Egypt travel tips
Here are some Egypt travel tips to help you have a safe and enjoyable trip:
Dress appropriately: Egypt is a conservative country, so it’s important to dress modestly and avoid revealing clothing. When visiting mosques, women are required to cover their hair and arms, and men should wear long pants.
Respect local customs: Egyptians are known for their hospitality, but it’s important to respect their customs and traditions. Avoid showing public displays of affection, and don’t take photographs of people without their permission.
Stay hydrated: Egypt is a hot and dry country, so it’s important to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. It’s recommended to drink bottled water and avoid drinking tap water or unfiltered water.
Beware of scams: Tourists are often targeted by scammers in Egypt, so it’s important to be aware of common scams. Don’t accept unsolicited offers for tours or services, and be wary of anyone who asks for money or tries to distract you.
Be cautious of street food: Egyptian cuisine is delicious, but it’s important to be cautious of street food to avoid getting sick. Stick to food that is cooked or can be peeled, and avoid drinking tap water or ice cubes.
Use licensed taxis: If you’re taking a taxi, it’s recommended to use a licensed taxi or ride-sharing app to avoid getting scammed or overcharged.
Check for travel advisories: Egypt has had some security concerns in the past, so it’s important to check for travel advisories and take precautions while traveling. Avoid traveling to some areas of Egypt, particularly near the borders with Libya and Sudan.
Learn some Arabic: Learning some basic Arabic phrases can help you communicate with locals and show respect for their culture.
Bargain politely: Bargaining is common in Egypt, particularly in markets and bazaars. However, it’s important to do so politely and with a smile.
Plan ahead: Egypt is home to many famous tourist attractions, such as the Pyramids of Giza and the Valley of the Kings. It’s important to plan ahead and purchase tickets in advance for some of these attractions to avoid long lines and crowds.
Get a visa: US citizens need a visa to enter Egypt. You can get a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa before your trip.
Use sunscreen: Egypt is a sunny country, so it’s important to use sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
Bring comfortable shoes: Egypt has many historical sites and attractions, such as the Pyramids of Giza and the Valley of the Kings. It’s important to bring comfortable shoes to explore these sites without getting tired.
Visit in the off-season: The peak season for tourism in Egypt is from October to February, which means that attractions can be crowded and prices can be higher. Visiting in the off-season can mean fewer crowds and lower prices.
Be prepared for street vendors: Egypt has many street vendors selling everything from souvenirs to food. Be prepared to politely decline their offers if you’re not interested in buying anything.
Respect Islamic culture: Islam is the main religion in Egypt, so it’s important to respect Islamic culture. This means avoiding eating, drinking, or smoking in public during Ramadan, and avoiding visiting mosques during prayer times.
Use cash: While credit cards are accepted at some places, it’s best to have cash on hand for smaller purchases and tips.
Learn about the culture: Egypt has a rich history and culture, so take some time to learn about the country’s traditions, customs, and etiquette before your trip.
Be mindful of your belongings: Pickpocketing and theft can occur in crowded areas and tourist attractions, so be mindful of your belongings and keep them close to you. It’s also a good idea to use a money belt to keep your valuables safe.
Be respectful of photography: Photography is not allowed in some areas, such as military sites or airports. It’s also important to ask for permission before taking photos of people, particularly women and children.
Be prepared for the weather: Egypt can experience extreme weather conditions, including sandstorms and high temperatures. Make sure to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly.
Don’t forget travel insurance: Travel insurance can provide peace of mind and protection in case of unforeseen events, such as medical emergencies or trip cancellations.
Check travel advisories: The U.S. Department of State issues travel advisories for countries around the world, including Egypt. Check the latest travel advisories before your trip to stay informed about any safety concerns.
Register with the U.S. embassy: It’s a good idea to register with the U.S. embassy in Egypt so they can provide assistance in case of an emergency.
Bring cash in U.S. dollars: While credit cards are accepted in some places, it’s a good idea to bring cash in U.S. dollars for smaller purchases and tips.
Consider a tour: Joining a tour group can be a good way to navigate Egypt’s many attractions and stay safe while traveling.
Use reputable transportation: Stick to reputable transportation options, such as taxis from established companies or ride-sharing apps, to ensure your safety.
Have emergency information on hand: Keep emergency information, such as your hotel address and phone number, and the contact information for the U.S. embassy, on hand in case of an emergency.
There are several airlines that operate flights to Egypt from various destinations around the world. Some of the major airlines that offer flights to Egypt include:
EgyptAir: The national airline of Egypt offers flights to Cairo and other destinations within Egypt from major cities around the world.
Emirates: Emirates operates flights to Cairo and other destinations in Egypt from many international cities, with connections through their hub in Dubai.
Turkish Airlines: Turkish Airlines offers flights to Cairo and other Egyptian destinations from many cities around the world, with connections through their hub in Istanbul.
Etihad Airways: Etihad Airways operates flights to Cairo and other Egyptian destinations from many international cities, with connections through their hub in Abu Dhabi.
Lufthansa: Lufthansa offers flights to Cairo and other destinations in Egypt from many cities around the world, with connections through their hub in Frankfurt.
Other airlines that offer flights to Egypt include Air France, British Airways, KLM, Qatar Airways, and Saudia.
When booking your flights to Egypt, make sure to check for any travel restrictions and entry requirements due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and book with a flexible cancellation policy in case your travel plans change.