Useful information for travelers to Egypt

Egypt is situated along the River Nile from the Mediterranean Sea to Sudan, including the eastern part of the Sahara Desert. It is one of the oldest civilizations of the world (more than 7000 years old). At the time of the old empires IV dynasty kings Cheops, Khufu and Mycerinus magnificent pyramids were built, one of the 7 Wonders of the ancient World, where for centuries the mysterious Sphinx guards. On the banks of major rivers of Africa, ancient monuments of the Nile shifts recorded civilization: the temple of Karnak, Valley of the Kings, the famous giant, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, Ramses tomb, the temple of Isis, and others. After many years of war and death, change of dynasties and rulers, Egypt became the most densely populated country of the Middle East. Today is one of the most visited destinations in the world where the trace of the past blends with the contemporary and modern. Golden beaches of the Red Sea treasures of coral reefs, vast deserts, deep sea miraculous beauty and luxury hotels meet the desires even of the most demanding tourists.

Before departure it is necessary to learn about all the conditions of travel and stay in Egypt. For entry to Egypt, for residents of certain countries can obtain the visa upon arrival, others must apply in the embassy. The price of Egyptian visa is 15 $ or 15EUR.

Practical advice: In order to ensure fast passage through customs terminal and avoid waste of time, tourists often get forms for the Egyptian visa in the plane. The data with which you fill in this form is: Name, family name, passport number and type, place of birth, nationality, place of stay in Egypt (hotel). Ask the flight attendant on board for this form.

Temperatures in Egypt are very high during summer but not unpleasant due to reduced humidity. There is almost no rain and the waves of cold weather occur in winter when the temperatures are about 20-25C, only the evening hours tourist need to warmer clothes.

Practical advice: Do not wear winter clothes during the journey. Be sure to bring a pair of sunglasses and a hat, do not leave without them. Do not be a slave of things, com to rest and enjoy, a few shirts and shorts will be enough to feel comfortable and relaxed stay. Egypt is one of the leading manufacturers of cotton in the world as clothes for major global brands are produced here. In stores you can find branded goods of high quality at very affordable prices.

Health care in Egypt is high. A number of private clinics that operate according to international standards, provide good health care for tourists.

Practical advice: It is necessary to consult with your tour operators on travel health insurance policies relating to your stay in Egypt. Price of this policy varies from country to country (approximately 15 $) but offers a complete health security during your stay in Egypt. Some banks and insurance companies provide free travel insurance for customers - ask about it.

Changing the environment can cause stomach problems, disorders of flora and lead to diarrhea. As Egyptians consume intestinal flora stabilizers abroad so it is necessary for some tourists in Egypt to do the same. The medicine ANTINAL can be bought in any pharmacy, it is nifuroxazide whose role is to protect foreigners from getting diarrhea (simple explanation). Before using consult your doctor or pharmacist. Price of these pills is about 1 $ / box. It is safe for children and pregnant women.

Tap water in Egypt is not for drinking. Use bottled water that is everywhere and always accessible to tourists. Price for 1,5 litre (1 bottle) is about 0.3$, but it depends from store to store.

Practical advice: Due to high temperatures it is necessary that visitors ALWAYS have a bottle of drinking water when leaving the hotel.

In Egypt, it is safe to buy food in supermarkets or eat it in most restaurants because the stored food is under rigorous control for hygiene and quality. Nevertheless, try to avoid  food that is easily spoilt because of high temperatures, something can always be missed. Most widespread markets are Abu Ashara Market, Spinneys, Metro…

Safety of tourists in Egypt is at a very high level. Basically, there are the official police forces, dressed in white uniforms in summer and black in winter, and they are in charge of global security. Tourist police has visible signs on left shoulders "Tourist Police", written in English and Arabic, and their main purpose is to provide security and protection for tourists. 

Practical advice: In general the Arab people are apt to trade. An Egyptian trader will try in every way satisfy the customer. This way, trade is often compared to aggressive but he just tries to prove his skills as the trader and this should not be seen as a compulsion to buy products.

In Egypt non working days are Friday and Saturday, but shops, bazaars, supermarkets, exchange ofices, etc. do work.

The basic unit of payment in Egypt is the Egyptian pound, with signs EGP (Egyptian pound) or L.E. (Livre Egyptian) which is the French word for the Egyptian pound. One pound consists of one hundred piaster. In circulation are banknotes and coins, as shown below.

Practical advice: Money should be changed at banks or authorized exchange offices. Receiving foreign currency is prohibited for Egyptians but it is not a problem as there are tourist exchange offices practically everywhere and are available for tourists.

Electricity is phase voltage 220V, but in hotels can be found 110v shore but only for the use of small consumers such as electric shaver battery or mobile phone. Wall connections are as shown beside. 

Practical advice: Hairdryers are most commonly offered at higher category hotels (4 and 5 star) so it is not necessary to bring it.

Hotels offer usage of large towels for sun loungers on the beach for free. This should be checked with the tour operators thus avoid carrying bulky towel on vacation. Also, the use of hotel beach chairs and umbrellas is not charged (it is free) unless stated otherwise.

Transportation within the travel arrangement is organized by the tour operator under the supervision of guides. Individual transport may be by regular bus routes or taxi where, as in all countries, special attention should be paid to the contracting price of taxi service.

Practical advice: Hotel staff can help with finding a taxi.

Driving side in Egypt is right.

Numbers in Egypt: