Questions & Answers about Egypt

Egypt has several international airports, with Cairo International Airport in Amman as the main airport. You can fly to Cairo Airport from South Africa with Egypt Air.

SA passport holders require a visa – this visa will be obtained on arrival and is FREE of charge. Most other nationalities will need to obtain a visa to enter Egypt. Getting a visa is relatively straightforward, and many nationalities are eligible for a visa on arrival or online.

The short answer is YES. Tourism is the lifeblood of Egypt and is protected after a long period of civil and political unrest decade. However, as per the advice for visiting other big cities worldwide, don't carry valuables or more cash than you need, and keep an eye out for pickpockets.

Except for the Mediterranean coast, the country experiences a desert climate, which is hot and dry most of the year, especially in the summer months (June to August), with the air temperature between 38°C and 41°C. The best time to travel to Egypt is during the winter, from September to April. The climate becomes a bit tropical, accompanied by a magical warm weather atmosphere with a winter breeze. The best time to visit the Red Sea is between June and September. Visibility is, on average, 30m throughout the year.

Egyptian Pounds (LE) note comes in denominations of 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, and 1. 

Estimated exchange rate: R1.00 = 1.18LE

Euros, Dollars, and Sterling are accepted as payment, but your budget will go much further if you change it to Egyptian pounds. The many currency exchange shops or banks are the best places to exchange money.

Egyptian culture revolves around tipping, which is expected of visitors and locals alike. A gratuity or "baksheesh" is a way of saying thank you for all types of services.  

A 10% tip is standard.

In restaurants, a 10% service charge is often added (check your bill).

For porters, 1-2 Egyptian Pounds per bag is expected.

Housekeeping staff at least 2 Egyptian Pounds per night, and the room service 2-5 Egyptian Pounds.

We will offer you a compressive guide to tipping in Egypt when you confirm your booking with us to take the hassle out of tipping.

The typical Egyptian foods you MUST try while travelling in Egypt are:

Aish Baladi is a fluffy pita-type bread crafted from 100 percent whole grains such as emmer wheat and barley.

Koshary (also kushari or koshari) is the national dish of Egypt. This hearty hodge-podge of lentils, chickpeas, rice, macaroni, tomato sauce and fried onions sates even the most voracious appetites.

Ful Mudammas is a classic breakfast dish and popular street food in Egypt that's eaten anytime.

Kabab wa kofta is sometimes called the meatloaf of Egypt. It's mainly lamb, beef, onion, garlic, spices, and fresh mint. Its ground meat formed into chunky oblong shapes and cooked on skewers.

Om Ali is a traditional bread pudding that originated in Egypt. It is made from phyllo dough, with ingredients like almonds, raisins, pistachios, coconut, milk and cream, then sprinkled with cinnamon and baked in the oven until golden brown.

Egypt's tap water is officially safe to drink but tastes heavily chlorinated. Drinking water from a tap is, however, not recommended. Instead, we recommend that you stick to drinking bottled water. It's essential to stay hydrated while travelling in Egypt, especially when you travel during the summer months!

The official language of Egypt is Arabic, but English is taught and widely spoken in Egypt.

Most Egyptians get excited when tourist speaks some Arabic words to them – take time before your trip and familiarise yourself with a few Arabic words.

Egypt is an excellent place for families with children to visit. The people are welcoming and very friendly, and there is a considerable amount to see and do. Spectacular ancient monuments, vast desert and golden beaches make Egypt an exciting destination.

Light fabrics like linen, cotton and athletic gear made to take the heat are best. While Egypt doesn't have a specific dress code, always try not to draw too much attention to ourselves, especially women, as it can lead to unwanted attention from men if you wear very revealing clothing.

Egypt is a Muslim country, and many locals abstain from alcohol. However, it is possible to find liquor stores in some bigger cities, and many hotels and resorts serve alcohol. Drinking alcohol in the street and anywhere other than in a licensed restaurant or bar is not allowed. 

Unlike some other Muslim countries, tourists in Egypt are still allowed to drink alcohol during Ramadan and can also enjoy restaurants, bars and nightlife. So, generally, Ramadan shouldn't significantly impact your vacation time in Egypt.

The weekend in Egypt is Fridays & Saturdays, but not all businesses are closed; only government offices and banks close on these two days, while most shops are open on Saturdays.