Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2026: Simplified e-Visa System
Egypt has streamlined its e-Visa process for easier online applications ($25 fee), valid for 30 days and multiple entries. This is ideal for tourists visiting sites like the Pyramids or Luxor, with approvals typically within 48 hours. Always check for updates on the official Egyptian government portal before applying.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from Egypt, with at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps. This ensures smooth processing at borders and prevents issues with airlines or immigration officials.
Renew your passport early if it's nearing expiration, as some nationalities face stricter rules for re-entry to their home countries.
Visa on Arrival Eligibility
Citizens of over 70 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and EU nations, can obtain a visa on arrival at major airports like Cairo for $25 USD, valid for 30 days in tourist areas.
Pay in cash (USD preferred) at the airport kiosks; this option is convenient but lines can be long during peak seasons.
e-Visa Applications
Apply for an e-Visa online via the official Egyptian portal ($25 fee), submitting a passport scan, photo, and travel itinerary; it's processed in 1-7 days and sent via email.
This is recommended for peace of mind, especially if arriving at smaller airports or land borders where on-arrival visas may not be available.
Border Crossings
Major entry points include Cairo International Airport, where immigration is efficient but expect security checks; land borders like Taba (from Israel) require pre-arranged visas for some nationalities.
Red Sea ports such as Hurghada offer visa-on-arrival for Sinai-only trips (free for 15 days), but full Egypt visas are needed for mainland travel.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and adventure activities like Nile cruises or desert safaris in Egypt.
Ensure coverage for evacuation, as remote sites like the Valley of the Kings may require airlifting; policies start at $2-5 per day from global providers.
Visa Extensions
Extend your 30-day visa up to three times (total 90 days) by applying at a local Mogamma office or passport office in Cairo with your passport, photos, and a fee of about $15-20 per extension.
Apply at least one week before expiration to avoid overstay fines of $5-10 per day; extensions are straightforward for tourists but require proof of onward travel.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
Egypt uses the Egyptian Pound (EGP). For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Cairo by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially during shoulder seasons like spring.
Eat Like a Local
Dine at street vendors or hole-in-the-wall spots for falafel or ta'amiya under $3, avoiding hotel buffets to save up to 70% on food costs.
Local souks offer fresh fruits, nuts, and ready meals at bargain prices, providing authentic flavors without the tourist markup.
Public Transport Passes
Opt for overnight trains between Cairo and Aswan ($20-30) to save on accommodation, or use the Cairo Metro pass at $1/day for unlimited city rides.
Shared taxis (microbuses) for intercity travel cost $5-10, far cheaper than private hires, and offer a glimpse into daily Egyptian life.
Free Attractions
Explore the Nile River corniche at sunset, wander Islamic Cairo's alleys, or visit the Sphinx from afar without entry fees for budget-friendly immersion.
Many mosques like Al-Azhar are free to enter, and public beaches in Alexandria provide cost-free relaxation with stunning Mediterranean views.
Card vs Cash
Cards are accepted in hotels and larger shops, but carry EGP cash for souks, taxis, and tips where ATMs may be scarce in rural areas.
Withdraw from bank ATMs for the best rates (avoid airport exchanges), and notify your bank of travel to prevent card blocks.
Combo Tickets & Passes
Purchase the Luxor Pass ($100 for 5 days) for unlimited access to temples and tombs, saving 40% compared to individual entries.
It covers over 50 sites and pays for itself after just a few visits, ideal for history buffs exploring the ancient wonders.
Smart Packing for Egypt
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack lightweight, breathable cotton clothes for the heat, including long sleeves and pants for sun protection and cultural respect at mosques and temples.
Include a scarf for women to cover hair at religious sites, and quick-dry layers for Nile cruises where evenings can cool down slightly.
Electronics
Bring a universal adapter (Type C/F), portable charger for long days at sites like the Pyramids, and a VPN app for secure Wi-Fi in cafes.
Download offline maps of Cairo and Luxor, plus translation apps for Arabic, as English signage varies outside tourist hubs.
Health & Safety
Carry comprehensive travel insurance docs, a basic first-aid kit with antidiarrheal meds, and prescriptions; include high-SPF sunscreen and hats for intense sun exposure.
Pack mosquito repellent for Nile Valley areas, hand sanitizer, and water purification tablets as a backup, though bottled water is standard.
Travel Gear
Opt for a lightweight daypack for carrying water and snacks during desert excursions, plus a reusable bottle to stay hydrated in the arid climate.
Include passport copies, a money belt for cash and cards, and comfortable straps to handle bumpy rides on local transport.
Footwear Strategy
Choose closed-toe sandals or breathable sneakers for dusty sites like Karnak Temple, and sturdy hiking shoes for Sinai trails or Red Sea hikes.
Avoid high heels on uneven ancient pavements; pack extra socks to combat sand and sweat in Egypt's variable terrains.
Personal Care
Include travel-sized toiletries with high-SPF lip balm, moisturizer for dry air, and wet wipes for dusty environments without frequent showers.
A compact umbrella or hat offers shade from the relentless sun, and biodegradable products respect Egypt's sensitive ecosystems around the Nile.
When to Visit Egypt
Spring (March-May)
Mild weather of 20-30°C makes it perfect for exploring the Pyramids and Luxor without extreme heat, with blooming desert flora adding scenic beauty.
Fewer crowds than winter peak, ideal for hot air balloon rides over the Valley of the Kings and relaxed Nile felucca sails.
Summer (June-August)
Intense heat of 35-45°C limits mainland activities but excels for Red Sea diving in Sharm El Sheikh, where water temps reach 28°C for world-class coral reefs.
Lower prices on resorts make it budget-friendly for beach-focused trips, though early mornings are best for any sightseeing to beat the midday sun.
Autumn (September-November)
Comfortable 25-35°C temperatures are great for desert safaris in the White Desert and temple hopping in Aswan, with vibrant sunsets enhancing photography.
Shoulder season means deals on cruises and fewer tourists, perfect for immersive experiences like attending a sound-and-light show at Giza.
Winter (December-February)
Cooler days of 15-25°C are the prime time for Cairo's markets and Abu Simbel visits, avoiding summer's scorch while enjoying festivals like Coptic Christmas.
Peak season brings crowds but milder weather suits long walks through ancient sites; evenings require light jackets for the Nile's breezes.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP). Exchange rates fluctuate; cards accepted in cities but cash essential for rural areas and tips.
- Language: Arabic is official. English widely spoken in tourist spots like Giza and Hurghada, but basic phrases help in souks.
- Time Zone: Eastern European Time (EET), UTC+2 (no daylight saving in 2026)
- Electricity: 220V, 50Hz. Type C/F plugs (European two-pin round)
- Emergency Number: 122 for police, 123 for ambulance, 125 for fire services
- Tipping: Baksheesh culture is common; tip 10-20% in restaurants, $1-2 for guides, and small amounts for small services
- Water: Drink only bottled or purified water; tap water is not safe for tourists due to contamination risks
- Pharmacies: Easily found in cities. Look for green cross signs; they stock Western brands and can advise on minor ailments