Author: Anaisa Mohamed
• SA citizens can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport – it costs USD 25
• The Egyptian pound is a closed currency, meaning you may not acquire it outside Egypt. Either utilize your debit card or draw from an ATM. Note that some places do not take debit cards, and you will require cash. Most large hotels & resorts have ATMs.
• Due to the fluctuations of the currency, most tourism-related things (flights, accommodations, tours) are charged for in USD. Be prepared to pay for these in USD. (cash or debit/credit card).
• Buy a SIM card on arrival. Both times that I went, I used Orange without any issues. Vodafone & Etisalat have similar services & prices. You will need internet access for Uber and at least your banking app.
• The south of Egypt has absolutely no winter at all. It is not recommended at all during the summer months. Because of this, the peak season of Egypt is their winter (November to March). The south of Egypt is primarily for Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel, and this can be done through a cruise, which is highly recommended.
• Alternative trips to the Red Sea (Sharm el Sheikh & Hurghada) can also be trips to Siwa Oasis and Bahariya desert. These are ideally done through a guide, and I do not recommend booking online.
• The internal flights may seem pricy for the short flight times. However, take into consideration the hours on the road that it may take to get to your destination, and in the end, the flight is a hassle-free solution.
• Consider utilizing the services of an accredited tour company. Egypt is a country whose main income is from the tourism industry, so the level of service from an accredited and professional company will make your trip an amazing experience. The guide will even show you what is better than what you have seen on the internet.
• An excellent guide will help you with shopping, and the haggling culture of Egypt. In places like Khan el Khalili, some shops have fixed prices, and most are recommended by guides.
• Cairo airport is a labyrinth. There is a bus to get from the international terminal to the domestic terminal if you are taking a connecting flight on arrival to Cairo. I do recommend spending a night in Cairo upon arrival if your flight arrives in the afternoon, and then taking an early flight to Sharm/Hurghada first thing the next morning.
• Stop in Cairo last. Internal flights only allow 1 checked-in bag & flights to and from South Africa to Egypt, usually allow 2 checked-in bags. You are going to want to shop in Egypt – don’t try to convince yourself otherwise.
• Book your tours and cruise in advance. Great guides can make your trip, and not having a guide will make your trip a waste. Don’t do the latter.
• Do not forget to tip! Again, Egypt is a tourism-based country & tips are part of the culture.
• Pack your flu medication in. It may seem small, but with the change in temperature & climate in the Middle East, this is a must. Also, do not forget your sunscreen.
• Please try the local food – both Egyptian and Syrian food is amazing. Egypt also has amazing Italian places all over the tourist hot spots, so please do not skip out on these.
• Food to try: Shawarma, mixed grills, Egyptian authentic breakfast (foul, falafel, hummus, eggs, hummus, pita), stuffed pigeon, koshary, fresh fruit juices, desserts.
• Must buy items in Egypt:
- cotton products (towels, bedding, abayas, hijabs), Egyptian saffron, oud/bakhoor, authentic papyrus with Arabic/Quranic prints, essential oils, arab perfumes, and spices. Don’t forget souvenirs such as magnets, bookmarks, and keyrings at the Khan el Khalili souk.
- Be careful when purchasing fake papyrus, essential oils, cartouches, gold, and silver. Again, an excellent guide will help you avoid purchasing fakes, especially since the cheaper prices may seem like a bargain.
About the Author:
My name is Anaisa. While I was born in Portugal, I grew up, schooled, and worked in Johannesburg, so I am South African in spirit. I have been living in Mozambique for over a decade and am passionate about seeing the world, one Masjid at a time.
My travel as a single parent will always be economical, yet luxe, and finding amazing halal places to eat. I am always looking for travel tips to share, use, and be inspired to travel. I never have less than 3 trips planned at any given time. If you’re wondering, I am a corporate legal professional, and that is what pays the bills.
My insta and tiktok handle is @i_am_anaisa.
