First time visiting Egypt? Here are 10 essential tips from experienced Egypt travelers — covering safety, transport, scams to avoid, and hidden gems.
## 1. Pre-Book Your Airport Transfer
The single biggest mistake tourists make is accepting unofficial taxi offers at the airport. Always pre-book a licensed private transfer — it's the same price or cheaper, infinitely safer, and stress-free.
## 2. Carry Small Denomination Bills
Many vendors, baksheesh (tip) situations, and minor purchases require small bills. Always carry 5, 10, and 20 EGP notes.
## 3. Dress Modestly at Religious Sites
Egypt is a conservative society. Women should carry a shawl to cover shoulders and knees when entering mosques or rural areas.
## 4. Bargain Everywhere (Except Fixed-Price Venues)
Souks, markets, and street vendors all expect negotiation. Start at 30-40% of the asking price.
## 5. Stay Hydrated
Cairo's heat can be intense. Drink at least 3 liters of water daily, and stick to bottled water.
## 6. Download Offline Maps
Internet access isn't guaranteed everywhere. Download Google Maps offline for Cairo and your key destinations.
## 7. Avoid Drinking Tap Water
Use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth. Restaurants that cater to tourists use filtered water for cooking.
## 8. Keep USD or EUR as Backup
EGP availability can fluctuate. Keep a small amount of USD or EUR as emergency backup currency.
## 9. Tip (Baksheesh) Generously
Tipping is a cultural norm, not optional. Hotel porters, tour guides, and drivers all rely on tips.
## 10. Book Intercity Travel in Advance
For routes like Cairo-Hurghada or Cairo-Sharm, book your private transfer at least 48 hours in advance to secure the best vehicle and driver.
The single biggest mistake tourists make is accepting unofficial taxi offers at the airport. Always pre-book a licensed private transfer — it's the same price or cheaper, infinitely safer, and stress-free.
## 2. Carry Small Denomination Bills
Many vendors, baksheesh (tip) situations, and minor purchases require small bills. Always carry 5, 10, and 20 EGP notes.
## 3. Dress Modestly at Religious Sites
Egypt is a conservative society. Women should carry a shawl to cover shoulders and knees when entering mosques or rural areas.
## 4. Bargain Everywhere (Except Fixed-Price Venues)
Souks, markets, and street vendors all expect negotiation. Start at 30-40% of the asking price.
## 5. Stay Hydrated
Cairo's heat can be intense. Drink at least 3 liters of water daily, and stick to bottled water.
## 6. Download Offline Maps
Internet access isn't guaranteed everywhere. Download Google Maps offline for Cairo and your key destinations.
## 7. Avoid Drinking Tap Water
Use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth. Restaurants that cater to tourists use filtered water for cooking.
## 8. Keep USD or EUR as Backup
EGP availability can fluctuate. Keep a small amount of USD or EUR as emergency backup currency.
## 9. Tip (Baksheesh) Generously
Tipping is a cultural norm, not optional. Hotel porters, tour guides, and drivers all rely on tips.
## 10. Book Intercity Travel in Advance
For routes like Cairo-Hurghada or Cairo-Sharm, book your private transfer at least 48 hours in advance to secure the best vehicle and driver.