Egypt is one of the world’s most popular bucket list destinations, from the first pyramids ever built to fascinating ancient temples and much more, there is so many incredible things to see. During our trip, we discovered a host of tips and tricks that we wished we knew before we set off. Applying these will be sure to set you up for success on your trip and will ensure it remains enjoyable and stress free from start to finish.
1) Uber Scam
When traveling around Egypt, the most convenient way to get around is by using uber, but there is a common additional fee when doing so. We quickly found out that this is the norm for all uber drivers.
Unfortunately, Egypt is rife with scammers and taxis are where most tourists fall victim. Even when booking a ride withUber, we often experienced drivers asking us to give more money in addition to what was paid through the app. They will cite reasons such as road taxes as the reason for doing so but they are just trying to rip off customers, and it is just a hassle worth avoiding.
2) Download The InDrive App
Download InDrive app Using an app called InDrive helped us avoid all the hassle that came with getting a ride somewhere and is a hack we wish we knew about during the first half of our trip. InDrive is an app that was recommended to us by one of our local tour gives. It’s very commonly used in Egypt. Like Uber, you can see the drivers’ reviews
3) Pack Light, Flowy Clothing (And Keep Modesty in Mind)
Since Egypt is a Muslim country, it’s important to dress modestly during your visit. In general, you’ll want to keep your shoulders covered and wear clothing that goes below your knees, especially when visiting mosques or any other religious sites.
At the same time, the Egyptian heat can be intense, so lightweight and breathable clothing will make a huge difference. I would also recommend avoiding black when possible since it absorbs a lot of heat in the sun.
One thing that worked really well for me was bringing a lightweight shawl from Amazon. I could easily throw it over my shoulders whenever I needed a little extra coverage. Below are a few outfits I bought for the trip in case you’re looking for some outfit inspiration!
3) Negotiate Prices Beforehand
A great rule of thumb, when buying in Egypt, is making sure to negotiate on price because tourists are often targeted by locals when it comes to overcharging.
Many
Whether it’s as small as a cup of coffee or as big as a hand-crafted rug, to avoid being ripped off and to get the best deal for yourself, you will have to haggle on prices.
Check Prices Beforehand
When buying anything, no matter how small, if it doesn’t have a price tag, be prepared to barter and negotiate for a better price. The selling culture in Egypt is going be different from what you’re used to with a lot of pestering and, unfortunately, some dishonesty. Tourists are commonly targeted for scammers so be aware about the price you’re paying and convert it to your own currency in your head before tapping your card or handing over cash. You should maintain this vigilant mindset, not just with street vendors, but also in establishments such as shops and cafes where staff can try pull a fast one.
For example, we were at an established cafe
Whether it’s as small as a cup of coffee or as big as a hand-crafted rug, to avoid being ripped off and to get the best deal for yourself, you will have to haggle on prices.
4) Carry More Cash Than You’d Think
Keep cash on hand/pay by card when possible If you plan on going on plenty of tours during your visit, then having cash on hand is important as you will need to tip your guide.
It’s not only important to carry cash, but small bills in particular. Tipping is very big in Egyptian culture so for any service provided to you, you will be expected to tip. For example, in many of the temples and historic monuments you visit, there will be security at the entrance and inside to ensure you are not touching anything you are not supposed to. They will often offer to take your photo or explain the historical site. What many tourists don’t know is that afterward, they will expect a tip for doing.
During our very first day in Egypt at our sunrise camel ride and Pyramid Tour, our guide explained all this to us, so we were sure to give small bills when we accepted the service or declined the photo or explanation when we did not have any cash to give.
Not every place you go will accept debit/credit card so whenever you can pay via card, we encourage you to do so and save your cash for where you will need it.
You can find ATM’s if you must use them but with the fee to use it, as well as the poor exchange rate they give, you will be losing money when resorting to this.
5) See More than Just Cairo
Cairo is what often comes to mind when planning a trip to Egypt and for good reason! However, this means that other great destinations go under the radar which we find a real shame.
Cities such as Aswan and Luxor are home to their own unique and fascinating temples, museums, excursions, and much more that you would regret not including in your trip.
6) Go on a Sunrise Camel Tour
This is more of a recommendation than a tip per say, but one of the highlights of our trip to Egypt was going on a Sunrise Camel Ride and Giza Pyramid Tour on our first full day in Egypt.
Sunrises are always a great way to start the day and get that early serotonin boost but watching it in the desert aboard a camel with the iconic Giza Pyramids in the background takes things to the next level.
Another huge plus to the tour is that we were only of the first people to enter the Giza Pyramid Complex right when they opened so we could enjoy the sights and take plenty of photos without the huge crowds in the background.
Having the unique opportunity to ride a camel is one thing, but doing so over sand dunes with the pyramids and sunrise visible in the distance is the perfect balance of cultural immersion and natural beauty.
7) Pack Insect Repellent
Toiletries often packed include sunscreen, toothpaste etc. but a huge one that people miss when visiting Egypt is insect repellent. Essential for staying comfortable when near the River Nile and, in particular during the warmer months of the year, repellent will be your best friend on your Egyptian adventure.
8) Watch your Step
Watch your step When exploring through ancient temples and tombs, make sure to take your time and watch your step to avoid a vacation injury. As they’re thousands of years old, a lot of the historic sites that you visit will have uneven floors and divots, which can easily lead to a rolled ankle. So when your eyes are busy absorbing the fascinatingly details of the temple walls, be sure to stay mindful where you are walking and glance down regularly.
I personally learned this the hard way, when i twisted my ankle on the uneven ground as I was taking in the sites of Edfu Temple. This happened on my 3 day Nile River Cruise from Aswan to Luxor and I was lucky that after the temple visit, I was able to relax the rest of the day of the boat so it did not disrupt my trip too much.
I was very fortunate that it was nothing worse than a sprain, but afterwards, I was very careful to watch where I was stepping and only wear comfortable sneakers when visiting the temples and historic sites,
9) Get your Visa Ahead of Time
Upon arrival in the airport, you will need to buy your tourist visa at the designated kiosks before reaching passport control, and the process is not as easy as you’d think. Firstly, credit/debit cards are usually not accepted when buying your visa due to the card machines often being out of service. Paying by cash in US Dollar ($30) is the most straight forward method to go with and British Pound or Euro are usually accepted too, but you will not be able to use Egyptian Pounds. However, let’s say you use a $100 bill to buy your visa, you can receive your change in Egyptian Pounds, and this serves as a convenient way of getting your hands on some cash straight off the bat that you will need later.