Egypt Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Go

Every day we welcome first-time visitors to Egypt at our hotel in Giza. These are the tips we share most often to help them feel at home from the first day.

Visa

Many nationalities can get a visa on arrival at Egyptian airports or apply for an e-visa online before travelling. Rules change from time to time and depend on your passport, so check the official requirements before you book your flights.

Money and tipping

• The currency is the Egyptian pound. Cards are accepted in hotels and larger shops, but cash is useful for markets, taxis and small purchases.
• Tipping is part of daily life in Egypt. Keep small notes for drivers, guides, boat crews and hotel staff.
• In markets, prices are often open to friendly negotiation.

What to wear

Light, loose clothing that covers the shoulders and knees is comfortable and respectful, especially in towns and religious sites. Women should bring a scarf to cover their hair when visiting mosques. Swimwear is fine at beach resorts and hotel pools.

Staying healthy

• Drink bottled water and stay well hydrated, especially in summer.
• Use sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses at the open-air sites.
• Bring basic medicines and your usual prescriptions, and buy travel insurance.

Getting around

Distances in Egypt are long. Domestic flights save time between Cairo, Luxor, Aswan and the Red Sea, while Nile cruises let you travel and sightsee at the same time. A private car with a driver is the easiest way to move between sites.

Photography

Most sites allow photography, but rules for cameras, tripods and drones vary, and drones are not allowed without a permit. Always ask before photographing people.