Weather Egypt has a warm to hot climate with cool nights, and two seasons: winter (November to April) and summer (May to October). Average temperatures in winter are 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit, and in summer, they are 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit. There may be sandstorms in some areas during March and April.
What to wear Egypt is generally a conservative country and has a very warm climate. Dressing for modesty and comfort is encouraged, especially in big cities like Cairo and the city centers in Luxor and Aswan. Although the dress code at tourist sites tends to be relaxed, we recommend that women avoid revealing clothes such as short shorts and short skirts to avoid attracting unwanted attention or offending the locals. It is best to wear short sleeved t-shirts, capri pants or skirts that cover the knee. We suggest bringing clothes made of cotton, a wide brimmed hat to cover your face and back of your neck. Sunglasses and a light shawl or scarf are also valuable accessories for your trip. If you have two pairs of comfortable (broken in, not brand new) walking shoes, take both pairs. We also suggest bringing a pair of swim shoes, a swimsuit, cover-up, and at least one smart casual outfit for dinners and evening outings. Packing to dress in layers is another way to prepare for a variety of weather conditions. Finally, remember that the countries visited on this tour are casual, and comfort should dictate your wardrobe for the tour. We highly suggest that you bring travel-sized personal toiletries as those available locally may not be the brands you prefer. Be sure to bring insect repellant, high SPF sunscreen, after sun lotion, common drugs and vitamins you normally take as well as extra batteries and chargers for your electronic devices as these may not be readily available in the places visited on this tour. We also suggest bringing close-toed shoes as the streets are dusty and to protect your toes from the hot sand on the sites along the Nile. Small packs of tissues or wipes will also come in handy at rest stops, as toilet paper is not always available. Remember to pack medications in your carry-on bag.
Tipping When traveling through Egypt, you will be accompanied by dedicated professionals who aim to make your tour a memorable one. They take great pride in showing foreign visitors their country. If you are satisfied with the service provided by your guide, driver, and other associates during your tour, we suggest that you consider leaving a tip as a gesture of appreciation. Tipping is a personal and optional matter, and if you were not satisfied with the service, please adjust your tip accordingly.
Money & Credit Cards. The official currency in Egypt is the Egyptian pound. Hotels and some stores accept credit cards (Visa or MasterCard only). However, for “street shopping” you will need local currency or U.S. Dollars. Hotels, banks and foreign exchange bureaus will be able to exchange cash to local currency. We highly recommend that you bring along crisp, new bills. Old, torn, crumpled bills may not be accepted. Be sure to call your credit card providers to let them know you will be traveling abroad, the places you’ll be visiting and the dates of your trip. This is important for your own protection. For small purchases, we recommend that you use the ATM machines to get cash in local currency so that you can avoid using your credit card in unknown shops where there is a higher risk of having your credit card numbers “borrowed” for unauthorized purchases. Traveler’s checks are no longer widely accepted, so there is no need to bring them with you. * Always notify your bank prior to departure to avoid any problems using your credit or debit card while traveling.
Shopping You will have ample opportunity during your visit to Egypt to shop for souvenirs, including artwork, handicrafts and even jewelry. If you purchase such items, do so with the understanding that these items may not have the same high value you were led to believe. A good rule of thumb when shopping abroad is to choose items that you love and that will remind you of the destination. If you want to shop for high value items, better do so from a trusted merchant at home unless the pleasure of the happy memory of your trip will keep you from regretting your purchase. * While we take great care in arranging the components of your tour, we have no relationship with the shopping venues you’ll encounter, and we cannot be liable for any purchases you make. Your guides will no doubt have some favorite shopping places, where the vendors are known, provide good quality merchandise and probably pay some sort of commission from sales to the guide. This should not surprise or offend you, as this is how business is done throughout the Middle East and other regions around the world. Please keep in mind that many, if not most stores outside the U.S., will not allow exchanges or refunds for your purchased items.
Tips for Bargaining: Bargaining is a way of life in the Middle East. If you want to purchase something, whether in a shop or a souk (or bazaar) and you think the price you’ve been quoted is too high, thank the vendor and walk away. Generally, he/she will come after you with a lower price. It is usually considered good bargaining policy to offer half the asking price, and negotiate from there. Negotiations should be done in a respectful way.
Electricity & Power Adapters 220 volts. Plug C. You will need a voltage converter and plug adapter in order to use U.S. appliances. We recommend getting a universal adapter and converter kit.
Cell Phones & Internet Want to take your cell phone, tablet or laptop, but not sure how to get cell service or Wifi? Read up on using your cell phone abroad and the top 5 ways to get Internet abroad:
Photography is generally allowed, with the exception of certain areas such as airports and military bases. Cameras and video recording equipment are also allowed. Digital memory cards for cameras can be found in major cities.