Egypt Travel Information

Practical knowledge our specialists share with every guest before they arrive. None of this is meant to replace your own due diligence — it's the “here's what to know” sheet we wish every traveller had before stepping off the plane in Cairo.

1. Best time to visit

October to April is our busy season. Daytime temperatures in Cairo and Luxor sit in the comfortable 20–28°C range, evenings are cool, and Nile cruises run at full schedule. May to September is hot — Aswan can exceed 40°C — but rates drop and the sites are quieter. Hot-air balloons over Luxor fly best in cooler months.

2. Currency and money

The local currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP). USD and EUR are accepted at hotels, larger shops, and most tourism vendors. Cards work in cities; carry small EGP notes for tips, taxis, market stalls, and public restrooms (5–20 EGP each). ATMs are common in cities and major resorts; withdraw modest amounts at a time.

3. Tipping (baksheesh)

Tipping is part of the service economy here. As a guideline:

• Egyptologist guide: USD 30–50 per touring day for the group.
• Driver: USD 10–15 per touring day.
• Hotel housekeeping: USD 1–2 per night.
• Restaurant: 10% if not already added as service.
• Felucca / boatman: 50–100 EGP per group.

Tipping is always discretionary — only tip when service was good. We never include tips in the trip price.

4. Internal transport

Domestic flights (EgyptAir) connect Cairo with Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, and Sharm el-Sheikh. They are the fastest way to cover the country and are part of every multi-city itinerary we plan. Rail (Cairo → Luxor → Aswan) is a charming alternative for travellers with extra time. We organise all internal segments end-to-end.

5. Electricity and connectivity

Power is 220V at 50Hz with European-style two-pin sockets (Type C/F). Bring a universal adapter. Mobile coverage is good in cities and along the Nile corridor; less so in the western desert. Most hotels we work with offer free Wi-Fi. eSIM cards work on Vodafone Egypt and Etisalat.

6. Dress code and etiquette

Egypt is conservative outside resort enclaves. For day touring, shoulders and knees covered is a respectful default; lightweight cotton is your friend in any season. Women entering mosques will be given a scarf at the door. Beach and pool wear is fine inside resorts. Public displays of affection are minimal.

7. Photography

Cameras are welcome at most ancient sites for a small extra fee. Avoid photographing military, police, embassies, or bridges. Inside tombs, flash is prohibited but some sites now allow phone photography for an extra ticket. Always ask before photographing people.

8. Packing list

• Lightweight, breathable clothing in earth tones.
• One pair of broken-in walking shoes (sites have uneven stone).
• Wide-brimmed hat, high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses.
• Reusable water bottle — many of our hotels offer filtered refills.
• Light jacket or shawl for evenings November to March.
• Modest layers if visiting religious sites.
• Power adapter (Type C/F) and charging cable.
• Small first-aid kit including rehydration salts.

9. Time zone and daily rhythm

Egypt runs on EET (UTC+2). The local week runs Sunday to Thursday. Friday is the holy day; some smaller shops close, but tourism services continue. Lunch tends to be late (1–3pm), dinner even later (8–10pm). Plan accordingly.