Top Egypt Travel Tips: How to Organize and Prepare

Egypt, a land of ancient wonders and rich cultural heritage, beckons travelers with its mystique and grandeur. From the iconic pyramids to the serene Nile River, this North African country offers a journey through time and civilization. Planning a trip to Egypt requires careful consideration and preparation to ensure a smooth and memorable experience. Egypt Travel

Travelers embarking on an Egyptian adventure will find a wealth of experiences awaiting them. This article provides essential egypt travel tips to help visitors navigate the complexities of exploring this fascinating destination. From planning an itinerary that includes must-see sites like Aswan and a Nile cruise, to understanding local customs and handling Egyptian currency, these insights will equip tourists to make the most of their time in the land of the pharaohs.

Planning Your Egypt Itinerary

When planning an Egypt itinerary, travelers should consider including a mix of ancient sites, Nile cruises, and beach destinations to experience the country’s diverse offerings. Egypt’s rich history and stunning landscapes provide numerous options for an unforgettable journey. Egypt Travel

Must-See Ancient Sites

Egypt boasts an impressive array of ancient sites that have captivated visitors for centuries. The Pyramids of Giza, located on the outskirts of Cairo, are undoubtedly the most iconic. This complex includes the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the only remaining wonder of the ancient world, along with the Pyramids of Khafre and Menkaure ¹. The enigmatic Sphinx, carved from a single block of stone, stands guard nearby.

In Luxor, travelers can explore the Karnak Temple Complex, known as “the most select of places” in ancient times. This vast complex, covering over 240 acres, was built over approximately 1,500 years and includes spectacular temples, chapels, and obelisks . The nearby Temple of Luxor, beautifully lit at night, is another must-visit site.

The Valley of the Kings, located on the west bank of the Nile opposite Luxor, houses 64 tombs and chambers discovered to date. This includes the famous tomb of Tutankhamun, making it an essential stop for history enthusiasts. Egypt Travel

Benefits of Interior Cabins On a Cruise

Nile Cruise Options

A Nile cruise is an excellent way to experience Egypt’s ancient wonders while enjoying a relaxing journey. Most cruises operate between Luxor and Aswan, stopping at key points of interest along the way. Travelers can choose from various cruise lengths, with options ranging from 3 to 7 nights or more.

When selecting a Nile cruise, consider the following factors:

1. Cruise duration: Shorter cruises of 3-4 nights are available, but a 5-day, 4-night cruise is recommended for a more comprehensive experience .
2. Starting point: Cruises typically begin in either Luxor or Aswan. Consider your overall itinerary when choosing the departure point .
3. Boat quality: Options range from basic felucca boats to luxury cruises with fine dining and nightly entertainment ¹.
4. Inclusions: Look for cruises that include meals, drinks, air conditioning, and guided tours ¹.

For a unique experience, consider a dahabiya (twin-sailed river yacht) or steam ship cruise, which offers a more authentic and immersive journey, albeit at a slower pace. Egypt Travel

Beach Destinations

Egypt’s coastlines offer stunning beach destinations for relaxation and water activities. Here are some top options:

1. Hurghada: This popular Red Sea resort town offers a mix of 5-star resorts and budget hotels, along with excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities .
2. Sharm El Sheik: Known for its world-class diving sites and all-inclusive resorts, Sharm El Sheik is perfect for a beach holiday or diving trip .
3. Dahab: This laid-back coastal town is ideal for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere and great snorkeling, especially at the famous Blue Hole dive site .
4. Marsa Alam: For travelers looking to escape the crowds, Marsa Alam offers pristine beaches and unspoiled natural beauty. It’s an excellent spot for diving and turtle watching .
5. El Gouna: This modern resort town spans 10 km of Red Sea coastline and offers a variety of restaurants, nightlife, and activities in a safe, easily navigable setting .

By incorporating these elements into an Egypt itinerary, travelers can experience the country’s ancient wonders, enjoy a relaxing Nile cruise, and unwind on beautiful beaches, creating a well-rounded and memorable journey through this fascinating land.

Navigating Egyptian Culture

Language Basics

When traveling to Egypt, learning a few basic Arabic phrases can greatly enhance the experience. The phrase “As-aalaam alaikum,” meaning “Peace be upon you,” serves as an all-purpose greeting and is widely appreciated. Travelers can use “Sabah al-khair” for “Good morning” and expect a response of “Sabah al-noor”. Expressing gratitude is essential, and “Shukran” is the Arabic word for “Thank you”. To compliment delicious food, one can use the word “Lazeeza”.

For those seeking assistance, “Saedni Min Fadlek” translates to “Help Me Please” . When inviting someone or being invited, the word “Etfadel” is commonly used . It’s important to note that while many Egyptians in tourist areas speak English, knowing these basic phrases can foster better communication and show respect for the local culture. Egypt Travel

Etiquette and Customs

Understanding Egyptian etiquette is crucial for a respectful and enjoyable visit. Greetings are an essential part of social interactions, and it’s expected to greet everyone present when joining a group. Egyptians generally have a relaxed attitude towards time, and strict punctuality is not commonly practiced.

When visiting someone’s home, it’s customary to remove shoes before entering. Guests should wait for the host to serve them rather than serving themselves, and taking a second helping is considered a compliment. It’s polite to leave a small amount of food on the plate after finishing, symbolizing abundance.

In social settings, it’s important to be aware of certain customs. Pointing the toe, heel, or any part of the foot toward another person is considered impolite. When eating communal food, only the right hand should be used, as the left hand is generally reserved for personal hygiene. Egypt Travel

Dress Code

Dressing appropriately is crucial in Egypt, as modest dress is highly valued in the culture. For women, it’s advisable to wear loose, opaque clothes that cover thighs, upper arms, and chest . In rural areas, covering long hair is also recommended . Men should also dress modestly, avoiding short shorts and tight singlets .

When visiting mosques, both men and women are expected to dress modestly. Men should be covered from below the shoulder to below the knee, while women should be covered from wrist to ankle . It’s also obligatory to remove shoes or wear overshoes when entering a mosque .

At beach resorts, particularly along the Gulf of Aqaba coast, dress codes are more relaxed. However, in public areas away from the beach, it’s still advisable to dress modestly . By respecting local dress codes, travelers can avoid unwanted attention and show respect for Egyptian cultural norms. Egypt Travel

Money Matters in Egypt

Currency Information

The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP), also known as E£ or LE (livre égyptienne). One Egyptian Pound is subdivided into 100 piastres or 1000 milliemes . The currency is mainly paper-based, with notes available in denominations ranging from 25 piastres to 200 pounds . Coins are also in circulation, with denominations of 10, 25, and 50 piastres, as well as 1 pound .

Egyptians often use informal names for different denominations, such as “baku” (pack) for 1,000 EGP notes, “arnab” (rabbit) for 1,000,000 EGP, and “feel” (elephant) for 1,000,000,000 EGP. As of September 20, 2021, one US dollar was equivalent to approximately 15.7 Egyptian pounds.

Budgeting Tips

Egypt is generally considered a budget-friendly destination, with travelers able to explore the country from as little as $20 per day, excluding luxuries . Accommodation costs vary widely, from hostel dorms starting at $5 in cheaper destinations to fancy hotels in Cairo costing upwards of $100 per night . Budget travelers can expect to spend around $10 per night for hostel dorms and $15-$20 for private rooms in basic hotels .

Food is incredibly affordable in Egypt, with meals from local restaurants or street stalls being the least expensive part of a trip . Travelers can spend as little as 50 cents for a quick lunch wrap or up to $10 for a substantial meal at a nice restaurant . Those cooking simple meals with locally sourced ingredients can expect to spend about $5 per day on food .

For sightseeing and activities, it’s advisable to budget around $15 per day for cheaper tours and entry fees . Overall, budget travelers can comfortably explore Egypt for as little as $25 per day by staying in cheap hostels, eating from food stands, and opting for less expensive tours .

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping, known as “backsheesh,” is an integral part of Egyptian culture and is expected in various service industries. In the tourism sector, where workers often earn very little, tipping is considered a standard practice and can significantly supplement their income.

For restaurant services, it’s customary to tip around 12% of the bill if a service charge is not already included. In hotels, tipping is expected for various services: luggage handlers should receive about 20 LE ($1-2) per bag, housekeeping staff 20 LE ($1-2) per night, and restaurant waitstaff 20 LE ($1-2) per meal.

When on tours, it’s recommended to tip drivers around 100 LE for a full day and 50 LE for a half-day. Tour guides should receive 150-200 LE for a full day and 100 LE for a half-day. For Nile River cruises, a general guideline is to tip about $10 per person per night, typically given in an envelope at the end of the trip to be shared among all staff.

It’s worth noting that while tipping is common in tourist areas, Egyptians themselves may not tip in certain situations where it’s customary in other countries, such as for haircuts or taxi rides. However, for tourists, tipping is an expected part of the experience and should be factored into the travel budget, typically accounting for about 5-15% of total trip expenses.

Staying Connected

SIM Cards and Data Plans

Travelers to Egypt have several options for staying connected during their visit. As of early 2024, Egypt had 110.5 million active cellular mobile connections, equivalent to 97.3 percent of the total population. This high penetration rate ensures good mobile coverage across the country.

For tourists, purchasing a local SIM card is often the most cost-effective and convenient option. The main mobile providers in Egypt are Vodafone, Orange, Etisalat, and WE. Vodafone is recommended for its strong network coverage across Egypt . Travelers can easily obtain SIM cards at airport kiosks, mobile phone shops, or official retail stores of the providers.

When purchasing a SIM card, visitors should bring their passport for registration purposes. The activation process typically takes only a few minutes . For example, Vodafone offers a tourist package with 30 GB of data and calling minutes for approximately 500 EGP (USD 10.00) valid for 28 days .

Wi-Fi Availability

Wi-Fi is widely available in Egypt, particularly in tourist areas. Most hotels offer Wi-Fi, though the quality and cost can vary. Some hotels provide free Wi-Fi, while others may charge a daily fee. Wi-Fi is often available in common areas like lobbies, even if not in individual rooms.

Cafés and restaurants in major cities like Cairo, as well as tourist destinations such as Luxor and Sharm El-Sheik, increasingly offer free Wi-Fi. However, travelers should be cautious when using public Wi-Fi networks due to potential security concerns. It’s advisable to avoid conducting sensitive transactions on open Wi-Fi networks.

Social Media Access

Social media usage is prevalent in Egypt, with 45.40 million active social media user identities as of January 2024. This figure represents 40.0 percent of the total population. Among users aged 18 and above, there were 45.15 million social media users, equivalent to 64.1 percent of the adult population.

It’s worth noting that 55.4 percent of Egypt’s total internet user base used at least one social media platform in January 2024. The gender distribution of social media users in Egypt shows that 38.6 percent were female, while 61.4 percent were male.

When using social media in Egypt, travelers should be aware that some platforms may have restrictions. It’s recommended to use a VPN for secure access to social media and other online services . Additionally, travelers should note that making calls through apps like Skype or WhatsApp may require connecting to a Wi-Fi network, as local SIM cards often have VoIP locks.

Conclusion

Exploring Egypt offers a journey through time, blending ancient wonders with modern experiences. From the iconic pyramids to serene Nile cruises and stunning beach destinations, the country has something to offer every traveler. Understanding local customs, managing currency, and staying connected are key to a smooth and enjoyable trip. By keeping these tips in mind, visitors can make the most of their Egyptian adventure.

To wrap up, Egypt’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality make it a captivating destination for tourists. With careful planning and respect for local traditions, travelers can immerse themselves in the country’s unique culture and create unforgettable memories. Whether marveling at ancient monuments, relaxing on pristine beaches, or navigating bustling markets, Egypt promises an enriching experience that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

FAQs

1. How can I prepare my stomach for the conditions in Egypt?
   To cope with the heat in Egypt, it’s crucial to stay hydrated by drinking about 3 liters of water daily. Opt for room temperature beverages as extremely cold drinks can lead to digestive issues and affect your circulation. Tea is a popular choice in Egypt for these reasons.
2. What should I know before traveling to Egypt?
   Ensure you have a valid passport and visa. U.S. citizens can obtain a 30-day tourist visa upon arrival for a fee of 25 USD or a multiple entry visa for 60 USD. For convenience, visas can also be applied for online through the official e-visa website.
3. Are there any cultural norms or unspoken rules I should be aware of in Egypt?
   It’s important to be polite yet firm when declining offers or demands. Public displays of affection, such as kissing and cuddling, are frowned upon, and even holding hands can be disapproved of in more conservative areas.
4. What is the best mode of transportation within Egypt?
   Taxis are a common and flexible way to travel around Egypt. For a hassle-free experience, request the use of the meter to avoid bargaining over fares. This ensures you get a fair price while exploring different locales.
5. What are some general travel tips for visiting Egypt?
   • Visit well-known cities like Sharm El Sheik and Alexandria, depending on the season.
   • Avoid displaying any signs of being gay or discussing politics publicly.
   • Women should dress conservatively for their safety.
   • Opt for using services like Uber or Careem for safer and more reliable transportation.
   • Negotiate prices as vendors often quote higher rates to tourists.
   • If staying in Cairo, consider areas like Downtown and Zamalek which are popular among foreigners and offer many activities.