50 Tips and Hacks for Indian Travelers to Egypt: Before You Travel

Traveling to Egypt from India can be an incredible adventure, but a little preparation goes a long way. Here are 50 tips and hacks to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip:

Visas and Documentation (1-4)

1. Visa Requirements:  Double-check visa requirements for Indian citizens. You might need to apply for a visa before departure or upon arrival ( https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Egypt.html ).
2. Passport Validity:  Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity remaining from your return date.
3. Travel Insurance:  Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and baggage loss.
4. Photocopies:  Make photocopies of your passport, visa, travel insurance, and important documents in case of loss or theft.

Planning and Booking (5-8)

5. Peak Season:  Egypt gets crowded in December-February and Easter. Consider shoulder seasons (March-May, September-November) for better deals and fewer crowds.
6. Flights:  Several airlines offer direct and connecting flights from major Indian cities to Cairo. Compare prices and book in advance for better deals.
7. Accommodation:  Choose your accommodation based on your budget and preferred location. Hostels are budget-friendly, while hotels offer more amenities. Consider all-inclusive resorts, especially for beach vacations.
8. Tours and Activities:  Research and pre-book tours and activities, especially for popular attractions like the Pyramids or Nile cruises, to avoid disappointment.

Currency and Money Matters (9-12)

9. Egyptian Pound (EGP):  Egypt's currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Familiarize yourself with exchange rates and consider exchanging some currency before departure.
10. ATMs and Credit Cards:  ATMs are widely available in major cities. Credit cards are accepted in many establishments, but inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid blocked cards.
11. Tipping:  Tipping is expected in Egypt, for waiters, porters, and guides. A small token of appreciation (5-10 EGP) is sufficient.
12. Bargaining:  Bargaining is customary in local markets and with street vendors. Be polite and respectful during negotiations.

Health and Safety (13-18)

13. Vaccinations:  Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations and consider recommendations for Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Consult a healthcare professional for specific advice.
14. Travel Kit:  Pack a basic medical kit with essential medication for common ailments like diarrhea, indigestion, and allergies.
15. Sun Protection:  Egypt has strong sunshine. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from UV rays.
16. Stay Hydrated:  Drink plenty of bottled water, especially during the hot summer months. Avoid tap water unless it's purified.
17. Dress Modestly:  Egyptians tend to dress modestly, especially outside major tourist areas. For women, loose-fitting clothing that covers shoulders and knees is respectful.
18. Be Culturally Aware:  Be mindful of local customs and traditions. Research Islamic etiquette to avoid unintentional offense.

Communication (19-22)

19. Download Offline Maps:  Download offline maps of your destinations to navigate without an internet connection.
20. Get a Local SIM Card:  Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival for affordable data and calls within Egypt.
21. Learn Basic Arabic Phrases:  Learn a few basic Arabic phrases like "hello" ("marhaba"), "thank you" ("shukran"), and "please" ("min fadhlik") to enhance your experience.
22. Download Translation Apps:  Download translation apps to help bridge any language gaps.

Essential Packing (23-28)

23. Comfortable Clothing:  Pack loose-fitting, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton or linen, suitable for hot weather.
24. Closed-toe Shoes:  Pack comfortable closed-toe shoes for walking on uneven terrain and exploring historical sites.
25. Sunscreen and Hat:  A high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat are essential for sun protection.
26. Reusable Water Bottle:  Pack a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and avoid buying plastic bottles.
27. Universal Adapter:  Purchase a universal adapter to charge your electronic devices in Egypt.
28. Cash and Credit Card:  Carry a mix of Egyptian Pounds (EGP) and your credit card for different situations.

Culture and Etiquette (29-34)

29. Greetings:  A handshake is a common form of greeting, but it's important to be mindful of cultural nuances. Men may also greet other men with a cheek kiss.

Culture and Etiquette (continued) (30-34)

30. Greetings:  A handshake is a common form of greeting. Men may greet other men with a cheek kiss.
31. Photography:  Ask permission before photographing people, especially women in rural areas.
32. Public Displays of Affection:  Public displays of affection are not widely accepted in Egypt.
33. Shoes:  Remove your shoes before entering mosques and certain religious sites.
34. Ramadan:  If traveling during Ramadan, be respectful of the holy month. Observe limitations on eating and drinking in public during daylight hours.

Food and Drink (35-38)

35. Local Cuisine:  Try traditional Egyptian dishes like Koshary (lentil and pasta dish), Falafel (chickpea fritters), and Ful Medames (fava bean stew).
36. Street Food:  Street food can be delicious and affordable, but exercise caution and choose vendors with good hygiene practices.
37. Stay Hydrated:  As mentioned earlier, drink plenty of bottled water to avoid dehydration.
38. Beverages:  Try local tea (shai) and coffee (qahwa). Freshly squeezed juices are also refreshing options.

Shopping and Souvenirs (39-42)

39. Haggling:  Bargaining is expected in traditional markets. Start with a lower offer and politely negotiate for a fair price.
40. Support Local Artisans:  Look for handcrafted souvenirs like carpets, jewelry, and pottery from local artisans.
41. Official Receipts:  Insist on official receipts for your purchases, especially for valuable items.
42. Duty-Free Allowance:  Be aware of duty-free allowances when bringing back souvenirs to India.

Transportation (43-46)

43. Taxis:  Metered taxis are the most common mode of transport in major cities. Agree on the fare beforehand to avoid disputes.
44. Ridesharing Apps:  Ridesharing apps like Uber and Careem are also available in major cities and can be convenient and affordable.
45. Public Transportation:  Public buses and trains are a budget-friendly option for intercity travel, but can be crowded.
46. Domestic Flights:  Consider domestic flights for long distances within Egypt, especially if time is limited.

Making the Most of Your Trip (47-50)

47. Learn Some History:  Brush up on Egyptian history before your trip. Understanding the context of the pyramids, temples, and other historical sites will enhance your experience.
48. Hire a Local Guide:  Consider hiring a reputable local guide for in-depth historical insights and navigation at major attractions.
49. Embrace the Culture:  Be open to new experiences and immerse yourself in Egyptian culture. Sample local cuisine, attend cultural events, and interact with friendly locals.
50. Relax and Have Fun!:  Most importantly, relax, have fun, and create lasting memories on your Egyptian adventure!