Egypt Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Most nationalities can obtain an Egypt e-Visa online ($25) or Visa on Arrival at major airports ($25) — valid for 30 days, single entry. Citizens of 45+ countries including the US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia are eligible for Visa on Arrival. Apply online at visa2egypt.gov.eg to save time at the airport. Israel passport holders should use a separate passport if traveling on the same trip, as Egyptian border officials may deny entry.

Pyramids of Giza: $18 (outer complex), +$10 to enter the Great Pyramid. Egyptian Museum: $12, +$20 for the Mummy Hall. Valley of the Kings (Luxor): $15 entry, +$20 for Tutankhamun's tomb. Karnak Temple: $10. Philae Temple (Aswan): $12. Abu Simbel: $22. Hiring a licensed guide for each site adds $15–$25 — highly recommended for historical context that brings the sites alive.

Egypt's major tourist sites (Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Red Sea resorts) are generally safe with a high police presence in tourist areas. Avoid the Sinai Peninsula outside of Sharm el-Sheikh and Dahab due to ongoing security concerns in parts of the region. Petty scams targeting tourists are common — agree on taxi prices before getting in, don't follow strangers offering 'free tours,' and be aware of overcharging in tourist markets. Most travelers have positive, scam-free experiences with basic awareness.

Overnight train from Cairo to Luxor (10–12 hours, $20–$30 for comfortable sleeping compartment) is the most popular budget option — saves a night's accommodation. 1-hour flight ($50–$100 on EgyptAir, Air Arabia) is fastest. Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan (3–5 days, $300–$700 all-inclusive) is the classic tourist experience and includes all major sites between the two cities. The Cairo–Luxor road is not recommended for tourist travel independently.

Egypt is a conservative country — dress modestly outside beach resorts. Women should cover shoulders and knees in cities, souks, and religious sites; a light scarf for hair in mosques is appreciated but not always required. Men in shorts may attract attention in conservative areas but it's not prohibited. At Red Sea beach resorts (Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh) western swimwear is normal. At Abu Simbel and Luxor temples in summer (June–August) temperatures reach 45°C — wear lightweight loose layers and carry a hat and sunscreen.

Local koshari (Egypt's national dish — pasta, rice, lentils, tomato sauce) costs $0.50–$1 at dedicated koshari restaurants — one of the world's cheapest filling meals. Take overnight trains to save accommodation and enjoy air-conditioned travel. Hire guides through your hostel ($15–$20/day) not through hotel concierges (double the price). Visit the Pyramids from the Giza plateau edge at dusk — same view as inside the complex at zero cost. At Khan el-Khalili bazaar, start haggling at 25–30% of asking price.