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You should know visa rules, seasonal timing, safety considerations, cultural norms, money & transport basics, and practical tips to make your trip safe and enjoyable.

Visa & Entry Requirements

• Check your nationality: many nationals can obtain an e‑visa online (https://visa2egypt.gov.eg) or visa on arrival; others need to apply at an embassy. Verify before booking.
• Passport validity: typically at least 6 months from entry.
• Tourist tax/fee: some hotels or airports may charge local departure fees—confirm in advance.
• COVID/health: entry rules can change—check current requirements for proof of vaccination or tests before travel.

Best Time to Visit

• Peak season: October–April (cooler weather, ideal for sightseeing and Nile cruises).
• Shoulder months: late September and May can be pleasant with fewer crowds.
• Avoid: July–August if you cannot handle high heat (Cairo and Upper Egypt can exceed 40°C / 104°F).

Safety Tips

• Political stability: monitor travel advisories from your government. Avoid demonstrations and large gatherings.
• Petty crime: pickpocketing and scams occur in tourist areas—use a money belt, avoid displaying valuables.
• Scams/touts: politely decline persistent offers; preagree prices for taxis, guides, and souvenirs.
• Desert/Red Sea safety: use licensed operators for boat trips or desert excursions; check weather advisories.
• Health: drink bottled water, avoid street ice/uncertain food vendors if you have a sensitive stomach; bring basic meds and rehydration salts.

Local Customs & Etiquette

• Dress: conservative clothing is recommended, especially for women—cover shoulders and knees in conservative or religious sites. In beach resorts, swimwear is fine at beaches/pools only.
• Religious respect: be respectful during Ramadan (avoid eating/drinking in public during daylight hours) and when visiting mosques (remove shoes, dress modestly; non-Muslim access varies).
• Greetings: polite, friendly interactions; ask before photographing locals, especially women.
• Tipping (baksheesh): customary for many services—small amounts expected for porters, guides, drivers, and restaurant staff.

Currency & Money

• Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP).
• Cash vs cards: cash is king outside major hotels, restaurants, and tourist sites. ATMs are widely available in cities; notify your bank.
• Exchange: exchange money at banks, hotels, or official exchange offices; keep smaller notes for tips and local purchases.

Transportation

• Airports: Cairo International (CAI) is the main hub; factor traffic when planning transfers.
• Trains: overnight sleepers connect Cairo–Aswan; newer high‑speed/air‑conditioned options exist but book in advance.
• Domestic flights: common for long distances (Cairo–Luxor/Aswan/Hurghada).
• Taxis & rideshares: use official white/yellow taxis with a meter or apps like Uber/Careem in major cities; agree price in advance if meter not used.
• Nile cruises & feluccas: popular—check vessel standards, itinerary, and inclusions.

Must‑Know Tips & Local Insights

• Guides & permits: for sites like the Pyramids and certain archaeological areas, hire licensed guides for richer context and easier navigation.
• Site hours & crowds: start early at major sites (Giza, Luxor) to avoid heat and crowds.
• Photography: some sites/museums restrict flash or tripods and may have separate fees for professional equipment.
• Bargaining: expected in souks and markets—start lower and negotiate politely.
• Connectivity: buy a local SIM (Vodafone/Orange/WE) for data and maps; Wi‑Fi is common in hotels.
• Language: Arabic is official; English is widely spoken in tourism sectors. Learning a few Arabic phrases is appreciated.
• Cultural highlights: combine iconic ancient sites (Giza, Luxor/Valley of the Kings, Abu Simbel) with Cairo’s museums, Alexandria’s coastline, and Red Sea resorts for diving/snorkeling.

Quick packing checklist

• Lightweight, breathable clothing that covers shoulders/knees, sunhat, sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, refillable water bottle, basic meds, photocopies of passport/visa, electrical plug adapter (Type C/F), small first‑aid kit.

Practical final advice

• Plan for flexible itineraries (traffic, site closures), book key tickets/guides in advance for peak seasons, and respect local norms to ensure a smooth, rewarding visit to Egypt.