Best Travel Tips for Egypt from a frequent visitor
Looking for the best Travel Tips for Egypt to help you plan your next bucket list adventure?
Whether you are all set to see the land of pharaohs, or still contemplating a trip, this comprehensive guide to the best Egypt travel tips will help you get more acquainted on what to expect.
My own personal love of Egypt has drawn me back many times. I have spent extended time in Cairo, as well as touring throughout the country and always get asked so many questions about Egypt travel. This amazing destination might feel overwhelming at first glance, but trust me, there is so much to fall in love with.
This Best Egypt Travel Tips Guide also includes my bonus “Pro Tips” so you get the absolute most out of each tip.
Best Travel Tips for Egypt - things to know before you go!
For first time visitors, these Egypt travel tips are designed to help you plan and prepare. From what to organise before you’ve even left home soil, to what to consider while exploring Egypt. Plus everything from cultural considerations to attraction expectations, it’s all here.
These Egypt tips will help you understand what to expect, bringing you less surprises and unwanted problems. So let’s get started.
Should I do an Egypt tour or travel independently?
Kom Ombo Temple Tour
Egypt is a complicated country when it comes to getting around on an independent level. From language and cultural barriers, to tipping and public transport, it’s not always an easy feat. Especially when you just want to have the time of your life, without the hassles.
For this reason, all our Small Group Tours at Absolute Egypt include an Australian Tour Leader to help navigate these barriers.
When you do an Egypt tour, all the hard work is all done for you. From airport transfers, to suitable accommodation, transport, entrance fees and of course the most important thing, a certified Tour Guide to showcase the incredible history.
Generally, you can do 2 types of tours to Egypt.
Group Tours: sharing the experience with others passionate about Egypt.
Private Tours: for those who want to see and do everything on a more independent level
Pro tip: Overwhelm is expected for first time visitors, and there is just no easing into it. The moment you land at the airport, people are in you face offering their taxi services. Make sure you have an airport transfer included as part of your tour so you can make a quick getaway to your hotel, and rest up for the remainder of the day.
Should I stay in downtown Cairo or near the Pyramids?
Downtown Cairo
Personally, I do prefer staying in downtown Cairo rather than out near the Pyramids. But I think it’s dependent on your overall itinerary.
If you are only in Cairo to see the Great Pyramids of Giza, then it would make sense to stay in Giza. Also, when the Grand Egyptian Museum finally opens, you will also be within easy access to visiting this world class museum. The downside is the initial area around these iconic landmarks is much grittier and I find you tend to get harassed a lot more when out on the streets.
For those who stay in the downtown area of Cairo, having the River Nile at your doorstep is a major plus. The newly formed Nile Promenade allows visitors and locals to walk great distances exploring restaurants and shops while taking in the views of the river and city. It is particularly gorgeous at night. Hotels such as Steigenberger El Tahrir, Ritz Carlton and Novotel are all in prime locations near the Egyptian Museum, El Tahrir Square and Qasr El Nil Bridge.
Cairo has an abundance of interesting attractions and tourist sites and it is well worth spending a few days here to really explore what the city has to offer. I would suggest a 4 day Cairo Tour if short on time. Places include Pyramids, Museum, plus Coptic Cairo for its historic significance, the Citadel for its architecture and panoramic views, and Khan El Khalili Market for endless shopping opportunities.
Pro Tip: if staying in downtown Cairo, be sure to head up to one of the city rooftop restaurants and bars for unparallel views of the city at night. These include Fairmont Nile City, Rooftop at Kempinski and Crimson Bar & Grill. If you are not into drinking alcohol, the Novotel Cairo El Borg offer breath taking views from its rooftop.
Is Egypt safe for tourists?
A night out in Cairo eating Koshari.
Contrary to what you might have read, Egypt is safe for travellers. In fact, I think you’d feel safer here than in some Western style countries.
Crimes against tourists are pretty low, with petty thieves and hagglers being the only real issues. But this is relatively standard in many other countries as well. Be aware, be vigilant and don’t offer your trust to just anyone. Even as a solo female traveller, I have never felt vulnerable or uneasy of my surrounds. Being level headed is key to getting around and making decisions on the go.
This is another reason as part of my travel tips for Egypt that I recommend doing a tour rather than worrying about things you are unsure of.
You will most likely notice a great deal of police presence too while in Egypt. The tourism police are everywhere guarding main tourist sites. You will have your bags scanned when entering attractions, buildings and even your hotel at times. This may include passing through a security screening as well.
Even on the roads you will notice military check points. But don’t worry, it’s not because Egypt is unsafe. It’s really because tourism is so important in Egypt as well as the many ancient attractions that need security.
Pro Tip: Don’t carry all your money around in one place. Separate it out and put it in different locations in case you accidently lose some. Also, never get in a taxi without negotiating the price first. Otherwise, you will most definitely be overcharged.
How long should you spend in Egypt?
The top of Mount Sinai, Egypt
Good question!
If you are here to get the absolute most out of this ancient wonderland, I highly recommend two weeks. This way you can see all the ancient sites including the Pyramids and Museum, visit the Upper Egypt cities of Aswan and Luxor, cruise the magnificent Nile River and have some time on the Red Sea to finish.
The 15 day Wonders of Egypt tour is the perfect comprehensive tour with Egyptologist Guide and Australian Tour Leader.
For those shorter on time, a 7 to 10 day Egypt tour would be just long enough to see all the big sites. Cairo, Aswan and Luxor are your main cities for seeing Pyramids, Temples and Tombs. A private tour would offer you more flexibility without having to wait for others as you go.
Recommended tours are:
7 Day Explore Egypt - includes Pyramids, Egyptian Museum, Khan El Khalili Market, 3 night Nile River Cruise (Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, Philae & Edfu Temples and Felucca Sailing)
10 Day Nile Splendor - includes above itinerary plus Alexandria City day tour, Abu Simbel, Sakkara Pyramids, Citadel and 4 night Nile Cruise.
10 day Nile Valley & Red Sea - includes Pyramids, Egyptian Museum, 3 night Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor and 3 nights on the famous Red Sea in Hurghada.
PRO TIP: If you like many other people have always dreamed of travelling to Egypt, don’t skimp on a watered down itinerary just to save time and money. This is an incredible experience you will never forget, so please do yourself a favour, and do it properly.
What are the must see Egypt attractions?
Getting those iconic shots of the Great Pyramids of Giza
The perfect Egypt itinerary would combine amazing attractions with epic experiences. From historic jaw dropping sites, a range of transport modes on land and water, and some down time to soak up the culture and atmosphere.
You might like to read my Egypt Main Tourist attractions for a more comprehensive guide to all the big hotspots.
My top 10 Egypt attractions are:
Egyptain Museum and/or Museum of Civilization
Alexandria City Tour - catacombs & Qaitbay Fortress on the Mediterranean Sea.
Abu Simbel Temple
Valley of the Kings
Siwa Oasis
My top 10 Egypt experiences include:
Shopping for unique items at the Khan El Khalili market
Feasting on traditional Egyptian food such as BBQ Quail, Kofta & Koshari
Taking a camel ride near the pyramids for those iconic shots
Sailing on a felucca - a traditional wooden boat along the Nile
Visiting a local Nubian Village in Aswan
Doing a snorkel trip on the Red Sea for world class coral reefs
Seeing Tutankhamun’s mask at the Egyptian Museum
Camping in the White Desert
PRO TIP: make sure you combine a mix of attractions and experiences to fully submerge yourself in all things Egyptian. This way you can not only tell your friends and family about the things you saw, but also the things you were able to do as well.
Should I do a cruise on the Nile River?
Another magnificent sunset while cruising the Nile River
A cruise on the magnificent Nile River is literally a dream come true. You can read my 10 best reasons for cruising the Nile River here.
Cruises from Aswan to Luxor take 3 nights and cruises from Luxor to Aswan are generally 4 nights. This is a great way to see the ancient attractions while cruising, and is definitely a highlight of any trip to Egypt.
There are hundreds of boats gently floating along the Nile, and include stops to famous sites such as Kom Ombo & Edfu Temple, Valley of the Kings and Luxor & Karnak Temple.
The banks of the river are green and lush, with rich farmland set against a magnificent backdrop of golden sand dunes. Come evening the sky turns a pinkish red hue, making for the most glorious sunsets. The sunrises are equally as beautiful.
For the perfect private Egypt tour taking in the Pyramids plus other ancient wonders and including a Nile Cruise, I recommend 7 day Best of Egypt (3 night Nile cruise) and 8 Day Classical Egypt (4 night Nile cruise).
Or for premium small group tours - 14 day Wonders of Egypt.
What is the weather like and best time to go to Egypt?
Enjoying the waters of Nabq Protected Bay
Did you know it only rains in Egypt on average 12 days in a year. So when it comes to avoiding the rain, you really don’t have anything to worry about.
This arid and dry country region enjoys sunshine all year round, but there are definitely some months much warmer than others.
Peak season is December to February (the winter months) when temperatures are mild and sunny. Prices are also at their highest as European visitors come to Egypt in their droves. You’ll find daytime temperatures reaching a comfortable 20C, and nightly temperatures dropping to as low at 10C. Personally, I find this time of year a little too cold for myself. Especailly as I don’t associate Egypt with having to wear so many layers to keep warm.
At the other end of the spectrum, July and August should be considered out of bounds unless you are there solely there to visit the beach side resorts. While Cairo can hit the high 30C’s, places such as Aswan and Luxor will easily top 40C + , making it especially uncomfortable for touring the temples. It is however the best time of year for avoiding the crowds, and I have a more than one occasion toured Egypt during these months. I literally had the place to myself compared to other months of the year, though it was extremely hot and sweaty.
For the best time to visit Egypt, I love the months of March to May, and September to November. These months are still quite warm, but relatively comforatable and out of peak season pricing. Also, as I always finish my trips on the Red Sea, these months are wonderfully perfect for swimming and sunbaking.
Additional reading: Egypt Summer or Winter - best time to visit Egypt
PRO TIP: Visiting in April, May, September, October and November are part of the shoulder months when crowds are lower but temperatures are not at their absolute highest.
What is the food like in Egypt?
Traditional Food Hawawshi - pita stuffed with minced meat and spices
The food is one of my favourites parts of visiting Egypt.
I find Egyptain cuisine is not that far from some of the foods and flavours I occasionally eat at home. In other words, you will find it very easy to get used to the food here. Some of my favourites include:
Egyptain BBQ (beef and chicken)
Stuffed Quail
Kafta (minced lamb with spices)
Hawawsgi (pita with minced meat and spices)
Koshari (vegetarian dish of pasta, rice, lentils topped with tomato sauce, chickpeas and fried onion)
Stuffed grape vine leaves (beef mince and rice)
flat bread freshly baked with assorted dips
On the sweeter side you must try Basbousa (semolina cake), Kunafa (sweet crunchy pastry) and the classic Baklava (sweet & nutty).
PRO TIP: Make sure you get out of the hotel restaurants and try some local cuisine. You also simply must try the fresh mango juice when in season. It is to die for.
What is the currency of choice in Egypt? Plus credit cards and ATMS.
Egyptian Currency
The local currency in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound or EGP. It comes in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200.
While some places back at home might be able to give you the local currency, most won’t. It is not highly sought after, and the value is too low. I find you’ll actually get a decent rate in country, even at the airport. When you arrive at Cairo International, you can purchase Egyptian Pounds before passing through passport control.
Some of the bigger hotels may also do currency exchange, but only if you have US Dollar, UK Pounds and Euros.
US Dollars are also widely accepted, and in some cases, this is the preferred currency. As the US dollar is so highly sought after, many want it. Be aware, if you pay with US dollars, you will most likely get local pounds back in change.
Credit cards are also widely accepted, but VISA and Mastercard are the most popular. AMEX is not widely used, so be ready for an alternative. Larger hotels, restaurants and department stores all accept credit cards. Some entrance fees to the big attractions are only accepting card payments now, but this is a relatively new rollout. It’s hard to know when you’ll need card and when you’ll need cash.
For smaller hotels, local restaurants, cafes, and bazaars, they will most likely only accept cash.
ATM’s are also widely available in the bigger cities such as Cairo, Alexandria and Luxor. But, I have to mention that even though there may be ATM’s all over the city, it takes time to get anywhere. So organize yourself or you’ll end up slowing yourself and your fellow travellers down.
PRO TIP: Entry fees for attractions such as the Pyramids only accept credit card these days, so carry a mixture of cash and card when in Egypt.
Can I buy a SIM Card in Egypt?
Mobile phone coverage is very good in Egypt. It’s when you head out to more remote locations that it may become an issue. If you are adamant on staying connected then be sure to purchase a SIM card at the airport on arrival. If for some reason you missed your chance, then you still can find official Mobile Phone stores in the city.
The three big mobile phone companies are Vodaphone, Orange and Etisalat.
If you really just want internet at the end of the day, many hotels and restaurants offer free internet to keep you connected. Using apps such as WhatsApp, Viber and even Facebook Messenger will help you make free calls to home.
Another alternative is seek out an E-Sim provider online so you can pre purchase your Sim before you arrive in Egypt.
PRO TIP: Be sure to check your phone is unlocked if purchasing an E SIM and work out your expected data usage for the most cost effective deals.
Do I need a visa for Egypt?
Getting a visa is easy on arrival at the airport for most nationalities
Yes, you’ll need a vias in Egypt.
For Australian passport holders, you can get your visa at the Cairo International airport (and other main airports). This is also available for US, UK, New Zealand, European Union and other nationalities. To check full requirements visit Egypt Visa requirements.
The cost at present is USD $25 and you will need to pay in cash. It is valid for a single entry up to 30 days.
When you arrive into Egypt, grab your visa from the bank kiosk at the airport and head for passport control. They’ll add it to our passport and stamp your entry. It’s that easy.
PRO TIP: have the correct amount when purchasing your visa.
Can I drink the water!
It is very important that you DO NOT drink the tap water. While there is actually nothing wrong with it, the bacteria it contains is different to your own, and will most likely cause all sorts of nasty holiday consequences.
This means avoiding fruits that cannot be peeled or raw vegetables, and asking for drinks with no ice. Some people may also need to brush their teeth with bottled water.
It really is hit and miss with people. On my last tour, most ate the fruits and fresh vegetables and had no issue. Also, many of the higher end hotels are using filtered water in their cooking which helps a lot.
PRO TIP: take anti diarrhea tablets just to be safe rather than sorry.
Do I have to barter for everything I buy?
Shopping at Khan El Khalili Market in Cairo requires bartering for the best prices
Bartering is a way of life in Egypt. For many though, it causes stress and tests your patience to the max, as you go back and forth trying to both agree to a price. It doesn’t help either when you have no idea what something is worth, making you feel vulnerable to being scammed. For this reason, when my tour group visits these markets, we are always there to help barter for them in order to get a fare price. I also find many love the new challenge and are happy to try themselves.
For the most part, you won’t have to barter. This is true at restaurants, hotels, attraction entrance fees and department store shopping.
For markets and bazaars such as Khan el-Khahili, you will have to barter unless you want to pay top dollar. I recommend trying not to get too flustered and remember, you may be arguing over less than a dollar.
Independent guides are also another time you’ll need to barter when you really want someone to tell you about the history of a location. Just be sure they are licensed and not some random dude there to take your money.
Taxis are another time you will have to pull out your bartering skills. As I mentioned in an earlier Egypt travel tip, work out the price before you get in the taxi. Not after you arrive at your destination.
PRO TIP: I usually recommend you start by halving the asking price from the seller, and then working towards a price you are happy with. If not, there is usually another seller with the same item. Also, while the old walk away trick works for some I find the Egyptian sellers don’t always chase you down so make sure you’re happy to let it go.
How much money will I need to take?
Let’s assume you are part of a tour group or at the least, have prepaid all your major on ground costs. This includes accommodation, transport such as internal flights and entrance fees.
For spending money it will come down to how much you plan to shop, whether you drink alcohol and what type of establishments you will eat at. Remember, most tours will have free breakfast and some additional meals.
This is a rough guide to help you work out what funds to take. But as a standard amount I recommend USD $30 to $50 per day per person for budget conscious and USD $50 to $100 for bigger spenders.
Meals: Mid to high end restaurants - 300 to 600 EGP / USD 10 to 20
Local Restaurants / cafes / street food - 50 to 200 EGP / USD $2 to $7
Alcohol High end establishments: local beer and wine 150 EGP / USD $3 - imported will be double the cost
Cocktails and spirits from 300+ EGP / USD $10 + (up to USD $20 for important spirits)
Water: 5 to 10 EGP for 1 litre at convenience stores. Expect to pay more in hotels and cruise boats.
PRO TIP: eat local food, buy duty free alcohol, and barter in order to save.
Is tipping expected in Egypt?
Our Egyptologist Guide Dalia receives a gift from the Aussie Tour Group
Tipping is customary in Egypt and easily adds up. In fact, you will be tipping in most instances.
Restaurants, taxis, airport reps, guides, drivers and in so many other instances, you will be asked to tip if you do not offer it first.
- here are some examples you may not be aware of:
Someone offers to take a photo for you at an attraction such as the Pyramids
using public toilets
someone offers you a small gift such as a bracelet
any type of kind service such as flagging a taxi for you
Tipping: USD $5 - $8 per person per day for a tour guide / USD $3 - $5 per person per day for a driver
Public toilets attendees: 10 EGP
Waiters 30+ EGP / USD $1+ (or 10% of cost)
Remember, tipping still comes down to service. So only tip what you think is appropriate, but also please don’t skim someone who deserves a decent tip for all their hard work just because it is not your custom.
PRO TIP: carry lots of small bills for additional tips
Is there UBER in Egypt?
There are an estimated 80,000 Uber drivers in Cairo
Yes, you will find UBER in Egypt.
Some things to know:
UBER is available in the cities of Cairo and Alexandria and Hurghada (and some smaller locations)
Airport pick up is available
there are over 80,000 UBER drivers in Cairo alone
there are varied car types depending on city location
payment is card and cash
PRO TIP: don’t let someone talk you into over paying a cost already set by UBER as sometimes this happens. Be prepared for cancellations from drivers not wanting to accept card payments.
What can I wear in Egypt?
Touring in Cairo - a mix of cover and comfortable clothing
I love this particular question because most times it is not at all what people think.
If you are under the impression that covering up is very much expected, you would be right but also wrong.
Egypt is quite a liberal country compared to its many neighbours and while you see a lot of traditional clothing, many locals also wear similar clothing to what us westerners wear at home. This is particularly common in the evenings, high end areas and beach side resorts. It is areas that are more traditional or remote that covering up and dressing conservatively becomes more expected.
I have travelled to Egypt on so many occasions and have seen a big shift in what people wear, simply because more upscale areas around the greater Cairo region are being established. With this comes a shift in the local dress code too. I see locals in these high end areas wearing shorter dresses and uncovered shoulders. It’s all about what area you are in.
I think you also need to consider what is respectful because sometimes I see other tourists and I’m gobsmacked by what they’re wearing.
I would pack a mixture of clothing, and focus on being conservative when it comes to showing cleavage and the upper thighs. This is so you don’t attract unwanted attention or disapproving stares. But also again, because its disrespectful.
knee length skirts and shorts are widely acceptable in the big cities and around tourist attractions
T-shirts are widely acceptable - not long sleeves
shoulders and legs should be covered in places of worship, remote areas and traditional areas
bathers including bikinis and beach clothing is fine at Red Sea Resorts
PRO TIP: best to dress in layers and light coloured clothing. Black is so hot against the scorching sun.
What should I carry with me out and about?
Exploring the streets of downtown Cairo
While you are out and about exploring the wonderful sites of Egypt, I suggest having the following things on hand.
Passport: I always think its best to have this on you rather than locked away in some hotel safe (easy to leave behind too). You never know when you’ll have to present it or show ID. Keep copies also in your baggage.
Water: The dry heat here is thirst quenching. Plus it’s so easy to become dehydrated so carry lots and lots of water.
Sunglasses: that desert oasis and blinding sun is certainly harsh under normal light. Don’t forget your sunnies.
Hat: Shielding the sun is a good idea
Toilet paper: that’s right. You might get caught out using a bathroom with no toilet paper. Best be prepared.
Sun screen: you’re in Egypt. Goes without saying.
Small Bills: for additional tips, you’ll want to pass on small bills - plus for using the public bathrooms
Wet wipes: these come in handy when you need to wash your hands and/or face or wipe surfaces. They just do so much.
Hotel details - so many people get lost and forget their hotel.
Silk scarf: a scarf or sarong is an easy cover when you suddenly need one.
Lip cream: because nobody likes to have dry lips.
Camera: so many memories
Portable charger: an easy small gadget to carry
PRO TIP: A small back pack is perfect for keeping both hands free. Also consider a waterproof bag to keep in your back pack.
Should I have travel insurance?
Arrival at Cairo International airport
Absolutely. You know the saying. “If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel”
Medical expenses in a country that is not your own is a dicey situation to gamble on. Imagine not having travel insurance in such times of medical emergency. Also consider cancellations, lost luggage and other personal items. Don’t even consider not having travel insurance.
PRO TIP: take out travel insurance.
Conclusion to best Egypt Travel Tips
Egypt is a wonderful country to explore, and with my best tips for visiting Egypt, you are well on your way to having that lifetime bucket list dream ticked off.
For more on when to go, you might like this Best time to visit Egypt.
Also this comprehensive guide on Egypt’s main tourist attractions will have you dreaming of visiting sooner rather than later. Or go to my Egypt gallery to really feel inspired.
Our group tours include airport transfers, Egyptologist guide, Australian Tour Leader, entrance fees and many meals. We know the culture well and the challenges that comes with visiting a country like Egypt on an independent scale.
Check out our Group Tours page and Private Tours page for more information of visiting Egypt.
Happy Travels to Egypt.
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