Whether you’re an avid history buff or simply seeking adventure and excitement, taking an Egypt day tour lets you experience the many benefits of this incredible destination. This land is best known for the Pyramids of Giza and ancient ruins. It also allows you to try the local cuisine.
Although travelling to this unique country can be exciting, you must also know what to do and avoid. Besides ensuring your safety and enjoyment, it will help you respect the locals’ customs.
If you’re ready to maximise your Egypt day tour while staying safe and respectful, this article will enumerate what to do and avoid when visiting this nation for the first time.
1. Learn Some Arabic Words
You can avoid feeling overwhelmed by certain aspects of Egyptian culture by learning some Arabic phrases. Although people speak English in many tourist spots, knowing how to say “hello” (as-salām ‘Alaykum), “thank you” (shukrān), and ask for directions to the restroom (el-ḥammām fain?) in Egyptian-Arabic can make you feel more comfortable and show locals that you appreciate their country and culture.
2. Apply for an E-visa or Organise upon Arrival
For some people, getting an e-visa costs the same as buying a visa when you arrive at your destination. However, if you purchase one when you arrive, you must pay in cash, and the amount is usually 18.19 Pounds Sterling or 20.14 Euros.
3. Dress Conservatively
When travelling to Egypt for day tours, you must wear modest clothes. Women should conceal their shoulders and knees and may also cover their hair in some locations. Additionally, solo female travellers should dress modestly and travel with a group or guide. Meanwhile, although men can wear shorts and short sleeves, they should cover up at night.
4. Drink Bottled Water and Avoid Chlorine
Although tap water in Egypt is safe for showering and brushing teeth, never drink it due to the high chlorination levels. Instead, drink bottled water and check the seal before buying. You can also try Fayrouz, a popular local carbonated malt drink. It’s available in pear and pineapple flavours.
5. Don’t Carry Much Cash but Prepare to Tip
Tipping is typical in Egypt, with service workers and taxi drivers expecting a gratuity. There are also unique situations where tipping a police officer or a camel owner may be expected.
6. Offer Money and Gifts with Your Right Hand
In Egypt, offering things with your left hand is rude, so use your right hand when handing or receiving money or goods.
7. Differentiate Bills and Prices
Restaurants and hotels have fixed prices and bills for purchases, and you should expect to pay a service charge and a sales tax. These charges can add up to 25% of the total cost. However, once you’ve accomplished your Egypt day tour, travellers don’t need to pay an additional departure tax, as officials already include it in your plane ticket.
8. Prepare to Haggle with Prices
In Egypt, haggling over prices is common, and locals are friendly. If you’re uninterested in buying, you can respectfully decline by placing your hand on your chest and shaking your head.
9. Let Locals Guide the Gastronomic Experience
Egypt has a diverse food scene, including high-end restaurants and street food. Locals know where to find good food, and street food is safe if it’s hot or you can peel it. Also, don’t use your left hand to eat or pass food; expect tipping besides the service charge and tax.
10. Expect Different Opening Hours during Ramadan
During Ramadan in Egypt, cultural customs include fasting from sunrise to sunset. Although it may be unideal for non-Muslim tourists, it lets them experience a different side of the country and enjoy celebratory feasts at night.
Conclusion
Booking an Egypt day tour can be exciting and a perfect time to see stunning sights, but that’s not enough to enjoy your stay. You can stay safe and dodge embarrassing situations by knowing the best and worst practices and learning the local language.
If you need to book an exciting Egypt day tour for your next travel destination, visit the Tourz Store! We’re ready to help you explore top-rated tours, restaurants, and hotels worldwide for a memorable holiday. Contact us now!
