Egypt Travel Tips & Complete Visitor Guide

Option A: Official e-Visa Portal

Apply online before departure through the official Egyptian Ministry of Interior portal. Your e-Visa will be issued electronically within 3 to 7 business days.

Option B: Visa on Arrival

Eligible passport holders can purchase a single-entry 30-day tourist visa stamp at bank kiosks located inside major airport arrival halls (Cairo, Luxor, Hurghada, Sharm) for $25 USD cash.

Sun Protection in Upper Egypt

In Luxor and Aswan, temperatures peak in the afternoon. All Etro Tours temple visits are scheduled during comfortable morning or sunset hours to avoid the midday sun.

Cool Winter Nights

Winter nights (December through February) in Cairo and on Nile cruise decks can drop to 10°C (50°F). Remember to pack a warm jacket or sweater for evening strolls.

Egyptian Pound (EGP / LE)

The official currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Foreign currencies like USD, EUR, and GBP are widely appreciated for major tours, tipping, and hotel bills, but local currency is best for small markets.

Cards vs Cash

Major credit cards (Visa & MasterCard) are accepted at hotels, high-end restaurants, and official ticket offices. Keep small cash notes for local markets, tipping, and restrooms.

Sightseeing at Temples & Pyramids

Wear comfortable, breathable cotton or linen clothing. Smart casual shirts, t-shirts, knee-length shorts, or lightweight trousers are ideal. Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are mandatory for unpaved archaeological sites.

Visiting Mosques & Religious Sites

Modest dress is required when entering active places of worship. Men should cover shoulders and knees. Women should wear loose clothes covering shoulders, chest, and knees, plus carry a light scarf for head coverage.

Red Sea Resorts & Nile Cruise Decks

Swimwear and shorts are completely fine around resort swimming pools, beaches, and Nile cruise sun decks. Smart casual wear is recommended for dinner inside cruise dining rooms.

Photography & Drone Etiquette

Photography with smartphones is free at almost all sites and museums. Professional cameras may require a small ticket. Note: Drones are strictly illegal in Egypt without prior military permits.

Choosing Your Cruise Itinerary

• 4 Nights (Luxor to Aswan): Covers Karnak, Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae Temple at a relaxed pace.
• 3 Nights (Aswan to Luxor): Ideal for travelers with tight schedules wanting key highlights.
• Dahabiya Sailing: Boutique 4-to-10 cabin luxury wooden sailing boats for an intimate, peaceful journey.

Meals & Daily Schedule

• Nile cruises include Full Board (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner served buffet or set menu style).
• Excursions usually take place in the early morning to avoid midday heat and maximize sailing time.
• Tea time is served on the sun deck daily while sailing between towns.

Drinking Water

Do not drink tap water in Egypt. Always use sealed bottled water or filtered water for drinking and brushing teeth. Etro Tours private vehicles carry cold bottled water for guests daily.

Tourist Safety & Security

Egypt is extremely safe for international tourists, solo female travelers, and families. Tourist police officers are stationed across all major monuments, hotels, and highways to guarantee peace of mind.

Local Food & Specialties

Egyptian cuisine is delicious and rich in flavor! Don’t miss trying Koshary, Taameya (Egyptian falafel), Molokhia, Grilled Kebabs, and fresh mango or sugarcane juices at vetted restaurants.

Personal Medication

Carry a small personal first-aid pouch with sunblock, lip balm, rehydration salts, antacids, motion sickness tabs for cruises, and any prescription medicine in original containers.