faq

What modes of transportation are available?

Taxi - public and private. Public ones are different colors depending on the city. Cairo: black & white; Alexandria: navy blue & yellow; etc. There are also private companies that operate yellow cabs.
Bus - local and city to city
Metro (in Cairo); Tram (in Alexandria)
Microbus
Train
EgyptAir flights

What is the best way to get around?

For small journeys around town, getting a taxi is the easiest. Local public taxis are not regulated by any one company so the quality and condition of the vehicle is up to the driver. Some taxis are quite run down and old while others are very clean and new; the majority of them fall in the middle.
Keep in mind that meters are present, but not used. This leaves you with several options when is comes to paying your fare. One, agree on a price before you get in. Some drivers will try to get more at the end of your journey. If this happens exit the vehicle, hand the driver your money, and walk away. On occasion a driver will continue to hassle you; just continue walking. Two, if you do not agree on a price first (click here for a general guideline of fares) upon arrival to your destination exit the vehicle, hand the driver your money, and walk away. Three, if you are leaving from your hotel as the concierge to get a taxi for you. Generally they choose well maintained cars, can explain your destination to the driver, and arrange the price for you.
If you find a good taxi and have several stops to make, you may be able to hire him for the day. Do not pay him until the end of your trip. Remember to keep small bills with you for taxi journeys; drivers do not always have change and some may use that as an excuse for you to pay them more.

Can I rent a car and drive myself?

Car rental is available, but not advised,if you have an international driver's license.Driving in Egypt is chaotic, disorganized, and confusing for many newcomers. Lanes, although painted on the road, do not exist; traffic signals and street signs are ignored; the traffic police standing everywhere do very little to enforce traffic regulations; drivers themselves do not abide by the basic road rules and courtesies observed in the West. It is much better to remain a passenger during your stay.Just sit back, try to relax and enjoy your ride.

Will my mobile phone work in Egypt?

If you have an international phone with GSM network capabilities or a phone with a SIM card, yes your phone will work in Egypt. Upon arrival you will need to purchase a local SIM card and charge it. temporary/Tourist lines are available from MobiNil, Vodaphone, or Etisalat. A SIM card should cost between LE
*If you book through Memphis Tours Egypt, we will provide you with a complimentary mobile phone and local SIM card. (Note: this must be returned to your tour operator upon departure).

Are there public phones available?

Yes, you will see public phones from two companies along the street. One phone is light green from Menatel; the other phone is red from Telecom/Nile Telecom. Calling cards for both companies are readily available at any local shop.

Where can I find Internet access? Is it free?

Egypt is well equipped with Internet cafes around every corner and access is inexpensive (LE 2-5/hour).Many cafes also have printing, copying, and scanning capabilities for an extra fee.If you have your laptop with you free wi-fi can be found at many coffee shops.

What is the electricity output in Egypt?

Egypt is powered by 220 volts alternating at 50 cycles/second.

What type of converter will I need for my appliances?

Small appliances such as electric shavers, mobile phone chargers, and battery chargers will need a converter that accepts 220 volts at 50 Hertz.
Outlets are circular and two-pronged. Keep in mind that you may also need a plug adapter.

What are some tips for staying healthy during my trip?

Using common sense will help keep you healthy during your trip. As Egypt is generally very hot and dry,drinking plenty of fluids (especially water) throughout the day will help keep your system running smoothly. Even if you're not thirsty make sure to drink; it's very easy to get dehydrated. Avoid eating street foods until your system has had time to adjust properly.

Can I eat the fresh fruits and vegetables?

As a rule of thumb, anything you can peel is okay to eat. If you wish to try other products make sure to wash everything thoroughly first. When eating out you may want to avoid fresh salads for the first few days. Slowly introduce local products to your body and try things in moderation first. As a precaution, carry an anti-diarrhea medication with you at all times.

Is the tap water safe to drink? Is ice okay?

As a tourist, avoid drinking the tap water. Bottled water is plentiful and inexpensive. A large bottle (1.5 Liters) is less than LE 2.Tap water is fine for bathing, washing, and brushing your teeth.
If you order a drink that comes with ice, ask if the ice is made with bottled water. Most hotels and coffee shops do use bottled water, but ask to be sure.

Do I need to get any vaccines prior to my trip?

Entry to Egypt does not require you have any vaccines, but double check with your GP prior to travel to see what, if any, vaccines are recommended.

If I do get sick, where can I find the proper medication?

Any pharmacy will carry common OTC medications. No prescriptions are needed and pharmacists are trained in English. Simply describe your symptoms to the pharmacist and he/she will give you the proper medicine.Pharmacies are abundant and some are open 24/7.

What types of clothing items are recommended?

Generally, Egypt is a hot country where light colored, loose fitting clothing is recommended.However,Egypt does get cold at night and during the winter.Nighttime temperatures can drop to a cool (68 F/19 C) during the summer and cold (47 F/8 C) during the winter. In the winter clothing you can easily layer is best. Packing a light to medium coat will keep you warm when temperatures drop.

Should women dress conservatively?

Egypt is predominantly a Muslim country and a growing number of women choose to wear a head veil (known in Arabic as the higab). However, this does not mean foreigners must follow suit. Dressing in a more respectful manner rather than in a conservative one is perfectly fine. It is recommended that you wear shorts or skirts knee length or longer and cover your mid-drift and excess cleavage. These guidelines are for your own comfort. Women who dress in a more revealing manner tend to attract unwanted attention and in some cases men will try to touch or grab them in the street.

What is appropriate swimming attire?

At pools inside your hotel and in resort areas such as Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Ein Sokhna the people are accustomed to Western-style swim attire. You may still get a few looks here and there,but you won't get anyone gawking suspiciously.
If you're venturing to more remote areas such as the desert Oases the less you reveal, the better. In these remote areas women are advised to wear at minimum one-piece suits or a tshirt and shorts/capris.They should also avoid going to hot springs alone or while many locals are present.

When visiting mosques and churches, is there a dress code to follow?

While there is no specific dress code, women should cover their mid-drifts and shoulders and wear either a long skirt or capri pants.Men should also wear capri or full length pants.Inside a mosque,shoes must be removed by all individuals upon entry; keep this in mind if you're wearing open shoes and want to bring a pair of socks along.

Where are there good shopping areas?

Egypt has plenty of fascinating shopping areas to explore. If you're looking for a modern shopping experience, visit one of the many malls - Alexandria: Carrefour CityCentre, Green Plaza, or San Stefano Mall. Cairo: CityStars, Maadi Grand Mall, or Maadi CityCentre. You'll also find some great shops by just taking a walk around. If you're looking for a more traditional market experience visit an open air market.Khan El Khalili, in Cairo, is the oldest, most famous market in Egypt. You can find similar areas in Downtown Alexandria; Porto Sokhna, Ein El Sokhna; Naama Bay and Old Sharm, Sharm El Sheikh; Sheraton Street, Hurghada.

What typical Egyptian products will I be able to find?

Here is a list of products easily found throughout Egypt:
- Egyptian cotton linens & clothing
- handmade rugs, carpets, and wall tapestries
- hand-blown perfume bottles
- perfumes and oils
- papyrus paintings
- various statuettes
- alabaster
- scarves & shawls
- galabayas
- cartouches (these can be personalized)
- gold & silver jewelry

Are prices set or negotiable?

With the exception of stores with labeled prices, all things can be negotiated, especially in the markets. Typically vendors quote a price two to three times higher than the actual product value; this is the norm.
> Shopping Tips:
-Go in with a rough idea of how much you want to pay for an item and stick to it
-Bargain with the shopkeeper and have fun with it; if he absolutely refuses to lower his price thank him and walk away. You're more than likely to find the same thing just down the road.
-Keep your foreign currency separate and out of sight
-Try to carry small bills (LE 50 notes or lower). Some shopkeepers associate large bills with a large cash flow, making your final price high.
-Shop around first to see what's available and for what prices.
-Keep an eye on personal belongings such as wallets and handbags
-Many shopkeepers will try to engage you in conversation, some may offer you a drink as well. Feel free to entertain their conversation and just walk away if you begin to feel uncomfortable. As for accepting drinks, only do so if you're keen on making a purchase.
-Some shops will claim they sell antique items - so do, but many do not - when you hear this, be aware of it and do not buy into their higher prices.

Who am I expected to tip, and how much?

Tipping, known as "backsheesh" in Arabic, is generally given to individuals who preform a service. Here are some individuals who commonly receive tips: hotel concierge/bellhops, room service waiters, housekeeping, bathroom attendants, tour operators, etc. Tipping a waiter in a restaurant is not necessary, but is welcomed, because most places include service in the bill. A fair tip is anywhere between LE 1-10, depending on the service.

What currency is used in Egypt?

Egypt uses the Egyptian pound (LE). 1 Egyptian pound = 100 piasters.Coins are rarely used, but they do exist.Transactions use notes (5, 10, 25, or 50 piasters) and (1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, or 200 pounds). As the value of the money decreases so does the size of the notes.
*Be careful! Many notes are old and worn and the colors of different values are similar. One side of the note is printed in Arabic while the other side is printed in English. Always double check your money before paying anyone.

How much money should I bring?

This is really down to you; how much are you looking to spend, what kinds of things do you want to buy, what kinds of extra trips/excursions might you want to do while you're here, how much is your currency worth in Egyptian pounds, etc.
Try speaking with people who have visited Egypt and ask about their trip and expenses. You can also contact your tour operator and ask him for a guideline.

Where can I exchange money?

Currency exchange is available at the airport, banks, in all major hotels, and at bureaus de change.Only change what you will need for a day or two at a time. Changing large amounts of money is not recommended for several reasons. One, you will end up carrying a large amount of cash on your person. Two, it is often difficult to change Egyptian pounds back to a foreign currency. Three, Egyptian pounds are only accepted in Egypt.

Will my ATM/Debit Card work in Egypt?

Yes, you will be able to withdraw funds using your ATM/Debit Card. However, it is not advised to rely on your Debit Card for in-store purchases. Many stores do not yet support Debit Card purchases.
Prior to your trip, check with your bank and inquire about international fees. Also inform them of your trip so if you do use your card abroad they do not freeze your funds for suspicious activity.
All funds withdrawn in Egypt will be dispensed in Egyptian pounds.

Are travelers cheques accepted?

Travelers cheques are accepted for exchange at the airport, banks, in major hotels, and at bureaus de change.They are not accepted by shopkeepers for use instead of cash.

Can I use my credit card?

Depending on where you are and what you are purchasing, yes, you can use your credit card. Stores and shops that accept credit cards will usually display the logos on the entrance door or near the cash registers. Generally credit card use is safe and involve no hassles. To be safe, inform your card provider of your trip to avoid any freezing of your account.

What big-name financial institutions are available in Egypt?

Here is a list of some financial institutions located in Egypt:
CIB (Commercial International Bank)
National Bank of Egypt
Citibank
HSBC
NSGB
Bank of Alexandria
American Express
Thomas Cook
Western Union
Barclay's
...plus many other local or regional institutions

What are Egypt's visa requirements?

All foreigners wishing to visit Egypt must have an Entry visa.Visas may be purchased at the airport upon arrival or prior to your trip from Egyptian Diplomatic and Consular Missions abroad. (Visas purchased at the airport are generally less expensive than getting it at home). An Entry visa is good for one-time entry for a period of 30 days.

Do I need to obtain a visa prior to my trip?

No, most people can purchase their Entry visa at the airport.
**Citizens of the following countries should have pre-arrival visas:
Afghanistan, Algeria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Chechnya, Georgia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Iran, Israel, Kazakhstan, Kirghizia, Lebanon, Macao, Macedonia, Moldavia, Montenegro, Morocco, Pakistan, Palestine, India, Indonesia, The Philippines, Sri-Lanka, Tadzhikistan , Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Turkey, and All African countries.

How much does an Entry visa cost?

An Entry visa costs $15 or the equivalent in Sterling pounds, Egyptian pounds, or Euros. Entry visas must be paid for in one of these 4 currencies.

Who needs a visa?

All foreigners need a visa.

Is Egypt safe?

Yes, Egypt is safe. Egypt has had it's share of targeted violence in the past, but shows no major threats today. Travelers should remain alert and be aware of their surroundings as an extra precaution.

I am a woman traveling alone, will I be safe?

Yes. Use common sense and follow the guidelines for dress and you should enjoy a wonderful experience.

Should I fear the surrounding political situation in the Middle East?

No, the situation in the Middle East will not affect your journey through Egypt.

Is Egypt prone to any attacks?

Despite past incidences, Egypt is not currently prone to any attacks political or otherwise.

Will I be able to find batteries for my camera? Where?

Yes, provided your camera takes standard sized batteries they can be easily found. If your camera requires a specific battery it is better to bring them from home. Batteries can be found throughout Egypt at many local shops, grocery stores, and in stores such as Radio Shack.

What brands of film are available?

Both Kodak and Fujifilm are readily available in addition to other local/regional brands.

Are memory cards for digital cameras readily available?

As Egypt moves into the digital world devices like memory cards are becoming available. However, not all brands or specific sizes are easily found. To be safe, bring a card with a large memory or extra cards with you from home.

Can I use my camera everywhere?

For the most part, yes. Inside certain temples, tombs, museum exhibits, etc. camera use (even without flash) is strictly forbidden. If this is the case, you will usually be informed before entering. Some places will allow you to carry your camera while other places have a holding service at the entrance.

Do I have to pay a photography fee at monuments or temples?

No, not usually. Your tour guide will be able to inform you of any such fee requirements.

What is the weather like?

In general, Egypt enjoys sunny days all year with hot, dry summer days and mild winter days. Rain does fall, but only at an average of 30mm/year (in Cairo). Between May and October is considered summer and October to May is winter. Summer temperatures can range from 68 F/19 C to 90 F/32 C; winter temperatures range from 47 F/8 C to 89 F/23 C (averages for Cairo). The further North you travel, the cooler temperatures will be and vice versa for the South. In recent years humidity has found its way South to Cairo; with its current population, the number of air conditioners, and high volume of cars,summer days in Cairo can be almost unbearable for many foreigners.

How many seasons does Egypt have? When are they?

Two - summer and winter. Summer runs from May-October and winter is October-May.

What are the national holidays and when are they celebrated?

*The following are recognized country-wide; government offices & ministries are closed:
January 7th - Christmas Day (Coptic Christmas)
April 25th - Sinai Liberation Day
May 1st - Labor Day
July 23rd - Revolution Day
October 16th - Armed Forces Day
*These holidays are also public holidays, but with changing dates each year:
Sham El Nessim (Monday following Orthodox Easter)
Islamic New Year (based on the lunar Islamic calendar)
Prophet Mohammed's Birthday
Ramadan & Eid feast
Sacrifice Feast (Eid)
*This set of holidays are widely celebrated, but government offices, public institutions, and ministries remain open:
January 1st - New Year's Day
mid-March - Mother's Day
June 18th - Evacuation Day
August 15th - Flooding of the Nile
October 21st - Egyptian Naval Day
October 24th - Suez Day
December 23rd - Victory Day

What languages are spoken?

Arabic is the official language with English and French widely understood by educated classes.

What is the predominant religion?

Egypt is predominantly Muslim, but you'll also find Christians and other religions as well.

Are there any travel guides you recommend?

Recent editions of The Lonely Planet or The Rough Guide are often helpful tools for travelers. These books can be purchased online or from the travel section of your local bookstore.

Where can I find a street maps?

Local street maps can be picked up at many hotels and tourism offices upon arrival.