Visiting Egypt for the first time is like stepping into a dream where ancient wonders coexist with bustling bazaars, golden deserts, and beautiful Nile vistas. Home to pharaohs, pyramids, and rich traditions, Egypt is an adventure that draws travelers from all corners of the world. However, navigating its unique culture and geography can feel daunting. This guide will give Egypt tips for first-timers, covering everything from logistics to cultural expectations and experiences to make your adventure as rewarding as possible.

What Should You Know About Visas for Egypt?

Before you start on your Egyptian adventure and wonder what is Egypt like, it's crucial to understand the visa process. Egypt requires tourists from most countries to obtain a visa to enter. Fortunately, the process is relatively straightforward.

Tourist Visa Options:

• Visa on Arrival: Many nationalities can get a visa on arrival at major Egyptian airports. The visa on arrival costs about USD 25, and you must pay in cash.

• E-Visa: For convenience, you can apply for an e-visa online before your trip. This allows you to avoid long lines at the airport and makes the entry process much smoother. The e-visa typically takes around 5-7 days to be approved.

For a hassle-free experience, you can rely on Atlys, an innovative service that ensures your Egypt visa application is processed smoothly and within the promised timeframe. 

Important Note: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended entry date. Ensure you check this before applying for your visa.

Do You Need a Local SIM Card in Egypt?

Staying connected in Egypt is essential for navigation, contacting loved ones, or arranging transport. Buying a local SIM card is highly recommended, and getting one at the airport or in major cities is quite easy.

SIM Card Providers:

• Vodafone, Orange, and Etisalat are the primary mobile operators in Egypt. Each offers various packages that provide data and call time at reasonable prices.

• Upon arrival at the Cairo International Airport or Hurghada Airport, you'll find kiosks for these providers where you can purchase a SIM card. A package with a good amount of data should cost you around $15-20 USD.

Is Travel Insurance Necessary for Egypt?

While Egypt is generally safe for tourists, having travel insurance is essential to ensure peace of mind. Travel insurance covers:

• Medical Emergencies: Egyptian healthcare can be costly without insurance.

• Lost or Stolen Items: Crowded tourist areas can be hotspots for pickpocketing.

• Travel Interruptions: Cancellations or delays can occur, and insurance protects you.

Tip: Look for travel insurance that covers adventurous activities such as scuba diving or camel riding, which are popular in Egypt.

How Can You Communicate in Egypt?

Arabic is the official language of Egypt, with Egyptian Arabic being the most widely spoken dialect. However, many Egyptians working in tourism understand and speak English, especially in popular areas such as Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan.

Useful Arabic Phrases:

• Hello: Salam or Ahlan

• Thank You: Shukran

• No, Thank You: La Shukran

• How Much?: Kam el sa’er?

Making an effort to learn some basic Arabic words can greatly improve your experience and interactions. Locals are appreciative when visitors try to speak their language, which often leads to more positive encounters.

What Should You Wear in Egypt?

One of the important things to know before going to Egypt is that it is a predominantly Muslim country, and the dress code tends to be more conservative. Respecting local customs and wearing appropriate clothing will make your experience smoother.

For Women:

• Wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the shoulders, chest, and knees.

• In rural areas or when visiting mosques, it’s advisable to bring a scarf to cover your head.

For Men:

• Men can wear short-sleeved shirts and long trousers. Men in Egypt do not commonly wear shorts, especially outside resort towns.

In coastal resort areas like Sharm El-Sheikh or Dahab, the dress code is more relaxed, and beach attire is perfectly acceptable.

Tip: Light and breathable fabrics are best during the summer, as temperatures can soar, especially in cities like Luxor and Aswan.

What Weather Should You Expect in Egypt?

Egypt is known for its dry, desert climate with significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. Here’s what you need to know:

Summer (June-August):

• Very hot: Temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F), especially in cities like Luxor.

• The coast (e.g., Hurghada and Dahab) offers cooler temperatures and breezes, making them more bearable during the summer.

Winter (October-March):

• Mild temperatures: These are ideal for exploring ancient monuments and desert regions. Daytime temperatures range from 20-25°C (68-77°F), with cooler evenings.

Read the best time to visit Egypt for more information and plan accordingly.

Is It Easy to Drive in Egypt?

Driving in Egypt is not recommended for inexperienced travelers. The streets, especially in Cairo, are crowded and chaotic, and driving norms are much more relaxed than in Western countries.

• Traffic Rules: Honking is common, traffic signals are often ignored, and cars share space with pedestrians, bicycles, and tuk-tuks.

• Renting a Car: If you’re determined to drive, consider renting a car with a driver. It’s affordable, and the driver will know local road etiquette.

Tip: For a smoother and safer experience, consider taxis, ride-hailing apps (Uber/Careem), or hiring a private guide for longer excursions.

How is Public Transport in Egypt?

Egypt has diverse public transport options, from buses and trains to taxis and ride-sharing apps.

• Cairo Metro: Cairo is home to Africa’s only metro system, which is affordable and convenient for navigating certain parts of the city.

• Buses and Microbuses: Buses are a very local way to travel but may not be the most comfortable for tourists. Microbuses can be crowded and challenging to navigate if you don’t speak Arabic.

• Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps: Uber and Careem are widely available in Cairo and Alexandria, making them the most convenient option for tourists. For taxis, insist on using the meter or negotiate a price before starting the journey.

Tip: When using public transport, ensure you have small denominations of Egyptian Pounds for easy payments.

What Should You Know About Airports and Domestic Flights in Egypt?

Egypt’s major airports include Cairo International Airport, Hurghada Airport, and Sharm El-Sheikh International Airport. Domestic flights are convenient for travelling between cities like Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and Hurghada.

Domestic Carriers: EgyptAir, Air Cairo, and Nile Air offer regular domestic routes. Flights are usually affordable and much faster than bus or train options.

Tip: You should book your domestic flights in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (e.g., winter holidays and spring).

How Should You Handle Payments in Egypt?

The currency used in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Notes are available in denominations ranging from 1 to 200 EGP, and coins are also available.

Currency Exchange:

• You can exchange money at airports, banks, and exchange offices in major cities.

• ATMs are widely available in Cairo, Luxor, and other tourist centers. You can withdraw Egyptian Pounds using your debit or credit card.

• Forex cards provide a convenient and secure way to make payments while traveling in Egypt. These prepaid cards can be loaded with multiple foreign currencies, making transactions straightforward without the need for frequent currency exchanges or handling large amounts of cash. 

Tip: Carry cash for smaller transactions, such as markets, local eateries, and public transport. Cash is still widely used in Egypt, so it is advised to carry cash. 

Can You Use Credit Cards and ATMs in Egypt?

Credit Cards are generally accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops in large cities and tourist areas. However, many smaller vendors prefer cash, and ATMs are readily available if you need to withdraw local currency.

Using ATMs:

• Stick to ATMs at banks for added security. Most machines accept Visa and Mastercard.

• Carrying cash, especially in rural areas, is advisable as credit cards may not be accepted.

Tip: Notify your bank of your travel plans before departing to avoid blocking your transactions.

How Does Tipping Work in Egypt?

Tipping, or baksheesh, is a fundamental part of Egyptian culture. It is often expected for almost every service provided. Here’s what you need to know:

• Restaurants: Leave 5-10% if a service charge isn’t already added.

• Hotel Staff: Tip 20-50 EGP to porters and housekeeping.

• Drivers and Guides: Tipping 50-100 EGP is customary, depending on the service.

Tip: Carry small bills for tipping to avoid over-tipping due to lack of change.

Is the Food and Water Safe in Egypt?

Egyptian cuisine is a wonderful mixture of flavors. Staples include koshari (a mix of pasta, lentils, and chickpeas), ful medames (stewed fava beans), and ta’ameya (Egyptian falafel).

Safety Tips:

• Water: Stick to bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth, as tap water is not recommended.

• Street Food: Street food can be safe, but choose popular stalls with a high turnover rate to ensure freshness.

Tip: Avoid ice cubes unless you are sure they are made from filtered water.

Is Egypt Safe for Tourists?

Egypt is generally safe for tourists, with tourism playing an important economic role. However, it’s always advisable to be cautious:

• Petty Theft: Pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure.

• Travel Restrictions: Check with local authorities or your country’s travel advisories about areas that may be restricted for tourists.

Tip: Register with your country’s embassy and have travel insurance for added safety. Tourists should also follow the Egyptian rules for safe travel.

What Should You Know About Public Restrooms and Toilets in Egypt?

Public restrooms in Egypt can be unpredictable in terms of cleanliness. Many tourist areas have restrooms, but they may not always be well-maintained.

Important Considerations:

• Carry Toilet Paper: It’s common for restrooms to lack toilet paper, so having some with you is helpful.

• Small Fees: Public restrooms often require a small fee, usually 1-5 EGP.

Should You Hire a Travel Company or Guide in Egypt?

Hiring a local guide or joining a tour is highly recommended, especially when visiting Egypt’s ancient sites. A knowledgeable guide brings history to life and helps you navigate logistics smoothly.

Benefits:

• Insights: Guides provide context and stories that can make your visit to a temple or tomb more meaningful.

• Hassle-Free Experience: Arranging a guide or booking through a reputable travel company can save you from transportation and entrance hassles.

Tip: Use well-reviewed companies or guides recommended by hotels or travel forums like TripAdvisor.

What Experiences Can You Have in Egypt?

Visiting Egypt means immersing yourself in an array of rich experiences. Here’s a list of what you shouldn’t miss:

Historic Sites and Monuments

• Pyramids of Giza: Witness the grandeur of the Great Pyramid, Khafre, and the Sphinx.

• Luxor and Karnak Temples: Explore temples dedicated to ancient gods and walk the Avenue of Sphinxes.

• Valley of the Kings: Visit the tombs of famous pharaohs, including the one of Tutankhamun.

Nile River Cruise

A Nile River cruise from Luxor to Aswan offers a different perspective of Egypt’s landscapes. You’ll visit Kom Ombo Temple and Edfu Temple and witness beautiful riverside life.

Cairo’s Markets and Islamic Architecture

Visit Khan El Khalili Bazaar in Cairo for a shopping experience and take in the intricate beauty of the Mosque of Muhammad Ali and Al-Azhar Mosque.

Diving in the Red Sea

Egypt is famous for its Red Sea resorts like Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada, which offer some of the world's best diving and snorkeling experiences, with vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

Desert Adventures

Experience the beauty of Egypt’s deserts by visiting the White Desert or taking a camel trek to see the sunset over the dunes. You can also explore Siwa Oasis, renowned for its beautiful landscapes and springs.

Cultural Experiences

Attend a Nubian village visit near Aswan to get a taste of unique local culture, or watch the Whirling Dervishes show in Cairo, a mesmerizing performance highlighting a Sufi spiritual practice.

Conclusion

Egypt is a fascinating blend of ancient wonders, lively culture, and awe-inspiring landscapes. From carefully preparing visas and travel insurance to respecting local customs, there’s much to consider before embarking on this journey. Once you arrive, you’ll find Egypt welcoming and captivating. Whether wandering among the Pyramids, cruising the Nile, or diving into the vibrant Red Sea. With an open mind, a bit of preparation, and a sense of adventure, your first trip to Egypt will surely be an unforgettable experience.