Know Before You Go

Most nationalities can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Cairo airport (tourist visa, 30 days) or request in advance through embassy. E-visas are available online (easygov.gov.eg) for most nationalities. Requirements: passport valid 6+ months, return ticket, accommodation proof. Processing at airport is typically same-day. Visa on arrival can also be obtained at other entry points but conditions vary.

Currency is Egyptian Pound (EGP). ATMs widely available in Cairo and tourist areas; withdrawal limits vary. Credit cards accepted at hotels and shops; exchange rates less favorable. Money chaners (sarrafs) are ubiquitous and offer better rates than banks or hotels. Cash is essential in markets and small shops. Haggling is expected in souks. No restrictions on bringing in foreign currency.

Major mobile providers: Vodafone Egypt, Orange, Etisalat. SIM cards available at airports and retail shops with ID/passport. 4G coverage excellent in Cairo, Alexandria, and tourist areas; less reliable in remote regions. Internet is widely available and reasonably fast in cities. Cafes with WiFi are common. Some political content and VPNs may be restricted or monitored.

Cairo metro is extensive, fast, and cheap. Local buses are chaotic but cheap; dedicated tourist coaches available. Inter-city buses and trains connect major towns; trains are slower but comfortable and culturally interesting. Taxis (both metered white and unmarked) are cheap; negotiate or use Uber/Careem apps. Domestic flights via EgyptAir and others connect cities. Felucca sailboats are iconic on the Nile; organized cruises range from budget to luxury.

Vaccinations recommended: Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Tetanus, MMR. Malaria risk in southern regions during warm months. Tap water in Cairo is treated but bottled water is safer; avoid ice. Medical facilities in Cairo are good; outside cities are more basic. Pharmacies are common and well-stocked. Travel insurance strongly recommended. Costs are very low compared to Western countries.

Arabic is the official language; Egyptian Arabic dialect is distinct and widely spoken. English is common in tourist areas and among younger people. French also understood. Greetings: 'As-salaam alaikum' is respectful. Islam is central; dress conservatively and respect prayer times, especially during Ramadan. Avoid criticism of government, military, or religion. Photography of military or security installations is strictly prohibited.

Best time: October to April. Summers are extremely hot and dusty; temperatures exceed 40C/104F. Nile Valley is best in winter (December-February). Ramadan affects dining hours and energy levels. Spring (March-May) can be windy and sandy. Alexandria and the coast are more pleasant in summer but crowded. Avoid traveling during political holidays or periods of civil unrest.

Cairo International (CAI) is Africa's busiest airport, served by every major global carrier plus EgyptAir, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and dozens of others. Luxor and Aswan have secondary airports for Upper Egypt access. Alexandria has maritime links to Greece, Cyprus, and Turkey. Overland from Sudan via Aswan; Israel via Taba; Libya and Tunisia across the Mediterranean coast route. Suez Canal ports (Port Said) have ferry links to Saudi Arabia.