Travelers’ Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know for your perfect Egyptian adventure
Egypt is full of treasures. For first-time visitors, the must-see list includes the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the temples of Luxor and Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, and the breathtaking Abu Simbel temples in Aswan.
For relaxation, head to Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, or Marsa Alam on the Red Sea. If you want a blend of history and Mediterranean charm, Alexandria is a perfect choice.
Top experiences include:
- Visiting the Pyramids of Giza and riding a camel
- Exploring Luxor's Valley of the Kings
- Taking a Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan
- Snorkeling or diving in the Red Sea
- Hot air balloon ride over Luxor
- Discovering Islamic Cairo's mosques and Khan El Khalili Bazaar
Egypt is a dream destination for its:
- World-famous monuments like the pyramids and temples
- Rich culture blending ancient and modern traditions
- Nile cruises: a unique way to explore history
- Red Sea beaches with world-class diving
- Warm hospitality of its people
The essential highlights are:
- Cairo: Pyramids, Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo
- Luxor: Karnak, Valley of the Kings, Luxor Temple
- Aswan: Philae Temple, Abu Simbel
- Nile Cruise: Relaxed travel with guided excursions
- Red Sea: Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh
Optional add-ons: Alexandria, White Desert, Siwa Oasis
Yes. We can arrange last-minute activities such as camel rides, hot air ballooning, dinner cruises, or desert safaris. Booking with Respect Tours ensures availability and fair prices.
Respect Tours provides meet-and-greet airport transfers with professional drivers holding name signs. We monitor flight schedules to ensure timely pickup, even for delayed arrivals.
The most comfortable options are domestic flights (Cairo to Luxor/Aswan takes 1-1.5 hours) or private road transfers. Overnight sleeper trains are also available. Respect Tours arranges the best option based on your schedule and comfort preferences.
Yes, you can exchange foreign currency at banks, airport counters, and exchange offices. US dollars and euros are widely accepted for exchange. Some tourist shops also accept them directly.
Exchange rates are generally better at banks than hotels. Keep exchange receipts as some places require them for certain purchases.
The Egyptian Pound (EGP) is the official currency. ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Carry small notes for tips and small purchases.
Credit cards are accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas, but cash is preferred for smaller vendors and markets.
Yes, tipping (called "baksheesh") is customary in Egypt. General guidelines:
- Tour guides: $5-10 per person per day
- Drivers: $3-5 per person per day
- Restaurants: 10-15% of the bill
- Hotel staff: 20-50 EGP for room service
- Cruise staff: $3-5 per person per day for crew
Egypt offers great value for money:
- Street food: $2-5 per meal
- Restaurant dining: $10-25 per person
- Souvenirs: $5-50 depending on item
- Bottled water: $0.50-1
Bargaining is expected in markets and with street vendors. Start at 30-50% of the asking price.
There are standard 3-night (Aswan to Luxor) and 4-night (Luxor to Aswan) cruises, plus luxury 5-star deluxe cruises with more facilities. Some offer dahabiyas (traditional sailing boats) for a more intimate experience.
Respect Tours offers various cruise categories from budget-friendly to ultra-luxury, all carefully selected for quality and service standards.
Standard Nile cruises include accommodation, full-board meals, guided shore excursions, and onboard entertainment. Drinks, tips, Wi-Fi, and some optional excursions are extra.
Respect Tours provides a clear breakdown before booking so you know exactly what's included and what costs extra.
October to April offers the most comfortable weather for Nile cruises. December to February is peak season with cooler temperatures but higher prices and crowds.
May and September can be good value with fewer tourists, though it's warmer. Summer months (June-August) are very hot but offer the lowest prices.
Standard Nile cruise itineraries include:
- Luxor: Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple
- Edfu: Temple of Horus (best-preserved temple in Egypt)
- Kom Ombo: Unique dual temple for two gods
- Aswan: Philae Temple, High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk
Optional add-on: Abu Simbel temples (highly recommended).
No special vaccinations are required for most travelers. However, it's recommended to be up-to-date with routine vaccines like MMR, DPT, flu, and COVID-19.
Yellow fever vaccination is required only if you're coming from a yellow fever endemic area. Consult your doctor or travel clinic for personalized advice.
It's recommended to drink bottled water, which is widely available and inexpensive. Avoid tap water, ice cubes, and raw vegetables washed in tap water.
Most hotels provide complimentary bottled water. Respect Tours ensures water is available during tours and transfers.
Essential items for your medical kit:
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+) and after-sun lotion
- Anti-diarrheal medication
- Pain relievers and fever reducers
- Rehydration salts
- Any personal prescription medications
- Insect repellent
- Band-aids and antiseptic cream
Major cities and tourist areas have good private hospitals and clinics with English-speaking staff. International health insurance is recommended.
Respect Tours can assist with medical emergencies and provide recommendations for trusted medical facilities.
Most travelers need a visa to enter Egypt. Citizens of many countries can obtain an e-Visa online before traveling or a visa on arrival at Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and Hurghada airports.
A single-entry tourist visa costs $25 USD and is valid for 30 days. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date. Some nationalities are exempt, while others require prior application at an Egyptian embassy.
The e-Visa allows you to apply online before traveling, saving time at the airport. The visa on arrival can be purchased on the spot for eligible nationalities but may involve waiting in line.
For peace of mind, we recommend the e-Visa.
Egyptian cuisine is hearty and full of flavor. Don't miss koshari (a mix of rice, lentils, pasta, and tomato sauce), ful medames (stewed fava beans), falafel (ta'ameya) made with fava beans, and molokhia (green soup).
For meat lovers, shawarma and grilled kofta are popular. And for dessert, try basbousa or kunafa. Respect Tours can arrange food tours if you'd like to explore authentic tastes with a local guide.
Yes, most Nile cruises cater to vegetarians. Buffets usually include salads, rice, pasta, and vegetable dishes. If you have dietary needs, inform Respect Tours in advance so we can notify the cruise staff.
The ideal time to visit is October to April, when the weather is cooler and perfect for sightseeing. Summer months (June–August) are very hot, especially in Upper Egypt, but Red Sea resorts offer great beach escapes year-round.
Winter (December–February) is high season, so book early for tours and cruises.
Egypt has a desert climate. Summers (May–August) are hot (30–40°C), while winters (December–February) are mild (15–25°C). Upper Egypt (Luxor, Aswan) is hotter than Cairo and the coast.
Red Sea resorts enjoy warm weather year-round, making them great for winter sun holidays.
The best season is October to April, when the weather is mild for sightseeing. For Red Sea beach holidays, Egypt is great year-round.
The most affordable months are May, September, and early November, when it's less crowded and hotel/cruise prices are lower.
Egypt is conservative, especially in rural areas. For men, light shirts and trousers are fine. For women, modest clothing is recommended, cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites.
At resorts, swimwear is accepted on the beach and by pools. Comfortable shoes are essential for exploring temples and ruins.
Pack light, breathable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a scarf or shawl for religious sites. In winter, bring a light jacket for chilly evenings.
Don't forget universal adapters, a reusable water bottle, and personal medication. If you're taking a Nile cruise, pack semi-formal wear for dinners.
Absolutely. Respect Tours specializes in tailor-made itineraries. Whether you want more history, leisure time, or adventure activities, we adapt the schedule, hotels, and tours to your style.
Yes, Respect Tours works only with licensed Egyptologists. Our guides speak English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, and other languages upon request.
Included: private transport, licensed guide, and itinerary planning.
Excluded: entrance fees (unless stated), meals, tips, and personal expenses. We always clarify inclusions so there are no surprises.
At Respect Tours, we make sure your trip is seamless from start to finish. We provide:
- Licensed Egyptologist guides who bring history to life
- 24/7 assistance before and during your trip
- Tailor-made itineraries with no hidden costs or forced shopping stops
- Airport meet & assist, transfers, hotels, and tours all under one trusted name
We don't just organize trips—we create memories that last a lifetime.
Yes, Egypt is considered safe for tourists, with security measures in place at airports, hotels, and major attractions. Popular tourist destinations like Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and the Red Sea resorts are well-guarded.
As with any country, be cautious in crowded areas, avoid political gatherings, and use a trusted local operator like Respect Tours for hassle-free travel.
Dress modestly, especially outside tourist resorts, to avoid unwanted attention. Use scarves when visiting mosques. Traveling with a guide or group adds comfort and security.
Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night. Egyptian people are hospitable, and with cultural respect, women usually feel safe.
Yes, Nile cruises are very safe. Boats follow strict safety regulations, and security checks are carried out at ports. Respect Tours only works with trusted cruise lines to ensure high standards.
Yes, Nile cruises are family-friendly. Children enjoy the experience of sailing and visiting temples. Many cruises provide family cabins and child-friendly menus. Always supervise young kids near decks and water areas.
Yes, Egypt is considered safe for tourists in main areas like Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Aswan, and the Red Sea. The government prioritizes tourist security. Respect Tours monitors travel advisories to keep our guests updated.
Yes, many women travel solo in Egypt safely. Choose reputable guides, dress modestly, and use private transfers. Respect Tours ensures a smooth and secure experience for solo female travelers.
Egypt celebrates Islamic and national holidays. Key dates include Ramadan (month of fasting), Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha. National holidays include Revolution Day (July 23) and Sinai Liberation Day (April 25).
During Ramadan, sightseeing continues, but restaurants may adjust hours. Respect Tours updates travelers on holiday schedules to plan activities accordingly.
Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in hotels, airports, and tourist areas. Many guides also speak French, German, Spanish, Italian, and other languages.
Egypt offers domestic flights, trains, buses, Uber, and taxis. For comfort, private transfers and guided tours are best for tourists. Overnight trains run between Cairo and Luxor/Aswan.
In Cairo, Uber is more reliable than street taxis. Respect Tours offers air-conditioned vehicles with professional drivers.
Yes, Respect Tours provides luxury vehicles including Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and other premium cars with professional chauffeurs for VIP clients who prefer extra comfort and style.