Know Before You Go

• Tourist visas for Egypt must be obtained online before travel.

• Our UK partners can advise you, but it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct travel documents before leaving the UK.

• Your passport must have at least 6 months’ validity from your arrival date.

• Adequate full travel insurance must be in place before you travel for all members of your party.

• All sightseeing tickets in Egypt are paid by card only — no cash is accepted.

• Your tours do not include entrance tickets, so you will need to purchase these yourself.

• At the Egyptian Museum, queues can be long and confusing, so we strongly recommend buying your tickets online before you arrive.

• We can advise you on this — but please be careful not to buy tickets for Egyptian nationals, as these are not valid for tourists.

The Weather

• Egypt is H.O.T — HOT!

• Our tours run from October to April, when temperatures are more comfortable.

• We are happy to discuss travel outside these months, but the heat is often unsuitable for fairer skin.

​

What to Wear

Egypt is a country with different cultural values, and modest clothing is appreciated.

For women, we recommend:

• Shoulders and knees covered

• Lightweight long trousers (linen is ideal)

• Avoiding too much bare skin, especially in quieter, nontourist areas where attention may be unwanted

​

Practical considerations:

• You may sit on the floor, perch on stone walls, or walk on dusty, uneven ground

• Comfortable, breathable clothing and sturdy footwear are essential

• Tipping in Egypt is customary and expected — it is considered rude not to tip.

• Please don’t misunderstand this; tips help supplement low wages and make a real difference.

• On Nile cruises, tipping is usually done at the end, in cash.

  • An envelope is provided

  • Tips are shared fairly among all crew, including those you may not see

• You are welcome to tip additionally during your cruise, but the final envelope is still expected.

• We are committed to fairness for all staff.

Egypt is a developing country with strong religious and cultural traditions.

• Most people are Muslim or Coptic Christian.

• Not everyone follows religious practices strictly, but respect and kindness are essential.

• Luxor and Aswan are used to tourism; other areas may not be, so you may be seen as “different” or even “otherworldly”.

• You may see children helping parents at work or not in school — this is often normal and not a sign of neglect.

• Remember: you cannot solve the world’s problems during your holiday.

• Overall, Egyptians are extremely friendly and want to do their best for you.

• Relax, enjoy the attention, and always be considerate.

• Standard Nile cruises operate one way only:

  • 4 nights Luxor → Aswan

  • 3 nights Aswan → Luxor (depending on your itinerary)

• If you charter a sandal or dahabiya, the route is flexible.

• Do not give your luggage to anyone else to carry at airports or ports, even if asked directly.

  • Cruise staff will assist you safely.

​

Looking at a Nile cruise specifically? See full cruise options & inclusions →

• Stay hydrated — bottled water is widely available.

• Bring any personal medication you need.

• Hotels and cruise ships have good facilities and airconditioning.

• If you have SEND, mobility, sensory, or health needs, please tell us — we will support you.

• Some areas do not allow photography.

• Most sites do, but staff or individuals may expect a small tip if you photograph them.

• We will always help you navigate these situations.

• We are always on hand to answer questions.