23 Brilliant Tips for Visiting Egypt: What I Wish I Knew Before My First Trip

Planning a trip to Egypt? You’re in the right place. These are the tips for visiting Egypt I actually used—and the ones I wish I knew before I landed in Cairo.

Before my trip, I kept Googling things like “Is Egypt safe for Women?” and “What not to do in Egypt?”—but all I found were outdated forums and vague blog posts that didn’t actually help.

So I wrote the guide I wish I had.

This post is full of real, practical travel tips for Egypt—from how to get your visa, when to go, and what to pack, to things to know before visiting Egypt like how tipping works, what scams to avoid, how to dress respectfully, and how to stay safe as a woman.

Whether you’re planning 3 days in Cairo or a full 10-day Egypt itinerary with temples, feluccas, and Red Sea beaches—these 23 tips for traveling in Egypt will help you feel prepared, spend smart, and travel confidently. Especially if you’re a woman.

This blog post is all about tips for visiting Egypt 

Planning Tips for Visiting Egypt

1. Avoid the Summer Heat: Best Time to Visit Egypt

One of my top tips for visiting Egypt? Skip the summer if you can. I went in December and still felt like I was melting while exploring the temples in Luxor—Upper Egypt gets hot. In July, temperatures can soar past 40°C (104°F).

The best time to travel to Egypt is between October and April, when the weather is cooler and sightseeing is actually enjoyable.

If summer’s your only option, stick to the Red Sea coast. Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh are ideal for diving, relaxing on the beach, or staying in one of the many all-inclusive Red Sea resorts. They’re way more manageable heat-wise than cities like Luxor or Aswan.

Also, check if your trip overlaps with Ramadan or any major Egyptian holidays. It can affect museum hours, restaurant availability, and even how crowded tourist sites are. This is one of those key things to know before visiting Egypt—it can seriously shape your daily plans.

Read Next: Best (and Worst) Time to Visit Egypt in 2025

2. Research Egypt’s History Before You Go

Yes, we all know Egypt is absolutely incredible—but it’s even better when you have a sense of what you’re actually looking at. One of my top Egypt travel tips? Brush up on a little history before you go.

No, you don’t need to study like you’re back in school—just learn the basics. For me, knowing who Ramses II was before my day trip to Abu Simbel or understanding how the Pyramids of Giza were built made every site so much more meaningful.

I recommend listening to The History of Egypt Podcast, watching a few quick YouTube videos, or even rewatching Death on the Nile to get in the mood—especially if you’re planning an Aswan to Luxor Nile cruise. That’s exactly what I did, and I can’t recommend it enough.

3. Get Travel Insurance for Egypt

I’ll be honest—I learned this lesson the hard way: travel insurance in Egypt is non-negotiable. It’s not because the country isn’t safe (I felt perfectly fine exploring with my family), but because accidents can happen anywhere.

While visiting a beautiful mosque in Cairo, I slipped and fractured my foot. Definitely not how I imagined starting my dream Egypt trip. Thankfully, I had SafetyWing, and they covered my ER visit and took care of everything quickly and smoothly.

Whether you’re floating over Luxor in a hot air balloon or exploring the winding streets of Coptic Cairo, having reliable travel insurance is one of the smartest things you can do before visiting Egypt—it could save your trip.

👉 Check SafetyWing’s rates for Egypt

4. Book Your Egypt Accommodations Carefully

Here’s some honest travel advice for Egypt: star ratings can be pretty misleading. A “3-star” hotel might feel more like a 1-star, and even some luxury properties don’t always live up to the photos.

That’s why I always recommend checking recent reviews, browsing real guest photos, and paying close attention to cleanliness, safety, and location—especially if you’re traveling solo. It makes a big difference in how comfortable (and safe) you feel.

If you’re planning to splurge, book early. Luxury hotels near the Pyramids or the Nile fill up quickly, especially during peak season. And if you use the links in this post to book, it helps support my blog at no extra cost to you—thank you!

5. Get an eSIM for Egypt Before You Arrive

One thing I wish I knew before visiting Egypt? Wi-Fi is awful. It’s slow in hotels, unreliable in cafes, and basically nonexistent on Nile cruises. If you’re using Google Maps, translation apps, or even Uber in Egypt (yes, it exists!), you’ll need reliable mobile data.

One of my top tips for visiting Egypt is to sort out your SIM card in advance. You’ve got two options: buy a physical SIM at the airport (Vodafone and Orange both work well), or skip the hassle and use an eSIM instead.

I used Airalo and had strong signal everywhere—even deep in the desert and while cruising the Nile. Just download the app, pick an Egypt plan, install the eSIM, and activate it when you land. 👉 Grab your Egypt eSIM with Airalo

6. Get Your Egypt Visa in Advance

Most travelers—including those from the US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia—do need a visa to visit Egypt. You can get a Visa on Arrival for $25 USD (cash only), valid for 30 days.

Just head to the small bank counter near passport control when you land—they’ll hand you a visa sticker for your passport. I did this, and while it technically worked, it was super chaotic. No signs, no instructions, and a lot of confused travelers. I honestly don’t know how I would’ve handled it if I were flying solo for the first time.

That’s why one of my top travel tips for Egypt is to skip the stress and get your visa online in advance with iVisa. It’s fast, easy, and your Egypt e-visa shows up in your inbox before you even leave home.

👉 Check if you need a visa for Egypt here

Packing and Money Tips for Visiting Egypt

7. Dress Respectfully (and Comfortably!)

One of the most important tips for visiting Egypt as a woman? Dress respectfully. Egypt is a conservative country, and what you wear can affect how locals treat you—especially outside resort areas.

You don’t need a hijab, but it’s best to cover your shoulders, chest, and knees. I always carried a lightweight scarf in my daypack to throw on at temples, Egypt mosques, or markets. It came in handy more than once!

In beach towns like Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh, it’s much more relaxed. You can absolutely wear bikinis, shorts, and tank tops at resorts or on a Nile cruise—just be sure to cover up when heading off-site.

Packing Tip: Expect tons of walking in the sun. Bring breathable clothing, comfy shoes (I lived in my Tevas), a wide-brim hat, and high-SPF sunscreen.

8. Don’t Forget an Electrical Adapter

Egypt uses Type C and F outlets (those round two-prong plugs you’ll find across most of Europe) and runs on 220V. If you’re coming from North America or parts of Asia, you’ll definitely need a universal travel adapter.

Look for one with surge protection and built-in USB ports—many hotels only have a single outlet, and you’ll want to charge more than one device at a time.

🔋 Extra Tip: Bring a portable power bank. Between Google Maps, translation apps, and e-tickets, your phone battery won’t last long on full sightseeing days.

9. Carry Cash (and Small Change!)

During your trip, don’t rely on your credit card—Egypt is still a cash-based country, especially when it comes to tipping, shopping in Egypt, and short taxi or tuk-tuk rides.

The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP), and as of August 2025, $1 USD ≈ 48.34 EGP. ATMs are easy to find in cities, but small shops and even some hotels won’t accept cards—so cash really is king.

Here are my top money tips for visiting Egypt:

• Bring two debit or credit cards, in case one fails
• Withdraw cash at airport or hotel ATMs (the daily limit is usually 3,000 EGP)
• Use Revolut (no foreign fees), XE (to check exchange rates), and Tricount (for group expenses)
• Always carry small bills—you’ll need them for tips, snacks, bathrooms, and bargaining
• Bring some USD—some hotels and tours still prefer to be paid in dollars

🎓 Got a student ID—even an old or expired one? Bring it! Many top attractions, like Karnak Temple and the Grand Egyptian Museum, offer student discounts. Always worth a try!

10. Always Pack Tissues and Hand Sanitizer

Here’s one of the most underrated tips for visiting Egypt: carry tissues and hand sanitizer everywhere. Many public bathrooms—especially at temples, markets, and gas stations—don’t have toilet paper or soap, and some charge a 5 EGP entry fee.

I kept a small pack of tissues, sanitizer, and a few coins in my day bag at all times. Most restrooms are Western-style, but squat toilets do pop up, and you’re often expected to toss used paper into a bin, not the toilet.

Read Next: How to Stop Overpacking: 13 Tips That Actually Work

11. Understand Tipping in Egypt

One thing I really wish I knew before visiting Egypt? You’ll need to tip a lot. Tipping—called baksheesh—is a normal part of everyday life in Egypt. It’s not a scam; it’s expected.

Even small favors, like handing you a tissue or pointing you in the right direction, can come with an expectation of a tip. Coming from Spain—where tipping isn’t really a thing—I found it surprising how frequent (and awkward) it felt at first.

Be ready to tip in situations like:

• A mosque attendant watching your shoes
• A porter carrying your bag
• Someone taking your photo at a temple
• A restroom worker offering soap or paper
• A camel guy letting you pose—even if you don’t ride

👉 For more details on who to tip and how much, check out my full guide: Tipping in Egypt

Cultural & Safety Tips for Visiting Egypt

12. Expect Pushy Vendors and Tourist Scams

Scams are one of the top reasons not to visit Egypt—at least if you’re not prepared. I had done my research and thought I was ready, but I was still shocked by how aggressive things got, especially at the Pyramids of Giza, Luxor Temple, and Khan el-Khalili Bazaar.

In just one afternoon, I was followed for blocks, offered a fake “free” scarf, asked how many camels my dad would trade for me, and told—again—that I looked like Shakira. I really don’t. It was… a lot.

Here are some common Egypt tourist scams to watch for:

• Fake guards or guides offering “free” help, then demanding a tip
• “It’s closed today!” lies to reroute you to a shop
• “Free” photos or souvenirs—then pressure to pay
• Taxi scams with “broken meters” or surprise fees mid-ride
• Helpful strangers who offer directions or assistance, then ask for money

One of my top Egypt travel tips? Say la, shukran (no, thank you), avoid eye contact, and don’t engage—no matter how friendly someone seems. And don’t accept anything unless you’re prepared to pay for it.

If you’re shopping, you have to haggle—or you’ll end up paying double or triple what locals pay. Need help with bargaining? I’ve got a full haggling guide with real scripts that actually work.

13. Be Mindful Around Animals in Egypt

One of the most important tips for visiting Egypt—especially if you’re an animal lover—is to prepare yourself for how animals are treated in some areas.

I did ride a camel at the Pyramids, but only after checking that it looked healthy, well-fed, and rested. Sadly, not every animal is as lucky. The carriage horses outside Edfu Temple were tough to see—many appeared underweight, overheated, and left without shade or water while waiting for passengers.

You’ll also notice stray cats and dogs in tourist areas, hotels, markets, and even inside temple complexes. Some are friendly and clearly cared for by locals, while others are sick, injured, or limping. It can be heartbreaking, so it’s worth thinking ahead about how you’ll handle these encounters.

14. Eat Street Food in Egypt Safely

Trying Egyptian street food is hands down one of the best things to do in Egypt—but it’s also where many travelers get sick. Dishes like koshari, taameya, and shawarma are delicious, but you’ve got to be smart about where you eat.

Here are my top Egypt travel tips for eating safely:

• Choose food that’s hot and freshly made
• Stick to stalls or shops busy with locals
• Avoid anything sitting out too long
• Skip raw salads and unpeeled fruit
• Bring Imodium and electrolytes—just in case

15. Learn a Few Basic Arabic Phrases

One of my top tips for visiting Egypt is to learn a few basic Arabic phrases. Locals really appreciate the effort—even if your accent isn’t perfect.

Words like “salaam alaikum” (hello) and “la shukran” (no, thank you) helped me so much in markets, taxis, and crowded tourist areas. In remote places like Siwa Oasis, where English isn’t widely spoken, they’re even more useful.

Bonus Tip: Always carry your hotel’s business card in Arabic. It makes getting back safely with a taxi so much easier.

16. Know the Photography Rules

Egypt is absolutely stunning, and I’m sure you’ll want to take a million photos—but there are a few important rules to keep in mind. These tips for traveling in Egypt will help you avoid fines or awkward situations:

• Buy a photo pass at major temples and tombs if required. In 2025, I had no issues using my phone, but DSLRs and cameras often need a separate permit.
• Tripods and drones? Leave them at home. They’re banned at most archaeological sites unless you have official written permission (which is nearly impossible to get as a tourist).
• Never photograph military checkpoints, guards, or police. It’s illegal and could land you in serious trouble.
• Ask before photographing people, especially women. It’s just respectful, and many locals prefer not to be photographed by strangers.
• Check the signage inside tombs. Some ban all photography—even if you’ve bought a pass.

You’ll still get plenty of amazing shots—especially at golden hour in Luxor Temple or sunrise on the Nile. And if you’re traveling solo, check out my tips for taking your own travel photos without relying on strangers.

Sightseeing Tips for Visiting Egypt

17. Visit the Pyramids Early

If the Pyramids are on your bucket list (and they should be!), get there right when the gates open—usually around 8:00 AM. Early mornings mean fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and way less hassle from vendors.

One of my top tips for visiting Egypt? Book a licensed guide ahead of time. Mine explained the history in such a fun and engaging way, helped me avoid common scams, and even pointed out the best photo spots I would’ve missed.

And honestly, this early wake-up call is worth it for other iconic attractions in Egypt too—Abu Simbel, Karnak Temple, and even hot air ballooning in Luxor are all better before the crowds roll in.

Read Next: 13 Must-Know Tips Before Visiting the Pyramids of Giza

18. Choose the Best Temples to Visit in Egypt

Here’s one of the most practical things to know before visiting Egypt: you don’t need to see every single temple. Temple burnout is real. After the fourth or fifth one, even the most incredible ruins can start to blur together.

Here are the ones I personally think are most worth it:

• Abu Simbel – Absolutely worth the long drive. Mind-blowing.
• Karnak Temple – Massive, iconic, and super photogenic.
• Philae Temple – Peaceful with a scenic boat ride.
• Valley of the Kings – Don’t miss Seti I and Tutankhamun.

Want more help choosing? Check out my Famous Temples in Egypt guide.

19. Take a Nile River Cruise in Egypt

Not sure what to do in Egypt besides pyramids and temples? One of my top Egypt travel tips is to take a Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor.

Even as someone who’s not a cruise person, I found it 100% worth it. It’s incredibly relaxing, super scenic, and takes you to major sites like Karnak, Kom Ombo, Edfu, and Philae Temple—all without the stress of planning each leg on your own.

I cruised with Sonesta Star Goddess and genuinely loved the experience. The rooms were spacious, the food was excellent, and everything ran like clockwork. You can read my complete Nile cruise review with tips to learn what to expect, how to pick the right boat, and whether it’s worth the splurge.

🕒 Short on time? Try a sunset felucca ride in Luxor or a dinner cruise in Cairo for a quick (but still magical) experience.

20. Relax at Egypt’s Stunning Beaches

Most travelers—including me—come to Egypt for the temples and tombs. But one of my best tips for traveling in Egypt? Make time for the Red Sea.

The beaches in Egypt are seriously underrated. Places like Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, and Dahab offer crystal-clear water, golden sand, and tons of fun activities—at a fraction of what you’d pay in Europe.

I spent a few days in Hurghada and it was the perfect way to recharge after temple-hopping in Luxor. I took a boat trip to Giftun Island, snorkeled over colorful coral reefs, and even went horseback riding in the sea. So much fun!

Read Next: 17 Beach Bag Essentials You’ll Actually Use

Transport Tips for Visiting Egypt

21. Hire a Local Guide in Egypt

I love planning my own trips and traveling independently—but honestly? One of my top Egypt travel tips is to hire a licensed local guide.

They’ll bring ancient sites to life in ways Google never could—plus, they handle logistics like entrance fees, tipping, transport, and even where to find the cleanest bathrooms (which, trust me, matters in Egypt!).

I booked my full 10-day Egypt itinerary with Medjet Travel and can’t recommend them enough. Everything was customized to what I wanted to see, super flexible, and totally stress-free. If you want a smoother, more informed trip, a guide makes a huge difference.

22. Use Trains or Flights for Long Distances

Visiting Egypt without a guide is possible, especially if you’re trying to stick to a budget—but transportation can be a challenge. These Egypt travel tips will help you get around more easily.

• Sleeper Trains – Best for Cairo to Aswan or Luxor. Comfortable and saves you a night’s hotel.
• EgyptAir Domestic Flights – Fast and affordable for long distances like Cairo to Luxor or Cairo to Hurghada.
• GoBus – Reliable, air-conditioned coaches that run across major cities. Easy to book online.
• Private Drivers – Best for reaching remote temples like Dendera or Abydos. Book through 12Go Asia or GetYourGuide.
• Uber in Egypt – Available in Cairo and Alexandria. It’s safer, more convenient, and eliminates haggling. Read my Uber in Egypt guide for how it works.

One thing I wouldn’t recommend? Local microbuses. They’re cheap but chaotic, packed, and super confusing if you don’t speak Arabic. Unless you’ve traveled this way before, skip them.

23. Avoid Driving in Egypt

This is one of those things to know before visiting Egypt that I wish someone had told me: don’t rent a car unless you absolutely have to.

Driving in Egypt—especially in Cairo—is chaotic. There are no real lanes, road signs are mostly in Arabic, and traffic rules are more like suggestions. It’s stressful, unpredictable, and just not worth it.

Use Uber for city rides, take trains or GoBus between cities, and book private drivers for day trips. It’s easier, safer, and way less exhausting.

Still want to drive? Stick to quieter areas like the Red Sea coast or Sinai, and use DiscoverCars to compare rentals, add insurance, and check real reviews. Just don’t forget your international driving permit.

What Not to Do in Egypt: Tourist Mistakes to Avoid

When planning a trip to Egypt, it’s not just about what to do—it’s also about what not to do. These practical travel tips for Egypt will help you avoid common tourist mistakes, show respect for local culture, and make your trip smoother from day one.

• Skip public displays of affection – Kissing, hugging, or even holding hands (especially outside tourist areas) can be seen as inappropriate or disrespectful.
• Don’t drink alcohol in public – Drinking on the street or in public spaces is illegal in Egypt. If you want a glass of wine or a cold beer, stick to licensed restaurants, bars, or hotels.
• Avoid drinking tap water – It’s not safe for drinking or even brushing your teeth. I always bring a LifeStraw filtered bottle so I can refill safely and cut down on plastic.
• Leave the drone at home – Drones are banned in Egypt unless you’ve got special government permission (which is nearly impossible to get). Many travelers have them confiscated at the airport, so it’s not worth the risk.
• Don’t expect normal hours on Fridays – Friday is the weekly holy day in Egypt, so some shops and businesses open late or close completely—especially outside major tourist areas.

Even small mistakes can lead to awkward moments or fines. Knowing what not to do in Egypt is one of the best ways to travel more confidently, respectfully, and stress-free.

Is Egypt Safe to Visit? My Top Safety Tips

One of the questions I get asked constantly is: “Is Egypt safe to visit in 2025?” Short answer: yes—for most tourists, including Americans. But like anywhere, you’ll need to take a few smart precaution s.

Popular places to visit in Egypt like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan are generally safe and well-patrolled. Violent crime is rare. The real issues are scams, aggressive vendors, and cultural differences—which can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re a woman or traveling solo.

I didn’t travel solo on this trip, and honestly? I wouldn’t recommend Egypt as your first solo adventure. It’s not on my best solo female travel destinations list because it’s intense to navigate alone. But with a trusted local guide, I felt safe and totally at ease the entire time.

Top Safety Tips for Visiting Egypt:

• Dress modestly, especially in cities and religious sites
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in quieter areas
• Use an eSIM like Airalo to stay connected and navigate safely
• Book tours and transport in advance from trusted companies

👍 Curious what it’s really like for solo women? Read my guide: Solo Female Travel in Egypt: 10 Safety Tips for 2025

FAQs: Egypt Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Now that I’ve shared my top tips for visiting Egypt, let’s quickly go over some of the most common questions travelers ask before heading to this fascinating country.

Final Thoughts: My Top Tips for Visiting Egypt

And that’s a wrap—my top 25 practical tips for visiting Egypt! I hope this guide helps you feel more prepared, less overwhelmed, and genuinely excited for the trip ahead.

Still planning your itinerary? Don’t miss my guides to the best things to do in Aswan, top experiences in Luxor, and what to do in Hurghada.

Got any top travel tips for Egypt? Share them in the comments—let’s help each other travel smarter!

Other Egypt Travel Guides You Might Enjoy:

• 10 Unique Things to Do in Cairo (Beyond the Pyramids!)
• Is Egypt Worth Visiting? Here’s What No One Tells You
• Why the Temple of Kom Ombo Will Blow Your Mind
• Step Inside the Colorful Charm of the Nubian Village in Aswan
• Inside the Valley of the Kings: What It’s Really Like to Explore the Tombs in Luxor

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