Egypt Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors: 25 Things Nobody Tells You

Every first trip to Egypt has a few surprises. These are the 25 tips we share with almost every traveller, from practical details to the things that make the trip more enjoyable.

Planning

1. 1Book the big things early. Nile cruises, hot air balloons and winter hotels sell out, especially from December to February. See the best time to visit Egypt.
2. 2Give it enough days. Seven days covers the classics without rushing, and trying to see everything in four days means a lot of time on the road. See the 7-day itinerary.
3. 3Check your visa and passport validity before you fly. Rules and fees change, and airlines can refuse boarding if your paperwork is wrong. See the Egypt visa guide.
4. 4Use domestic flights between Cairo, Luxor and Aswan. A flight of about an hour can save you a whole day compared with long drives.
5. 5Arrange your airport pickup in advance so a driver is waiting when you land, which is the calmest way to start your trip: Cairo airport transfers.

Money and tipping

1. 1Carry small notes. Change is hard to find at busy sites, and you will need small amounts for tips and toilets.
2. 2Tipping is customary. Guides, drivers and restaurant staff all expect it. Ask your guide what is usual for your trip. See money and tipping.
3. 3Use ATMs in cities and airports, and keep some cash for markets and small shops where cards are not accepted.
4. 4Agree prices first for taxis and any service without a meter or a posted price. It avoids awkward conversations later.
5. 5Know what your tour includes. Ask about entrance fees, lunch, drinks and optional extras so there are no surprises on the day.

On the day

1. 1Start at opening time. Sites are cooler and quieter in the first hour, and photos are better in the soft morning light.
2. 2Wear a hat and comfortable shoes. There is more walking than most people expect, often on uneven ground.
3. 3Carry water and sunscreen every day. The sun is strong even in winter, and shade can be limited at big sites.
4. 4Bring a light layer. Winter mornings and evenings can be cool, especially in Cairo and on the Nile.
5. 5Expect sellers, and have a plan. A polite, firm "no thank you" works. A guide or driver makes this much easier.

Culture and etiquette

1. 1Dress modestly at mosques and in towns. Covering shoulders and knees is a good rule. See what to wear in Egypt.
2. 2Ask before photographing people. Most are happy to say yes if you ask first, and it is polite.
3. 3Accept the tea. Hospitality is a big part of Egyptian culture, and a shared cup of tea is often the best part of a shop visit.
4. 4Learn a few Arabic words. "Shukran" (thank you) and "salaam" (hello) always bring a smile.
5. 5Remove your shoes when entering mosques, and follow your guide's lead on where photos are allowed.

Food and health

1. 1Drink bottled or filtered water, and use it for brushing your teeth if you have a sensitive stomach.
2. 2Try the local food. Koshari, ful, ta'ameya and fresh juice are popular, inexpensive and delicious. Ask your guide for busy, clean places.
3. 3Pace yourself in the first days. Jet lag and heat add up, so plan a rest in the afternoon in hot months.

Safety and support

1. 1Travel with a trusted local team. A local guide and driver handle logistics and make the trip smoother. See is Egypt safe for tourists.
2. 2Save a WhatsApp contact for your operator so help is one message away if plans change or you need advice.

Want a deeper overview? Read our complete Egypt travel guide, or plan your trip with us.