Local Sites in Cairo

Egypt is a destination where history, culture, nature, food and modern city life come together in a unique way. It is home to some of the world's most famous archaeological monuments, including the Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx, the temples of Luxor and Karnak, and the tombs of the Valley of the Kings. At the same time, visitors can enjoy the River Nile, traditional markets, modern restaurants, Red Sea beaches, desert landscapes and a rich local food culture.

December is one of the most comfortable months for visiting Egypt. It is winter, but Egyptian winters are generally mild compared with those in Europe and North America. Days are often sunny and pleasant, while mornings and evenings can be cool. This makes December particularly suitable for walking tours, archaeological visits, Nile cruises and desert excursions.

For a first visit, Cairo and Giza should receive special attention, as they provide an excellent introduction to ancient Egyptian history as well as Islamic, Coptic and modern Egyptian culture. Cairo is a huge and vibrant city built around the Nile, while neighbouring Giza contains the country's most internationally recognised monuments. Egypt's official tourism authority presents Greater Cairo as a destination combining the ancient wonders of Giza, medieval Historic Cairo, Downtown Cairo and modern neighbourhoods along the Nile.


 
 

Travel Requirements for Egypt

Passport Requirement

If you are visiting Egypt, your passport should be valid for 6 months from the date you arrive.

Visa Requirement

Many countries require a Visa to enter Egypt, please check with your state departement for specific travel requirements. 
 
Visa Types:
  • e-Visa: Eligible travelers can apply online through the official Egyptian government portal before departure. Please check if your country is eligible for an e-Visa at visa2egypt.gov.eg.
  • Visa an Arrival: Available at major international airports for many nationalities.
  • Consular Visa: Required if you are not eligible for the other options or plan a longer stay. Apply in person through the nearest Egyptian consulate.
Request a Visa Letter:
  • Visa Letter: Conference registrants may request a Visa Invitation Letter.  Please email info@paafrica.org with Conference Registration Receipt, First and Last Name, Postition, Company or University Name, and Address. 
 

Visa Applications

 
Visa Application
 
 
 
Travelers are required to comply with the health requirements of their final destination country. It is the sole responsibility of travelers to inform themselves and comply with the sanitary requirements of the countries of departure and destination.
 

Currency

Exchanging Egyptian Pounds 

Egyptian Pounds(EGP) are not a closed currency, and can be obtained outside of Egypt.
 
 
You can exchange your currency for Egyptian Pounds in banks and authorized exchange offices. Airports and hotels may also offer exchanges, however, they may have less favorable exchange rates. Banknotes range from 1 pound to 200 pounds. The most commonly used denominations are 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 pounds. Coins are available in smaller denominations, typically 25 and 50 piasters, as well as 1 pound. 
 

Can I use my card in Egypt?

Many tourist destinations will accept payment with a debit or credit card, and you can use them in most ATMs. Mastercard and Visa are widely accepted, while it is generally more challenging to find places that take other card types, so you will be better off taking cash as backup. ATMs will likely charge a foreign exchange fee.
 

Tipping in Egypt

Tipping, or “baksheesh,” is an ingrained part of Egyptian cultural etiquette, and you’ll encounter it in various situations throughout your trip. Whether you’re dining at a restaurant, using a public restroom, or receiving help from hotel staff, tipping is customary. The amount can vary depending on the service, but a general rule of thumb is to leave around 10-15% at restaurants and smaller tips for other services.

Be prepared with small bills or change, as many workers depend on tips to supplement their incomes. It may seem unusual for first-time visitors, but tipping is a way of life in Egypt and is often expected as a sign of appreciation for services rendered.
 

Getting Egyptian Pounds before your trip

Because it’s a restricted currency, it is difficult to exchange for Egyptian Pounds outside of Egypt. Most travellers recommend bringing crisp bills and exchanging upon arrival at certified exchanges or using local ATMs. Make sure to look out for differing exchange rates and choose a location that works in your favor.
 
It’s a good idea to get hold of some Egyptian Pounds as soon as you can after arrival, as not everywhere will take cards.

The Egyptian Pound (EGP)

Currency Image
 
Current bank notes in Egypt
Need some more detail on what currency does Egypt use? Let’s take a look at coinage and notes.
 
Pound notes come in the following denominations:
  • 1 pound
  • 5 pounds
  • 10 pounds
  • 20 pounds
  • 50 pounds
  • 100 pounds
  • 200 pounds
 
Current coins in Egypt
Need some more detail on what currency does Egypt use? Let’s take a look at coinage and notes.
 
The coins currently in circulation are:
  • 1 piastre
  • 5 piastre
  • 10 piastre
  • 20 piastre
  • 25 piastre
  • 40 piastre
 
 

Culture and Etiquette

Egyptians are warm and friendly. A handshake accompanied by a smile is a common greeting. If someone places their hand on their heart after shaking hands, it signifies respect and sincerity. During greetings, it’s polite to ask about the person’s health and well-being.
 

Dress Code

Since Egypt’s a predominantly Muslim country, its dress code for tourists is quite conservative. Men are expected to dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious or cultural sites. Lightweight, breathable clothing that covers the shoulders and legs is recommended. Shorts are generally acceptable in tourist areas and resorts, but longer trousers are preferred in more conservative regions or when visiting mosques.
 
Understanding what to wear in Egypt for women is important for ensuring a respectful and comfortable travel experience. Modesty is a key part of Egyptian culture. While cities like Cairo and Alexandria are more cosmopolitan, in general, attire that covers your shoulders, knees, and chest is appreciated. Lightweight, long-sleeved tops, tunics, and loose pants or long skirts are ideal. A breathable scarf is a versatile accessory, useful for covering your hair when visiting religious sites such as mosques, and also as protection against the sun and sand.
 
For beach towns like Sharm El-Sheikh, Western swimwear is acceptable within the confines of the resort, but remember, when you leave the beach, it’s time to cover up again. It’s all about respecting the culture while staying comfortable in Egypt’s generally hot climate.
 

Dining Etiquette

If you're invited to an Egyptian home, expect a generous spread of dishes. It’s customary to compliment the host on the food and accept the offer of second helpings as a sign of appreciation.
 
Egyptians generally use utensils, but it’s also acceptable to eat with your right hand, especially when bread is used as a utensil for scooping food. Always pass dishes with your right hand.
 
Hospitality is a cornerstone of Egyptian culture. Showing gratitude and respect for the host’s efforts is appreciated. A small gift, like sweets or flowers, is a thoughtful gesture if you're invited to a home.
 

Smoking and drinking

Egypt allows alcohol consumption, but only under regulated conditions. The legal drinking age is officially 21, although enforcement sometimes varies. Tourists can buy and consume alcohol in licensed venues such as hotels, bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. However, drinking in public spaces such as streets, parks, or outside religious sites is strictly prohibited. Possession of alcohol isn’t illegal, but public intoxication can lead to fines or, in rare cases, legal issues.
 
Interestingly, most local Egyptians don’t openly consume alcohol due to religious beliefs. While Islam prohibits alcohol, the state recognizes tourism as a key economic sector and therefore permits its sale to non-Muslims in regulated spaces. Major cities like Cairo and tourist destinations such as Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Alexandria have a more relaxed approach, where alcohol is commonly available for foreign visitors.
 
Smoking is very commonplace in Egypt, however, some places do not allow it. Tourism areas typically do not allow indoor smoking in restaurants or hotels, but this may vary based on the area. Additionally, smoking on public transport is banned and can result in fines. Taxis and other forms of private transportation can vary on smoking restrictions.
 

Taking photographs

Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially women and children. Avoid taking pictures of military or strategic sites.
 

Meeting and greeting in public

Useful Arabic Phrases: Knowing basic Arabic phrases like “Salam Alaykum” (peace be upon you) for greeting, “Shukran” (thank you), and “Min Fadlak” (please) can enhance your interaction with locals. Avoid gestures that can be considered rude or offensive, such as showing the soles of your shoes or using your left hand to give or receive items.
 
It is common for men to shake hands using their right hand. Greetings between men and women are allowed, however, the woman must extend her hand first. If she does not, a man should bow his head as a sign of acknowledgment.
 
First names tend not to be used unless one has been invited to do so. The common form of address is the use of titles (e.g. Mr, Mrs, Dr, etc.) along with one’s first name or surname depending on the relationship.
 
Greetings among Egyptians can be quite lengthy as people inquire about their counterpart’s health, the well-being of their family, etc.