Essential Travel Guide

Everything you need to know before visiting Egypt

Basic Arabic Phrases

مرحبا
Marhaba
Hello
شكرا
Shukran
Thank you
من فضلك
Min fadlak
Please
السلام عليكم
As-salamu alaykum
Peace be upon you (greeting)
معذرة
Ma'dhira
Excuse me
نعم / لا
Naam / La
Yes / No
كم السعر؟
Kam as-si'r?
How much?
أين؟
Ayna?
Where?
مع السلامة
Ma'a salama
Goodbye
إن شاء الله
Inshallah
God willing
الحمد لله
Alhamdulillah
Thank God
لا أفهم
La afham
I don't understand

Etiquette & Customs

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Cover shoulders and knees. Women should consider bringing a light scarf for mosques and conservative areas.

Right Hand Rule

Always use your right hand when eating, greeting, or giving/receiving items. The left hand is traditionally considered unclean.

Remove Shoes

Take off your shoes before entering homes, mosques, and some traditional establishments. Follow your host's lead.

Accept Hospitality

Refusing tea or food can be seen as impolite. Accept at least a small portion to show respect for your host's generosity.

Public Affection

Avoid public displays of affection like hugging or kissing. Holding hands may be acceptable in tourist areas but is generally discouraged.

Tipping (Baksheesh)

Tipping is customary and expected in Egypt. Keep small bills for guides, hotel staff, restaurant servers, and bathroom attendants.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March-May)

20-28°C (68-82°F)

Best for: All activities, temple visits, desert tours

Ideal weather with moderate temperatures and low humidity. Perfect for sightseeing and outdoor adventures.

Autumn (Sept-Nov)

22-30°C (72-86°F)

Best for: Cultural tours, beach activities, diving

Excellent weather with fewer crowds than winter. Great water temperatures for Red Sea activities.

Winter (Dec-Feb)

15-22°C (59-72°F)

Best for: Nile cruises, archaeological sites

Peak tourist season with pleasant temperatures. Cooler evenings require light jackets. Can be crowded at major sites.

Summer (Jun-Aug)

30-40°C (86-104°F)

Best for: Red Sea resorts, beach lounging

Very hot, especially in Upper Egypt. Best for beach holidays. Fewer tourists and lower prices.

Practical Tips

Currency

Egyptian Pound (EGP)

  • ATMs widely available in cities
  • Credit cards accepted at hotels and restaurants
  • Carry cash for markets and small vendors
  • Small bills useful for tipping

Safety

Egypt is safe for tourists

  • Use reputable tour operators
  • Avoid isolated areas after dark
  • Keep valuables secure
  • Tourist police present at major sites

Health

Stay healthy during your visit

  • Drink bottled water only
  • Use sunscreen and stay hydrated
  • Bring basic medications
  • Travel insurance recommended

Connectivity

Stay connected

  • WiFi available in most hotels
  • Local SIM cards affordable
  • Major carriers: Vodafone, Orange, Etisalat
  • 4G coverage in major cities

Photography

Capture memories respectfully

  • Ask permission before photographing people
  • Camera fees at some archaeological sites
  • No flash photography in tombs/museums
  • Sunrise/sunset best for pyramid photos

Shopping

Bargaining is expected

  • Start at 50% of asking price
  • Khan el-Khalili bazaar in Cairo
  • Buy papyrus, spices, jewelry, textiles
  • Fixed prices in malls and modern shops

Getting Around

Domestic Flights

Quick connections between Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, and Sharm El Sheikh. Saves time for long distances.

Trains

Comfortable sleeper trains between Cairo and Luxor/Aswan. First-class recommended for tourists.

Taxis & Uber

Uber and Careem available in major cities. Always agree on taxi fares before starting your journey.

Tour Buses

Organized tours provide comfortable, air-conditioned transport between attractions with expert guides.

Quick Facts

Language: Arabic (English widely spoken in tourist areas)
Population: 114+ million
Capital: Cairo
Time Zone: GMT+2
Electricity: 220V, 50Hz (Type C & F plugs)
Emergency: Police 122, Ambulance 123