normally and tourist sites are not affected.

4. Dress Modestly

Even though there is no dress code, but it is respectful to dress modestly in most cities in Egypt. In cities such as Cairo, Giza, and Alexandria, you should dress modestly, but in other cities such as Aswan, Luxor, and cities near the red sea, this shouldn't be a concern.

5. Leave You Drone At Home

The use of drones is prohibited in Egypt unless you obtain a license from the Ministry of Defence. It is not worth the hassle as you your drone will get confiscated at the airport and you might risk penalties if you use one.

6. It Is Easy To Get Visa Upon Arrival Or Online

Many nationalities can get their visa upon arrival, make sure to do your research before visiting to know if you can do that. Visa costs $25 and it is paid in cash at the airport just before passport control. The officer will add the visa to your passport and stamp it, and that's it. So, if you are from the US, Canada, European Union, and many other countries, you can simply book your flight and don't need to worry about the visa. Or you can choose to get it online which would be a lot easier and hassle free.

→ Get your online visa here from iVisa!

7. Don't Drink The Tap Water

Do not drink the tap water in Egypt! It is not safe to do so, use bottled water or you can get a bottle that has a filter to avoid using plastic water bottles.

8. Don't Rent A Car

As an Egyptian, I do not recommend renting a car to move around Egypt. It is chaotic to drive in Egypt, it is very different than most countries so you will struggle to drive in Egypt. You can easily use services such as Uber and Careem as they are cheap, and you can also take a taxi in places where Uber isn't available.

9. Use Cash

Most places only accepts cash in Egypt, so make sure to have cash on you in case you are somewhere a card isn't accepted. Most tourists places have a credit card machine so you should be fine, but in general you will need cash to pay for other things and also for tipping. You will find ATM machines everywhere so you will be able to withdraw money whenever you need. Be sure to know the ATM limit set by your bank that allows you to withdraw in a day!

10. Buy A SIM Card At The Airport Or Get An E-SIM

It is better to get a SIM card from the airport, you will find a service provider at the airport such as Orange, where you can buy a SIM that is relatively cheap. All you need to do is show your passport and you're good to go.

If you want to save time and avoid the hassle, you can definitely get an e-sim through either Airalo or DrimSim , which is the easiest thing to do because all you need to do is download the app and simply activate it once your reach Egypt or any other destination. This is the best way to avoid and solve the pain of high roaming bills. DrimSim also offers the option to get a physical sim card that is not tied to any operator so you can activate it in any country you want.

11. Discounts On Entry For Children & Students

At most tourists sites such as museums, temples, tombs, and more, you will find a discounted tickets for children and for students as long as they show their student ID.

12. Photography Passes

In most tourists sites you will need a photography pass if you are taking photos with a camera or any gear other than your phone. You can ask before entering any site but most probably it will be written at the entrance. Also, be aware that there are some places where photos are prohibited even with your phone.

13. Security Checks

Be aware that there will be many security checks as you enter tourists sites, as well as hotels and malls where you will have to go through security. You will put your bags on the x-ray machine, and you will walk through a metal detector. Similar to airport security but not as rigorous. Also, don't be alarmed by the military and police presence in most tourists sites or when you walk along the streets, they are there to protect you and protect the sites. It is completely safe to visit Egypt so don't be scared.

14. Book A Tour With A Reputable Company

If you are planing to travel with a company and not by yourself, then make sure to book a tour with a reputable company. Booking a private tour would probably be your best option.

15. Get Ready To Have Your Mind Blown

Lastly, get ready to have your mind blown by Egypt's history and landmarks. I would recommend reading about Egypt's mythology and familiarising yourself with the chronology of Egypt's history prior to your trip.

Cultural Do's & Don'ts

13 do's.

Learn a few words in Arabic : I always recommend learning a few words in the local language whenever you are traveling, locals appreciate it even if you only know a few words.

Spend time chatting with people : We are known for our great sense of humour, as well as hospitality and kindness, so it is always great to spend time chatting with locals.

Don't be scare to ask your guide when you don't understand something : If you are not sure about something, just ask, most Egyptian will be happy to help you.

It is better to stay in central Cairo : If you want a hotel near the Pyramids, it is fine if you don't want to visit any other sites, but the Pyramids are far from other sites, so it is better to stay somewhere else.

Dress modestly : In cities such as Cairo and Alexandria, it is better to dress modestly, there is no dress code but you will get looked at which is unpleasant.

No public display of affection : This is looked down upon as it is unacceptable in Egypt since it is a muslim country.

Ask more than one person for direction : Not going to lie, you can't trust one person to give you the right directions, Egyptian are kind and always want to help, but they are not always right, so ask at least three people for directions.

Ask for help when crossing the street : It is difficult to cross the street in most place in Egypt, don't be scared to ask for help, locals would be happy to help you.

Ask taxis for fares before going anywhere : If you use Uber or Careem then you're fine, but if you take taxis, then you need to ask for the fare before going anywhere and check if the meter is working or not , but I would recommend to use Uber or Careem as they are cheap and better.

Carry small change and coins : Always have cash with you as you would want to buy something from a place where there isn't credit card machines, so you will need cash for that as well as for tipping.

Leave tips : In restaurants, cafes, and most places, it is better to tip, this isn't just for tourists, Egyptian in general tend to tip and it is expected to do so.

Bargain when buying a souvenir : Never accept the first price when buying something from from the local markets, you need to bargain.

Respect signs : When visiting temples and other sites, make sure to read the signs. In some places, it is prohibited to take photos even with your phone, as this can be damaging to the artefacts.

10 Don'ts

Don't think about renting a car : It is chaotic and hard to drive in Egypt, so don't even thing about doing it, and also services like Uber and Careem are cheap and better to use.

Don't wear shorts and tank tops : As mentioned, you need to dress modestly in most cities.

Don't talk to people who approaches you : People will approach you in public places to offer you a service, decline their offer politely and be firm when saying no because they will keep asking you.

Don't drink the tap water : It is not safe to do, drink from bottled water, or you will find water filters at some hotels and you can drink from them.

Don't drink alcohol in the street : As a muslim country, alcohol is not socially acceptable, so you can still drink alcohol at bars or some restaurants and cafes, but otherwise, don't drink anywhere else.

Don't take photos of locals without their permission : It is not respectful to do so anywhere in the world, but especially in Egypt.

Don't visit mosques during prayer time : It is not respectful to do so unless you are a muslim and you are going to pray there.

Don't get intimidated by market vendors : Market vendors will try to get you to buy from them, don't get intimidated and as mentioned if you are going to buy then make sure to bargain.

Don't pet street dogs and cats : Don't do it unless you are vaccinated and not afraid of being bitten or scratched.

Don't use drones : It is prohibited unless you have a license from the Ministry of Defence.

What To Do Before Travelling To Egypt

🪪 get your visa.

Easily get your visa with iVisa which is simple and much less complicated than dealing with foreign governments. All documents are reviewed by a team of immigration experts. Their staff is well-trained and offers years of experience.

→ Go to iVisa

✈️ Book Tickets

Book your flights seamlessly with WayAway. Compare prices, find the best deals, and jet off to Egypt with ease! — Get 10%  off WayAway Plus membership with this code → TP-385219.

→ Go to WayAway

📱 Buy A Travel SIM-Card

Stay connected easily with Airalo SIM-card. Activate one before your trip and enjoy hassle-free communication during your time in Egypt!

→ Go to Airalo

🔒 Choose Insurance

Ensure peace of mind during your trip to Egypt by having comprehensive coverage against any unforeseen circumstances.

→ Go to VisitorsCoverage

How To Get To Egypt

Egypt has many international airports that you can arrive to, here is a list of these airports:

Cairo International Airport

Hurghada International Airport

Sharm El Sheikh International Airport

Luxor International Airport

Alexandria International Airport

How To Move Around Egypt

It is so easy to move around Egypt without renting a car, also a tip; do not rent a car because driving in Egypt is so chaotic and exhausting. You can easily find trains and buses to move from one city to another, and you can also find planes if you want to since there is a quite a few airports. For buses I really like Blue Bus since it is the most clean and comfy one available, but if you are on a budget; you can still find cheaper buses such as Go Bus or The Super Jet. You can also use both Uber & Careem to move within each city, but be aware that they are not available in some areas so you can use public transportation.

Best Time To Visit Egypt

Egypt has a great weather nearly all year round, but it gets pretty cold during winter which is actually short since it would typically be from December/January until March/April. Be aware that during this time is the low season so things would be cheaper at that time. The best time to visit Egypt in general is between October and April, but if you are looking for a nice and warm weather, then it is best to visit in October, November, and April. You can of course visit Egypt during the summer, but it gets really hot during that time and it is also high season so things will be more expensive.

Accommodations In Egypt

Egypt has a wide range of accommodations available that would suit each budget, you can find a lot of hotels whether you want something luxurious or on a budget. You can also find hostels around Egypt if you really are on a budget, as well as some great Airbnbs.

You can book your accommodation through Booking.com , which is the one I use the most, or if you wan to stay in a hostel you can book through HostelWorld . You can also use Agoda , Trivago , or Vrbo to book your accommodations. I know most people have a favourite website or app to use, so just choose what you prefer best.

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23 Top Travel Tips For Egypt to Know Before You Go

Posted on Last updated: October 26, 2022

It’s important to know the best travel tips for Egypt before you visit, as it’s truly a country unlike any other.

Egypt is home to the most ancient sites in the entire world shrouded in mystery, pristine blue sea, vast expanses of unique desert landscapes, and sprawling busy cities. There’s a unique culture, different religions, and a certain dialect of Arabic spoken. To navigate all of this, there are definitely plenty of things to know before traveling to Egypt!

After intending to stay only one month, we got caught up in all the incredible places to visit in Egypt and ended up staying for four months. We traveled far and wide, really got to know the culture, made tons of local friends, and lived in Dahab on the Red Sea for a few months after visiting EVERYTHING we could.

So in this post I will share all the travel tips for Egypt I wish I had known before I went, as well as some things I wish I had brought or thought of before my trip that would have helped me, to help you!

Preliminary Egypt Tips for First Timers to Know Before You Go:

Here are some of the most basic Egypt travel tips to help you plan. See also my other helpful Egypt articles:

• Things to Do in Cairo: Full Travel Guide
• Day Trip to Alexandria From Cairo
• Best Views of the Pyramids of Giza

When is the Best Time to Visit Egypt?

I highly recommend to pay attention to the best times to visit Egypt, which is ideally fall and spring. Winter can get quite cold in Egypt, but summer is the biggest no-no unless you can stand the heat!

The best times to visit Egypt are March-May and October-December when the temperatures are moderate – not too hot or cold – and you can still enjoy a beach or two.

Make sure to know the dates of Ramadan before visiting Egypt also – I would advise to travel outside of Ramadan to experience Egypt in all its glory.

The Language is Arabic: Have a Translator App or Headphones

The language in Egypt is Arabic – the Egyptian dialect of Arabic. The Arabic language has its own alphabet which is of course entirely different to any language that uses Latin alphabet. If you are unfamiliar, it won’t be easy to read many street signs, prices, and other labels. Many signs and most grocery store labels also have English words, but not all of them.

Many people speak a few words of English, but a lot of people do not. It’s important to be able to translate on-the-go while in Egypt in many cases, which is why I recommend a translating app and headphones to carry on you.

Translators to Use

Timekettle Translation Earbuds are the most convenient way to make sure you are always able to communicate while traveling. After using slow translator apps for years and struggling typing potentially long phrases into a phone while passing it back and forth, I discovered these M3 earbuds that do it in a MUCH more convenient way.

These earbuds can be used as normal headphones – for music etc – and also have 3 translation modes for simultaneous long conversations, for one-way listening, and also ‘speaker mode’ for two-way quick conversations (which I find is best for travel, such as giving/getting directions, haggling, ordering food). In this method you can have anyone speak and hear the translation in your ears!

They do 90+ other languages too and make a great travel accessory. Check them out here.

Get Your Visa Ahead of Time or In the Airport

Depending on where you are from , you may have to apply for your Egypt visa ahead of time, or you may be able to get it in the airport.

Eliot and I (American and Australian) got our visas in the airport – you must make sure to jump in the line right before passport control and pay $25 for a visas on arrival.

Alternatively, certain countries can get their visas online beforehand to skip the line. Many tour companies will help you do this if you book ahead of time, or you can do it online as well.

Is Egypt Safe? Know About Egypt Safety

The big question everyone asks is, ” Is Egypt Safe?” The answer is YES – Egypt is very safe. In fact, you may find Egypt MUCH safer than many large European cities in terms of different petty crimes.

Egypt is still shedding its bad rap from the Arab Spring back in 2012, which was over 10 years ago now, and a few incidents in the mid 2010’s. There are a few areas you should not go – such as ner the Libyan border, the Israeli border/Gaza strip in North Sini – but other than that you will find Egypt to be the most welcoming and hospitable place EVER – even for solo female travelers.

I’ll write another post about Egypt safety tips soon, but there are just a few main things you should remember especially as a solo traveler:

Make sure to be vigilant at all times. Book ubers to get around. Book group tours or hire a reputable guide for the main sights. If you are getting hassled by salesmen, remain silent and walk away. Stay in main areas. Organize pick-ups from trains and busses by your hotel/tour agencies.

Plan Your Itinerary of Where to Go in Egypt Beforehand

Egypt is much more diverse in terms of landscape and things to do than most know about. If you come here just to see Cairo and the pyramids, you will be sorely missing out on some of the best parts of the country.

From the deep blue waters of the Red Sea on Egypt’s east coast and South Sinai Peninsula, to the White and Black deserts in the center of the country, to the lush Nile River with ancient temples all along it, to the Mediterranean north coast, huge city of Cairo, and even remote desert oases, this country has SO MUCH to see. Here’s a shortlist of the best places to visit in Egypt:

• Cairo: Giza, Pyraimds of Dashur, Nile
• Nile River Cruise: Aswan, Luxor, Abu Simbel and more
• Alexandria: Hisroty + North Coast Beaches
• South Sinai Peninsula: Sharm El Shiekh, Nuweiba, Taba, and my FAVORITE place, Dahab
• East Coast: Hurghada, El Gouna Resort Town, Marsa Alam for Diving
• Deserts: Siwa Oasis, White Desert, Blaack Desert

Check out my full guide to the best places to visit in Egypt below:

Have Travel Insurance

It’s important to have travel insurance for every trip, but Egypt is especially important! We use Heymondo Travel Insurance and have done so for years. Check out Heymondo here or read our review of our experiences with them.

Students + Children Get Into Sites for CHEAP

It’s important to know to bring your student card to Egypt if you have one, because it will help you save a SIGNIFICANT amount of money on your trip.

Students get into sites for half price, and this adds up a LOT when on the Nile River Cruise and visiting all the museums, pyramids, and sites in Cairo. Children are cheaper also.

Pack/Dress Modestly for Egypt

In general people dress more modestly in Egypt, but not to the extent that many think. I would definitely err on the side of conservative outfits, but Egypt is still rather progressive in many ways. People are used to tourists here, and many locals also dress in tight clothing.

If you are somewhere like Dahab or Sharm, bathing suits are totally fine. But in Cairo, smaller villages, or in religious sites, make sure to have cover.

Prepare for Security Checks + Military Presence Everywhere

From the moment you get your bags and try to exit the airport, you will become familiar with Egyptian security checks. You may have your bags searched when leaving the airport and on any long drive through the country. There are MANY security checks on main highways where you may need to get out and have your bag looked at.

However, this is nothing to be afraid of and actually exists purely for your safety. Tourism is SO important to Egypt that they go to extreme measures to ensure tourist safety, and general safety too.

Police/Military Convoys

If you ever notice a car following you, it maybe actually be police/military ensuring you get to your destination safely. This is the extent to which Egypt wants tourists to be safe and have a positive experience… they will literally send escorts to ensure your safety on the roads after you arrive.

Don’t Bring a Drone

Leave your drone at home – or, in my case, ship it home from the previous airport before your arrival in Egypt. They will NOT allow your drone into the country. They will either confiscate it or store it at the airport for a fee, which adds up fast.

If you leave it at the airport, you will get a paper to get the drone back, and from what I hear, if you lose the paper you also lose your drone. In my case as a full time traveler it was safer to ship it home to my parents.

Travel Tips For Egypt Once You Arrive

These are the top tips for traveling to Egypt to know when you arrive in the country.

Get a Local Sim

Getting a local SIM card in Egypt is helpful for many reasons. It helps you stay safe and connected at all times, allows you to use translators and headphones at all times, and gives you a great connection all over the country for whatever you may need (because posting tons of IG stories will be important too 😉 )

You can grab a SIM at the Orange Kiosk right in the international airport when you arrive! Make sure your phone is unlocked and show your passport to get one. The main providers are Orange, Vodaphone, Etisalat, and We/Telekom. We used Vodaphone.

Don’t Drink the Tap Water

Tap water in Egypt is not for drinking! Make sure to remember this when you shower, brush your teeth, and more You can always get big water bottles from the shops or huge jugs to stay hydrated.

Know the Currency + Have it On You

The currency in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound, which at the time of publication was just under 20 to 1 USD. The Egyptian pound is abbreviated as EGP or LE.

It is wise to always have some cash on you while traveling in Egypt, especially smaller bills if possible. Many drivers or workers won’t have (or give) change for larger bills, and you will need to have small amounts for small tips as you visit big sites. More on that below.

Hiring a Guide/Tour Company Is Smart in Certain Situations

You’ll definitely want a guide for historic sites to give you important information about them and to help keep scammers and salesmen at bay. We hired a guide for all the pyramids in Cairo, for the Nile River Cruise , and some sites in South Sinai. Guided group tours would also be a great idea in Egypt.

Travel Tips for Egypt While Traveling

Here are some important things to know when visiting Egypt while you are traveling around.

Always Have Toilet Paper

One of the most important travel tips for Egypt is to always have toilet paper ON YOU! You will encounter many different kinds of toilets

Use Uber to Get Around Cities

Uber is the safest and cheapest way around Cairo, Alexandria, and more. This is safer for solo female travelers too. Uber’s set quote also enables you to know a fair price for the journey if you want to get a taxi.

Prepare to Tip, Tip, Tip… Nothing is Free

I did say that people are incredibly nice here, and they are, but it’s important to know that any worker who helps you with anything will expect a small tip.

While visiting any historic site there will be attendants there showing you where to go or perhaps offering to take a photo of you or have you take a photo of them. They will expect a tip for this. Hotel workers who help you with bags will expect a tip. Going to the bathroom often requires a small tip.

You can’t so much as take a picture of a camel without its owner coming over to you to ask for a tip. Be aware of this and be prepared to hand them a few pounds, or stand your ground!

Sometimes Photos Cost Extra

Apart from workers taking photos of you, many of the temples, historic sites, and pyramids charge an extra fee if you want to bring in a professional camera. Prepare to pay a few extra dollars to have a camera/tripod in many places in Egypt.

Some allow you to bring it in and some ask you to leave it at the front (I remember the catacombs in Alexandria did this). For the pyramids you only have to pay extra to use the camera INSIDE the pyramids. Taking photo/video with your phone is fine though.

Be Ready to Haggle + Be Aware of Scams/Bribes

Any salesman in Egypt will try and charge you 3-4x the price for anything at first to see if you will bite. You must be ready to HAGGLE like crazy for anything you want, and walk away when needed (they will always chase you). Ask a few different sellers the price for the same product to get an idea of where to start, and head to the back streets of markets for better prices.

And if you start haggling for something, be sure you actually might want it, because people may hound you for hours afterwards if they finally agree to the low price you said you wanted to pay (I had someone find me eating dinner a few streets away at the Khan El Khalili market in Cairo to agree to my price and I didn’t really even want it. Oops). Egypt is like the olympics of haggling. Get Ready.

People will charge you the maximum amount you are willing to pay for anything in Egypt, oftentimes bordering an actual scam.

Some Common Scams in Egypt are:

• Giving you a 50 Piastre note (like 50 cents) rather than 50 pound note. Know the difference.
• Paying a tiny amount for a camel ride at the pyramids and demanding more at the end. The government has set a price for camel rides at 350le. Don’t pay less or more.
• People have been known to sell fake papyrus (one of the most popular souvenirs) on the street made from other leaves, not papyrus.
• Taxis may try and overcharge you. This is why I use uber or at least always compare taxi fares to the uber quoted price.
• People may try and get you to pay bribes for a number of things – be aware!

Stay SILENT with Salesmen

Going to Egypt you must HAVE A THICK SKIN for hassling salesmen. Letting them ruin your experience would be a huge shame, and this happens to a lot of people. Don’t let it get to you, and try to have a laugh.

The best way to get rid of aggressive salesmen (if you don’t want something) is to REMAIN SILENT! I used to try and be nice and say ‘no thank you,’ ‘maybe later,’ etc, but this encourages them to find you again later, or follow you around. My Cairo tour guide told me the best move is silence, which I used for the rest of my trip, and it it truly the most respectful way to tell them to f*ck off! 😛

People May Want Photos With You

One of the funniest tips for visiting Egypt is that if you run into groups of schoolchildren or maybe domestic tourists from smaller villages, they often ask for photos with foreigners. It’s up to you if you want to oblige, but if you do, you may end up with a dozen people in line!

Probably DON’T Drive, Especially in Cairo

Cairo’s traffic is unlike anything I have ever seen. They even have their on honking language here, where certain honk patterns mean certain things. There are no lanes and there is no order. I would not drive in Cairo under any circumstance! Maybe in South Sinai or remote deserts, but certainly not Cairo or Alexandria.

Crossing the road is also an art in Cairo – make sure to stay safe crossing many lanes of haphazard traffic!

Travel Tips for Egypt Nile River Cruises

Nile River Cruises are pricier than many people expect, and they are also NOT relaxing at all but rather have a full-on schedule of early morning tample visits, some sailing, and evening visits/activities. However, we LOVED our Nile River Cruise and feel it’s the best way to see all the incredible temples of upper Egypt.

I feel there is a LOT of ambiguity surrounding Nile River Cruises and what they entail, so I wrote a whole post about them. Read my guide to booking a Nile River Cruise + How to Book Affordably.

Weekends are Friday-Saturday Here. Don’t Do Anything Touristy on A Friday.

Friday is basically the Islamic Sabbath and a day of worship, gathering, family, and friends. Friday in Egypt is like a Sunday in the US/Europe/Aus. So weekends begin Thursday night and end Saturday night.

So Friday is the day MANY locals choose to travel around, visit histpric sites, and take school groups around. This means any historic site will be uncomfortably crowded and you will now want to be anywhere near it. We ended up in Alexandria on a Friday and couldn’t get into the citadel, and our second visit to the pyramids was a Friday which we immensely regretted.

That’s all for now for travel tips Egypt requires! Let me know if you have any questions in the comments below or feel free to reach out/follow me on instagram .

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17 Useful Things To Know Before Traveling To Egypt

To date, Egypt remains one of the most challenging places I have ever visited. With the number of Egyptian friends I have (and that often took me around while I was in Cairo), you’d imagine everything would have gone smoothly. But it didn’t, and there were so many things I wish I had known before traveling to Egypt. 

You see, Egypt is a gorgeous country, with a unique, complicated, and incredibly interesting history; it has a rich culture, and there are lots to see and do. Add to this the friendly people – some of the most generous you can hope to meet – and the tasty food, and you can see why the country world-famous for the Pyramids is a favorite tourist destination. 

Yet, it’s worth asking yourself a number of questions before visiting Egypt – and looking for answers for them. So, I thought I’d come to assist you and tell you everything you need to know before traveling to Egypt and share a few Egypt travel tips that will help you make your trip a smoother one.

Table of Contents

17 Things To Consider Before Traveling To Egypt

Is egypt safe.

The first question most travelers ask themselves before considering a trip to Egypt is whether the country is safe. If you are thinking of traveling to Egypt, you need to understand that this is an extremely complex country. Though you can visit independently, I wouldn’t recommend a trip that is spontaneous and not properly organized. 

In the past few years, Egypt has notably been the target of terrorist attacks targeting both tourists and Egyptians; and since the protests that started with the Arab Spring (and which unfortunately didn’t bring much improvement in the daily life of Egyptian citizens), much turmoil has been reported. Yet, violent crimes against tourists are not a common issue – though you need to beware of scams and petty crime (more about this later).

With this in mind, the best place to look for updated and accurate information about any sort of security concerns would be your government travel advisory – for US travelers, it’s this one; whereas this is the British Government travel advisory. 

My experience in Egypt was good and I never felt unsafe – but remember, I spent most of my time there with local friends. Keep in mind, anyways, that no place in the world is 100% safe – I was in New York on 9/11, and only know too well. 

Army is everywhere

Going back to the issue of safety, one thing you will notice when traveling to Egypt is that there is a strong military presence (from this point of view, it’s similar to Israel actually!). Soldiers with heavy-duty rifles are everywhere, in all major tourist sites (in fact, in all hotels, stations, and tourist landmarks you will have to go through airport-style security). This should not intimidate you at all! Remember that Egypt relies a lot on tourism and making sure tourists are and feel safe is important. 

Scams, hassling and bribery are an issue

This was probably the most challenging thing for me when I was traveling to Egypt. Not a day went by without someone trying to lure me into a scam, or trying to bribe money out of me. Not even when I was with my local friends. In some places – the Pyramids comes to mind now – I was literally followed around by street vendors – but it could have been carriage drivers, or people offering camel rides – who couldn’t take no for an answer. It was annoying, to say the least, and it partially ruined my experience. 

In a country that relies so heavily on tourism, where the Egyptian Pound has lost value even more dramatically in the last few years and where salaries are incredibly low, many see tourists as an easy buck and rely on tips and bribes to make a living. 

Just make sure you go prepared, and thicken your skin, because the level of harassment you will experience in Egypt is extreme. A polite but firm no is the way to go – and if that doesn’t work, just ignore it. And remember that nothing is free – not even taking photos of a camel you see in the distance. 

You need a visa

You will need a visa for traveling to Egypt. Citizens of many countries can get an online visa really easily. For example, if you’re traveling from the UK you’ll need a valid passport and an Egypt visa for British citizens.

Though you also have the option of getting your visa at the airport when you arrive (you can buy it at the National Bank of Egypt counter before immigration for $25 USD), I recommend you do it online, as this will save you the hassle of having to stand in line at the airport to get your visa. The online process will take you a few minutes, and if you have everything in order your Egyptian e-visa will be sent to you via email in a day or two.

Tourists’ visas for Egypt are valid for 30 days and your passport must have at least 6 months validity from your scheduled return date.

The visa is valid for 30 days and you must have a passport with at least 6 months validity beyond your scheduled return date. 

Travel insurance is essential

Travel insurance is something I recommend getting for any trip – including a trip to Egypt. Get yours here.

A local SIM card will be handy

One of my Egypt travel tips that will truly help you during your trip is having a local SIM card, and if your phone is unlocked you can get one as soon as you land at Cairo International Airport. You will find an Orange Kiosk at the arrivals, close to baggage claim. You will need to show your passport – the overall process takes no more than a few minutes. 

Tipping is expected

Salaries are low in Egypt, and although there is no set of rules and tipping is meant to be optional, it pretty much is mandatory – so you can safely assume you will have to tip for just about any service. The porter takes your bag from the car to the door? TIP! Bathroom attendant? TIP! Waiter at a restaurant offers to take a photo of you and your family? TIP! Tour driver? Definitely tip! You get the idea.

If you come from a tipping culture, this will be easier for you. It was not the case for me, as tipping in Italy is not really a thing – and I had to learn quickly, to avoid any embarrassing situation. So, be prepared to always have some small change for you and to tip anything between 5 and 10 % of the price you paid.

Beware that everything has an additional fee 

One of the things I found really confusing when visiting Egypt was that for whatever thing I paid for, I had to pay an additional fee for a full service. So for example, if you visit the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, you will have to pay the regular ticket and, on top of that, a separate ticket to visit the Royal Mummy exhibit; if you visit the Pyramid, there is a separate fee for the burial chambers (which are so bare, it’s not worth paying, to be honest!). Not to mention, each and every site has an additional charge for photography permits. 

You may want to avoid traveling to Egypt during Ramadan (or not)

The majority of Egyptians are Muslims, and they will observe Ramadan, and will thus fast during that time. Though it is perfectly fine to visit Egypt during Ramadan, whether or not you do so is completely up to you. Tourists usually observe little differences – it’s business as usual – but opening hours for many places change, and eating or drinking in public is frowned upon, and many places won’t serve alcohol (which, by the way, is easy to find in Egypt). If none of these things bothers you, you may want to go then: it may be quite an enriching experience.

And in the summer months

When should you be traveling to Egypt? Let me put it this way: definitely not in the summer months!

The heat during the summer months is fierce, with temperatures getting well above 40° C (104° F) on any given day, sometimes going as high as 55° C (that’s 130° F). While the south of Egypt – Luxor, and Aswan – is dry, humidity in the North – Alexandria, and Cairo – is high and adds to the heat.

With this in mind, you should avoid visiting Egypt between May and September. The best time to visit is between October and March, with the largest crowds in December and January. I visited between the end of April and the beginning of May, and day temperatures were typically 30° C (86° F) and above. 

Driving is crazy

I have been to a lot of countries where driving is insane, but honestly, nothing compares to Egypt when it comes to driving. The combination of high amounts of cars on the streets, no such thing as speed limits, no traffic lights, no understanding of lanes, and everyone on their horns means that it just is crazy. There is no time of day or night when traffic stops, and the only place you can escape cars in Cairo is the Citadel.

You may think that traffic is not as bad outside of cities and in rural areas – but if anything, it is worse. Road conditions are bad, with two-lane roads where the center is used to pass (in both directions) regularly causing heart attacks to unaware tourists. Add to this the fact that people have a thing for speeding and that there are regular checkpoints, and you will easily conclude that renting a car is out of the question. 

Another thing to keep in mind is that there are no zebra lines or crossing lanes either. If you want to cross the street, your best bet will be to follow a group of locals and hope for the best.

Dressing modestly is recommended

Egypt is a conservative country. Unless you are visiting a hipster bar in Zamalek, Cairo’s most up-and-coming neighborhood, you really are better off covering your arms, legs, chest, and shoulder. It’s a sign of respect, and it will save you from unwanted harassment. 

There is a lot to see 

Egypt is a beautiful country, with an incredible history and stunning landmarks. Cairo itself, with the impressive Egyptian Museum, the Citadel, the many mosques, the Coptic Cairo, Khal el Khalili market, and the hipster Zamalek and Mohandessin deserve at least 5 days – one alone to visit the Giza Pyramids), and if you have an extra one you can take a day trip to the lesser-known pyramids of Saqqara (where the burial chambers of King Teti are actually incredibly ornate and well kept) and Dahshur.

Alexandria, on the shores of the Mediterranean, can be visited on a day trip from Cairo too.

Other places you should definitely consider visiting are Luxor, home of the Karnak Temple Complex, where you can see the tomb of Ramses V and VI (KV 9); Awan, where you can see the stunning Philae Temple; Abu Simbel, closer to the border with Sudan, where the temple dedicated to Ramesses II is located. And if you like diving, or want to relax at the beach, you may want to make your way to Hurghada or Dahab.

Consider joining a guided tour

Even though you may personally prefer traveling to Egypt independently, and you are the kind of person who doesn’t like a guided tour, I beg you to reconsider. Your time in the country will be a whole lot better if you actually have an expert local guide – and even better, an Egyptologist – and a driver.

An expert guide will be able to share all sorts of relevant information on the sites you will be visiting, giving it historical and cultural context. He will be able to inform you about the local customs and traditions, and even about scams. 

A driver will be able to dodge the terrible local traffic and take you safely to all the best places to visit. 

Tap water is not safe to drink

If there is a country where tap water is not safe to drink, that is Egypt. Not only you should directly avoid drinking tap water, but you should not even use tap water to brush your teeth, and you should avoid things such as salads and cocktails with ice unless you are 100% sure that tap water has not been used. As plastic waste (in fact, waste in general) is a major issue in Egypt I recommend carrying a Lifestraw water bottle and filter and refilling regularly.

Droning is out of the question

In order to fly a drone in Egypt you need to get a license from the Ministry of Defense – which, as a foreigner, you can’t obtain. Unless you want to risk having your drone confiscated at the airport, face a fine and even end up in jail (which really, honestly, truly you want to avoid in this country), you are way better off leaving your drone at home. 

Nile River cruises are expensive

Although I really wanted to, I ended up not doing a Nile River cruise during my trip to Egypt, because it was way more expensive than I thought it would be – especially if booked with a good company with good reviews.

Another thing you should beware of is that during the cruise you actually have very little time at attractions (which you typically visit with a large group of other passengers) – most of the time is spent commuting from the port where you are docked to the actual attraction. You don’t even cruise that much, in the end!

A good alternative to a traditional luxury river cruise may be sailing on a traditional Egyptian felucca – but keep in mind it is not nearly as comfortable. 

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Egypt Travel Tips: 20+ Things You Need to Know Before Travelling to Egypt

Planning your trip to Egypt and not sure where to start. Don’t stress – this guide is packed with all the Egypt travel tips you need to know before you go. 

One day I’ll stop raving about my recent trip to Egypt … but that day is not today. If you’ve read my recent Egypt Itinerary , you’ll know that I had the most magical time in Egypt. 

It was a trip filled with awe and wonder – from gawping at the pyramids in Cairo to seeing the tomb of Tutankhamun in Luxor , Egypt was one of those rare much-hyped destinations that did not disappoint. 

That’s not to say that I didn’t have a few (OK, tonnes) of questions before I travelled to the country. Like how should I prepare for a trip to Egypt? What are the dos and don’ts in Egypt? Of course, I also had questions about the best way to travel in the country too. 

I’m guessing that if I had those questions, if you have a trip to Egypt on your radar, you’re also going to have them too. 

That’s why I’ve written this super-detailed guide  – all the things to know before travelling to Egypt – broken down into practical and actionable tips. Pack your bags peeps, we’re going on an adventure. 

PS: I even created a super-quick video with many of these tips. Check it out! 

@thediscoveriesof Travelling to Egypt? Yallah, yallah! I got you 🙌🏾 #egypt #egypttravel #egypttravelguide #egyptrip #egypttravels #cometravelwithme ♬ original sound – thediscoveriesof

Top 5 Egypt Travel Tips

Apply for Your Egypt Travel Visa Online

Before finding out the best way to travel in Egypt, you kind of need to make sure you’ve got the actual entering the country part of things covered. 

Citizens of most countries need a visa to enter Egypt (there are ten exceptions). It used to be the case that you’d have to get a visa on arrival at the airport (and this is still an option) but the Egyptian authorities have expedited the process and released an Egypt e-visa. 

To apply online, you only need your passport (or ID if you’re from certain countries) and host information for your accommodation in Egypt to apply online. You can stay for up to 30 days and need to pay a small fee with your application.

Inform Your Bank That You’re Visiting Egypt Before You Travel

Inform your bank well ahead of time when and where you’ll be travelling so you can use your bank account for international payments. 

Egypt’s currency is the Egyptian Pound. It’s not as strong as the British Pound or US Dollar, so if you’re from either of those countries you should have a pretty affordable time while you’re there (obvs this depends on how much cash you want to splash on things like hotels and tours).

You’ll find many ATMs dotted around which allow easy money withdrawals. You might struggle a bit more in smaller towns and villages, so have extra cash for them. 

Dress Conservatively  

Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country that is still quite traditional. You should dress conservatively to respect the religion and local culture.

Men’s dress codes are more relaxed: as long as you cover your shoulders and wear trousers, you’re broadly OK. 

Women, you have to follow stricter rules. If you’re a female traveller, pack loose-fitting clothes covering your shoulders, chest, and knees. 

If you’re visiting a mosque or holy building, you’ll need to wear clothes covering your elbows, legs and head.

Fortunately, if you fancy a swim at your private hotel, you can bring your usual bikini or swimsuit. These rules only apply to public spaces and religious areas.

I’ve written a whole guide for what to pack for Egypt , which goes into a lot more detail about what to wear, but thought it was worth flagging here. 

Don’t Expect to Be Able to Pay for Everything in Egypt with Your Card 

I don’t know about you, but these days I pretty much never use cash at home to pay for things, preferring to pay for things using contactless on my phone. 

Things are a bit different in Egypt. 

While paying by card is not generally a problem for many larger places – like hotels, bigger restaurants and supermarkets – it can be a problem in smaller shops and (more surprisingly) at the ticket booths to some of the landmarks. 

For example, although you can pay for your tickets to the pyramids with a card, the card machine often isn’t working – so it’s better not to rely on a card as your only option.

This also happened (the card machine was out of order) when I wanted to pay for Nefertari’s tomb in Luxor’s Valley of the Queens . It was totally fine because I had cash, but as there is no ATM nearby, it would have been a very disappointing situation if I hadn’t. 

Key takeaway? Bring cash. 

Keep Safety in Mind

While Egypt is a relatively safe place to visit, it still requires some vigilance as petty crimes, like pickpocketing, are common. 

There are a few things you can do to help yourself stay safe like ensuring you have valuables packed away out of sight – but the biggest one is really being aware of your surroundings.

The Egyptian authorities have lots of safeguards in place to protect tourists during their time in the country. These include having large numbers of “Tourism Police” in place, particularly at landmarks and touristy spots like Khan el Khalili market in Cairo.

If you do run into any problems, or need help – the Tourism Police should be your first port of call. Not only are they geared up to help tourists, but they’re also more likely to speak some English too. 

Tip: Read my Ridge Wallet review for a travel-safe wallet review.

Egypt Travel Tips: Things to Know Before Visiting Egypt 

Egypt is a big country with a long history of royalty, tragedy, and overcoming. So, it’s not surprising that there is also a long list of things to know before travelling to Egypt. To prepare you, here are the essential travel to Egypt tips.

Plan Your Trip for the Best Time to Visit Egypt

Egypt has a dry and hot climate dominated by the desert. It is almost always sunny, with occasional rainfall along the coast. 

The average expected highs in summer are 40°C (104°F), while the average lows in winter are 9.5°C (49 °F).

The best time to visit is between October and April to get pleasantly sunny weather without the extreme summer heat. Out of all three seasons that occur during these months, autumn, which happens between September and November, is the best time to visit.

This way, you avoid big crowds and miss spring’s sandy winds. Daytime highs range between 25°C-30°C, while evenings are a bit chilly. 

Plus, if you visit in October, there’s a good chance you’ll also experience the Abu Simbel Sun Festival– a bi-annual festival celebrating Ramses II, when the light touches the inner sanctum in the stunning Main Temple. 

Or Don’t…. 

I have to be honest – I totally ignored this advice and travelled at the beginning of June. 

Guess what? It. Was. Hot. 

I’m pretty comfortable in the heat and I’ll tell you, there were points in Luxor and Aswan where I was so hot I didn’t know what to do with myself. 

There were two significant upsides travelling at that time though: fewer crowds and cheaper prices. It’s up to you to decide. 

Learn Key Phrases

While most people in Egypt speak Egyptian Arabic, English is widely spoken and understood. You’ll especially encounter this if you stick to major cities like Cairo, Luxor and Alexandria near tourist hotspots, hotels, and resorts.

That said, learning a few Egyptian Arabic phrases wouldn’t harm. This handy Egyptian Arabic phrasebook will be a lifeline while in the country. 

Tip: Always carry your hotel’s business card with you if you get lost or encounter a language barrier with taxi drivers.

Haggle, Haggle, Haggle

One of the best tips on travelling to Egypt is that you can haggle (almost) every price at the markets and bazaars. It takes a bit of practising, but once you get your intended price, it can be so rewarding. 

Sometimes you can also haggle your taxi fare before entering the car. There are three types of taxis you can hail:

• The black taxis are usually old and don’t have metres, so you must negotiate a fare beforehand and stick to the negotiated price.
• The white taxis have metres and air-conditioning. But always check if the metre is running to avoid inflated prices. 
• The yellow taxis are expensive and only available through a cab service.

Solo Travel Tips for Egypt 

If you’re travelling solo or travelling as a woman, Egypt can seem a bit intimidating. But, that doesn’t have to be the case. 

Here are the best ways to tour Egypt as a solo traveller:

• If you’re travelling by train, the front cars on trains and streetcars are exclusively for women on many routes.
• Get a guide to show you around rather than walk around alone at night. They’ll also be able to tell you insider tips or info about the areas.
• Dress conservatively to respect the culture and avoid negative responses from people who feel you might not be honouring their customs.

Book Flights Wisely 

One of the top things to know when travelling to Egypt is knowing how to get the best deals on flights.

Typically, booking your flights in May or September is the cheapest as it is shoulder season. You’ll also save a few bucks if you book your flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays around midday. But, typically, flights are very affordable regardless of what time of the year you visit.

Good tips for travelling to Egypt or anywhere in the world is, if you travel often, apply for a rewards program with your airline or credit card provider. It offers many perks, including a few occasional free flights. 

Tip: EgyptAir offers fantastic direct flights from most countries, but notable airlines to also be aware of are Etihad Airlines, British Airways, and Emirates. Check flights on Skyscanner now.

Not Every ATM Works With Every Card in Egypt

Picture this – you go to an ATM to withdraw cash. You know you’ve got enough money in your bank account, but when you try and take your cash out, the transaction fails, the screen flashes an error message and the machine spits your card straight back into your hand. 

Don’t panic. 

Not every Egyptian ATM works with every international card. 

I can’t tell you the rhyme or reason behind which ones work and which ones don’t but try a few different banks before you panic. 

Obviously that’s a lot easier in places like Cairo and Luxor where there are lots of banks close to each other – I’d always recommend withdrawing before you run out of cash to try and head off any problems if one or two don’t play nicely with your card. 

Buy a Local Egyptian Sim Card (Or an E-Sim) 

While you’re in Egypt, it’s best to get a local sim card, just in case you’re not near an internet connection. You can buy a prepaid sim card at the kiosks at the airport. For your phone to work, you need to unlock it to be able to roam internationally. You can use this site to check if your phone will work abroad.

One near-magical (but more expensive) alternative is to get an e-sim for your phone. Rather than operating through an actual sim – an e-sim is a digital sim that you can operate in tandem with your normal simcard. 

There are a few benefits to using an e-sim over the traditional local-sim route. 

The first is that you can buy the e-sim before you travel, so it’s ready to go the moment you land. The second is that you can still keep your normal number for Whatsapp, voice calls and text messages. 

Overall, I’d recommend using an e-sim but it is more expensive – mine from Airalo cost $56 for 6GB over 14 days, which is still a lot cheaper than using roaming on my normal sim, but pricier than the local sim. 

Use a VPN to Browse the Internet

Almost every cafe in the big cities has Wi-Fi, but using public Wi-Fi can be unsafe as you risk making yourself vulnerable to hackers. 

If you use public Wi-Fi, use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to keep your data secure. 

Get Tourist Cards for Free Access to Many Historical and Cultural Sites

The Cairo Pass offers entrance to sites in Cairo, Giza, Dahshur, Mit Rahina, and Saqqara. 

You need your passport, two photocopies of your main passport page, and two passport photos to get this pass. You can buy it at the Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities office and a few other attractions.

The Luxor Pass offers entry to all archaeological sites on the east and west bank of Luxor. You can purchase this pass at the visitor centre of the Valley of Kings and Karnak Temple.

Try Local Food, but Avoid Tap Water

Egyptian food is a fragrant blend of spices with recipes perfected over centuries. This cuisine offers many vegetarian-friendly options, but you can also get some meaty main meals.

I’m not even going to start on the falafel. THE FALAFEL. Drool. 

Not only will you get an authentic taste when you buy street food at markets, but you can also save a few bucks.

While it is essential to stay hydrated, don’t drink Egypt’s tap water. Instead, buy bottled water. Bring your own bottle for a more environmentally friendly alternative (although understand that there will be limited places for you to refill it).

Dos and Don’ts in Egypt: A Quick Guide

Travel hack your way through your trip to Egypt with these handy do’s and don’ts while you’re there.

Do use public transport like metros to get around at a reasonable price.

Don’t forget to stay hydrated, apply sunblock often, and bring your sunglasses. One of the most vital travel tips in Egypt people forget is that it is a desert climate with lots of sun and heat.

Do bring in small amounts of cash into Egypt, as there is a limit on the amount of money you can bring into the country. Don’t bring more than 10,000 USD.

Don’t forget to tip. The average tip percentage for waitstaff, tour guides, and taxi drivers is between five and 10%.

Do take many pictures of the ancient artefacts and structures but don’t take photos of any officials without consent. It is also prohibited to take photographs of the infrastructures outside of tourist hotspots.

Don’t neglect to download a currency conversion app like XE.com to keep tabs on how much money you’re spending. 

Travelling to Egypt: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Here are the best tips and tricks on how to travel to Egypt and where to stay while you’re in the beautiful country.

What to See

The best way to tour Egypt is to visit the best tourist hotspots. Besides the regular visits to the pyramids, consider these tours and trips too.

• Dinner Cruise on the Nile  
• Cairo and Giza Full-Day
• Private Cairo Tour
• Full-Day Plane Trip to Cairo

Where to Stay

One of my top tips for travelling to Egypt is finding accommodation near the city centre. Where you stay in Egypt also depends on what you hope to see on your trip.

As the country’s capital, it is no surprise that Cairo is many people’s top pick. It is modern compared to its historic buildings with many restaurants, coffee shops, and shopping malls.

Home to the jaw-dropping Valley of the Kings, Luxor is full of history and some of Egypt’s most stunning sights. 

This beach resort is great for beach lovers hoping to get in some scuba diving and snorkelling. It also has a lively nightlife and many restaurants to enjoy.

Alexandria will show you a different side of Egypt, especially if you’re interested in ancient Egypt. It is also on the coast of the Mediterranean sea, which will provide amazing views while travelling. 

Aswan takes you back in time with its scenery of the Nile Valley and its sailboats. It’s the perfect place to visit to avoid crowds due to its peaceful aura.

Best Travel Tips for Egypt: Frequently Asked Questions 

Keep these travelling to Egypt tips in mind when planning your trip and when you’re in the country.

How do I Prepare for a Trip to Egypt?

Read this guide of course! 

Other than that, a few top tips are to consider Egypt’s time zone (GMT +2) when booking flights or activities. You should also keep this in mind in terms of jet lag. 

Stay hydrated before, during, and after your flights to combat these effects.

What Should I Avoid in Egypt?

Avoid travelling close to risky areas like the Libyan and Israeli borders – and the Gaza strip. These areas are under strict military supervision. 

What is Forbidden in Egypt?

Egyptian Laws strictly forbid tourists to take pictures of or near military installations. You also shouldn’t take photographs of public buildings and infrastructures, such as train stations and bridges. To use drones for overhead shots, you must obtain permission from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

Things to Know When Travelling to Egypt: Read Next

• The Perfect 10-Day Egypt Itinerary
• Brilliant Things to do in Egypt
• The Ultimate Egypt Travel Guide
• The Best Time to Visit Egypt
• Brilliant Things to do in Cairo, Egypt
• Unmissable Things to do in Luxor
• The Ultimate Egypt Packing List
• Top Tips for Booking a Nile River Cruise

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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The Top 9 Egypt Travel Tips I Wish I Had Known

by Maggie McKneely | Feb 11, 2022 | Egypt | 25 comments

Last Updated on November 22, 2023 by Maggie McKneely

Planning a trip to the land of the pharaohs? Here are the top 9 Egypt travel tips you need to know!

*This post contains affiliate links. That just means that if you happen to click on one of those links and end up making a purchase, I make a small commission (and you will have made my day!)

Table of Contents

Top 9 Egypt Travel Tips

For those of us from Western nations, Egypt is a different planet. While it has been a popular tourist destination since….well, basically forever, it still is completely unlike our home countries. So, before traveling to Egypt, I read practically every blog post and article there is to read on things travelers should know about the land of the Pharaohs. Is it safe? What clothes should you wear (especially women)? Can you drink the water? What about the culture? Where can I ride camels?! (Let’s be honest, that was my most important question).

While I found lots of helpful information, much of what I read ended up being completely WRONG. So I feel the need to set the record straight on a number of questions, as well as give you some other tips I wish I had known before visiting Egypt .

1) You can wear what you want (just be respectful!)

The first of my Egypt travel tips: you can wear what you want (even if you’re a woman!). Yes, Egypt is a conservative Muslim country. The majority of Egyptian women wear headscarves, and many keep themselves completely covered. But Egypt is also very used to tourists from around the world and how they dress. Women in Cairo often pair their hijabs with skinny jeans, tight shirts, and pounds of makeup. I saw locals wearing eyebrow-raising outfits more often than the tourists!

I asked our native Egyptian tour guide for the truth about what Egyptians think foreigners should wear when in Egypt. His answer? Egyptians don’t care. There are no set rules (such as not wearing sleeveless shirts), and as long as you dress modestly, you’ll be fine. Unlike other Arab nations, Egypt is very open and tolerant to different cultures and ways of living. They don’t force outsiders to wear or do anything that they don’t want to do. For example, when we visited the Mohamed Ali Mosque, we non-Muslims were not even expected to wear a headscarf (even though every single article I read before the trip said the opposite).

I had also read that women who don’t wear headscarves are more likely to get harassed. I never felt harassed by anyone except the street vendors who wanted money for something. I certainly got lots of compliments (Egyptians are definitely more forward than the men at home, especially towards pale, blonde women), but I never felt uncomfortable because I was dressed like a normal Western female.

I always had a scarf with me because of all the blogs I read beforehand, but I ended up wearing just because I liked it and not because I needed it

An interesting thing our tour guide said was that Egyptians do prefer American and British tourists because they at least read articles on what to wear before visiting Egypt and try to be respectful, whereas other Europeans do not – many of them have no qualms about wearing string bikinis or going topless while vacationing at resorts on the Red Sea. I can’t confirm the veracity of this claim (I’m sure there are plenty of Americans who read nothing before visiting Egypt), but our tour guide made clear that so long as you try to be respectful, no one actually cares what you wear.

For more clothing suggestions, check out my full list of what to pack for Egypt .

2) You don’t need to use Egyptian Pounds

Don’t be me: don’t exchange dollars for a bunch of Egyptian pounds (EGP), expecting to use all of those EGP while in Egypt. Because it turns out that that is much harder than I expected it to be.

One of those good-to-know Egypt travel tips is if you need to exchange money for something while in Egypt, ATMs are very common. There were only two instances where we absolutely had to pay in cash with Egyptian pounds: King Tut’s Tomb in the Valley of the Kings and the ticket for going inside the Great Pyramid at Giza . Everywhere else took credit cards, Egyptian Pounds, or American Dollars. Euros were less common, but some places took those too. Much to my surprise, many places and people actually preferred dollars to anything else because they are worth more.

Egyptian pounds are useful for street vendors because they are more likely to have change in EGP, so it is useful to have at least some on hand. But you won’t need them for every purchase on your trip.

3) Nothing is free – NOTHING

Speaking of money, if you learn nothing else from this list, remember this most important of all Egypt travel tips: literally nothing is free in Egypt. Not the toilet paper in the bathroom (more on that later), not taking pictures of random camels, not having locals take pictures of you – NOTHING. Everyone expects a tip for any service done for you, even if you don’t consider it to be a service.

For example, we visited the Pyramids on our very first day in Egypt. At the base of the pyramids was a camel. We wanted to take picture of said camel with the pyramid in the background, and so we did. Next thing we know, the camel’s owner comes running up, asking us to pay him for letting us take a picture of his camel. He proceeded to follow us all the way back to our bus, demanding money.

We learned our lesson after that, but this incident happened over and over again on our trip. People would offer to take pictures of us in some temple, or tell us information about a painting, or even just hold a door open for us. Next thing you know, they are demanding money for doing something nice for you. Moral of the story: do not take anyone up on their offer to do anything for you, unless you are willing to pay for it.

The not-so-free-to-photograph camel

4) Bring your own toilet paper

Yes, you read that correctly. Ok, I lied, also remember this other most important of my Egypt travel tips: bring your own toilet paper stash!

Why this isn’t highlighted in bold and neon colors in every “Egypt travel tips” article on the internet is beyond me.

According to our tour guide, Egyptians don’t use toilet paper, so they only have it because the tourists use it. And that’s when the bathrooms actually have it stocked. Which, 90% of the time, they don’t. Or, they have a lady in the bathroom who expects you to pay her for giving you two squares of toilet paper. So you can save yourself a lot of confusion and annoyance by just keeping your own roll in your purse (for the ladies, anyway).

My mom swiped this from one of our hotels when we realized none of the bathrooms were going to have toilet paper lolololol

5) Get your visa at the airport

Most people arriving in Egypt must get an Egyptian visa. There are two ways to get one of these: online ahead of time, or at the Cairo airport when you arrive. If you’re like me, you may think “oh I’ll just get it online and save myself the trouble of dealing with it in Egypt.”

The next on my list of Egypt travel tips: DON’T do that. Wait to buy the visa at the airport. It’s $25 USD cash (yes, you must have cash). It’s a very easy process and doesn’t take more than a couple of minutes. If you try to do it online, the website is not user-friendly and can take weeks to be approved. One friend on the trip with me tried to do it online and wasn’t actually approved until the day before we LEFT Egypt. He ended up having to spend money to get it at the airport (since the online process was so slow) and for the one he tried to get online.

So save yourself the trouble and just get it at the Cairo airport. This is one of those rare times where doing it online is not actually the most efficient option.

6) Have a tour guide

I’m one of those people who prefers to make all of my own travel arrangements and will only hire a guide if I’m short on time in a city or really want to make sure I learn all of the important things. But I’ve never been anywhere where I was so thankful to have a tour guide along with us for the trip as I was in Egypt.

For starters, Egypt is, obviously, extremely historic. But for some reason, there are little to no informational signs anywhere! Not in the museums, not at the temples, nothing. And if there is something, the sign or plaque is out of date by several decades. Without a guide, it’d be very easy to go to Egypt and say “I saw the pyramids and some impressive statues but I didn’t learn anything about them!” And how sad would that be?

Look at those impressive statues!

Second, Egypt is very chaotic and the language barrier is real. Finding out what time sites open, how much tickets cost, how to get from point A to point B would not be easy without having someone who knows what’s what to help you.

Because my trip was booked through a tour agency (read my Exoticca review here!), we had one tour guide with us for the whole week. But if you don’t want to do that, I suggest at least hiring a guide for all of the important sites. You won’t regret it. You can find a lot of great Egypt tours here .

7) Don’t rent a car

Seriously. Just don’t even think about it. There are absolutely no rules and no insurance. Ubers are plentiful. Use them.

(For the record, I did already assume this was true before my trip, but I just want to emphasize it here in case you’re holding out hope that you can drive yourself around Egypt)

This is why you are not going to rent a car

8) Let the kids take pictures with you

After our experience at the pyramids, the cynic in me thought that the hordes of children that kept coming up to us were just trying to get money. Fortunately, it didn’t take long to discover that that was not what was happening at all!

Between Egypt’s revolution in 2011 and the COVID years, Egypt has not had many tourists in the past decade. The numbers were so low, in fact, that many schoolchildren have never met a foreigner! Now that tourism is returning, the kids have a competition with each other to see who can take the most selfies with international tourists.

So if you are a white, blonde, obviously non-Egyptian like myself – you might be frequently mobbed by children. Don’t worry – all they want is your picture!

9) Yes, Egypt is safe!

The top question everyone asked when I said I was going to Egypt was “but is it safe?” And to be honest, that was the first thing I googled when I booked my trip (“whoops, now that I have paid money to go on this trip, guess I should make sure I’ll get home in one piece”).

And it’s a fair question. For westerners, “The Middle East” evokes images of suicide bombs and radical jihadists. And Egypt itself, with its revolution and the rise of the Muslim brotherhood and subsequent ISIS attacks, does not have a scot-free safety record in the past decade.

But nowadays, Egypt (at least the tourist areas) is very, very safe, for both group and solo travelers to Egypt . Yes, there are parts of the country that are off-limits, like the Sinai peninsula, due to terrorist activity. But there isn’t anything there that you’d want to see anyway! Everywhere else is heavily patrolled by military men with AK-47s. Every hotel and tourist site has a bag scanner and extra security measures. And, due to an agreement between the US and Egypt, every tour group that has an American must have its own personal security guard. As someone who lives in downtown Washington DC , I felt much safer in Egypt than I do at home!

tanks and large guns are a very common site in Egypt

Other blogs give a very detailed list of why people think Egypt isn’t safe and why they are wrong – this one is a great example. So I won’t go into an in-depth explanation here because others have already done the work. But know that the Egyptians have a vested interest in keeping tourists safe – tourism is their main economy, after all. And the locals are extremely welcoming and friendly! So the last of my Egypt travel tips: Do not let the fear of Egypt being unsafe keep you from visiting.

No matter how much or how little you prepare, there will be things you didn’t expect when traveling to Egypt, which is all part of the adventure! It’s an incredible country with the nicest people, amazing historic sites, and gorgeous scenery. I hope this list helps you take a little bit of the stress out of your planning and make the most of your journey to the land of camels, mummies, and pyramids!

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25 Comments

Wow, I learned a lot about Egypt from this post.

Such great tips! Especially the toilet paper. Always important to have some extra tissue in a day pack. I can’t wait to go and put all that I learned in this post into practice.

Honestly, I read a whole blog post word by word after such a long time. I loved reading your blog post. You have mentioned some very great insider tips.

I heard about nothing being free from a few friends. It is a bit saddening to read as 10 years ago this was not the case. Nevertheless, thanks for sharing these super useful tips.

This is such an incredibly helpful guide and a must-read for anyone before they visit Egypt. I particularly found the nothing is free to tip helpful. I honestly dislike when people expect me to pay for something when I am unaware of the expectation. So – thank you for that. All around incredibly useful tips.

Great advice! If I ever visit Egypt, these recommendations will be a big help.

Wow, that really is very helpful info. Egypt is definitely on the bucket list so I’ll be sure to refer back to this when I do get to go. Thanks so much.

I haven’t been to Egypt yet so this is really good to know. Thanks for sharing your tips!

Great post – heading to Hurghada and a trip to Luxor in 3 weeks so these tips were great – I will have the toilet paper with me just in case! Do you think it a good idea to take sweets to give to the children when they come up to us or would that cause an almighty riot between them?

Enjoy your trip!! I don’t think it would hurt! One of the guys on our trip frequently gave out his extra food to the street kids. Most of the people are very poor, so it was appreciated, but it might also make them ask for more from you. I would suggest using your discretion.

Great tips! I wish I knew them before I went to Egypt too. I am planning to return again soon though!

So many great tips. Some I would have never thought of. Others such as “nothing is free” would be great to know as well. And the custom of what is traditional to pay for services such as taking a pic of a person’s camel.

This is so helpful! You answered so many of thr questions I had about going. Thank you!

Saving these tips! Good to know we should not rent a car!

Great tips! I never knew all of these little things about Egypt! Thanks for the helpful insights.

This is so informative. I love your tip that Egypt is safe. That’s encouraging. I would love to visit but I’ve wondered whether that’s wise. Pinning this for future travel!

Great post. Brought back some good (and not so good) memories of our 2012 trip. At that time I was happy to have a scarf to cover my head after being yelled at by a group of men in Cairo. Glad to hear things have changed!

Wow, this is so useful! I would never think to bring my own toilet paper haha… Always wanted to visit Egypt, hopefully soon!

We visited Egypt and did not get everywhere we wanted. So it is definitely on our list for a return visit. So good to get some tips for when we plan to travel around on our own. Good tip about when you will need cash. We are always leary about being stuck with local money. And I will definitely travel with toilet paper! A tour guide sounds like a good investment. Now to get this on the planning board!

Great article! I am planning to visit Egypt soon, so your tips are more than welcome..

The toilet paper info is super important! I learned to keep a travel pack in my purse when I travel just in case

These are some pretty important things to know – especially #3! I’ve been to India many times (my father’s from India) and it’s exactly the same at sites of interest too – it’s actually a real pity because over time, it just conditioned me to be super unfriendly and ‘angry-looking’ all the time so I don’t get approached – even though, in truth, I really do enjoy people-watching and immersing myself in the daily bustle!

LOL! dying about the toilet paper tip – as a missionary kid growing up in the Caribbean in the 1990s we discovered that there was often no TP available there either. Funny to see that it happens in Egypt and other countries as well. Great tips!

Wow! I want to go to Egypt even more after reading your post. I was one of those people who was scared of traveling to Egypt alone, but I keep seeing solo female travelers like yourself raving about how safe and beautiful it (at least the places one would want to visit as a tourist

Amazing work! I am planning a trip to Egypt shortly, so any advice would be greatly appreciated.

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I’m Maggie, a 30-something politico from Washington, DC, who always has one foot off the ground, looking for adventure. I work full-time in the Swamp, but use travel as a way to stay sane! Read on for my crazy stories from the road, and tips to help you in your own travels! Learn more about me

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8 tips I wish I knew before traveling solo to Egypt

Egypt is a magical place that attracts travelers from all over the globe. Most tourists go there to see the pyramids in Giza, but you'd be remiss if you didn't branch out beyond Cairo's famous sites.

Traveling throughout Egypt can be a bit tricky. Fortunately, with a bit of research and careful planning, you can minimize the likelihood of encountering any unexpected surprises during your visit.

Here are some tips to keep in mind before you visit based on my solo travels around Egypt.

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Know what to expect when it comes to money

Overall, Egypt is an affordable destination, with most meals costing less than $5. However, be wary of scams and being overcharged. If you plan to shop, which you should at Khan el-Khalili in Cairo, be prepared to haggle. Never pay the first price offered by a local vendor, and use your bargaining skills to get whatever you're purchasing for a little bit cheaper.

Also be sure to pack cash. Although this is standard advice for just about everywhere, it's especially crucial in Egypt, as you'll be expected to leave a hefty tip in Egyptian pounds (the country's currency) for every service you partake in and receive.

Dress appropriately

While you may be tempted to whip out your short shorts due to the scalding heat, Egypt is not the place to do so, as it's a conservative country. Wear clothes that go at least past your knees, do not show any cleavage and make sure to cover your shoulders, especially at holy sites. Female tourists are not expected to wear a hijab, though they can choose to do so out of respect. It is recommended for women to wear baggy clothes.

Bring a light jacket if your visit is during winter. Despite popular belief, Egypt does indeed get chilly. Wear comfortable walking shoes, and don't repeat my mistake of wearing cute sandals while temple hopping in Luxor. Some tombs are underground with a steep slope downward, so good footwear is essential.

Related: The potential is there: A review of EgyptAir's business class on the 787-9 from Cairo to New York

Take advantage of student discounts

Most of Egypt's archaeological sites like the pyramids, temples and more charge an entry fee. These fees can add up over time, especially if you're trying to see several throughout your trip, as you should. I visited Egypt when I was a law student, and my guide in Luxor informed me there is a student discount. However, some sites wouldn't accept my New York City student ID card.

To avoid a U.S. state ID not being accepted, you can look into getting an international student ID card (or an ISIC), which will likely be accepted at all sites in Egypt. The only caveat is you have to be younger than 26 to qualify for the Egyptian student discount.

Sample the country's food and beverages

Sampling local cuisine is always a big treat when traveling. In Egypt, the delicious fare is seemingly endless. You'll find a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes in the country, including falafel and fül, a stew of cooked fava beans made with olive oil, parsley, cumin and garlic that's typically eaten for breakfast. You should also try koshari, Egypt's national dish. It's a wonderfully tasty concoction of pasta, rice, chickpeas, lentils and fried onions served in a spicy tomato sauce.

Tap water is not recommended for drinking here, so opt for a bottled beverage to wash down your meal. Despite being a predominantly Muslim nation where many locals abstain from drinking alcohol, Egypt produces its own wine and beer, so you'll have a few alcoholic options to choose from. If you want to indulge after a long day of sightseeing, most hotels serve alcohol or you can order it online through the popular Egyptian site Cheers. Know, though, that being intoxicated in public is a big no-no.

Come prepared with layers

There's a common misconception that Egypt is extremely hot year-round. While the country undoubtedly gets hot much of the year, it does indeed have a cooler season from December to late March, so bring a light jacket if you're planning a winter visit.

Know, too, that Egypt is a large country, so the weather may vary depending on where you are in the country.

Hire a guide

Egypt is an attractive tourist destination thanks to its rich history, which can be traced back to some of the earliest signs of communication. Self-research is always an option, but if you want to make the most of your Egypt experience, consider hiring a guide to explain the many sites you'll see to you. It can be overwhelming to view pyramids, hieroglyphics, mummies and more on your own. A certified Egyptologist will ensure you know what you're looking at and can deepen your connection to the country's history.

Additionally, a local guide who speaks the language can help you navigate unwanted attention, especially for women traveling on their own. Catcalling is unfortunately common in Egypt, but touring with a guide might eliminate some of the harassment experienced. If you're a woman traveling alone and you're uncomfortable hiring a male guide, don't fret: I was pleasantly surprised to find many female guides available for hire when I visited.

Related: Egypt opens 4,600-year-old 'Bent' Pyramid to the public

Plan your itinerary and in-country transportation ahead of time

There's more to Egypt than just Cairo. In fact, many travelers only spend a day or two in Cairo to see the pyramids before venturing out to other destinations. There are several ways to travel throughout the country, but you'll need to narrow down where you'd like to go before deciding how you'll get there.

Luxor, like Cairo, is an obvious choice for most since it offers some of the best and most popular sites in the country. If you're into scuba diving or snorkeling, any of the towns along the Red Sea should be on your radar. The most popular spots for water activities are Sharm el-Sheikh, Hurghada and Dahab. And if you're feeling adventurous, head east toward the Libyan border to discover the magical Siwa Oasis, where you can float in one of the area's famous salt pools.

Other popular destinations in Egypt include Abu Simbel, Aswan and Alexandria.

Once you narrow down where you'd like to go, you'll then have to decide how you'll get there. Traveling throughout Egypt via EgyptAir is incredibly easy, as there are flights connecting throughout most major cities at affordable rates. An overnight sleeper train is another popular way to travel due to its relatively low cost, or you can get a unique perspective of the country by enjoying a relaxing Nile River cruise .

Renting a car is an option, too. However, it's not recommended due to heavy traffic, lack of speed limit enforcement and the presence of police checkpoints throughout the country. Should you need to get around in a car, consider hailing a taxi or ordering an Uber.

Use the right photography tools and equipment

Getting photos with no one else in them can be a challenge due to the large volume of visitors that flock to the main tourist sites, so you may want to work on your photoshop skills. Most sites are grandiose in size, so a wide-angle lens will serve you well.

Remember that drones are prohibited. If you attempt to bring one to the airport, it will be confiscated.

Bottom line

Egypt is a thrill.

While you may want to brush up on your Arabic — it's the national language there — and check to see if you need any vaccinations (like one for yellow fever, which is required if you're not traveling directly to Egypt from the U.S.), these preparations are more than worth the effort to visit this culturally and historically rich destination.

As long as you practice general safety precautions, you should be all set to have the time of your life.

Egypt Travel Tips: Ultimate Guide to Visiting Egypt

Egypt is a land of dreams for travelers looking for a bustling destination with a vibrant culture. For Europeans, Egypt has been a popular spot (among Turkey and Tunisia) to go for a resort getaway with occasional day trips to Luxor and Cairo.

Growing up, I remember seeing many chartered flights to Sharm El Sheik and Hurghada, and everyone and their mother had been to Egypt. It’s no surprise that Egypt has been the first place I traveled to solo after my high school graduation back in 2007, at the age of eighteen.

However, Egypt for Americans has never been a ‘hot spot’, but after my second independent trip to Egypt, I can say that it surely should be! Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Egypt and the most useful Egypt travel tips .

Ultimate Guide to Visiting Egypt

Safety in Egypt

First things first: is Egypt safe? Absolutely! When I visited Egypt back in 2008 safety wasn’t the biggest concern. Unfortunately, nowadays most of the Middle East is currently in political or social unrest, but we often forget to see the difference between Egypt and the rest of the Middle East.

Sure, there are some regions which are not safe, but there are also regions where are perfectly fine. Just like in any other country and city. That said, everywhere in Egypt I was told that the only rules for tourists in Egypt are to “enjoy and feel like at home”.

As you may know by now, Egypt is NOT on the travel alert or travel warning list for the U.S Department of State .

Tourist attractions are largely safe and not under any threat. Egyptians are one of the most welcoming people I’ve ever encountered on my travels ( among Iranians !) and they love tourists. Not once I feel in any danger anywhere in the country, people constantly had my back when I looked lost or unsure

I was very saddened to read a lot of other blog posts saying that everyone in Egypt wants your money, as it’s absolutely not my experience. I met locals trying to help me on numerous occasions, asking me if I’m all right, and feeding me good food. Everyone was nothing but nice to me.

Read more on my experience of traveling to Egypt solo .

When to Go to Egypt?

Don’t make my mistake during my first visit by going to Egipt in the summer. In summer, temperatures can get up to 45 degrees Celsius in dusty, so Luxor and Aswan are unbearable.

Remember that nights can be freezing so bring a sweater and a pair of warm socks. Trust me, you can thank me later.

The best time to go to Egypt is surely between October and April. The tourist high season is considered from December to February, so if you come slightly out of season you will also enjoy cheaper hotel prices and fewer crowds. Also, make sure to avoid traveling during Ramadan.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel to Egypt?

Not much. Egypt is comparatively cheap if you’re coming from a developed nation. For a bed in a dorm, you’ll usually pay about $4, guesthouse would be about $12 per night and a higher standard shouldn’t be more than $150. If you’re backpacking you could get by for $30 a day without any issues.

The most expensive thing I paid for in Egypt was my hot-air balloon flight ($50).

Always carry a lot of coins and small bills. You will have to “tip” many times a day, for all kinds of reasons. While you don’t HAVE TO do this, it’s customary to for instance give some coins to a bathroom lady who hands you a few sheets of toilet paper. 

I was completely fine with tipping here and there, especially after visiting some of the poorest neighborhoods of Cairo and Luxor.

Food in Egypt

I enjoyed the food in Egypt very much. I ate anything from basic kebabs to local vegetables and rice, through the most traditional dish – Koshary. It’s a mix of rice, macaroni, and lentils topped with tomato-vinegar sauce and fried onions.

If you’re staying in local hostels or hotels be prepared that you’ll be served a LOT of food. Quite often for breakfast, I was receiving a few bread rolls, 8 balls of falafel, hummus, omelet, hard boiled eggs, french fried, yogurt and a fresh smoothie. It was impossible to eat it all!

How to Get Around Egypt

Domestic flights in Egypt as affordable and great. You’d be looking at two airlines: EgyptAir and NileAir (I can only personally vouch for EgyptAir and they’re great). For a flight from Cairo to Luxor or Aswan, you’ll pay about $50-80 one way and the flight takes about an hour.

If you’re on a strict backpacking budget, you might want to look into Go Bus . Their buses are very comfy, cheap and easy to book on the website or app on your phone.

Sleeper trains are another popular way of traveling, but since my flight to Luxor cost me the same as the sleeping train would have, the choice was obvious.

Boat (Nile Cruise)

There is a cruise on the Nile that starts in all of the touristic cities, and most tourists decide to do it. Many travelers think the Nile Cruise is the only way to get to some places, which isn’t true as the same places can be reached by car or bus.

Keep in mind that it’s not going to be a very local experience hanging out at the pool and eating touristy food on the boat. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with that but it might not be everyone’s cup of tea. I opted for a cheaper version staying in local guesthouses.

Uber & Taxis

In Cairo, you can take Uber anywhere and it’s extremely cheap. For instance, an average taxi trip from Cairo Airport to downtown Cairo should not cost more than 50-60 LE, whilst a journey from Cairo Airport to the Pyramids go for 100-110 LE.

Extra Egypt Travel Tips:

• Traffic jams and driving in Egypt, particularly in Cairo, can be quite intimidating. But don’t be afraid to cross the street.
• Egypt gets extremely hot, particularly during the summer, so stay hydrated. If you want to save on bottled water get a LifeStraw Water Bottle  . You can fill it anywhere even with water from a puddle!
• Always haggle a bit and never say yes to anything without discussing the price first.
• Bring your own toilet paper. The toilets here have a built-in bidet spray nozzle.

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Jean Brandl

Thursday 12th of May 2022

I stumbled upon your posts about Morocco and Egypt (going to both in June) and they are great. Your posts are encouraging and very helpful. Plus you seem really positive and modest.

Emily Rivera

Monday 8th of February 2021

Hey, I just have a few questions. My friend and I are planning to go to Egypt next year and we were wondering how you toured. - Were you touring privately or with a group? I’m just curious and interested on how you go about touring a country like Egypt. - How far do you have to plan in advance? My guess would be months but I’m not sure That’s all, thank you :)

Anna Karsten

Tuesday 9th of February 2021

I was on my own. Just used drivers when needed :) I never plan any travels months in advance, but Egypt is also super easy to arrange things. In fact, you can arrange everything (minus hotels) upon arrival without any issues.

Wednesday 10th of June 2020

Hey Anna, thanks for the monetary information. It'll help me prepare my itinerary well in advance along with the budget which is indeed the toughest part while planning a vacation. You've given some very vital information on taxis, airfares, transportation and places to stay. Keep building more stuff like these, your blog is very resourceful.

shamsa lalani

Monday 17th of February 2020

Hi We are planning 7 days trip to Egypt in the next two weeks. Want to know what is the best option to cover Aswan and Luxor - through three day Nile river cruise or by staying a night in Luxor and travel to Aswan through train and spend a night there. We will go with the tour agency so they have both the options

Wednesday 26th of February 2020

You can easily stay in Luxor overnight not on a boat - there are so many nice hotels. Nile cruises will be significantly more expensive than regular hotels. Both options seem fine, but you a cruise to Aswan will be more relaxing than going overland. Greeting from Cairo, as I'm actually in Egypt again :-)

Friday 24th of January 2020

Thank you Anna for sharing your great adventures. Your tips and experiences are so helpful. We will be going to Egypt in April and would love to know where you booked the private cars/guides? We've searched a few options online and would prefer to follow the route your took.

Take care and thank you again.

In Cairo I just moved around with Uber. In Luxor I rented a driver who took me to various spots of the West Bank. His name was Ahmed and he gave me his number: 01001202609. For the balloon tour I just booked one through my hotel, they sell them everywhere so don't worry - you can just get one upon arrival.

Top tips for female travellers visiting Egypt

Mar 7, 2019 • 6 min read

Woman in temple looking at hieroglyphics. Edfu temple.

After a few years in the tourism doldrums, Egypt is back on travel wishlists. The pyramids, the River Nile, Luxor’s glut of tombs and temples, and the Red Sea’s world-class diving are all major reasons to start planning your itinerary now, but some female travellers may be hesitant to start packing their bags straight away.

It’s fair to say that Egypt has a bad reputation with some travellers. Women thinking about a first-time trip to Egypt are often regaled by at least one acquaintance who’s previously travelled there with tales involving lecherous men. This reputation annoys many women who have happily travelled around the country, solo or with others, for years, but even they acknowledge that some of it is deserved.

Egypt may not be the easiest place to travel as a woman, but overall, the good far outweighs the bad. Aside from its wealth of ancient ruins, historic monuments, vast desert and coral reefs, one of the main joys of an Egypt trip are the people themselves. Egyptians are some of the most hospitable and garrulous people in the world. Although catcalling is rife, for every time a young man yells at you in the street, there will be an invitation to sit down and have lunch with a shopkeeper or a temple site-guardian who dishes out tea and jokes with you. Some of the best times to be had in Egypt are these random interactions, and female travellers would do well to not shut themselves off from chatting to Egyptian men for fear of being harassed. Go prepared, but bring an open mind.

Will I be harassed in Egypt?

Unfortunately, the short answer is yes. Harassment drops off a cliff for women rocking grey hair, but women are very likely to run into some sexual and verbal harassment. Blue-eyed travellers, black travellers and travellers with curvier body-shapes seem to attract more. Most harassment tends to come from groups of young men loitering on street corners shouting obscenities as you walk past. This is wearying, though not usually particularly threatening. Verbal harassment notches up the creepy-index when it involves men trailing you down the street. Physical harassment is more likely to occur in crowded, ‘trapped-in’ situations such as public transport.

As for that other hassling that Egypt is famous for – the souvenir-tat vendors, boat and camel touts hustling for business – take comfort in the fact that they’re equal opportunity hasslers: they’ll happily harass both male and female tourists until you crack and buy that toy pyramid and gold glitter snow globe.

How to deal with harassment

The best way to deal with 99% of verbal harassment is to ignore it. Most street harassment isn’t going to escalate, and if you responded to every incident by confronting the assailant, you’d end up exhausted. If the harasser is persistent, a useful phrase is ‘ ayb aleik ’ (shame on you), which, if shouted, can stop some cat-callers in their tracks. If you do lose your cool, it’s important to realise that everybody reaches breaking point at some stage: be kind to yourself. Nobody has saintly levels of patience.

Because the vast majority of Egyptians working in hospitality are male, many of your day-to-day interactions as a short-trip visitor will be with men, but one tourism career path that's popular with Egyptian women is tour guiding. If you’re looking for a site guide and feeling like you need a break from all the testosterone, look for female guides on guide-booking websites or specifically request a female guide with a local tour company. In Cairo , if you’re a bit of a foodie, consider supporting the women behind Bellies Enroute  who run food tours in the downtown area.

To tour or not to tour

Because of Egypt’s reputation, many women opt for the safety-in-numbers approach and book a group tour. If you’re short on time anyway and only want to see the highlights, tours can be great, but by their very nature tours are restrictive. Not only will you be giving up the freedom to explore, but group-think also leads to less interaction with locals (yes, even with the small-group operators who tout local experiences as their catchphrase), so those preconceived ideas you had about travelling in Egypt are unlikely to be smashed.

Place to avoid … and not to avoid

After dark, when the heat fizzles out, cities such as Cairo and Luxor buzz with families strolling the streets until late. Many solo female travellers find this an unexpected pleasure of their Egypt trip.

The vast amount of Egypt’s budget hotels are fine for solo women. Some dodgier hotels do remain, so trust your instincts. If your weird-vibe radar screams at you, find another place. There are absolutely no traveller-points awarded in staying somewhere you don’t feel comfortable.

Getting around Egypt as a female traveller

Some younger female travellers are huge flag-wavers for using Uber and Careem (the Middle Eastern version of the ride-hailing service) over standard taxis, though many experienced women travellers in Egypt don’t think there’s any difference in safety. Whatever taxi form you use though, sit in the back seat. With public transport, the Cairo metro has women-only carriages, which, as an added bonus, are always less crowded. On all other public transport, try to sit next to a woman. The sardine-squashed microbuses that run routes within towns can be prime harassment territory with little you can do about stray hands. Avoid rush hour if possible.

European-style bars and restaurants serving alcohol are fine for solo women to drink in. Egypt’s baladi (local) bars are best avoided if you’re by yourself. These spit-and-sawdust drinking dens are often frequented by a clientele who are there to get drunk, not just have a few beers. The typical drunken-male-at-bar hassle that can happen anywhere in the world is amplified here because women are a rare sight in these establishments. Staff will nearly always keep a protective eye on you, but your presence causes them undue stress as they attempt to stop inebriated patrons from staggering over to your table. If you want to check out these bars (and they can be great fun), go as part of a mixed group. Also note that there's rarely a toilet for women. If this is the case, head to the toilet in pairs rather than alone.

What to wear

Dressing modestly doesn’t necessarily lessen harassment (Egyptian women suffer just as much), but it helps hugely in other interactions. Egyptian culture (both Muslim and Coptic Christian) is conservative, and many locals wouldn’t dare strike up a conversation with a woman wearing skimpy clothing. If you want to experience the often hilarious, warm natural friendliness of Egyptians, dress respectfully by  covering knees, cleavage and upper arms. If you want to visit a mosque, cover down to ankles and wrists and have a headscarf on hand to wrap over your head. Save the singlets and shorts for when you’re on the beach.

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Moving to Egypt Transformed My Travel Wardrobe — Here Are 13 Comfy Essentials I Now Swear by, From $26

From white linen pants to breezy maxi dresses, these are the versatile clothes I wear on repeat in Cairo.

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Travel + Leisure / Daisy Rodriguez

I recently moved to Cairo, Egypt’s capital and a desert city that experiences a range of temperatures in a single day. I learned quickly that I’d need looks that would keep me cool in the sun yet warm on chilly nights and be modest enough to fit right in. So I added a few key items to my travel wardrobe, from white linen pants to apparel with built-in UPF sun protection to a light denim jacket I can layer on top at night.   

If you’re packing for your own Egypt trip, maybe you can benefit from a few key things I’ve learned along the way. First, classic, elegant silhouettes on the more modest side go far; generally speaking, covering from your shoulders to your knees is acceptable here. You don’t want to attract unwanted attention when you’re sightseeing. And second, whether you’re headed to the pyramids, climbing Mount Sinai, or taking the metro to avoid Cairo traffic, comfortable, close-toed shoes are also essential.

Since it’s the desert, sand and dust are all around, but you shouldn’t let this stop you from wearing white. Just keep a reliable stain remover in your suitcase. Depending on your style, you can stick to bold prints or minimalist neutrals that hide anything that gets on your outfit. All in all, you can’t go wrong with stylish and functional staples, so scroll on for my ultimate guide to what to wear to Egypt .

Quince White Linen Pants

It’s no secret that linen is the way to go in any warm weather climate, but sometimes the fabric can get quite expensive. I’ve turned to Quince’s deals and sales for my linen sets complete with pants, a matching tank , and a short or long-sleeve shirt . I recommend buying all the various lengths because I tend to switch between the three of them throughout the day. 

Plus, a coordinated look is an excellent hack to looking put together in a flash. Given the packed itinerary you’ll likely have in Egypt, nothing beats a quick and simple ensemble. Quince has linen in all kinds of colors and pinstripe, too, so do yourself a favor and stock up.

Rothy’s The Casual Clog

Rothy's

Clogs are my go-to in Cairo as the open back keeps my feet cool while a closed toe keeps them from getting dusty. And these Rothy’s in particular are a winning travel shoe because you never have to worry about getting them dirty — they’re machine washable . Any time I get a stain on them, I simply pop the shoes into the washing machine. 

It’s a low-maintenance setup, and the plush footbed with arch support makes them a joy to walk around in. The only thing to remember is that Rothy’s can’t take excessive heat from a dryer, so you always have to let them air dry. Looking for this style for less? This similar Amazon pair is only $39 (though not as conveniently machine washable).

Nordstrom Long Sleeve Shirt Dress

Similar to my linen sets, I have a rack of maxi shirt dresses ready to go for any occasion. They’re stylish yet conservative enough, appropriate for being out about about, and will keep you cool. 

As someone who’s petite, I opt for vertical stripes to flatter and elongate my figure, and I find the pattern a fun way to show off my style personality. Did I mention this style has pockets? I may not put valuables in them to deter pickpockets, but it’s great for having items like lip gloss with SPF handy. 

Khaki Baseball Cap

Even with slightly cooler temperatures during the earlier months of the year, the sun is still strong in the desert. In addition to a pair of sunglasses , I rock a baseball cap anywhere I go. 

It’s a practical accessory that will protect you from the sun, and it makes a subtle style statement. I keep it right by the door, so I can finish any outfit with it on my way out, especially when I want to cover up a bad hair day. Again, to match the desert, I have a khaki color that pairs well with anything. 

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

A small, on-the-go bag that can fit your hotel key, credit cards, cash, and phone is a must-have. Lululemon’s belt bag is an affordable solution that has gotten me through many days and nights out in Cairo along with other trips beyond the city. 

I prefer to clip it over my chest for a more fashion-forward style and the bonus of easier access to my essentials. And unlike most fanny packs, there’s a separate interior pocket that will help keep all your stuff organized. 

Madewell The Jean Jacket

Like New York, Cairo is another city that never sleeps, so you’ll need some form of outerwear for the colder nights in the desert. You’ll find the streets filled with people at all hours of the night. 

Whether I’m going to a late dinner or a nightcap at a coffee shop, my denim jacket always comes with me. Not only does it keep me cozy, but I can also wear it with everything from a dressier slip dress to denim jeans or long skirts in similar washes. 

Hill House Home The Ellie Nap Dress

Hill House Home

If you ask me, Hill House’s popular Nap Dress isn’t for snoozing. In fact, it’s what I like to wear on activity, photo-filled days. Similar to my cropped pants, it looks good on anyone and the site offers a range of colors, prints, and sizes. 

It’s casual enough that it works for a laid-back lunch or food tour. Then again, I’ve thrown it on with heels before for a fancy night out. I can’t stress enough how crucial it is to have versatile pieces when traveling, and this one fits the bill as it covers the knees and shoulders. 

Everlane The Day Mary Jane

I’m a fan of athleisure, but I don’t like my closet to be lined with sneakers or uncomfortable sandals. I chose these durable Mary Janes from Everlane made out of soft leather in the Blush Tan because they fit perfectly and match the sand on the roads so I don’t have to worry about cleaning them. 

What makes them even better for travel? The shoes can be effortlessly dressed up or down. I’ve worn them to an elegant Iftar meal at the historic Qubba Palace or on a stroll in Old Cairo’s pottery village where I buy affordable handmade goods and take classes. 

Lululemon Softstreme High-Rise Midi Skirt

An underrated, modest article of clothing is a midi skirt. Lululemon has a quality, super soft option that’s attainable quiet luxury at its finest. I like to pair it with a relaxed tee to balance out the skirt’s structure. Recently, I dressed up a midi with a tank and a blazer (so that it wasn’t too revealing) for a Suhoor — the second pre-fasting meal during Ramadan — at the Abdeen Palace. 

Akk Memory Foam Lightweight Tennis Shoes

Comfy, tan sneakers were a priority on my Egypt packing list. I got a couple of inexpensive pairs at Amazon because I wanted to be able to get rid of them if they got too worn down. I’ve been here since February and my initial pair is still going strong. 

Of course, beige was the clear color of choice and I often wear them with matching socks to combat the dusty terrain. I also love that they’re lightweight and a breeze to walk in.  

Viodia Women's UPF 50+ Golf Shirt

There’s so much to do in Cairo, and I’ve been picking up tons of new hobbies, including golf. This is because many of the luxury hotels and resorts have golf courses . 

I have a drawer full of polo shirts with both long and short sleeves that I wear with longer-length matching golf skorts . To mix things up, I also have a few golf dresses . (At the courses and resorts, in general, I’ve found that it’s more acceptable to wear shorter bottoms.) This shirt is great whether on the course or not as it has UPF 50+ sun protection built in, a necessity in these parts.

Banana Republic Ultra High-Rise Wide-Leg Crop Jean

Banana Republic

Wide-legged crops or culottes are my preferred pants. They’re flattering, breathable, and add shape to any look. If you’re coming to the desert, I say leave your skinnies at home. 

I take things to another level with ultra-high rises. This silhouette, courtesy of Banana Republic, has a relaxed fit that complements any figure. Thankfully, the brand has a petite section , so I didn’t have to worry about hemming or getting the jeans tailored. 

Blundstone High-Top Boots

Even though this is the desert, there are hiking trails in Cairo, and since the paths are filled with sand, you should wear high-top boots. I’ve been all about my pair of sturdy, shock-absorbing Blundstone boots.

Moreover, the boots look even better if they’re down making them ideal for walking around or strolling from one pyramid to another. It’s clear that when it comes to footwear, the less hassle, the better. They come in black and several shades of brown giving you plenty of options, too. 

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Planning to see the pyramids? 5 important tips to remember for your trip to Egypt

Save emergency contacts for swift responses

Use international debit/credit cards or forex card for easy payments, convert currency before your trip, apps to download for your norway trip, local guide apps:.

• Egypt Travel Guide: Offers travel guides, maps, and information on attractions, accommodations, and activities in Egypt.
• Cairo City Guide: Provides information on attractions, restaurants, and events in Cairo, the capital city.
• Luxor Travel Guide: Offers guides and information on attractions, accommodations, and activities in Luxor, a popular tourist destination.

Public Transport:

Language and communication:.

• Google Translate: Useful for translating text, speech, and images to and from Arabic, the primary language in Egypt.
• Arabic Language Learning: Helps you learn basic Arabic phrases and vocabulary for better communication.
• Weather Egypt: Provides accurate weather forecasts for locations across Egypt, including detailed information on temperature, precipitation, and wind.

Outdoor Activities:

• Egypt Adventure: Offers guides and information on outdoor activities, including hiking, diving, and desert safaris.
• Red Sea Diving: Provides information on diving spots, dive centres, and underwater activities in the Red Sea region.