General Information for All Travellers
Please note that this information is to be used as a guide only as we take no responsibility for any inaccuracies or wrong assertions. It is advised that you also receive your own information through further research.
Negotiating Prices:
Negotiating prices on items and services can be a daunting experience as many merchants will negotiate a rate, then look for a higher price when you come to pay. This is particularly common with Taxis. If you do make any independent bookings on your own with Hotels etc. please ensure you have full written confirmations.
If travelling with an escorted Tour be sure to ask your guide for advice on buying. Check for quality and of course the final price you pay is your decision.
What to wear:
In order to respect the culture it is recommended that you not wear anything sleeveless, (either for male or female), no short shorts, and no see-through clothing. Conservative clothing is the preferred wearing apparel. No head coverings are required for the Churches or Mosques but you will be given a cloak or wrap to wear if you are showing your legs or arms. Ladies please note you will get unwanted attention from men if you wear figure hugging clothing, halter tops etc.
Electricity:
Electricity supply is 220V AC 50 Hz. Wall plugs are round, two pin European type (though for some strange reason the socket holes are often too narrow to accept European plugs). Adaptor plugs are easily found in travel shops airports but bring a transformer if you need one as these are hard to obtain in Egypt.
Health information
Water:
Although the water is treated, it does contain chemicals that your body will not be used to, and these chemicals won’t disappear with boiling. So please be cautious with all drinks and food that may contain water, i.e. Coffee, Tea, Ice, etc. Bottled water is available everywhere, the Baraka brand does have a mild laxative effective. You can also purchase a filter water bottle to take with you from most Department Stores.
Drinks:
Please note drinks are NOT included with any meals in Egypt, this includes Water and Soft Drinks. Coffee or Tea are served with Breakfast but all other drinks must be paid for. It is important to check the prices of drinks before you order, especially any alcoholic drinks which can work out expensive.
Food:
Rice, Pasta, Beans, Salads, Chicken, Fish, Lamb, Pickled Veggies, Pita Bread and the local dips are just some of the regular foods served. The Cruise Ships and large Hotels serve a wide variety of European and North American style foods as well, and there are numerous choices of restaurants particularly in Cairo.
Vegetarians can readily be accommodated as most of the meals are buffet style, and have a wide variety or salads, vegetables, fruits, pastas and rice. Although there are no vegetarian restaurants as such most restaurants will try to accommodate your requests.
Take the usual precautions with meat and fish ensuring it is well cooked and heated, and remove peel from any vegetables or fruits.
If you should run into problems the pharmacies carry products that we have found work extremely well and are superior to anything I was able to purchase in North America. It is advisable to take and carry imodium around with you.
No immunisations or special Health precautions are normally required for Egypt but it does not hurt to get the latest information from your local travel clinic.
Lunches tend to be full meals like dinners and the prices range from $8 US to $30 US depending on the restaurants chosen, and the 5 star hotels of course are a little higher priced. The average lunch or dinner without drinks is $10-$15 US. Unless a meal package is purchased Hotel meals tend to be more expensive than local restaurants.
Medical Emergencies:
If you should have a medical emergency our agent will do their best to assist in getting the appropriate service required, pharmacy, doctor or hospital etc. If our agent is not around the Hotel staff will usually know how to assist you to get the service.
Please note - It is essential that you keep the original receipts for any medications or services if you are to claim them through your medical insurance on your return. Many times the Insurance insists on originals. You are responsible for ensuring you have whatever information or documentation you require for claiming on your insurance, our agent will assist while you are in Egypt to make sure you obtain what you require. However it is next to impossible for us to get this information for you after your departure. If our agents are required to run around obtaining information for you after departure you will be charged for their services.
Please note as per our Tour Conditions there are no refunds for unused services or meals you are not able to take for medical reasons etc. We highly recommend that Travel/Medical Insurance be purchased prior to your departure.
Cancellation/Dental/Baggage/Medical Insurance:
We advise that you take out cancellation insurance to cover the tour non-refundable costs should you have to cancel for medical or other qualifying reasons. Of course it is always advisable to carry medical insurance in another country, evacuation, as general medical expenses can run extremely high.
Visa requirements:
One to 3 Month Visas can be purchased on arrival at the Airport from most countries. Approx. $15-$20 US for a one month Visa. You will need to have your money ready to go to the Bank on arrival. They will sell you two stamps to place in your passport on a blank page before going through customs.
Weather Information
Go prepared:
Imodium, Sunglasses, Sunscreen, Repellent, a Hat, and Antihistaminic if you are susceptible to any allergies. If carrying any prescription medication, please make sure to carry it in your hand-luggage.
Average Temperatures:
| Month | Celsius | Fahrenheit |
| January | 18 | 65 |
| February | 21 | 69 |
| March | 24 | 75 |
| April | 34 | 93 |
| May | 33 | 91 |
| June | 35 | 95 |
| July | 37 | 98 |
| August | 35 | 95 |
| September | 32 | 90 |
| October | 30 | 86 |
| November | 26 | 78 |
| December | 20 | 68 |
Transportation information
Rental Cars:
Although rental cars are available we would not advise renting a car, traffic is congested, and the rules of the road are very different, with drivers waving hand signals, honking horns to communicate. Parking is very difficult and sometimes impossible particularly in the cities. Far better to rent a vehicle with a driver, then come and go as you please.
Taxis:
Most are basic and few utilize the meter system. Make sure they know were you want to go, and negotiate a price before departure. The prices will be reasonable, but if you have agreed a price, pay the driver and walk away on arrival as he is likely to ask for more.
Street Vans:
Utilized extensively by the locals 50 piastas per trip, a different experience.
Buses:
Street buses are a basic, but a cheap means of getting around for locals. Buses between cities are of a higher standard, and have washrooms and a waitress service onboard for longer trips.
Trains:
On day trains it is well worth paying the extra for First Class, still very reasonably priced. The seats are comfortable, reclining, almost like flying first class on a plane but not quite as clean. There is a trolley wait service for snacks, sandwiches and drinks. The washrooms are either end of the cabins but have a lot to be desired for cleanliness.
The night sleeper trains are managed by Carlson Wagonlit (now Abella Egypt) and are quite comfortable. Beds are one up and one down bunk beds. Adjoining carriages are available for families. An adequate dinner and breakfast are served directly to the cabin as part of the price. Drinks with the meals are not included other than coffee with breakfast. There is a wash sink in each cabin, toilets at the end of each carriage. Luggage is stored overhead in your cabin.
Expect to tip the cabin attendant, and anyone carrying your luggage as the guide will not be with you to take care of these. Always a good idea to have 1LE bills on hand for small tips.
Private Cars and Vans with Drivers:
Probably the best way to travel around, you usually pay a daily rate, but the driver will wait or return for you while you visit museums etc. Make sure you deal with a reputable company, and consider using a guide otherwise at each site you visit the site guides (local unlicensed guides or vendors) will walk along with you. Even if you have told them you don’t want their services they are very persistent and continue to point things out and then expect you to pay them at the end.
Metro:
In Cairo: Efficient, well organized, and runs to a strict timetable, well worth using if the train goes to areas where you want to travel.
Nile Water Buses:
Fast and cheap for crossing the Nile or going to the areas closer to the river either west or east bank, like Cairo University, Zoo, Ramses Hilton Hotel, Down town, Egyptian Museum.
Geography and Maps
Egypt has a unique location in the middle of the world, centered between the East and West occupying the North East corner of Africa. Here the Suez Canal connects Asia with Europe and onto America.
In Egypt air (Egyptair) is the best way to transfer between cities (Cairo to Luxor/Sharm El Sheik/Hurghada/Aswan - one way flight average $150 US) average flight time approx. one hour.
The other alternative between Cairo and Luxor/Aswan is by First Class WagonLit sleeper train, with a sleeper cabin or flight style seating or by First Class Day Train - the price is considerably less by train than by flying.
Other options to Hurghada and Sharm El Sheik where there is no train service is a drive of 56 hours by Deluxe A/C Van/Car/Coach.
Cairo - Aswan:14 hours by train - one hour flight.
Cairo - Luxor:11 hours train - 45 Minutes flight.
Cairo - Hurghada 6 hours drive (no train available) - 45 minutes flight.
Cairo - Sharm:7 hours drive (no train available) - 50 minutes flight.
Cairo - Alexandria - 3 hours drive
Cairo - Suez Canal - 2 hours drive.
Cairo - St.Catherine - 6 hours drive.
Cairo - Fayoum - 90 minutes drive.
Luxor - Aswan - 4 hours drive or train.
Aswan - Abusimbel - 30 minutes flight or 4 hours drive.
Luxor - Abydos - 2 hours drive.
Luxor - Hurghada - 4 hours drive.
Comfort items to take with you
Please note as per security regulations any electrical equipment or prescription drugs should be carried in your hand luggage and not packed in your main suitcase.
A Travel Hairdryer - some Hotels have them but they are attached to the walls and usually only have one speed. There are small travel dryers that you can purchase that take up hardly any space in your luggage.
A Travel Iron - If you have clothes that need ironing it’s best to take a small travel iron with you as most Hotels offer an ironing service but not the iron itself. This of course takes time and laundry services can run expensive.
A Travel Kettle - Great if you like to have a coffee or tea before retiring. We found this item to be a blessing on numerous occasions.
A Water Bottle Carrier - You’ll find this a useful item as there is a tendency to carry a water bottle with you everywhere you go.
A Travel Water Filter - I found this to be indispensable, there are various types but obviously the smaller the better.
A Small Fold Up Holdall or Back Pack - For those one night occasions like on the night train or journey to Mt Sanai when you don’t want to be using your large suitcase.
Culture
Alcohol:
Egyptians in general do not drink, there are severe restrictions on the purchase of alcohol. Most Restaurants and tourist spots do serve alcoholic drinks, and if you have purchased duty free, you may drink it in your room. However, alcohol is not readily available to purchase by the bottle, and Alcoholic drinks can be expensive. You should check the price first before ordering, so there are no surprises.
Washrooms:
You would be wise to carry tissue with you at all times, as Egyptian public washrooms do not provide tissue. Most times there will be an attendant who will supply a napkin for drying your hands, but this is limited and tipping will be expected. The washrooms utilize a water tap for cleaning, usually at the back of the toilet. Take care when using it the first time. Try to carry 1 LE or 50 Piasta notes for washrooms, both male and female will be required to pay.
Banking Services:
Egypt is a cash community. ATM Machines, cashing money on a credit card, or changing Travelers Checks are accessible at major Hotels. The US Dollar as the International Currency is well received almost anywhere. Credit cards are limited to major Hotels, upscale Stores and Restaurants, and Travelers Checks are difficult to change outside of a major Hotel and a number of banks.
It is advisable not to change money at the Airport as the exchange rate and service charges may not be competitive with the banks. And in the meantime carry some small US bills as they are accepted everywhere.
Hotel Standards:
The star rating program in Egypt cannot be compared to North America and Australia. They have a different system. North American Hotels are inspected regularly but this is not the case in Egypt, they tend to get issued a star rating on opening and 20 years later they probably have the same rating although no upgrades may have been done to the Hotel.
Therefore a new 4 star could rate higher than an old 5 star. Some 5 star Hotels are totally unacceptable by our standards. Our Tour Operators try to identify the best Hotels in each category 3/4 star (Tourist) or 4/5 star (First Class/Deluxe) by quality and service and not necessarily based on the actual star the property carries.
The Hotels utilized are clean and of a good standard, both in quality and service. If you should run into any problems with your room or the Hotel or its service it is essential that you bring it to the immediate attention of the Tour Operator or if travelling independently the Hotel itself (the best way is to go directly to the assistant manager usually located in the main lobby of a 5 stars hotel). They will deal with any issues and change your room or Hotel if necessary.
We are often asked what is the difference between 3*/4*/5* star Hotels.
3*Star - Tourist - clean hotel with no frills, private bathroom, mainly Egyptian family owned.
4* Star - Superior Tourist - more amenities than the 3* like restaurants and pools. Some Egyptian owned some Western management Chain Hotels like the Novotel in Luxor.
5* Star - First Class - Major Chain hotels in Cairo i.e. Hilton, Meridien, Sheraton either on the Nile or by the Pyramid. In Hurghada these are major resorts overlooking the water with private beaches and lots of facilities and large swimming pools.
Cruise ships: - Use only 4*/5* Star Cruise ships. All cabins are outside cabins with private facilities.
Note: It is not possible to deal with Hotel issues on your return as they are prepaid and once you have left they are not about to issue any refunds, especially if your concerns where not brought to their attention while you where staying with them.
Baksheesh (Tips or Gratuities):
In Egypt tipping (or Baksheesh) is a general practice everywhere (even among the Egyptians themselves) and ensures extra services at monuments, museums etc. It can be a hassle and become irritating, but it is part of the lifestyle in Egypt. It’s best if you don’t require the services to refuse politely but firmly.
If you have a guide with you, check with them beforehand where tipping is expected. The Guide normally takes care of any baksheesh at the sites, and for included meals etc. However, you should carry 1LE notes for occasional tipping for luggage, housekeeping, washrooms, when purchasing drinks and other incidental services.
It is customary to tip Guide and Drivers at the end of the time with them approx. $2-$4 US per day for the driver and $3-$5 US per day for the guide - these are per person, the same for cabin service and waiters on the Cruise Ships. The best way is to use an envelope, and put in the tip with a little note if appropriate and hand it to them in person at the end of their service.
Note: The above are guidelines on tipping, and it should be noted that although tipping is customary and expected it is at your discretion and it is entirely up to you how much you tip and whether to tip or not.
If you want to take something to hand out to the kids when appropriate Pens or Candy are very popular. If someone asks you for the loan of a pen don’t expect to get it back. So don’t lend any good pens. Remember if you give out pens or candy to one child there will be 10 others come out of nowhere within seconds looking to get one from you.
Drugs:
Drugs are strictly prohibited and the consequences for use can be very severe. Don’t even consider it.
Crime:
Crime is low, rape rare, Aids is almost non existent, arguments may flare up over a traffic violation, but are usually over quite quickly. Family feuds are more common then any form of crime. It is safe to walk the streets at any time of day, like all cities you should be cautious and attentive to your whereabouts.
Smoking:
Smoking is quite prevalent, although it is banned in all food restaurants. If you are a smoker yourself you might want to try smoking the water pipe (Shesha) in one of the many street cafes.
Customs & Culture:
The population is made up of mainly Moslems and Coptic Christians. The main day of worship is Fridays, which is their weekend holiday. Government offices, Institutions, and Banks close Fridays and Saturdays.
The food is varied, chicken and lamb are popular, as is rice, pasta, beans and Pita bread. Tea (Shai) is the main drink of the Egyptians, and is served frequently with mint. Vegetarians should have no problem as many of the meals are buffet style and serve numerous salad and vegetable dishes, along with rice and pastas.
Egyptians keep themselves and their homes very clean. Litter is a problem, particularly in the poorer areas where solid waste disposal is lacking. The noise level in parts of the Cities is quite high, and Cairo in particular is a 24 hour city when most stores and activities go on around the clock non-stop.
It is common form of greeting to see men or women holding hands, linking arms, and embracing on the cheek with others of the same sex. This is their culture and there are no sexual overtures to it. Men and women do not show affection to each other in public. It is acceptable to hold, or link arms with your partner in public, but that is it. To be on the safe side, and so as not to offend, it is best to follow what you see, Kissing and hugging your partner or boy/girl friend is not appropriate in public.
Shopping:
Don’t expect to see Supermarkets and Department stores. They have a couple of Malls with boutique style stores, but no Department stores that could be compared to Europe or North America. They do have Metro and Sainsbury’s grocery stores but in general these are the equivalent of our corner stores, not the large Supermarkets we are used to. Street Markets, food carts and small stores are everywhere, and the normal way of shopping in Egypt.
Unique Shopping items:
Gold Cartouche’s with your name in Hieroglyphics.
Papyrus Pictures - again you can have your name put on.
T-Shirts in Egyptian Cotton with Egyptian Logos or names in Hieroglyphics.
Handmade Carpets and wall-hangings.
Egyptian Cotton items.
Alabaster Carvings.
Unique Perfume Essences - These are wonderful but before leaving the store check your perfume is what you purchased. Some unscrupulous retailers have been known to substitute clear oil for the perfume, then wrap it for you to take home - you may not find this out until you arrive home and unwrap the package, so please insist on checking them as they wrap - if you pay by credit card you have a come back on them.
Note: Check over any purchases carefully, ask your guide for advice but the final price and quality of any articles you purchase are your own responsibility.
Communications
Telephone, Cellphones and Internet Cafes:
The Telephone system in Egypt is overloaded and antiquated. 4/5 Star Hotels will have direct line dialling and international service. Some hotels have data ports and even their own Internet Cafes, or you can hook up your laptop directly to the phone if you have an ISP service you can use.
Calling cards through an International Operator (AT & T etc) or credit cards can be used for calling. They do have calling cards available for sale everywhere to be used in the local call boxes, which are usually two different types. Directions may not always be in English.
Internet Cafes There are many Internet Cafes in all the major cities - Cairo/Luxor/Aswan/Alexandria/Hurghada - many of the 5 star Hotels also have them. They usually range from $3 to $6 US an hour, with a minimum 15 minute charge. However, the ISP’s are not as reliable and it is sometimes difficult to get on particularly in the evening, and it’s not unusual to get booted off particularly Thursday through Saturdays their weekend..
Cellphones are everywhere in Egypt, it has one of the highest usages for cellphones in the world, which makes sense as their Telephone system can’t keep up with the regular phone requirements. They have international cellphone service, and it covers just about everywhere, even the most remote areas. Outgoing calls are quite expensive, but in most cases there is no charge for incoming calls. If renting independently, check all the charges ahead of time.
Cellphone Rental Service:
In order for passengers to be able to stay in touch with home there are cellphone rental services for around $4 US per day for incoming calls only. This allows you to give anyone at home your cellphone number in advance to call you directly at any time day or night, at no additional charge over the $4 US per day to you. They will of course pay for an international call, but it will be at your home rates. This service is NOT set up for outbound calls. It is ideal for those at home to call you in case of emergencies, or just to keep you up to date with things at home.
Miscellaneous
Upgrades or Additional Services:
We try to take care of as much as possible of your expenses prior to your tour so there are no hidden costs. However if you should wish to upgrade Hotels or change from Train or Van to Flights or partake in any optional tours, or if we provide services like films and batteries, water, medications or other items you request through our agent these services or items must be paid for at the time or prior to the service being provided. Please remember if upgrading to a flight instead of an overnight sleeper train, the price quoted for the upgrade reflects the Hotel accommodations, with breakfast, taxes and transfers for that night as well as the flight.
If you aren’t sure of a price for a service or item, please clarify with the agent who will be happy to provide you with the price or approx. cost if the exact price is not known. You can then make your decision as to whether you use the service before payment is required.
Refunds:
Please note as per our Tour Conditions there are no refunds for unused services or meals you choose not to take or are not able to take for medical reasons etc. We highly recommend that Travel/Medical Insurance be purchased prior to your departure.
Baggage Delays:
Sometimes if a connection has been missed, or due to bad weather during your journey, baggage gets delayed. Most airlines supply a cash amount upfront on arrival so you can purchase toiletries etc. They are also responsible for getting the luggage to you once it arrives.
However, in order for you to enjoy your tour and sightseeing and not worry about calling airlines etc. we have our agents track it for you. Once it is found and delivered to the airport, depending where you are, it is sometimes quicker to send our agent and van to pick it up and deliver it to your Hotel to save further delays. We do this as a service to save you further distress, and ask you to remember that if you have any concerns with the delay or the condition of your luggage you should contact the airline directly. Please remember this is a service we are providing to try to ease your distress and although we do understand your frustration it is not appropriate to take it out on our agent.
Animals:
In Egypt, Camels, Donkeys and Horses play a major role in the livelihood of many people. These animals consequently are usually very well cared for and in most cases are treated like family members. Once in a while as with anywhere this may not be the case, and if you find yourself being asked to take a carriage ride or horse/camel ride etc. and you aren’t comfortable with the way the animal is treated, please bring it to the attention of the guide so he can find you an alternative.
Tips for all Travelers
- Do not expect to find things precisely as they are at home, as you have left home to find things different.
- Do not take anything too seriously for a carefree mind is the cornerstone of a good vacation.
- Do not let other tourists get on your nerves for you are paying good money to enjoy yourself.
- Do not worry or you will have little joy. Contact your Tour representatives and let them worry for you.
- Do not judge all of a country by one bad person or one bad experience.
- Blessed are those who are patient for they enjoy themselves.
- When in Rome (or anywhere else) do only somewhat as the natives do. Remember you come from a different climate and routine.
- Treat your hosts with respect and you will be received as honored guests.
- Ensure you carry a valid passport when entering and exiting a Country. Keep in a safe place at all times, it is said that a person without ID is a person in distress.
- Pack half as many clothes as you need and take twice as much money as you plan on spending.