When visiting Egypt, what sights and experiences shouldn’t you miss?

Because of its extensive past, Egypt has much to offer visitors, too much for any single trip to accomplish. For this reason, visitors visiting Egypt should ensure not to miss out on various sights and experiences. Among these are:

Traveling to and exploring the White Desert Scuba diving or snorkeling in Sinai or the cities on the Red Sea Seeing the Pyramids of Giza Visiting the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities
Enjoying classic Egyptian meat dishes like kebab and kofta; seeing the Monastery of St. Catherine in Sinai; cruising the Nile from Luxor to Aswan or vice versa; Exploring Luxor and its temples, including Karnak.

Experience the magic of Egyptian oasis towns like Siwa and Bahariya, visit the West Bank of Luxor to see the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Valley of the Kings, and travel to the Abu Simbel temple complex. Try some Egyptian “Fool” beans with “Koshary” pasta for a taste of authentic Egyptian cuisine.

This is only the icing on Egypt’s cake. You can do so in many locations across the country, but if time is of the essence, consider these as a starting point. More magnificent sights await you on your journey.

How can I obtain a visa to travel to Egypt?

To visit Egypt, all foreign nationals must hold a passport valid for at least six months upon arrival and obtain a visa. Travelers can apply for a tourist visa at any Egyptian embassy or consulate worldwide.

For certain nationalities, including Australia, Canada, Croatia, EU countries, Georgia, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Macedonia, South Korea, and the United States, a one-month visa can be purchased upon arrival in Egypt without prior application. This process can be completed quickly at the bank window before going through customs.

Egypt offers three main types of visas:

• Entry Visa: This visa is valid for one month and is granted to non-Egyptian nationals entering the country without a previously obtained visa.
• Transit Visa: Non-Egyptian nationals entering Egypt for a limited period are eligible for this visa due to transit reasons.
• Tourist Visa: This visa is valid for up to three months and allows for single or multiple entries. Most tourists visiting Egypt obtain this visa from an Egyptian embassy or consulate before their arrival.

How can I apply for a visa to enter Egypt if I reside outside my country of nationality?

Suppose an individual has a residence permit in another country. In that case, they can apply for a visa at the Egyptian embassy or consulate in that country or purchase a visa upon arrival at Cairo, Hurghada, or Luxor airports. If they do not have a residence permit, they must obtain a visa from the Egyptian embassy or consulate in the country that issued their passport.

If I already have a visa to enter Sinai, can I visit other destinations in Egypt?

While the Sinai visa allows tourists to travel anywhere within the Sinai Peninsula, visiting other parts of Egypt, such as Cairo, Hurghada, Luxor, or Aswan, requires obtaining a new visa using the methods described in the first question.

Can I extend my tourist visa after it expires?

It is possible to extend tourist visas; however, this process requires an extension from the Tahrir compound building in Cairo or other government offices in different cities. There is a two-week grace period after the visa expires, during which an extension can be obtained without penalty.

Can I combine my visit to Egypt with another country?

Tourists who visit Egypt often explore other countries in the Middle East or the region during the same trip. We offer tourism services in Jordan, Turkey, and Dubai; you can find more information on our website.

Are there direct flights from the United States to Egypt?

EgyptAir, the official Egyptian airline, operates direct flights between the United States and Cairo. There are five flights per week from New York’s John F. Kennedy Airport to Cairo, for twelve hours. EgyptAir also offers direct flights from Los Angeles to Cairo, which take approximately seventeen hours. However, most US tourists have a layover in Europe (usually London or Paris) or a Middle Eastern country (often Morocco).

If I arrive at Cairo Airport from the US, which terminal will I land at?

The terminal you will arrive at depends on the airline you are using. Airlines from Western Europe and America primarily use Terminal 3, also known as the new terminal in Egypt. On the other hand, EgyptAir, Arab, African, and Eastern European airlines typically land at Terminal 1.

Is Egypt a safe destination for travelers?

Egypt is considered a safe country to visit. It has been a popular tourist destination for centuries, and the Egyptians are known for their hospitality and friendly treatment of visitors. The cities in Egypt are generally safe, especially in areas frequented by tourists. Additionally, the Egyptian army and police ensure the security of all archaeological sites, creating a safe environment for travelers. Egypt takes pride in its strong track record of tourism safety and continuously strives to maintain it.

Can women travel alone safely in Egypt?

Many women have traveled alone in Egypt and have had positive experiences in terms of safety. The presence of police, tourist police, and the army is noticeable, providing an additional sense of security. The local Egyptians are generally protective and look out for solo female travelers. Overall, Egypt is considered safer for solo female travelers compared to destinations like Greece, Italy, or Spain.

While the chances of encountering any issues are extremely low, taking standard precautions as you would in any other place is still recommended. Avoid walking alone in deserted areas and opt for a taxi instead. Although you may receive invitations from locals, it is advisable to decline them, as it’s better to exercise caution when dealing with strangers.

What is the standard check-in time at hotels in Egypt?

Like hotels worldwide, most hotels in Egypt have a check-in time around midday, usually around 12 or 1 p.m. If you arrive at the hotel late at night or early in the morning, there might be an additional charge to access your room immediately without waiting until the regular check-in time.

What types of hotels are available in Egypt?

Egypt offers a wide range of accommodations for travelers, catering to various preferences. There is something for everyone, from renowned luxury hotels affiliated with international chains like Movenpick, Hilton, Four Seasons, and Sofitel to more straightforward lodging options such as inns. The local hotels in Egypt have their rating system loosely categorized on a 5-star scale, although it may differ from international standards used elsewhere.

Why should one choose a hotel near the pyramids instead of the city center?

If you have limited time in Cairo and plan to visit the pyramids, it is more convenient to stay in Giza. The traffic from the city center to the pyramids can cause significant delays, potentially exceeding an hour. Staying near the pyramids allows for an early start, especially if you wish to explore the Great Pyramid and be on the plateau before 8 a.m.

For more extended stays in Cairo, the hotels near the pyramids provide a resort-like experience with expansive grounds, outdoor pools, and comfortable areas not typically found in downtown hotels. While downtown hotels are often tall towers with limited space, pyramid hotels have more land but limited height.

Cost is also a factor to consider, as a simple 4-star hotel in the city center tends to be more expensive than a 5-star resort near the pyramids. This price difference is similar to many major cities worldwide, where city-center properties are more costly. Despite staying near the pyramids, many hotels offer free shuttle buses for guests to explore nearby shopping and dining areas. Taxis are also affordable, making them a cost-effective choice overall.

Are there any specific health concerns to be aware of in Egypt?
In general, tourists may encounter some unique health issues in Egypt. To avoid stomach upsets, it is advisable to be cautious about drinking tap water and eating at local restaurants not recommended by tour guides or hotel staff. Additionally, during the summer, travelers should take precautions to avoid sunburn or heatstroke due to the intense heat and sun exposure. These risks can be mitigated by taking necessary precautions, such as drinking bottled water and practicing sun protection.

What is the official currency of Egypt?

The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian pound, denoted as LE (short for “Livres Égyptiennes” in French) or EGP (Egyptian Pound). One Egyptian pound is subdivided into 100 piasters or “irsh” in Arabic. Banknotes are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 pounds, while coins are issued in 25 piasters, 50 piasters, and 1 pound. It is advisable to carry smaller denominations for convenience, especially when paying for taxis or offering tips.

Can I exchange dollars, euros, or other currencies in Egypt?

There are numerous banks and currency exchange offices in Egypt where you can exchange cash and traveler’s checks. Additionally, many tourist establishments such as shops, restaurants, and bars accept dollars or euros at rates relatively close to the official exchange rates. However, it is recommended to be aware of the current exchange rate between the dollar/euro and the Egyptian pound to ensure fair transactions.

Is credit card usage common in Egypt?

Credit cards are widely accepted in Egypt, particularly in hotels, most shops, restaurants, and cafes. Popular credit card brands like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are commonly used. Even in popular markets like Khan Al Khalili and Luxor Tourist Market, you will find many stores that accept credit cards for payment.

Is it customary to tip in Egypt?

Tipping, known as “bakhshish” in Egypt, is a common practice due to the relatively low salaries of many professionals. It is considered customary to offer tips in various situations.

How much should I tip?

The amount of the tip depends on the situation. In restaurants, it is customary to give between 5 to 10% of the total bill directly to the waiter, even if a service charge is included. It is important to note that the service charge does not go to the waiter. For minor services such as assistance with luggage or car parking, offering a few Egyptian pounds is appropriate, usually not exceeding five pounds. Sometimes, you may encounter attendants who maintain restroom cleanliness; giving them one Egyptian pound is appropriate.

Tipping tour guides and drivers is entirely optional. If you choose to list them, feel free to give an amount that reflects the value of the experience they provided.

Can I easily arrange a transfer from Cairo International Airport to downtown or other parts of the city?

From Cairo International Airport, you can easily reach many different destinations. Taking a taxi is the quickest and most common option. As soon as you leave the terminal, cab drivers will be waiting to pick you up. Avoid taking older black cabs, as their drivers may overcharge you because they don’t have meters.

If you’re in the city proper, the new white taxis with meters are your best bet; nevertheless, even at the airport, you might have to haggle for a fair fare. More than 60 pounds are required for a trip to central Cairo.

Cairo Airport offers a limousine service, which is more expensive than other forms of transportation but still inexpensive compared to the cost of transportation in North America or much of Europe.

Those already in Egypt can plan and reserve a seat on the Cairo Airport Shuttle Bus by dialing the country code +970. Car rentals are available upon arrival, although there may be a brief wait at a desk in the terminal’s main lobby. While the cost is higher than taking a cab, you avoid the trouble of haggling over fare and get to ride in a car tailored to your specific needs.

Can a train be taken from Cairo to one of Egypt’s other main cities?

There are two main types of trains in Egypt: the faster, more expensive ones that travel between major cities every 15 minutes or so and the slower, more affordable ones that stop in smaller communities every 15 to 20 minutes. The local train is overcrowded and uncomfortable. First- and second-class vehicles with air conditioning are standard on most trains. Both are convenient, but for a small surcharge, first-class seats in a train car are more spacious and luxurious.

From Cairo to Alexandria, there are 15 daily air-conditioned trains, and from Cairo to Luxor and Aswan, there are 5 planes that stop in all the critical Nile Valley cities en route. From Cairo to Luxor and Aswan, you can take one of two overnight trains, each providing a private cabin and a cooked meal. In Egypt, there is often a great need for rail transportation. Booking your tickets in advance is highly recommended.

Is it advisable to travel to far-flung Egyptian cities like Aswan via rail from Cairo?

The quality of Egypt’s rail network is high. The Suez Canal, the Delta, and the Nile Valley are all linked by Egyptian rail. In the summer, tourists can take the train to one of Egypt’s Mediterranean shore resorts.

The high cost of domestic flights in Egypt can make flying a less viable option for those on a tighter budget. Train travel is more expensive, but it’s cheaper than flying, and you can view the entire Nile Valley as you go. Tourists can take sleeper trains from Cairo to Aswan and Luxor; trains leave Cairo at 9 p.m. and arrive in Luxor at 4 a.m. and 7 a.m. in Aswan. Guests on these trains will enjoy a private cabin, a hot meal service, and a smooth ride.

You can travel to all of these locations by bus from the Turgoman bus station, which is close to Cairo’s central railway station. Buses are another low-cost mode of transportation.

Do trains run between Cairo, Hurghada, and Sharm el Sheikh?

Since trains do not travel south of Ismailia along the Red Sea coast or through the Suez Canal, reaching many cities in Sinai by rail from Egypt is impossible. Visitors can take buses from Cairo to other towns like Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada, bypassing the need for expensive flights. You could also hire a cab to take you there, but the fee may add up quickly without anyone else going with you.

Is it advisable for visitors to take public transportation to Cairo and Alexandria?

Cities like Cairo and Alexandria have bus systems that span the entire city. These buses are cheap (price less than 1 EGP), but they are not always easy to navigate because it is not always clear where each bus will take you. Therefore, visitors visiting Cairo are advised to use other modes of transportation, such as taxis and the metro.

Should one take the Cairo metro?

The metro is a convenient method of transportation within Cairo. The metro has quickly replaced vehicles and pedestrians as the quickest mode of transit in Egypt’s capital city. Getting around central Cairo is accessible with the metro, even if it can get congested during peak times.

The Cairo metro runs from Helwan’s southernmost tip to the meadow’s northernmost point. The second line connects the neighborhoods of Shubra and Giza in northwestern Cairo and western Greater Cairo, respectively. Even though only five stations are currently operational on the third line of the Cairo Metro, it will eventually reach the airport.

One EGP will get you from one station on any of the three lines to another. Taking one of the two designated women-only cars may be a good idea when the metro is packed.

When traveling to Egypt, can I bring cigarettes and alcohol with me?

Cigarettes and alcohol are always cheaper if purchased upon arrival, so that’s what most people do. Duty-free shopping can be found in Cairo, Luxor, Hurghada, El Gouna, and Sharm el Sheikh airports. At the port of entry, visitors can purchase up to three liters of alcohol and 200 cigarettes.

Can I get alcohol and cigarettes after arriving in Egypt, or must I buy them at the airport?

Tourists have 48 hours from their arrival in Egypt to purchase these items from any shop in the country. The airports in Cairo, Luxor, Hurghada, El Gouna, and Sharm el Sheikh all include duty-free shopping. There are many additional options in and around Cairo and at the El Gouna, Hurghada, and Sharm el Sheikh hotels.

When traveling to Egypt, can I carry my alcohol and cigarettes?

The maximum allowed amounts of cigarettes and alcohol to be carried into Egypt are 1 liter of alcohol and 200 cigarettes, respectively.

Do people in Egypt use any other languages except Arabic?

The vast majority of urban Egyptians can speak or understand basic English. Fewer and fewer Egyptians can speak other European languages. However, many in the tourism industry understand that not all tourists will talk in Arabic and have a working knowledge of English and other languages.

Do I need to know Arabic before traveling to Egypt?

Learning a few words in Arabic to say hello or thank you is always helpful. It would help if you acquired some essential Arabic words to travel to locations other than typical tourist hotspots. Even if there is a linguistic issue, Egyptians will always be helpful and courteous toward everyone.

When do Egyptian museums and other historical sites open and close?

From 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, you can visit most of Egypt’s museums, historical sites, and monuments. Open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, the hours of operation for outdoor historical sites like the Pyramids of Giza. The hours of operation for some museums range from 9 am to 4 pm and 5 pm to 9 pm. Remember that these times will shift significantly during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

When do various Egyptian shops open and close?

It’s not uncommon for Egyptian shops to open at 10 am and stay open until 10 pm. However, in tourist regions like Khan al-Khalili and within hotels, and in large towns like Cairo, Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh, Luxor, and Alexandria, many businesses remain open well into the night. Store hours may shift substantially during Ramadan, the Islamic holy month, when many companies close for the day or stay open quite late.

Is it acceptable for non-Muslims to visit Egypt’s ancient mosques?

Mosques in Egypt often do not restrict attendance by non-Muslims. You should always ask permission before entering a mosque in Egypt, especially outside the major cities of Cairo and Alexandria, where locals may not be used to seeing foreigners. Nearly all Egyptian mosques invite visitors, except the Hussein Mosque and the Sayyida Zeinab Mosque, where close relatives of the Prophet Muhammad are buried. Most mosques ask visitors at any hour of the day or night, including Fridays and during the five daily prayers.

How should one dress if going to a mosque in Egypt?

Visiting a mosque in Egypt does not need any specific attire. However, it is strongly encouraged, and women may be asked to cover their hair, arms, and legs in some mosques. Before entering the mosque, both men and women must remove their footwear.

Which Cairo mosques have the most significant historical significance?

Cairo is known as “the city of a thousand minarets” due to its stunning mosques. The most well-known is the Al-Azhar Mosque, initially constructed in 970 AD and later restored and expanded several times, the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As, and the Mohammed Ali Mosque in the Citadel of Salah al-Din, all of which date back to the early nineteenth century. First constructed in 640 CE, the Mosque of Ahmed Ibn Tulun was followed by the Mosque of Hakim in 1013 CE. Except for Fridays, visitors to these mosques are always welcome.

Can visitors to Egypt visit any of the country’s Christian sites?

Churches in Egypt are given the same respect as mosques. Except for the 40 days of Lent, most churches and monasteries welcome visitors of all nationalities. Dressing modestly is advised when visiting Christian sites in Egypt.

Where can I find the most famous churches in Egypt?

In the first century A.D., Christians began spreading throughout Egypt. Egypt is home to numerous fascinating churches and monasteries because it is the cradle of Christian monasticism. These include the monastery of St. Anthony and the monastery of St. Paul near the Red Sea to the northeast of Hurghada, as well as the monasteries of St. Catherine in Sinai, Abu Makar, and the Syrians. The Hanging Church in Coptic Cairo and the St. Barbara Church in Alexandria are just two examples of the many ancient churches in Egypt.

May I bring a camera to Egypt to snap pictures of the ancient sites?

Most Egyptian museums and historical sites permit photography, while some charge an admission fee if you bring a camera. However, visitors are asked to leave their cameras at the front desk of the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities and the Valley of the Kings in Luxor, where photographing is strictly forbidden.

Can I legally photograph Egyptians in public places?

While Egyptians are generally welcoming, it is nevertheless considered polite to ask permission before taking photos of anyone (particularly ladies) or anything (especially in stores). Military installations, airports, dams, bridges, and the subway system have strict no-photography policies. There will be notices posted at all locations where photography is not permitted.