Here are 15 helpful tips for visiting Egypt for the first time. Due to Egypt’s ancient history, beautiful beaches, incredible hospitality, and delicious food, no wonder over 13 million people visit a year. Egypt was the furthest I have traveled and one of my favorite vacations! Unfortunately, often portrayed by the media as an unsafe country, many are scared to visit Egypt. I never felt unsafe in Egypt; there is armed military at all tourist sights, and police are throughout major cities.
- Egypt is open for tourism! Tourists should register with the Egyptian Ministry Of Health online at least two days before arrival. You may register in person, but registering online will reduce your waiting time on arrival.
- US citizens must obtain a visa upon arrival or online in advance to enter Egypt. If planning to purchase the visa on arrival, make sure to have $25 in cash. Before heading to Egypt, make sure your US passport is valid for 6 months with at least one blank page.
- The best time to visit Egypt is between October and May when the weather is cooler but still warmly pleasant. If you visit between June and September, plan for early morning tours, afternoons by the pool, and exploring after sunset to avoid the heat.
- Arabic is the primary language of Egypt. But most people working in tourism will speak English. I highly suggest learning “thank you” in Arabic, “shukran.” Also, if you can learn to say “As-Salaam-Alaikum,” a traditional greeting meaning “peace upon you,” your effort will welcomed with compliments from the locals. They will even teach you other simple Arabic sayings if you are interested.
- The currency is Egyptian pounds. I recommend carrying some cash but make sure you have small bills. Vendors and merchants do not always have change. Credit cards are accepted in some shops and restaurants, but an internet connection can be unreliable.
- Islam is the primary religion in Egypt. Therefore, women should dress modestly to reduce the amount of attention. I highly recommend wearing knee- maxi length dresses or skirts, pants, and a shirt that covers your shoulders. Women only need to cover their hair when entering mosques.
- Egypt is a tipping-based country, and you will be expected to tip for everything. For example, depending on the area and location, you may be expected to tip the attendant in public restrooms. Individuals working at tourist sites will offer to take your picture for “free,” but before handing your phone or camera back will request money. For photos, I typically tipped 20 Egyptian pounds (USD 1.25.) In restaurants, it’s recommended that you tip 10%, but if you receive excellent service, tip more as the exchange rate is so high.
- Never take the first price quoted when shopping! If you have a tour guide, they will help you get a fair price. The rule of thumb is to agree to pay 50% of the original quoted price, so barter, pretend to walk away, and I guarantee the price will come down. But if you are approached and don’t want to purchase, say no firmly and keep walking. Don’t engage, as that will only make vendors push more.
- Uber is accessible in larger cities. Use Uber to avoid being overcharged by a taxi. If you take a taxi, agree on a price before you get into the vehicle, again, barter. For example, on my last day in Hurghada, on my way to the airport, my Uber app would not work, so I had to use a taxi. Before the driver and I could agree on a price, the hotel staff had put my belongings in the trunk. The driver was trying to charge me twice what the Uber app quoted me. I had to call an Egyptian friend who spoke to the driver in Arabic to agree on a fair price as he would not budge on the price with me.
- To transfer between major cities like Cairo, Luxor, and Hurghada, you can catch one-hour flights through Egypt Air for approximately $50. Buses are available but can eat up your time, and you only save a little money.
- Catcalling is AWFUL in Egypt. I expected it as I experienced it in Morocco, but it’s exhausting no matter how used to it you are. Having a tour guide will reduce the amount of catcalling, but it will still happen. Don’t engage-continue to look forward and keep walking. Men will shout at you and even offer you marriage proposals. I never felt unsafe in tourist attractions due to the heavy police/ military presence.
- Hire a credible tour guide! Egyptologists have gone through extensive education of Egypt’s history and are eager to share their knowledge. Hiring a tour guide is not only a great way to support the locals but will also help with language barriers and transportation.
- Food poisoning is common in Egypt. Avoid tap water and ice unless in a hotel or restaurant with an adequate water purification system. I even used bottled water to brush my teeth. Bottled water is super cheap in Egypt, at approximately $0.50. Unless I was eating in a restaurant in my 4-5 star hotels, I avoided uncooked veggies/fruits that aren’t peeled and avoided meat from street vendors. I recommend packing Pepto Bismol, Imodium, and probiotics (take daily.) *side note I recommend packing Tylenol and allergy medication, the dust is unreal.
14. Pack a portable charger power bank! Days are busy and long in Egypt. Whether you are waking up before sunset for a hot air balloon ride over the temples in Luxor or visiting numerous temples, expect your phone battery to die. Also, pack a travel power plug adapter with a type C or F socket.
15. Since coming back from Egypt, I’ve spoken with others planning trips to Egypt with Cairo as their sole destination. Many people only think of the pyramids and the Sphinx when planning trips to Egypt. Get out of Cairo, check out the Luxor temples and spend a few days relaxing at the Red Sea in Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh. Before going to Egypt, I never knew snorkeling or diving were possible in Egypt. I loved Hurghada, and it reminded me of Miami, FL, minus the craziness. I wish I had more time, but if you can fit in, head south to check out Abu Simbel and the Nubian Village in Aswan. I plan to head south next time in Egypt!
Have you been to Egypt? Was there something you wish you had known? Any questions about something I didn’t share?
Darci says
So informative! Can you say more in another post about what foods are must try in Egypt?
Meka says
I haven’t had Egypt in my to go list, not sure why. I can say it is now. You are a great tour guide and storyteller. Thanks for sharing with so much detail.
Michaela says
Love this post! Very important things to know. I loved my time in Egypt and was surprised that almost everywhere requires you to have a photography pass to take pics! That’s one of my suggestions for people to know going into the trip too.
Venaugh says
So informative! This is such a great post before going on a trip to Egypt. Definitely helps to prepare and make sure you dont accidentally offend anyone on your trip.