Things To Know Before You Go

To pass through Egyptian customs smoothly:

Green Channel
Use this if you are carrying:
- Personal items only
- Within the allowed duty-free limits
- No restricted or prohibited items

Red Channel
Use this if you have:
- Valuable goods over duty-free limits
- Items requiring declaration (electronics, professional equipment, etc.)
- Restricted or prohibited items

Travelers may bring:
- Personal belongings
- Items up to 100 EGP in value
- 1 liter of alcohol
- 200 cigarettes OR 25 cigars OR 200g tobacco
Cameras, laptops, watches, jewelry, and personal electronics (registered on arrival if needed)

Egypt is warm, dry, and sunny for most of the year.
General Guide:
- September – April: Ideal weather, comfortable temperatures
- June – July: Hot, especially in Upper Egypt (Luxor, Aswan)
- Winter evenings: Cool after sunset
- Rain: Rare except in Cairo & the Delta
- Khamsin Wind: Dusty, hot wind in March/April
- Light clothing is ideal, with warmer layers for winter evenings.

- Hotels and Nile cruises offer high-quality buffet meals.
- Local restaurants offer authentic Egyptian cuisine.
- Always drink bottled water.
- Tap water is fine for washing, brushing teeth, but not for drinking.
- Avoid buying food from street vendors.

Egypt produces good-quality beer and wine such as Stella, Sakara, Omar Khayyam, and Obelisque.
Alcohol is available in hotels, cruises, and tourist areas.

- Stay hydrated, especially in warm regions.
- Avoid alcohol on your first day in hot climates.
- Wear sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
- Beware of heat exhaustion—drink water frequently.
- Avoid street food and always use bottled water.
- Consult your doctor about vaccinations before traveling.
- Keep basic medications with you (antibiotics, diarrhea treatment, etc.).

- Arabic is the official language.
- English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
- In Red Sea destinations (Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh), many locals speak German, Italian, French, and Russian.
- Learning a few Arabic words is always appreciated.

Egypt is mostly a cash-friendly country.
Visa & MasterCard widely accepted.
ATMs are available in cities—but may be limited in remote areas.

Always keep some cash for:
- Souvenirs
- Small shops
- Tips
- Entrance fees (if not included in your package)

Photography allowed in most historical sites.
Flash is not allowed in tombs.
Some sites charge separate fees for photos and videos.
Prohibited: Military zones, airports, bridges, railways.
Always ask before photographing people.

Egypt is famous for:
- Papyrus
- Perfumes & essential oils
- Gold & silver jewelry
- Spices
- Cotton clothing
- Galabeyas
- Carpets & handmade crafts
- Souvenirs
Bargaining is common in local markets (souqs).

Egypt operates on Eastern European Time (GMT+2).
And operates Daylight Saving Time (+3 hours) from the last Friday in April until the last Friday in October.

Tipping is customary and appreciated.
General guidance:
Restaurants: around 10-12%
Hotel staff & porters: small tips
Site guards: small tip for assistance
Tour guides & drivers: based on service level
Tipping is always optional but encouraged for good service.

We strongly recommend travelers purchase travel insurance that covers:
- Medical emergencies
- Trip cancellation/interruption
- Lost luggage
- Delays or missed flights

Voltage: 220V / 50Hz
Plug Type: European 2-pin (Type C/F)
Bring a universal adapter and suitable chargers.

- Wide-brimmed hat
- Sunglasses
- Light scarf for religious sites
- Comfortable clothing
- Light jacket for winter evenings
- Strong sunscreen
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Prescription medications
- Swimwear
- Small daypack
- Sleeping bag (only for desert expeditions or felucca trips)

- Dress modestly at religious sites.
- Women should cover their shoulders and avoid short clothing in mosques/churches.
- Casual, lightweight clothing is suitable elsewhere.