Egypt Travel Guide: What First-Time Visitors Should Know
This is a travel guide blog for those who are planning to visit Egypt or making bookings for a Nile cruise in Egypt in 2026. Know everything from the best time to visit to the safety tips travelers must follow while exploring the ancient Egyptian wonders.
The best and ideal time to visit Egypt
Undoubtedly, the best and most favorable time to visit Egypt is from October to April. During these months, Egypt has pleasant weather during the day and night. It makes the serene experience on the Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan more mesmerizing and calm.During the summer, from May to September, it is the peak of summer, and the temperature during the day exceeds 40°C, especially in cities like Luxor and Aswan. Sightseeing at temples and historical wonders is more relaxing during the winter months than during the scorching heat of summer.
Travel Tip: Plan your trip between January and April to witness the majestic natural beauty. During this time, Egypt has its peak tourist season, so it is preferable to take inclusive packages to make your travel affordable.
Visa and Entry Requirements
A traveler entering Egypt for tourism purposes requires a passport with a validity of 6 months. In general, e-visas or visas on arrival are provided to tourists from immigration checks at the airport, like Cairo International Airport.Must-haves to get an Egyptian Tourist Visa
- Confirmed Return Tickets
- Hotel Bookings
- Itinerary proofs
- Bank account statements, to show funds
- Complete identity documents like a passport and proof of citizenship.
It is preferred to keep attested photocopies of the documents and digitally scanned copies to help you get a visa on arrival easily. Taking a tourist visa is less of a hassle if you get a tour package from trusted cruise companies or Egyptian travel companies.
Things you should know about Egyptian culture and Etiquette
The citizens of Egypt, or locals, are friendly and have a welcoming nature. Respecting the locals can help you connect better with them. Some major things that as a traveler you should keep in mind are listed below:- Wear modest clothes, especially while in temples and cultural cities in rural areas.
- Always ask for permission while clicking pictures with the locals.
- Using native phrases like “Shukran” (thank you) or “Salam Alaikum” (hello) will be appreciated and help you establish a better connection with the locals.
- On the cruises, you can wear what you want; onboard, most cruise providers have English-speaking guides who can better guide you and help you in easy communication.
Tip: Before leaving for the trip, a little research about the culture and etiquette of Egypt can enhance your overall travel experience.
Top Places to Visit for First-Time Travelers
If you are travelling to Egypt for the first time and then on a Dahabiya Nile cruise, some major sites that a traveler must visit are:- Aswan: a major port city, and most cruises embark from here. In Aswan, tourists can visit the Aswan High Dam, Philae Temple, and Nubian villages. On extended trips, they can also explore Abu Simbel.
- Luxor: Major temples like Karnak Temple, the Valley of Kings, and Luxor Temple are a must-visit on the west and east banks of the River Nile.
- Edfu & Esna: These two are major shore excursions that are usually part of the Nile cruises. Here people can visit the famous temple of Edfu.
- Kom Ombo: This city is famous for the Kom Ombo temple and unique crocodile museum; people can visit during the cruise rides if they have the site on their itinerary.
- Cairo and Giza: On their land exploration, first-time visitors can see the Great Pyramid of Giza and the GEM, the recently opened central museum in the capital, Cairo.
- Red Sea Resorts: Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada are two major cities with the most luxurious resorts. Here travelers can also enjoy sea activities.
Must-Try Food Items
Egyptian cuisine is flavorful and has an influence of Middle Eastern Arab spices that sets the food apart from the rest of the cuisines. First-time travelers should enjoy Koshari, Falafel (ta’ameya), ful medames, shawarma, and molokhia, as these are some famous dishes of Egypt.If you are taking a Movenpick Nile cruise, then for sure you can enjoy the flavors of Egypt on open-air decks on the Nile River boats. That makes the dining experience more memorable and exotic. As you feel the Nile's cool breeze with every bite of Egyptian food, it develops a sense of deep cultural exploration and adventure on your Egypt tour.
Safety Tips For First-Time Travellers to Egypt
- Only choose certified Egypt-based cruising companies for booking Egypt tours.
- Check reviews and ratings to find the best travel partner.
- Get all booking confirmations via email before making payments.
- Check the terms and conditions of the travel companies to ensure a safe and guided tour.
- Follow the instructions of your experienced tour guides and limit interaction with locals.
- Do not take travel advice from untrained locals; verify the routes with Google Maps or travel agents before taking them.
- Carry your important stuff and documents with you in a small carry bag.