Essential things to know before traveling to Egypt, Traveling tips, Building visits guide, Online vacation advice

Essential Things to Know Before Traveling to Egypt

27 Apr 2023

Egypt is a fascinating country with a rich history and culture that attracts millions of visitors every year. However, before you travel to Egypt ad start booking your Egypt tours, there are some essential things you should know to make your trip more enjoyable and safe.

Get your visa in advance

If you’re planning to travel to Egypt, you’ll need a visa. You can get a renewable single-entry tourist visa on arrival for USD$25, valid for 30 days. However, it’s best to get your visa in advance to avoid any issues at the airport.

Plan your trip for the best time to visit

Egypt has a dry and hot climate dominated by the desert. The best time to visit Egypt is from October to April when the weather is cooler. You can also avoid crowds by traveling during the off-season.

Learn some Arabic phrases

Learning some Arabic phrases can help you communicate with locals and avoid misunderstandings while traveling in Egypt1. You can learn basic phrases like “hello,” “thank you,” “how much,” and “where is.”

Haggling

Haggling is a common practice in Egypt and is expected in many situations. By bargaining with vendors and shopkeepers, you can often get better deals and save money on souvenirs and other items.

Choose your accommodations wisely

Choosing your accommodations wisely can make a big difference in your trip to Egypt. You can choose budget-friendly hotels or hostels instead of luxury hotels. You can also use websites like Airbnb or Couchsurfing to find affordable accommodations.

Be aware of cultural differences

Egypt has a rich history and culture that may be different from what you’re used to. It’s important to be aware of cultural differences and respect local customs. For example, it’s important to dress modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites.

Be prepared for the heat

Egypt can be very hot, especially during the summer months. It’s important to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen while traveling in Egypt. You should also avoid spending too much time outdoors during the hottest parts of the day.

Be respectful of local customs

Egyptians are generally friendly and welcoming people, but it’s important to be respectful of local customs. For example, it’s considered impolite to take photos of people without their permission.

Be aware of scams

Scams are common in Egypt, especially around tourist areas. Be wary of anyone who approaches you offering tours or services that seem too good to be true.

Dress appropriately

Egypt is a conservative country, so it’s important to dress appropriately when visiting public places. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, while men should avoid wearing shorts.

Don’t drink tap water

Tap water in Egypt is not safe for drinking. Make sure you only drink bottled water or water that has been boiled or treated with purification tablets.

Be careful crossing the street

Traffic in Egypt can be chaotic, so it’s important to be careful when crossing the street. Look both ways before crossing and try to cross at designated crosswalks.

Visit other sites besides the Pyramids

While the Pyramids are undoubtedly one of Egypt’s most famous attractions, there are many other sites worth visiting as well. Some other popular destinations include Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel, and Alexandria.

Use reputable tour operators

Using reputable tour operators can help ensure that your trip goes smoothly and safely. Look for tour operators that have good reviews online or ask for recommendations from friends who have traveled to Egypt before.

Be prepared for security checks

Security checks are common in Egypt, especially at tourist sites. Be prepared to go through metal detectors and have your bags searched before entering certain areas.

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