travelling to egypt in april

Weather Egypt in April

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April is when spring is in full bloom, offering the best time to visit Egypt. The weather is pleasant, and there are so many things to do. With warm temperatures and longer days, it's the perfect chance to explore ancient sites, have fun outside, and see the beautiful landscapes of the country. The best time to visit Egypt is between October and April, but what is the weather like in Egypt in April? Is it warm? And is it a good time to visit?

• What's the weather like in Egypt in April?

Is April a good time to visit Egypt?

Is egypt warm in april, average rainfall in egypt in april, festivals and events in egypt in april, tailor-made travel itineraries for egypt, created by local experts.

8 days  / from 1999 USD

The Best of Egypt

Explore the history and culture of Egypt and its ancient rulers on this trip throughout the country. Start and end in Cairo and make your way down to Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel. Instead of domestic flights, you will hop on luxurious sleeper trains for your journey.

13 days  / from 5499 USD

Cairo & a luxurious Dahabieh sailing cruise

Explore Egypt at a leisurely pace on board a dahabieh, a traditional sailing ship. In Cairo, visit the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, and in Giza, the pyramids; cruise to world-renowned sites alongside lesser-known treasures, such as Luxor’s tombs, el Kab and Gebel Silsileh’s Temple of Horemheb.

8 days  / from 2200 USD

A Nile Cruise in Egypt

Experience Cairo with the pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian museum before flying to Luxor to board your Nile cruise. Highlights include Karnak temple, Valley of Kings, Hatshepsut temple and an optional visit to Abu Simbel. Spend your last night in fascinating Cairo.

8 days  / from 2900 USD

Five Star Egypt

A tour through the ancient wonders of Giza, Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Start and end your trip in beautiful Cairo, exploring the surroundings before heading down to Aswan: you will spend four nights on a luxurious Nile cruise ship, discovering ancient sites such as Abu Simbel.

7 days  / from 1999 USD

An introduction to Egypt

Marvel at the pyramids in Giza, explore busy Cairo, sleep on a luxurious sleeper train and explore more temples close to Luxor. This itinerary is fast-paced, with several nights in Cairo at the beginning and end, enabling you to see many fascinating sights in Egypt.

What's the weather like in Egypt in April?

April in Egypt offers delightful weather with temperatures gradually rising. Cairo and the Nile Valley experience daytime temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F), while coastal areas like Alexandria and Sharm El Sheikh enjoy slightly higher temperatures around 23°C to 29°C (73°F to 84°F).

It's a great time to cruise the Nile, dive into the Red Sea's vibrant coral reefs, or venture into the desert for unique experiences. However, be prepared for occasional sandstorms in desert regions.

Warmer evenings make it the perfect time to cruise the Nile in a felucca (just look out for the springtime khamsin wind, which can whip sand up from the desert).

Planning your visit in another month? Read our page about the best time to visit Egypt .

The weather in Egypt in April is favourable, as it continues to be warm and pleasant.

With longer days, blooming landscapes in the Western Desert, and various cultural festivals, it offers an excellent opportunity to explore archaeological wonders, enjoy outdoor activities, and experience the local culture.

Egypt is warm in April. As spring progresses, temperatures continue to rise in most parts of the country, making April a generally warm and pleasant time to visit Egypt.

In locations such as Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan, average high temperatures in April range from around 25 to 32°C (77 to 90°F). These temperatures provide a warm and comfortable climate for outdoor activities and exploring historical sites. Average low temperatures during the night range from approximately 15 to 20°C (59 to 68°F).

On the Red Sea coast, including popular beach destinations like Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh, temperatures are slightly higher. Average highs in April can range from 28 to 33°C (82 to 91°F), making it ideal for beach activities, snorkeling, and diving.

April is a relatively dry month in Egypt, with limited rainfall across the country. Major cities like Cairo, Luxor , and Aswan typically experience minimal precipitation during this time.

Coastal areas along the Red Sea, such as Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh, may encounter occasional light showers, but they are infrequent. Overall, April provides mild temperatures and sunny days, creating ideal conditions for sightseeing, desert excursions, and beach activities.

There are several festivals and events that take place in Egypt during the month of February. Here are some of them:

• Eid al-Fitr (9 April in 2023; dates governed by the Muslim lunar calendar): Feast of Breaking the Fast, ‘Id al-Fitr, celebrates the end of Ramadan, the month of daytime fasting. During Ramadan, Muslims abstain from food, drink and sex during daylight hours. Business and social life, centring on the meal eaten after sunset, called iftar, becomes nocturnal and intense.
• Sinai Liberation Day (25 April) The day of the final withdrawal of the Israeli military from the Sinai in 1982.
• Cairo Jazz Festival (dates vary): A renowned music festival featuring jazz performances by local and international artists.
• Sinai Trail Ultra Marathon (dates vary): A challenging trail running event that takes participants through the stunning landscapes of the Sinai Peninsula.

For more practical guidance that will help you make the most of your trip, have a chat with our local Egypt experts , who can help you plan your dream trip.

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• Guide To Egypt In April: The Confluence Of Ancient History And Modern Luxuries

23 Mar 2023

Cover Image Credit: Pixabay

Home to one of the world’s oldest civilizations, Egypt is a treasure trove of ancient history and grand monuments. Tourists are drawn to Egypt in April like bees towards a honeypot. The Grand structures and millenia worth of history are not the only things that bring tourists to its shores. Egypt also has the Red Sea to thank for much of its tourist economy.

The azure waters of Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada are home to beautiful sea life, coloured fish and spectacular formations of coral reefs. If you are planning a visit to Egypt in April, then this guide will enable you to make this process a little easier.

Weather In Egypt In April

The weather in Egypt in April is warm but comfortable. Depending on which city you are in, the temperatures vary between 21 to 32 degrees Celsius. Since, April marks the end of spring the nights can still be a little nippy. The days are warm and mildly humid and there is little to no rain, so you need to pack your bags accordingly.

Things To Consider When You Visit Egypt In April

April marks the end of the spring as well as the end of the tourist heavy season. As a result, accommodation and travel is cheaper than the previous months. The souvenir markets are thinner hence, this is the best time to haggle and get the best bang for your buck. Healthwise, you need to pack sunglasses, sunscreen, hats and clothing made up of either cotton or linen.

5 Places To Visit In Egypt In April

Here is a list of the most famous tourist attractions you can visit in Egypt in April:

1. Pyramids Of Giza

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The Pyramids of Giza are one of the most visited attractions in the world. These great structures were built around 4000 years ago and are considered one of the seven wonders of the world. A group of supremely skilled masons, stonecutters and mathematicians completed the building of the pyramids known as Mycerinus, Chephren and Cheops. Most of these were made to serve as tombs of deceased Pharaohs. It is still a mystery as to how it was possible to achieve this great feat of engineering so early in civilization with such primitive tools. If you’re planning a trip to Egypt in April, then this should be at the top of your list.

Must Read: 9 Most Magnificent Egyptian Monuments That Will Put You In A Trance

2. Abu Simbel Temples

Over a few centuries, shifting sand had obscured the view of the Abu Simbel Temples from human eyes. The Swiss explorer, John Burkhardt accidentally discovered this marvel back in 1813. The Sun Temple of King Ramses II has a huge rock-cut facade. Guarding the gargantuan entrance and carved out of the side of the mountain sit four statues of Ramses II himself. The King had the temple built at such an angle that, twice a year, the sun illuminated the inner sanctum. Do make time to visit this amazing structure.

Suggested Read: A 4000 Year Old Tomb In Egypt Has Just Been Opened For Public & It’ll Leave Your Mind-Boggled!

3. Luxor And Karnak Temples

The temples of Luxor and Karnak are only second in massive popularity to the pyramids. These ancient relics combine to form one of the largest temple complexes in the whole world. Different iterations and temples were added over centuries by the different pharaohs. The temple complex is made up of 4 different sections, but only one of them, Amun-Re is open to the general public. There are a number of structures made of sandstones including statues of old kings and pharaohs that make them a wonderful sight to behold. It takes about a full day to explore the complex, so plan accordingly.

Suggested Read: 20 Unique Things To Do In Egypt That No Travel Guide Will Ever Tell You About

One of ancient Egypt’s most interesting cities is Abydos. This city fascinates archaeologists the most in all of Egypt and we can guarantee you will share the same fascination when you visit this great city. The temple of Seti forms the focal point of the site. It contains the majority of Ancient Egypt’s pharaohs. Something incredibly mysterious is revealed at every turn and every glance that you make around here. A mysterious set of hieroglyphics will surely baffle you as a visitor as it depicts, what look like, submarines, choppers and planes.

Suggested Read: Newly Discovered 4,400-Year Old Tomb In Egypt Is Stealing Giza’s Thunder Big Time

5. Valley Of The Kings

The Valley of Kings is about 4000 years old and situated in Luxor. Nowhere else is the egyptians’ belief in afterlife more pronounced than this place. Constructed to store the mummies of old pharaohs enclosed in sarcophagi and lead them towards the afterlife. Some of the most popular tombs here include those of Amenhotep II, Ramses II and of course King Tutankhamun. So, pack your bags to come here, explore and gain passage into the afterlife.

Suggested Read: 17 Mystical Places To Visit In Egypt, The Gift Of The Nile!

5 Activities To Try In Egypt In April

Along with the places you visit, don’t forget to try out the following things to create a memorable holiday:

1. Enjoy A Camel Ride In The Wadi Gimal National Park

The Wadi Gimal National Park aka Valley of the Camels is about an hour from Marsa Alam. Known for its gold and emeralds in earlier centuries, Wadi Gimal still harbors a lot of treasure, albeit in the form of nature. Acacia trees, mountains and thick mangrove jungles populate the otherwise lunar scenery in the background. A camel ride in this valley gives you a chance to marvel at these wonders as well as some wild gazelles found in the area.

Suggested Read: Celebrate New Year In Egypt: Sail Into At This Egyptian Paradise

2. Go Souvenir Shopping In Port Ghalib

A number of gift shops are sprinkled throughout Marsa Alam. These shops sell papyrus, egyptian cotton and alabaster statues. But, you can go to Port ghalib if you are in search of souvenirs. Family-run shops are lined on the pavement selling you traditional Egyptian clothing and pottery items. You can also find jewellery and perfumes in these markets.

Suggested Read: Egypt In November: Wonderful Experiences To Try On The Land Of Pyramids

3. Bargain At The El Dahar Souk

El Dahar area in downtown Hurghada gives you a proper glimpse into the life of Egyptians. Originally a fishing village, it’s now home to shops lined with traditional items, old harbours and the local fish market. The labyrinth of Shops and stalls in the El Dahar Souk can be overwhelming at first but once you get used to the hustle of the market, then you can easily get something dirt cheap if you can haggle.

Suggested Read: Shopping In Egypt: 13 Places To Shop In The Country

4. Sahara Safari In A Jeep

The thought of traversing across an endless stretch of sand could be exhausting, but toss a Jeep safari into the mix and you are golden. Desert safaris will carry you across the sand dunes till you reach a local nomad Bedouin village. Here you get down for a breather and the villagers serve you with snacks and tea. Then you head out on your quad bikes to explore the surrounding desert.

Suggested Read: Egypt Wildlife: 8 Best Natural Reserves Of Egypt To Attract Every Wildlife Lover

5. Visit The St Catherine’s Monastery On Mt Sinai

St Catherine’s Monastery is the oldest Christian monastery in the world. Pilgrims are drawn to this place in hordes. It’s a good 3 hour drive from Sharm el Sheikh, but pilgrims and tourists throng the place in huge numbers. The Mt Sinai collection of manuscripts also draw history enthusiasts in huge numbers. Do make time to visit here on your trip to egypt.

Further Read: 10 Best Honeymoon Places In Egypt To Visit For A Romantic Stint By The Pyramids

Egypt in April is less crowded which gives you the perfect opportunity to explore the sites and attractions in a more natural setting. This guide has been formulated in a way to help you to acquire as much knowledge as you can to plan your next Egyptian holiday.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions For Egypt In April

Is April a good time to visit Egypt?

If you are concerned about weather, then the best time to visit Egypt would be during the northern hemisphere fall, winter or early spring and April comes under that!

What airport is closest to the pyramids in Egypt?

The closest international airport to the pyramids is in Cairo, which is roughly an hour’s drive and 50 km away.

What are the best traditional Egyptian delicacies?

Here are a few amazing delicacies from Egypt: Ful Medames, Falafel, Koshari, Mahshi and Molokhia.

What are the top restaurants for Mediterannean food in Egypt?

SACHI Restaurant, Zööba, and Osmanly are some amazing restaurants serving Mediterannean as well as Arabic food.

Do people in Egypt drink?

Egyptians don’t drink alcohol in law with Islamic traditions, but locally brewed beer is served in tourist-orientated restaurants.

How much cash can I carry to Egypt?

So, there is a limit of at least 5,000 Egyptian pounds that you are allowed to bring in or take out of Egypt.

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When is the best time to visit Egypt?

• Month-by-month

The best time to visit Egypt is between October and April, when temperatures are cooler, but still pleasantly warm across the country. This makes exploring the busy streets of Cairo, visiting the Pyramids in the desert, and exploring ancient Pharaonic tombs more comfortable and enjoyable.

The summer season (May to September) is hot, although the high temperatures are alleviated by very dry air, air conditioning, far fewer visitors and lower prices. This means summer is still a viable season for your trip. There also tends to be a bit of a breeze on the Nile, making a river cruise a good choice during this period.

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Month-by-month guide for traveling in Egypt

Visiting Egypt in January - March

January through to March is usually sunny and warm, with occasional rain. This is within the peak traveling season as temperatures are cooler and more comfortable than in the summer months, which means that hotels, cruises and sites can get very busy; particularly around the new year period.

Events & Festivals

• The West Bank Marathon (late January or early February): This 22 km (14 mile) marathon is held on the banks of the Nile. Explore Luxor's West Bank with our activity idea.

Visiting Egypt in April - May

The weather gets warmer but is still pleasant during April and May, making this a very popular time to visit. The Khamsin Wind, a minor but extremely hot sandstorm, sweeps across Egypt for a few days at some point during April and May, but does not usually cause any major disruption. Easter is one of the busiest times to travel in Egypt, and prices rise accordingly.

• Sham el-Nessim: A Coptic festival of Pharaonic origin which celebrates the coming of spring. This is held on Easter Monday according to the Coptic calendar, and is celebrated with picnics in parks and on riverbanks throughout the country. View our Churches & Synagogues of Old Cairo activity idea.

Visiting Egypt in June

June is the start of the scorching heat of the summer, but temperatures are not yet at their peak. This can therefore be a great time to visit if you don't mind the heat as prices are much lower than they are during the milder months of the year.

Visiting Egypt in July - August

This is the peak of the summer and temperatures are very high. However, if your hotel has air conditioning and a swimming pool, or if you simply want to relax on a Nile cruise , this can be a great time to visit. Far fewer people travel to Egypt during the summer months, which means that you can escape the crowds at most tourist sites and make the most of some fantastic photographic opportunities.

Visiting Egypt in September

The weather in September is quite similar to that in June; temperatures are still high but sea breezes make the heat more bearable and prices are usually lower than they are between October and May. This can be the best time to visit places such as the Red Sea as you'll escape both school vacations and the crowds of the autumn/winter peak season. 

Visiting Egypt in October - December

The weather is much cooler during the winter months, though still warm, making it an ideal time to visit the cultural sites of Egypt in comfort. However, this is also the busiest time of year for Egypt. Over Christmas and New Year, hotels and cruises raise their rates significantly and rooms/cabins get booked far in advance, so it is advisable to plan your trip early.

Egypt Climate Guide

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Practical tips for traveling to Egypt, from social protocols to guidance on money matters, with a link to the latest US State Department travel advice.

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Egypt: Awe-inspiring, Always, Totally

Egypt Weather in April: A Detailed Overview

When it comes to planning a visit to Egypt, understanding the country’s weather conditions is essential.

April, one of the most pleasant months in Egypt, offers a unique blend of moderate temperatures and lower crowds, making it an excellent time to explore the country’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Egypt in April: An Overview

Egypt’s weather in April is a delightful mix of warm days and cooler nights, a stark contrast to the extreme temperatures experienced in the summer months. The average temperature during the day hovers around 25-30°C (77-86°F), making it a comfortable time for sightseeing and exploring the country’s numerous tourist attractions. However, the desert regions can get significantly hotter, with temperatures often reaching up to 35°C (95°F).

April falls during Egypt’s shoulder season, a time when the country experiences fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist months. This period offers a respite from the bustling crowds, providing tourists with a more relaxed and intimate experience of the country’s rich historical and cultural offerings.

The Climate of Egypt in April

April in Egypt marks the transition from spring to the scorching heat of summer. The weather is generally hot but bearable, with an average of 9-10 hours of sun each day. The desert regions, however, can experience high temperatures, making it imperative for visitors to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.

Rainfall in Egypt during April is minimal, with the monthly rainfall averaging less than an inch. Wet weather is rare, particularly in the southern parts of the country. The northern coastal regions and the Sinai Peninsula may experience a bit more rain, but it’s usually short-lived and doesn’t significantly impact travel plans.

Cairo Weather in April

Cairo, Egypt’s bustling capital city, experiences an average temperature of around 28°C (82°F) in April. The weather in Cairo during this month is generally warm and dry, with minimal chances of rain. The city’s popular destinations like the Egyptian Museum and the Pyramids of Giza are less crowded, making April an ideal time to visit.

Red Sea Coast: A Paradise in April

The Red Sea coast, home to popular resort towns like Sharm El Sheikh, offers a unique weather pattern in April. The sea temperature averages around 22°C (72°F), making it a perfect time for water-based activities such as snorkeling and diving. The Red Sea coast offers a refreshing respite from the heat of the desert regions, with temperatures averaging around 27°C (81°F) during the day and dropping to a comfortable 20°C (68°F) at night.

Sinai Peninsula: A Blend of History and Weather

The Sinai Peninsula, a region steeped in history and natural beauty, experiences a pleasant climate in April. The weather is warm during the day, with temperatures averaging around 28°C (82°F), and cooler at night. The region’s popular destinations, such as St. Catherine’s Monastery and Mount Sinai, are less crowded, providing a serene and tranquil experience.

Egypt’s Festivals in April

April is a significant month in Egypt, with two major celebrations taking place – Sinai Liberation Day and Coptic Orthodox Easter. These events bring a unique festive atmosphere to the country, with vibrant processions, traditional music, and delicious Egyptian cuisine.

Conclusion: Is April a Good Time to Visit Egypt?

April’s weather conditions make it an excellent time to visit Egypt . The temperatures are comfortable, the crowds are lesser, and the country is abuzz with festivals. Whether you’re planning a trip to the bustling city of Cairo, the tranquil beaches of the Red Sea coast, or the historical sites of the Sinai Peninsula, April offers an ideal climate for all your Egyptian adventures.

The Nightlife in Egypt in April

When the sun sets, Egypt in April offers a different kind of charm. The cooler night temperatures, averaging around 15°C (59°F), provide the perfect backdrop for a hot air balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings, or a tranquil walk along the Nile in Cairo. The resort towns along the Red Sea coast and the Sinai Peninsula also come alive with beach parties and vibrant nightlife.

The Windy Weather in April

April in Egypt is known for its windy weather, particularly in the desert regions and along the Red Sea coast. Known as the “khamsin,” these winds can cause sandstorms, which, while not dangerous, can be a nuisance for tourists. Travel advice during this time includes carrying eye protection and staying hydrated.

What to Pack for Egypt in April

Given the hot weather and high temperatures during the day, it’s advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing. Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. For the cooler nights, a light jacket or sweater would be necessary. If visiting the Red Sea coast or resort towns, swimsuits, and beachwear are a must.

Egypt’s Attractions in April

From the Great Pyramids of Giza to the Valley of the Kings, Egypt’s tourist attractions are less crowded in April, making it an ideal time for sightseeing. The pleasant weather conditions make outdoor activities such as exploring the Karnak Temple Complex in Luxor or taking a felucca ride on the Nile River an enjoyable experience.

April is also a great time to visit the Red Sea coast, where you can indulge in water sports, relax on the sandy beaches, or explore the vibrant coral reefs. The resort towns of Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada provide a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

The Unique Experience of Egypt in April

April’s weather, combined with the lesser crowds and the vibrant festivals, offers a unique experience of Egypt. Whether you’re exploring the ancient wonders of the country, soaking up the sun on the Red Sea coast, or immersing yourself in the local culture and festivities, Egypt in April is sure to provide a memorable holiday.

FAQ about Egypt Weather April

Is it safe to swim in egypt in april.

Yes, swimming in Egypt in April is generally safe and enjoyable. The sea temperatures around Egypt’s resort towns and the Red Sea coast average around 23°C (74°F), making it ideal for water activities.

Is Egypt a good destination to visit in April?

Absolutely, April is a great time to visit Egypt. The weather is comfortably warm, perfect for exploring Egypt’s bustling cities, ancient pyramids, and Pharaonic tombs.

Is April an ideal time to travel to Egypt?

Yes, April is indeed an excellent time to travel to Egypt. The temperatures are cooler than the summer months, and the country offers a warm and pleasant climate for exploration and sightseeing.

Does Egypt experience warm weather in April?

April weather in Egypt is warm with temperatures gradually increasing. Cities like Cairo and the Nile Valley have daytime temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F), while coastal areas enjoy slightly higher temperatures.

Is April a favorable month to plan a trip to Egypt?

Definitely, April is one of the best months to plan a trip to Egypt. The weather during this time is pleasant, falling in the autumn, spring, and winter seasons, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploration.

Can I enjoy a swim in Egypt’s waters in April?

Yes, you certainly can. In April, the sea temperatures in Hurghada and other resort towns are warm, averaging 23°C (74°F), making it suitable for a pleasant swim.

What are the average temperatures in Cairo in April?

In April, Cairo experiences an average temperature of around 15 to 28°C (59 to 82°F), with about nine hours of sunlight per day.

Is it warm enough to swim in Egypt in April?

Yes, the sea water temperature in April is around 74°F on average, making it warm enough for a comfortable swim in resort towns like Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and others.

How is the weather in Egypt during April?

In April, Egypt’s coastal towns, Cairo, and Alexandria enjoy high temperatures between 84°F and 89°F during the day, with evenings cooling off to about 50 to 60°F. In the south, it’s considerably hotter.

Is Egypt hot in April?

In April, Egypt starts to heat up with average temperatures in Cairo ranging from 15 to 28°C (59 to 82°F). Areas surrounding the Aswan Dam can expect hotter weather with temperatures reaching 19 to 35°C (66 to 95°F).

Is April a suitable time to visit Cairo?

Yes, April is an excellent time to visit Cairo. The weather during this time offers a comfortable season of light breeze and mild temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploration.

Is the sea water in Egypt warm?

Yes, the sea water in Egypt is warm to hot all year round, with average water temperatures of 23 degrees, making it suitable for swimming and other water activities.

Is Egypt too hot to visit in April?

While April marks the beginning of the hot season in Egypt, the temperatures are still bearable, with daytime highs between 77 to 86°F, making it a comfortable time to visit.

Is it a good time to plan a trip to Egypt in April?

Indeed, April is a good time to plan a trip to Egypt. The temperatures are cooler yet pleasantly warm, making it comfortable and enjoyable to explore Egypt’s busy streets, ancient pyramids, and Pharaonic tombs.

Best time to visit Egypt

The best time to visit Egypt is between October and April when daytime temperatures are comfortable and nights are cool, but you’re still guaranteed sun. The conditions are perfect for exploring chaotic Cairo or venturing into the desert.

As a mostly dry country, Egypt  is blessed with lots of sunshine and very little rain. The hottest months are June through August, and the coolest is January. Rainfall is almost non-existent, except on the coast – and when it does happen it’s between December and March. Highs can reach 40°C during summer, which can be quite demanding in crowded streets and souqs, but great for snorkelling off the beaches of Sinai.

Along with the weather, there’s a few other things to consider when planning an Egyptian adventure. Ultimately, the best time to visit depends on the experience you want, so we’ve put together this guide to help you.

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Much like its north-African neighbour, Morocco , there's a surge in tourism between November and February when temps are cooler, so visiting in the spring (March/April) or autumn (September/October) is ideal if you want to dodge intense heat and large crowds. But when’s better – spring or autumn? If you can take your pick, autumn is generally better as spring brings the khamaseen – a hot sand wind occurring irregularly in the first half of the year. Don’t let that put you off, though! It’s not a constant sandstorm, but relatively short blasts that can last a few hours.

As a predominantly Islamic country, Ramadan is one of the most significant events. Held over a month (the dates change each year), Ramadan is a time of spiritual rejuvenation. Fasting occurs from sunrise to sunset, and restaurants, cafes and markets may reduce their opening hours. Non-Muslims aren’t expected to observe the fast, but you should exercise common sense, like avoiding drinking and snacking in the street.

Despite a bit of disruption and a slower pace, it’s an eye-opening and fulfilling cultural experience. You’ll witness hundreds or thousands of worshippers visiting local mosques for evening prayers before taking to the streets to enjoy iftar (the breaking of the fast meal). You may also get to experience Eid al-Fitr, a lively three-day festival to celebrate the end of Ramadan.

Cruising the Nile means river breezes and cooler temperatures all year, right? Think again. Some places you’ll visit – like Luxor and Aswan – get mighty hot in the depths of summer, often topping 45°C! Most cruise vessels are air-conditioned, but some old-school feluccas rely on mother nature’s air conditioning. Some high-end boats have pools, which is ideal for hot afternoons cruising past the sun-baked landscapes.

Consider the facilities on your boat and your tolerance to heat, but as a rule of thumb, spring and autumn provide the ideal temperatures to experience one of the world’s most iconic rivers.

Best for: great weather and exploring the sites.

January is the ‘coolest’ month. Daytime highs linger in the low 20s, and sunshine is plentiful, so it's an excellent time to explore ancient sites or peruse busy souks without melting in the heat. Evenings and early mornings can be chilly, so you’ll need a warm fleece and a scarf. Northern Egypt is usually cooler; storms occasionally hit the Sinai Peninsula, but it’s rare. Just note that January is the height of the peak season, so expect throngs of tourists and longer queues.

Best for: comfortable temperatures, Abu Simbel Sun Festival.

Great weather rolls into February, with slightly warmer temperatures when the sun goes down (though you’ll still need warm layers for the evening). It’s still swamped with tourists, but the weather lends itself to exploring the Pyramids and Luxor's Temples. February is one of the coldest months in Europe , so an Egypt trip could be the perfect way to get some winter sun!

If you time it well, you could align your trip with the Abu Simbel Sun Festival, a bi-annual event at the Temple of Ramses II on 22 February and October. The ancient architects of this incredible temple designed it so that for only two days, the sun would align perfectly to illuminate the temple's holiest (and usually dark) chambers. Join locals to celebrate with traditional Nubian dance, street food and live music outside the temple.

Best for: comfortable weather, thinning crowds.

March is warmer than January and February, but not so hot that you’ll sweat buckets. As a shoulder month, you’ll have fewer tourists to share the wonders of Egypt's ruins with (and fewer floating heads in your selfies!). The khamaseen (a hot, dry wind) usually starts in March and can occasionally cause sandstorms. Bear in mind that it can get rather dusty and your travel plans may be disrupted, so be prepared to change your plans for a day or two.

Best for: dwindling crowds, enjoying the coast, Sham El-Nessim.

While still considered spring, things start heating up in April, and you can expect daytime highs between a bearable 25 to 30℃. The khamaseen is still blowing, though it’s not as intense as March. With rising temps and crowds thinning out even more, it’s an ideal time to head for the coast to enjoy slightly quieter beaches and snorkelling.

You might also get to experience Sham El-Nessim, celebrated by all faiths in Egypt. Join locals to welcome the arrival of spring by feasting on salted fish, painting eggs and playing games along the Nile.

Best for: exploring Aswan, cruising the Nile.

May sees hot, sunny days and balmy evenings. With the wind calming down and temperatures yet to peak, it’s a great month to head to Aswan – Egypt's southernmost city – to explore the beautiful Temple of Isis (the Goddess of health, marriage and wisdom) and learn about Nubian village life. From here, you can jump aboard a felucca (traditional Egyptian sailing boat) to sail down the iconic Nile. There aren't usually as many boats in the water in May, so you’ll get front-row seats to the sunset.

Best for: fewer tourists, enjoying the Red Sea coast.

June marks the start of the sweltering summer heat. The sun can be oppressive during the day, with temperatures hitting 35 to 40℃. If you don’t mind waking up earlier to explore and getting sweaty, the upside is that there’ll be fewer tourists at the Pyramids, Valley of Kings and other famous landmarks. For a reprieve from the heat, head to the glittering waters of Hurghada on the Red Sea coast, where you'll find slightly cooler temps and a light sea breeze – just be prepared for it to be busy.

Best for: Eid Al Adha, small crowds and minimal queues.

Sweat-inducing temps continue in July, so perhaps steer clear if you don’t cope well with the heat. That being said, you may enjoy a July trip if you want to discover all the must-see sites which are usually swarming with tourists (it's one of the quietest months). It’s best to wake up early and make the most of the evenings when the temperature drops. July is also an interesting time to be in Egypt with Eid Al Adha   (Feast of Sacrifice), a major four-day Islamic festival involving prayers and meat feasts.

Best for: history buffs wanting to soak up the magic of Egypt.

August is hot (like, really hot), and so it's one of the quietest months. With practically no queues at all the landmarks and museums, you can take your time and don't need to worry about holding up the line when you get fixated on something fascinating (it'll happen a lot!). Just note that August is the peak season for domestic travellers, but they usually flock to the beaches and resorts along the coast.

Best for: diving and snorkelling, Coptic New Year, Milad un Nabi.

The summer heat subsides in September (especially towards the end of the month), and domestic holidayers head home. Mid-September marks the start of the best snorkelling and diving conditions - head to the Red Sea Marine Park in Hurghada where you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel one of the most magnificent reefs.

It’s also a busy month in the events calendar with Muslims celebrating Milad un Nabi, a public holiday held in honour of the Prophet Mohammed’s birthday, and Christians celebrating Coptic New Year (celebration of martyrs).

Best for: snorkelling, cooler weather, Simbel Sun Festival, Siyaha Harvest Festival.

Crowds begin arriving at the end of the month, but it’s not too packed. The southern regions might still be too hot for folks unaccustomed to the heat. For an immersive cultural experience, head to the Siwa Oasis in Siyaha for the full moon harvest festival where you'll witness dancing, chanting and a nighttime prayer circle. October also sees the second event of the bi-annual Abu Simbel Sun Festival at the Temple of Ramses.

Best for: snorkelling, Cairo International Film Festival, Arab Music Festival.

Things are in full swing again now that the weather is more manageable. The conditions are perfect for long days exploring historic sites or getting lost in Cairo’s maze-like streets. It’s a bustling time to be in Egypt with the Cairo International Film Festival, attracting worldwide film lovers. Music buffs might also like the Arab Music Festival at the Cairo Opera House.

Best for: Nile cruises, a lively atmosphere, exploring in comfortable temperatures.

December is one of the busiest months in Egypt. It’s not too hot during the day, nights are cool and the streets are buzzing. Despite the masses of tourists, there’s loads going on and transport and activities are generally more accessible than other times of the year. Whether you want to lounge on the beach, visit the desert or cruise down the Nile, you can do it all in December.

The best times to visit Cairo

Jan 18, 2024 • 4 min read

Choose the best time for your visit to Cairo with this seasonal guide © Mltz / Shutterstock

If you're thinking of  Egypt , you might be conjuring up images of the Pyramids , pharaohs and the Nile.

At the heart of the country is Cairo . The capital city attracts countless tourists every year, coming to see the Great Pyramids of Giza , the Egyptian Museum and the city's  other splendors . It's a famously hot and busy place, and to experience everything it has to offer to the fullest, there are certain times of the year that are better for visiting than others.

Whatever it is you’re after, plan the perfect time for your trip to Cairo with this seasonal guide.

October to December is best if you want to avoid the infamous heat

Average daytime temperatures are the coolest they will be all year in the months of October, November and December, and the evenings usher in refreshing breezes. However, it’s also prime tourist season in Cairo as visitors flock here to go sightseeing while the temperatures are cooler. As a result, there’s a surge in flight and hotel prices, particularly around the Christmas holidays.

While visiting at this time of year is tempting because of the weather, keep in mind that the main attractions will be busy, and you'll need to book flights and hotels at least two months in advance to ensure decent prices and availability.

Sandstorms are a possibility in March

Early March is a less busy time to visit Cairo and the weather is pleasant, but it’s also the month where sandstorms are most likely to occur. This is when wind blows from the desert in the south, circulating hot air and dust – very unpleasant, particularly for anyone with asthma. Sightseeing can be disrupted and it's difficult to get from place to place. In extreme cases, flights and river cruises are cancelled.

If you visit Cairo during sandstorm season, pack sunglasses to help keep sand and dirt out of your eyes, and always carry a face mask and a bottle of water.

Celebrate Sham An Nessim on Easter Monday

Sham An Nessim is an Egyptian national festival, dating back to at least 2700 BCE, held on Easter Monday to mark the beginning of spring. Ancient Egyptians believed that the festival marked the beginning of world creation, when “Ra” the Sun God sailed with his boat through the skies and landed on the top of the Great Pyramid.

To celebrate, people paint, decorate and write wishes on eggs before hanging them in baskets in the hope that the wishes will come true. Sham An Nessim celebrations mainly take place in people's homes, but visitors may notice seasonal changes to menus at this time. The dishes most closely associated with Sham An Nessim are feseekh (salted fish eaten with spring onions) and  ringa  (smoked herring with lemon and onion).

April and May are great months for visiting Cairo

Spring is a magical time to be in Cairo. The winter crowds are less and the weather is gorgeous with average temperatures between 25°C and 32°C (77–90°F), hotter than it is from October to December but not as hot as it is in the summer. Flight and hotel prices are reasonable at this time.

The summer months of June to September are the hottest time to visit

The summer season in Egypt typically spans from June to September and it can be sweltering, with temperatures ranging from 30°C to 40°C (86–104°F), occasionally even reaching 50°C (122°F). It’s the hottest time of the year, with many tourists and locals going to the Red Sea , and not as many visitors in Cairo.

If you do choose to come to Cairo at this time, all is not lost. Certain sights, such as the historic Pyramids of Giza, are best visited early in the morning before the heat takes its toll. Almost all the museums, restaurants, hotels and shops have air-conditioning, helping make the heat manageable. Pack sunglasses, sunscreen and carry a bottle of water with you so you can remain hydrated at all times. 

Can I visit Egypt during Ramadan?

As a predominantly Islamic country, Ramadan is one of Egypt’s most significant events. Held over a month, fasting during Ramadan occurs from sunrise to sunset. During this period, restaurants, cafes, shops and markets reduce their opening hours, which may not make it the most ideal time to visit. Even schools close early.

Non-Muslims aren’t expected to observe the fast, but out of respect should avoid drinking and snacking in the street. The exact month changes every year because it depends on the sightings of the moon, so check when Ramadan is expected before making your travel plans.

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Destination Practicalities

Mar 12, 2024 • 4 min read

With tombs, pyramids and towering temples, Egypt brings out the explorer in all of us. This handy month-by-month guide shows the best time to visit Egypt.

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The Ultimate Egypt Packing List

Here’s all the clothing, shoes, gear, and accessories you need for your first trip to Egypt.

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Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

The allure of a trip to Egypt is undeniable; the bucket-list destination is one of the world's oldest and most intriguing countries with an equally rich modern culture to match. Still, Egypt gets extremely hot (we’re talking up to 109 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer months), and has a predominantly Muslim population, so there are things to consider when curating a packing list as a visitor.

You won’t want to get caught wearing inappropriate garments or becoming too sweaty to enjoy the experience, so we spoke to a handful of Egypt travel experts to get their insights on exactly what you’ll want to pack (and other important tips to keep in mind).

This guide will help ensure you’ve got everything you might not have thought about for your trip to Egypt — but don’t forget your usual travel essentials as well! It’s pretty easy to find replacement toiletries or electronics while in Cairo but nobody wants to spend their vacation hunting for something instead of sightseeing.

Packing Checklist for Egypt

Packing for Egypt takes a little extra planning than, say, Spain or Italy, but with a little thoughtfulness you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable experience. Here are all the things you need in one comprehensive vacation checklist.

• Best Long-sleeved Top for Women: Toomet Women's UPF 50+ UV Sun Protection Shirt
• Best Short-sleeved Top for Men: Coofandy Men's Cotton Linen Henley Shirt
• Best Pants for Women: Amazon Essentials Women's Linen Blend Drawstring Wide Leg Pant
• Best Pants for Men: iWoo Mens Cotton Linen Drawstring Pants
• Best Long Skirt: Simlu Maxi Skirt for Women
• Best Maxi Dress: Kranda Round Neck Short Flutter Sleeve Smocked Ruffle Floral Maxi Dress
• Best Swimsuit for Women: Summersalt The Sidestroke 
• Best Swim Trunks: Lululemon Pool Short
• Best Coverup: L*Space Sungazer Dress
• Best Sneakers for Women: Adidas Women's Cloudfoam Pure-2.0 Running Shoe
• Best Sneakers for Men: Adidas Men's Kaptir 2.0 Running Shoe
• Best Sandals for Women: Sandalup Women's Elastic Flat Sandals
• Best Sandals for Men: Birkenstock Men's Arizona Grip Horween Slides
• Best Comfortable Flats for Women: Margaux The Demi Flat
• Best Comfortable Dress Shoes for Men: Cole Haan Men's Grand Atlantic Oxford
• Best Camera: Sony Alpha 7R V Full-frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera
• Best Tripod: Amazon Basics 50-inch Lightweight Camera Mount
• Best Power Bank: Anker Portable Charger
• Best Sunscreen: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Body
• Best Insect Repellent: Sawyer Products Picaridin Insect Repellent Lotion
• Best Travel Laundry Bag: Miamica Travel Laundry Bag

Accessories

• Best Belt Bag: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
• Best Lightweight Backpack: Longchamp Le Pliage Backpack
• Best Sunhat for Women: Coolibar Women's Aubrey Wide Brim Beach Hat
• Best Wide-brimmed Hat for Men: Coolibar UPF 50+ Men's Kaden Crushable Ventilated Hat
• Best Sunglasses: Ray-Ban RB2140 Original Wayfarer Sunglasses
• Best Wrap: Happyluxe Wayfarer Travel Shawl Wrap

“Many residents of Egypt tend to dress more conservatively and it’s nice to respect the country you’re entering by dressing in a similar fashion,” says Jasmine Padda, Egypt Destination Specialist for Kensington Tours. “Of course, the standards for tourists are more liberal, the general suggestion is to ensure your shorts/dresses/skirts don’t go above mid-thigh, and that there isn’t excessive cleavage being shown.”

You’ll also want to prioritize sun protection and breathable fabrics that you’ll be able to wear comfortably for the entire day. Egypt gets unbearably hot in the summer months — but even in the spring and fall, you’ll easily find yourself working up a sweat as the day goes on.

Best Long-sleeved Top for Women

Toomet uv sun protection shirt.

Packing a breathable long-sleeved top will likely end up being the most important item in your Egypt wardrobe. Women should plan to dress quite modestly in Egypt but you’ll also want to ensure the garments you pack are going to be moisture-wicking or you’ll wind up overheating in the Egyptian sun. This Toomet Women's UPF 50+ UV Sun Protection Shirt is our top pick in the long-sleeved shirt department. It’s made from a 50+ UPF material that’ll ensure optimal protection from the harsh sun while also providing a very airy feeling against the skin. The loose-fitting shirt is also quick drying so you can easily give it a wash and hang dry in the hotel sink as needed.

Best Short-sleeved Top for Men

Coofandy linen henley shirt.

While men have different considerations when it comes to conservative dressing, you’ll still want to opt for loose-fitting garments to ensure optimal comfort. The Coofandy Men's Cotton Linen Henley Shirt is our favorite short-sleeved top for men due to its versatile style and cotton/linen material. This combination is moisture-wicking, lightweight, and breathable, but the stand collar and button detailing give this option a slightly more sophisticated look than the average linen shirt (which will allow you to style it for semi-formal dinners just as easily as you would to explore the pyramids).

Best Pants for Women

Amazon essentials women's linen blend drawstring wide leg pant.

While you could opt for jeans or cotton trousers while traveling in Egypt, you’ll be far more comfortable in something loose-fitting and breathable like linen drawstring pants. The Amazon Essentials Women's Linen Blend Drawstring Wide Leg Pant is a super versatile option that will provide the same breezy comfort as a pair of shorts but will be much more appropriate while visiting the hot spots in Cairo and beyond. The wide-leg pant features four functional pockets and is also machine washable (read: low maintenance). We also like that this pair comes in a huge array of light colorways to help keep you cool even in the baking hot sun.

Best Pants for Men

Iwoo linen drawstring pants.

The iWoo Mens Cotton Linen Drawstring Pants are going to be the best option for men looking for a cooling and comfortable pair that’ll offer protection from the sun without feeling too stuffy. The linen and cotton blend is moisture-wicking and quick-drying while the relaxed drawstring fit gives these pants a leg up when it comes to all-day comfort during those hours-long guided tours on your feet. This option also has two back pockets with buttons which offer a distinctly more sophisticated look than the average linen pant.

Best Long Skirt

Simlu maxi skirt.

Skirts and dresses are completely appropriate to wear in Egypt — but you’ll want to look for something that hits below the knee as a more respectful style. The Simlu Maxi Skirt for Women is a great option that’ll tick all the right boxes for adventures in Egypt. It’s budget-friendly to start — but it is also crafted with a comfy (and stretchy) modal material that sits snugly at the hips and flares out into an elegant gathered style that is conservative but flowy enough to get really great Instagram photos in front of the Great Sphinx of Giza. It’s available in a wide array of cool colors and prints, including mustard yellow stripes and cheeky black-and-white polka dots.

Best Maxi Dress

Kranda floral maxi dress.

When it comes to travel wardrobe heavy-hitters, a maxi dress is truly the G.O.A.T. You don’t have to worry about mixing and matching multiple pieces — it’s a one-stop-shop that allows you to get dressed and go in an instant. The Kranda Round Neck Short Flutter Sleeve Smocked Ruffle Floral Maxi Dress is a particularly great option for this kind of convenience, especially while traveling through Egypt. The flowing skirt and loose-fitting sleeves are breathable and stylish while still offering a modest silhouette.

Best Swimsuit for Women

Summersalt the sidestroke.

You don’t have to worry as much about modesty if you’re staying at a western resort or hotel, but if you’d still prefer to stick with a one-piece over a bikini in this case, we’re pretty fond of the Sidestroke bathing suit by Summersalt. It packs comfy-yet-flattering compression and a unique one-shoulder design that is both stylish and still efficient for swimming laps (or just lounging by the pool). We also like that this option is size-inclusive; it’s available in sizes 0 to 24.

Best Swim Trunks

Lululemon pool short.

Likewise, men can opt for whatever swim trunks you’d pack for any other resort or warm-weather vacation. The Lululemon Pool Short is our top pick when it comes to a long-lasting and comfortable pair. They’re crafted using a water-repellent and abrasion-resistant fabric which means they’ll dry quickly once you’re out of the water and they also won’t get banged up with regular use. We also really like that these swim trunks are made using more than 80 percent recycled materials, including recycled nylon and recycled polyester.

Best Coverup

L*space sungazer dress.

It doesn’t matter if you’re at a resort in Cancun or Cairo — it’s considered polite to have a decent bathing suit coverup on hand for moving between the restaurants and interior of the hotel to the pool. The L*Space Sungazer Dress is our favorite swimwear coverup for a handful of reasons. It’s a bit on the pricey side, but it’s well worth it if you want an elegant and long-lasting coverup that’ll work just as well (with a tank underneath) at the hotel buffet as it will as a casual evening dress in a pinch. The full-length dress features a deep v-neck, a smocked waist, and subtle side slips for added comfort and visual interest.

“Egypt typically requires a lot of domestic travel to see the most significant points of interest,” points out Padda. “Air travel is popular to make the most of your time, so try and limit your luggage to one checked bag, or better yet, one carry-on per person.” This means being super intentional with your footwear; we suggest going simple with a comfortable pair of running shoes, a sandal, and maybe a pair of evening-appropriate dress shoes if you’re planning to attend more formal dinners at your resort or hotel.

Lastly, if you plan on visiting a mosque, you may want to pack a spare pair of socks, especially if you’re wearing sandals and don’t want to be barefoot indoors.

Best Sneakers for Women

Adidas cloudfoam pure 2.0 running shoes.

You’re going to be on your feet a lot while exploring Egypt — so you’ll want to ensure you have a pair of sneakers that are comfortable and actually broken in. The Adidas Women's Cloudfoam Pure-2.0 Running Shoe are our top pick when it comes to comfy and durable sneakers for travel; they provide superior cushioning and built-in memory foam that protects your feet from impact and the exterior is durable so you won’t need to worry about scuffing your shoes while running around. We also like that this sneaker is made with at least 50 percent recycled materials, and comes in a huge spectrum of colors to best suit your style.

Best Sneakers for Men

Adidas men's kaptir 2.0 running shoe.

Likewise, the Adidas Men's Kaptir 2.0 Running Shoe earns our seal of approval for a comfortable running shoe that will keep going from dawn to dusk. The heavily cushioned sole is inspired by runners — which means you’ll be spared the impact that can sometimes irritate the feet and legs when spending a ton of time walking or running. This sneaker also has a comfortable knit upper and sock-like opening that will help protect ankles and heels from irritation and blisters.

Best Sandals for Women

Sandalup elastic flat sandals.

We named the Sandalup Women's Elastic Flat Sandals as our top pick when it comes to the most comfortable sandals for women — and, once you’ve slipped them onto your feet, you’ll see why. The straps are snug so you don’t have to worry about them rubbing or sliding around on your feet, and they slip on and off so you don’t have to mess around with buckles or ties while on the go. It’s also worth noting that these sandals are comfortable right out of the box; no awkward breaking-in period or blisters required this time.

Best Sandals for Men

Birkenstock men's arizona grip horween slides.

For men (and honestly for women, too), the Birkenstock Men's Arizona Grip Horween Slides are an excellent option for travel. Admittedly, Birkenstocks can sometimes take a little while to break in but once they mold to your feet (while maintaining proper arch support), they’ll work for hours of wear. We also really like that these Birkenstock sandals are made from renewable resources — including natural cork and latex from rubber tree resin — so you can feel good about your purchase

Best Comfortable Flats for Women

Margaux the demi flat.

A timeless pair of comfortable flats is an imperative part of a smart travel wardrobe. Ballet flats are designed to be both casual and classy which means you can wear them pretty much all day and night without worrying about being too dressed up or down. The Demi Flat by Margaux earns our seal of approval for its adjustable bow and the fact that it is a handmade (and customizable) work of art. The shoe is made in Spain using supportive foam padding that, unlike cheaper flats on the market, will actually provide arch support and cushioning for all-day wear.

Best Comfortable Dress Shoes for Men

Cole haan men's grand atlantic oxford.

You likely won’t need dress shoes during the day while exploring Egypt — but if you’re staying at a mid-level resort or hotel you might want to consider packing something a little more formal for the evenings. The Cole Haan Men's Grand Atlantic Oxford isn’t exactly a formal dress shoe in the traditional sense and that’s why we like it. The oxford-style could really be worn both formally and casually which gives you the flexibility to wear it for multiple occasions while traveling. We also really like that this option is made in the U.S. using a unique cushioning technology for extended periods on your feet.

There are certain items you’ll want to remember to pack to make your trip to Egypt as stress-free as possible, such as a portable charger for staying connected throughout the day and ample sunscreen to keep yourself protected from the sun’s rays.

You’ll also want to ensure you bring a copy of the prescription for any meditation that you’ll need while in Egypt. Double-check that any over-the-counter medications you usually pack are permitted in the country as well; the CDC also recommends packing medication like loperamide (Imodium) and ibuprofen just in case.

Best Camera

Sony alpha 7r v.

We know, we know. Smartphone photography has come a long way since the early days of the iPhone — and it’s certainly more convenient than lugging around a huge DSLR and immediately pegging yourself as a tourist. But, trust us, you’re going to want to have genuinely high-quality images produced by a great travel camera to look back on after such a bucket list trip. The Sony Alpha 7R V Full-Frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera is our top pick when it comes to a camera that can do it all and is relatively easy to learn while on the go. The mirrorless camera delivers professional-quality images but it’s surprisingly beginner-friendly thanks to features like adjustable autofocus and artificial intelligence subject recognition.

Best Tripod

Amazonbasics 50-inch tripod.

Investing in a tripod is one of the best ways to ensure you’re getting great photos as a solo traveler but it’s also great for families who don’t want to opt for selfies or always rely on a random passerby to snap photos for the group. The Amazon Basics 50-inch Lightweight Camera Mount is a great option when it comes to affordability and ease-of-use but it’s also super lightweight and not as burdensome to carry around with you. Note that you’ll want to use your judgment when setting up and taking tripod photos; it’s probably not the best idea to try this in particularly crowded tourist zones where you could lose your device.

Best Power Bank

Anker portable charger.

If you’re going to be on the go all day — and you should anticipate it while visiting Egypt — you’ll want to have more than enough juice to fuel your phone all day long. The Anker Portable Charger offers a generous 20,000mAh cell capacity which means it’ll charge the average smartphone about five times over. We also really like that this option is compact and has two different USB ports which allows you to charge two devices at once. It’s also a relatively inexpensive option compared to similar portable chargers on the market right now.

Best Sunscreen

La roche-posay anthelios melt-in milk sunscreen.

It’s hard to pinpoint just one item as the essential must-bring for a trip to Egypt, but a decent sunscreen comes pretty close. We especially love the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Body as it won’t just protect your skin from the rays, but helps to keep it moisturized in the hot and dry weather at the same time. We also really like that this option is non-greasy and fast-absorbing so you won’t feel like you’re slathered in sunblock.

Best Insect Repellent

Sawyer products 20% picaridin insect repellent.

The mosquitos can get pretty rough in certain parts of Egypt (especially at dawn and dusk) so you’ll want to ensure you pack ample bug spray to keep the pests at bay. We like the Sawyer Products Picaridin Insect Repellent Lotion because it protects against ticks and mosquitoes and the diseases they spread — but without the unpleasant odor thanks to its DEET-free, but still effective, 20 percent picaridin formula. (This also means that this repellent is safe to use on kids or those with allergies or sensitivities.) The spray should work for about 12 hours but it’s available in pocket-sized sprays that can easily be thrown into your day bag or backpack as well.

Best Travel Laundry Bag

Miamica travel laundry bag.

Things get dusty in Egypt, like, really dusty. You’ll want to plan to bring a decent laundry bag to keep your grimy items away from your clean clothes until you have the chance to throw them into the wash. Despite the fact that this Miamica Travel Laundry Bag can expand to hold up to a week’s worth of clothing, this option is ultra-lightweight and packs down to next to nothing when it’s empty. It also has a full zip closure so you won’t have to worry about dirt sneaking out and contaminating your clean items.

There are a handful of accessories that will make your trip a lot easier. The tourist hot spots in Egypt, like any other major tourism destination, can be crowded and prone to pickpocketing so you’ll want to opt for a belt bag or inconspicuous backpack to store your valuables. You’ll also want to ensure you have sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat for protection from the bright afternoon sun.

Best Belt Bag

Lululemon everywhere belt bag.

The Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is, in fact, everywhere. But it’s easy to see why. The basic silhouette — a cousin to the fanny pack — is easy to pair with just about anything, from activewear to streetwear.  The water-repellent fabric is designed to last through heavy day-to-day use while the additional interior pockets make it easy to organize and keep track of your gear while on the go. We also really like that this option comes in a huge variety of colors and is easily adjustable to best suit exactly how you want to wear it. (We recommend using it as an over-the-shoulder crossbody with the pouch on your chest for safety and style.)

Best Lightweight Backpack

Longchamp le pliage backpack.

We never travel without a Longchamp Le Pliage Bag; it’s really one of the best unsung heroes of an efficient travel wardrobe. The folding style literally packs down into a tiny square when it’s not in use which means you can easily throw it into your carry-on without taking up any space at all. The Le Pliage backpack is a particularly great option for bringing to Egypt thanks to the lightweight design and durable (and easily washable) nylon exterior that won’t get destroyed in the dust or the hot sun.

Best Sunhat for Women

Coolibar wide brim beach hat.

The Coolibar Women's Aubrey Wide Brim Beach Hat is going to be your best bet for those hot days in the desert or in the city. The casual sun hat blocks 98 percent of UVA/UVB rays but it’s also extremely breathable and won’t leave your head or hair feeling sweaty. This option is available in sizes small and large but it also has a built-in adjustable fastener at the back to ensure it fits your head perfectly — and won’t fly off and into the water when you’re cruising down the Nile.

Best Wide-brimmed Hat for Men

Coolibar ventilated hat.

The Coolibar UPF 50+ Men's Kaden Crushable Ventilated Hat is our top pick when it comes to a smart hot weather hat for men. Like the women’s style, this option offers UPF protection without leaving your head super sweaty. The ventilated hat is also “crushable” which means that you can fold it up to pack among your clothing without ruining its shape. We also like that this hat includes an adjustable chin cord to keep it firmly in place even in windy conditions.

Best Sunglasses

Ray-ban original wayfarer classic.

It doesn’t matter if you’re planning on staying in the city or heading into the desert — you’re going to want to have a good pair of sunglasses on hand. The Ray-Ban RB2140 Original Wayfarer Sunglasses are a classic and will work with just about any existing style thanks to the timeless shape and classic black colorway. The sturdy plastic frame feels solid while on the bridge of the nose but is still lightweight enough to wear all day without worrying about irritation on the sides of the nose.

HappyLuxe Wayfarer Travel Shawl

Keep in mind that Egypt has a predominantly Muslim population which doesn’t just mean you’ll want to dress more conservatively but also that you’ll probably wind up visiting a handful of historic mosques during your travels. Keeping a travel wrap in your bag, such as the Happyluxe Wayfarer Travel Shaw, will ensure you don’t have to borrow something while visiting landmarks that require more conservative attire. It’s also helpful to keep on hand as a shawl for cooler evenings in the desert or even as an impromptu blanket on chilly flights.

“The best time to visit the destination is October until May as the weather is nice and warm with guaranteed sun during the daytime but a lovely cool chill at night,” explains Omar Asem, Travel Director and Egyptologist at Insight Vacations. Of course, the weather can be manageable for travelers year round but it's important to remember the summer months can be very hot.

“It’s crucial to note that drones are absolutely forbidden in the country,” explains Asem. “Travelers must make sure all medical drugs in their possession can only be dispensed with a prescription and beware to not travel with any kind of narcotics.”

Female travelers are recommended to dress modestly by western standards while traveling in Egypt including garments that cover the shoulders and go below the knee. For maximum comfort in the desert climate, Asem recommends wearing loose fitting pants and blouses. During visits to religious places such as mosques and churches, women are expected to wear long sleeves and a head scarf to respect the culture and tradition.

“Local SIM cards are very handy for using your phone to get around and can be obtained easily at a local shop, however travelers must remember to bring their passport to secure one,” says Asem. “Cash in small denominations is helpful when doing local shopping or taking a taxi. It’s smart to learn some key Arabic words and phrases that can help with communication like shukran (thank you), aywa (yes), la’aa (no) and ma’alsalama (good bye).”

Traveling with a trusted travel brand allows travelers to let the local team show off the top sights and expert insights while taking care of everything so you can enjoy in comfort and style. “With a guided tour, travelers will get up close and personal with the destination with passionate Egyptologists by their side,” adds Asem. “Cruising around the Nile is a wonderful way to explore the area between Luxor and Aswan with all of its incredible sights from royal tombs to breathtaking temples.”

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, Kaitlyn McInnis used her experience as a full-time travel writer to curate the best options to suit most needs. She also consulted Omar Asem , Travel Director and Egyptologist at Insight Vacations , and Jasmine Padda , Egypt Destination Specialist for Kensington Tours .

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Egypt Travel Tips: 24 Essential Things You Should Know Before You Visit Egypt (2024)

Travelling to Egypt? This Egypt travel tips guide will give you a detailed rundown of absolutely everything you should know before visiting Egypt. Including what to wear, tipping culture, scams, and loads of other useful hacks.

Egypt is awesome. Seeing its magnificent monuments and the mighty Nile will no doubt leave a lasting impression on you.

If you’re reading this, then there’s are good chance you have either booked your flights to Egypt  or you’re seriously considering going. Either way, that’s great! You’ve come to the right place and are in good hands.

You won’t regret deciding to travel to Egypt. I know  you will have a fabulous time.

How do I know that? Because you’re here reading this article!

You’re doing the right thing by researching and arming yourself with information. This is guide covers literally everything you need to know before visiting Egypt.

This is a very honest (and sometimes brutally honest)  guide. No sugar-coating. My intention is not to be a Debbie Downer. I simply want to prepare you, so you will have a wonderful time because there won’t be any nasty surprises.

You won’t find a more comprehensive guide out there on how to prepare for and what to expect in Egypt. I’ve literally poured all my knowledge (and then some!) into this guide because just like you, I was both excited about going to Egypt but also very anxious and probably a bit paranoid too.

With that in mind, here’s everything we’ll cover. Plus a bonus tip at the end you won’t want to miss!

Looking for something in particular? Use this table of contents below to jump around using the links.

Table of Contents

Why you should go to egypt, is it safe to travel to egypt.

• Is Egypt Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
• Survival Arabic Language Guide

When Should You Go to Egypt?

What is the safest way to travel around egypt.

• Food and Upset Stomachs
• Heat and Hydration
• Vaccinations
• Haggling and Bargaining
• Nothing is free
• Cairo Airport
• Crossing the road
• Photography
• Camel Rides
• School Children
• Mosques and Religious Sites
• Fridays and Saturdays
• BONUS TIP: Fake Papyrus Scam

Karnak Temple

There’s so much to love about Egypt and nothing comes close to experiencing it in in person and not through a TV screen. The history, the temples, the smells, the heat, the sand, the Nile and the moment when your eyes finally gaze up at the Pyramids of Giza. All along the Nile you can trace the Ancient Egyptians through history as you visit their impressive and carefully decorated temples and tombs. Learning about the Ancient Egyptians, how they lived, their beliefs, inventions, and actually seeing their creations is something that will stay with you forever. Egypt is simply a marvel that should be experienced by everyone.

Yes! It’s much safer than the media may lead you to believe. Which is probably why you’re here reading about this Egypt travel tips guide

As an Aussie, I always check the Australian Smart Traveller site for travel warnings. This is the equivalent of the travel warning list by the U.S Department of State for American citizens.

While Egypt is currently listed with a Level 2 travel warning (go to page 4 ) (True as of August 19, 2018), it’s important to remember that governments will always err on the side of caution.

There are four levels used. Where Level 1 means ‘exercise normal precautions’ and Level 4 means ‘do not travel’.

As you can see, this particular warning doesn’t mean you shouldn’t travel. It just means that certain areas are better off being avoided and you just need to be more cautious when visiting them. That’s up to you to decide what you’re most comfortable with.

As of August 2018, the areas of Egypt which are flagged as dangerous are:

• The Sinai Peninsula (with the exception of travel to Sharm El-Sheikh by air) due to terrorism.
• The Western Desert due to terrorism.
• Egyptian border areas due to military zones.

The site goes on to suggest ways in which you can reduce any risk:

• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Obtain comprehensive medical insurance ( get a free quote here ) that includes medical evacuation.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
• Review the Crime and Safety Report for Egypt.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

There are other ways you can ensure your safety and help you to feel more confident with your decision to travel to Egypt. This is covered in a later section.

Because of all the negative attention Egypt has received, tourism has fallen drastically which is great for us travellers but not so great for the locals who depend on the tourist dollar.

With fewer visitors, there are also fewer scammers and smaller crowds at famous attractions. So, there is a silver lining.

On a more personal note, I felt safe during my entire Egypt trip which started in Cairo and went all the way down the Nile to Abu Simbel near the Sudan border.

If I can offer any addition peace of mind, it’s that tourist attractions are generally the safest areas to be in in Egypt as they are heavily guarded.

In addition to this, the locals who I met in hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, souks and the Telecom store where I bought my local SIM card, were all very helpful, kind, and friendly.

Is Egypt safe for solo female travellers?

Admiring the Pyramids

Yes! While Egypt is safe, as a female, you will feel a little bit uncomfortable. This feeling will come mainly in open public places such as walking down the street and in souks.

It’s in these places that you will find men loitering, either by themselves or with a couple of other men. I can only describe this as people watching as most of the time they are sitting on plastic chairs and watching the world go by, including us.

If you’re female, you will receive a lot of looks. In my experience they were harmless. If anything, it just made me feel a bit self-conscious.

Sometimes these men will try to start talking with you or guess where you’re from (they’re very good at getting this right, by the way). Somehow they can tell an Australian from an American just by looking or listening to us speak. Very clever cookies.

It’s at this point, you should do what a local Egyptian man told to me, and that is, to ignore them. Don’t even look at them. This will be enough to discourage them. It might seem like you’re being rude, but ultimately it will protect you.

I was told that the seemingly harmless conversations that start with something like guessing where you’re from, will eventually lead into being invited into their home, shop or restaurant, where they will offer you tea (a traditional welcoming custom), then after some more small talk, they will present you with something and insist you buy it. If you decline, they will get angry.

Okay, so I just painted a terrible picture, but it’s important to be aware of these things. I experienced this first-hand and didn’t know what had happened until my local guide told me that it’s a very common ploy.

Not all men are like this by the way. Just some that give the rest a bad name.

Let’s move on, shall we?

Survival Arabic Travel Phrase Language Guide

Knowing some Arabic ahead of travelling to Egypt is such a game changer. When you can show that you speak a bit of the Arabic language   and can recognise certain keywords, this will give you an extra layer of protection, especially when it comes to dealing with money.

Not only will you feel more in control, but locals will appreciate and respect your efforts to learn their language.

Here are 13 useful Egyptian Arabic words and phrases you should learn and use:

• Hello – salam / marhaban / ahlan
• Peace be with you – As-salāmu alaykum – Even though this literally means ‘peace be with you’, it is a commonly used greeting. The response would be Alaikum Salaam, meaning ‘upon you be peace’.
• Thank you – shukran
• Please – min fadlak (if you’re a male), min fadlik (if you’re a female)
• Y ou’re welcome – Afwan
• Yes – aywa, No – lā, Ok – Mashi
• How much is this? – bi-kam da. You can say, I’ll pay 100 – Enna hafda meeya. Incidentally, if you say ‘meeya meeya’ (’100, 100′) this means ‘perfect’ or ‘really good’.
• It costs too much – Da ghali awi
• I would like… – momkin
• I want – Enna iza (if you’re a female) or Enna ayez (if you’re a male). To negative the sentence, add ‘mish’. For example, ana mish iza/ayez (I don’t want)
• I don’t understand – ana mish fahem
• Go away – Em’shee
• Pyramid – Haram. Most Egyptians don’t understand the word “Pyramids”, so make sure you learn the Arabic word for them, especially if you’re taking a taxi there. Haram also means. The strict translation of the Arabic word ‘harim’ means (a prohibited place) and is from the verbal root ‘harama’ (prohibited), designated as ‘haram’ (a pyramid). ( Source )

For more Arabic phrases, get my free Arabic travel phrases guide here. 

Between June and August, the temperature in Egypt is unbearable. While you may have the luxury of quiet tourist attractions and more hotel options, to be honest, in that heat you won’t want to do anything but relax in a pool somewhere.

The best time to visit Egypt is in Spring. The weather is pleasant and the major attractions such as the Pyramids of Giza, Aswan, and Luxor are still fairly quiet.

You’ll also benefit from cheaper hotel prices, especially if travelling either side of the high season which is December to February.

Avoid traveling during Ramadan.

Cruising down the Nile at sunset

This is probably my top tip in this guide. It’s not Earth shattering, but it made all the difference to me and was the only way I could see myself travelling around Egypt and finally fulfil my childhood dream.

Go on an organised group tour!

To simplify and avoid overthinking everything, I knew that I had to travel with an organised group tour. That way I would have a local guide with me, I wouldn’t have to worry about transportation and other logistics and I could just concentrate on having a good time.

Choosing Topdeck to go to Egypt with was a no brainer, for two reasons. I’d already travelled with them before around Outback Australia and really rated my experience with them. The accommodation, transportation, guide and organisation was all spot on. Plus, I met some wonderful people that I’m still friends with.

The second reason (which might sound a bit silly) was that they are an Australian company, which I knew would put my dad’s mind at ease. I knew he would be super worried about me going. Even me living in London makes him worry!

By the way, remember that Egyptian guy I mentioned earlier who warned me about talking to strangers? That was our Topdeck tour manager, Ramzy. Top bloke!

Ramzy gave a bunch of useful tips, a language guide (on behalf of Topdeck), and was basically a kind of bodyboard who protected us from negative experiences and scared off a few scammers. This made all the difference. If you’re curious, I went on the Egypt Express tour . Book your Egypt tour here.

Now, let’s get into the niggity gritty of the everyday realities of travelling in Egypt.

Top 24 Egypt Travel Tips You Should Know Before You Visit Egypt

The tap water in Egypt is heavily chlorinated and tastes terrible. It’s okay for brushing your teeth with, but don’t drink it. Especially if you have a sensitive stomach. Buy bottled water. It’s easy to get and only costs 5 EGP (0.28 USD) for a 1-litre bottle.

2. Food and Upset Stomach

You’re in a foreign place with foreign food, diarrhoea will happen. To help prevent this, again, buy bottled water and check the seal isn’t broken. Avoid eating salads, raw vegetables, unpeeled fruit, and meat that isn’t thoroughly cooked. Don’t buy food from street vendors that don’t have running water. If you want an ice-cream, check that it hasn’t melted and been refrozen. If you do get an upset stomach, take diarrhoea relief tablets  and drink plenty of purified water  with fresh lime.

3. Heat and Hydration

Looking up at the Great Pyramid of Giza

Egypt gets hot, obviously. You’re in the desert! Dehydration, sunburn and heat exhaustion are common, especially in Upper Egypt. As your sweat evaporates you may not realise how dehydrated you are.

If you’re travelling outside of winter, then I highly recommend wearing loose-fitting clothes made of natural fibre. Keep up your fluids up by carrying around this travel bottle  and add a bit of extra salt to your food to replace salts lost in sweat. Pack electrolyte tablets to take just in case you feel unwell.

If you need further medical assistance, Egyptian pharmacists generally speak English and can be trusted to provide sound advice and help you find a doctor if needed.

4. Vaccinations

Officially, visitors to Egypt do not require any vaccinations unless you’re coming from an infected area. However, there are some vaccinations you should get or have topped up as a precaution.

Check with yourr GP what they recommend. Beyond ensuring your tetanus and polio is up to date, other common recommendations include getting vaccinations against typhoid, Hepatitis A and B, and rabies. Rabies is a problem throughout Egypt, so avoid touching stray animals such as cats, dogs, monkeys, and bats.

Money and Valuables

5. currency.

Remember the difference between 50 Piastres (top) and 50 Egyptian Pounds (bottom)

The unit of currency used in Egypt is the Egyptian pound, written £E or LE. The Egyptian pound is divided into piastres (pt). My top tip is to recognise the difference between the 50 pt against the 50 Egyptian Pound notes since they are very different in value.

Make sure that if you’re given change or are paying for something, that you’re not duped into thinking that 50 piastres (or cents) is the 50 Egyptian pounds note. This is a common scam that is used on unsuspecting tourists. When I found out about this, I made sure I kept both denominations on me so I could tell them apart. Compare the difference of the 50 pt and 50 LE in the photo above.

Another word to add your vocab is ‘baksheesh’, which means ‘tip’. You’ll hear this one a lot and it will be expected for anything and everything. Tipping locals for their services is expected and a way of life in Egypt.

Many Egyptians are paid such low salaries that receiving tips is an important part of their income. But rest assured you won’t have to fork out much.

In restaurants, it’s normal to round up the bill or give 10 per cent directly to the waiter. Smaller tips (0.25 piastres to 1 EGP) are given to the likes of lavatory attendants, porters, and anyone willing to bend the rules a bit like letting you enter a site after hours or taking a photo in a restricted area.

While the rules are often bent in Egypt, authorities are cracking down on certain things (like being able to take a photo inside King Tuts tomb) with hefty fines. Don’t risk offering money just to get your way.

7. Haggling and Bargaining

One of the best things to do in Egypt is to visit a souk market. When browsing comes to buying and you ask, bi-kam da? (How much is it?) be prepared to bargain hard or walk away. As a general rule, offer one third of the asking price and expect to pay half.

8. Nothing is free

Taking a sneaky photo at Karnak Temple without being spotted

Want to take a photo of a camel at the Pyramids? If the owner catches you look, he will probably demand to be paid.

I learned this lesson the hard way. I was at least 20 metres away when I was spotted taking a photo of a camel resting. It’s up to you if you choose to offer the owner something and if you feel like you’ve done something wrong.

A similar incident happened when I was at Philae Temple. Three men were talking amongst themselves and with the temple behind them I thought it would make a great shot. With at least 50 metres between us , I took the shot. They spotted me and came over and offered to have a group photo. By this point I knew the drill and was happy to give them a little baksheesh.

9. Belongings

It goes without saying that you should always keep your valuables with you. Decide on whether or not you feel comfortable  leaving your passport, laptop or iPad in the hotel room safe or if you’re better off keeping it on you. Using a PacSafe is a great option if you want to leave stuff in your room and there is no safe available.

If you go on a tour, don’t leave anything valuable on the bus, even if the driver is around. They can’t be responsible if something happens.

What to Wear

10. clothing.

Khan el-Khalili market in Cairo

Egypt is dusty, sandy, and dirty. Your clothes will dirty easily and you’ll be washing your hair most nights. Be prepared to rinse out your clothes each night ( this will do the trick ) or pack extra items to wear.

So, what should you wear? As a general rule, wear loose-fitting clothes that are made of breathable material.

Ladies, it’s a bit more complicated for us. While Egypt is one of the more liberal Islamic countries, it has become more conservative in recent years with many women wearing a hijab or headscarf. Female tourists aren’t obligated to wear these but you may feel more at ease doing so, especially in mosques.

As a general rule, avoid showing your chest, shoulders or legs below the knees.

At this point you’re probably looking at my photos wondering why I didn’t cover up my legs, and you’re right! I did pack longer dresses, but when Ramzy told the group that it’s ok to wear shorts and normal summer attire when visiting monuments such as the Pyramids and the temples along the Nile, I felt comfortable in taking his advice.

The only exception he made was when visiting mosques, markets or souks. Which is why you’ll see me wearing long pants in the photo above in Khan el-Khalili souk in Cairo.

If you’re a female travelling alone, place ring on your wedding finger, this will show respectability.

11. Footwear

However hot and tempting it maybe to wear flip flops, with all the dirt, sand and grime present, I recommend wearing closed toe shoes.

You’re going to be doing a lot of walking in some pretty unclean areas and the last thing you want is having dirty feet all day.

Getting Around and Transportation

You need a visa! For Americans and Aussies, and a few other countries, you can either apply in advance for an Egypt e-Visa , or queue at the border for a visa on arrival.

For most travellers, the visa will cost roughly $USD25 (single entry, valid for 30 days) or $USD35 (multi-entry). Since I travelled with Topdeck, they organised my visa once I arrived. All I had to do was bring American Dollars to pay for it. Only American Dollars or Egyptian Pounds are accepted. In addition to your visa, ensure your passport is valid six months beyond your planned date of entry.

Taxis are cheap and easy to use. Simply go to a main street and wave your hand, that’s it. They even have Uber if you prefer!  Just be sure he follows the GPS.

Before jumping in the taxi, agree on the price beforehand and stick to it. Not matter what reason they come up with. For getting around Cairo, you can expect to pay 50 to 80 EGP. (2.70 – 4.50 USD).

If you’re staying in Downtown Cairo, getting to the Pyramids should only take 30 minutes, but Cairo has very busy roads so it can take 60-90 minutes.

There are three kinds of taxis in Cairo: Black Taxis, Yellow Taxis and White Taxis. Black taxis are the oldest ones. Most are without a meter and without air-conditioning. White taxis are the modern equivalent of black taxi. They have a meter and air-conditioning. Yellow taxis are professionally run and can be booked over the phone but are the most expensive. I recommend getting a white taxi and bargaining hard.

14. Air travel

With raised safety concerns in Egypt, some airlines like British Airways are becoming more strict with what you can take in your carry-on luggage or even in your checked luggage.

I flew both ways with British Airways but they only had an issue when returning to the UK. They had very strict guidelines on what size lithium batteries were allowed on board.

A bunch of us were fuming when we were forced to leave behind expensive powerbanks which we weren’t reimbursed for or given alternatively means of keeping them. To give you an idea, this is the one I had to part with. *sniff*.

Air France, who were also flying that day but didn’t have this rule. Check with your airline ahead of travelling so you’re not caught out and left out of pocket.

15. Cairo Airport

Cairo Airport is unlike any airport you’ve experienced. Upon arrival, everything seems pretty standard until after you go through passport control.

Once you pick up your luggage and head to the exit, there will probably be a massive long queue that wraps around the luggage collection hall. Guarding the exit is one or two men who will look you up and down and decide if they want to check your luggage.

Since we were with a Topdeck escort who came to help us get a visa and take us to the hotel, he was on familiar terms with the airport staff and was able to get us through quickly.

Once we got through to the other side, our escort disappeared briefly to hand back a permit he was given in order to come and meet us inside. This is just another reason why travelling with an organised tour is great.

If, at the end of your trip you leave via Cairo Airport, be prepared for three separate security checks; one as soon as you enter the airport at the entrance, one at customs, then another at the gate. The first one is where they’ll flag any illegal objects like my poor powerbank .

16. Crossing the road

Crossing the road in Cairo is a skill. If you’ve ever been to Rome  and stared down a driver then confidently walked out into a busy street, then you’re well-prepared for Cairo.

If locals see you struggling to cross, they will either let you join their own crossing convoy or come and assist you.

If you’re still too nervous to go it alone, you have some other options for crossing the road:

• Wait for a lull in the traffic before crossing (this may take a while).
• If possible, cross where there is only 1 or 2 lanes of traffic. Don’t stop in the middle of the road between the two lanes either. Cars will drive dangerously close to you while you wait for the other lane to have an opening.
• Ask someone to join them as they cross. If they can’t understand English, simply smile and indicate to the other side of the road.
• Find a policeman to help you, there are plenty around.

17. Driving

Whilst driving from Cairo to Luxor during the night, I noticed that many drivers didn’t have their headlights on. This is totally normal and nothing to be concerned about. Egyptians believe they see better this way.

When a car is approaching, they’ll flash their lights to let them know they’re there. Some drivers may keep their fog lights on. If you’re wondering, our Topdeck driver kept his headlights on.

Cultural Tips and Other Useful Tips

18. photography.

You will have to pay a small fee to take your camera inside the Pyramids Complex

Want to take your camera with you? Be prepared to pay for it!

Whether you want to take photos or film video, every monument, temple, tomb and museum you visit will charge a small fee just to take it inside. Expect to pay anything from 50 to 100 EGP (2.70 – 5.60 USD).

I was even charged extra when guards are Philae temple saw my tripod. At first they wouldn’t let me take it at all then they came around when I said I wouldn’t use it so they charged me for another camera ticket.

Once inside, flash photography is generally forbidden and should be strictly followed.

19. Camel Rides

Camel and horse rides at the Pyramids of Giza

Going on a camel ride and taking a photo with the pyramids behind you is one of the most desired tourist souvenirs from a trip to Egypt.

If you know that going on a camel ride around the pyramids is something you definitely want to do, you may (and I hope), reconsider once you arrive and see how malnourished and badly treated the camels, and horses for that matter, are.

Egypt is a third-world country and many citizens are living in a state of desperation. As such, the men who run these camel rides prioritise feeding their families over feeding their camels. While they may have their priorities right, I can’t bring myself to support them. This has only become worse since tourism has declined.

If you do choose to take a camel ride, make sure you’re not hassled into paying more than the fair price. In order to crack down on scamming tourist signs have now been put up showing set prices for camel rides which are 50 Egyptian Pounds for 30 minutes.

Make sure you check out my guide on everything you need to know about visiting the Pyramids.

20. Toilets

Public toilets in Egypt are not the best, and that’s putting it lightly.

A trip to the loo will set you back 1 or 2 EGP and give you access to either a squat or western toilet. They generally don’t have toilet paper, are dirty, and the tap water may not be running. Bring your own toilet paper ( these flushable wipes are great ), hand sanitizer, and wipe down the seat if you must sit or get one of these.

There will usually be a hose next to the toilet, but the water will only be turned on if you pay a baksheesh.

Toilets in restaurants and hotels are usually staffed by an attendant who will give you toilet paper and turn on the tap for you. Giving a baksheesh of 25 – 50 piastres is standard.

21. School Children

You might feel famous when travelling around Egypt. At least that’s how the students in large school groups will make you think,

On countless occasions, at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the Pyramids, and Karnak Temple, young kids would run up to us asking for selfies or yell out and wave as our group walked passed. They were so excited and interested in us.

When I asked Ramzy why, he said that we are sort of celebrities to them. They watch people like us on TV who have very different lives from their own so they get excited when they see us in their country.

It’s actually very sweet. However, if you say yes to one, they’ll all come running. It’s best to politely decline from the start.

22. Mosques and Religious Sites

A beautiful Mosque on the Nile

Dressing modestly is a must when visiting mosques. Some places may ask women to cover their hair and will provide you with a headscarf. Before entering you will be required to remove your shoes and leave them with a shoe custodian (give him a baksheesh).

If you want to climb the minaret (tower), carry your shoes with the soles pressed together. It’s best to avoid visiting mosques during prayer times as to not intrude on worshippers.

23. Smoking

Everywhere you go, everyone will be smoking. Whether it’s a cigarette or shisha water-pipe, if you’re a non-smoker it can get really annoying.

Smokers are allowed to light up pretty much anywhere. The only exception is in fast-food restaurants thanks to an initiative by the environment ministry.

Restaurants have non-smoking tables, but these are almost pointless since they are surrounded by smoking tables. If you’re outside, try and stay upwind and always ask for a non-smoking room in your hotel.

24. Fridays and Saturdays

As in most Arab countries, their weekend falls on a Friday and Saturday. This means tourist attractions are much more busy on these days than the rest of the week.

I strongly recommend not visiting the Pyramids, Cairo Tower or the Egyptian Museum in Cairo on either of these days. The queues will be torture.

25. BONUS TIP: Fake Papyrus Scam

Lady writing my name in hieroglyphics on real papyrus

The Ancient Egyptians were one of the first to master the production of paper, known as papyrus. One of the nicest souvenirs you can get after a trip to Egypt is a papyrus print. But, there is a very common scam take catches out many tourists. Fake papyrus!

In many markets and other street vendors will sell fake papyrus that is actually made from banana leaf, not the papyrus plant. These will be cheaper than the real thing.

So, how do you spot a fake papyrus? Easy! First, notice how these vendors show or display their “papyrus”, it’s stiff, like cardboard and will tear when rolled which is why they’ll never roll it. Real papyrus is strong, flexible and durable and can be rolled up. Second, hold the papyrus up to the light, you should be able to see vertical and horizontal strips that make up the papyrus sheet, within these strips you should see little dark fibres or flecks. This is a good sign!

I hope this guide has helped you feel more prepared for your trip to Egypt. Remember, every country has its quirks. If things were the same as home, you wouldn’t be visiting.

I would go back to Egypt in a heartbeat. Everything I saw blew me away. It’s such an incredible country with a wonderful history. The locals are welcoming and it’s very cheap to travel to.

If you still have any questions or concerns, please reach out and leave a comment below. I’d be happy to help where I can. If not, then I wish you a wonderful trip! Support this blog and book your Egypt tour here.

Shukran for reading! 😉

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Thank you so much for all the information.

Looking forward for a trip to Egypt !!

My pleasure! Have a wonderful trip 🙂

Hi Michele, a lovely and useful article to read! Just wanted to check with you about passport safety: was it with you at all times, or you left it in your hotel room? Also – when entering Egypt have you been questioned about what, if any medication you had with you – as some over the counter meds in Europe or US can be problematic to bring into Egypt? Thank you!

Hi Jo, thank you so much and thank you for your questions. Yes, I always carried my passport on me. In fact, I do this wherever I travel. I would also ensure you have a photocopy in your luggage and a copy saved on your phone or on the cloud as an extra safety measure. When it comes to medication, I would email the airport directly for any questions you have. I was worried when flying from London to NY after I had heard that you can’t take a certain quantity of protein powder in your luggage. I emailed US customs and they said it was ok. I also kept a copy of that email on me and on my phone and was ready to show the customs officers on arrival if I had any issues. This is good practice as the problem with customs is that it’s sometimes open to interpretation and depends on how the officers feel on the day. I hope this helps 🙂 Have a wonderful trip!

Where do you recommend converting US $$ to LE and what volume of notes should I get to handle all the tipping. If at airport, is this best done before the border/customs or after? Thanks!

Hi David, before arriving, I ordered some USD so I would have enough to pay for my visa on arrival and have some money for incidentals. I had heard that they accept both USD and Egyptian Pounds at the airport. The tour company I travelled with had a guide on the ground who helped me through this process and I knew I need 100USD to pay for the visa. The rest of the time I used Egyptian Pounds. There is no tipping culture like the USA, so you can tip if you like but it’s not always necessary.

Hi David, before arriving, I ordered some USD so I would have enough to pay for my visa on arrival and have some money for incidentals. I had heard that they accept both USD and Egyptian Pounds at the airport. The tour company I travelled with had a guide on the ground who helped me through this process and I knew I need 100USD to pay for the visa. The rest of the time I used Egyptian Pounds. There is no tipping culture like the USA, so you can tip if you like but it’s not always necessary.

Hi, I have read and re-read this several times. Thank you. I’m going with a friend to Egypt early March and want to go on organised trips but I’m disabled and can only walk very slowly. In other countries I’ve just let the group go ahead and done my own thing then joined back at the coach. Is this a good idea in Egypt or can I hire an electric mobility scooter while there.

Hi Gabrielle, I’m not 100% sure how this works and it will vary depending on the accessibility of the group tour company. I would reach out to them directly for advice before booking. Best of luck and I hope it works out 🙂

Hello, thank you for your honesty. I enjoyed reading all of your tips. I am considering going in February from the 19th to the 24th. Do you think this is enough time to see everything you saw?

Hi Caroline, I went on a Top Deck tour, this is the best way to ensure you that we see everything and safely too. I highly recommend it. You can see the tour I did here http://bit.ly/EgyptExpressTour

Great info! Where did you take your photos??? THEY. ARE. FABULOUS.

Thank you SO much, Naomi. I took them during my Top Deck tour around Egypt . I highly recommend it! 🙂

This has been helpful and has eased my mind about travelling to Egypt. Going in a tour group, can’t wait ! 😀

I’m so happy to hear that. You’re very welcome, Jacinda 🙂

Thank you so much for such a wonderful article, I can’t wait to land egypt.

Thank you so much, Priya 🙂

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• Best and Worst Times to Visit Egypt 2024/2025

Egypt weather is mainly affected by its desert climate location. It is a country with little rain and sunny days all year around. That means Egypt only has these three seasons: hot, warm, or mild.

• Mild season - average 24°C (75°F): December to February
• Warm seasons - average 27°C (86°F): March to April, October to November
• Hot season - average 34°C (100°F): May to September

The best time to visit Egypt is between October and April , when the weather is not so hot. However, October to April is also the peak season when many travelers choose to travel to Egypt, resulting in increased costs and crowds.

Read on for more about Egypt's best/worst times, and monthly weather/travel tips...

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1. best times to visit egypt for a nile cruise, 2. best times to visit hurghada, 3. worst times to visit egypt, 4. weather in major cities in egypt, 5. egypt travel tips by month.

A Nile cruise , mainly cruising between Luxor and Aswan , sailing along "the mother of civilizations", can be the ultimate way to discover Egypt.

For the best experience, the mild season (from December to February) is the best time for Nile Cruise.

If you plan your family trip to Egypt around the Christmas and New Year vacation, cruising on the Nile can offer you a once-in-a-lifetime memory-making experience and a festive atmosphere, as you join in the celebrations with the crew, other holiday-makers, and your love ones.

Considering the weather and your wallet, the best times for a Nile Cruise are the warm seasons (from March to April and October to November) , with less crowding and lower prices than in the peak season as well as reasonable temperatures for outdoor sightseeing.

If you are planning to travel to Egypt during the peak season, it is advisable to book your flights and hotels at least six months in advance to avoid the stress of dealing with temporary price increases and rooms/seats selling out. Travel with Global Highlights to enjoy a hassle-free private and tailor-made tour , whenever you travel.

Get to know more ideas about planning a trip to Egypt >>>

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Hurghada, known as a beautiful coastal city with good seaside resorts, is always popular with people who want to immerse themselves in blue sea and sky and feel the sea breeze on warm, dry days of relaxation.

For the best experience including swimming and water sports, March to May and September to November are the best times to visit Hurghada , when the weather is pleasant for water activities, and the crowds are reasonable.

Hurghada is also a good destination to go to for celebrating Christmas and New Year with your family, when the weather is mild. December to February is the best time for the most-active outdoor activities. Besides water fun, you could enjoy the most comfortable weather for the nearby attractions, such as desert safaris, ancient temples, and markets.

Get to know more ideas about planning a family trip to Egypt >>>

May, June, July, and August are considered the worst months to visit Egypt as they are too hot for some, with daily top temperatures ranging from 32 to 44°C (90 to 111°F) and occasional dusty windstorms (mainly in May).

However, good deals on hotels and fewer crowds are the rewards for traveling during these months. Taking a Nile River cruise, diving in the Red Sea, and having more indoor activities would make your summer trip in Egypt more enjoyable.

Get some inspiration on how many days to spend in Egypt >>>

It rarely rains throughout the year in Egypt, so when you're planning your trip, all you need to do is focus on the temperature range that suits your needs.

• Sharm El Sheikh

Cairo Monthly Weather

Alexandria monthly weather, luxor monthly weather, aswan monthly weather, hurghada monthly weather, sharm el sheikh monthly weather.

Click the sign of each month to check the travel guide information.

Egypt in January: Coptic Christmas Day

Due to the cool-to-mild temperatures, averaging daily highs of 19°C (67°F) throughout Egypt, January is one of the busiest months to visit Egypt.

Even though you can expect larger crowds and higher prices, visiting during January means you can enjoy a wide range of activities without the uncomfortable heat, such as camel riding, Nile River cruises, and outdoor sightseeing.

Festival: If you are traveling in Egypt on January 7th, you could witness the celebration of Coptic Christmas Day , also known as Egypt's second Christmas . People decorate the streets and shops with bells, fairy lights, and Christmas trees. Dive into the festive spirit and feel the lively vibe by joining locals' celebration events.

When planning the budget for an Egypt trip, you could find more details in How Much Does a Trip to Egypt Cost? >>>

Egypt in February: Sun Festival at Abu Simbel

The weather is noticeably warmer in February with an average high temperature of 23°C (73°F). With mild weather during this time, we highly recommend exploring outdoor sightseeing spots such as in Cairo, Giza, Luxor, and Aswan. Feel ancient history and culture come to life through discovering the secrets behind these monuments.

Festival: If you plan to visit Egypt on February 22nd in Aswan, don't miss the opportunity to attend the bi-annual Sun Festival at the Temple of Ramses II in Abu Simbel Temple.

You can witness the statues of Ramses, Ra, and Amun being illuminated by a stream of sunlight during the Sun Festival, while the statue of Ptah (the God of Darkness) remains in shadow.

Suggested reading: How to Plan a Trip to Egypt and Jordan >>>

Egypt in March: Ramadan

Temperatures rise to warm-to-moderate levels in March in Egypt, averaging highs of 25°C (77°F) in Cairo, but up to 30°C (86°F) in Aswan. As the peak season ends, fewer crowds and lower costs makes this month a good time to visit Egypt for costs and temperatures.

Wearing light layers is usually sufficient throughout the day, however, as evening approaches, it may drop to a point that makes you want to put on a hoodie or light coat.

Festival: During Ramadan in Egypt, which falls between March 10 and April 11 in 2024, depends on the Muslim calendar. For 30 days, Muslims abstain from food and drink during the daytime.

As a visitor to the country, you won't be expected to fast, but it's important to be aware that local shops and attractions close about two hours before sunset and for two hours after sunrise. So, you should plan your trip appropriately, or travel with Global Highlights , as we will handle all of your scheduling with professionalism.

Egypt in April: Eid Al-Fitr

Although April is warmer than March, averaging 27°C (81°F) in Cairo, but up to 35°C (95°F) in Aswan, it is still cooler than the hot season and a pleasant enough for sightseeing at the right time of day.

Under the effect of Ramadan restrictions, Egypt's tourism starts entering the shoulder season, leads to decreasing crowds and lower cost. While Easter may cause a temporary price increase, it is still a good time to visit Egypt.

Festival: Ramadan ends on April 10/11 in 2024 , and is marked by Eid al-Fitr, one of Egypt's largest celebrations to end the month-long fast. The streets and shops are decorated with colorful lanterns and lights, and you can experience a joyful and festive atmosphere, when everyone says "eid mubarak" ('happy festival') as a greeting.

Read more about 10 days in Egypt.

Egypt in May: Good Cost-Wise, Sham Ennessim

Egypt's climate turns hot and very dry, and temperatures get up to 30°C (86°F) in Cairo most days after early May, but up to 39°C (102°F) in Aswan, which explains why this month marks the end of the shoulder season for visiting the country.

If you're prepared to deal with the sunlight and heat, you can benefit from the cheapest airfares and accommodation options during this season. Furthermore, you'll be able to avoid the crowds and enjoy the attractions without having to wait in long lines.

Festival: If you visit Egypt on May 6th, 2024, you can experience the Sham Ennessim festival, which takes place on the same day as Easter Monday in the Coptic calendar. During the festival, people give presents to their loved ones and write wishes on eggs before putting them in a basket to hang under trees or eaves.

Suggested reading: How to Plan a Nile Cruise in Egypt?

Egypt in June: Great Off Season Deals

June temperatures continue to heat up, getting up to 32°C (90°F) in Cairo most days, but up to 41°C (106°F) in Aswan! It is hot and dry throughout the country, and participating outdoor activities during the daytime can be very uncomfortable and exhausting.

To escape from the stifling heat, you could cruise on the Nile River in an air-conditioned vessel or head to Hurghada, a beautiful coastal city on the shore of the Red Sea, to feel its warm, humid breeze.

Get to know the carefully selected Egypt itineraries for 12 days

Egypt in July: Small Crowds and Cheap Prices

Temperatures in July average 38°C (100°F) at their daily highpoint, which is very hot! Visiting Egypt in July means either getting up really early to start your sightseeing, seeking out indoor tours with air-conditioning, or making the most of your evenings to avoid the heat.

Most days are very hot and dry, so it is advisable to book an air-conditioned hotel with a swimming pool or one close to the Red Sea for snorkeling and diving. Remember to wear UV protection swimwear before you swim under the strong sunlight, otherwise you may easily get sunburnt.

Egypt in August: Hottest Time, Least Crowding, Lowest Prices

August in Egypt is really hot, as the temperature averages highs of 41°C (106°F) in Aswan.

If you haven't traveled to a tropical country before, you may find the heat in this period is unbearable. But, if you brave the temperatures, you can get very good deals on hotels and flights, which would be good for your savings and budget.

Enjoy your trip with little crowding and queues at every attraction. But locals tend to visit the coast of the Red Sea during this period, so you may encounter busyness and crowds along the coastline.

Traveling with Global Highlights is an excellent way to plan your trip without the hassle of arranging transportation and accommodations. Contact us any time to have your private tour tailor-made with our expert guidance.

Egypt in September: Last Low Season Month

Egypt in September is still hot but becomes bearable, with temperatures dropping to 32°C (90°F) in Cairo, though still 39°C (102°F) in Aswan. Prices and costs remain lower compared to traveling between October and April.

By avoiding school vacations and public holidays, you can have a pleasant trip without waiting in long lines in September. You'll also have more space to yourself to wander around and immerse yourself in Egypt's rich history and culture.

Whether you're planning to explore ancient ruins, or simply take in the sights and sounds of this country, September can be an excellent time to visit Egypt.

Find out more popular Egypt itineraries for 8 days

Egypt in October: The second Sun Festival at Abu Simbel

As October arrives, temperatures in most places become pleasantly warm, averaging up to 28°C (82°F) in Cairo. However, in some southern regions (Aswan/Luxor), it may still be hot (around 36°C/97°F).

As the beginning of the shoulder season, October still offers a reprieve from large crowds and long queues, while remaining a budget-friendly time to travel.

Festival: The Sun Festival is held twice a year in Aswan. If you visit Abu Simbel on October 18th, you'll get the chance to witness the magnificent view of the Temple of Ramses II, see the sunray illuminate the main chamber room as a beam of golden light. Miss out on this, and you'd need to wait until next February for another chance to see this incredible spectacle.

Find out more popular Egypt itineraries for 7 days

Egypt in November: Mild and Moderate

As the seasons change in Egypt, the temperature continues dropping to an average high of 26°C (79°F), making it a good time to plan for outdoor activities and sightseeing tours without being bothered by the scorching sunlight.

Additionally, as the end of the month sees the beginning of the peak season, expect larger crowds and higher prices for both flights and accommodations.

Whether you prefer camel riding, desert camping, or snorkeling, this is the perfect time to indulge in your favorite activities. Just remember to bring some light layers to protect yourself from sudden drops in temperature to avoid getting too chilly.

Egypt in December: Christmas and New Year

Temperatures in Egypt remain warm on some days, averaging highs of around 21°C (70°F) even during the winter season, making Egypt a good place for you to spend Christmas and New Year, maybe celebrating on a Nile cruise with your family.

Comfortable weather also means higher costs for accommodations and flights and larger crowds. Planning your trip at least six months in advance is advisable to ensure a hassle-free experience. Departing before December 20th is also beneficial for obtaining cheaper international flight tickets.

Festival: Feel the bustling vibe in the air around the Christmas and New Year's festivities at the end of December. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of celebration by attending the traditional performances, or join the locals in the cafés and streets of Cairo for exotic music and dance.

Check out our handpicked itineraries for 14 days

Travel to Egypt with Global Highlights

Egypt is a popular destination for family holiday, bucket-list trip and culture learning tour. You'll need to make sure that you're booking in advance, especially if you are hoping to go during the peak season (from December to February).

If you are planning to visit Egypt, reach out to us and our experts can help you put together your ideal itinerary. Let us know what your priorities are in terms of where to visit and what to see.

If you have your own schedule, check our handpicked itineraries for various durations: 5 days , 7 days , 8 days , 10 days , 12 days , 14 days , and 21 days ...

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Holidays to Egypt in April

Holidays to Egypt in April are a great idea, both for sightseeing, and for relaxation and leisure. Days are sunny and hot, but not unbearably hot, and the evenings refreshingly cool.

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Design your custom egypt tour.

Explore Egypt your way by selecting only the attractions you want to visit

Egypt in April

Visiting Egypt in April is simply ideal. While the days are typically hot, the sweltering heat of summer has not yet arrived. Whether you want to book a Nile cruise in April to visit Egypt’s many ancient tourist attractions located on the banks of the Nile River, or whether you only want to relax near the ocean at beach resorts like Hurghada or Sharm El-Sheikh, April is a great time to visit Egypt.

April is the last month of the high season, and by now most tourists have left, but still expect to see lots of tourists at the country’s popular archaeological monuments. You will also see lots of tourists at places like Hurghada and Sharm El-Sheikh. Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada are among Egypt’s most popular beach holiday destinations.

Both Hurghada and Sharm El-Sheikh are home to some of the world’s finest dive sites. The warmer weather and even better underwater visibility make SCUBA diving holidays to Egypt in April very popular. Even regular sightseeing Egypt tours in April are very popular.

If you are planning to travel to Egypt in April, continue reading…

Weather in Egypt in April

Valley of the Kings at sunset. View to the Nile Valley

A lot of people, who book holidays to Egypt in April, do so because of the great weather one can expect at this time of the year. The days are typically hot, while the evenings are best described as being balmy.

During the day, temperatures in most parts of Egypt fluctuate between 20C (about 68F) and 32C (about 89.6F) with the daily average being about 29C (about 84.2).

While daytime temperatures are higher and nighttime temperatures lower in places like Luxor , Aswan and Abu Simbel than they are in Cairo, the difference is barely noticeable. In places like Sharm -El Sheikh and other nearby areas like Marsa Alam, the days are also slightly hotter than in Cairo, but there is almost always a gently breeze blowing in off the sea.

All in all, the weather in Egypt in April is perfect for all types of holidays, including family holidays, Nile cruise holidays , sightseeing holidays, and beach holidays.

Easter in Egypt

Orthodox Christians celebrate Easter on a different date compared to regular Christians in most western countries. While western countries use the Gregorian calendar to calculate what day Easter should fall on, Orthodox Christians use the Julian calendar.

The vast majority of Egypt’s Christian population is Orthodox Coptic Christians, and they celebrate Orthodox Easter, which is usually later than Catholic Easter. Since Egypt is a Muslim-majority country, most Egyptians don’t celebrate Easter as Christians do, but it is nonetheless a public holiday.

Unlike Christians who celebrate Easter for religious reasons, Egypt’s Muslim population celebrates “Sham El Nessim” which is the arrival of spring. Orthodox Easter and Sham El Nessim typically fall on the same day.

On Easter weekend, most Christians in Egypt attend a church service on Saturday evening. On Easter Sunday morning they attend church again, and then it is time for family reunions, exchanging gifts, and picnics in open spaces, many of which host a variety of festivals.

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Festivals in Egypt in April

Are there any festivals that you can look forward to during holidays to Egypt in April? Egypt being Egypt, there is almost always some sort of festivals or celebrations taking place, but most of these don’t take place annually.

In April there are only three official public holidays:

• Sham El Nessim (coincides with Easter)
• Sinai Liberation Day

Sham El Nessim is one of Egypt’s oldest and most sacred celebrations, dating back to the time of Ancient Egypt’s 3rd Dynasty from 2650BC–2575BC. Today Sham El Nessim is celebrated by all Egyptians, regardless of their religion. Visiting parks, zoos, or going for a Nile cruise are all very popular at this time of the year.

Eating colored eggs and salty fermented fish is very popular during Sharm El Nessin, although the health authorities typically warn against eating the fermented fish due to the risk of food poisoning. However, this tradition dates back thousands of years, and modern-day Egyptian are not about to stop following this tradition.

What to Wear in Egypt in April

What should you wear during holidays to Egypt in April? Considering that April is typically sunny and hot, we would recommend wearing garments which are light and cool. As is the case in any hot climate, loose fitting clothes are best. Also try to get clothes which are made from a breathable fabric, such as cotton for example.

Loose fitting trousers, slacks or long dresses are best, especially for when you are visiting Egypt’s popular archaeological monuments like the Giza Pyramids , Karnak Temple , the Abu Simbel Temples , etc. Bear in mind that many of Egypt’s top ancient temples and tombs are located in or near cities like Cairo and Luxor which are essentially desert areas.

We also recommend wearing a wide brimmed hat to help keep the sun off your face when are outdoors. In the evenings and/or early mornings, a light jacket can come in very handy because despite the fact that winter has passed, the evenings can still be rather cool. Last but not least, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes rather than sandals during sightseeing tours.

What to Pack for Egypt in April

We have already looked at what sort of clothes are best for holidays to Egypt in April, so here are a few other things which you should pack in your luggage for your trip to the Land of the Pharaohs:

• A small first aid kit containing some plasters, some antibacterial agent, and some anti-diarrhea medication in case you end up with an upset stomach after trying some Egyptian culture food from a roadside stall.
• A good pair of sunglasses, preferably ones with Polaroid lenses.
• Sun block and lip balm to prevent excessive sunburn. Ideally, look for a sunscreen lotion that has an SPF rating of at least 15 or above.
• A universal power adapter so that you can recharge your devices.
• A portable power bank so you can recharge your phone or camera during tours to different historical sites if it becomes necessary.
• Sufficient digital storage for storing photos and videos.
• A travel pillow, preferably one of the inflatable ones that fit around the back of your neck. One of these can make your flight to Egypt that much more comfortable, and they are also great for road trips once you get to Egypt.
• A secure travel wallet or purse to protect your cash and credit cards against pickpockets.
• A head scarf if you are a female traveler and you intend visiting one or more mosques when you are in Egypt.

Dream Holidays to Egypt in April

At Egypt Tours Plus, we have helped many people enjoy unforgettable holidays to Egypt in April and we can do the same for you. With more than 250,000 tours already sold, our team of travel specialists knows exactly what it takes to deliver the perfect vacation, and one which is flawless in every way.

From private guided Egypt tours to stunning multi-country tours covering Egypt and beyond, we have something for everyone.

Start planning your trip to Egypt now  or browse our wide range of epic Egypt tour packages to learn more.

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What to Wear in Egypt & 11 Egypt Packing List Essentials (2024)

Wondering what to wear in Egypt ? You’ve come to the right place! In addition to a complete Egypt packing list, there are also guidelines for everything you will need to pack for a trip to Egypt.

We’ll cover appropriate attire for women in Egypt (men too) , the Cairo dress code and 10 essential items you may be forgetting on your Egypt Packing list.

We found Egypt to be modern, yet conservative. What to wear in Egypt is pretty straightforward but definitely different for men and women. Just follow these few key packing tips you’ll be visiting Egypt with confidence.

You will also find a comprehensive Egypt packing checklist at the bottom, including travel gear and which items to leave at home.

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Table of Contents

Weather and the Best Time to Go to Egypt

The weather in Egypt is something you will want to consider although the majority of the year has pretty high temperatures.

High season – the most popular time to visit, is the winter. December through February has warm daytime temperatures and cool weather by night.

Shoulder season – occurs from October-November and March-April. This time of year is very hot during the day, and so it is best to plan activities for the morning and evening. Book a hotel with a pool to be comfortable mid-day.

Low Season – May through September temperatures can be excruciatingly hot, so I don’t recommend visiting during those months.

What to Wear in Egypt for Women & Men

There are two things people are typically thinking of when trying to figure out what to wear in Egypt. The first is the temperature. Egypt is a desert which means most of the things on your packing list will be for warm, dry weather.

The second and bigger consideration, is the type of clothing that is appropriate for a conservative country like Egypt . The good news is that modest clothing for Egypt doesn’t mean that you have to be fully covered all the time.

Since the sun can be very strong, sunscreen and a hat is essential. Closed toe shoes work the best when you are out touring dusty monuments. A mask will protect you from germs and also help with the dust.

Typically this is a trip where you move around a lot so it will make your life easier if you can pack everything for Egypt in a carry-on suitcase .

Since all your clothing will be lightweight, it will be easy to pack in a smaller bag. Compression packing cubes can help you fit everything into a smaller suitcase as well.

What Men Should Wear in Egypt

In Egypt, men dress smartly. They wear pants and a short sleeve or long sleeve shirt. Some wear the more traditional abaya, which they jokingly refer to as Egyptian air conditioning.

My husband wore shorts and he was assured by people that it was okay but no Egyptian men wore shorts. Men can generally wear what they want in Egypt.

What to Wear in Egypt for Women: Egyptian Outfit

The Egyptian dress code for women is conservative but a little more modern in Cairo than other parts of the country.

• Choose lightweight and airy clothes that don’t expose a lot of skin.
• Outside of beach resorts, crop tops or anything showing your stomach is a hard no.
• Shorts are typically for resorts or cruises. You can wear them in a big tour group but choose shorts that are long enough to cover your butt. If you’re NOT in a big tour group, don’t wear shorts anywhere you wouldn’t wear a bathing suit.

I wore shorts to the train station in Luxor, attracting unwanted attention and almost died of embarrassment. You can see the video that shows it all here.

My Egyptian outfit consisted of a midi or maxi dresses that were short sleeved or sleeveless. Then I added a long sleeved button up shirt and/or scarf when necessary and I wore sneakers.

Many taxis don’t have air conditioning, so being able to get rid of sleeves will be a godsend. You can also wear t-shirts with pants or long skirts. Just make sure they aren’t low cut showing cleavage. You can also pack this Mini Fan .

The Cairo Dress Code

What you wear in Cairo might be different than other parts of your trip. Cairo is a big city with great restaurants and nightlife. You can wear what you would typically wear for a night out as long as it is conservative. There is no dress code per se in Egypt.

Egyptian women wear the same things we do including fitted clothing like skinny jeans and leggings.

They typically wear loose, long sleeved tops with high necklines (no cleavage showing). They don’t wear tank tops, anything with their stomach showing or mini skirts.

For the Pyramids of Giza, you will need modest clothing that offers sun protection. Again, I recommend a sleeveless dress and carrying something to put on top when necessary. It is very hot and there’s no place to get out of the sun.

Mosques in Cairo require women to have shoulders covered, long skirts or pants and head covering. They will typically have you remove your shoes.

10 Things You Will Want to Pack for Egypt

If you are wondering what the best clothing to wear in Egypt is, check out these 10 essential you will want for your Egypt trip..

1. When Packing for Egypt a Scarf Should be #1 on Your List

Something that most people don’t think to pack for warm weather is a scarf but you will wear it often in Egypt. Bring one like this lightweight linen beach gauze shawl that can also cover your shoulders. It is necessary to have your head covered in a mosque.

I brought a scarf but forgot to take it with me when we were going shopping in Cairo. We happened upon a beautiful mosque and they wouldn’t let me in without putting on this borrowed, unfortunately smelly, abaya.

The moral to this story is to pack a light-weight scarf or two in your bag AND it carry with you.

2. Hat to Block the Sun is an Essential Part of Your Egypt Outfit

The sun can be brutal and you’ll find many times when you can’t find a shady spot. You will wear a hat constantly in Egypt. A wide brim straw hat is the best to block the sun.

I like to take an inexpensive packable hat with me that I don’t mind losing or damaging. Other people prefer a designe r packable hat that you can put in your suitcase.

I also brought a fedora hat to change up the look a bit. Two hats are easily packable to if they fit inside each other.

3. A Sun Umbrella is Also a Great Idea for Your Egypt Packing List

The inexpensive 50+ UV protection sun umbrella I packed for Egypt was a lifesaver at the Pyramids of Giza. We were out in the sun for hours with no shade protection and it cut down the amount of heat, which made all the difference.

It comes in 5 different color combinations. We tested umbrellas with white and black underneath. The black underneath was definitely cooler and cut down glare.

To take it up another notch, this double sun umbrella will provide even better protection. The umbrella is so compact that it’s easy to pack in your suitcase or daypack.

4. A Power Bank to Keep Your Phone Charged

A typical day trip in Egypt means that you’ll be using your phone for navigation, photos, videos, getting an Uber and staying in touch. Often that means being out all day or hours traveling between cities. You need to charge your phone on the go .

One of the most important items on your packing list for Egypt is a portable power bank that can charge up to 3 devices simultaneously. You can easily keep it in your pocket or purse all day long and get 3 full charges out of it.

5. Step Down Power Converter and Plug Adapter for Egypt

When you get back at night and are ready to charge your electronics, you need an Egypt plug adapter and a step down voltage converter .

• An international power adapter will work for your phone, computer and dual voltage appliances. Anything that’s NOT dual voltage needs a step down voltage converter.
• Our favorite step down voltage converter has traveled with us all over the world since 2018. This converts the power from 220 volts to 110 volts so you don’t burn out your USA appliances. It has 2 110V outlets and 4 USB ports to charge everything at once.

The voltage converter can take the place of the power adapter if you don’t need more outlets.

Since you can’t buy a step down voltage converter overseas, it’s one of the most important items for your Egypt packing list.

6. Long Sleeve Button-Down Shirt

While Egypt is a more progressive middle eastern country, it is still important to be respectful of the culture and religious beliefs of its people. Furthermore, Egypt is hot.

To stay as cool as possible and protected from the sun while sightseeing, yet still maintain a respectful demeanor, a basic button-down shirt is a must for your Egypt packing list.

Not only is it a versatile piece of clothing for Egypt, but you will wear it during the day or out at night.

7. Wear Comfortable Shoes for Sightseeing in Egypt

There are endless sights to see throughout Egypt, many of which require walking on paths and often through dirt. Since you’ll be doing a lot of walking, your shoes need to be comfortable and protective.

My favorite sneakers to wear on vacation are super comfortable, inexpensive, easy to clean off and they get replaced when necessary. They were perfect to wear in Egypt for almost everything. Don’t bring sneakers you can’t get dirty.

Beyond having regular walking shoes, when going into town to shop for food or trinkets, or even just lounging around the hotel, it’s always nice to have a pair of open, breathable sandals to throw on when you aren’t doing anything too strenuous.

6. Dresses for Egypt

When people ask me what to wear in Egypt, my first answer is a lightweight maxi dress. I found this super soft, lightweight jersey fabric, cami maxi dress that doesn’t wrinkle, comes in 22 colors and is the best deal.

The other dress I found and love is this button up, short sleeve maxi dress that comes in tons of prints and colors. It’s also a great deal and the flowy skirt looks amazing for an Instagram post .

You could pack 2 of each of these dresses to your list for Egypt and barely use any of your packing space. That’s how lightweight and perfect they are.

With a long sleeve shirt to go on top, you would have 8 outfits. You might also consider a lightweight maxi skirt for more versatility.

9. An Anti-Theft Purse or Anti-Theft Backpack Will Keep Your Items Safe in Egypt

An anti-theft travel purse or safe backpack is a must at tourist sights in Egypt since pickpocketing is an issue.

You will find people trying to sell you scarves or things they can use to cover your bag while they grab something. Anti-theft bags have locking zippers, slash-proof straps, and an RFID pocket to protect your passport and credit cards.

Protect yourself with a secure cross-body bag or safe travel backpack that zips up and locks.

ANTI THEFT PURSE OR CROSS-BODY BAG

This anti-theft cross body bag has a locking main compartment, slash-resistant straps, and RFID-blocking slots for credit cards and passports. It also has plenty of room for your phone, a charger, makeup, and an AirTag if lost or stolen.

For Egypt, I wore a small cross body travel wallet that held my credit cards, passport, phone, lip gloss, and hand sanitizer.

The cross body strap held it in front of me and I kept my hands on it when walking through a crowd. The other reason I like it is because it easily fits in my travel backpack without being an extra item for carry on.

READ NEXT: 10 BEST ANTI-THEFT PURSES & CROSS BODY BAGS FOR TRAVEL

ANTI THEFT BACKPACK OR SLING BAG

Men and women love this anti-theft backpack that’s the perfect size to hold everything you need for the day and has a water bottle pocket.

If you prefer, a backpack with a cross body fit, this is the most popular anti-theft sling bag with a hidden pocket on the back and a locking zipper.

My husband carries this roll-top camera backpack . The roll top is impossible for a pickpocket and the part that opens the side of the bag is against your back. There is a padded grid inside to protect your camera and lenses.

They now make an 11-liter camera backpack for women and men that works great for a day pack.

READ NEXT: 9 BEST ANTI-THEFT TRAVEL BACKPACKS FOR MEN & WOMEN

If you don’t have an anti-theft bag, you can get a cable lock to keep the front compartments of your backpack secure.

ANTI THEFT NECK WALLET

Another option is to keep your valuables concealed completely. This top-selling anti-theft neck wallet will hold your phone, cash, credit cards, passport, and keys where no thief can access it.

It’s lightweight and also keeps your hands free, which is perfect if you are out shopping.

10. A Bag Tracking Device

When we became full time travelers in 2023, our Apple AirTags became an essential part of our gear. I can’t even imagine traveling without a bag tracking device anymore.

This is one of the most cost effective items to give you peace of mind while traveling.

Buy an AirTag for each one of your bags so you know where they are at all times. You can buy a single AirTag or save money with an AirTag 4 Pack .

• There should be an AirTag in each checked bag so you know where your bags are even if the airline doesn’t.
• Put one in your backpack or purse and you will get a notification if you ever leave your bag behind.
• If someone steals your bag, you can track it immediately.
• Buy an AirTag holder for your wallet or an AirTag keychain holder to securely attach it to your keys or bag
• We also keep an AirTag on our escape artist of a dog that has paid off multiple times

11. Pack a Mini Fan & Sunscreen to Beat the Heat in Egypt

Rechargable Mini Fan

One of my favorite travel accessories for warm destinations is this Mini Fan . It fits in your pocket and has 3 functions.

Use it as a handheld electric fan or fold it and set it on a desk in your hotel room. It also doubles as a flashlight!

The fan operates for up to 20 hours on one charge. Then just plug it in to a USB charger.

For such an inexpensive item that takes no space in your bag, it’s a game changer when you have to beat the heat!

As we all know, most of Egypt is desert land. In addition to hats and sun umbrellas, you really need high SPF sunscreen that you apply throughout the day.

If you are just staying in cities, use a weightless, clear 30 SPF sunscreen that also works as a makeup primer. It’s my go to everyday sunscreen and it’s perfect travel size will last you for the whole trip.

If you are heading to the Red Sea for water sports and active pursuits, use a broad spectrum reef friendly SPF 50 sunscreen .

READ NEXT : The Best Egypt Itinerary 7 Days in Cairo, Luxor and Aswan

Packing List for Egypt Checklist

• Passport with at least 6 months of validity
• Credit cards, ATM Card and some cash including $25 for visa on arrival
• Driver’s License and insurance card if you plan to rent a car
• A hardcopy of your Travel Insurance policy
• Secure Anti-theft purse
• Camera backpack
• Step Down Voltage Converter
• Egypt plug adapter
• Charging cords
• Compression Packing Cubes
• Comfortable sandals
• Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes
• Lightweight maxi skirt
• Loose fitting wide-leg pants
• Button down shirt
• A lightweight sweater or light jacket
• Lightweight scarf
• Compression socks
• Bathing suit
• Packable hat
• Sun umbrella
• Collapsible Water bottle

Things to Leave off Your Egypt Packing List

• Shorts – Although we typically wear shorts in high temperatures, Egypt is extremely conservative. It is best to not show much skin unless you are on a specific tour or Nile river cruise where shorts are allowed.
• Tank tops and crop tops – Unless you are by the pool or beach, these shouldn’t be worn.
• Heavy jackets – you will rarely ever need any heavy clothing in Egypt. To cover up, a light cardigan or button-down shirt is perfect.
• Valuables – It’s important to leave as many valuables as possible behind. Tourists are very easily targeted, especially in popular destinations, so make sure to keep your essential valuables close to you.
• Drone – we were stopped each time at the airport with our camera equipment. You cannot use a drone so don’t bring it.

Practical Information for Egypt

Egyptian Visa & Money

In Egypt, Visas are offered upon arrival. This means that when land in Cairo, you can enter the country by purchasing a visa. In this case, make sure you bring along 25 USD exactly and purchase your visa before entering customs.

We had no problem with this, although we arrived very early in the morning. You can purchase your Egypt visa in advance here , or if you are on a tour, they will likely coordinate the visa process with you.

The currency in Egypt is Egyptian pounds. Cash is necessary and there are many ATMs available throughout the country. However, there is a limit as to how much you can withdraw so be aware of that.

Safety in Egypt

Even though this is definitely not something you would typically find in a packing guide, many people worry about safety in Egypt. There are some things you can do to plan ahead.

Start by looking up the Egypt Travel Advisory to be aware of any current issues. Since things are constantly changing in the world, we highly recommend travel protection.

There are 2 ways we protect ourselves. We book our tickets with our  Chase Sapphire Preferred  that has built in travel protection and we use  SafetyWing travel insurance . If we ever need to cancel a trip, we are totally covered.

One last note regarding safety: always be aware of your surroundings. No matter where in the world you travel, even if it is within your own country, be alert. Tourists are always a target. The less touristy you look, the better.

As mentioned above use a secure travel purse or secure backpack to protect yourself from petty theft . For more information read our Egypt Travel Tips .

Planning Your Trip to Egypt Last Minute?

Here is a quick reference guide to the tours and hotels we recommend.

• Cairo Private Tour to Pyramids, Sakkara & Memphis with Lunch
• Full or Half-Day East and West Bank Luxor Tours
• 3-Night All-Inclusive Nile Cruise From Luxor to Aswan & Hot Air Balloon
• The St. Regis Cairo – CAIRO
• Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor – LUXOR
• Benben by Dhara Hotels – ASWAN 

You can also get more detailed information on our 7 Day Egypt Itinerary and 15 Things to Know Before Traveling to Egypt for important Egypt travel tips. Lastly, there are short videos for Aswan , Luxor and Cairo on our YouTube channel.

Want to Save What to Wear in Egypt or this Egypt Packing List for later? Pin It!

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About Jenifer

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29 comments, jasmine a owens.

Thank you all for the great tips on dressing. My plans are for the end of Sept 2023. You all have been helpful!

Have a great trip!

Hi, tips re egypt is a 3/4 sleeve maxi just as Ok to take than a shirt sleeve with shirt over the top of it? I read wearwhite isn’t appealing as the colour of the desert sand quickly dirties it. Was this your experience too? Thanks 😊

Hi Jo! 3/4 sleeve maxi is fine. The reason I did a shirt on top was to be able to take it off in the taxi where there was often no A/C. I don’t have a good tolerance for excessive heat, but a lot of people are fine with it. I love white and did not have a problem keeping things white other than my white leather sneakers that I just cleaned at the end of the day with a little water and a towel. Hope you have the best trip!

Jan Schmidt

I’m going to Egypt in October 2023. I was recommended to spray my clothes with Permethrin insect repellent, is this necessary??

We didn’t need to do that and we went in October. I guess you should see if you are going somewhere they expect bugs that were not places on our Egypt itinerary – Aswan, Luxor, Cairo, Giza.

Why do you need a step down power converter ? I already have a plug adapter

A plug adapter is fine for any dual voltage appliances which includes things like an iPhone. But anything that is not dual voltage, needs a step down converter to change the voltage to 110, assuming you are coming from the US. My curling iron starting smoking once when I didn’t have a step down converter.

I’m at the end of day one and want to say thank you for this blog! The Amazon maxi dresses and button down shirts have been lifesavers!

That’s so great to hear. You totally made my day. Thanks for taking the time to tell me. Have the best trip!

Thanks so much for this! We are leaving Tuesday and thankfully, Amazon Prime can get your recommendations delivered by then!

Gotta love Amazon Prime quick delivery!

Hello, one of the things that was ask of me as a requirement for my trio to Egypt was 75€, for tips, and that money was to be given to my Guide and he would negotiate the tips for me, Is that a normal thing to happen|? I have travel to many places and of course we tip but to be a mandatory thing and to have to give the money to the guided never happened before

We didn’t take a tour so I don’t know but Egyptians can be quite persistent trying to get money from tourists. You might try telling him that it isn’t possible for you to tip ahead but that you will do it along the way as services are provided.

We just went to Egypt in January 2022. I did not have to cover my head in the various Mosques as we are not Muslim. Visitors are not expected to per our guide. There were lots of other visitors that did not need to cover. This is cultural and not Islamic/Muslim.

Thanks for sharing. One of the benefits of having a guide is definitely knowing the ins and outs. Another benefit – especially in Egypt is that you are left alone. I was instructed in multiple mosques to wear a covering in addition to being prohibited from carrying a small tripod. When a guide was with us, no one said anything.

This is so great, thank you! I”m planning for my LONG awaited trip coming up this May and while I have travelled enough to know this stuff it’s nice to confirm my ideas and to see a few *specific* suggestions for dresses that have been tested, hats, etc.

TIP for others: I’m bringing an umbrella as well, to help stop the sun too, esp as I’ll be in Jordan in end of May or even June. ~ AdventuressAli

Definitely agree – there’s a great sun umbrella in the list and it’s a lifesaver. We just added a post with great bubble hotels in Jordan if you get to Wadi Rum.

Thank you very much for the great tips and wardrobe links! I’d love a couple of the button down shirts you suggested but they are no longer available. Can you offer suggest a substitute? Going to Egypt in October 2021!

White button down shirt is updated and all other links are being checked now. Thanks for letting me know. Hope you have an amazing trip!

Thanks for these wonderful tips. It’s really helpful. Following your blog since a very long time and I am pretty happy from the insights I am getting via it.

I’m planning to go to Egypt this year. God willing. Where did you get that red skirt? It’s beautiful!

Hope you are able to go. It’s the trip of a lifetime! Here’s a link for the dress but it may be sold out. https://bit.ly/3cbOVqT

Mark Burnett

Yes, I agreed! The best time to visit Egypt is in December, I had visited therein in 2018 and it was a great time there. Thanks for sharing this such a great article,

Avis Lawton

I have visited Egypt last year, before corona and I can agree with this that Egypt is modern but conservative. I am going to visit it next year again just when the covid-19 gets into normal and thanks for this Closed-toe shoe idea.

Such a breathtaking place indeed. Happy New Year dear!

I’d love to visit Egypt one day! This is such a helpful guide, thank you! You took so many beautiful photos while you were there as well. I wear a lot of maxi skirts and dresses so it’s good I could just rewear my regular wardrobe there!

Hope you had a merry Christmas 🙂 We had a great time with family and so much good food! Have a happy new year 🙂

Your current wardrobe sounds perfect for a trip to Egypt. We can all reduce our carbon footprint by loving the clothes that are already in our closets. Happy New Year!

I would love to go to Egypt!

Jennifer Effortlessly Sophisticated

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• What to Pack for Egypt: The Ultimate Egypt Packing List

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Traveling in Egypt can be chaotic, but packing doesn’t have to be! Many people struggle to figure out what to pack for Egypt, mostly because they have no idea what they can (or should) wear. Can I wear leggings in Egypt? Should I wear a headscarf? Is wearing shorts disrespectful? These are questions I get all the time about Egypt travel, amongst others .

I’ve visited Egypt in every season and have put together the complete Egypt packing list. It includes a comprehensive guide on what to wear in Egypt and what to pack for your trip no matter what the season. Without further ado: what to pack for Egypt!

Table of Contents

Weather in Egypt

There’s really no bad time to visit Egypt, as the weather is generally pleasant year-round, with the exception of scorching hot summers.

November – March:  This is the best time to visit for cooler weather and generally empty sites (with the exception of December and early January because of school holidays). Winter is mild (50s-60s in December – February) in Egypt but Alexandria (and sometimes Cairo) does see quite a bit of rain during this period.

April – May / September – October: These are the best months to visit Egypt, especially if you’re interested in traveling both in the North and the South. The weather is warmer but not scorching, so it’s pleasant enough to both hike and hit the beaches.l

June – August:  If you don’t mind the heat, summer in Egypt is perfect for all-day beach and pool lounging. This is peak tourism season at the Red Sea. Cairo , Luxor , and Aswan have fewer tourists due to temperatures that reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

What to Pack in: Luggage and Accessories

Over the years, I’ve somewhat perfected become better at only packing things I need and packing carry-on only (for the most part) for most of my trips. Except for like, months and months of travel, in which case, I like to have options.

If you’re traveling to Egypt, chances are you’ll be visiting at least two or three cities which means you’ll be lugging your luggage from place to place via some mode of public transport. I’ve been the person that drags a wheelie suitcase through the streets (seriously, I did it on my Intrepid tour ) and it’s honestly just not practical. So even if you aren’t usually a backpacker, I highly recommend bringing a backpack in Egypt for ease of transport. Doing laundry is inexpensive anyway, so it’s easier to wash your clothes once or twice instead of bringing two weeks worth of clothing in a giant bag. Trust me on this one.

• Backpack: This backpack  is hands down the best carry-on-sized backpack I’ve ever used for travel. Not only is it carry-on sized, but it’s also incredibly comfortable and easy to carry, even for a small-framed person like me. It has tons of pockets and compartments for organization, lockable zippers, and it’s weather resistant. If you really don’t think you can handle packing in a carry-on, the  Osprey Fairview 70 Backpack is just as comfortable but larger. You can also technically get away with using it as a carry on and the additional pack as your personal item. Win!
• Packing Cubes: I never understood why people needed packing cubes until I got some of my own. Guys, they’re the BEST for keeping organized! I can no longer travel without them. Now I avoid what I fondly call “exploding suitcase syndrome” – that tendency for all your things to go all over the place every time you need to get one thing from your suitcase. I’m a fan of these ones made specifically for the backpack I recommended, but if you have a different backpack, these compression packing cubes  are pretty great too!
• Daypack: For days where I’m out all day, I always carry a daypack. This daypack is great because it’s durable, water-resistant, has several organizational pockets, and folds into a tiny pouch.
• Locking Purse: Egypt doesn’t have a pickpocketing problem and I’ve never been worried that someone will snatch something from my bag. However, I’d rather be safe than sorry, which is why I bring this handy lockable purse with me everywhere I travel. Is it the most stylish purse I’ve ever owned? No. Does it keep me from worrying about pickpockets? Absolutely. Plus, it’s surprisingly roomy – I keep my water bottle, camera, wallet, and other stuff in there and they fit no problem. If a smaller purse is what you’re after, check out this one or this one .
• Organizing bags: I learned the hard way on my first solo trip that keeping your bag organized is crucial. Otherwise, you end up repacking your bag every other day, which suuuuucks. Therefore, in addition to your packing cubes, bring along an electronics organizer (especially if you travel with a ton of gear), shoe bags (to keep your shoes away from your clean clothes, of course), a laundry bag (you can also use a separate packing cube if you prefer), and a  toiletries bag (liquids spilling on your clothes make for a bad time).

What to Wear in Egypt: Clothing and Shoes for Every Season

I know that clothing is always the hardest thing to pack because you want to bring clothes that are both functional and cute which is NOT easy. What you’ll pack and wear in Egypt as a whole depends entirely on the season and which areas you’re traveling in.  In general, Egypt is a conservative country.  People tend to dress smartly and you’ll stand out if you’re wandering around in workout gear, loungewear, or revealing or ultra-tight clothing.

Women don’t have to cover their hair, but as a rule of thumb, cleavage, shoulders, and knees (to mid-calf, really) should be covered at all times, except at beach resorts. The same goes for men, especially if you want to somewhat blend in. Nobody will ever call tourists out for not adhering to this dress code, but I’m a firm believer in respecting local customs.

At beach resorts, you can more or less wear what you want at the beach and pool (although women shouldn’t go topless). However, wearing a cover-up or shirt at hotel restaurants, etc is a good idea.

If you’re visiting Cairo in the winter, it gets mildly cold (50s – 70s Fahrenheit). Leave your winter coat at home, but bring some sweaters, jackets, and pants. Alexandria is usually colder than Cairo, whereas Upper Egypt is warm, even during the winter. In the summer, it’s blazing hot everywhere.

Summer: (3) temperature regulating t-shirts, (3) blouses/t-shirts, (1) insect repelling long-sleeved shirt, (2) pairs of loose-fitting pants, (1) pair of jeans/nicer pants, (2) skirts, (1) dress, everything else in the other categories except for the down jacket

Winter: (2) temperature regulating t-shirts, (2) temperature-regulating long-sleeved shirts, (3) blouses / lighter sweaters, (1) pair of loose-fitting pants, (2) pairs of jeans/nicer pants, (1) dress, everything else in the other categories 

• Basic temperature regulating t-shirt: No matter what the season, you’ll want at least one basic temperature regulating shirt, like this one . This T is specially made to be moisture-wicking, anti-odor, and offer SPF protection. Plus, it doesn’t look like an exercise top but still offers a lot of the benefits of high-performance clothing. It’s cute enough to be dressed up with a cardigan or nice scarf. If you decide you love these shirts and want more, try this one .
• Insect repellant top: Honestly, you’ll probably only need this top in the summer since insects and mosquitos in Egypt are pretty dormant in winter. If you’re particularly concerned, you can also purchase Permethrin spray to spray on your clothing before you go. It lasts up to six washes.
• Long-sleeved temperature regulating top: If you’re traveling in the winter, you probably want more than just one of these tops . Winter in Egypt is mild: fairly warm during the day and cool at night. You’ll want temperature regulating tops that account for the variation in temperature. Even if you travel during the summer and you end up hiking or camping, you’ll want at least one of these tops.
• Blouses / Shirts: For the rest of the time when you’re out and about, you’ll want to bring along some cute tops (short or long-sleeved depending on your sensitivity to the sun). People generally don’t dress sloppily so keep that in mind when choosing clothes. Just make sure whatever you pack is lightweight!
• Cardigan: Having a cardigan on hand for cool evenings or for entering mosques is a must. You’ll also want an additional layer if you take a bus/train/plane anywhere.
• Lightweight, loose pants: If you’re going to Egypt in the summer, you’ll want loose and lightweight everything, including pants . I’m a fan of this particular style but anything lightweight, but not sloppy, will do. If you’re traveling in winter, you’ll probably want just one pair of lightweight pants and two pairs of jeans. Mix and match according to the season and your personal style.
• Jeans/nicer pants: If it’s summer, don’t bother bringing jeans. It’s way too hot to wear them. However, you’ll probably want to bring along at least one pair of nicer pants for evenings. If you’re traveling during winter, you’ll want to bring a few pairs of jeans/nice pants and maybe one pair of lightweight ones. Mix and match according to the season. Anyway, prAna is my go-to brand of choice for pants that are comfortable for all-day travel and outdoor activities without being ugly. They also have nice jeans as well!
• Skirts: If you’re traveling to Egypt in winter, you probably only need one skirt , if any at all. During summer, a couple will do. Make sure they’re long and they match with your tops!
• Dress: If you’re traveling during summer, bring one nicer casual dress that you can wear both during the day and in the evening. If you’re traveling during winter, you can bring one just in case or bring a skirt and a nice top. Either way, make sure you bring something that covers  below the knee and either covers your shoulders or can be paired with a cardigan.
• Secret pocket scarf: One of my favorite minimalist hacks for travel is to bring several scarves and several basic shirts and mixing and matching them to make it look like a whole new outfit. Cool trick, right? My favorite scarf to pack for every trip is this secret pocket scarf . It’s cute and functional and has the added bonus of having a hidden pocket, where you can keep your passport, some money, or any other valuable you’re worried about.
• Large scarf or shawl: Having a large scarf on hand is super helpful for impromptu mosque visits or to protect your skin when the sun is feeling just a little too strong. Plus, it’s a cute accessory for an outfit as well!
• Swimsuit: Yes, you can wear a bikini in Egypt but a one piece is a little more respectful. Definitely no topless sunbathing or swimming.
• Cover-up: Out of respect, bring a cover-up and wear it if you’re lounging around a resort or hotel.
• Sun hat: Your skin will want a break from the strong Egyptian sun, especially if you’re prone to burning. Check out your options here .
• Sunglasses: No explanation necessary. Yes, you need them in winter too.

Outerwear and Underwear

• (2) Bras, (1) workout bra, (7) underwear: I always bring this workout bra for outdoorsy days or if I want to hit the hotel gym because it keeps moisture and smells away. Same goes for this underwear (plus, it dries quickly for easy washing). I also pack a couple of my regular t-shirt bras and voila. Done with undergarments.
• Moisture-wicking socks: These moisture-wicking socks  are perfect for all-day wear without smelly or sweaty feet. Just a few pairs will do.
• Fleece: Even in the summer, you’ll want to bring a fleece for potential early morning hikes, overnight camping trips, or for dealing with freezing cold long-distance buses and trains.
• Packable down jacket:  There are some winter days when it gets pretty chilly so a proper jacket does come in handy. I really like this packable one because it’s warm but doesn’t take up much room in your suitcase.
• I like bringing leggings and a basic t-shirt to wear as pajamas just in case there’s an off chance I need to wash them and wear them as clothes in a pinch. Or layer with them if it gets cold. Either way, don’t forget pajamas.
• Sandals: I love these Keen sandals because they’re cute and super comfortable to walk in all day. I bring them with me everywhere and they haven’t failed me yet. If you prefer hiking sandals, I’ve used these in Costa Rica and they’re perfect for the great outdoors.
• Flats: I pretty much live in flats and sandals but it’s taken me a long time and lots of trial and error to find some that are cute, comfortable and durable. Both the Sketchers Ballet Flat and BOBS shoes fit the bill. I usually bring both with me when I travel but you really only need one pair of flats.
• All-purpose sneakers: Last year, a friend of mine introduced me to Allbirds, these awesome wool sneakers that don’t make your feet sweat (even if you wear them without socks). Then I found out they’re made of Merino Wool, which explains the magic behind them. They’re cute, they’re functional, and they’re comfy AF. You can wear them to hike up a mountain or to explore a new city. They’re my go-to travel shoes and if they get dirty, I can throw them in the wash. These are  especially visiting The Pyramids useful when and other historical sites!
• Water shoes (optional): If you’re headed to the beach and don’t want to jump in with your sandals, you’ll definitely want to pack this pair of water shoes . A lot of the beaches in Egypt have pointed jagged rocks and some even have sea urchins. Lesson learned the hard way. If you’re planning on swimming, you’ll need to wear some sort of footwear into the water.

What to Pack: Toiletries and Accessories 

• Oral care: Don’t forget to pack your toothbrush, toothpaste , and floss sticks along. Your favorite brands might be a little more expensive so it’s easier to just bring your stuff with you.
• Razors: I like to avoid looking like I just shaved my legs for the first time so I never use crappy hotel razors. I use the ultra-compact yet powerful Venus Snap for shorter trips. If you don’t have sensitive skin, you can easily pick up a razor at a pharmacy in Egypt.
• Deodorant:  Cause…sweat.
• Shampoo, Conditioner, Leave-in conditioner, and Soap: Word to the wise – your favorite hair and skincare brands (especially if you use ultra-niche or expensive brands) might not be available in Egypt or might be really expensive. I personally bring solid shampoo and conditioner bars because they’re lighter, last way longer, and don’t spill on your stuff. I like this shampoo bar and this conditioner bar , but of course, buy/bring whatever suits your hair type. Leave-in conditioner is a must because the water in Egypt has some funky things in it that will dry out your hair. I like this one and this one . As for soap, I bring along the miraculous Dr. Bronner’s Castille Soap , which you can use to clean yourself, clothing, dishes, and more. I learned about it from some traveling friends a few years ago and now it’s my go-to travel soap!
• Hand Sanitizer and face wipes: Egypt is a dry desert that’s dusty AF, which means you’ll be experiencing the lovely combination of being sweaty and sandy. Fun! Face wipes or baby wipes will help you stay refreshed and cleanish, while hand sanitizer is useful for general…er, sanitizing. Especially if a bathroom isn’t handy or it doesn’t have soap (also learned from personal experience, sigh).
• Makeup: I’ve never been much of a makeup queen and generally get by with tinted moisturizer , mascara ,  eyebrow pencil , eyeliner , and lipstick  both on the road and at home. However, my makeup-loving younger sister says that yes, you do need these great  travel-sized brushes and that you should buy travel-sized versions of your favorite makeup if you really can’t go makeup minimalist for a week or two. Just know that anything that’s prone to melting (in the case or off your face) probably isn’t best to bring anyway.
• Chapstick: Use it often and buy the SPF kind . If your lips aren’t drying out from the air, they’re getting sunburned from the sun.
• Sunscreen: I’m 100% African and I’ve gotten sunburned in Egypt. So even if you’ve never burned before, don’t test your luck and pack some good sunscreen. It’s expensive in Egypt and not always easy to find because locals don’t use it. For everyday use, I use Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen because my skin is prone to acne. The original Neutrogena sunscreen is just as good if acne is a non-issue. Neither will leave your skin feeling gross and greasy. For the rest of me, I use the solid body stick, which works well. My friends who dive told me that the chemicals in sunscreen are really bad for the ocean though, so if you’re going swimming, they recommend All Good Sunscreen , which is safe for reefs and the planet. The more you know!
• Insect repellent: If you’re traveling to Egypt in the summer, you’ll definitely want insect repellent. It’s not as bad as when you’re traveling to tropical destinations, but even so, the mosquitos are pretty relentless. This insect repellent specifically was voted number one in consumer tests and I can vouch for that fact that I’ve gotten fewer bites using it. Plus, you can use it on your clothes and your skin and it doesn’t make you feel or smell gross!
• Chafing gel: The only time I ever wish for a thigh gap is when it’s hot and I’m wearing a skirt or dress. Chub rub, that uncomfortable rawness you get between your thighs from them rubbing together, is  very real, especially when it’s hot out. I used this anti-chafing balm all summer long while I was in Egypt, and my only disappointment is how long it took me to figure out that it’s a thing that exists.
• Menstruation things: If pads are your period weapon of choice (and you don’t want to pack some), you can easily find your favorite brands in Egypt. However, tampons and menstrual cups are nearly impossible to find so do yourself a favor and pack some along with you.
• Skincare: As much as I’m a makeup minimalist, I’m somewhat of a skincare maximalist. I use a variety of products, which I pack into these teeny travel containers . What I don’t skimp on, though, is face moisturizer, and neither should you. Your skin will dry out from the heat and all that sun. I love the Cerave PM moisturizer (shout out to my dermatologist!) and this bottle comes in a 3 oz size, which makes it TSA-friendly. Don’t forget to pack a good body lotion too. Your body needs hydration as well.
• Miscellaneous:  In terms of jewelry, I  usually bring 3 pairs of earrings plus what I’m already wearing, and a few cute and matching bracelets and necklaces. Not necessities but I gotta be cute, ok? I also pack a  waterproof phone pouch (more for keeping my phone dry than taking good underwater photos), and this perfume bottle atomizer so I can bring my favorite perfume along. Lastly, don’t forget a hairbrush, hair ties and bobby pins.

Travel Safety and First Aid

• Travel Insurance: Yes, you need travel insurance for if things (hopefully don’t but often do) go wrong. I’ve been sick, needed stitches, crashed a rental car, had cash stolen and have dealt with luggage delays. Let’s just say I’ve learned my lesson about travel insurance the hard way. My go-to insurance is  World Nomads  cause they’re awesome. Be sure to check out the different plan options to pick one that’s right for you!
• Luggage Locks: Your stuff can definitely get stolen from your suitcase, whether you’re going through airport security, taking a bus or train, or staying at a hostel (or hotel, even). I’m not saying it’s going to happen, but I’m a worrywart and like to prepare for the worst. So I bring a couple of these small TSA-approved locks with me whenever I travel. Sure, I can’t stop someone from running off with my entire bag, but at least I can stop pickpockets in their track, heyyyy!
• Anti Diarrheal: First of all, hate to break it to you, but there’s a really high chance you will get diarrhea in Egypt. Maybe an upset stomach too. I don’t know what it is about the food ( it’s too yummy , maybe?) but it took me like four visits until I was able to rid myself of it. Many people travel with Imodium , every traveler’s favorite treatment for travel diarrhea. My doctor tells me that you shouldn’t stop whatever is making you sick from leaving your system. However, I totally get that there are times where “better out than in” just doesn’t work. So bring Imodium if you’d like, but use it only when you need to.
• Rehydration Salts: Egypt is hot and if you’re out and about all day, it’s easy to get dehydrated. Diarrhea also doesn’t help. These rehydration salts are perfect for electrolyte replenishment, especially when you can’t keep anything down. I speak from personal experience here.
• Advil: I always bring some pain reliever with me in case of body aches, cramps, etc. They’re just good to have.
• Dramamine: I’m thankful that my motion sickness only warrants medication when I’m on a boat, but I totally get that others are more sensitive. If you end up on a camping trip of some sort or take long-distance public transportation, chances are high you’ll be in for a bumpy ride. I prefer the non-drowsy Dramamine so I can still be a functioning human being during the day (not that naps aren’t nice too).
• Travel First Aid Kit: I love that this travel first aid kit is small enough to stick in your bag but still has tons of items in it. I’d remove the scissors if you aren’t planning to check your luggage, but otherwise, this is incredibly handy, especially if you’re going to be doing outdoorsy things.

What to Pack: Electronics

• VPN: For those of you who don’t know, a VPN (virtual private network) is a service that allows you to securely and privately route your internet through a server. Basically, it makes your internet think you’re in one place when you’re in a different one. Why do you need this? Well, if you want to access your bank account or any secure online account, the sites get super sketched out when you’re in a foreign country. It makes accessing some of these sites annoying or downright impossible. Another reason to get a VPN is that there are a fair amount of sites that are blocked in Egypt. It’s mostly news and pop culture sites, but it’s still a pain. Quite a few VPNs don’t work in Egypt but luckily, NordVPN is powerful enough to get around all the blocks. Yay for internet security!
• Power bank: I don’t know if I’m a phone addict or what (jk, the answer to that is an unfortunate but resounding yes) but I legit don’t understand how people can travel without a power bank. You’re out and about all day and using your phone to navigate, take photos, and who knows what else. I always carry my  Anker PowerCore  while I’m out. It’s light, holds multiple charges, and charges phones quickly. Win!
• An eSIM:  Once upon a time, I used to collect SIM cards like 90’s kids collected Beanie Babies. I had one for each country I visited and multiple phone numbers I could never remember. Why? So I could always have internet (I’m an addict and I know it). Nowadays, I use an  eSIM . I get internet pretty much everywhere and can use it for multiple devices. Plus, I get to keep my actual number and contacts in my phone. Win!
• Universal travel adapter: After accidentally bringing the wrong plug for a country multiple times, I learned my lesson and bought a couple of universal travel adapters . You can use them in every country and never have to worry about plugs again, yay! This one also has USB slots, which is super handy if you are mainly charging phones, cameras, and tablets. I usually pack two just in case and charge all my stuff with a power strip (linked below).
• Travel Camera(s): I know all the cool kids are about that #iPhoneOnly life, but I still like taking photos with a camera. Does that make me old? Whatever, I’m embracing it. Anyway, for adventure footage and photos, the latest GoPro is seriously the best. It’s waterproof, image stabilizing, and a bunch of other cool features. If you’re looking for a nice digital camera that doesn’t involve complicated lenses, I personally use the Sony RX100 II , which I’m obsessed with. This is the older model (I think they’re on the 6 now) but it works great. The Carl Zeiss lens helps take spectacular, high-quality photos but the camera is small enough to fit in a purse. I also bring my Instax Mini 9 with me cause I’m extra like that, but I also understand that most normal people don’t travel with three cameras.
• Kindle: Confession: I’m low-key a book fiend and chances are high that I’m currently in the middle of reading something. As a traveler, I don’t have the luxury of taking up precious space in my suitcase with a book or three. I was uncertain about buying a Kindle  initially, but it’s one of the best purchases I’ve ever made. Not only can you keep guidebooks on there, but it’s also nice to be able to read at your leisure on those long distance trips or at the beach. This particular Kindle magically blocks sun glare somehow (sorcery, I tell you!), which is why I prefer it to reading on a tablet.
• Portable Travel Strip (optional): If you’re one of those annoying people charging your phone, laptop, and camera at the same time (read: me), bringing a small travel strip along makes powering your devices that much more efficient. I know I’m extra. Sorry, not sorry.
• Headphones: There are a lot of things that suck about planes, but bad headphones don’t have to be one of them. The small Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones do a pretty good job of blocking ambient sound on airplanes (and everywhere else). They’re small and they’re wired, making them much more practical for travel than the bulky over-ear headphones.
• Laptop/Tablet (optional):  I work online for a living, so I always bring my MacBook Air with me. I don’t like or use tablets personally. However, you might want to bring along a lightweight laptop or your tablet just in case. Travel planning is hard to do on a smartphone (which you should also bring by the way).

What to Pack: Travel Accessories

• Insulated water bottle and water purifier or water purifying bottle: I always bring a water bottle with me when I travel because single-use plastic sucks for the planet and buying lots of bottled water is expensive and inconvenient. If you’re wondering if you can drink the tap water in Egypt, the answer is a resounding no. What you can do is drink filtered, purified water. I bring along a Steripen , a UV water purifier that gets rid of 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, and protozoa and use it in combination with my CamelBak Insulated Water Bottle . This bottle is particularly awesome because it holds 20 oz and keeps water cold, which you’ll want in a hot country like Egypt. If you’d rather purchase an all-in-one solution, Grayl’s water filtering bottle is a great alternative so you can fill directly from the tap and drink almost immediately.
• Microfiber towel: Pretty much all hotels will have towels for use on hand, but I find that it’s always nice to have a towel I can use when I travel, whether I’m on the beach, at an impromptu picnic, or just a bit chilly. This Wise Owl Camping Towel dries super quickly, takes up almost no room and comes with a bonus face/hand towel for hikes and outdoor activities. I always bring it with me when I travel, whether I’m staying in a hostel or not.
• Travel pillow: First of all, if you don’t already use a travel pillow while you’re on a plane, I’m seriously impressed because I can’t board a flight without one! In Egypt, you’ll definitely want to bring one along, not just for the plane but also for sleeping on long-distance trains and/or buses. Best believe I’m recommending that dorky but ultra comfortable Trtl travel pillow . It’s super comfortable and designed to hold your head in a proper sleeping position. Plus, it’s easy to just attach to your backpack when you aren’t using it so you don’t have to worry about bending the brace.
• Eye mask and earplugs: I have the hardest time sleeping pretty much anywhere that isn’t a bed, which I know is ridiculous considering how often I travel. I find that making my environment as quiet and dark as possible helps, which is why I travel with both  earplugs and this funny-looking eye mask . If you’re planning on staying in the city center (especially in Cairo), there’s a high chance that the street noise will be annoying enough to interrupt your sleep. I highly recommend bringing earplugs, even if you don’t sleep with them normally.
• Travel toilet paper: Toilet paper isn’t always a thing in Egypt, because people use bidets to keep their booties clean. I never understood why there isn’t toilet paper to dry off, but now I know to bring my own and I’m passing that wisdom on to you. You can always buy toilet paper while there or take some from your hotel, but I like to keep some of these small toilet paper rolls in my purse and not worry about it. Toilet seat covers are 100% not a thing (like at all outside of North America from what I’ve seen) so if you’re particularly worried about hygiene, there are also travel toilet seat covers . Note: don’t flush anything down the toilet in Egypt, not even toilet paper. The pipes can’t handle it. 
• Sleeping bag liner: I’m not a germaphobe by any means but have camped and stayed in hostels enough times to know that sometimes the bedding is…questionable. Or just plain uncomfortable. This silk sleeping bag liner will make you feel ultra-luxurious and put a barrier between you and your bedding, which has made me feel better while camping in The White Desert , sleeping on a felucca, and staying in budget hotels.
• Travel clothesline: This travel clothesline has been my lifesaver when I’ve hand-washed clothing or have a wet swimsuit or towel that I need to dry. Although doing laundry in Egypt is really inexpensive, it may not be worth the hassle if you have just a few things to wash or are moving through cities quickly. The clothesline is more a nice to have rather than a must-have depending on your travel style.
• Egyptian Arabic Phrasebook: This Arabic phrasebook is more of a nice to have than a necessity. However, you might find it particularly useful if you’re traveling through Egypt independently, especially if you’re not at tourist sites. Google Translate works in a pinch, but it translates to Modern Standard Arabic, not Egyptian Arabic, which sounds really different.
• Lonely Planet Guidebook: I’m one of those people who uses blogs to plan my trip but brings along a guidebook when I’m in another country. I know it’s weird, but I like having a reference along. Totally not a necessity if you’ve done proper research and/or have internet access.

More Egypt Resources

• 30+ Awesome Things to Do in Cairo, Egypt: The Ultimate Cairo Travel Guide
• 2 Days in Luxor Itinerary: The Best Things to Do, See, and Eat in Luxor
• 2 Days in Aswan Itinerary: Best Things to Do in Aswan, Egypt
• Egypt Travel Guide
• Pharaohs and Feluccas: Exploring Egypt with Intrepid Travel
• Camping in the White Desert, Egypt: A First Timer’s Guide
• Traditional Egyptian Food Guide: 20 Must Eat Foods in Cairo, Egypt
• Egypt Travel Tips for the First Time Visitor: Expectations vs Reality
• Bellies En-Route Downtown Cairo Food Tour: The Best Thing to Do in Cairo for Foodies
• Visiting the Pyramids of Giza, Egypt: Everything to Know Before You Go
• Where to Stay in Cairo, Egypt: The Best Hotels in Cairo for Every Budget

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10 thoughts on “ What to Pack for Egypt: The Ultimate Egypt Packing List ”

This was very helpful. Thank you!

You’re welcome, I’m glad you found it useful!

Thank you, Sally. I’m hoping to go to Egypt in September (fingers crossed!). This is exactly what I was looking for.

Glad you found it helpful, Dawn! Hope you have a great trip 🙂

If I can only visit one additional tomb should it be King Tut or King Ramses? I’m leaving for Egypt next week!

It depends if you’re more interested in seeing the mummified body (Tut) or colorful hieroglyphs (Ramses). This article might help: https://www.earthtrekkers.com/best-tombs-to-visit-in-the-valley-of-the-kings-luxor/

Have so much fun on your trip!

Your article was super helpful! I appreciate your suggestions/ideas!

Glad you found them helpful 🙂

Very good advice. Thanks. Doing the tour with Gate 1

You’re welcome. Have a great trip!

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Egypt in April: Spend Top Tours and Holidays to Egypt in April 2024

Egypt in April promises an enchanting journey that blends history, culture, and natural beauty. As the golden hues of the Egyptian sun cast a warm glow upon ancient landscapes, April unfolds like a magical tapestry, revealing the timeless charm of this mesmerizing country. With its mild temperatures and a sense of renewal in the air, April provides the perfect canvas for travelers to immerse themselves in the wonders of this extraordinary land. Join us as we embark on a virtual expedition through the wonders of Egypt , exploring the captivating experiences that make this destination unforgettable during the spring of April.

Travel to Egypt in April with Jakada Tours

As April unfolds, Jakada Tours invites you to immerse yourself in the magic of this enchanting country, where the weather is mild and the landscapes come alive with vibrant colors. Picture yourself cruising along the timeless Nile River , beholding the wonders of ancient civilizations, and savoring the authentic flavors of Egyptian cuisine – all meticulously curated by Jakada Tours to create an experience that transcends the ordinary.

Best 10 Places to Visit in Egypt in April 2024/2025

While the best places to visit can vary depending on personal preferences, here are ten popular destinations in Egypt that you might consider for your trip in April 2024 or 2025:

1- Cairo: The Heartbeat of Ancient and Modern Egypt

In April, the bustling capital city of Cairo emerges as a vibrant tapestry where antiquity meets modernity. Begin your journey at the iconic Giza Plateau , home to the timeless wonders of the Pyramids and the Sphinx . As the spring breeze whispers of history, explore the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, a treasure trove of centuries-old artifacts. Cairo’s vibrant markets, such as Khan El Khalili, beckon with a sensory overload of colors, scents, and sounds, offering a perfect blend of the past and present.

2- Luxor: A Living Open-Air Museum Along the Nile

As April unfolds, Luxor, often called the world’s greatest open-air museum, invites you to enter the pages of ancient history. Cruise along the Nile to Luxor and witness the breathtaking temples of Karnak and Luxor on the East Bank, illuminated under the golden Egyptian sun. Cross the river to the West Bank, where the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens reveal the fascinating stories of Egyptian pharaohs and queens etched into the very fabric of the landscape.

3- Aswan: Tranquility Along the Nile’s Nubian Beauty

April sets the stage for a serene exploration of Aswan , nestled along the Nubian stretches of the Nile. Sail on a felucca, a traditional wooden sailboat, around Elephantine Island and witness the golden hues of the sunset casting a warm glow over the Aga Khan Mausoleum. Explore the Philae Temple , dedicated to the goddess Isis , and the High Dam , engineering marvels that stand testament to ancient and modern achievements.

4- Alexandria: A Coastal Gem of Hellenistic Heritage

Venture north to Alexandria , where the Mediterranean breeze carries tales of a bygone era. April offers a temperate climate for strolling along the Corniche, gazing at the vast expanse of the Mediterranean. Visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern tribute to the ancient Library of Alexandria , and explore the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa , a fascinating blend of Egyptian and Greco-Roman artistry buried beneath the city.

5- Siwa Oasis: A Tranquil Retreat in the Western Desert

For a unique experience, head to the Siwa Oasis in Egypt’s Western Desert. April’s moderate temperatures make it an ideal time to explore this serene haven. Surrounded by lush date palm groves, visit the Oracle Temple of Amun, where ancient rituals once unfolded. Take a dip in Cleopatra’s Bath, a natural spring amid the desert, and savor the tranquility of this off-the-beaten-path destination. In April, Egypt beckons with diverse experiences, from the iconic to the secluded, creating a tapestry of memories that will linger long after your journey concludes.

6- Dahab: Coastal Paradise on the Red Sea

As April brings mild temperatures to Egypt, head to the coastal town of Dahab on the shores of the Red Sea . Famous for its vibrant coral reefs and laid-back atmosphere, Dahab is a haven for snorkelers and divers. Explore the Blue Hole, a renowned diving spot, or unwind on the shores of the Red Sea, where the turquoise waters and golden sands create a picturesque setting for relaxation and adventure.

7- Fayoum Oasis: Nature’s Canvas Amid Ancient Ruins

Escape the hustle and bustle by venturing to the tranquil Fayoum Oasis. In April, the weather is ideal for exploring Lake Qarun, where migratory birds gather and ancient ruins dot the landscape. Wander through the Valley of the Whales, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and witness fossilized remains of prehistoric whales embedded in the desert, offering a unique glimpse into Egypt’s geological history.

8- Marsa Alam: Coastal Serenity in the Red Sea Riviera

Escape to Marsa Alam , a tranquil resort town along the Red Sea Riviera. With its pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs, April provides an ideal climate for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing by the sea. Encounter marine life in the crystal-clear waters, and perhaps witness the nesting rituals of sea turtles, adding a touch of wildlife to your coastal retreat.

9- White Desert: Surreal Landscapes of Chalk Formations

Embark on a surreal adventure to the White Desert, a unique landscape where wind-sculpted chalk formations create an otherworldly panorama. April’s moderate temperatures make it comfortable to camp beneath the starlit sky, surrounded by these ghostly white sculptures. As the sunlight paints the desert in warm hues, immerse yourself in a dreamlike experience amid nature’s artistic creations.

April’s diverse mosaic of Egypt’s destinations unveils many experiences, from spiritual retreats and archaeological wonders to coastal paradises and surreal landscapes. Each destination adds a layer to Egypt’s narrative, inviting travelers to delve deeper into the richness of this captivating country.

10- Qena: Gateway to Ancient Temples of Abydos and Dendera

Venture to Qena, a city on the Nile, serving as a gateway to two remarkable ancient temple complexes—Abydos and Dendera . April offers a favorable climate to explore the intricacies of the Temple of Seti I in Abydos, known for its well-preserved hieroglyphics. With its Hathor Temple, Dendera adds another layer to Egypt’s historical richness, making Qena a hidden gem for history enthusiasts.

April Temperatures in Egypt

In Egypt, April is considered a spring month, and temperatures across the country are generally moderate and pleasant. However, it’s essential to note that temperatures can vary depending on the specific location. Here are the min and max temperature ranges for some key cities and regions in Egypt in April:

Weather in Egypt in April

In April, Egypt experiences pleasant spring weather with warm temperatures, making it an excellent time to visit. Here’s a general overview of the weather you can expect in various regions of Egypt during this month:

Cairo and Nile Delta:

• Daytime temperatures: 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F)
• Nighttime temperatures: 12°C to 19°C (54°F to 66°F)
• Generally, April in Cairo sees warm and sunny days, with mild evenings.

Luxor (Upper Egypt):

• Daytime temperatures: 23°C to 35°C (73°F to 95°F)
• Nighttime temperatures: 11°C to 19°C (52°F to 66°F)
• Luxor tends to be warmer in April, with hot afternoons and pleasant evenings.

Aswan (Southern Egypt):

• Daytime temperatures: 24°C to 37°C (75°F to 99°F)
• Nighttime temperatures: 13°C to 21°C (55°F to 70°F)
• Aswan experiences higher temperatures, especially during the day, making it a great destination for sun enthusiasts.

Alexandria (Mediterranean Coast):

• Daytime temperatures: 17°C to 23°C (63°F to 73°F)
• Nighttime temperatures: 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F)
• The coastal city of Alexandria enjoys milder temperatures, making it a comfortable destination for those who prefer cooler weather.

Red Sea Resorts (e.g., Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh):

• Daytime temperatures: 22°C to 29°C (72°F to 84°F)
• Nighttime temperatures: 15°C to 21°C (59°F to 70°F)
• The Red Sea resorts offer warm temperatures, ideal for beach activities and water sports.

It’s essential to remember that these are average temperature ranges, and actual conditions may vary. Additionally, check for any specific weather updates closer to your travel date to ensure you are well-prepared for your trip.

What to Wear in Egypt in April

In Egypt, particularly in April, female travelers should dress modestly, considering the conservative cultural norms. Here are some clothing recommendations:

As a Female

• Loose-Fitting Clothing: Choose loose-fitting tops and bottoms made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to stay comfortable in the warmer temperatures.
• Long Skirts or Pants: Opt for long skirts or pants to cover your legs, especially when visiting religious sites. Loose-fitting, ankle-length pants are a practical and modest choice.
• Maxi Dresses: Maxi dresses that cover your shoulders and extend to the ankles can be a stylish and appropriate option. They provide comfort in the heat while maintaining modesty.
• Long-Sleeve Tops or Blouses: Pack lightweight, long-sleeved tops or blouses to protect your arms from the sun and adhere to modest dressing norms.
• Scarf or Shawl: Keep a lightweight scarf or shawl in your bag to cover your shoulders when needed, especially in religious places.
• Closed-Toe Shoes: Comfortable, closed-toe shoes, such as sandals or flats, are suitable for walking and exploring. Ensure they are easy to slip on and off when entering religious sites.
• Wide-brimmed Hat: A wide-brimmed hat provides excellent sun protection and adds a stylish touch to your outfit.
• Sunscreen: Use a high-SPF sunscreen to protect your skin from the strong sun, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors.
• Light Jacket or Cardigan: Bring a light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings or air-conditioned indoor spaces.
• Swimwear with Cover-up: Bring modest swimwear and a cover-up to visit coastal areas or enjoy hotel pools.

In Egypt, particularly in April, the dress code for men tends to be more relaxed than women’s, but it’s still essential to be mindful of local customs and cultural norms. Here are some clothing recommendations for male travelers in Egypt during April:

• Lightweight Clothing: Choose lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen to stay cool in the warmer temperatures.
• Shorts or Lightweight Pants: Comfortable shorts or lightweight pants suit casual daytime wear. If you plan to visit religious sites, consider pants to adhere to modest dressing norms.
• Short-Sleeved Shirts: Short-sleeved shirts are appropriate for the warmer weather. Polo shirts or button-up shirts are versatile choices for various activities.
• Long-Sleeved Shirts: Bring a couple of long-sleeved shirts for added sun protection and to wear in the evenings when temperatures may cool down.
• Closed-Toe Shoes: Comfortable, closed-toe shoes, such as sneakers or loafers, are suitable for walking and exploring. Ensure they are easy to slip on and off when entering religious sites.
• Hat: A hat, like a baseball cap or a wide-brimmed hat, provides excellent sun protection for your face and neck.
• Sunscreen: Use a high SPF sunscreen to protect your skin from the strong sun, especially if you spend extended periods outdoors.
• Swimwear: Bring appropriate swimwear to visit coastal areas or enjoy hotel pools.
• Light Jacket or Sweater: A light jacket or sweater may be needed for cooler evenings, especially if you’re near the coast.
• Respectful Attire for Formal Settings: If you plan to visit upscale restaurants and hotels or attend formal events, consider packing a collared shirt and long pants.

Festivals and Events in April in Egypt

It’s crucial to note that Ramadan in 2024 is observed from March 10 to April 9, while in 2025, the dates fall between February 28 and March 29. Ramadan is a significant celebration in the Muslim world, during which the Egyptian Muslim population observes fasting from sunrise to sunset. Visiting Egypt during Ramadan offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Egyptian traditions and culture, but it requires some adjustments.

Participating in Ramadan can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to witness various cultural and religious practices. However, remember that this period involves changes in daily routines, and you may encounter some limitations, especially regarding dining options. Many restaurants remain closed during daylight hours, with activities resuming after the evening iftar meal.

To make the most of your visit during Ramadan, consider the following tips:

• Adjusted Mealtimes: Plan your daily activities around the fasting hours. Restaurants and cafes might be closed during the day, so try to have meals during non-fasting hours in the evening and at night.
• Participate in Iftar: Join locals for iftar, breaking the fast after sunset. This communal meal is a significant aspect of Ramadan, and participating in it can offer insights into the warmth and hospitality of Egyptian culture.
• Cultural Events: Explore local cultural events and festivities organized during Ramadan, such as lantern decorations and special night markets. This can provide a deeper understanding of the traditions associated with the holy month.

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• Egypt Tours
• Egypt Travel Guide
• When to Visit Egypt

Egypt in April: Go on a Desert Safari

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• ~ mins read

The land of the ancient Pharaohs, Egypt is home to a plethora of ancient wonders, rich history and culture. Explore the ruins and monuments of antiquity, take a camel safari in its vast desert landscapes, or enjoy a perfect holiday at one of many outrageously beautiful beach resorts, Egypt offers everything your heart desires. Being a predominantly desert country, Egypt’s weather is hot all year round. But if you visit Egypt in April, you will be able to avoid the blistering desert heat in the summer.

• Cathryn Wise

Egypt Weather in April

The average temperature of Egypt in April is between 15°C and 27°C, which is mild considering the blistering summer that runs from May till August. Cairo sees lovely warm weather in April, ranging between 15°C and 28°C. Meanwhile, Luxor, being one of the hottest places in the country, can see the mercury climb up to 35°C. The coastal city of Sharm El-Sheikh has a pleasant condition around this time, with the temperature fluctuating between 20°C and 30°C. The sea temperature is at around 23°C. Dahab is another popular beach destination in Egypt. In April, the temperature here can reach up to 27°C during the day. Sandstorms stirred up by Khamsin, a hot dry wind, is also fairly common in April.

For a seasonal overview, go through our guide on the best time to visit Egypt .

Weather in Egypt in April - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit egypt in april.

Apart from occasional sandstorms, April is a great month to travel to Egypt. Here are some of the reasons why:

• Sinai Liberation Day: The 25th of April in Egypt is celebrated as Sinai Liberation Day . It marks the day the land of Sinai was liberated from Israel and is celebrated across the country with festivities and gatherings. Tourist areas like Sharm El-Sheikh and Dahab have parties on the day and there is a festive atmosphere everywhere.
• Desert camping: In the winter the desert is too cold at night but in April the desert weather is just perfect for enjoying crazy adventures like overnight felucca trips or White Desert camping trips.
• Coptic Orthodox Easter: Orthodox Christians of Egypt celebrate Coptic Easter in April and it is followed by Sham Ennessim. On this day, all Egyptians flood parks and recreational spaces for picnics to celebrate spring and enjoy a public holiday.
• Fewer crowds: April falls in the shoulder season of Egypt. This is the period when not many people visit the country. So, if you tour Egypt in April , you will find the top attractions in the country are less crowded with tourists.

Where to go and what to do

Egypt’s average temperature starts to climb in April, so make your way to the hottest places like Luxor at the beginning of the month to try and catch the last glimpses of spring. This is where the Valley of the Kings is located. While in Luxor, instead of a conventional tour, you can take to the skies and enjoy the place from a hot air balloon. To escape the Luxor heat, you can also take a Nile River cruise .

Cairo enjoys comfortable weather in April. From here, you will have access to Egypt’s most popular attractions like the Pyramids and the Sphinx. You can also explore the many museums in the city.

Mount Sinai is a special place to visit in Egypt, as Sinai Liberation Day is celebrated with great pomp and show at the end of the month. Here, you will also get to view St Catherine’s Monastery, located at the foot of the mountain, and see the world’s oldest continually operated library and a massive collection of biblical icons.

The resort cities of Hurghada, Dahab, and Sharm El-Sheikh are some of the best places to be if you are looking for a beach holiday in Egypt .

If you are up for a real adventure, make your way to Wadi El Gemal National Park in the southeast of Egypt, on the Red Sea Coast. This fascinating national park is home to thousands of wild camels that congregate in dramatic canyons and are next to crystal blue ocean water. It is an odd pairing but you will find scenes that few travelers are privy to.

Look at our suggested itineraries to figure out how many days to spend in Egypt to see everything you want.

April is an excellent time to visit Egypt if you want to enjoy the country’s popular attractions without many tourist crowds around. You will get to experience the best of everything in Egypt in April, before the sweltering summer heat sets in the desert country. What is more, you will also be able to get the shoulder season deals on your travel and accommodation. Speak to our travel experts to plan a customized tour of Egypt .

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25 Top Egypt Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

Egypt is renowned worldwide as a land brimming with ancient history and culture. From the Great Pyramids of Giza to the bustling city of Cairo, any trip to Egypt is sure to be packed with excitement. Though this region has warm to mild temperatures year round, its religious roots require more conservative dress. This can make things a bit tricky when it comes to knowing what to pack!

To help you out, we’ve put together this complete packing list with  what to wear in Egypt , what NOT to pack, and answers to all your top Egypt frequently asked questions.

What to Pack for Egypt – 25 Essentials

1. egypt power adapter.

If you’re coming from North America or countries outside of the Middle East, you will need a power adapter to plug in your electronics while in Egypt. This universal power adapter will have you covered in Egypt as well as in 100+ popular countries throughout the world. With a built-in fuse protector, you won’t risk your phone or camera on shotty outlets. Plus, it comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee!

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Pashmina Shawl

A pashmina shawl is an invaluable item to bring with you on your trip to Egypt. Whether you’re entering a holy site or mosque and need to cover your head or shoulders or just want to wear it as a wrap on a chilly evening, you’ll be glad you packed one! I also use it as a seat cover, packing cushion, picnic blanket, etc.

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN is beneficial for many reasons when traveling abroad. Use it to prevent hackers from stealing your sensitive information whenever you’re connected to WiFi in public places (in hotels, restaurants, coffee shops, airports, etc.) We learned this the hard way when we got hacked at our Airbnb in Paris. A quality VPN will also grant you access to websites from home that may be blocked or censored by the host country, and even be able to get around popular new sites’ paywalls that restrict monthly article views.

View NordVPN.com Options ➜

4. Neck Wallet

A neck wallet is a total game-changer in any destination that’s particularly touristy or crowded. Between strolling through the markets in Cairo and visiting the iconic pyramids, you’ll likely find yourself surrounded by crowds and tourist traps. Wear a neck wallet tucked beneath your shirt to secure your passport, wallet, credit cards, and smartphone against pickpocketing and petty theft.

5. Water Bottle with Built-in Filter

Though the tap water in Egypt is not safe to drink, you won’t want to keep shelling out money for bottled water. Plus, single-use plastics are awful for the environment. Instead, use this reusable Grayl water bottle that comes with a built-in filter so you can ensure the water you’re drinking is safe. This one is a little pricey, but it’s worth it to us for top-quality filtration that removes harmful bacteria, pathogens, viruses, chlorine, sediment, dirt, microplastics, and more.

6. Travel Insurance for Egypt

There is almost nothing more important for your Egypt trip than reliable travel insurance. The travel can be unpredictable and you’ll need to make sure you’re covered in case of a medical emergency, lost luggage, COVID-19 evacuations, flight cancellations etc. Faye is always our go-to for finding the best travel insurance – we never take a trip without them! They create customized plans that adapt for each unique trip and traveler, even offering affordable add-ons like ‘cancel for any reason.’

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

7. Packing Cubes

Make your life easier by using packing cubes for your trip to Egypt. These travel organizers will help you avoid overpacking and stay in order so you won’t have to dig through your luggage searching for your last pair of clean socks. Simply label each cube (tops, bottoms, shoes, essentials, etc.), and you’ll love that this set includes extra cases for shoes and laundry!

8. Jet Lag Relief

If you’re visiting from North America, Egypt is a long way from home! Avoid the unpleasant symptoms of jet lag by taking these homeopathic jet lag relief pills. They work as both a prevention and a cure and will keep you on your feet during the first day of your trip. We like that they’re formulated with chamomile and other botanicals rather than the caffeine and stimulants of similar products.

9. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

We never travel without these TSA-approved luggage locks. You can usually trust your checked luggage to arrive intact, but we learned first-hand that things can be stolen from your suitcase when it’s not in your possession. Keep these locks handy for bags, backpacks, lockers, or to leave things in the hotel as the cleaning staff comes through.

10. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

You don’t want to be stuck in Egypt without access to your smartphone since you’ll be relying on it for communication, navigation, or photos. We’ve dealt with a dead battery at inconvenient times (when stranded far from the hotel, unable to call for a ride or help). Now we travel smarter by tossing this lipstick-sized portable charger in our daypack. You can quickly charge up your devices while you’re out and about.

11. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

If your accommodations don’t provide a towel, or if the towel provided is unclean, you’ll be glad you packed your own lightweight, compact, microfiber travel towel. This one is great because it dries 10x quicker than cotton and isn’t bulky and heavy like a regular towel.

12. Mosquito-Repelling Wristbands

Mosquitos are relentless and you’ll find them extra ravenous here in the summertime. Egypt does not generally have cases of malaria, but they do face other mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue, West Nile virus, etc., so play it safe with mosquito-repellent wristbands. These are deet-free, which means they’re safe for kids and you’ll be protected without choking on harsh chemicals all day.

13. Cooling Towels

Rainfall is almost non-existent in Egypt, and the high temperature in the Sahara Desert can reach 120°F/49°C. Beat the heat with a set of cooling towels. These magical babies drop to 20-30 degrees colder than the outside temperature, staying cold for up to an hour! Simply add water and enjoy the chilly, refreshing sensation wrapped around your neck or head (when the effect diminishes, just add more water). We never travel to warm destinations without these and can’t recommend them enough.

14. Long Skirt

It’s important to be respectful of cultural norms during your time in Egypt. That means women should be sure to cover their knees, shoulders, and everything in between! The weather in Egypt can get HOT, so a long flowy maxi skirt is the way to go as far as blending in and keeping cool.

15. Daypack

As you’re spending the day strolling through the streets of Cairo or cruising down the ancient waters of the Nile, you’ll definitely need a daypack to carry everything you need with you. This pack is durable and large enough to hold your camera, jacket, snacks, sunscreen, and anything else you might need for exploring. Plus, it’s super lightweight and folds into its own pocket when not in use.

16. Discounted Tickets to Egyptian Attractions

Get Your Guide is our preferred booking service for local tours that are reputable and authentic. Since you can read reviews and cancel within 24-hours of your tour, you won’t get caught in a lackluster experience or be limited to an inflexible itinerary.

While in Egypt, you absolutely must discover popular antiquities like the Giza Pyramids and Sphinx of Cairo , and the Luxor Valley of the Kings . A river cruise down the Nile is also a fan favorite, with options for dinner cruises or 3-day journeys .

Outdoor fanatics will love snorkeling through the Blue Hole National Park or stargazing in the Hurghada Desert . And if you have the time, we recommend day trips to historical Alexandria , tropical Marsa Alam , or the magnificent Abu Simbel Temple (built in 13th century BC).

See all Egypt attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜

17. Modest Swimsuit

There are tons of stunning beaches to hit in Egypt (Naama Bay, El Gouna, Dahab Lagoon, etc.), but keep in mind that 90% of the population is Sunni Muslim. The dress code is considered much more conservative than Western attire, so a modest swimsuit is best. Dressing appropriately will make your hosts and the new people you meet feel more comfortable and at ease with you, which will lead to a better time for all involved!

18. Activated Charcoal (Food Poisoning Remedy)

It’s important to be extra cautious of food and drink in Egypt, as cleanliness standards might not be up to what you’re used to at home. Travelers commonly get sick because the bacteria is completely different than that at home. So if you feel like you might have eaten something that doesn’t agree with you, take these activated charcoal tablets to quickly expel the toxins in your system to keep you from getting sick.

19. Hanging Toiletry Bag

Egyptian bathrooms can vary from resorts to Airbnbs to rustic sites. But one commonality is the general lack of countertop space. Plan ahead for limited storage with this hanging toiletries bag. It has 4 giant pockets that hold more products than you would imagine, neatly folded up into a compact case. We haven’t had any luggage leaks or spills since using these, and you can hang it on any door, hook, pole, branch, etc.

20. TSA-Approved Toiletries Bottles

Don’t forget that TSA will require bottles under the 3.4-ounce at the security checkpoint. Any liquids, gels, creams, and pastes need to be in travel-sized bottles, or you will be asked to throw them out. We favor these silicon tubes since they have a 3-layer leakproof design and are super easy to fill up.

21. Electrolytes

When you’re spending long days adventuring in Egypt’s dry desert heat, it’s important to keep hydrated! Add some of these electrolytes to your drinking water to help your body absorb the vitamins and nutrients you need. Electrolytes will also come in handy to soothe a hangover or to help get over food poisoning, boosting your hydration significantly faster than water alone would.

22. Deodorant Wipes

Instead of feeling sticky and icky while discovering the best of Egypt, use these deodorant wipes to keep smelling your best. I find them incredibly refreshing since they use pre/probiotics to restore the skin’s natural barrier and reduce odors. They’re pocket-sized wipes in individual packets, so you can throw a few in your daypack and wipe down freely to get rid of any funk. You’ll feel a lot better and your travel partners will thank you!

23. Maxi Dress

The land of ancient history and majestic pharaohs is also one of the best hot-spots for nightlife! You’ll be enjoying dinner cruises, the opera house, the sound & light show at the Giza Pyramids, discotheque clubs, and more – so bring at least one gorgeous evening dress for nights on the town. This one is long and modest but still fitted for a flattering silhouette. It’s thin enough material that you won’t overheat, and the built-in pockets are just the cherry on top!

24. Sturdy Sandals

Skip the blister-inducing and sweaty shoes that will only slow you down. Instead, opt for breathable sandals that suit the arid climate of Egypt. These are very cute and lightweight yet still offer plenty of support with a shock-absorbing sole. I also like that they’re quick-drying if you get any water on them, and they have enough traction for slippery or muddy areas.

25. Packable “Just in Case” Bag

We recommend avoiding the tourist trap of crappily made souvenirs (typically sold near the pyramids or in tourist bazaars). But! So long as you stick to reputable workshops and retailers that sell authentic goods, there are SO many gorgeous things you will want to take home (for yourself or as gifts for loved ones).

Treat yourself to the likes of Egyptian perfume, Papyrus, textiles, handmade jewelry, spices, inlay work, and precious stones . This “just in case” bag counts as your personal item for the flight home, making it easy to do a little shopping without paying double fees on your checked luggage.

Other Egypt Packing List Items

• Travel Neck Pillow
• Motion Sickness Relief
• Protein Bars
• Swimsuit Cover Up
• Hiking Shoes
• Compression Flight Socks
• Steripod Toothbrush Cover
• Makeup Remover Wipes
• Hanging Toiletry Case
• TSA Approved Travel Size Bottles
• Travel Sheet
• Contact Solution
• Noise Cancelling Headphones
• Passport Photos
• Over the Counter Medications
• Hard Copies of Vital Documents
• ATM or Debit Card without International Fees

What to Wear in Egypt

Expect daytime temperatures in Egypt to be mild to hot throughout the year, while cooling off a bit at night. Keep in mind that Egypt is a Muslim country, which means more conservative dress than you’re used to will be required. Despite the heat, avoid shorts and tight or revealing clothing, and instead opt for loose, flowing pants, skirts, and shirts everywhere you go.

Women in Egypt’s big cities, like Cairo and Alexandria will often opt for more modern, westernized dress, while still keeping with conservative customs of covering their shoulders, chest, and knees. At more touristy resorts and beaches, you’re free to wear shorts and bathing suits, though you still might be a bit uncomfortable on the streets with men catcalling and yelling at you. Throughout the country women are expected to dress more conservatively, so try your best to respect the culture both to blend in and for your own safety. What Should MEN Wear to Egypt? – (Click to expand) Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Packing for the Seasons in Egypt

Egypt has an arid desert climate, meaning winters are mild to cool but rarely cold, and summers are intensely hot. Regardless of the heat, locals and tourists alike will be expected to cover up to keep in line with the region’s cultural customs. Opt for loose-fitting, flowing, breathable clothing that will keep you cool but will also help you blend in.

WINTER – December, January, February

SPRING – March, April, May

Spring in Egypt can be unpredictable, but expect temperatures to rise starting in March. Again, be prepared for warmer or hotter temperatures during the day and cooler temperatures at night. Sandstorms can also be prevalent during this time, but they mostly occur outside of major cities. Pack lightweight long and short-sleeved shirts and layers to adjust to changing temperatures.

SUMMER – June, July, August

FALL – September, October, November

Fall in Egypt is much more mild, with pleasant temperatures averaging around 85°F (29°C). Due to the improved weather, fall is one of the most popular tourist seasons in Egypt. Expect higher prices and bigger crowds at major tourist attractions during this time. You might also experience some rain in the fall, so pack your umbrella!

Nile River Cruise – Nile river cruise attire is a bit more relaxed than many of your other Egyptian destinations, as you’ll likely be surrounded by other tourists in western dress. Bare shoulders, shorts, and swimsuits are fine, but as a general rule, try to remain respectful of the crew and local Egyptians by proceeding with caution when it comes to overly revealing clothing.

Exploring the Cities – In the bigger cities like Cairo and Alexandria, many locals tend to opt for western style clothing like skinny jeans and t-shirts, as long as they are covered from the shoulders down to their knees. As long as you keep with this general rule and don’t wear overly tight or revealing clothing, you should be absolutely fine with western style clothing in the big cities.

Beach Resorts – Beach resorts in Egypt will also be a bit more relaxed when it comes to what to wear. Feel free to wear shorts and bathing suits as you’ll likely be surrounded by majority tourists. That said, consider opting for a more conservative swimsuit like this one to ward off unwanted attention and to show respect for the local culture.

Mosques and Holy Sites – It’s essential to dress appropriately and conservatively when entering mosques and holy sites in Egypt. That means women may be required to cover their head with a scarf or shawl, and both men and women will need to make sure they’re covered from their shoulders down to below their knees.

What NOT to bring to Egypt

1. don’t pack white clothing.

Egypt can get windy and dusty, so leave your white and light colored clothing at home! You won’t want to walk around in a dirty, dusty, brown outfit, so opt for darker colors instead.

2. DON’T BRING a winter coat

Egypt enjoys warm to mild temperatures year round, and even in the dead of winter it likely won’t get cold enough to warrant a winter coat. Instead, bring clothes that will work for layering so you can easily adapt to the weather.

3. DON’T TAKE full-size liquids

The last thing you need is to have your expensive jewelry or electronics lost, stolen, or broken during your trip to Egypt. Save yourself some stress (and maybe even some money) by leaving your valuables at home and only bringing what you absolutely need.

4. DON’T PACK too much stuff

Egypt is a country with amazing things to do and see from north to south. Save yourself the hassle of lugging around excessively heavy, overstuffed baggage by using  packing cubes  to stay organized and avoid overpacking.

5. DON’T BRING revealing clothes

Egypt’s culture requires visitors to dress more conservatively than they may be used to. This means avoiding wearing tight or revealing clothing, and instead opting for loose fitting clothes with more coverage.

6. DON’T TAKE full-sized liquids

Don’t risk having your expensive liquid toiletries dumped out by security at the airport or having them leak and spill all over your luggage during the journey. Instead, pack your liquids in these  TSA approved travel-sized bottles  and bring only what you need.

Travel FAQs and Tips for Egypt

1. is it safe to drink the water in egypt.

No, it is not safe to drink tap water in Egypt. Instead, opt for bottled water or fill up your reusable bottle with filtered water which you can find at many hotels and higher-end restaurants and cafes. Avoid eating fresh fruit and vegetables without a peel, and be wary of drinking beverages that come with ice, as the ice was likely made with tap water.

2. Should I take public transportation in Egypt?

No, it’s not advisable to take public transportation in Egypt. Trains are prone to crashing and often result in casualties. Busses are overcrowded, slow, and get caught in the crazy traffic and congestion of Egypt’s larger cities. Using any public transportation option will be chaotic and difficult to use unless you have a good knowledge of Arabic. We recommend taking taxis or even Uber instead.

3. Is it safe to travel to Egypt?

It is currently safe to travel to the more touristy parts of Egypt, including Cairo and the Great Pyramids. That said, it’s always important to remain cautious and keep your wits about you at all times, keeping wary of pickpocketing and petty theft. The majority of the Sinai Peninsula with some exceptions is considered to be dangerous for tourists, and visitors should proceed with extreme caution.

4. Do you need vaccines to visit Egypt?

As long as you are up to date with the standard vaccinations, no additional vaccines are required to visit Egypt. That said, it’s always prudent to check with your healthcare professional and make sure you’re all set before you go.

5. Do I need a visa to visit Egypt?

If you’re visiting from the US, you do need to get a visa to enter Egypt. You can obtain a visa by paying $25 USD upon your arrival at the airport. If you’re visiting from Europe or other nations, you will also need to obtain a visa for entry to Egypt, though you’ll need to check online for the details specific to your country of residence.

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Africa , EGYPT

Complete packing list for egypt.

Located at the top of the African continent, but feeling more culturally similar to its neighbours in the near Middle East across the Red Sea, Egypt is a country with filled with fascinating geographies, histories, people and cultures… especially when it comes to travelling!

I spent 3 weeks in Egypt as a solo female adventurer and experienced very little hassle, in fact, I loved this country with its wonderful ancient treasures, world-class museums and incredible river cruises.

However I know that doesn’t ring true for all travellers to this country and that many people do find they get pestered in Egypt.

What I don’t want this to do however, is put you off going there.

The key to enjoying Egypt, rather than just surviving it, is probably to be prepared, be wise and to do some serious research before you go… of all which my blog can help you out with, so don’t forget to hunt around for all the Egypt content I’ve written previously!

And another good place to start is with this packing list, so you know exactly what to pack and wear during your time in Egypt for the least stressful and most rewarding experience possible.

Feeling comfortable will definitely help you to have a better and more relaxed time here, so it’s certainly a worthy bit of prep!

And on that note, it’s time to jump in…

Related Posts

• My 27 Top Tips for Travel in Egypt
• 10 Unmissable Things to Do in Aswan, Egypt
• The Perfect Egypt Itinerary

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What to wear as a female traveller in egypt.

The general rule for female travellers when it comes to what to wear in Egypt is long pants and tops that don’t reveal your upper arms or chest, especially if you’re travelling alone.

At least this is true when travelling the major cities and Nile area of the country – the coast is slightly different and more relaxed in terms of dress code.

While no way near as conservative as other countries I’ve visited such as Sudan, Egypt is not as liberal as parts of Lebanon or Turkey either, so do beware that in mind.

Lying somewhere in the middle, female travellers in Egypt do not have to cover their heads, but I’d certainly advise only packing clothes that extend below the knee and that cover the shoulders or cleavage.

Having your arms exposed is ok (as long as your shoulders and chest are covered), but you may feel more comfortable wearing longer-sleeved garments that do cover your lower arms too.

Sarongs or thin scarves are a great option when travelling in Egypt as they are so versatile, compact and light. Sarongs or scarves can easily be draped over your head or shoulders too for extra coverage.

Evening wear certainly isn’t a must here – as a largely alcohol-free country (although it’s not illegal, few people in Egypt drink it and it’s very expensive), you’re unlikely to be going out or needing much specific evening attire, so that’s one thing you don’t have to worry about!

Ditto heavy make-up, which is not common here and will be a nightmare in the heat!

In terms of shoes, when it comes to what to wear in Egypt, I really do think you can limit yourself to 3 pairs – 1x comfy trainers / runners that can be used for any long sightseeing trips or travel days, 1 pair of good support sandals like Birkenstocks and perhaps some lowkey evening flats or pumps.

In my opinion, dress sandals, or anything with a heel, are definitely not required when travelling in this country.

For more specific ideas about exactly what to wear in Egypt, check out these sections below.

You can also download your own copy of my broader Middle East packing list (which also covers North Africa) by entering your details in the box below…

What to Wear when Sightseeing in Egypt?

When it comes to sightseeing in Egypt, especially around any of the temples, you’ll want to make sure you’re fairly covered up – not only for cultural reasons, but also to protect yourself from the sun as, needless to say, the UV rays in Egypt can be fierce!

A long skirt or thin, ankle-length trousers will be perfect for sightseeing in this country as they’ll allow you to stay fairly cool.

They also provide some warmth when you go into any temples or pyramids, which can actually be pretty cold inside.

I’d advise a thin, long-sleeved bamboo or cotton top for the top half, so that you can ensure your chest and upper arms are covered.

Something loose and comfortable will help you stay comfortable and cool, because you don’t want to be fiddling around constantly with clothing in the heat when you’re trying to sightsee.

Ladies, I’d also take a thin scarf or sarong with you when sightseeing, so that this can be placed over your head if you’re visiting any religious sights.

Sunglasses, a good sunhat and some sunscreen are also top items and I highly recommend bringing a good daypack you can put them all in and carry easily throughout your sightseeing time in Egypt.

This Marmot Kompressor is ideal for the job as it packs down to nothing and is light, waterproof and comfortable.

And finally, you’ll also want to ensure you have some water with you for sightseeing days in Egypt and that you drink a lot to stay hydrated.

Rather than constantly buying plastic water bottles, I highly recommend you take a filter water bottle with you to Egypt, which will allow you to drink the tap water here (or anywhere in the world) safely.

An amazing piece of technology, I highly recommend Water-to-go bottles for the job.

And if you are looking for top sightseeing trips in Egypt, then check out these fantastic options .

What to Wear at the Coast in Egypt?

If you’re travelling to either Dahab, Sharm el Sheikh or Hurghada, you’ll find that dress codes are more relaxed than in other Egyptian destinations.

This means that coastal spots in this country are more chilled places to finish your trip and spend a few days relaxing.

With good temperatures and sandy beaches, you’ll definitely want to bring your swimwear and a towel to enjoy these spots.

Sunglasses, sun hats, sunscreen and sarongs are also a good idea.

Don’t forget a good book and your headphones too, and you may also want to bring a snorkel and mask set if you own one because, at the Red Sea, you’re on the edge of some of the best diving and snorkelling spots in the world, so don’t miss out!

And now I want to bring you a complete packing list for Egypt – a handy item-by-item guide so that you’re fully prepared and packed for your trip here.

Just enter your email address below and I'll send it to you for FREE!

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Clothes to Pack for Egypt

1 Thin Windproof Jacket

Egypt has a hot, dry climate, but at night it can get chilly if you’re out in the desert.

As such, I recommend taking a thin windproof jacket with you to this country – something light, compact but practical would be ideal and this North Face Venture 2 is perfect.

3 Thin Sweaters or Cotton Long-Sleeved Tops

Great for layering as, in certain parts of the country, you might not feel comfortable walking around with bare arms, which means some thin, light tops are crucial.

I always love a natural fibre long sleeve option to stop me sweating as much!

2 Cardigans / Denim Shirts

Helpful in the evening and /or if you want something a bit smarter during the day.

I’m loving the denim shirt look right now!

7 Singlets / T-Shirts

Choose a range of colours and styles that match the trousers / shorts you’ve selected.

I recommend loose ones that will keep you cool and aren’t too revealing.

T-shirts are best as they cover shoulders (good for avoiding sunburn), or go for my ventilation tactic, which is a singlet with a thin scarf or sarong draped around the shoulders.

7 is a good number of tops as it means you have enough to survive without doing laundry for a week!

2 Jeans / Trousers

Great for going out in the evening or wandering around cities like Luxor and Cairo, you’re likely to feel very uncomfortable in anything short or revealing in Egypt (outside of the coastal regions), so long-legged pants are a must.

Just make sure they are thin and light!

2 Pair Leggings

One of my travel essentials full stop (not just in Egypt!), leggings are especially ideal when you’re exploring the temples and cities, because they are thin and breathable… if you get the right pair.

In fact, I strongly recommend bamboo fibre ones because they are breathable, hypoallergenic, soft, thin and compact down really easily.

In Egypt especially, leggings are good under a casual dress or tunic when you need to dress modestly and are comfy to wear on any long bus or train rides you might have to make.

1 Pair Shorts

Shorts are really only worn in Egypt by travellers at the coast, which is why I’ve suggested just 1 pair.

If you’re keen on a diving or snorkelling adventure, the Red Sea has some amazing opps and dress codes are certainly more relaxed here.

1 Summer Dress

Another great item for Egypt beach times and / or to pair over leggings in the cities.

Those who aren’t a fan of dresses, may wish to double up on the shorts here.

You can’t take enough sarongs travelling in my opinion. As they are so light, I recommend 2 as a minimum!

Perfect for using as a beach towel, a headscarf, a shoulder wrap, a bathrobe, a sheet, a laundry bag … the list goes on!

Check out my post about the 20 reasons why you should always take a sarong travelling for more ideas.

These ones from One World Sarongs have some beautiful designs.

Thin Scarves

Ideal if you’re wanting to visit any mosques and need to cover your head.

Also good to cover shoulders – see above in the T-Shirt / Singlet section for more info.

Small and compact, 8 pairs is a good number to save the hand washing duties!

Bras & Sports Bra

Make them comfortable ones in this heat!

Bikini / Swimwear

Well you need something to enjoy Egypt’s fabulous coast with that’s for sure.

I always love Rip Curl’s offering.

Most days you’ll probably be wearing sandals in Egypt, but this is for those exceptional days when you’ll wear trainers – like when travelling in planes, buses or trains.

You can always double up on your daywear here to save room if needs be!

Sun Hat & Sunglasses

Whether you want to bring a cap or a floppy, or a large designer number, the choice is yours.

Just make sure you bring a sun hat of some description because walking all day in cities or around temples in Egypt’s heat can be tough!

I love this one from Hello Sunshine .

Shoes to Pack

1 Pair Trainers / Runners

Versatile, comfortable and essential if you want to see all the sights in this epic country.

I highly recommend New Balance who create stylish city runners that you can still wear in the evening too.

1 Pair Flip Flops / Sandals

Personally, I love my Birkenstocks , which I basically lived in during my time throughout the Middle East and North Africa.

The support they offer means you can sightsee to your heart’s content and never get sore soles!

1 Pair Evening Flats

A great addition to any Egypt packing list if you want to go out for dinner at least a few times during your trip.

Toiletries to Pack

Thin Toiletries Bag

To hook or not to hook, that is the question!

Either way, just make sure it is light and thin.

This one is a great and affordable option.

Shampoo & Conditioner Bars

I always go for shampoo and conditioner bars when I travel to save the plastic and keep the space down!

Although they are a bit pricey, they last for ages.

Say goodbye to mid-travel spillages and bulky bottles people, this is the future!

I always pack a natural crystal deodorant when I travel as they last forever and are free from many nasty chemicals.

Antibacterial Soap

Keep your soap in a ziplock bag to prevent soap slime leaking on to everything you own!

Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Floss

Facial Wash, Toner, Serum, Moisturiser

Body Moisturiser

Cotton Buds / Pads

Hair Bands & Hair Brush

Glasses / Contact Lenses if you wear them

Razor & Spare Blades

Nail Scissors, Nail File & Tweezers

Medical / First Aid Bits to Pack

Natural Sunscreen

Choose a 30 SPF or higher for those helluva strong rays in Egypt and go natural if you can to keep the chemicals out of your skin.

This doubles as a great moisturiser, soother and aftersun.

SPF Lip Salve

Very important for those UV conditions in Egypt.

Natural Bug Repellent

See my post about how to make your own DEET-Free insect spray or else there are plenty of ready-made products on the market like this great one .

An ideal remedy for headaches, sore muscles and insect bites, tiger balm is a super versatile, travel essential for me!

Tea-Tree Essential Oil

A powerful antiseptic, anti-mould and anti-fungal treatment, tea-tree oil is also great to throw in with your washing, or you can use a few drops to freshen up smelly bags / laundry etc!

Get an organic tea-tree oil if you can.

Paracetamol, Antiseptic Cream, Antihistamines & Band Aids

The only medicine you need to take in my opinion!

There’s so many pharmacies in this country you’ll be able to get almost anything you need there anyway!

Menstrual Cup

The best way to deal with your time of the month when travelling ladies.

Check out the best prices for them here .

Electrical Items to Pack

Smartphone & Headphones

Taking your smartphone to stay in touch with those at home, check maps, book activities and upload some pics while you’re in Egypt is a great idea.

I’d also download some audiobooks and music onto your phone before you leave home – a good shout for travel days.

I recommend Amazon Audible and Spotify Premium for these purposes and wouldn’t travel anywhere without either these days.

Portable Charger

Portable chargers are great when travelling without a solidly reliable charging source, like in Egypt, where power cuts can be a regular occurrence!

I recommend the Anker PowerCore which allows me to charge both my phone and my camera – BOOM!

Camera, Lens, Spare Battery & Charger

I love my Sony A600 mirrorless camera , which I’ve used across North Africa and beyond.

Light, compact and sturdy, it’s perfect for travelling.

I’d also recommend a GoPro for Egypt if you want to capture some of that Red Sea underwater action.

Memory Cards

Take a large memory card if possible – like this 64GB one .

Might not be a bad idea to double up in case you lose it or fill it up.

High-speed memory cards are also a good idea for snappier processing times.

How are you going to charge your devices without an adapter?!

Egypt has the same type of plugs as continental Europe, so get a cheap adapter here .

Otherwise, you can splash out on a worldwide adapter – better value if you’re travelling elsewhere after North Africa or anytime in the future.

Headlamp & Spare Batteries

Never travel in Africa without a headlamp and try to choose a product that uses commonly found batteries and has a red night light function.

I love my Black Diamond Storm , which has served me well during my time across Africa.. and the globe!

A VPN service is a must for me when I travel, especially in high-risk countries.

I love NORD VPN who offer a huge number of global servers for a quick and seamless connection.

Documents to Remember

Passport & Photocopies

Definitely take a colour copy of your passport with you to Egypt and keep it with you at all times.

There are multiple checkpoints across the country and it’s necessary to have at least a copy of your passport with you if you get stopped.

Flight Tickets & Visa Documentation

Many nationalities can get free tourist visas for Egypt on arrival – hoorah!

Do check with your embassy before travelling however.

Immunisation Documentation

Always good to have with you wherever you travel.

Travel Insurance

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

Credit Cards and Debit Cards

ATMs in Egypt are plentiful and accept both Mastercard and Visa.

They tend to dish out both USD and Egyptian Pounds (LE).

When it comes to using ATMs, or paying for things in Egypt generally, you want to ensure you’re not being charged overseas transaction fees or getting poor exchange rates, which is why I always take my Wise Card away with me wherever I travel.

The easy way to spend abroad with real exchange rates, no markups and no sneaky transaction fees, you can use your Wise card just like a debit card in Egypt… and it links easily with Google and Apple pay – sold!

Get yours here .

Cash in Small, Thin Purse

Bring US Dollars with you – they are most easily exchanged in Egypt.

And Don’t Forget…

Large Backpack

This whole packing list should fit into a 40l backpack – I never travel with anything bigger and love this great example from Berghaus .

Travel Towel

I recommend Latrek travel towels, because they are cheap, compact, soft and don’t smell.

Love, love, love mine!

Read my review here .

Good for sightseeing and beach days, this one from PacSafe is perfect.

Combination Padlock

Very useful for locking up bags and valuables when staying in hostels, these don’t have to be expensive, just reliable!

Eye Mask & Earplugs

Key for sleeping on overnight train journeys and in hotels in Egypt.

This eye mask from Alaska Bear is super comfy and a great travel treat.

Filter Water Bottle

Amazing pieces of tech, filter water bottles allow you to drink tap water anywhere in the world safely.

My go-to brand are Water-to-go bottles , which are inexpensive, but very reliable and will allow you to drink Egypt’s non-potable tap water without any problems.

These great bottles also help prevent more unnecessary plastic waste from polluting our planet – double win!

Travel Handwash

Great for doing emergency washing such as underwear in a sink, travel handwash is always a must when I adventure anywhere.

SAVE IT TO PINTEREST!

So that’s it, my complete Egypt packing list.

Have you been to this gem of a country?

What else did you pack that I might have missed?

Please let me know in the comments box below…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

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CBS Pittsburgh

Taking a trip back to ancient Egypt at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History

Posted: April 3, 2024 | Last updated: April 3, 2024

The Carnegie Museum of Natural History is giving us a look into the lives of those in ancient Egypt. Boaz got a special look at their work today.

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Solar eclipse predicted for April 8th across Europe and North Amercia

The Secretary of the Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Sciences (AUASS) , and former President of the National Research Institute of Astronomy and Geophysics (NRIAG), Gad al-Qady, announced that according to astronomical calculations, a total solar eclipse will occur on April 8, 2024.

This rare astronomical phenomenon will not be observed in Egypt or in any Arab country, he explained.

Instead, this eclipse will be seen partially in western Europe, the Atlantic Ocean, North America and northern South America, and the Pacific Ocean, while it will be a total eclipse in the US, Canada and Mexico.

He assured that the eclipse is harmless, and will not last more than four minutes.

Qady continued: “The partial eclipse begins at exactly 5:40 pm Cairo local time, and the peak of the total eclipse is at exactly at 8:17 pm. The partial eclipse ends at 10:52 pm, recording a time period of approximately five hours and ten minutes, while the total eclipse lasts approximately four minutes.”

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Eclipse seasons: Why the lunar eclipse on March 25 occurs 2 weeks before the total solar eclipse on April 8

How and why the full 'Worm Moon' aligns for March 25's lunar eclipse and April 8's total solar eclipse.

'Eclipse seasons' explained

Eclipse seasons in 2024, how the moon's orbital nodes work, what causes partial and penumbral eclipses.

On Monday, March 25, the full "Worm Moon" will cause a penumbral lunar eclipse for the night side of Earth, including North and South America, Europe, East Asia, Australia and New Zealand.

The third full moon of 2024 and the first of spring in the northern hemisphere, the "Worm Moon" — also known as the "Crow Moon" and the "Lenten Moon" — will move through the Earth 's outer shadow in space.

As well as being an interesting astronomical event, it will set up a total solar eclipse exactly two weeks later that will be seen across North America.

We're entering 2024's first (and best) "eclipse season," during which there will be two eclipses — one of the moon by the Earth and one of the sun by the moon.

• A lunar eclipse occurs during a full moon — when the Earth is between the sun and moon, blocking sunlight from reaching the lunar surface. 
• A solar eclipse occurs during a new moon — when the moon is between the Earth and the sun. 

Every 173 days, for between 31 and 37 days, the moon intersects (or almost intersects) the ecliptic—the apparent path of the sun through our daytime sky. The ecliptic is also the plane of Earth's orbit of the sun. What results is a short season during which two — and occasionally three — solar and lunar eclipses can occur.

In 2024, there will be two eclipse seasons each featuring two solar eclipses and two lunar eclipses:  

Eclipse season 1  

• March 25 : a penumbral lunar eclipse of the "Worm Moon" (North and South America, Europe, East Asia, Australia and New Zealand). 
• April 8 : a total solar eclipse (parts of Mexico, the U.S. and Canada). 

Eclipse season 2  

• September 18 : a partial lunar eclipse of the "Harvest Moon" (Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Pacific, Atlantic, Indian Ocean, Arctic, Antarctica.) 
• October 2 : an annular solar eclipse (Easter Island, Rapa Nui, Chile and Argentina). 

Although there is no third eclipse in 2024's second eclipse season, there so nearly is. According to timeanddate, an "almost lunar eclipse" will (won't!) occur on October 17 when the full "Hunter's Moon" just misses moving through Earth's shadow. It's a meaningless fact, visually, but it helps demonstrate how eclipse seasons work. It will miss because the moon will have been at its ascending node the day before, according to Astropixels . 

The moon's orbital nodes are why there isn't a solar or lunar eclipse every month. 

The moon's orbit of Earth is tilted by 5 degrees with respect to the ecliptic. That guarantees that there usually isn't a solar or lunar eclipse in any given month, but it also ensures that they must happen occasionally.

For one to occur, the moon must reach its new or full phase while it crosses the ecliptic. These two places are called the ascending node and the descending node. 

The moon reaches those two nodes at different times every month. It usually does so when it's not either new or full, so it isn't in a position to eclipse or be eclipsed. Only during an eclipse season does the moon arrive at, or very close to, these nodes at the perfect time to cause an eclipse. The result is a short season during which two (and sometimes three) solar and lunar eclipses can occur, one after another, two weeks apart. 

Slight eclipses — a partial solar or lunar eclipse and a penumbral lunar eclipse — occur during eclipse season when the moon reaches a node just a few hours or a day too early or late. On these occasions, it misses its target, either eclipsing only part of the sun or moving through Earth's outer shadow. 

Either the new moon is slightly above or below the sun, and the full moon is above or below Earth's shadow. Only when it reaches a node at precisely the right time does it cause a total solar eclipse or a total lunar eclipse.

That's what makes Monday, April 8, such a special day for North America — and why you should, if possible, travel into the path of totality. Only then will you see, with your own naked eyes, the sun's majestic, spiky white corona revealed in a dark sky. 

Note: Only look at the partial phases of any solar eclipse with proper eye protection, which means solar eclipse glasses. Lunar eclipses are completely safe at all times.

Related: How to observe the sun safely (and what to look for)

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Jamie is an experienced science, technology and travel journalist and stargazer who writes about exploring the night sky, solar and lunar eclipses, moon-gazing, astro-travel, astronomy and space exploration. He is the editor of  WhenIsTheNextEclipse.com  and author of  A Stargazing Program For Beginners , and is a senior contributor at Forbes. His special skill is turning tech-babble into plain English.

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• Kehk in a MiG I've never actually heard "total lunar eclipse"; instead "umbral lunar eclipse". Nevertheless, either is correct. Reply
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(Brendan McDermid/Reuters)

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A federal proposal to include rental payments in calculating credit scores might help some Canadians move into home ownership, but it could have consequences on renters who are already struggling with rising costs.  One measure of the recently proposed Canadian Renters' Bill of Rights would use timely rental payments to calculate a person's credit rating. This, it said, would help level the playing field for young renters, particularly those who want to eventually buy a home. An amendment to the Canadian Mortgage Charter would urge landlords, banks, credit bureaus and fintech companies to include rental reporting in a credit score. Reaction to the federal proposal — which would require the co-operation of provinces — was mixed. Those in favour agree it would help aspiring homeowners build the financial credibility needed to qualify for a mortgage or help them secure a lower borrowing rate. Critics said the measure doesn't address the key issues of insufficient housing supply and affordability, but it could hurt the credit scores of people who are struggling to pay their rent on time.  Read the full story here . Now here's some good news to start your Tuesday:  Living up to his name, a dog in Taber, Alta., named Hero saved the life of his owner by protecting him from the elements, fighting off coyotes and eventually alerting people to his owner's whereabouts — stuck in a muddy ditch, unable to move for two days in temperatures as cold as –17 C.  Read the story here .

First Person: I solo hiked from Mexico to Canada for my inner journey. Instead, I found myself looking outward

Burned out from the pandemic working as a nurse, Jessica Donnan decided to quit her stable job and solo hike the Pacific Crest Trail. She thought she would be relying on herself — but also that no one would be relying on her. Surprisingly, both expectations turned out to be wrong.  Read her column here .

Front Burner: Ohtani, Porter and sport's gambling problem

As major sports leagues cozy up with betting apps, athletes have been getting caught up in gambling controversies. Could it threaten the future of their sports?

Today in history: April 2

1805:  One of the greatest children's storytellers, Hans Christian Andersen, is born in Odense, Denmark. He is best known for his stories  The Ugly Duckling, The Emperor's New Clothes and The Little Mermaid. 1873 : What became known as the Pacific Scandal erupts in the House of Commons. Liberal MP Lucius Seth Huntington charges that two businessmen gave money to the governing Conservatives in exchange for the contract to build the Canadian Pacific Railway. Prime Minister Sir John A. Macdonald's government survived a non-confidence motion that day, but he was forced out of office later in the year. 1968:  Montreal Mayor Jean Drapeau creates a voluntary "tax" program to help pay off the Expo 67 bill. This program is often referred to as the first modern-day lottery, although Drapeau denied it at the time, since lotteries were illegal.  2005:  Pope John Paul II dies at the age of 84, after 26 years as head of the Roman Catholic Church.

With files from The Canadian Press, The Associated Press and Reuters

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