First Time in Egypt – 8 Important Things to Know Before You Go

Egypt, the land of pyramids, rich culture, and many thrilling attractions, awaits you. If you have questions about when to travel, what to wear, or how to maximize your experience, this guide answers all your questions before visiting. So, leap right in, and let’s make your Egyptian trip one to remember.

I. When is The Best Time to Visit Egypt?

The best time to visit Egypt is in winter (October-February). During this season, the weather is perfect for sightseeing, with mild temperatures ranging from 18°C to 26°C. The cultural sites are vibrant, making the experience more enjoyable. However, be prepared for higher prices and crowds, especially at popular locations like the Pyramids and Luxor.

If you’re looking for alternatives, consider late spring (March-April) or early fall (September). These periods offer good weather and fewer tourists, but the temperatures can rise as the season progresses, especially in the south. While summer (May-August) offers cheaper travel, the heat can be intense, particularly in the southern regions, making outdoor activities less comfortable.

II. What to Pack for Egypt?

Packing well is important for a fun trip to Egypt. The mix of deserts, busy cities, and ancient sites means you must plan carefully. Be ready for the hot sun, crowded markets, and local customs. With this simple checklist, you’ll be ready for an amazing adventure!

Checklist:

1. Clothing

• Lightweight and breathable clothing (t-shirts, tank tops, long-sleeved shirts)
• Comfortable walking pants/trousers
• Shorts (for beach and pool time)
• Dressier outfit for evening events or dinner at a nice restaurant
• Undergarments and socks
• Warm layers for cooler winter months (December to February)
• Scarf or shawl for added modesty

Cultural sensitivity note: Egypt is conservative, so dress modestly. Avoid revealing clothes, especially in mosques or temples. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, while men should skip tank tops and shorts in public. A scarf or shawl can help add modesty when required.

2. Accessories

• Sunglasses
• Sun hat or umbrella
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sandals or flip-flops
• Power adapter for charging electronic devices
• Money belt or secure wallet
• Travel pillow and eye mask (for long bus rides or flights)

3. Health & Safety

• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
• Insect repellent
• First-aid kit (with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers)
• Prescription medication and any necessary documents
• Water bottle or hydration pack
• Travel insurance information

4. Electronics

• Smartphone and portable charger
• Laptop and portable charger (if necessary)
• Camera and charger
• Power bank for extra battery life
• Universal power adapter for charging electronic devices
• Waterproof phone case or bag

III. How Many Days Do You Need in Egypt?

Again, it is relative to your interests, pocket, and the traveling you want to undertake. Egypt is blessed with many historical and cultural sites and even more nature destinations, so make sure that you dedicate enough days to avoid wasting your time.

Think about what you would like to observe most – are you a great history lover, or do you wish to spend some time on the beach? Your must-see list will help determine how many days you need.

Here are some sample itineraries to help you plan:

5-Day Itinerary: Cairo and Luxor Highlights

• Day 1-2: Cairo (Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, Egyptian Museum)
• Day 3-5: Luxor (Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings)

This whirlwind tour hits the major highlights but be prepared for a fast pace. You’ll get a taste of Egypt’s most famous sites but it might feel rushed.

7-Day Itinerary: Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan

• Day 1-3: Cairo (add Islamic Cairo and Coptic Cairo)
• Day 4-5: Luxor (add hot air balloon ride, Luxor Museum)
• Day 6-7: Aswan (High Dam, Philae Temple, felucca ride on the Nile)

A week gives you more breathing room and allows you to explore beyond just the top tourist spots. You’ll have time to wander the markets and soak in the atmosphere.

10-Day Itinerary: Comprehensive Egypt Experience

• Day 1-3: Cairo
• Day 4-7: Nile Cruise (Luxor to Aswan, visiting temples along the way)
• Day 8: Abu Simbel day trip
• Day 9-10: Red Sea Resort (Hurghada or Sharm el-Sheikh)

This itinerary offers a mix of history and relaxation. The Nile cruise is a highlight for many visitors, and ending with some beach time lets you unwind after all the sightseeing.

So, how many days do you really need? If you’re a history buff who wants to see it all, aim for at least 10 days. This gives you time to explore in depth without exhaustion. If you’re more interested in hitting the highlights and maybe some beach time, 7 days could work. For a quick taste of Egypt’s wonders, you can squeeze the essentials into 5 days, but be prepared for a packed schedule.

IV. Best Things to Do Your First Time in Egypt

1. Marvel at the Pyramids of Giza

The Pyramids of Giza, with the Great Pyramid of Khufu, are the only remaining ancient marvels. Outside Cairo, this well-known location allows you to marvel at ancient Egypt’s structures and look at the Sphinx. Yes, it gets very busy, but you’ll agree that the vistas are stunning!

Practical Tips: Visit in the morning or afternoon when it is not very hot. The entrance fee also differs depending on the specific pyramid or tomb to be toured.

2. Explore the Egyptian Museum

Visit here to learn about the history of the ancient Egyptians. The museum contains more than 160,000 items, some of which are King Tutankhamun’s burial equipment. It provides a rather interesting view of the Pharaohs’ world.

Practical Tips: An organized tour is a better way to see the place because it will take you around while informing you of the exhibits you are passing through.

3. Cruise the Nile River

Traveling on the Nile River from Luxor to Aswan is one of the most important experiences in Egypt. You will sail past religious attractions like the Karnak and Luxor Temples and marvel at the beauty of the many well-crafted scenes.

Practical Tips: The weather is relatively cooler between October and April, which is the best time for Nile cruises. The duration of the cruises, which range from 3 to 7 days, is flexible.

4. Discover the Temples of Luxor

Luxor is the largest open-air museum in the world, and temples such as Karnak and Luxor are located there. Walk among colossal pillars, elaborate stucco, and statues that depict the history of Egypt as a great civilization.

Practical Tips: The heat makes it wise to start early in the morning. You can also pre-book for a guide to give you a detailed history of each place.

5. Visit the Abu Simbel Temples

These are great rock-constructed shrines for Ramses II; some of these engineering feats still baffle the modern world. The temple was hewn out of a rock face and transferred in the 1960s to avoid being washed by the Nile River.

Practical Tips: Regarding the weather, the best time to visit is during winter, from October to March. To avoid the large crowds, it is recommended that one take a morning flight from Aswan.

V. Getting to Egypt

Reaching Egypt is quite easy, with many international flights linking major cities to this interesting country. Most travelers come by plane, but some prefer to arrive by land or sea from nearby countries.

1. Major airports and airlines serving Egypt:

• Cairo International Airport (CAI): The primary gateway for most international travelers
• Hurghada International Airport (HRG): Serves the popular Red Sea resort area
• Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH): Another key entry point for beach destinations
• Luxor International Airport (LXR): Convenient for those exploring ancient sites in Upper Egypt

2. Airlines frequently flying to Egypt include:

• EgyptAir (the national carrier) 
• British Airways 
• Lufthansa 
• Emirates 
• Turkish Airlines 
• Air France

3. Egypt’s visa requirements:

It varies by nationality. Most visitors need a visa to enter the country. Many can get a 30-day tourist visa when they arrive at Egyptian airports. You can also apply for an e-visa online before your trip through the official Egyptian government website. Some travelers may have to get a visa in advance by visiting an Egyptian embassy or consulate.

To apply for an Egyptian visa, you’ll typically need:

• A valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity 
• A completed visa application form 
• Passport-sized photos 
• Proof of travel plans (like flight bookings or tour itineraries) 
• Visa fee payment

Remember, entry requirements can change, so it’s always a good idea to check with your country’s Egyptian embassy or consulate before you travel. Once you’ve sorted out the logistics, prepare for an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most fascinating countries!

VI. Best Way to Get Around Egypt

There are a lot of ways to get around Egypt: Domestic flights, Train, Bus, Car. Let’s see more details about each one in this table.

Mode of Transport	Key Features	Travel Time (Example Routes)	Cost
Domestic Flights	Fast and comfortable; connects major cities (e.g., Cairo to Luxor, Aswan)	About 1 hour (Cairo to Luxor or Aswan)	$40 to $220 (depending on booking time)
Train	Budget-friendly; scenic routes along the Nile Valley, Delta, and Canal Zone	10 hours (Cairo to Luxor)	$3 to $12
Bus	Popular with locals; reliable and safe; connects most cities and towns	5 hours (Cairo to Hurghada)	$3 to $30
Car Rental	Offers flexibility; explore at your own pace; be cautious of city traffic	Varies by route	$30 to $50 per day

Note: Each transport option has its ups and downs. Flights are quick but expensive, trains have great views but take longer, buses are cheap but crowded, and driving is freeing but can be stressful.

VII. Where is the Best Place to Stay in Egypt?

If you want to see the famous pyramids, Giza is the place to be. It’s just outside Cairo and within walking distance of the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx. The Marriott Mena House Hotel offers rooms with views of the pyramids.

For history lovers, Luxor is unbeatable. Known as the world’s largest open-air museum, it has amazing sites like the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple. The historic Sofitel Winter Palace is a lovely place to stay.

Beach fans should go to Hurghada on the Red Sea. It’s perfect for sunbathing, snorkeling, and diving, with clear waters and colorful coral reefs. The Oberoi Beach Resort Sahl Hasheesh offers luxury right by the beach.

For a romantic getaway, check out Aswan. It’s one of the most beautiful cities on the Nile, with stunning river views and attractions like Philae Temple. The Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan is a luxurious spot with great views.

For a unique experience, take a Nile River cruise. It lets you visit multiple places while enjoying great accommodations. The Sanctuary Sun Boat IV is a fantastic choice for a mix of luxury and adventure as you explore historic sites.

VIII. Apps, SIM Cards & Adapters

Staying connected during your Egyptian adventure is crucial for navigation, communication, and enhancing your overall travel experience. Here’s what you need to know about apps, SIM cards, and adapters for your trip to Egypt:

1. Useful Apps for Egypt

• Google Translate: For quick translations of Arabic 
• Maps.me: Offline maps for navigating without data 
• Uber: Popular ride-hailing app in major cities 
• XE Currency: For real-time currency conversion 
• Booking.com: Find and book accommodations easily 

2. SIM & eSIM

Getting a local SIM card in Egypt can be tricky for tourists, so I recommend purchasing an international Egypt SIM before your trip. You can find these online or at major electronics retailers.

For even more convenience, consider using an eSIM. This embedded SIM card allows you to connect to a local network without physically changing SIM cards.

When it comes to eSIM, 3 popular options are Airalo, Yesim, and egyptesim.com:

• Airalo has eSIM packages for Egypt starting at $7 for 1GB of data, valid for 7 days – great for short trips.
• Yesim offers unlimited data plans starting at $8.40 for 1 day and up to $97.20 for 30 days, ideal for heavy users.
• egyptesim.com offers plans made for travelers, starting at $6 for a 3-day eSIM, with options for up to 30 days. Enjoy instant delivery and easy setup, and keep your home number active while using data in Egypt.

All three options are reliable, but egyptesim.com appears to provide the best overall option, especially for those looking for a combination of affordability, flexibility, and convenience.

3. Power Adapters

Egypt uses two types of electrical outlets:

• Type C (European 2-pin)
• Type F (European 2-pin with side grounding contacts)

The standard voltage is 220V with a frequency of 50Hz. To ensure your devices work properly, bring a universal travel adapter with Type C and F plugs. You can find these at most travel stores, electronics shops, or online retailers like Amazon.

IX. FAQs

X. Conclusion

I hope you find these tips helpful as you plan your first trip to Egypt. From understanding the best times to visit, what to pack, and how to navigate the local customs, you’re now better prepared to enjoy this incredible country. Remember, Egypt is full of wonders waiting to be explored, so go with an open heart and embrace the adventure.