Over30Egypt FAQs

Your questions answered for our Over30Experiences Egypt Trip

Visualize the experience

highlights

Experience Egypt

  • Camel ride to the Giza Pyramids & Sphinx
  • Sail the Nile on a traditional Felucca boat
  • Experience the Abu Simbel Temples
  • Visit the tombs at the Valley of the Kings
  • Share meals in local family’s homes
Egypt, The Land of Pharaohs, is surely a bucket-list destination. With the mighty Nile River and astonishing monuments, mixed with thousands of years of culture, travelers will definitely find something that suits their interests.

Have a question about the Over30Experiences Egypt trip?

What is the currency in Egypt?

The Egyptian pound (EGP).

Do I need a visa to travel to Egypt?

A visa is required when traveling as a tourist from Canada or the United States. A visa can be obtained upon arrival at Cairo International Airport (CAI) for $25 and will be valid for up to 30 days. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Egypt.

Applicable travelers can also apply for an E-Visa.

When is the best time to visit Egypt?

The best time to visit Egypt is during winter from October to April, when temperatures are lower. The most popular time for tourists is December and January.

What is the official language spoken in Egypt?

The official language in Egypt is Arabic. Your Trip Leader will be fluent in both Arabic and English and can help you with any translations if needed.

What type of luggage is best?

The lighter the better! If you only have a rolling suitcase that will work, but if you can get your hands on a more mobile bag, like a large backpack, that would be better. We take all forms of transportation, and move often on this trip. Loading your suitcase on and off all these modes of transportation can be challenging.

You'll also want a daypack for your personal gear, food, and drinks for the day.

What are the luggage allowances on the domestic flight to Aswan?

We are allowed 1 carry-on and 1 checked bag with a maximum of 23 kilograms.

What is it like to travel in Egypt during Ramadan?

Traveling to Egypt during this Muslim holiday can be a wonderful cultural experience, but there are a few things to know...

During Ramadan, establishments close earlier in the afternoon to allow people to go home and pray. Then, everything opens back up at sundown and people happily break their fast. Please note that it may be more difficult to find alcohol and nightlife in an Islamic country during Ramadan.

When Ramadan ends you'll get to see people celebrating the joyous Eid al-Fitr holiday.

Are women expected to dress more culturally appropriate?

While you will see many women wearing hijabs in Jordan, there are also plenty of women who do not wear them. You will notice that for the most part (outside of the international bars and restaurants), women dress conservatively, with chest, shoulders, and legs covered.

What is the common dress style for men?

Clothing among the locals is generally conservative and traditional. You will see men wearing loose trousers and long sleeves.  Gallibayas, the traditional man clothing, is a loose-fitting, long dress or shirt. We suggest that male travelers on our trip respect these customs and do their best to dress similar to the locals.

How welcoming is Egypt to LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Egypt is not a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers who wish to openly express their sexuality and/or gender identity outside of a very rigid, heterosexual binary.

Discretion is advised for LGBTQIA+  travelers in Egypt. Though homosexuality is not officially outlawed, gay men and transgender individuals have been prosecuted using debauchery and public morals laws and given long prison sentences.

We recommend LGBTQIA+ travelers exercise caution and discretion while in Egypt.

Can we find ATMs in Egypt?

Yes, ATMs are available in Egypt. There are fees associated with transactions.

Understand that Egypt operates mostly on cash, however credit cards are accepted at more modern shopping malls, restaurants, and hotels.

Is there a tipping culture in Egypt?

Yes. Tipping 10–15% of your bill total is customary at cafes and restaurants, and loose change is acceptable for food purchases from street vendors and markets.

Can I drink the water in Egypt?

No. Though it is safe for bathing, brushing your teeth, and rinsing off fruits and vegetables, it is not recommended to drink tap water. Please bring a reusable water bottle (and even a reusable straw) and join us in our efforts to be environmentally friendly and keep Egypt beautiful.

I noticed the trip begins in Cairo and ends in Hurghada. How do you recommend I arrange my flights?

We suggest booking a round-trip ticket arriving and departing from Cairo. Then book a separate domestic flight from Hurghada to Cairo. Additionally, you can take a local bus from Hurghada to Cairo. The travel time is approximately 6-8 hours.

The Hurghada Airport (HRG) is an international airport, so you can arrange for departing flights directly from this airport as well.

What should I expect from the overnight experience aboard the felucca?

All travelers will be sleeping in a common space on the deck of the boat for one night. There are shared bathrooms facilities on the boat. The felucca experience is a private boat for only your group.

What if it rains during our overnight felucca experience?

Though rain is very uncommon, if there is a rain storm, the boat is equipped with a cover to protect against the elements. This protective cover can also be used for strong winds or sandy storms.

Do I need a power adapter?

Yes. For Egypt there are two associated plug types C and F. Plug type C is the plug which has two round pins and plug type F is the plug which has two round pins with two earth clips on the side. Egypt operates on a 220V supply voltage and 50Hz.

How much should I budget for food and activities?

We generally recommend $350 USD.

2 dinners and 6 lunches will be at your expense. Average meals range from $8-15 USD, depending on your restaurant selection. If you are eating from local street food vendors, then the price will be less expensive.

Optional activities range from a few dollars to enter museums to $20 for touring Philae Temple at night. The more expensive optional activities are for those that would like to go scuba diving while in Hurghada with prices costing a minimum of $60.

How much free time do we have to explore Cairo?

There is an included visit to the Khan El Khalil bazaar and the famous El Moez street on the first evening of the trip. After you visit the Pyramids of Giza on Day 2, you will have the afternoon and evening to explore Cairo. Because we take fly to Aswan with Over30Experiences, you'll have more time to explore Cairo, as we are not taking the overnight train like we do on the Under30Experiences itinerary.

Will there be opportunities to go swimming?

Yes, your accommodations in Aswan, Luxor, and Hurghada all have pools. You will also have a free day of leisure in Hurghada. On this day you can opt to relax on the beach or join a boat tour that includes snorkeling.

I am scuba certified. Will I have the opportunity to go scuba diving on this trip?

Hurghada is a popular scuba diving destination in Egypt and offers an opportunity to explore the marine life of the Red Sea. The final day of this trip allows time for scuba diving. However, due to safety concerns with diving and flying, we recommend you extend your stay to get the most out of your diving experience.

What type of weather should I expect?

Egypt has a dry desert climate and is generally both hot and sunny. Expect daytime temperatures to be in the upper 80s Fahrenheit with the possibility of reaching 100 Fahrenheit.

Can I opt-out of an included activity?

Of course! This trip is your trip, and you don’t have to participate in anything you don’t want to. Just be aware that opting out of included activities will not change the price of the trip.

Do you have last-minute deals?

Yes! When travelers take advantage of our “Switch Your Trip” program, last-minute slots open up on sold-out trips.

Sign up to the list to be notified.

Have a question that's not on this list?

Feel free to reach out to our all-star customer service team at bookings@over30experiences.com.

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