Water & Hygiene

DO NOT DRINK TAP WATER — not even for brushing teeth. Egyptian tap water contains bacteria and parasites that European stomachs are not accustomed to. Always buy bottled water (1.5 liters from 5–10 LE). Check that the seal is unopened (some vendors refill bottles with tap water).

In restaurants: No ice cubes in simple local restaurants (in hotels and upscale restaurants, ice from filtered water is okay). Avoid salads and raw vegetables in simple restaurants — often washed with tap water.