Egypt Travel FAQ

Most nationalities need a visa to enter Egypt. Citizens of the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and EU countries can obtain a visa on arrival at Egyptian airports or apply for an e-Visa online before traveling. The cost is $25 USD for a single-entry visa valid for 30 days. Indian citizens and some other nationalities must apply for an e-Visa before travel. Always check the latest requirements for your specific nationality before booking.

Yes, Egypt is generally safe for tourists. The main tourist areas — Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, the Red Sea resorts, and the Nile cruise routes — are well-patrolled and accustomed to international visitors. As with any destination, use common sense: stay aware of your surroundings, avoid political demonstrations, and keep valuables secure. Egypt's tourism police are specifically dedicated to protecting visitors. We recommend traveling with a trusted local guide, which greatly enhances both safety and experience.

The official currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP or LE). As of 2026, 1 USD ≈ 50 EGP. We recommend bringing some US Dollars or Euros to exchange on arrival — you'll get better rates at exchange offices than banks. ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at hotels, larger restaurants, and shops, but carry cash for markets, small shops, taxis, and tips. Avoid exchanging money with street vendors.

Tipping (baksheesh) is an important part of Egyptian culture and a significant part of many workers' income. General guidelines: Restaurant waiters: 10-15% of the bill. Tour guides: $10-20 USD per day. Drivers: $5-10 USD per day. Hotel porters: 20-50 EGP per bag. Housekeeping: 50-100 EGP per day. Small services (bathroom attendants, helpful locals): 10-20 EGP. Always carry small bills in EGP for tipping.

Egypt is a conservative Muslim country, so modest dress is appreciated, especially outside resort areas. For women: Cover shoulders and knees in cities and when visiting mosques/churches. Loose, lightweight clothing in breathable fabrics works best. Carry a scarf for entering mosques. For men: Long pants are preferred over shorts in cities and religious sites. T-shirts are fine. At Red Sea resorts and hotel pools, normal swimwear is perfectly acceptable. Pack comfortable walking shoes, a sun hat, and good sunglasses.

The best time to visit Egypt is October to April when temperatures are pleasant (15-28°C / 60-82°F). Peak season is December to February — the weather is ideal but prices and crowds are at their highest. Shoulder season (March-May, September-November) offers a great balance of good weather and fewer tourists. Summer (June-August) is very hot, especially in Upper Egypt (Luxor, Aswan) where temperatures can exceed 45°C / 113°F, though it's the cheapest time to visit and Red Sea destinations remain comfortable.

Yes, solo travel in Egypt is absolutely possible and many travelers do it successfully every year. Having a trusted local guide makes a huge difference — they handle logistics, provide cultural context, and ensure a smooth experience. Solo female travelers should dress conservatively, be firm but polite when declining unwanted attention, and consider booking with a reputable tour company (like Atlas Handles!) for key excursions. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas. Many solo travelers find Egyptians incredibly hospitable and welcoming.

Egypt offers excellent value for money. Budget travelers can explore Egypt for $50-80 USD per day (hostels, street food, public transport). Mid-range travelers typically spend $120-200 USD per day (4-star hotels, guided tours, nice restaurants). Luxury travelers should budget $300-600+ USD per day (5-star hotels, private guides, luxury Nile cruises). A typical 7-day mid-range trip costs approximately $1,200-1,800 per person excluding international flights. Use our Budget Calculator for a personalized estimate based on your travel style.

No specific vaccinations are required for entry to Egypt, but the CDC recommends being up to date on routine vaccinations. Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines are recommended for most travelers. Hepatitis B is recommended if you might have intimate contact with locals or need medical treatment. Anti-malaria medication is not typically needed for standard tourist routes. Consult your doctor or a travel health clinic at least 4-6 weeks before your trip for personalized advice.

The official language is Arabic (specifically Egyptian Arabic, which differs from other Arabic dialects). In tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, English is widely spoken and understood. French is also spoken by some educated Egyptians. Learning a few Arabic phrases will endear you to locals: 'Shukran' (thank you), 'Ahlan' (hello), 'La' (no), 'Aiwa' (yes), and 'Min fadlak' (please). Your guide will handle all communication, making language barriers a non-issue.