WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU TRAVEL TO EGYPT

We traveled Egypt for 10 days and loved every part of the trip. We arranged everything ourselves, we took night trains, interacted with the locals, ate delicious food, enjoyed the ancient wonders,  relaxed by the Nile and we couldn’t reccommend you more to travel to Egypt!

Here are some things you should know when planning and visiting Egypt:

Best Time to Visit:

Egypt’s climate can be rather unforgiving. To make the most of your trip, you may consider visiting between October and April when the weather is milder and more pleasant for exploring the country’s many treasures. During this period, you’ll enjoy cooler temperatures and more comfortable conditions.

We traveled Egypt at the end of May and it was a bit of a struggle with the heat, but we still had an amazing time. The good thing is that there will be less tourists and you can bargain more if you travel to Egypt in the shoulder season.

Health Precautions:

Before you travel to Egypt, consult your doctor for recommended vaccinations. Travel insurance is a must (this is the one I use and reccommend:SafetyWing), and consider packing essentials like sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and insect repellent, especially if you plan to explore the Nile Delta region. Do not drink water from tap and my advice would be to not use it for teeth brushing or washing fruits or vegetables. Use only bottled water.

Currency and Money Matters:

The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP), and you’ll find ATMs widely available in major cities. While credit cards are commonly accepted, it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments, markets, and tipping. Just be mindful of exchange rates and any withdrawal fees that may apply.

Language:

Arabic is the official language, but don’t worry if your Arabic skills are rusty. English is spoken and understood in many tourist areas, making communication relatively easy. However, learning a few basic Arabic phrases can enhance your travel experience and foster positive interactions with locals.

Safety:

Egypt is generally a safe destination for tourists. We traveled on our own for 10 days, used local transportation such as public vans, night train, stayed in homestays and had no issue. The only part we did not enjoy, but it was not a safety issue, was the fact that everyone harrases you for money, they will ask money for everything, and sellers usually try to rip off tourists. But we knew what to expect before going so it was ok.

Cultural Sensitivity:

Egyptians are known for their warmth and hospitality, so it’s important to reciprocate with respect for their culture. Dressing modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites, is a sign of respect. There is no mandatory dresscode, but I usually cover my arms and knees in Muslim countries. Please be mindful of the country’s culture when you travel and respect it. You are a guest there, you are not meant to change their environment. For example: in Aswan, we were asked when crossing the Nile in a boat, that women and men stay on different sides of the boat. Me and Alex happily agreed but there was a couple that started shouting that it’s not normal and didn’t want to comply. As a tourist, I was so embarrased…

Tipping:

Tipping, or “baksheesh” as it’s known locally, is an integral part of Egyptian culture. Be prepared to tip service workers, including hotel staff, tour guides, and restaurant servers. It’s not mandatory, but you will feel as it is. We usually tipped 10% at restaurants and the waiters were happy.

Prices for Tourists are Higher:

It’s worth noting that prices for goods and services in tourist areas can be inflated compared to local areas. This is a common phenomenon in many tourist destinations worldwide. To navigate this, embrace the art of haggling in markets and souks. Bargaining is not only expected but also a delightful way to engage with local vendors and secure unique souvenirs at fair prices, so don’t be shy!

Transportation:

Egypt boasts a comprehensive transportation network, offering travelers a range of options, including buses, trains, and domestic flights. We traveled on our own and it was not too difficult to get around. Between the big cities such as Aswan, Luxor and Cairo we took one domestic plane and trains. The only downside is that the costs are not super affordable as you would expect (at least not for tourists!). In major cities like Cairo, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are prevalent. When using taxis, negotiate fares in advance or insist on using the meter to avoid disputes.

 

As you prepare for your own adventure, remember that Egypt is a tapestry of history, culture, and adventure waiting to be explored. Be respectful, stay open-minded, and embrace the magic that this land of pharaohs and pyramids has to offer.

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