Useful Travel tips to know before traveling to Egypt, shared by Travel Experts

Egypt is a fascinating country with a lot to offer for travelers. From the impressive Nile and glorious monuments to sand-covered tombs and Pharaonic temples, there is no shortage of things to do in Egypt. You’ll be captivated by the deserts, delta, and Valley of the Kings in Luxor, where Tutankhamun’s tomb was discovered.  Egypt is a gem for explorers, but be sure to keep these travel tips, coming straight from our travel experts who recently visited Egypt, in mind when planning your visit.

1. Travel with a local guide

Egypt is a vast country with an overwhelming amount of rich history and culture. Traveling with a local tour guide can greatly enhance your experience by providing invaluable insights and historical context. They can navigate you through crowded sites, share lesser-known facts, and ensure you don’t miss any hidden gems.

2. Which type of clothes to pack

You must pack light linen and cotton clothes for your trip to Egypt as the weather here remains majorly hot. Also, it is primarily an Islamic country, so it is important for women to wear a scarf and clothes that cover their shoulders and knees when visiting religious places.

3. Bargaining is the key

Whenever shopping for souvenirs, bargain! You’ll be quoted thrice the actual price as you visit local markets. Do not give in to the first price the vendor asks. Negotiate respectfully to come to a reasonable amount and then decide if it is worth buying.

4. Don’t go anywhere off the beaten path

You shouldn’t travel to remote places unless you are going with a guide or a local expert. Your safety is always of utmost priority.

5. Always carry a water bottle

Yes, staying hydrated is crucial, as Egypt has hot weather throughout the year, June-August being the hottest month. There is little or no rain, and even during winter, the days are warm. Your body sweats more to regulate its temperature, and this can lead to increased fluid loss. Ensure you are keeping hydrated to avoid fatigue.

6. Try local delicacies

Egyptian cuisine is one of the most flavorful cuisines. You must try Hamam mahshi, which is stuffed pigeon; Kofta (minced lamb or beef rolled and grilled together) and Kebab (lamb pieces grilled over coal). If you are a vegetarian, you can have a mouthwatering plate of koshari, a delightful dish made with rice, lentils, macaroni, and a tangy tomato sauce topped with crispy fried onions. Most restaurants do not serve vegetarian food, so give waiters a heads-up before you place the order. And don’t forget to taste sweet treats like baklava and basbousa while you’re there!

7. Don’t drink alcohol in the street

Make certain you are at a licensed bar, restaurant, nightclub, or private apartment and not drinking on the streets, as that is against the law and can lead to an arrest. Maintain decorum and respect social norms.

8. Protect yourself from the sun

The sun is really harsh in Egypt. You must ensure that you are wearing a hat during the noon and wear breathable clothes. Also, make sure you are applying sunscreen to protect your skin from the strong rays.

9. You can carry USD

USD is widely accepted in Egypt. Many hotels, restaurants, and local vendors take payments in USD. Credit cards are acceptable, but only in big places and not in local markets.

With these things in mind, you are going to have a smooth trip to Egypt. If you want any help with planning it, reach out to us, and our experts will be happy to help you.