Egypt is not a destination for the timid — but it is absolutely a destination for the curious, the adventurous, and the open-hearted. The country can feel overwhelming at first: the traffic, the noise, the sheer density of history at every turn. But with the right preparation and the right mindset, Egypt reveals itself as one of the most rewarding and unforgettable travel experiences on earth.
We have spent years preparing travelers for their Egyptian adventures. These are the tips we give every single client before they depart — the advice that makes the difference between a stressful trip and the journey of a lifetime.
Before You Leave Home
Visas and Entry Requirements
Most nationalities can obtain an Egyptian visa on arrival at major international airports, including Cairo International Airport. The process is straightforward: pay the visa fee (currently $25 USD for most nationalities), fill out the arrival form, and collect your visa stamp before proceeding to immigration.
Alternatively, Egypt offers an e-visa system that allows you to apply online before your trip. We recommend the e-visa for travelers who prefer to have everything sorted before departure — it takes 3–5 business days to process and eliminates any uncertainty at the airport.
Health and Vaccinations
- No mandatory vaccinations are required for Egypt
- Recommended: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and standard travel vaccinations
- Bring a good sunscreen (SPF 50+) — the Egyptian sun is intense
- Pack stomach medicine — a change in diet and water occasionally causes issues
- Drink only bottled water throughout your trip
What to Pack
- Lightweight, breathable clothing — Egypt is almost always warm
- A light jacket or shawl for cool evenings and air-conditioned interiors
- Modest clothing for visiting mosques and religious sites (covered shoulders and knees)
- Comfortable walking shoes — the ancient sites involve significant walking on uneven ground
- A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for outdoor sightseeing
Money and Budgeting
Currency and Cash
Egypt’s currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). While credit cards are accepted at hotels and larger restaurants, cash is king throughout much of Egypt — particularly at markets, smaller restaurants, and admission desks at ancient sites. ATMs are widely available in Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan, and they generally work well with international cards.
Tipping Culture
Tipping — or baksheesh — is an important part of Egyptian culture and the local economy. Tipping is expected in most service contexts: at restaurants (10–15% of the bill), for hotel porters, for tour guides, and for anyone who provides a service or helps you during your visit. Small amounts go a long way.
Getting Around Egypt
Between Cities
For most travelers, the best way to move between Egypt’s main destinations is by domestic flight or overnight train. The routes Cairo to Luxor, Cairo to Aswan, and Luxor to Aswan are all well-served by EgyptAir and several budget carriers. A Nile cruise, typically running from Luxor to Aswan over 4–7 nights, is another wonderful way to travel between cities.
Within Cities
- Cairo: Use ride-hailing apps (Uber and Careem both operate) for convenience and safety
- Luxor: Taxis and horse-drawn carriages for short distances
- Aswan: Feluccas (traditional Nile sailboats) for the most atmospheric local experience
Cultural Do’s and Don’ts
Do
- Greet Egyptians warmly — a simple “As-salamu alaykum” is always appreciated
- Remove your shoes when entering mosques
- Ask permission before photographing local people
- Accept hospitality graciously — Egyptians are extraordinarily generous hosts
- Bargain respectfully at markets — it is expected and part of the culture
Don’t
- Display excessive affection in public — Egypt is a conservative country
- Photograph military installations or government buildings
- Rush — Egypt rewards patience above almost everything else
Safety in Egypt
Egypt is generally a safe destination for tourists, and millions of visitors travel there without incident every year. The Egyptian government and tourism authorities take visitor safety seriously, and tourist sites are well-policed and monitored. Standard travel precautions apply: keep your valuables secure, be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas, and trust your instincts if a situation feels uncomfortable.
Why Travel with Marvel Egypt Tours
The difference between traveling in Egypt with a good tour operator and traveling without one is, quite simply, the difference between seeing Egypt and experiencing it. Our team at Marvel Egypt Tours are not just guides — we are storytellers, problem-solvers, and passionate advocates for this extraordinary country.
We handle every logistical detail of your trip, from visa assistance and airport transfers to private guided tours of the ancient sites with expert Egyptologist guides who have devoted their lives to understanding and sharing this history. We know the best local restaurants, the right times to visit each site, and the hidden experiences that transform a good trip into an unforgettable one.
Egypt is waiting. Let us show it to you the right way. Contact Marvel Egypt Tours today at booking@marvelegypttours.com or call +20 11 52324337.
