Jurisdiction Guide

October to April is most pleasant, with cooler temperatures. Upper Egypt, like Luxor and Aswan, is much hotter in summer, while Cairo and the coast stay milder.

Cash is king, especially outside major cities, but bigger shops accept cards. Tipping, or 'baksheesh,' is common for nearly all services, keep small bills handy. Uber operates in Cairo and Alexandria, but taxis need negotiation elsewhere. Arabic is spoken everywhere; younger people often understand basic English. Prepaid SIM cards are cheap and widely sold at airports and stores.

Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and mosques, shoulders and knees covered for both sexes. Greet with 'Salam Alaikum' and shake hands if offered. Eating with your right hand is standard. Public displays of affection are frowned upon. During Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight.

Pickpocketing happens in busy areas and on public transport. Traffic is chaotic and accidents are common, so cross carefully and be alert if driving. Some touts at tourist sites can be persistent; a firm 'no, thank you' usually works. Tap water is not safe to drink, stick to bottled or filtered water.

Visit Siwa Oasis for ancient ruins and freshwater springs far from the crowds. The White Desert near Farafra features strange chalk rock formations, camping here feels otherworldly. In Cairo, El Moez Street provides a slice of old Islamic architecture away from the bus tour groups.

Many Western and Gulf country passport holders can get a 30-day visa on arrival at airports or apply online for an e-visa. Overland travelers should check specific entry points and requirements. Long-term visas or digital nomad options are not common, but renewals for regular tourist visas are sometimes possible through local police stations.

Long-distance trains connect Cairo with Alexandria, Luxor, and Aswan. Intercity buses cover most destinations, though comfort levels vary. Metro lines in Cairo reduce traffic headaches. Uber and Careem work well in bigger cities. Renting a car is possible but driving can be stressful for newcomers.

Try dishes like koshari (a mix of pasta, lentils, and rice), ful medames (mashed fava beans), and taameya (Egyptian falafel). Grilled meats are common, while vegetarian options are widely available in local cuisine. Tea and strong coffee are social staples, beer and wine can be found but are not widely advertised. Street food is cheap and tasty, but choose busy stalls and watch for food hygiene.

Backpackers can get by on $20–30 per day outside Cairo, while mid-range travelers spend $50–70. Cairo and the Red Sea resorts are pricier, with hotels costing much more. A basic local meal costs around $2–3, and a metro ride in Cairo is less than $0.50.