The Ultimate Egypt Travel Cheat Sheet for 2025: A Local’s Secrets

Introduction: Why Egypt Captured My Heart

I still remember my first night in Cairo, standing on a hotel balcony overlooking the Nile, completely overwhelmed by the symphony of car horns, prayer calls, and music floating through the warm desert air. That chaotic yet magnetic energy has pulled me back to Egypt twelve times over the past decade. Each visit reveals new layers of this remarkable country, where ancient wonders stand alongside modern realities. The Egypt I’ve come to know—beyond the postcard images of pyramids and temples—is a place of extraordinary hospitality, complex challenges, and unforgettable experiences.

This cheat sheet distills everything I wish I’d known before my first trip, plus all the hard-earned wisdom from subsequent visits. Whether you’re planning your Egyptian adventure for next month or next year, consider this your essential insider guide to navigating the Land of the Pharaohs in 2025.

Essential Travel Information for Egypt

Visa Requirements (Updated for 2025)

Most visitors need a visa to enter Egypt. As of 2025, there are three main options:

• E-Visa: Apply online through the official e-visa portal at least 7 days before travel. Single-entry costs $25 and multiple-entry is $60. This is what I always use now—so much easier than the old days!
• Visa-on-arrival: Available at Cairo International Airport for $25 (cash only in USD, EUR, or GBP). Lines can be long, especially when multiple flights arrive simultaneously.
• Embassy visa: Apply at your nearest Egyptian embassy or consulate if you need special visa types.

Health and Vaccination Requirements

No mandatory vaccinations are required for entry to Egypt in 2025, but the following are recommended:

• Hepatitis A & B
• Typhoid
• Tetanus
• COVID-19 (while no longer required, still advised)

Travel insurance with good medical coverage is absolutely essential. I learned this the hard way during my third visit when I caught a nasty stomach bug in Luxor and needed IV fluids at a private clinic—the bill came to around $300.

COVID-19 Updates for 2025

As of 2025, Egypt has lifted most pandemic-related restrictions. However, check the U.S. Embassy in Egypt website for the latest guidelines before your trip. Some major tourist sites still maintain capacity controls introduced during the pandemic, which actually creates a much better visiting experience—especially at popular tombs in the Valley of the Kings.

Understanding Egyptian Culture & Etiquette

Dress Code Essentials

Egypt is predominantly Muslim, and modest dress is appreciated, especially outside tourist resorts. As a general rule:

• Women: Cover shoulders and knees in public areas. Bring a light scarf to cover your head when visiting mosques. In upscale areas of Cairo like Zamalek or at international hotels, dress codes are more relaxed.
• Men: Long pants are recommended in cities and religious sites, though shorts are acceptable in beach areas and tourist sites.

During my second visit, I made the mistake of wearing a tank top while walking through a non-touristy neighborhood in Cairo. The uncomfortable stares I received made me duck into a shop to buy a lightweight scarf to cover up. Now I always pack loose linen shirts with sleeves—they’re modest and keep you cooler in the heat than exposing skin.

Essential Arabic Phrases

English	Arabic	Pronunciation
Hello	السلام عليكم	As-salaam alaikum
Thank you	شكرا	Shukran
Please	من فضلك	Min fadlak
No thanks	لا شكرا	La shukran
How much?	بكام	Bekam
Too expensive!	غالي أوي	Ghaly awi

Learning “la shukran” (no thank you) and saying it with a smile has saved me from countless persistent vendors. Just those two simple words, delivered politely but firmly, work wonders.

Social Customs and Religious Considerations

Egypt’s social fabric is deeply traditional. Here are some important customs to be aware of:

• Ramadan: If your visit falls during Ramadan (varies annually), be respectful by not eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. Most restaurants in tourist areas will still serve food, but may be screened off from public view.
• Public affection: Keep physical contact between couples minimal in public spaces.
• Photography: Always ask before photographing locals, especially women. Many government buildings and some museum exhibits prohibit photography.
• Right hand usage: Use your right hand for eating, accepting gifts, or handing items to others. The left hand is traditionally considered unclean.

“Egyptians have a concept called ‘karam‘ (generosity) that’s central to their identity. If you’re invited to someone’s home, expect to be overwhelmed with food and hospitality. It’s polite to bring a small gift like quality sweets or fresh fruit.”

Navigating Safety and Common Scams

General Safety Tips

Egypt is generally safe for tourists, especially in major destinations, but standard travel precautions apply:

• Register with your country’s embassy upon arrival
• Avoid isolated areas after dark, particularly for solo female travelers
• Keep photocopies of your passport and store digital copies securely
• Use hotel safes for valuables and excess cash
• Be extra vigilant around major tourist sites where pickpockets operate

I’ve always felt physically safe in Egypt, but I’m constantly vigilant about protecting my belongings, especially in crowded places like Khan el-Khalili bazaar or the Egyptian Museum.

Top 5 Scams to Avoid

1. The “free” guide: Someone offers to show you around a site for “free” but later demands payment or leads you to commission-based shops. I fell for this at the Pyramids on my first visit and ended up in a papyrus shop where I overpaid for mediocre souvenirs.
2. The “closed” attraction: A local tells you your intended destination is closed but offers to take you somewhere “better” instead. I’ve had people tell me the entrance to the Pyramids was closed when I could literally see tourists entering!
3. Camel/horse ride pricing: Always agree on the total price and duration before mounting. Specify that the price includes return to your starting point. Get it in writing if possible.
4. Taxi meter “malfunction”: Always agree on a fare before entering a taxi, or insist the meter works. Uber and Careem are reliable alternatives in major cities.
5. Baksheesh demands: Officials or guards may request “tips” for services that should be free, like taking photos in certain areas of temples (where photography is actually permitted).

Female Travelers: What to Know

As a female traveler who has visited Egypt both solo and with companions, I’ve learned important strategies:

• Verbal harassment happens but is usually harmless—ignoring it is most effective
• Dress modestly to reduce unwanted attention
• Consider booking female guides for some excursions (Egypt Female Guides is excellent)
• In crowded public transport, sit next to other women when possible
• Wear a wedding ring (real or fake) to reduce unwanted advances
• Be confident and walk purposefully, even if you’re lost

Transportation Guide: Getting Around Egypt

Domestic Flights

For longer distances (Cairo to Luxor/Aswan, Cairo to Sharm El-Sheikh), domestic flights save significant time. EgyptAir and Nile Air operate regular services. Book early for best prices—I’ve seen Cairo to Luxor flights jump from $80 to $200 when booked last minute.

In 2025, the new Cairo International Airport Terminal 4 has finally opened, making domestic connections much smoother.

Trains in Egypt

The train system connects most major cities along the Nile:

• Cairo to Alexandria: Quick (2.5 hours) and comfortable. First-class tickets cost around 125 EGP ($4).
• Cairo to Luxor/Aswan: Overnight sleeper trains are operated by Watania Sleeping Trains. Two-berth cabins cost around $80-100 per person, including dinner and breakfast. Book at least a week ahead during high season.
• Day trains: Significantly cheaper but less comfortable for long journeys. First-class air-conditioned cars are acceptable for shorter trips.

The overnight train from Cairo to Luxor remains one of my favorite Egyptian experiences. Falling asleep to the gentle rocking of the train and waking up to sunrise over sugarcane fields is magical—though don’t expect luxury accommodations.

Getting Around Cities

Cairo

• Metro: Clean, efficient, and incredibly cheap (5 EGP per ride). The women-only cars are a blessing during rush hour.
• Uber/Careem: My preferred option for comfort and transparent pricing. A 30-minute ride typically costs 80-150 EGP ($2.50-5).
• Taxis: White taxis have meters, older black-and-white taxis require haggling.
• City bus: Challenging without Arabic knowledge but extremely affordable.

Luxor

• Ferry: 5 EGP to cross between East and West Banks of the Nile.
• Bicycle: Popular on the West Bank. Rentals cost around 50-80 EGP ($1.50-2.50) per day.
• Taxis: No meters, so negotiate before entering. A ride around the East Bank should cost 30-50 EGP.

Must-See Attractions & Hidden Gems

The Classic Sites

These iconic attractions are must-visits, but I’ll share how to experience them better than most tourists:

Giza Pyramid Complex

The last standing wonder of the ancient world deserves at least half a day. Entrance fee in 2025: 360 EGP ($11.50) plus extra for entering the pyramids.

• When to go: Arrive at 8am when gates open or after 2pm when tour groups leave
• Worth the extra cost: Entering Khufu’s Pyramid (400 EGP extra) is worth it for the experience of climbing through the ancient structure, though not if you’re claustrophobic
• Skip: The Solar Boat Museum is currently closed for relocation to the new Grand Egyptian Museum

After three visits, I’ve found the perfect viewing spot away from crowds: walk about 10 minutes into the desert from the Sphinx toward the Marriott Mena House for a stunning panorama of all three pyramids without another tourist in your photos.

Luxor’s Temples and Tombs

Luxor deserves at least 3 days to properly explore. Key sites include:

• East Bank: Karnak Temple Complex (entrance: 220 EGP), Luxor Temple (180 EGP)
• West Bank: Valley of the Kings (260 EGP for entry plus 3 tombs), Temple of Hatshepsut (140 EGP)

For the Valley of the Kings, the newly opened tomb of Tutankhamun (requires separate 300 EGP ticket) now displays the actual mummy and is far less crowded since they instituted a visitor cap in 2023. The tomb of Seti I (additional 1000 EGP) has the most spectacular paintings I’ve ever seen—worth every piaster of the expensive ticket.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Treasures

Dahshur’s Pyramids

Just 40km south of Cairo lies Dahshur, home to the Red Pyramid and Bent Pyramid. With entrance fees of just 100 EGP ($3) and virtually no crowds, you can explore pyramids that are older than Giza’s in peaceful solitude. You can even enter the Red Pyramid with no additional charge—I had it completely to myself for 15 minutes during my last visit!

Al-Azhar Park, Cairo

This beautiful 30-hectare park provides a peaceful escape from Cairo’s chaos with stunning views over the historic Islamic district. Entry costs just 20 EGP for Egyptians and 90 EGP for foreigners. The hilltop restaurant Citadel View offers excellent Egyptian cuisine with panoramic views of the Citadel of Saladin.

Dendera Temple Complex

About 60km north of Luxor, Dendera Temple houses some of Egypt’s best-preserved ancient artwork, including famously vibrant ceiling paintings recently restored to their original colors. The 2023 opening of the rooftop sanctuary to visitors provides a perspective few tourists experienced before. Entrance fee: 180 EGP.

Egyptian Cuisine: What to Eat & Where

Must-Try Egyptian Dishes

Egyptian cuisine blends Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and North African influences:

• Koshari: Egypt’s national dish—a hearty mix of rice, lentils, macaroni, chickpeas, and fried onions topped with spicy tomato sauce. Try it at Abou Tarek in downtown Cairo (25-35 EGP/$0.80-1.10 per serving).
• Ful medames: Slow-cooked fava beans seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, and cumin. The breakfast of champions and usually costs around 5-15 EGP ($0.15-0.50) from street vendors.
• Molokhia: A green soup made from jute leaves, typically served with rabbit or chicken. My favorite comfort food after a long day of sightseeing.
• Hamamsi: Tiny fried fish served with tahini dip—perfect Nile-side eating in Aswan.
• Om Ali: A delicious bread pudding dessert with nuts, coconut, and raisins. The best I’ve ever had was at El Fishawi cafe in Khan el-Khalili.

Where Locals Actually Eat

Cairo

• Kebdet El Prince: In Imbaba district, serves the best liver and traditional Egyptian dishes. Meal for two costs around 200-300 EGP ($6.50-10).
• Felfela: Downtown institution for reliable Egyptian classics at reasonable prices.
• El Gahsh: In Dokki, known for superb kofta and kebabs. No alcohol served.

Luxor

• Sofra: Located in an old house in Luxor city with traditional seating and excellent homestyle Egyptian food.
• Al-Sahaby Lane: Rooftop restaurant with Nile views and consistently good Egyptian standards.

Dining Etiquette and Tips

• Breakfast is typically 7-10am, lunch 2-4pm, and dinner often after 8pm
• During Ramadan, many restaurants close during daylight hours
• Tipping (called “baksheesh”) is expected—10-15% is standard
• Alcohol is available in tourist restaurants and hotels but not in local establishments

Accommodation Guide: Where to Stay

Cairo Neighborhoods

The neighborhood you choose significantly impacts your experience:

• Zamalek: Upscale island district with leafy streets, boutiques, and cafes. Great for longer stays. Mid-range hotels from $60-100/night.
• Downtown: Central location with colonial architecture, budget options, and local energy. Budget hotels from $25-50/night.
• Giza: Stay near the pyramids for early morning access, but far from central Cairo. Pyramid-view rooms at the Marriott Mena House start at $200 but are worth every penny for the surreal breakfast view.
• New Cairo/5th Settlement: Modern district with international chains and shopping malls. Less character but more amenities.

Nile Cruises: Worth It in 2025?

After experiencing multiple Nile cruises, I can confirm they’re still worth it in 2025, despite price increases. A 3-night Luxor to Aswan cruise ranges from $300 (basic) to $1000+ (luxury) per person. Benefits include:

• Seeing temples that are difficult to reach independently
• Unpacking once while visiting multiple sites
• Experiencing the Nile as ancient Egyptians did

Book through a reputable agent like Memphis Tours or directly with companies like Sonesta or Mövenpick. January-February is peak season with highest prices; May-September offers deals but extreme heat.

I found that the 5-star standard is more like an international 4-star, so adjust expectations accordingly. My best experience was on the Sanctuary Sun Boat IV, which justifies its premium price with smaller guest numbers and exceptional guides.

Budget-Friendly Options

• Hostels: Cairo’s hostel scene has improved dramatically. Dahab Hostel offers dormitory beds from $10 and private rooms from $25 with a lovely roof terrace.
• Airbnb: Particularly good value in Cairo and Alexandria, with entire apartments from $30-50/night.
• Nile view hotels in Aswan: Aswan offers the best value for Nile views. The Cleopatra Hotel has basic but clean rooms with stunning balcony views for around $40/night.

Packing Essentials for Egypt

Climate-Specific Items

Egypt’s climate varies significantly by region and season:

Season	Cairo Temps (°C)	Luxor/Aswan Temps (°C)	What to Pack
Winter (Dec-Feb)	9-18°C	10-25°C	Layers, light jacket, warm clothes for desert nights
Spring (Mar-May)	15-32°C	18-40°C	Lightweight, breathable clothes, sun protection
Summer (Jun-Aug)	22-35°C	25-45°C	Lightest cotton clothing, serious sun protection
Fall (Sep-Nov)	18-30°C	20-35°C	Lightweight clothes, light layers for evenings

My Essential Packing List

1. Modest, lightweight clothing: Linen pants and long-sleeved shirts that protect from sun while respecting local culture
2. Quality sunglasses: Desert glare is intense
3. Comfortable walking shoes: Archaeological sites have uneven surfaces
4. Small backpack: For daily essentials while exploring
5. Reusable water bottle: Reduce plastic waste and stay hydrated
6. Toilet paper/wet wipes: Not always available in public restrooms
7. Stomach remedies: Activated charcoal, probiotics, and anti-diarrheal medication
8. Power adapter: Egypt uses the European two-pin socket (Type C)
9. Small gifts: For guides or locals who help you (pens, small souvenirs from your country)
10. Neck wallet or money belt: For securing valuables in crowded areas

What Not to Bring

• Drones: Strictly prohibited and will be confiscated at customs
• Revealing clothing: Shorts above the knee and sleeveless tops are inappropriate outside beach resorts
• Unnecessary valuables: Leave expensive jewelry at home
• Egyptian currency: Better exchange rates are available in Egypt than abroad

During one summer trip to Abu Simbel, the mercury hit 46°C (115°F). I was grateful for my wide-brimmed hat, cooling towel, and insulated water bottle. The latter kept ice water cold for hours while others were drinking hot water from plastic bottles that had been sitting in the sun.

Money Matters & Budgeting

Currency and Payment Methods

The Egyptian pound (EGP) has experienced significant inflation. As of 2025, the exchange rate is approximately 31 EGP to 1 USD, making Egypt quite affordable for foreign visitors. Some tips:

• ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas (daily withdrawal limits around 3000-5000 EGP)
• Notify your bank before traveling to prevent card blocks
• Major hotels, restaurants, and shops accept credit cards, but carry cash for smaller establishments
• Exchange money at banks or official exchange offices rather than hotels
• Keep small denominations handy for tipping and small purchases

I’ve found that CIB (Commercial International Bank) ATMs typically offer the best rates and lowest fees for foreign card withdrawals.

Tipping Guide (Baksheesh)

Tipping is deeply ingrained in Egyptian culture and supplements low wages:

• Hotel housekeeping: 20-30 EGP per night
• Porters/bellhops: 20 EGP per bag
• Bathroom attendants: 5-10 EGP
• Taxi drivers: Round up fare or add 10%
• Restaurants: 10-15% (check if service charge is already included)
• Tour guides: 100-200 EGP per day for group tours, more for private guides

My system is to keep a separate pocket with small bills (5, 10, and 20 EGP notes) specifically for tipping. This prevents awkwardly digging through wallets or purses when tipping moments arise.

Sample Budgets

Budget Traveler (per day)

• Hostel/budget hotel: 250-500 EGP ($8-16)
• Street food/budget restaurants: 150-300 EGP ($5-10)
• Public transportation: 20-50 EGP ($0.65-1.60)
• Entrance fees (averaging): 200 EGP ($6.50)
• Miscellaneous: 100 EGP ($3.25)
• Total: ~700-1150 EGP ($22-37) per day

Mid-range Traveler (per day)

• 3-star hotel: 800-1500 EGP ($25-48)
• Restaurant meals: 400-800 EGP ($13-26)
• Taxis/private transport: 200-400 EGP ($6.50-13)
• Entrance fees + local guide: 500 EGP ($16)
• Miscellaneous: 300 EGP ($10)
• Total: ~2200-3500 EGP ($70-113) per day

Luxury Traveler (per day)

• 5-star hotel: 2500-6000 EGP ($80-194)
• Fine dining: 1000-2000 EGP ($32-65)
• Private driver: 1000-1500 EGP ($32-48)
• Private guides & premium access: 1500 EGP ($48)
• Shopping/miscellaneous: 1000 EGP ($32)
• Total: ~7000-12000 EGP ($225-387) per day

Bargaining Like a Pro

Where to Bargain (and Where Not To)

Bargaining is expected in:

• Markets and bazaars
• Independent souvenir shops
• Taxis without meters
• Camel/horse rides at tourist sites

Don’t bargain in:

• Fixed-price shops (often marked with signs)
• Supermarkets and department stores
• Government-run shops
• Restaurants and cafes

Bargaining Strategy

1. Do market research: Visit several stalls before buying to learn the price range
2. Start at 30-40% of the initial asking price
3. Be friendly but firm: Bargaining is a social activity, not confrontational
4. Walk away if necessary: Often the vendor will call you back with a better offer
5. Bundle purchases for better deals: “If I buy two scarves and a statue, what’s your best price?”

I once spent 30 delightful minutes bargaining for a hand-carved alabaster vase in Luxor, starting from 1200 EGP down to 350 EGP, complete with tea and conversation about our families. The shopkeeper seemed to enjoy the exchange as much as I did—it’s part of the culture.

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Action Plan for Egypt 2025

After a dozen trips spanning over a decade, I’ve learned that Egypt rewards preparation but demands flexibility. Here’s my 5-step action plan for your upcoming Egyptian adventure:

1. Prioritize and plan: Egypt has thousands of years of history—you can’t see it all. Choose your must-see sites and build your itinerary around them. For first-timers, I recommend Cairo (3 days), Luxor (3 days), and Aswan (2 days) as a minimum.
2. Book strategic accommodations: Stay within walking distance of key attractions when possible. A Nile-view room in Luxor or Aswan is worth the extra cost, as is a pyramid-view room in Giza.
3. Arrange key logistics in advance: Pre-book airport transfers, overnight trains, and popular guided tours, especially during high season (October-April).
4. Pack for cultural sensitivity: Bring clothing that respects local customs while keeping you comfortable in Egypt’s climate. This simple preparation enhances interactions with locals.
5. Budget for baksheesh: Set aside a specific amount (roughly $5-10 per day) just for tipping. Having this mentally allocated in advance prevents frustration with the tipping culture.

Perhaps the most important advice I can offer is to approach Egypt with patience and a sense of humor. Things rarely run exactly on schedule, tourism sites can be chaotic, and cultural differences may occasionally challenge your comfort zone. But these are precisely the elements that make Egypt so fascinating and rewarding.

When I think back on my many Egyptian adventures, it’s not the perfectly executed days I remember most fondly—it’s the unexpected conversations with locals, the wrong turns that led to hidden gems, and the moments of awe when standing before monuments that have survived millennia. Egypt has a way of teaching us to embrace unpredictability and find joy in the journey itself.

Yalla! (Let’s go!) Egypt awaits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Egypt safe for tourists in 2025?

Yes, Egypt is generally safe for tourists, especially in established tourist areas. The Egyptian government heavily prioritizes tourist safety with visible security at major attractions and hotels. Like anywhere, maintain awareness of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas, and follow local guidance. The most common issues tourists face are petty scams and occasional stomach illness, not security threats.

What’s the best time of year to visit Egypt?

October through April offers the most comfortable temperatures. December and January are peak tourist season with optimal weather but larger crowds and higher prices. My personal favorite is November or February—still pleasant temperatures but slightly fewer tourists. Summer (June-August) brings extreme heat in Upper Egypt (Luxor/Aswan), with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C (104°F), making sightseeing challenging.

Do I need a visa to visit Egypt?

Most visitors need a visa. Many nationalities can obtain an e-visa online before travel or a visa-on-arrival at Egyptian airports for $25 USD. Check the official e-visa portal for your specific nationality’s requirements. The process has become significantly more streamlined in recent years.

Is it worth visiting the new Grand Egyptian Museum?

Absolutely! After years of delays, the Grand Egyptian Museum near the Giza Pyramids is finally fully operational in 2025. Housing over 100,000 artifacts, including the complete Tutankhamun collection, it’s the largest archaeological museum in the world. The museum’s proximity to the pyramids makes it easy to combine both in a single day. Pre-book tickets online to avoid potentially long queues.

What should female travelers wear in Egypt?

Women should dress modestly outside of beach resorts, covering shoulders and knees. Loose-fitting pants, long skirts, and tops with sleeves are ideal. A light scarf is useful for additional coverage when needed, particularly when visiting mosques. In upscale neighborhoods of Cairo and tourist resorts, dress codes are more relaxed, but respecting local customs generally results in a more positive experience.

How much should I budget for a trip to Egypt?

Egypt can accommodate virtually any budget. Backpackers can get by on $30-40 per day, mid-range travelers should budget $70-120 per day, and luxury experiences start from $200+ daily. These estimates include accommodation, meals, local transportation, and entrance fees. Special experiences like hot air balloon rides in Luxor ($80-120) or diving in the Red Sea ($40-60 per dive) would be additional.

Is it better to book tours in advance or upon arrival?

For major highlights like pyramid interior access, Nile cruises, and hot air balloon rides, booking in advance is recommended, especially during high season. For day tours and local experiences, you can often find better prices by booking upon arrival. I typically pre-book my accommodation, transportation between cities, and any “must-do” experiences, then arrange everything else once I arrive.

How bad is the harassment of tourists?

Persistent vendors and touts are common at major tourist sites, which some visitors find overwhelming. However, a firm “la shukran” (no thank you) usually suffices. Physical harassment is rare. Female travelers may experience more attention, primarily verbal, but this has notably improved in tourist areas since the government began regulating vendor behavior more strictly in recent years.

References & Additional Resources

• Egyptian Tourism Authority – Official government tourism website with updated information
• U.S. Department of State – Egypt Travel Advisory – Current safety information and advisories
• Lonely Planet Egypt – Comprehensive travel information and updates
• Egyptian Streets – English-language news site with cultural insights and current events
• Cairo Top Tours – Local tour operator with detailed information about sites and experiences
• Semiramis InterContinental Cairo – One of my recommended hotels with excellent Nile views
• Marsam Hotel – My favorite West Bank Luxor accommodation, family-run with incredible location
• Nile Cruise Experts – Comprehensive information on Nile cruise options
• Digital Nomad Guide to Cairo – Excellent resource for longer-term visitors with co-working space information
• Cooking in Cairo – Blog with authentic Egyptian recipes and food culture
• Ancient Egypt Online – Detailed historical information about archaeological sites
• Expats in Cairo Facebook Group – Community forum with local insights and current information