ABOUT EGYPT

Best Time To Travel

Egypt is a country that you can visit at any time of the year as it offers plenty of sunshine and minimal rain however, the ideal months to visit Egypt are from September to November and March to May as the weather is mild and the temperatures are pleasant. The summer months which are from June to August usually mean that the temperatures get very high. This is perfect weather for soaking up the sun’s rays and snorkeling, however. From October to February which is Egypt’s winter months, the weather is cooler with the chance of some rain.  In comparison to most European countries, the temperatures are still warm and activities such as diving can be done year-round.

Visas

Most visitors to Egypt are required to have a visa, which can be arranged through Egyptian consulates worldwide, online via the official website: https://www.visa2egypt.gov.eg/, or upon arrival at the Cairo International Airport. Visitors from the UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the EU may purchase their visa stamps upon arrival in Egypt. South Africans need to arrange their Egyptian visa prior to arrival. Please note that the single-entry tourist visa fee can only be paid in USD, GBP, or Euro. Passport validity entry requirements: Travellers entering Egypt must have a passport valid for at least 6 months from their arrival date. This information is provided only as guidance, we strongly advise that you check with the consulate as this information can change at any time and with little notice. It is your responsibility to make sure that all the required travel documents are ready when traveling.

Culture

Egypt’s culture is a fusion of both ancient times and the modern today. The culture of Egypt has thousands of years of chronicled history with Egypt being among one of the initial civilizations. This can be seen through its impressive monuments, sites, architecture, and artwork. Although this is still evident in Egypt, the influence of modern culture is apparent in the main cities such as Cairo and Alexandria where the likes of the internet and television have opened the Egyptians' eyes up to the Western world of different ideas such as music, fashion, and literature. Though this may be the case, Egyptians firmly hold onto their traditions and customs. Egypt is mainly Muslim with the clear majority being Sunni Muslims. However, there are also a lot of Christians in Egypt where the greater part belongs to the Coptic Orthodox Church, the dominant religion in Egypt before Islam.  Whichever religion, religion in Egypt controls many parts of societal life, is permitted by the law and life entails daily prayer.  The religious holidays of Ramadan and Eid are the most significant events for Muslims.

Food 

  When you visit Egypt, it is an essential part of experiencing the country by trying the food and drink. Egyptian food is a combination of Turkish, Syrian, Lebanese, Greek, and French cuisines adapted to match what the locals like. Street stalls and eateries provide dishes that are tasty, simple, and cheap whereas restaurants offer a wider variety of dishes and are more expensive. Nonetheless, getting the opportunity to taste a broad assortment of Egyptian food is what it’s all about. The array of spices, vegetables, fruit, and meat that is prepared so different from how you've used to makes a trip to Egypt unique. Due to Egypt being mainly a Muslim country, alcohol is not widely drunk however can be obtained in most places. Egypt’s countrywide beverage is tea (shai) and is very much part of their everyday lives.

Shopping

With windy, vibrant streets with hidden souks, diverse smells, sights, sounds, and plenty of shops, Egypt ensures that your shopping experience will be an exciting adventure. Cairo offers plenty of markets, bazaars, and flea markets where everything from jewelry and clothes, to spices and meat, to furniture and crafts, are sold. What’s more, haggling is all part of the fun and buying process so brush up on your bartering skills to get the best price.

Festivals & Events

Ramadan: Ramadan is perhaps the most important holiday in Egypt. It occurs on the ninth month of the Muslim lunar year and is a time of blessings and prayers to honour the revelation of the first verses of the Qur'an to the Prophet Muhammad. Ramadan is also a time of fasting where Muslims evade food and drink from sunrise to sunset throughout the month. Eid al-Fitr: Eid al-Fitr signifies the end of the month of Ramadan or in other words is a festival for the breaking of the fast. In many of the cities, there are big celebrations for this and a lot of feasting. Many Egyptians who can afford it, take time to travel and others gather in the streets waiting for sheep and cows to be slaughtered after the morning prayer when the holiday arrives. Abu Simbel Festival: Ramses II created a large temple at Abu Simbel so that the internal chamber would light up twice a year; in February, on the day he took the throne, and in October, the anniversary of his birthday. Every year the Abu Simbel Festival draws a crowd before sunrise to witness the jet of light progressively creeping through the stone and enlightening the sculptures of Ramses, Ra, and Amun in the central chamber.

Egypt FAQ

Do I need a visa to enter Egypt?

Most visitors to Egypt are required to have a visa, which can be arranged through Egyptian consulates worldwide, online via the official website:https://www.visa2egypt.gov.eg/, or upon arrival at the Cairo International Airport. Visitors from the UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the EU may purchase their visa stamps upon arrival in Egypt. South Africans need to arrange their Egyptian visa prior to arrival. Please note that the single-entry tourist visa fee can only be paid in USD, GBP, or Euro. Passport validity entry requirements: Travellers entering Egypt must have a passport valid for at least 6 months from their arrival date. This information is provided only as guidance, we strongly advise that you check with the consulate as this information can change at any time and with little notice. It is your responsibility to make sure that all the required travel documents are ready when traveling.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling to Egypt?

Yes, all passengers traveling with us must have travel insurance before participating in any of our tours. Your guide will collect your travel insurance details on the first day of your trip. It is your responsibility to make sure you have adequate and suitable travel insurance in place. You may read more about this here.

When is the best time to visit Egypt?

Egyptian summers are typically hot and dry throughout the countryside and humid along the Nile Delta and the Mediterranean coast. Winters are mild with occasional rain but usually bright, sunny days and cold nights. Spring and Autumn seasons are felt rather short, and during the 50 days (khamaseen) between the end of March and mid-May, dust storms can occur sporadically. If you are traveling between November and March on a tour that includes trekking on Mt. Sinai or Nile cruising, you should expect temperatures to fall considerably at night. At this time of the year, temperatures can drop to below zero on Mt. Sinai. Please make sure to check the Pre-departure file of your tour (found on each tour page online) for the average temperatures at sites visited.

What is the internet access like in Egypt?

Internet access has become increasingly common in hotels, cafes, and restaurants in large Egyptian cities, however, the quality of connection differs. Many internet cafes can be found in the cities as well. Make sure to enable data roaming on your mobile if you wish to use 3G/4G abroad, although the connection may be unreliable in smaller towns and rural areas. Purchasing an Egyptian SIM card for the duration of your tour may be a cost-effective option. Your guide will be happy to advise on this.

Can I use my mobile while in Egypt?

Mobile coverage is generally quite good in urban areas of Egypt, however, may be spotty or unavailable at remote areas. Make sure to enable global roaming before leaving home to be able to use your mobile in Egypt. 3G access may be unreliable. You can check with your mobile provider about your options. Alternatively, purchasing a SIM card in Egypt can be a rather cost-effective option; your guide will be happy to advise on this.

Can I drink tap water in Egypt?

It is not recommended to drink tap water in Egypt unless it is clearly stated to be safe to drink. Bottled water is cheap and available throughout the country. However please consider using a reusable water bottle, especially if you're on a longer trip, and reduce your use of plastic. Alternatively, you may carry water purification tablets with you.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Egypt?

Major credit/debit cards are widely accepted by large retailers, hotels, and at tourist sites. However, small shops and vendors may not accept cards, we would recommend carrying cash with you for small purchases.

What is ATM access like in Egypt?

ATMs are easily found in large cities and touristic areas in Egypt, however, are not as common in remote areas or smaller towns. Although they usually offer good exchange rates, some networks may charge heavy transaction fees. Please note that cards may not be accepted in more remote areas, so we recommend that you have enough cash before departing urban areas.

Are airport transfers included and how do I arrange them?

All tours starting in Cairo include arrival airport transfer if your flight lands in Cairo on the first day of your tour between 5 am and 11:30 pm or if you have booked pre-accommodation with us, Airport Transfers. You must inform us of your flight details (date of flight, flight number, arrival time, and name of travelers) at least 2 weeks prior to your departure date. If you do not receive confirmation that your pick-up is arranged, please contact us. You will be picked up by a representative holding our sign at the airport. 

Do you have solo travellers on your tours?

Solo travelers often join our tours to meet and travel with like-minded adventurers, forming long-standing friendships. We also strive to provide a relaxed and sociable tour experience to allow the group to weld throughout the journey. Solo travelers will be roomed with another solo traveler of the same gender or can upgrade to a solo room by paying the single supplement.

I’m a solo passenger, do I need to pay single supplement?

There are always solo travelers on our tours. If you don’t mind being roomed with another single traveler of the same gender, you do not need to pay the supplement. Single supplement is for travelers who would like to stay in a single room for the duration of their tour. Please note that the single supplement is not available on feluccas.

Can I be roomed with my friends?

Absolutely if space allows.

Do you arrange flights?

Our tours do not include airfare to/from the destination. It is your responsibility to make it to the starting point of your tour on time. We can advise and make flight arrangements separately and upon request. 

Will my dietary requirements be catered for?

If you provide your dietary requirements at the time of booking, we will do our best to make the necessary arrangements where available. You can leave a comment under the "Notes" section when making an online booking or simply contact us. Please note that gluten-free & vegan options are quite limited in the country.

What currency should I bring?

The Egyptian Pound (EGP) is the local currency. Although you can pay with USD and EUR in some places, you’ll always get a better deal paying in the local currency. You can get EGP from ATMs using your debit card or travel card — withdrawing cash on a credit card is less favorable. Visa and MasterCard are commonly accepted at tourist sites and large retailers in the cities, however, may not be accepted in rural areas or smaller shops.

Is there any luggage restriction?

Good news, there isn’t any luggage restriction on our tours as long as you’re able to carry your own luggage - usually just for a very short distance. If your tour includes a felucca stay, we highly recommend also bringing a small bag. This will allow you to leave your luggage on the bus and take your smaller bag on board for 2 nights.

Do I need to tip?

Tipping service staff is very common in Egypt - typically around 10% for a restaurant meal. It is also standard to round up the fare or the bill and to tip taxi drivers and porters. Please note that locals will expect tips for any service they provide to travelers, including taking a photo. Your tour guide and crew would be especially appreciative and honored with this kind of traditional gratitude at the end of your tour.

Will my tour be affected if I travel during Ramadan?

Ramadan (Ramazan) is the Islamic holy month, during which Muslims fast from sunrise until sunset. Fasting means 'nil by mouth' including food, water, and cigarettes. Ramadan dates move every year. Some local cafes and restaurants close during the day; however tourists are not expected to fast, and there are many cafes and restaurants that stay open to cater to them. During Ramadan, you are encouraged to show your respect by not walking around in public eating, chewing gum, smoking, or drinking (especially alcohol). It is fine to do so in your hotel or in a cafe/restaurant recommended by your tour leader. Your tour leader will organize lunches and dinners to make Ramadan easier for you. During the month you will find that tourist sites often close early to allow staff to return home in time to break their fast, and shops often open late and close early.

What is a Felucca?

Feluccas are basic, traditional sailing boats that have been used on the Nile for centuries. They are very simple sailing boats without engines. Each felucca accommodates 6-8 people and is crewed by a captain and a deckhand – both of whom have grown up along the banks of the Nile. As well as being experienced Nile sailors, they also make the most delicious meals out of simple local ingredients. You may enjoy a lunch of local bread, white cheese, hummus, and delicious fresh tomatoes or a dinner of pasta and mixed vegetables with tomato sauce. While the deck is covered with mattresses and cushions for a comfortable sleep on the deck, a light sleeping bag might be preferred if you are traveling in the winter even though blankets are provided. Simple boats also mean no facilities on-board, however, we arrange another boat with on-board facilities to tag along your journey, providing a more comfortable adventure. Felucca's experience is an essential highlight of our most authentic and impressive adventures in Egypt!

What is the difference between Land, Felucca and Nile Cruise tours?

You may have realized that some of our tours have very similar itineraries to each other, except for a few days. You will be visiting the same incredible highlights with all these options. The only difference among these is how you spend 2 nights along the Nile.

• Land Tours: You will be staying at hotels and driving to the sites. There is still a daily felucca trip on the Nile to experience the Nubian lifestyle.

• Felucca Tours: You will be sleeping on the deck of a traditional felucca for 2 nights, sailing to the temples along the Nile during the day. It will be a few days of back-to-basics, recommended to adventure lovers. The most authentic way to experience Egypt.

• Nile Cruise Tours: You will be sailing on a luxury Nile cruise with en-suite facilities and a swimming pool onboard.