Insider Travel Tips

How long can you vacation in Egypt?

Tourists with single-entry visas issued by the Egyptian government can stay in the country for up to 30 days; these visas are valid for six months. Multiple-entry visas are also valid for six months and allow a collective stay of up to 90 days. Depending on where a visitor is from, visas may be obtained through Egypt’s embassies and consulates, online or on arrival at major Egyptian airports. All foreigners must hold passports that are valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in the country.

What currency does Egypt use?

Egypt’s official currency is the Egyptian pound, which trades at around 49 pounds to $1 USD. American dollars are accepted in some larger hotels or tourist spots, but this should not be relied on. On the whole, cash is king in Egypt as many local restaurants, shops and tour operators do not have credit card facilities. However, you should be able to pay by card at most mid-range and high-end stores, restaurants and hotels; just make sure to check first.

Do I need to tip in Egypt?

Tipping is both customary and expected in Egypt, with the tip amount depending on the service provided. In restaurants, it is customary to tip between 10 and 15 percent of the total bill. For hotel staff such as housekeepers, bellhops, and doormen, a gratuity of 5 USD per service is appropriate. With tour guides, tips of 20 USD per day is the norm, depending on the length and quality of the tour. Even the simplest tasks, such as giving directions or posing for a photograph, are rewarded with small tips, so it’s a good idea to carry small bills wherever you may go.

Is Egypt LGBTQ+ friendly?

Although queer people in Egypt have no legal protections from discrimination and many facets of LGBTQ+ culture are suppressed, it is generally safe for LGBTQ+ travellers to visit the country as long as caution and discretion are exercised. Given Egypt’s conservative Islamic character, dressing in a modest fashion and refraining from public displays of affection of any kind are advisable for all individuals and couples, including queer ones. For maximum safety, it is also recommended that LGBTQ+ visitors avoid using queer dating apps while in the country. Non-binary and transgender individuals may find it trickier to navigate a society that conforms to strict gender roles (even though men In Egypt commonly hold hands, link arms and greet each other with kisses on the cheek). Using an affirming tour guide and/or travelling with a group can add extra layers of protection for queer travellers while also facilitating casual encounters with Egyptians, who are on the whole welcoming and eager to show off their country.

How much is a trip to Egypt?

Egypt is not an expensive country to travel in yet offers tremendous experiential value. With a budget ranging from $1,500 to $3,000 USD, a first-time visitor can experience the essence of the country, from the bustle of Cairo and grandeur of the Pyramids to the haunting beauty of the Nile and other Pharaonic sites. In general, a budget traveller can expect to spend around $30 to $50 per day in Egypt, while a mid-range traveller can expect to spend around $50 to $100 a day.

What to pack for a trip to Egypt?

Given that most trips to Egypt involve shuttling between cities and sites via bus, boat or plane, it’s advisable to keep to a single suitcase and to pack lightly. Travel wear should be lightweight, breathable and easily layered to accommodate both cool interiors and extreme outdoor heat. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as are hats and scarves for both protection from the sun and for entering religious sites. Pack a swimsuit if you’re going to a beach resort or visiting a hammam.

Do many Egyptians speak English?

Most educated Egyptians are fluent in English or French or both, as are most hospitality workers. Foreign languages are less common outside of major centres, so it’s a good idea to learn a few phrases in Arabic such as hello (salamun alaykum with strangers and marhaba or ahlan among friends), please (law samaht) and thank you (shokran).

Can I drink the tap water in Egypt?

It isn’t advisable to drink tap water in Egypt. Instead, drink bottled water or fill your own reusable bottle (ideally one with a filter) from a reliable water source.

What’s the best way to get around in Egypt?

From Cairo’s bustling roadways to more remote parts, it’s best to let locals do the driving in Egypt, whether it’s a metered cab in the capital (make sure the meter is working before setting off), a private driver or a prearranged tour. Flying is the easiest and fastest way to travel longer distances, with several departures per day connecting Cairo with a host of popular domestic destinations. Every trip to Egypt should also involve a cruise on the Nile—options range from one of a few hours on a traditional dahabiya or a days-long luxury excursion on a modern river liner from Cairo to Luxor, the Valley of the Kings and more.