Essential Tips for Your Visit to Egypt: What Travel Agents Don’t Tell You

Egypt is a fascinating destination that should be at the top of your travel list. With over 7,000 years of history, stunning beaches on the Red Sea and Mediterranean, exciting cultural events, concerts, sports, and global conferences, Egypt offers something for everyone.

Home to over one-third of the world’s monuments, Egypt also boasts the world’s largest museum, the Grand Egyptian Museum.

Whether it’s exploring ancient wonders, enjoying vibrant city life, or relaxing in luxurious coastal resorts, Egypt is a destination like no other. To ensure your trip is unforgettable, here are some useful tips to know before you go:

1. Safety in Egypt

Egypt is 100% safe for visitors, with no conflicts affecting its tourist destinations. You can feel secure while exploring the country.

2. Booking Your Trip

For a smooth experience, book your trip through a local travel agency or one based in Egypt. This ensures your itinerary is well-organized and stress-free.

3. Entry Visa

You’ll need a visa to enter Egypt. Some travelers can get a visa upon arrival at the airport, while others need to obtain one in advance. Check your eligibility beforehand.

4. Luggage Checks

Occasionally, there might be random luggage checks at the airport. Don’t worry—authorities are polite and professional.

5. Interactions with Authorities

Once you leave the airport, you won’t face any additional checks. If someone does approach you inappropriately, report the incident to the Egyptian Tourist Authority hotline at 126. Tipping police officers is not allowed, and recording incidents can be helpful.

6. Transportation

If transportation isn’t pre-arranged, agree on the fare before taking a taxi or limousine. Alternatively, use ride-hailing apps like Uber for convenience and transparency.

7. Tipping Drivers

It’s customary to tip drivers. Around 100 EGP (roughly $2 USD) is appropriate. It’s better to tip in Egyptian pounds as smaller foreign currency notes are not widely accepted.

8. Hotel Tips

After check-in, tipping the luggage porter 50-100 EGP (1-2 USD) is appreciated. Again, tipping in Egyptian pounds is preferred.

9. During City Tours

Choose a qualified tour guide who provides detailed insights and allows time for photos. Tipping your guide and driver is customary and appreciated.

10. Dealing with Tour Guides

Some guides might discourage you from exploring on your own, but Egypt is very safe. You’re free to visit restaurants, coffee shops, and markets at your leisure. Avoid engaging in personal or political discussions with guides if you’re uncomfortable. Egypt Concierge ensures no client is subjected to inappropriate practices.

11. Shopping in Egypt

Egypt offers both global brands at competitive prices and unique souvenirs. When shopping, negotiate prices—start by offering 50% of the initial quote. If the seller declines, walk away—they’ll likely agree to your offer.

Egypt Concierge does not allow guides to earn commissions, ensuring fair pricing for clients.

12. Friendly Locals

Egyptians are known for their warmth and generosity. Accepting invitations for photos or casual interactions is fine, but be cautious of unsolicited offers for guidance, as some may expect payment later.

13. Dining in Egypt

Egypt has food options for every budget. Don’t miss local dishes like falafel, koshary, hawawshi, and desserts like Om Ali and rice pudding. Try fresh sugarcane juice too! Popular coffee shop chains include Beano’s Cafe, Cilantro, and Paul. Tipping in restaurants is typically 10% of the bill.

14. Fashion and Clothing

Egypt is famous for its high-quality cotton and local fashion brands like Concrete and Mobaco. Tipping store staff 50 EGP (about $1) for their assistance is appreciated. Unlike souvenir shops, fashion stores don’t offer commissions to guides.

15. Hotel Tipping Etiquette

At restaurants, tipping 50 EGP is standard. For a more straightforward approach, you can leave a tip at the reception (around $20 USD per person for your stay). Tipping is a kind gesture, not an obligation.

Final Note

Egypt is a destination full of history, culture, and unforgettable experiences. Following these tips will ensure you have a hassle-free and enjoyable trip.

Plan your trip with Egypt Concierge today!
Email: info@egyptconcierge.org
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