Essential Pre-Trip Information

Egypt has well-established travel routes and generally high security at major sites, but it’s still important to pay attention to tipping, safety, and food hygiene. The following ten tips cover visas, spending, safety, and cultural etiquette—recommended to review one by one before departure.

1. Visa and Cash: For a visa on arrival, prepare USD 25 for the visa fee and bring no less than USD 2000 equivalent in cash for possible inspection. Keep your hotel reservation and return flight ticket with you.
2. Tipping Culture: Tipping is common in Egypt. Carry small denominations of Egyptian Pounds; tipping is often expected for guides, photography assistance, and luggage service in tourist areas, typically around EGP 5–20.
3. Safety Advice: The security situation is complex in parts of the northern and western deserts of the Sinai Peninsula. Follow advisories from your home country’s foreign ministry and local embassies or consulates. Avoid border areas and military zones.
4. Conservative Dress: When visiting mosques, remove your shoes and cover your hair and limbs. Women may want to carry a light scarf. Daily dress should also be modest.
5. Drinking Water: Drink only bottled water. Be cautious with raw or street food. It’s recommended to bring stomach medicine and common medications.
6. Sun Protection and Hydration: Southern Egypt gets intense sun. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. Avoid prolonged outdoor activities during midday.
7. Ride-Hailing Apps: Use Uber or Careem when possible to avoid fare haggling and route disputes. These apps offer more peace of mind, especially at night.
8. Tickets and Photography: Some attractions and museums prohibit photography or flash. Always check signs and follow the rules to avoid issues.
9. Electricity and Plugs: The voltage is 220V, and the most common plugs are two-pin round European-style. Bring an adapter and power bank.
10. Emergency Numbers: Police 122, Ambulance 123, Fire 180, Tourism Police 126. Also save the contact information for the nearest embassy or consulate in Egypt in advance.

Emergency and Assistance

If you lose documents, fall ill suddenly, or face other emergencies, contact your hotel or tour operator immediately, call local emergency services, and seek help from the nearest embassy or consulate in Egypt. For travel in places like the Sinai Peninsula, stay updated on safety advisories issued by your embassy or consulate.