Things to know before you go
Climate
Egypt generally experiences hot and extreme climate due to the presence of vast arid region but still there is difference in the climate of Upper Egypt and Lower Egypt. Climate in Egypt is usually hot and dry most of the year. Temperatures near the coast are low in comparison to other areas.
Month Cairo Alexandria Luxor Aswan Sharm Jan 8.6 / 19.1 9.3 / 18.3 5.4 / 23 8 / 23.8 24 / 21 Feb 9.3 / 21 9.7 / 19.2 6.8 / 25.4 9.4 / 26.1 25 / 20 March 11.2 / 23.7 11.3 / 21 10.7 / 29 12.6 / 30.4 25 / 21 April 13.9 / 28.2 14.5 / 23.6 15.7 / 35 17.5 / 36 31 / 22 May 17.4 / 32.4 16.7 / 26.5 20.7 / 39.3 21.1 / 38.5 28 / 24 June 19.9 / 34.5 20.4 / 28.2 22.6 / 41 24.2 / 42.1 32 / 25 July 21.5 / 35.4 22.7 / 29.6 23.6 / 40.8 24.5 / 42 37 / 26 Aug 21.6 / 34.8 22.9 / 30.4 23.5 / 41 24.7 / 41.3 38 / 28 Sept 19.9 / 23.3 21.3 / 29.4 21.5 / 38.5 22.2 / 39.6 34 / 29 Oct 17.8 / 29.8 17.9 / 27.7 17.8 / 35.1 19.3 / 36.6 30 / 27 Nov 12.1 / 24.1 14.8 / 24.4 12.3 / 29.6 14.5 / 30.2 27 / 25 Dec 10.4 / 20.7 11.2 / 20.4 7.7 / 24.8 9.9 / 20.5 23 / 23
Currency The Egyptian currency is the Egyptian Pound (In Arabic its known as Geneih) usually written as L.E. The Egyptian Pound is divided into 100 piasters ('isrh). It is mainly a paper currency but coins are used for fractions of the pound. Egypt's paper money has two faces; an Arabic face and an English one.
We recommend taking Australian dollars with you to Egypt. The exchange rate is better in Egypt than Australia. A currency exchange or ATM is available at most hotels.
Electricity
Egypt uses 220 volt and plugs are two prong rounded, 50 Hz. This can be purchased from any electronic store, two-dollar shop, or at the airport.
What to take
Don’t forget your Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. At some sites there is not a lot of shade so an umbrella would be handy. Antibacterial wipes /gel are always a good idea for Hygiene purposes. It is recommended to bring batteries and film for your camera or any other battery operated device before you go.
What to wear
Make sure you bring comfortable clothes and walking shoes. Even though it is a muslim country don’t hesitate to wear shorts or sleeveless tops. There are a couple of places where you will need to wear long pants or cover your shoulders, however your tour guide will inform you of this on the previous day. You will not be required to dress formally, however at dinner it is advised to wear neat casual clothing. Don’t forget your Swimmers. All hotels have swimming pools. Some are even heated for your convenience!
Between the end of November and the beginning of March the weather may be a little cool so make sure you bring something warm. Also be aware if you are planning on travelling on our 19 day tour, St Catherine’s is particularly cold all year around.
Enjoy your holiday without the Travel Bug
Before you travel ensures you are up to date with your vaccinations. Recommended Vaccinations for Egypt are Hepatitis A & B, Tetanus and Typhoid. Remember to ask your GP if there are any vaccinations recommended for you personally.
Whilst in Egypt it is recommended to only drink bottled water. Tap water is fine to use to wash with however as it is highly chlorinated and as we are not use to it, it may have a negative affect on us. Bottled water is easily accessible and very cheap.
Egyptian pharmacists are a good source of help for minor health complaints. They carry a wide range of medicines for minor ailments, however it is advisable to take an adequate supply of your current medication.
Tipping
Tipping is a way of life in Egypt. If someone does something you would consider as an extra effort, they expect to be tipped. However it does not work like other countries. For example, if you go to a restaurant, not only does the waiter require a tip but so does the chef, the manager, the cleaner and everyone else along the line. To avoid being ripped off by tipping too much, we have designed an easier way for you to enjoy your tour without being hassled. A small charge is calculated onto your invoice which is paid before you travel. This covers you for the full tour, from start to finish. However this will not deter locals from approaching you for a tip. If you are hassled advise your tour guide. If you wish to give them something, pens are always a good cheap idea, especially for children. If you go to a public bathroom make sure you keep small notes or coins on you as you will need to pay for use of their toilet.
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