Any 5-year-old might point out Cairo, its camel rides, pyramids, and pharaohs when asked what they know about Egypt, but the thing is - Egypt has a whole lot more going for it. We’re talking about a country that built entire cities for the dead (necropolises) and worshipped gods ranging from cats to crocodiles.

And while the French might be known for love, Egypt was the OG when it came to romance, holding the rights to the world’s oldest love poem. Not too shabby for a country that invented the first written language system in the world, right?

And that's just the tip of the iceberg. This country is a mind-blowing journey into the heart of ancient history, culture, and quirk. Between ancient tombs, bustling bazaars, and trying some koshari from a street vendor, you’ll find yourself indulging in incredibly unique experiences. So throw on that sunscreen, and prepare for one heck of an adventure.

Best Time to Visit

• Avoiding the Crowds: While December and January are peak tourist months due to the pleasant weather, consider visiting in the shoulder months of October or March for fewer crowds and better prices.

For a more detailed overview, check out our blog on the best time to visit Egypt.

Time Zone & Local Climate

Egypt operates on Eastern European Time (EET), which is UTC +2. This means that Egypt is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), aligning with many Eastern European countries. During certain periods, Egypt might also observe daylight saving time (though this can vary), which could shift the time offset temporarily to UTC +3.

You'll most likely be flying into Cairo, but climate is all about extremes. Think scorching deserts by day, chilly breezes at night, and some unpredictable variations in between.

Climate Lowdown: When to Expect What

1. Summer (May to September): Summers in Egypt can hit 40°C (104°F) or more, especially in Upper Egypt (Luxor and Aswan). Cairo and coastal spots like Alexandria are a bit cooler, but you’ll still need a lot of water, sunscreen, and shade.

2. Winter (October to February)

3. Shoulder Season (March-April, October-November): These are the golden months to visit, with mild, sunny days and cool evenings. Perfect for exploring, snapping pics, and generally avoiding extremes.

Packing Essentials

So let’s break it down for you, because Egypt is a fashion paradox — you’ll need to stay cool, stay covered, and be ready to handle the sand and sun.

• Light, Breathable Clothing

• Layers for the Desert Nights: Desert temperatures can drop like a mic at midnight, so don’t leave without a cozy hoodie, light jacket, or shawl for the evenings. The chill is real.

• Sunscreen & Sunglasses: SPF is your new BFF. Egypt’s sun is relentless, so pack high SPF sunscreen and reapply like it’s your job. And don’t forget UV-blocking shades — the desert glare is no joke.

• Comfortable Walking Shoes: Sandals might seem appealing, but dusty streets and rocky temple floors say otherwise. Closed-toe, comfy shoes are your go-to, especially if you’re planning to hit temples, markets, or the Giza Plateau.

• Scarf or Shawl: Multi-use hack! A scarf can protect you from sunburn, double as a shawl for chilly nights, or help you cover up in places where modesty is appreciated (think mosques or conservative towns).

• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, fam. Egypt is dry, and you’ll want water within reach at all times. Refill stations aren’t everywhere, but if you’re visiting hotels or major tourist stops, you can fill up without guilt (and save some plastic).

Pro Packing Tips

• Skip the Heavy Layers: Egyptian winters aren’t arctic, so leave the bulky sweaters at home. Lightweight jackets or cardigans work perfectly.

• Sand-proof Your Gear: The Sahara finds its way everywhere. Protect cameras, phones, and valuables by keeping them in zip-lock bags or cases when you’re out adventuring.

• Avoid White Clothes: They won’t stay white for long. Egypt’s sandy, dusty roads mean that whites quickly become, well, not white. Aim for earth tones, neutrals, or patterns to keep your look fresh.

• Portable Charger: Long travel days and endless photo ops mean your phone will be on low battery fast. Keep a power bank handy.

• Power Adapter: Egypt uses the two-round-pin plug (Type C or F), which is standard across much of Europe. The voltage is 220V with a frequency of 50Hz — pretty standard, but always carry a universal power adapter with you on any trip to stay on the safer side.

For a better grasp on what to pack and what to leave out, check out our blog on what to pack for Egypt.

The Local Language

Arabic is the official language, and while English is widely understood in tourist areas, learning a few common Arabic phrases can go a long way.

Egyptian Arabic is widely understood across the Arab world due to Egypt's influence in media (especially films and TV). But it also has unique vocabulary, expressions, and pronunciation that set it apart from other dialects.

The pronunciation is softer compared to Gulf Arabic and has some distinctive sounds, particularly in how they pronounce certain letters like the letter "ج" (which sounds like "g" in Egyptian, but like "j" in other dialects).

Here are some basics to get you started:

• "Ahlan" – (ah-lan) – Hello

• "Shukran" – (shoo-krahn) – Thank you

• "Aywa" – (eye-wah) – Yes

• "La" – (lah) – No

• "Min fadlak" – (meen fahd-lahk) – Excuse me / Please

• "Feen?" – (feen) – Where? (e.g., "Feen el-hammam?" – Where’s the bathroom?)

• "Inta betekalem English?" – (inta beh-teh-ka-lem en-gleesh) – Do you speak English?

• "Ana mesh batekalem Arabi" – (ana mesh bah-teh-ka-lem ah-rah-bee) – I don’t speak Arabic

When in doubt, use Google Translate’s voice feature or ask a friendly local for help.

Settling into Your Hotel in Egypt

Step 1: Check-In

Walk into your hotel, take a deep breath, and head straight to the front desk with your passport and booking details in hand.

Expect the usual request for your passport for verification, and don’t forget to ask for it back once you’re done. Some hotels may also want to see your visa (if you haven’t already submitted it online or with your booking).

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Ask about the location of your room, particularly in larger hotels. If you’re in a busy area, such as Cairo, rooms facing the street can be noisy. Requesting a quieter room can make for a more restful stay.

Step 2: Settle In, Egypt-Style

Before you dash out to explore the local souks or the Nile’s riverside, take a moment to unwind and get to know your new digs. Peek at the amenities in your room—whether it's a mini-fridge stocked with Egyptian treats like tamr (dried dates).

Take a few minutes to get familiar with the essentials, like the air conditioning (a must in Egypt’s heat!), TV, and Wi-Fi. If the Wi-Fi password isn’t immediately visible, don’t hesitate to ring up the front desk and ask—they’ll be happy to help.

If you’re lucky, you’ll find yourself in one of those hotels in Egypt that welcome guests with complimentary hibiscus tea or karkadeh—a refreshing local drink that’s as vibrant as it is delicious.

And if you picked the right room, there’s a good chance you’ll be treated to a view of Cairo’s skyline, the Pyramids, or the stunning Nile River.

Step 3: Familiarize Yourself with Your Hotel Surroundings

After unpacking and a quick recharge, step outside and explore. Egypt’s neighborhoods are packed with lively souks, narrow alleys, and rich history at every turn. A quick walk could lead you to a bustling market, a hidden café, or a historic mosque.

Grab a business card from the hotel reception—it has the address and contact info, so if you get lost, a local or taxi driver can help guide you back.

Find Out Key Spots Nearby

• Food & Souks: Hunt down local dishes like koshari or falafel at street vendors or cafés. Ask staff for their favorite food joints—they know where the best flavors hide.

• Cafés: Egypt’s café scene ranges from old-school ahwas with strong coffee to hip spots with Nile views. Perfect for tea, people-watching, or a breather.

• Transport: Familiarize yourself with nearby metro stations, and download Careem—it’s the Egyptian Uber and super handy.

• ATMs, Pharmacies, Convenience Stores: Spot ATMs from banks like CIB, Banque Misr, and QNB, and pharmacies like Seif or El Ezaby, along with Carrefour or Metro Mart for snacks and essentials.

Step 4: Set Up Your Base Camp

• Pack comfortable shoes because you’ll be doing a lot of walking through ancient ruins and bustling bazaars. 

• Bring a sturdy power bank—Egypt’s sights are endless, and so are the photo ops.

• With the sun shining down on you almost year-round, don’t forget sunscreen, a good hat, and maybe a light scarf for extra shade. A reusable water bottle is key for staying hydrated.

• Lastly, use the hotel Wi-Fi to download offline maps and any travel or translation apps you might need since internet access can be spotty in some areas, especially around historical sites. We’ll cover which apps to download further down the blog.

What to Know Before You Step Outside in Egypt 

1. Understanding Local Customs and Etiquette

• Dress Code: Egypt's got style, but it’s on the modest side. Outside major cities like Cairo, keep it classy—shoulders and knees covered, especially at religious sites. When entering religious sites, leave shoes outside and women are advised to bring a scard to cover their hair.

• Greetings: A firm handshake is cool, but keep in mind that some locals won’t shake hands with the opposite gender. Flash a smile and hit ’em with an “As-salamu alaykum” (peace be upon you) for major local points.

• Tipping (Baksheesh): Baksheesh is like Egypt's unofficial currency. Slip a little something (around 5-10 EGP) to porters, guides, or anyone lending a helping hand. Small gestures go a long way.

• Drug Laws: Irrespective of the rules in your home country, Egypt’s stance on drugs is a hard no. Don’t test the waters—it’s serious time behind bars for any drug possession.

• Photography: Before snapping that pic of locals or certain sites, ask first. People, especially women, may prefer not to be photographed. Plus, keep the camera away from government and military spots.

For a better understanding, check out our blog on the rules to follow as a tourist in Egypt.

2. Safety and Health Tips

• Travel Insurance: It is strongly recommended to purchase travel insurance that covers health, theft, and potential cancellations. Medical care can vary, so it’s best to be prepared. VisitorsCoverage, InsureMyTrip, and AXA Travel Insurance are popular names.

• Food and Water Safety: Avoid drinking tap water in Egypt. Stick to bottled water (which is widely available). Also, be cautious with street food—choose places with high turnover to avoid foodborne illnesses.

• Electricity: Many hotels have backup generators, but it’s a good idea to ask if your room is equipped to handle power outages, particularly if you’re relying on charging electronics. An adapter for Egyptian outlets (220V, Type C and F plugs) is also essential.

• Vaccinations: Check if any vaccinations are required or recommended before travel (e.g., Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Diphtheria). Be sure to consult with a healthcare provider before your trip.

• Emergency Numbers: Keep emergency contact numbers handy. The general emergency number for police is 122, and for ambulances, it's 123.

3. Transportation and Getting Around

• Taxis and Ride-Hailing: Uber and Careem are widely available in Cairo and other major cities, making them a safer alternative to local taxis. Ensure the fare is agreed upon or the meter is on if using traditional taxis.

• Public Transport: Cairo’s metro is affordable, clean, and efficient for getting around the city, but it can be crowded during peak hours. Always keep an eye on your belongings.

• Private Transfers: If travelling to more remote areas like Luxor, Aswan, or the Red Sea resorts, you may want to pre-arrange private transfers through your hotel or tour operators.

We’ll cover this in detail in a subsequent blog.

4. Money and Budgeting

Before you start going out and about in the city, check out our quick guide to Egyptian currency and which Egyptian ATMs to use to fill your wallet/purse with some Egyptian Pounds. 

• ATMs: ATMs are aplenty in major cities, but it’s always good to have cash on hand when traveling to more rural or remote areas.

• Credit Cards: Major hotels, restaurants, and shops accept credit cards, but it’s advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors or in more traditional markets (souks).

• Currency Exchange: Currency exchange rates can vary, so it's often better to exchange money in reputable spots within Egypt rather than doing it beforehand in your home country. Exchange rates at airports are not always favorable, so try to exchange at local banks or official exchange offices.

5. Get Your Local SIM / eSIM

Egypt has four primary mobile network operators offering prepaid SIM cards suitable for tourists:

Vodafone Egypt Prepaid SIM Cards

Vodafone provides several prepaid SIM card options, commonly referred to as "Flex" plans. These plans utilize a unit system called "Flexes," which can be used interchangeably for calls, SMS, and data, offering flexibility to suit various communication needs.

Popular Vodafone Flex Plans

Here are some of the prevalent Flex plans offered by Vodafone Egypt:

• Flex 25: Priced at 25 EGP, this plan offers 600 Flexes, valid for 28 days.

• Flex 50: For 50 EGP, you receive 1400 Flexes, with a 28-day validity.

• Flex 70: At 70 EGP, this plan provides 2200 Flexes, also valid for 28 days.

• Flex 100: This plan costs 100 EGP and includes 3300 Flexes, with a 28-day validity.

• Flex 200: For 200 EGP, you get 7000 Flexes, valid for 28 days.

*Note: 1 Flex can be used for 1 minute of calling, 1 SMS, or a specific amount of data usage, depending on the service.

Tourist SIM Card Options

Vodafone Egypt also offers Tourist SIM cards designed specifically for visitors:

• Tourist 250: Priced at 255 EGP, this package includes 10 GB of data, 200 local minutes, and 20 international minutes, valid for 28 days.

• Tourist 500: For 505 EGP, you receive 30 GB of data, 200 local minutes, and 30 international minutes, with a 28-day validity.

2. Orange Egypt

Orange is a prominent provider with solid urban coverage and competitive pricing. Orange offers a tourist SIM card for 84 EGP, which includes 2,000 units for calls. Data packages are available separately, starting from 5,000 MB for 40 EGP.

Orange Egypt offers a variety of plans to suit different needs. Go Packages start at EGP 20 for 3500 units, valid for 7 days, while Flex Packages begin at EGP 25 for 800 units over 28 days, allowing flexible use for minutes, data, or social media. For pure data needs, Internet Packages range from EGP 1 for 25 MB (1 day) to EGP 30 for 1.25 GB (30 days). Social Packages target heavy social media users, with 500 MB for EGP 5 (7 days) or 1.25 GB for EGP 10 (28 days). Recharge cards from EGP 10 also provide quick top-ups.

3. Etisalat Egypt

Etisalat provides competitive pricing and decent coverage, though it may be less extensive in remote areas compared to Vodafone and Orange. Etisalat offers various data plans, such as 3.5 GB for 30 EGP and 16 GB for 100 EGP, both valid for 30 days.

What to Know Before Buying a SIM in Egypt

• Registration: Egyptian regulations require SIM card registration with a valid passport. Ensure you have your passport when purchasing.

• Network Speed: Expect solid 4G LTE speeds in the city hotspots, hitting around 15-25 Mbps—plenty for Insta scrolls, streaming, and video calls. But once you’re out in the sticks or desert, speeds can drop.

Recommendations:

• Coverage: For the most extensive coverage, especially in rural or less populated areas, Vodafone is often recommended.

• Pricing: If budget is a primary concern and your travels are mainly within urban centers, Orange and Etisalat offer competitive pricing with good coverage.

• eSIM Options: If your device supports eSIM technology, consider purchasing an eSIM before your trip for seamless connectivity upon arrival.

Essential Apps to Download

1. Google Maps – Your Compass in Cairo and Beyond

Egypt’s cities are packed with winding roads, historical alleys, and market squares that can be overwhelming to navigate, especially when traffic can be chaotic. With Google Maps, you’ll have a reliable navigation tool to locate attractions, find local hotspots, and even avoid peak-traffic areas. From pinpointing the Pyramids in Giza to finding hidden gems in Alexandria, this app will make exploring Egypt a breeze.

Key Features:

• Offline Maps: Download Egypt maps offline before you go, ensuring access even in areas with spotty connection, like parts of the Sahara or rural villages.

• Walking Mode: When wandering around bustling souks or historical neighborhoods, use the walking mode to navigate narrow alleys and crowded spots effortlessly.

Use the “Save” feature to mark places you want to visit, such as key landmarks or favorite eateries, so they’re easily accessible in a pinch.

2. Google Translate – Your Arabic Language Lifeline

Arabic can be challenging, especially Egyptian Arabic, which has its own unique dialect and expressions. Google Translate can help you bridge the language gap when asking for directions, ordering food, or negotiating in markets. It’s the go-to for a smoother cultural exchange without the language barrier.

Key Features:

• Voice Translation: Perfect for conversations. Just say what you need to translate, and the app speaks back the translation, making interactions with locals easier.

• Camera Translation: Point your camera at Arabic menus, street signs, or shop labels, and Google Translate will instantly convert the text into English. No more accidental orders or misreading signs.

Download Arabic offline in the app. Egypt has places with limited connectivity, and having translation capabilities offline ensures you’re covered.

3. Careem – Egypt’s Trusted Ride-Sharing Service

Egypt’s roads can feel like organized chaos, especially in big cities like Cairo, and navigating on your own might be daunting. Careem, the region’s equivalent to Uber, is the most convenient, safe, and reliable way to get around. Whether you need a quick ride or are heading across town, Careem has multiple vehicle options, from economy to luxury.

Key Features:

• Multiple Payment Options: Cash or card. If you don’t have a local payment setup, paying in cash is widely accepted.

• Ride Options: Choose from various categories—Go (economy), Go Plus (larger cars), and even Tuk-tuks for a truly local experience in smaller areas.

Careem offers live GPS tracking in case you’d like to let friends or family know exactly where you are during the ride.

4. XE Currency – Stay Savvy with Exchange Rates

Egypt is a cash-heavy economy, and knowing how much you’re spending in Egyptian pounds (EGP) is key to keeping track of your budget. XE Currency allows you to calculate conversions on the spot and monitor exchange rates, so you know exactly how much you’re handing over for those handcrafted souvenirs.

Key Features:

• Exchange Rate Alerts: Set alerts for currency changes, helpful if you’re exchanging larger sums and want the best value for your money.

• Offline Mode: XE Currency remembers your last updated rates, so you can access conversion info even in spots without Wi-Fi or data.

Check rates before you enter a souk or market, so you can bargain confidently without fumbling for conversion rates on the spot.

5. AirVisual – Real-Time Air Quality Monitoring

Cairo and other major Egyptian cities can experience high pollution levels, which may affect outdoor activities. AirVisual provides real-time air quality data, helping you plan around dustier days if you’re sensitive to air quality.

Key Features:

• AQI Alerts: Set up notifications for high AQI levels to avoid long outdoor trips on days with poor air quality.

• Health Recommendations: AirVisual offers specific health advice based on the day’s air quality, from wearing a mask to avoiding extended outdoor exposure.

Check the app before planning visits to outdoor sites like the Pyramids or the Citadel for a more comfortable experience.

6. Talabat – The Best Food Delivery in Egypt

Key Features:

• Cash or Card Payment: You can pay by cash or card, making it accessible for travelers.

• Late-Night Delivery: Perfect for late-night cravings or when you’re back after a long day of exploring.

Explore Talabat’s local section to try Egyptian street food-style dishes delivered fresh, without the wait at crowded food stalls.

Scams to Avoid

1. The “Friendly” Tour Guide Scam

You may find yourself “adopted” by a random local who insists on showing you around. They might start by pointing out a few attractions, telling you cool stories, or even calling themselves your “new Egyptian friend.” But, spoiler alert: by the end, they’ll be demanding a guide fee you never agreed to.

How to Dodge It: Politely thank them, but say you’re just exploring on your own. If someone tags along uninvited, be firm but courteous, and set boundaries early.

2. The Camel or Horse “Mafia”

Here’s how this one goes: you agree on a price for a camel or horse ride around the pyramids (classic), only to find out halfway through that the price was per minute, not per ride. Suddenly, your quick photo-op has turned into a full-on negotiation (and sometimes an argument) to avoid paying an absurd amount for a few minutes in the saddle.

How to Dodge It: Confirm every single detail before you hop on. Ask if the price is per hour, per ride, or per person. If something sounds too vague, walk away and find another ride.

3. The “I’m Out of Change” Trick

This one’s sneaky. You hand over a 200 EGP bill for a souvenir, meal, or tip, and the vendor casually says, “Sorry, I don’t have change.” Instead of them finding change, they’ll suggest you buy more items to cover the difference or simply pocket the extra money.

How to Dodge It: Carry small bills. Break down your big bills at reputable places like hotels or large stores before heading out. If they pull the “no change” trick, insist they go get some or wait for you to pay the exact amount.

4. The Unscheduled Shop Stop

How to Dodge It

5. The Museum Ticket “Upgrade”

Sometimes, when you’re outside the Egyptian Museum or the Pyramids, a “helpful” local tells you your ticket isn’t valid or you need an extra “permit.” They offer to “help” you buy the right ticket—for a higher fee, of course.

How to Dodge It: Buy your tickets only at official counters. Ignore anyone outside selling “upgrades” or “special permits” unless you see a uniformed official inside the venue itself verifying this information.

6. Taxi Tactics: The “Broken” Meter

Egyptian taxis are notorious for “broken” meters, especially when they see a tourist hop in. Suddenly, your five-minute ride is costing more than your dinner. Some drivers might even take you the scenic (aka longer) route to run up the fare.

How to Dodge It: Before you even get in, ask if the meter works or agree on a price. If they try to negotiate mid-ride, stand your ground or get out as soon as it’s safe. Better yet, use a ride-share app like Careem, which has upfront pricing.

7. The “Look, but Don’t Touch” Vendor Trap

Browsing at a souk or market? Be careful—if you touch something, some vendors will claim that’s as good as buying it. They’ll start wrapping it up before you’ve even had a chance to say “no thanks,” then pressure you into paying.

How to Dodge It: Keep your hands to yourself unless you’re genuinely interested. If a vendor tries to guilt you, just smile, put the item back, and walk away. They’ll usually let it go once they realize you’re not a pushover.

8. The “Photo Fee” at Attractions

Here’s a fun one: a “helpful” local offers to take a picture of you at a famous spot. Snap, snap, smile, and—surprise!—they suddenly demand a tip for their “service.” This is also common with camel owners or anyone with a photogenic animal hanging around.

How to Dodge It: Either say no or, if you do want the photo, agree on a price first. Or just bring a selfie stick and take your own touristy shots.

9. The Money Swap

Some vendors may “accidentally” swap your big bill for a smaller one and claim you’ve given them the wrong amount. For instance, you hand over a 200 EGP, but they’ll say you only gave 50 EGP, hoping you’ll get confused and hand over more.

How to Dodge It: When paying, clearly say the amount you’re handing over and watch the vendor’s hands closely. If they try to pull this trick, call them out with confidence. They’ll usually back down.

10. Fake Guides Inside Sites

Inside famous attractions, like temples or museums, you might meet locals pretending to be official guides. They’ll start explaining things as if they’re legit tour guides, then, at the end, demand a “guide fee.”

How to Dodge It: Politely decline assistance unless you’ve arranged for an official guide ahead of time. If you’re approached, just smile, shake your head, and keep walking.

11. “Exclusive” Papyrus Shops

Papyrus art is one of Egypt’s must-have souvenirs, but be careful of “papyrus” that’s actually banana leaf (yep, fake papyrus). Some sellers will pass off banana leaf as papyrus, which costs much less and is less durable.

How to Dodge It: Visit official government-certified papyrus shops for genuine pieces. And if you’re buying from a market stall, ask how it’s made and assess for yourself—real papyrus has a distinct, cross-hatched texture.

12. “Oh, You Dropped Something!”

This is a classic: someone “helpfully” points out that you’ve “dropped” something, like a scarf or bracelet. When you turn around, they conveniently have it in hand and expect a tip for “helping.” Sometimes, the item isn’t even yours, but they’ll insist you owe them a reward.

How to Dodge It: If you don’t recognize the item, don’t claim it. Politely decline the “help” and walk away. If it is yours, take it without feeling pressured to tip.

Egypt is a Whirlwind of History, Hustle, and Heart

Armed with a bit of know-how, you'll learn to navigate the country like a pro. From dodging the “friendly” guide hustle to snagging the best local SIM for that Instagram feed, you’re all set to get a handle on the basics. You’ll pick up a few Arabic phrases, learn the art of bargaining, and figure out that baksheesh is just a part of the charm here.

So, as you get ready to dive into Egypt’s food, shopping, and sights, keep an open mind and let those unexpected encounters steer the way. Sometimes, the best adventures are the ones you stumble into, when you least expect them.