Egypt
Egypt is one of the most mysterious destinations on the planet, and it’s been on our bucket list for years! Between the Nile, the Red Sea, Alexandria, Cairo, and pyramids that date back to 2500 BC, there’s so much history and culture to experience.
Below you will find a guide to the country and comprehensive guides to all things Egypt.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Egypt is between October and April, when temperatures are cooler, but still pleasantly warm across the country. This makes exploring the busy streets of Cairo, visiting the Pyramids in the desert, and exploring ancient Pharaonic tombs more comfortable and enjoyable.
The summer season (May to September) is hot, although the high temperatures are alleviated by very dry air, air conditioning, far fewer visitors and lower prices. This means summer is still a viable season for your trip. There also tends to be a bit of a breeze on the Nile, making a river cruise a good choice during this period.
What To Expect
Capital: Cairo
Language: The official language of Egypt is Egyptian Arabic. ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in Egyptian: “salām ‘alaykum” and “shukrān”
Currency: The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). £1 GBP is equivalent to 22 EGP. Check the latest rates here
Credit Cards & ATMs: In Egypt, CASH IS KING, but you will find that many bars, restaurants, shops, and hotels will take major debit and credit cards. Some shops will have a sign near their entrance that tells you whether or not they accept foreign cards. If you’re looking to carry some cash during your visit, you can find many ATMs throughout big cities like Cairo and Alexandria.
Plugs: In Egypt, the power plugs are type C and F. The standard voltage is 220 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter
Safety: Egypt is a relatively safe place to visit, as long as you keep your wits about you and adhere to the local cultural customs. Egypt’s crime rates are low but be aware of scam artists and pickpockets which can be common. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is!
Random useful tip: The tap water in Egypt is heavily chlorinated and unsafe. It’s okay for brushing your teeth with, but don’t drink it. Buy bottled water. It’s easy to get and only costs 5 EGP (0.28 USD) for a 1-litre bottle.
Never ever: Don’t talk to people who approach you in public areas offering services like city tours, special visits to tombs, sites or shops…etc. It’s always safer to use registered tour operators and agents.
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in Egypt, reasons to visit Egypt, and how to travel Egypt on a budget.
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Top 5 Things to See and Do in Egypt
The Pyramids of Giza, standing majestically on the outskirts of Cairo, are the last of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The largest, the Great Pyramid of Khufu, is a staggering feat of ancient engineering, drawing visitors from all corners of the globe. Beside the pyramids, the enigmatic Sphinx, with its lion’s body and human head, holds centuries of secrets. While many come during the day, the evening light show, which illuminates these ancient structures, offers a unique perspective on their timeless splendour.
The Nile, the lifeblood of Egypt, offers a serene journey through the country’s history. Sailing on a traditional wooden felucca, visitors can drift along the river’s gentle currents, flanked by palm-fringed banks and ancient temples. As the sun sets, casting a golden hue over the waters, one is transported to the days of pharaohs and ancient civilisations. Whether it’s a short sunset cruise or a multi-day journey, sailing the Nile is an experience steeped in tranquillity and tradition.
Luxor, once the ancient city of Thebes, is an open-air museum of monumental proportions. The sprawling Karnak Temple complex, dedicated to the gods Amun, Mut, and Khonsu, boasts a forest of towering columns, obelisks, and sanctuaries. A short distance away, the Luxor Temple, illuminated beautifully at night, offers tales of pharaohs and gods carved in stone. Crossing the Nile to the Valley of the Kings, visitors can explore the intricately decorated tombs of Egypt’s most illustrious rulers.
Sharm El Sheikh, located on the Sinai Peninsula, is a paradise for underwater enthusiasts. The Red Sea’s crystal-clear waters unveil a kaleidoscope of corals, colourful fish, and marine life, making it one of the world’s premier diving destinations. Ras Mohammed National Park, with its vibrant reefs and shipwrecks, promises an aquatic adventure like no other. For those who prefer to stay on land, the desert landscape offers thrilling safaris, Bedouin dinners, and star-gazing excursions.
The historic heart of Cairo, known as Islamic Cairo, is a treasure trove of mosques, madrasas, and monuments. The 1,000-year-old Al-Azhar Mosque, with its graceful minarets and vast courtyard, stands as a testament to Islamic architecture. Nearby, the Khan El Khalili bazaar bustles with activity, as vendors peddle everything from spices and perfumes to handcrafted jewellery. Meandering through these narrow alleys, with the call to prayer echoing in the background, visitors are immersed in the rich tapestry of Cairo’s cultural and spiritual life.
Egypt Travel Costs
Accommodation
- Hostel Dorms – EGP 250–600 / €7–18 / £6–15 / $8–20
- Hostel Private Rooms – EGP 600–1,500 / €18–45 / £15–38 / $20–50
- Budget Hotels – EGP 800–2,000 / €24–60 / £20–50 / $26–65
- Airbnb Private Rooms – EGP 500–1,500 / €15–45 / £12–38 / $16–50
- Airbnb Apartments – EGP 1,800+ / €55+ / £45+ / $60+
- Campsites – EGP 150–400 / €4.50–12 / £4–10 / $5–13
Transportation
- Local Bus/Metro Ticket – EGP 5–15 / €0.15–0.45 / £0.10–0.40 / $0.15–0.50
- City Transport Day Pass – EGP 50–100 / €1.50–3 / £1.30–2.50 / $1.60–3.30
- Intercity Bus Ticket (Cairo to Luxor) – EGP 500–1,200 / €15–36 / £13–30 / $16–40
- Train Ticket (Cairo to Alexandria, one-way) – EGP 100–400 / €3–12 / £2.50–10 / $3.50–13
- Taxi (per km) – EGP 7–15 / €0.20–0.45 / £0.18–0.40 / $0.25–0.50
- Car Rental (per day) – EGP 1,200–3,000 / €36–90 / £30–75 / $40–100
Food
- Budget Meal – EGP 50–150 / €1.50–4.50 / £1.30–4 / $1.60–5
- Mid-Range Restaurant Meal – EGP 250–600 / €7–18 / £6–15 / $8–20
- Coffee – EGP 30–70 / €0.90–2 / £0.75–1.70 / $1–2.30
- Beer (0.5L local draft) – EGP 80–200 / €2.50–6.50 / £2–5.50 / $3–7
Activities
- Museum Entry (Egyptian Museum, Karnak Temple, etc.) – EGP 200–600 / €6–18 / £5–15 / $7–20
- Guided Tours (Pyramids, Luxor, etc.) – EGP 800–2,500 / €24–75 / £20–65 / $26–80
- Nile River Boat Tours (Cairo, Luxor, Aswan) – EGP 500–2,000 / €15–60 / £12–50 / $16–65
- Desert Safari or Camel Ride (Giza, Sinai, Siwa) – EGP 600–2,000 / €18–60 / £15–50 / $20–65
Egypt Suggested Budgets
Backpacker – EGP 800 / €24 / £20 / $26 Per Day
A backpacking budget in Egypt allows you to stay in hostel dorms, eat at local street food stalls, and use public transportation like metro and minibuses. You can explore historical sites like the Pyramids of Giza from the outside, visit free attractions like Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, and take affordable felucca boat rides on the Nile.
- If you plan to drink, add an extra EGP 100–200 (€3–6 / £2.50–5 / $3.50–7) per day.
- Save more by shopping at local markets, bargaining for souvenirs, and taking free or low-cost walking tours.
Midrange – EGP 2,000 / €60 / £50 / $65 Per Day
A mid-range budget allows for a private room in a budget hotel or Airbnb, dining at mid-range restaurants, and guided tours to famous sites like the Valley of the Kings and Abu Simbel.
- This budget also includes entry fees to historical landmarks, day trips to places like Alexandria or Fayoum, and short taxi rides for convenience.
- A perfect mix of comfort and affordability while enjoying Egypt’s rich history and culture.
Upscale – EGP 4,500+ / €140+ / £120+ / $150+ Per Day
A luxury budget ensures a stay in boutique hotels or high-end resorts in Cairo, Luxor, or the Red Sea resorts like Hurghada and Sharm El-Sheikh. You can dine at fine restaurants, indulge in private Nile cruises, and enjoy exclusive tours to iconic landmarks.
- This budget also covers seamless transportation with private drivers, luxury trains, or domestic flights between cities like Cairo and Luxor.
- Experience Egypt’s world-famous monuments, beaches, and cultural sites in the most comfortable and immersive way possible.
Egypt Money-Saving Tips
Egypt is a budget-friendly destination, but costs can add up quickly if you’re not careful. From historical landmarks to vibrant street markets, here’s how to stretch your budget while experiencing the best of Egypt:
1 – Bring a Reusable Water Bottle – Tap water in Egypt isn’t always safe to drink, so bring a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter to avoid buying bottled water daily and reduce plastic waste.
2 – Take Free Walking Tours – Cities like Cairo and Alexandria offer free walking tours where guides provide insights into local history and culture. Just remember to tip your guide as they rely on gratuities.
3 – Cook Your Own Meals – Eating out is affordable but can add up, so buy fresh produce from local markets and cook in your hostel or Airbnb to save money on food.
4 – Stay with Locals via Couchsurfing – Couchsurfing is a great way to get free accommodation while experiencing Egyptian hospitality firsthand. Your hosts may also share insider tips on budget-friendly attractions.
5 – Bunk in Hostels – Egypt has plenty of budget-friendly hostels from Hostelworld, especially in Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Dorm-style accommodations are a great way to meet fellow travelers and save on lodging costs. Use Booking.com for hotels etc.
6 – Walk Everywhere – Many areas in Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan are walkable. Exploring the streets on foot is not only cost-effective but also an immersive way to experience the local culture.
7 – Use Public Transportation – Skip expensive taxis and use Cairo’s metro (one of the cheapest in the world), local buses, and minibuses (microbuses) for intercity travel. A metro ride costs just EGP 5–15 (€0.15–0.45 / £0.10–0.40 / $0.15–0.50).
8 – Enjoy Free Outdoor Activities – Egypt is filled with amazing free experiences, from visiting the Khan el-Khalili bazaar in Cairo to watching the sunset over the Nile in Aswan.
9 – Travel Off-Season – The best time to visit on a budget is April-May or September-November, when hotel prices drop, tourist crowds are smaller, and tours are cheaper.
10 – Take Overnight Buses Instead of Flights – Egypt has affordable and comfortable overnight buses with companies like Go Bus and Blue Bus, which are cheaper than domestic flights and help you save on a night’s accommodation.
How to Get Around in Egypt
Egypt has a diverse and affordable transportation network, making it easy to travel between cities and explore its rich history. Whether you’re navigating Cairo’s bustling streets, cruising the Nile, or heading to the Red Sea, here’s how to get around efficiently.
Walking
Many areas in Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan are walkable, especially historic districts like Islamic Cairo, Luxor Temple, and the Nile Corniche. However, due to heat and heavy traffic, walking is not always the best option in larger cities.
Public Transportation
Egypt’s public transport is cheap and widely used, but can be chaotic for first-time visitors.
- Cairo Metro – The fastest way to get around Cairo, with fares ranging from EGP 5–15 / €0.15–0.45 / £0.10–0.40 / $0.15–0.50. Women-only carriages are available for added comfort.
- Microbuses & Local Buses – Extremely affordable but difficult for tourists to navigate due to a lack of clear schedules. Fares start at EGP 5–10 / €0.15–0.30 / £0.10–0.25 / $0.15–0.35.
- Tuk-tuks – Common in smaller towns and informal areas, but negotiate the price before hopping in.
Airport Transfers
- Cairo International Airport to City Centre – The cheapest option is an Uber or Careem, costing around EGP 200–400 / €6–12 / £5–10 / $7–13.
- Shuttle buses are also available, with fares starting at EGP 80–150 / €2.50–5 / £2–4.50 / $3–6.
- Taxis are expensive and require negotiation—always agree on the fare beforehand or insist on using the meter.
- Recommended Airport Transfer – Welcome Pickups
Taxis & Ride-Sharing
- Uber & Careem operate in Cairo, Alexandria, and Hurghada, offering safer and more affordable fares than regular taxis.
- Taxis start at EGP 7–15 / €0.20–0.45 / £0.18–0.40 / $0.25–0.50, but drivers often refuse to use meters, so be prepared to negotiate or use a ride-hailing app.
Buses & Intercity Travel
Egypt has a well-connected intercity bus network, with services operated by Go Bus, Blue Bus, and SuperJet.
- Cairo to Luxor – EGP 500–1,200 / €15–36 / £13–30 / $16–40 (10–12 hours).
- Cairo to Hurghada – EGP 400–900 / €12–27 / £10–22 / $13–30 (6–7 hours).
- Cairo to Alexandria – EGP 150–400 / €4.50–12 / £4–10 / $5–13 (3–4 hours).
Trains
- Sleeper Trains (Cairo to Luxor/Aswan) – These are comfortable but expensive, costing around EGP 1,200–2,500 / €36–75 / £30–65 / $40–80 for a private cabin.
- Regular Trains (Cairo to Alexandria) – A cheaper and comfortable option, costing EGP 100–400 / €3–12 / £2.50–10 / $3.50–13.
Car Rental
- Renting a car is not recommended in major cities due to aggressive driving and chaotic traffic, but can be useful for road trips to remote areas like Siwa Oasis. Prices start at EGP 1,200–3,000 / €36–90 / £30–75 / $40–100 per day.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for foreign drivers.
Nile River Transportation
- Feluccas (traditional sailboats) – A must-do experience in Luxor and Aswan, with short rides costing EGP 200–500 / €6–15 / £5–13 / $7–18.
- Public Ferries – Operate in Aswan and Luxor, costing EGP 5–20 / €0.15–0.60 / £0.10–0.50 / $0.15–0.70.
- Luxury Nile Cruises – Cairo to Aswan or Luxor cruises range from EGP 6,000–15,000 / €180–450 / £150–380 / $200–500 for multi-day trips.
Cycling
- Egypt is not very bike-friendly due to heavy traffic, but some places like Dahab, Luxor, and Siwa Oasis offer bike rentals for EGP 50–200 / €1.50–6 / £1.30–5 / $2–7 per day.
Egypt offers many transportation options for every budget. Whether you’re traveling by train, bus, or boat, knowing how to get around efficiently will enhance your experience.
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