What should you know before travelling to Egypt? To ensure a smooth and enriching experience, it’s essential to understand Egypt’s entry requirements, local customs, transportation options, safety tips, and more. Below, we break down everything you need to know for a memorable journey to Egypt, with tips from real travellers and cultural insights to make the most of your trip.
Introduction: Why Egypt is an Unmissable Destination
Egypt is a dream destination, with ancient wonders like the Great Pyramids, the Nile River, and the temples of Luxor and Abu Simbel. But like any unique destination, it comes with its cultural nuances and logistical challenges. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate Egypt like a pro and immerse yourself fully in the country’s rich heritage.
Entry Requirements and Health Preparations
Egypt Entry Essentials: To enter Egypt, most tourists need a visa and a passport valid for at least six months.
- Visa Options: U.S., U.K., E.U., and Australian travellers can obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa beforehand. The e-visa is convenient and avoids airport delays.
- Vaccinations and Health Precautions: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine vaccines are recommended. Protect against dehydration, especially if you’ll be visiting desert areas. Carry traveller’s insurance for unexpected medical needs.
Navigating Egypt: Transportation Tips
Egypt Transportation Tips: Use local transport like Cairo’s metro or rideshare apps, but avoid renting a car.
- Public Transit: Egypt’s metro is a fast, safe, and affordable way to explore Cairo. For a more comprehensive Egypt, consider buses or trains, especially to destinations like Luxor and Aswan.
- Rideshare and Taxis: Rideshare apps (like Uber in Cairo) offer fair pricing and a secure way to get around, avoiding haggling.
- Avoid Renting a Car: Roads are chaotic, and traffic rules are fluid. Foreign drivers also face frequent police checkpoints, making self-driving stressful.
Currency, Tipping Culture, and Budgeting
Budgeting for Egypt: Cash is essential in Egypt, and small bills are needed for tips in a variety of situations.
- Currency Needs: Bring Egyptian pounds or use ATMs for withdrawals, as card acceptance is limited. Note that entering Egypt with over 10,000 USD is prohibited.
- Tipping (Bakshish) Culture: Tipping is common and expected for small services. Keep small bills on hand for hotel staff, guides, and transport.
- Budget Advice: Egypt offers affordable options for budget travellers, though mid-range and luxury options are available, particularly for Nile cruises and hotels.
Cultural Etiquette and Dress Code
Respecting Egyptian Customs: Dress modestly and learn a few Arabic phrases to show respect.
- Dress Code: While tourist spots are lenient, dressing conservatively is respectful. Women should wear clothing that covers the knees and shoulders, especially in religious sites.
- Interacting with Locals: Understanding basic Arabic greetings like “Salam Alaikum” (hello) and “Shukran” (thank you) is appreciated and helps interactions.
- Photography: Ask permission before photographing people, and avoid snapping photos of military or police facilities.
Tips for a Better Experience
Touring Egypt’s Ancient Sites: Consider getting a Cairo or Luxor pass for savings and hire a guide for a richer experience.
- Tourist Passes: The Cairo and Luxor passes allow access to multiple sites, saving money if you plan to see many locations.
- Hiring Guides: Guides provide context at historical sites where signage is limited. Group tours are often budget-friendly and make it easy to navigate.
- Photography Rules: Recent changes mean cell phones are often fine for photos without a fee. If using a professional camera or tripod, confirm any fees.
Food, Water Safety, and Dining Tips
Dining in Egypt: Enjoy the local cuisine but avoid drinking tap water.
- Local Dishes: Try iconic Egyptian dishes like koshari, falafel, and ful medames. Street food is safe at busy vendors.
- Water Safety: Avoid drinking tap water; instead, carry bottled water. Eco-conscious travellers should bring a reusable bottle and check for refill stations.
- Dining Etiquette: Expect a service charge and tax at upscale restaurants, but consider tipping on top if the service is exceptional.
Staying Connected and Safe Online
Staying Connected in Egypt: An eSim is convenient but pricier than local sims; using a VPN is wise for public Wi-Fi.
- Sim Cards and Connectivity: Purchase a local SIM card or eSim to stay connected. eSims can be activated before you arrive but are generally more costly.
- Internet Safety: Use a VPN on public networks, which are common in cafes and hotels, to protect your data from potential security risks.
Dos and Don’ts: Quick Reference Guide
- Do dress conservatively, respect local customs, and be polite when interacting with locals.
- Don’t drink tap water or take photos of official buildings or personnel.
- Do keep small changes on hand for tipping and negotiate prices when shopping.
Conclusion
Egypt’s breathtaking history, vibrant culture, and welcoming people make it an unforgettable destination. With these tips, you’ll feel prepared to explore everything Egypt has to offer, from ancient temples to bustling bazaars.