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Before traveling to any new location, make sure to do your research to be prepared for your trip. The below list of 11 tips for your first visit to Egypt is a great start.

1. CARRY CASH

Major credit and debit cards are accepted in larger restaurants, shops, hotels, etc. however, a majority of your transactions will be in cash such as tour guides, drivers, markets, and street food. Therefore, it is recommended to carry cash at all times with you. There are many ATMs in the larger cities, however, they will become uncommon or non-existent in the more rural areas.

2. TIP

Tipping (baksheesh) is expected throughout Egypt for services. Common services to tip include restaurants, drivers, and tour guides. Unique services include someone taking a photo of you or with their camel, (you will come across this in the temples, tombs, and pyramids), if someone carries your bag in a hotel or in the airport or bathroom attendants. Make sure to always have small denominations for this reason. About 10-15% of the price you paid is reasonable, adjusting based on the quality of service, as well as about 5-20 EGP for smaller services.

3. DO YOUR RESEARCH ON PRICES

Scams and hassling are common in Egypt. The country relies heavily on tourism and some locals need these tips and bribes to make a living. If you stand out as a tourist, you will be a target. In order to be best prepared, know what you should expect to pay for certain services and understand nothing is free (not even someone taking your photo). Be polite but firm with your declines, and ignore them if necessary.

4. PREPARE FOR ADDITIONAL FEES

Be aware that many things have an additional fee. For example, entrance tickets into Museums or Temples have a regular ticket price and may have additional fees in order to see a mummy exhibit or a tomb. When discussing a price with a taxi driver or a tour guide, make sure you set the price upfront and mention everything you want it to include. There are many times when they will request additional fees, but if you set the price upfront this will avoid issues.

5. NEGOTIATE

Negotiating is acceptable and expected in Egypt. Whether you are at a market looking to buy something or you are grabbing a taxi, know that you can and should negotiate the price. 

6. GET A UNIVERSAL ADAPTER

A universal adaptor is helpful on all international travels and ensures you will be able to plug in your devices at all times. 

7. GET AN INTERNATIONAL PHONE PLAN OR LOCAL SIM CARD

Wi-Fi in Egypt is not reliable, and if you do not have an international phone plan then I recommend getting a SIM card. You can get one right when you land in the airport. In order to use Uber or Maps while exploring Egypt, this will be beneficial. 

8. LEARN A FEW PHRASES IN ARABIC

Many locals know some level of English, however, it is always nice to learn a few common phrases in the local language. This aids in better communication throughout your trip, as well as a way to create connections with the locals.

9. DRESS TO YOUR COMFORT LEVEL  

When traveling in Egypt, the bottom line is to dress to your comfort level. You will see most locals dressing conservatively. Therefore, if you do not want to stand out as much and draw more attention, then you probably will want to wear clothes that are more in line with conservative attire. I think of it as respectful to dress similar to the local culture and it makes me feel more comfortable to do so.

10. GET TOUR GUIDES

Since there is so much history in Egypt, get a tour guide in order to get a good sense of understanding about this spectacular place. The tour guides are knowledgeable and will elevate your experience. 

11. PLAN YOUR TRIP WELL

In order to see various parts of Egypt, there will be a lot of logistics of travel to navigate. If you do not have unlimited time, I recommend planning out as much as you can before you go on your trip to make sure everything runs smoothly. Check out all of my Egypt resources to help plan your trip.

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