Egypt travel tips for first-timers: What to know

Egypt hits hard and fast. The Pyramids? Obviously iconic. But there’s more here than ancient stones and camel selfies. Get ready for backstreet koshary joints that serve up chaos and carbs in the best way, Nile-side sunsets in Aswan, and markets where you’ll haggle like your budget depends on it (because it might). Cairo’s madness is magnetic – loud, dusty, alive – while a felucca ride in Luxor or a lazy afternoon in Siwa slows things right down. To help you skip the scams, ride local transport like a pro, and avoid the heatstroke rookie errors, these Egypt travel tips will keep you smart and streetwise.

When is the best time to visit Egypt?

The best time to visit Egypt depends on your heat tolerance, crowd aversion, and how well you function under the midday sun. Egypt’s got sun for days—no typhoons or tropical downpours to dodge – but timing still matters. From Sahara scorchers to chilly desert nights, the weather plays a big role in how much fun you’ll have at the pyramids or floating on the Nile.

• Spring (March to May) is prime time. The heat hasn’t hit full blast, and sites like Karnak and Abu Simbel are bearable without sweat dripping into your eyes. It’s also the season when the Nile breeze actually feels like a breeze, not a hairdryer. You’ll deal with more tourists and some sandstorms blowing in from the Sahara, but overall, it’s a sweet spot.
• Autumn (October to early December) is your next best bet. The crowds ease up a little after summer, and the worst of the heat fades. It's still warm, but in a way that lets you linger at ancient temples without hallucinating. Nile cruises run full swing, Red Sea resorts are buzzing, and Cairo's outdoor cafés come back to life.
• Summer (June to September) is brutal. Daytime temps often hit 113°F (45°C), especially in Luxor and Aswan. You’ll score deals, but sightseeing feels like survival. Start early and find shade fast.
• Winter (late December to February) is cooler, especially up north. Cairo gets chilly, and Alexandria sees some rain, but the south stays dry and pleasant. Perfect for quieter temple visits and desert escapes.

Is Egypt expensive?

Egypt isn’t dirt cheap, but it can be surprisingly good value – especially if you skip the five-star cruise buffets and eat where locals actually eat. Big-ticket sights like the Pyramids, Luxor temples, and Abu Simbel come with entry fees, but overall, Egypt’s still easier on the wallet than many places.

The Pyramids cost around 540 EGP (roughly $11) for a general ticket, with extras for going inside. Sites like Karnak or Philae hover in the same range. A Nile cruise can eat into your budget fast, but it bundles food, transport, and sightseeing in one go.

• Shoestring travelers can get by on $30-50 a day with hostel stays, street food (hello, koshary and taameya), and public transport like microbuses or the Cairo metro. Just be ready to bargain – hard.
• Mid-range budgets ($70-100/day) unlock better hotels, air-conditioned trains, and guided tours without the frills. You’ll have more control and less hassle, especially outside major cities.
• If you’ve got money to burn, Egypt delivers. There are luxury Nile cruises with spas, private hot-air balloon rides over the Valley of the Kings, and beach resorts in Sharm el-Sheik that come with their own dive centers and private beaches.

Is Egypt safe for travelers?

For most visitors, yes – Egypt is safe, especially in tourist-heavy zones like Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and the Red Sea coast. But that doesn’t mean risk-free. Egypt has seen attacks targeting tourists in the past decade, including incidents near archaeological sites and in public spaces. The government has since ramped up security around major landmarks, and you’ll see checkpoints, bag scans, and plenty of uniformed guards. It can feel overbearing, but it’s also reassuring.

Crime and personal safety

Petty theft and scams are more likely than violent crime. Cairo’s chaos creates ideal conditions for pickpockets, especially in markets, train stations, and outside the pyramids. Touts can be relentless and sometimes deceptive – treat every “official guide” or “gift” offer with suspicion.

Solo female travelers can expect stares and occasional harassment. It’s not dangerous, but it is persistent. Dressing conservatively and walking with purpose helps.

Tips to stay safe:

• Keep your phone and wallet secure in crowded spots.
• Avoid quiet alleys or poorly lit streets at night.
• Use Uber or Bolt instead of street taxis.
• Ignore pushy sellers and walk away confidently.

Terrorism and regional tension

The risk of terrorism exists, particularly in North Sinai, which most governments advise avoiding. Tourist sites in mainland Egypt are heavily guarded, but incidents have occurred, including near the Giza Plateau and in South Sinai. Stay updated via travel advisories.

Laws and local customs

Egypt is conservative. A few ground rules:

• No drugs – penalties are severe.
• Keep public affection to a minimum.
• Be respectful during Ramadan – eat and drink privately.
• LGBTQ+ travelers should be discreet. Same-sex relationships exist but aren’t openly accepted.
• Criticizing the government or military is a bad idea – don’t do it, even online.

Do you need a visa for Egypt?

Probably. Unless you’re from a short list of visa-exempt countries, you’ll need one to enter Egypt. The good news? It’s easy to get – either at the airport or online before you go.

Visa on arrival or e-visa?

Most travelers – including citizens of the US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand – can get a visa on arrival at major airports like Cairo, Luxor, and Hurghada. It costs $25 USD (cash only, preferably crisp bills) and is valid for 30 days.

If you’d rather skip the airport paperwork, apply in advance at visa2egypt.gov.eg. It’s the official site, and approval usually takes a few days. Print a copy just in case – yes, even if it’s digital.

Multi-entry and long stays

Planning to leave and come back? You’ll need a multiple-entry visa, which costs $60 USD and can be harder to get on arrival. If you’re staying longer than 30 days, you can extend your visa at the Mogamma building in Cairo or similar offices elsewhere. Expect bureaucracy – and bring patience.

Overstaying?

Don’t. Fines apply (typically around 1,500-3,000 EGP), and you’ll have to settle up before you leave. It won’t land you in jail, but it can delay your departure and cause problems at the airport.

How to stay healthy while traveling in Egypt?

Staying healthy in Egypt is mostly about avoiding stomach issues, beating the heat, and steering clear of sketchy water. Medical care is decent in cities but basic in rural areas, so bring essentials with you, especially meds you rely on. A travel first-aid kit goes a long way.

Medical care and pharmacies

Cairo, Alexandria, and tourist hotspots like Luxor and Hurghada have solid private clinics and international hospitals. Names like Cleopatra Hospital (Cairo) and Nile Hospital (Luxor) are good bets. Elsewhere, quality varies. Travel insurance with decent medical coverage is a must.

Pharmacies are everywhere and often open late. You’ll find most basic meds without a prescription, but brand names may differ. Bring anything specific, especially for allergies or chronic issues.

Vaccinations and prep

You won’t need vaccines to enter Egypt, but the following are worth checking with a travel clinic:

• Tetanus and diphtheria – Scrapes and cuts happen.
• Hepatitis A – Spread via food and water.
• Hepatitis B – If staying long-term or needing medical care.
• Typhoid – Especially if you're eating street food or heading rural.

No malaria risk. No need for antimalarials.

Food, water, and gut survival

Tap water isn’t safe to drink – stick to bottled or filtered water, including for brushing your teeth. It’s cheap and widely available.

To avoid stomach issues:

• Eat hot food, not lukewarm leftovers.
• Avoid raw veggies unless you peel them.
• Watch where locals eat – high turnover is a good sign.
• Use hand sanitizer regularly.

Heat and sun

The real danger in Egypt? The sun. Heatstroke is common, especially in Upper Egypt and desert zones. Drink tons of water, wear a hat, and take breaks in the shade.

Sunburn hits hard thanks to dry air and high UV. Even in winter, slap on sunscreen and reapply often.

Other things to watch out for

• Stray dogs and cats are common – don’t feed or pet them.
• Mosquitoes are more annoying than dangerous, but bring repellent.
• Sand and dust can trigger allergies – carry a mask or scarf if you're sensitive.

Cultural etiquette to know before visiting Egypt

Egypt is used to tourists, but it’s still a traditional, mostly Muslim country where cultural missteps can cause awkward moments. A bit of respect goes a long way. You don’t have to be hyper-formal – just stay aware and read the room.

Dress modestly – even in the heat

Egypt isn’t strict across the board, but modest dress is expected in most places. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, especially outside Cairo and Alexandria. Men: leave the shorts and muscle shirts for the beach resorts.

Visiting mosques? Long trousers and covered arms are a must. Women should bring a scarf to cover their hair.

For desert trips, wear loose, breathable clothing like locals do. It protects you better than shorts and tank tops ever will.

Greetings and social respect

Egyptians are warm and welcoming, but first meetings are usually formal. Handshakes are the norm – right hand only – and many men won’t shake hands with women unless she offers first. Don’t be offended; it’s cultural, not personal.

You’ll hear a lot of “welcome” and “please come in” – hospitality is serious here. If you’re invited to someone’s home, take off your shoes and bring a small gift. Pastries or something from your country always go down well.

Public behavior: low-key is best

Egypt is not the place for PDA, shouting matches, or public drunkenness. Holding hands is usually fine, but kissing in public will earn you disapproving looks – or worse.

Drinking alcohol is legal in licensed places, but being visibly drunk in public is a bad idea. It’s not just rude – it can get you in trouble.

Dining etiquette: don’t rush, and use your right hand

If you’re offered tea or coffee, accept it – it’s more than just a drink, it’s part of the social ritual.

Meals may be shared, especially in homes. Use your right hand to eat or pass food. Don’t dig around – take from your side of the dish. If you’re the guest, you’ll be served first, and refusing seconds might take some insistence.

Religion and customs

Islam shapes daily life, especially outside urban centers. The call to prayer is part of the soundscape, and Fridays are the main holy day – some businesses open late or close early.

Avoid photographing people at prayer or inside mosques unless invited. During Ramadan, don’t eat, drink, or smoke in public during the day – it’s not illegal, but it’s considered disrespectful.

Tipping culture

Tipping – called baksheesh – is part of everyday life. It’s not mandatory, but it’s expected.

• Tip 10% in restaurants if service isn’t included.
• Round up fares for taxis and rideshares.
• Give small tips to hotel staff, porters, guides, and even bathroom attendants.
• Keep small change handy – it’ll make your life easier.

Is Egypt a good destination for families?

Absolutely – if your crew is into pharaohs, pyramids, and a bit of organized chaos, Egypt with kids is unforgettable. It’s not built around kid-specific entertainment, but history-loving kids and curious teens will be in their element. Think tombs to crawl into, camels to ride, boats to cruise, and ancient myths brought to life. Just be prepared for heat, uneven terrain, and sensory overload in the cities.

Top spots for families in Egypt

• The Pyramids of Giza are a no-brainer. Kids can climb (some of) the smaller structures, ride camels or horses, and explore tombs. Skip midday visits – go early or late for cooler temps and fewer crowds.
• Luxor is like a living museum. Karnak Temple, the Valley of the Kings, and Luxor Temple all offer hands-on exploring. Some tombs are steep or narrow, so go at your child’s pace.
• Aswan offers calmer vibes and boat rides galore – perfect for families needing a break from Cairo’s frenzy. A felucca cruise at sunset is magic.
• A Nile cruise is a smooth way to cover a lot without constant packing and unpacking. Many boats cater to families, with pools and flexible dining.
• The Red Sea (Hurghada or Sharm el-Sheik) has some of the best beaches in Egypt, snorkeling, and boat trips with glass bottoms. Perfect for unwinding after temple-hopping.
• Cairo’s Egyptian Museum can be overwhelming, but it is packed with mummies, statues, and gold that even kids find fascinating. Nearby, Al-Azhar Park offers space to run around and great skyline views.

Getting around and where to stay

• Cairo traffic is wild – use Uber, not taxis. Car seats aren’t common, so bring one if that’s a deal-breaker.
• Baby carriers work better than strollers in most areas. Sidewalks are uneven or nonexistent.
• Most Egypt accommodations are kid-friendly, especially larger chains and resorts. Smaller guesthouses vary – check ahead for family rooms or baby gear.

Food and supplies

• Egyptian food works well for kids: rice, grilled meat, bread, and mild spices. Falafel (taameya), koshary, and lentil soup are safe bets.
• You’ll find diapers, wipes, and formula in major cities, but stick to bottled water and pack snacks for road trips or site visits.
• High chairs are rare, but locals are friendly and patient with kids, even noisy ones.

Health and safety tips

• The sun is intense – bring hats, sunscreen, and more water than you think you need.
• Desert areas get cold at night – even in summer – so pack layers.
• Tap water isn’t safe to drink. Use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth.
• Pharmacies are everywhere and often well-stocked. Medical care is solid in Cairo and resort towns, but patchy elsewhere.
• Watch your step – lots of sites involve stairs, sand, or slippery stone. Closed shoes help.

What are the best places to visit in Egypt?

Egypt’s not just pyramids and camels – though yes, there are plenty of those. It’s ancient wonders, chaotic cities, lazy river cruises, and Red Sea escapes, all jammed into one endlessly fascinating country. Here are the best places to visit in Egypt – and why you shouldn’t skip them.

• Cairo: Loud, hectic, and alive. Home to the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum. Go for the ancient monuments, stay for the street food, souks, and skyline views from rooftop cafés. You’ll find plenty of places to stay in Cairo, from budget guesthouses downtown to luxury hotels with Nile views. A wild intro to Egypt – but a necessary one.
• Luxor: An open-air museum on both sides of the Nile. Don’t miss Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, and the Valley of the Kings (yes, King Tut’s tomb is here). Best explored over a few days – and even better by felucca or bike.
• Aswan: Slower, calmer, and often overlooked. Nubian culture, riverside ruins, and boat trips to Philae Temple. Great for winding down and soaking up the Nile without the chaos.
• Abu Simbel: Massive temples carved into rock near the Sudanese border. Built by Ramses II to impress – and it still works. A long trek from Aswan, but totally worth it.
• Alexandria: Mediterranean vibes and Greco-Roman ruins. More about libraries, sea views, and seafood than pharaohs. Great if you’re craving a change from the desert and dust.
• The Red Sea (Hurghada, Marsa Alam, or Sharm el-Sheik): Beaches, coral reefs, and crystal-clear water. Great for diving, snorkeling, or just recovering from all the temples. Ideal for families and sunseekers.
• Siwa Oasis: A desert escape like no other. Mudbrick houses, date palms, salt lakes, and Berber culture. Remote and raw – it’s not for everyone, but unforgettable if you make the journey.
• Dahab: Laid-back beach town on the Sinai coast. Fewer resorts, more diving and chill cafés. Backpacker-friendly and perfect for a few lazy days.
• White Desert: Surreal chalk formations and sandscapes that look like another planet. Go with a guide, camp under the stars, and wake up to alien rock shapes bathed in pink light.
• Mount Sinai and St Catherine’s Monastery: A spiritual and scenic climb. Hike up before sunrise and watch the desert light up below you. Tough but rewarding – and paired well with nearby Red Sea stops.

How long to spend in Egypt?

Egypt might seem like a one-stop trip for pyramids and mummies, but there’s a lot more here than Giza and the Nile. Distances are bigger than you think, travel days can be long, and there’s always one more temple, souk, or coral reef calling your name. The best Egypt itinerary? One that gives you breathing room between the chaos and the wonders.

Ask yourself:

• Are you ticking off the pyramids and flying out, or cruising the Nile and diving into local life?
• Is this a fast track or a slow roll?
• Are you on a tour, hiring a driver, or winging it with trains and buses?

Rough timing breakdown

• 3-5 days – Go for the essentials. Base yourself in Cairo, see the Pyramids, Sphinx, and Egyptian Museum, then squeeze in a day trip to Alexandria or Saqqara. It’ll be full-on, but doable.
• 7-day Egypt itinerary or 10 days in Egypt – The classic loop. Start in Cairo, fly or train to Luxor and Aswan for temples and tombs, then unwind on a Nile cruise or hit the Red Sea for some sun and snorkeling. This is the sweet spot for most first-timers.
• 2 weeks – Adds breathing space. Toss in Abu Simbel, spend a night on a felucca, or slow down in Aswan. You can also explore more deeply: wander Islamic Cairo, dive into Coptic history, or relax in Siwa Oasis if you’re feeling adventurous.
• 3-4 weeks – Now you’re traveling. Combine everything above, with time to linger: spend a few days in Dahab or Marsa Alam, road-trip through the Western Desert, or explore lesser-known temples and towns most tours skip.

What’s the best way to plan an Egypt itinerary?

Planning a trip to Egypt isn’t just about dot-to-dot sightseeing – it’s about balancing chaos and calm. Egypt’s huge, and while the classic route hits Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan, distances are long, logistics can be bumpy, and the real magic happens when you leave time to look up, wander off, or sip mint tea by the Nile.

Start with your timeframe

How long you’ve got shapes everything.

• Under a week – Stick to Cairo and one other spot. Cairo + Luxor works if you don’t mind a flight or an overnight train. Cairo + Alexandria is doable overland.
• 7-10 days – Classic loop: Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, with time for a short Nile cruise or day trips to Abu Simbel or Edfu. Great balance of temples and downtime.
• 2 weeks – Add Siwa, the Red Sea (Dahab, Sharm el-Sheik, or Hurghada), or slow your pace. Consider the White Desert or Mount Sinai for something wilder.

Pick your Egypt, not someone else’s Instagram

Into ancient history?

• Cairo’s Egyptian Museum and Pyramids
• Luxor (Valley of the Kings, Karnak, Luxor Temple)
• Aswan and Abu Simbel (stunning and worth the early start)

Into the chill and nature?

• Nile felucca rides in Aswan
• Dahab or Marsa Alam (snorkeling, diving, beach time)
• Siwa Oasis (salt lakes, hot springs, desert silence)

After something unique?

• White Desert camping (bizarre rock formations and starry skies)
• Mount Sinai sunrise hike + St Catherine’s Monastery
• Islamic and Coptic Cairo’s side streets and historic mosques

Getting around Egypt: plan this part carefully

Getting around Egypt is half the adventure – and sometimes half the hassle. The country’s big, the distances are long, and while there are options, they don’t always run on time (or logic). Trains are solid, flights save time, and ride apps are your best friend in Cairo. But spontaneous travel? Not the move. A bit of planning will save you hours – and a lot of frustration.

• Trains: Great for Cairo-Luxor-Aswan. Book 1st class or sleeper trains.
• Domestic flights: Fast and affordable. Use them to connect Cairo with Luxor, Aswan, or the Red Sea.
• Buses: Workable, but slow. Good for Red Sea towns.
• Taxis: Use Uber in Cairo and Alexandria. In other cities, negotiate hard or use hotel drivers.
• Self-drive: Not recommended unless you love adrenaline and chaos. Roads are hectic, and signs are inconsistent.

Season matters more than you think

• Spring (March-May): Best mix of good weather and manageable crowds.
• Autumn (October-November): Still warm but not unbearable. Great for cruising and beach trips.
• Summer (June-August): Prepare to sweat. Avoid midday site visits. Stick to the coast or plan AC-heavy stops.
• Winter (December-February): Good for southern Egypt, but Alexandria and Cairo can get cold and damp. Bring layers.

Book the big stuff early – leave wiggle room for the rest

Lock in:

• Nile cruises and sleeper trains
• Abu Simbel flights or tours
• Hotels near major sites (especially in Luxor and Aswan during peak season)

The rest? Egypt’s flexible. Many local drivers and tour operators work through WhatsApp and word of mouth. Leave space in your schedule – you’ll thank yourself when the chaos kicks in.

How to slow travel in Egypt?

Egypt doesn’t have to be a checklist of temples and tombs at warp speed. Sure, there’s a lot to see – but if you’re only rushing from pyramid to pyramid, you’ll miss what makes the country tick. To really feel Egypt, slow down.

Start in Cairo, but don’t just dash through the pyramids and bolt. Walk the backstreets of Islamic Cairo, sip mint tea in a quiet courtyard, and let the call to prayer echo over Al-Azhar Park at sunset. Wander Zamalek for galleries, bookstores, and Nile-side cafés that locals actually go to.

Skip the airport hop to Luxor – take the sleeper train instead. It’s overnight, yes, but watching the Nile valley unfold from a moving window gives you context no flight ever will.

In Luxor and Aswan, don’t just temple-hop. Take a felucca ride at sunset, visit a Nubian village, or just sit by the water and do nothing. The same goes for Siwa Oasis – stay a few days, soak in a salt lake, and let desert life slow your heartbeat.

Key to slow travel in Egypt?

• Stay longer in fewer places.
• Say yes to conversations – Egyptians will talk to you.
• Take local transport at least once.
• Don’t panic if things run late. That’s part of the experience.

How to handle money and payments in Egypt?

Egypt still runs on cash, so don’t expect to tap your way across the country. Especially once you leave Cairo or the resort towns, it’s paper money that gets things done.

The local currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP), known locally as “geneh.” ATMs are easy to find in cities, but some charge high fees – stick to machines at major banks like Banque Misr, CIB, or QNB.

You can use cards at most hotels, tourist restaurants, and big stores, but small shops, souks, taxis, and street food stalls are cash only. Always carry small bills – nobody ever has change for that 200-pound note when you’re trying to buy water.

Bring a debit or travel card and withdraw pounds locally. Currency exchange is fine at airports and banks, but avoid sketchy kiosks with too-good-to-be-true rates.

Tipping is part of the deal. In restaurants, 10% is standard (check if it’s already added). Tip porters, drivers, and guides in small notes – 10 to 50 EGP depending on service. Even a few pounds make a difference.

Pro tips:

• Carry cash for bathrooms – yes, even public ones sometimes require a tip.
• Don't flash big bills in markets.
• Count your change – especially in taxis.

What are the most common scams?

Egypt is famous for ancient wonders – and modern-day hustles. While most people you’ll meet are friendly and genuine, some will see you as a walking wallet. The scams aren’t usually dangerous, but they are annoying. Here’s what to watch for:

• Taxi tactics – The all-time classic. Drivers “forget” to turn on the meter or claim it’s broken, especially around airports or tourist hotspots. Always agree on a price before the ride starts, or use Uber in big cities to skip the negotiation altogether.
• “Free” help at tourist sites – Someone offers to take your photo or show you a shortcut, then demands a tip. Be polite but firm—if you didn’t ask for help, you’re not obligated to pay.
• Papyrus and perfume shops – Those “genuine” papyrus paintings or “pure” lotus oils? Often mass-produced knock-offs. Shop with licensed dealers or museum-affiliated stores if you want the real thing.
• Fake tickets or guides – At places like the Pyramids or Karnak, you might be approached by unofficial “guides” or ticket resellers. Stick to official counters and look for guides with Ministry of Tourism badges.
• Over-friendly hustlers – Especially around Giza and Luxor, you may get the hard sell disguised as hospitality: “Come have tea, no pressure!” Then you’re in a shop with someone’s cousin pushing carpets. If you’re not interested, say no and walk away confidently.
• Animal photo ops – People might offer you a “quick photo” with a camel, horse, or even a monkey, then demand cash. Always ask the price before you snap.

When in doubt, smile, say “la shukran” (no thank you), and keep walking. Confidence is your best defense.

How to travel responsibly and ethically in Egypt?

Traveling in Egypt is about more than temples and tombs – it’s about showing respect to the people, the land, and the long, fragile heritage you’re standing in. Here’s how to be a good guest:

• Dress respectfully – Especially in rural areas and religious sites. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and bring a scarf for mosque visits. Men should avoid shorts outside resort towns. You’ll fit in better and get more respect.
• Learn a little Arabic – A few words go a long way. “Shukran” (thank you), “salaam” (hello/peace), and “afwan” (you’re welcome) can open doors – figuratively and sometimes literally.
• Support local businesses – Skip the hotel gift shop and buy from local artisans or markets. Khan El Khalili in Cairo, Nubian villages near Aswan, and workshops in Luxor all offer handmade goods that actually support local communities.
• Respect historical sites – Don’t climb on ruins, touch hieroglyphs, or pocket pieces “for luck.” These sites have survived thousands of years – don’t be the reason they don’t last another hundred.
• Avoid exploitative animal activities – Think twice before riding camels or horses at tourist spots, especially around Giza. If the animal looks tired, mistreated, or malnourished, walk away. Ethical options exist – do your research.
• Be water-smart – Egypt is dry, and water is a precious resource. Take short showers, reuse towels, and refill a bottle instead of buying plastic ones daily.

Final tip? Treat Egypt like a living culture, not just a photo op. Respect goes further than you think – and often earns you better experiences in return.

Don’t skip the local ferry in Luxor

Most tourists cross the Nile by private boat or taxi, but the public ferry between Luxor’s East and West Banks is dirt cheap, scenic, and packed with locals heading home from the market. It runs regularly from morning till night, costs a few Egyptian pounds, and gives you a rare slice of everyday life. Skip the cruise lounge and ride with the crowd – it’s five minutes of real Egypt.

Fridays are for families, not sightseeing

Friday is Egypt’s main day of prayer, which means mosques are packed, businesses open late, and streets go oddly quiet until mid-afternoon. Museums may stay open, but shops, banks, and some ruins delay their hours. On the upside? Parks, gardens, and Corniche promenades come alive with families having picnics and playing music. Join them with a tea in hand – or just people-watch while Cairo catches its breath.

Learn to love the baksheesh dance

Tipping – baksheesh – is everywhere in Egypt. It’s not just for restaurant servers; expect to tip bathroom attendants, temple guards who offer photo ops, and hotel porters. It can feel constant, but it’s part of the system. Carry small notes, tip with a smile, and don’t stress if it feels awkward at first. A few pounds go a long way, and a little generosity smooths a lot of interactions.