• Introduction to Egypt Travel FAQs
• Visa & Entry FAQs for UK Travelers
• Safety FAQs for UK Tourists
• Budget & Cost FAQs
• Best Time to Visit FAQs

• Currency & Money FAQs
• Transportation FAQs
• Health & Medical FAQs
• Culture & Etiquette FAQs
• Practical Travel FAQs

• Accommodation FAQs
• Activities & Tours FAQs
• Packing & Preparation FAQs
• Complete FAQ Reference
• Conclusion & Next Steps

📸 IMAGE: British tourists at the Pyramids of Giza with question marks overlay and FAQ symbols

• Do UK citizens need a visa? Yes – £20-25 on arrival or e-Visa online
• Is Egypt safe? Yes – tourist areas have dedicated security
• How much does it cost? £25-200/day depending on style
• Best time to visit? October-April for comfortable weather

• What currency? Egyptian Pound (£1 ≈ 38-42 EGP)
• Can I drink tap water? No – bottled water only
• What should I wear? Modest clothing covering shoulders/knees
• Flight time from UK? 4.5-5.5 hours direct

❓ Do UK citizens need a visa for Egypt?

Yes, all UK passport holders require a visa to enter Egypt. This is one of the most frequently asked Egypt travel FAQs. You have three options: visa on arrival (£20-25), e-Visa online ($25 USD), or embassy visa. Most UK tourists choose visa on arrival for convenience. For step-by-step guidance, see our Egypt visa guide for UK travelers.

❓ How long must my UK passport be valid for Egypt?

Your UK passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date in Egypt—not your departure date from the UK. This is strictly enforced by airlines and Egyptian immigration. If your passport expires within 9 months of travel, renew it through the UK Passport Office before booking.

❓ What’s the difference between visa on arrival and e-Visa?

Both cost approximately the same ($25 USD), but e-Visa eliminates airport queuing. Apply online at the official Egyptian e-Visa portal 5-7 days before travel. Visa on arrival is instant but requires queuing at the airport—sometimes 15-30 minutes during peak times. This is a common Egypt tourist question we receive from UK travelers.

❓ How long can UK tourists stay in Egypt?

Standard tourist visas allow a maximum stay of 30 days. You can extend your visa at the Mogamma building in Cairo or immigration offices in Luxor and Aswan for approximately 1,100-1,500 EGP. Apply at least one week before your current visa expires to avoid overstay fines.

❓ What documents do I need for Egypt entry?

Essential documents include: valid UK passport (6+ months validity with 2 blank pages), visa (on arrival or e-Visa), return flight confirmation, accommodation booking, and travel insurance documents. Keep digital copies in cloud storage as backup. This comprehensive answer addresses one of the top Egypt travel questions UK tourists ask.

📸 IMAGE: UK passport with Egyptian visa stamp and e-Visa confirmation on smartphone

❓ Is Egypt safe for UK tourists in 2025?

Yes, Egypt is generally safe for UK tourists in main tourist areas. The UK Foreign Office advises against travel to certain border areas (North Sinai, Libya border) but confirms tourist destinations are safe with normal precautions. This is the most common Egypt travel FAQ we receive from British travelers.

❓ Is Egypt safe for solo female UK travelers?

Solo female travel is possible with extra precautions. Dress modestly, stay in well-reviewed accommodations, use reputable tour operators, and maintain confident body language. Many UK women travel solo successfully by taking standard sensible precautions. Consider joining group tours for additional security and companionship.

❓ What are the main safety concerns in Egypt?

Petty crime (pickpocketing in crowded markets) and tourist scams are the primary concerns—not violent crime. Common scams include overcharging for taxis, fake “guides” demanding payment, and aggressive vendors. Use ride-hailing apps like Uber, decline unsolicited help, and agree on prices before services. These Egypt travel tips UK travelers need prevent most issues.

❓ What emergency numbers should UK tourists know?

Tourist Police: 126 (English speakers available) | Emergency: 122 | Ambulance: 123 | UK Embassy Cairo: +20 2 2791 6000. Save these numbers in your phone before traveling. The tourist police specifically assist international visitors and should be your first contact for any issues.

• Register with the UK Embassy
• Keep document copies in cloud storage
• Share itinerary with UK family/friends
• Use hotel safes for valuables

• Download offline maps before traveling
• Avoid isolated areas after dark
• Use registered taxis or Uber/Careem
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance

❓ How much does a week in Egypt cost from the UK?

A week in Egypt typically costs £600-1,500 per person depending on travel style. Budget travelers manage on £400-600, mid-range tourists spend £800-1,200, and luxury travelers pay £1,500+. This includes accommodation, meals, transport, and activities but excludes international flights (£250-600 return from UK).

❓ How much spending money should UK tourists bring daily?

Daily spending varies by style: Budget: £25-40 (hostels, street food, public transport) | Mid-range: £60-100 (3-star hotels, restaurants, guided tours) | Comfort: £100-180 (4-star hotels, private tours) | Luxury: £200+ (5-star resorts, exclusive experiences). This Egypt travel information UK tourists need helps with realistic budgeting.

❓ How much do flights from UK to Egypt cost?

Return flights range from £200-600 depending on airline, season, and booking timing. Budget airlines (easyJet, TUI) offer deals from £200-350. Standard carriers (British Airways, EgyptAir) cost £300-500. Business class runs £800-1,500+. Book 3-4 months ahead for best prices, avoiding Christmas and Easter peak periods.

❓ Is tipping expected in Egypt?

Yes, tipping (baksheesh) is an essential part of Egyptian culture. Budget £3-5 daily. Guidelines: restaurant servers 10-15%, hotel porters 20-30 EGP, housekeeping 20-50 EGP daily, tour guides 100-200 EGP/day, taxi drivers round up fare. For complete guidance, see our tipping in Egypt guide.

📸 IMAGE: UK pounds and Egyptian pounds with calculator and budget planner

🌟 PEAK SEASON (November-February)

Weather: 15-25°C | Best For: First-time visitors, historical touring | Crowds: High | Prices: Highest – book 3-6 months ahead

🌸 SHOULDER SEASON (March-April, October)

Weather: 20-32°C | Best For: Value seekers, all activities | Crowds: Moderate | Prices: 20-40% savings

☀️ HOT SEASON (May-September)

Weather: 30-45°C+ | Best For: Red Sea holidays, budget travelers | Crowds: Low | Prices: 40-60% off

❓ When is the best time for UK travelers to visit Egypt?

October through April offers the most comfortable weather for UK travelers (15-30°C). November-February is ideal for historical touring but busiest with highest prices. March-April and October provide excellent value with comfortable temperatures. For complete weather analysis, see our Egypt weather guide by month.

❓ How hot does Egypt get in summer?

Summer temperatures in Luxor and Aswan regularly exceed 40°C, sometimes reaching 45-50°C. Cairo averages 35-38°C. Red Sea resorts are more bearable (32-35°C) due to sea breezes. If visiting in summer, focus activities around early morning (5-8 AM) and late afternoon, spending midday in air-conditioning.

❓ Does it ever rain in Egypt?

Egypt receives minimal rainfall—less than 25mm annually in most areas. Alexandria and the Mediterranean coast get slightly more rain (50-100mm) during winter months. Southern Egypt (Luxor, Aswan) is virtually rainless. Pack light layers for occasional cool winter evenings rather than rain gear.

❓ Should I exchange money before leaving the UK?

Exchange a small amount (£50-100) for immediate expenses but get better rates in Egypt. UK exchange bureaus offer poor rates for Egyptian pounds. Use ATMs in Egypt for the best exchange rates, or bring clean USD/GBP notes to exchange at Egyptian banks. This is valuable Egypt travel information UK tourists need.

❓ Do UK debit/credit cards work in Egypt?

Major UK cards (Visa, Mastercard) work at hotels, upscale restaurants, and tourist shops. However, many businesses prefer cash. ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Notify your UK bank of travel plans to prevent fraud blocks. Consider travel-friendly cards like Revolut or Wise for better exchange rates.

❓ How much cash should UK tourists carry daily?

Carry enough Egyptian pounds for daily expenses plus tips—typically 1,000-2,000 EGP (£25-50) for moderate spending. Keep larger amounts in hotel safes. Markets, street vendors, taxis, and tips require cash. Carry small denominations (20-50 EGP notes) for tips and small purchases.

❓ What are ATM fees in Egypt for UK cards?

Egyptian ATMs typically charge 30-50 EGP (£0.75-1.25) per withdrawal. Your UK bank may add £2-5 per transaction plus 2.5-3% currency conversion fees. Minimize fees by withdrawing larger amounts less frequently, or use travel cards with no foreign transaction fees.

🚇 Cairo Metro

£0.10-0.15 per journey | Clean, efficient, air-conditioned | Women-only carriages available | Covers major tourist areas

🚕 Uber/Careem

£1.50-5 typical Cairo ride | Safest taxi option | Fixed pricing, no haggling | Download apps before arrival

✈️ Domestic Flights

Cairo-Luxor: £40-100 | 1 hour flight vs 10+ hours by road | EgyptAir main carrier | Book in advance

🚂 Sleeper Trains

Cairo-Aswan: £50-100 | Overnight comfort | Dinner and breakfast included | Book via Watania Sleeper

❓ How long is the flight from UK to Egypt?

Direct flights from London to Cairo take 4.5-5 hours. Flights to Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh take 5-5.5 hours. Direct services operate from Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, and Birmingham. Egypt is GMT+2 (2 hours ahead of UK time year-round, 1 hour ahead during British Summer Time).

❓ Should UK tourists use taxis or ride-hailing apps?

Uber and Careem are strongly recommended for UK tourists. Benefits include fixed pricing (no haggling), GPS tracking, card payment option, English interface, and driver ratings. Download both apps before arriving. Traditional taxis can overcharge tourists—if using them, agree on the price before starting the journey.

❓ Is it safe for UK tourists to drive in Egypt?

Driving in Egypt is not recommended for UK tourists unfamiliar with local conditions. Traffic in Cairo is chaotic, road rules are loosely followed, and navigation is challenging. Use taxis, Uber, or hire private drivers with vehicles for long-distance travel. This important Egypt travel tip UK travelers should heed.

📸 IMAGE: Cairo Metro, Uber app on phone, Egyptian train, and Nile cruise boat collage

❓ Can UK tourists drink the tap water in Egypt?

No. UK travelers should drink only bottled water throughout their stay. Bottled water costs 30-50p per 1.5L bottle and is readily available. Also avoid ice unless at international hotels, skip raw vegetables washed in tap water, and use bottled water for brushing teeth in budget accommodations.

❓ What vaccinations do UK travelers need for Egypt?

No vaccinations are mandatory for UK travelers (unless arriving from yellow fever endemic areas). Recommended: Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Consider: Hepatitis B for longer stays. Ensure routine UK vaccinations (MMR, tetanus) are up-to-date. Consult your GP or a travel clinic 4-6 weeks before departure. Check TravelHealthPro for current advice.

❓ Do UK tourists need travel insurance for Egypt?

Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is essential. Ensure minimum £2 million medical coverage, emergency repatriation, trip cancellation protection, and personal belongings coverage. If diving in the Red Sea, confirm your policy covers this activity. Typical cost: £40-90 for a two-week trip. Declare all pre-existing conditions.

❓ How do UK tourists avoid stomach problems in Egypt?

Follow the “boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it” rule. Drink only bottled water, avoid ice, eat at busy restaurants with high turnover, skip raw salads and unpeeled fruits, choose hot freshly cooked food, and wash hands frequently. Carry anti-diarrheal medication and rehydration salts just in case.

• Prescription medications (sufficient supply + doctor’s letter)
• Basic first aid kit
• Anti-diarrheal medication
• Rehydration salts
• Antihistamines for allergies

• High SPF sunscreen (50+)
• Insect repellent (DEET-based)
• Hand sanitizer
• Motion sickness tablets (for Nile cruises)
• Copies of prescriptions

❓ What should women wear in Egypt?

Dress modestly in cities and cultural sites: cover shoulders and knees with loose-fitting clothing. Headscarves are only required inside mosques (often provided at entrance). Red Sea resorts allow Western beachwear within resort boundaries. Pack breathable, lightweight fabrics. See our Egypt packing list for specifics.

❓ What should men wear in Egypt?

Men should wear long trousers (not shorts) when visiting cities and religious sites. T-shirts are acceptable but avoid sleeveless vests in conservative areas. Shorts are fine at Red Sea resorts. Remove shoes when entering mosques. Smart-casual works for most restaurants.

❓ Is alcohol available in Egypt?

Yes, alcohol is available to tourists. You’ll find it in hotels, resorts, restaurants catering to tourists, and licensed bars. Local Egyptian beers (Stella, Sakara) are widely available. International wines and spirits are sold at higher prices. Alcohol is not consumed openly in public or near mosques.

❓ Can UK tourists visit mosques in Egypt?

Yes, many mosques welcome visitors outside prayer times. Remove shoes before entering and dress modestly. Women should cover their hair (scarves often provided). Don’t walk in front of people praying. Avoid visiting during Friday noon prayers. Major tourist mosques like Sultan Hassan and Al-Azhar expect visitors.

❓ Is bargaining expected in Egypt?

Yes, bargaining is expected and even enjoyed in markets (souks), small shops, and for taxis. Start at 30-50% of the asking price and negotiate from there. Be friendly and smile—it’s a social interaction, not a battle. Fixed prices apply in supermarkets, shopping malls, and most established stores.

❓ Do I need an Egyptian SIM card or can I use UK roaming?

Egyptian SIM cards offer much better value: £10-15 for 2 weeks with 15-25GB data versus £35-140 for UK roaming with limited data. Buy Vodafone or Orange SIM at the airport arrival hall—bring your passport for registration. Tourist packages include generous data plus local calls.

❓ What plug adapter do UK travelers need for Egypt?

Egypt uses Type C and F plugs (European 2-pin round plugs). UK travelers need a UK to European adapter. Most hotels provide adapters, but bringing your own is recommended. Universal adapters work well. Egypt’s voltage is 220V, compatible with UK electronics.

❓ Do Egyptians speak English?

English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and by guides. However, it’s appreciated when visitors learn basic Arabic phrases: “Shukran” (thank you), “La shukran” (no thank you), “Marhaba” (hello), “Bikam?” (how much?). Outside tourist zones, English is less common. Download Google Translate with Arabic offline language pack.

❓ What time zone is Egypt in compared to UK?

Egypt is GMT+2 year-round (Egypt Standard Time). This means Egypt is 2 hours ahead of UK during winter (GMT) and 1 hour ahead during British Summer Time (BST, March-October). Egypt does not observe daylight saving time.

📸 IMAGE: UK tourist with smartphone showing Egyptian SIM card packages and plug adapters

❓ What types of accommodation are available in Egypt?

Egypt offers everything from budget hostels (£8-15/night) and budget hotels (£15-30/night) to mid-range hotels (£35-70/night), luxury hotels (£80-200/night), and ultra-luxury resorts (£250-500+/night). Red Sea all-inclusive resorts offer excellent value. Nile cruises provide unique floating accommodation.

❓ Should UK tourists book accommodation in advance?

Yes, especially during peak season (November-February) and around Egyptian holidays. Book 3-6 months ahead for winter travel to secure best rates and availability. Shoulder season (March-April, October) can be booked 1-2 months ahead. Summer offers last-minute availability with significant discounts.

❓ Are all-inclusive resorts worth it in Egypt?

All-inclusive resorts in Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh offer excellent value for UK travelers. Packages typically include accommodation, all meals, drinks (including alcohol), and beach/pool facilities. Quality varies—read reviews carefully and choose 4-5 star properties for best experience. Perfect for relaxed beach holidays.

❓ How much does it cost to visit the Pyramids of Giza?

Entry fees (2025): Giza Pyramid Complex: 540 EGP (£13) | Great Pyramid Interior: 880 EGP (£22) | Solar Boat Museum: 100 EGP (£2.50). Guided tours range from £20-50 for group tours to £80-150 for private Egyptologist guides. Camel rides cost 200-400 EGP (£5-10) depending on duration.

❓ Should UK tourists book tours in advance or locally?

Both work, but booking in advance provides peace of mind and often better prices. Local booking can save 10-20% but requires negotiation skills and carries more uncertainty. For specialized experiences (Nile cruises, hot air balloons, multi-day tours), book 2-4 weeks ahead, especially during peak season.

❓ Is Red Sea diving good for UK tourists?

The Red Sea offers world-class diving at excellent prices. Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh are top destinations with clear waters, vibrant coral, and diverse marine life. Day trips with 2 dives cost £40-65. PADI certification courses are available. Year-round diving is possible, with water temperatures 21-28°C.

❓ What are the must-see attractions for UK tourists?

Top attractions: Pyramids of Giza, Egyptian Museum (Cairo), Valley of the Kings (Luxor), Karnak Temple, Abu Simbel, Nile cruise, Khan el-Khalili bazaar, Red Sea diving/snorkeling, Philae Temple (Aswan). A comprehensive 10-14 day trip can cover the highlights. Most UK travelers focus on Cairo + Luxor/Aswan or combine Cairo + Red Sea.

❓ What sunscreen should UK tourists bring to Egypt?

Bring high SPF sunscreen (50+) from the UK as good quality is expensive in Egypt. Egyptian sun is intense, even in winter. Reapply frequently, especially around water. Also bring SPF lip balm, after-sun lotion, and a wide-brimmed hat. UV-protective sunglasses are essential.

❓ What medications should UK tourists bring?

Bring all prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor’s letter. Also pack: anti-diarrheal (Imodium), rehydration salts, paracetamol/ibuprofen, antihistamines, motion sickness tablets for Nile cruises, and basic first aid supplies. Pharmacies are available but language barriers can complicate purchases.

Do UK citizens need a visa for Egypt?

Yes – visa on arrival (£20-25) or e-Visa online ($25 USD). Valid for 30 days.

Is Egypt safe for British tourists?

Yes – tourist areas are safe with dedicated security. 415,000+ UK visitors annually.

How much does a week in Egypt cost?

£600-1,500 per person including accommodation, meals, transport, activities. Excludes flights.

When is the best time to visit Egypt?

October-April for comfortable weather (15-30°C). Nov-Feb is peak season.

Can I drink the tap water?

No – bottled water only. Costs 30-50p per 1.5L. Avoid ice and raw vegetables.

What vaccinations are needed?

None mandatory. Recommended: Hepatitis A, Typhoid. Consult GP 4-6 weeks before.

What’s the currency exchange rate?

£1 ≈ 38-42 EGP (Egyptian Pound). ATMs offer best rates. Use travel cards.

Should I buy an Egyptian SIM card?

Yes – £10-15 for 2 weeks vs £35-140 UK roaming. Buy Vodafone/Orange at airport.

How long is the flight from UK?

4.5-5 hours direct to Cairo. 5-5.5 hours to Hurghada/Sharm El Sheikh.

What should women wear in Egypt?

Modest clothing: cover shoulders and knees. Headscarf for mosques (often provided).

Is tipping expected?

Yes, “baksheesh” is customary. Budget £3-5 daily for various tips.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, essential. Minimum £2M medical coverage, repatriation, cancellation. Costs £40-90 for 2 weeks.

1. Not checking passport validity

Must be valid 6+ months from arrival. Airlines deny boarding if not compliant.

2. Using UK roaming instead of local SIM

Wastes £50-100+. Egyptian SIM costs £10-15 with better coverage and data.

3. Skipping travel insurance

One medical emergency costs more than years of premiums. Essential protection.

4. Dressing inappropriately

Shows cultural insensitivity. Cover shoulders and knees in cities and temples.

5. Not carrying small change for tips

Creates awkward situations. Keep 20-50 EGP notes ready throughout the day.

📸 IMAGE: Happy British couple at the Pyramids with sunset, holding guidebook

We offer:

• Tailored itineraries matching your interests and budget
• Expert Egyptologist guides fluent in English
• Carefully selected accommodations and transport
• 24/7 UK-based customer support
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees

 

🌍 Egypt Travel Basics

Complete overview for first-time visitors

 

 

🎫 Egypt Visa Guide

Step-by-step visa application process

 

 

🛡️ Egypt Safety Guide

Comprehensive safety information

 

 

💷 Egypt Costs Guide

Complete budget breakdown

 

 

🌤️ Best Time to Visit

Seasonal travel recommendations

 

 

🎒 Packing List

What to bring for Egypt