7 Things You Must Know Before Visiting Egypt
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Lifesaving tips before your trip to Egypt. Important information about visa procedures, bargaining, drinking water and choosing what to wear.
Things You Must Know Before Traveling to Egypt
Egypt is a country of extraordinary beauty, but its culture and way of life are quite different from those of Europe or Türkiye. To make your trip much more comfortable and stress-free, be sure to keep these 7 important details in mind before you go:
Preparing for Your Trip
1. Visa on Arrival (Sharm El Sheikh vs. Cairo)
Visa procedures vary depending on where you enter Egypt. If you are traveling only to the Sharm El Sheikh (Sinai Peninsula) region, Turkish citizens can obtain a free 15-day visa on arrival (Sinai Only stamp). However, if you plan to travel to areas such as Cairo, Luxor, or Hurghada, you will need an Egyptian visa, which you can obtain at the airport for 25 USD or in advance as an e-visa.
Local Culture and Communication
2. Bargaining Is a Way of Life
Shopkeepers in Egypt love to bargain. The first price quoted for a souvenir is usually 3-4 times its actual value! Don't hesitate to offer at least half, or even a third, of the initial asking price. Bargaining in a friendly and patient manner is all part of the process.
Health and Safety Precautions
3. Never Drink Tap Water
Tap water in Egypt is not suitable for tourists to drink. Be sure to drink bottled water throughout your trip. If you have a sensitive stomach, it is even advisable to use bottled water when brushing your teeth.
Practical Travel Tips
4. Choose Appropriate Clothing
You can comfortably wear bikinis and shorts in tourist areas (especially at hotels in Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada). However, when walking the streets of Cairo, visiting areas where locals live, or visiting mosques and temples, it is important to choose more conservative clothing (covering your shoulders and knees) out of respect for the culture and for your own comfort.
5. Plug and Electrical Compatibility
The sockets used in Egypt are 220V and exactly the same as the standard 2-pin (European-style) sockets used in Türkiye. You do not need to bring an extra plug adapter.
6. Carry Plenty of Small Change (Tipping Culture)
Tipping, known as “baksheesh,” is very common in Egypt. It is customary to tip small amounts to the bellhop carrying your luggage, restroom attendants, your guide, or taxi drivers. So be sure to carry plenty of $1 bills or small-denomination Egyptian pounds (EGP).
7. Don't Forget Sun Protection
Finding shade around temples (such as the Valley of the Kings or the Pyramids) is almost impossible. The Egyptian sun is intense. Be sure to bring high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and lightweight/cotton clothing.