First-Time Visitor Tips

15 things I wish I had known before my first trip to Egypt:

1. Bakshish is ubiquitous. Tipping (Bakshish, بقشيش) is not an option but a social obligation. Porters: 20–50 LE. Housekeeping: 20–50 LE/day. Restaurant waiters: 10–15% of the bill. Toilet attendants: 5–10 LE. Always keep small bills ready (5, 10, 20 LE).
2. Bargaining is a must. In the bazaar, the first price is ALWAYS 5–10 times higher than the final price. Start at 20–30% of the quoted price and meet in the middle. Be friendly, smile, walk away if necessary — the vendor will call you back.
3. Uber works fantastically in Cairo. Forget taxis — Uber (and Careem) are safe, affordable, and you don't have to negotiate. The app shows the price beforehand. Highly recommended!
4. Do not drink tap water. Not even for brushing teeth, and no ice cubes in simple restaurants. Always buy bottled water. Check that the seal is unopened.
5. The pyramids are not in the desert. Well, they are — but right next to them begins the city of Giza. The contrast between urban chaos and the 4,500-year-old monuments is surreal. You can see the pyramids from Pizza Hut.
6. Clothing: Cover shoulders and knees. Egypt is a conservative, Muslim country. Especially women should cover shoulders and knees outside beach resorts. In mosques: headscarf for women, long pants for everyone. Western standards apply on beaches and in resorts.
7. Touts are the biggest stress factor. At tourist attractions (especially pyramids, Luxor), dozens of people will approach you: "Where are you from? Want to ride a camel? I'll show you something!" Politely but firmly say "La, shukran" (No, thank you) and move on.
8. Photos often cost money. In many temples and museums, photography is allowed, but there is a camera fee (50–300 LE). In some tombs in the Valley of the Kings, photography is completely forbidden. Check beforehand.
9. Egyptian food is vegetarian-friendly. Ful, Ta'amiya, Koshari, Mahshi — the everyday cuisine is surprisingly plant-based. Meat is a luxury for many Egyptians, so vegetarian dishes are the traditional classics.
10. Traffic in Cairo follows its own rules. Traffic lights are suggestions, lane changes are announced by honking, pedestrians cross 6-lane roads in moving traffic. Take Uber, not the wheel.
11. Negotiate EVERYTHING beforehand. Taxi price, tour price, camel ride price, even the price in a restaurant (if there is no clearly marked menu). If the price is unclear, you will definitely pay too much.
12. Egyptians are incredibly hospitable. Behind the tourist business sense lies genuine warmth. If an Egyptian invites you for tea, they mean it. The warmth of the people is one of the country's greatest treasures.
13. Sun protection is vital. UV index 10–12 in summer, even in winter at 6–8. SPF 50+ is a must. In the desert, additionally wear a hat, sunglasses, and carry enough water (at least 3 liters/day).
14. The Grand Egyptian Museum is a game-changer. Since the opening of the GEM near Giza, Egypt has a world-class museum. Plan at least 4–5 hours, better a whole day. Book tickets online in advance!
15. Exchange rates and cash. Do not exchange at the airport (worst rate). Withdraw money at ATMs (CIB and Banque Misr have the best machines) or pay by card in hotels and upscale restaurants. In the bazaar and for street food, you need cash in LE.