Welcome to Egypt!
Discover the diversity! See and feel history in the land of the Pharaohs, discover the fascinating underwater world and enjoy being in the Orient. Treat yourself to a tour of discovery on your tour of Egypt.
Walk in the footsteps of long forgotten worlds and marvel at the sphinx, the pyramids and the Temple of Luxor! But it’s not only history and culture you’ll find in Egypt, there is plenty for water sports enthusiasts with great conditions for diving and (kite) surfing. And definitely part of any holiday in Egypt is the wonderful oriental hospitality, which will whisk you away into a enchanting world of culinary delights.
To make sure you get the most of your holiday in this extraordinary country we have compiled a few tips and some information for you:
To make sure you get the most of your holiday in this extraordinary country we have compiled a few tips and some information for you:
General information on Egypt as a destination
Entry requirements/visa: Please find out about the current entry requirements before going on your holiday to Egypt, for example visit the website of the Foreign Office.
Currency: Egyptian Pound (LE) = approx. €0.12 (as at 23.02.12), 1 Egyptian pound = 100 piasters
A few tips on changing money in Egypt:
- You will generally get a better rate in the banks than in the hotel or exchange offices.
- ATMs are available
- As an alternative, you can take traveller’s cheques with you, although they will NOT be accepted in the hotels in Luxor, Marsa Alâm, Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh.
- Credit cards are settled in US dollars and the bill for extras in the hotel must be paid in foreign currency (CHF, º, US-$).
- It is possible to exchange money back into euros only if you present the exchange declaration certificate with all the transactions entered on it.
Local language: Arabic, but English and sometimes German is spoken.
Time difference: +1 hour to Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
Climate and clothing: Please note that it can be very hot in Egypt during the day, and can cool down quickly in the evening hours. Therefore, light clothing and good sun protection is recommended for the day and somewhat warmer clothing for the evening. Comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are appropriate for tours. Please do not bring dresses and/or shorts that are too short. The exception here is the Red Sea. However, remember that it is strictly forbidden to sunbath "topless" or nude.
Photographing and filming: Please remember that in Egypt it is forbidden to film or photograph bridges, ports, airports, military facilities and tombs. A fee is charged for filming and taking photographs of some cultural sites. Please ask and show respect if you would like to photograph or film people.
Illness on holiday: Private travel health insurance is recommended as there is no social insurance agreement with Egypt.
Sunday and holidays: Please note that in Egypt, Friday is the weekly day of rest and that the weekend is Friday and Saturday. However, tourist shops are open throughout the week. In addition, you should be aware that Eqyptian holidays and school holidays are often used by local people as well as those in neighbouring countries to take a short holiday at the Red Sea, so that the cities and hotels are somewhat fuller and louder than usual.
Beach and sea: In Egypt, the beaches are generally artificially filled with sand. This makes it possible for coral to grow right up to the beach. As coral can be very sharp we recommend you take bathing shoes with you.
Taxi: Taking a taxi in Egypt is comparatively inexpensive and is quite often used by tourists. It’s a good idea to agree the price with the taxi driver before you start the journey.
Power: 220 volts AC is usual in Egypt. Don't forget an adapter!
Drinking water: Please do NOT drink tap water!
Tipping: "Bakschisch". At least 5 LE are expected as a tip.
For more information visit the website of the Egyptian Tourism Office.
