Private Egypt Tour Itineraries

The best time to visit Egypt is from October to April, when the weather is cooler and ideal for sightseeing.

• October–November: Perfect for Nile cruises and desert tours; warm days and cool evenings.

• December–February: Peak season. Great for visiting pyramids and temples, but can get crowded.

• March–April: Excellent weather continues, and it’s less crowded.
  Summer (May–September) can be extremely hot, especially in Upper Egypt (Luxor, Aswan), but coastal cities like Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh are still pleasant due to sea breezes.

Most travelers need a tourist visa to enter Egypt.

• e-Visa: Available online for citizens of over 70 countries via the official Egypt e-Visa Portal. It’s valid for 30 days.

• Visa on Arrival: Available for certain nationalities at major airports (Cairo, Hurghada, Luxor) for $25 USD (single entry).

• Embassy Visa: Required for some countries not eligible for e-Visa or VOA.
  Always check your nationality’s requirements before traveling.

Egypt is a conservative Muslim country, and modest dress is appreciated, especially in public and religious places.

• For women: Loose clothing that covers shoulders and knees is recommended. A scarf for mosque visits is useful.

• For men: Avoid sleeveless shirts and short shorts in cities.
  At beach resorts (like Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada), Western-style clothing and swimsuits are fine.
  Comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, a hat, and breathable fabrics are essential for exploring.

It is not recommended to drink tap water in Egypt. While it’s treated and safe for locals, it may upset the stomachs of visitors unaccustomed to it.

• Drink bottled water, which is widely available and affordable.

• Avoid ice in drinks unless you are certain it’s from purified water.

• Use bottled water even for brushing teeth if you have a sensitive stomach.

Egypt’s official currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP or LE).

• Cash is king in many places, especially small shops, markets, and remote areas.

• Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in hotels, upscale restaurants, and major shops, especially in cities.

• ATMs are widely available. It's best to withdraw Egyptian Pounds locally.
  Tip: Avoid changing too much money at the airport for poor rates; use banks or official exchange offices.

While it’s possible to visit sites independently, a licensed Egyptologist guide is highly recommended for:

• Deep historical context that brings ancient monuments to life

• Easy navigation of large sites like the Pyramids, Karnak, and Valley of the Kings

• Handling logistics and avoiding tourist traps

• Enhancing safety and overall experience
  Most luxury and private tours (like with Your Egypt Tours) include expert guides for all major destinations.

Here’s a practical packing list for Egypt:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing (linen or cotton)

• A scarf or shawl (especially for women entering mosques)

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat (the sun is strong year-round)

• A small daypack for excursions

• Hand sanitizer, tissues, medications (including for digestion)

• Swimwear if heading to the Red Sea

• Copies of passport, visa, and travel insurance
  Adapters for Type C or F plugs (European standard) may be needed.

Egypt is a treasure trove of ancient wonders and natural beauty. Don’t miss:

• The Pyramids of Giza & Sphinx (Cairo)

• Egyptian Museum (Cairo) – home of Tutankhamun’s treasures

• Khan El Khalili Bazaar (Cairo) for souvenirs

• Luxor & Karnak Temples and Valley of the Kings (Luxor)

• Abu Simbel Temples (Aswan)

• Nile Cruise between Luxor and Aswan

• Red Sea resorts (Hurghada, Sharm el Sheikh) for snorkeling and diving

• Alexandria for Greco-Roman history and Mediterranean charm

Egyptian cuisine is flavorful, hearty, and vegetarian-friendly. Must-try dishes include:

• Koshari – a local favorite of lentils, rice, pasta, and tomato sauce

• Ful medames – mashed fava beans with olive oil and spices

• Taameya (Egyptian falafel), grilled meats, and fresh pita

• Molokhia, stuffed vine leaves, and shawarma are also popular

Street food can be delicious and safe if you choose busy, clean stalls with high turnover. For sensitive stomachs, it’s best to stick with restaurants or ask your guide for trusted local eateries.