Egypt

Australian passport holders require at least six months validity beyond your intended stay. A visa is required for Australian passport holders and due to a new online application system, will no longer be available at the border. Visas must be applied for either online or through the Egyptian Consulate. Due to changing circumstances, be sure to keep up through the DFAT website.

For more information and for holders of other passports, please refer to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website for the latest travel advice.

The Egyption Pound (EGP) is the local currency in Egypt. One Australian dollar buys approximately 5 EGP.

The official language of Egypt is Literary Arabic. English and French are widely spoken.

220-240 volts and uses a European plug type

GMT+2 (8 hours behind Sydney)

As a predominantly Muslim country, conservative dress is recommended. In beach areas, shorts and casual beach attire is acceptable. In cities and religious sites, conservative dress code is recommended. Wear long trousers for men and pants or skirts for women, plus sleeved shirts to cover the shoulders. Fully covered shoes in cities is recommended as the streets can be muddy and/or dirty.

Egypt has a hot, desert climage. It is a very dry county except on the Mediterranean coast which receives more rain in winter. Coastally, temperatures vary from 10’C – 23’C in winter and 17’C to 32’C in Summer. In land more, summers can soar over 40’C.

22°C – 29°C depending on time of year.

35 EGP (Approx $5 USD) to be paid in EGP.

Tipping is a large part of culture in Egypt to subsidise low pays – known as a “Backsheesh” and tipping is customary on good service. This does not mean you have to tip if the service is not adequate and you should not feel forced into it. As a rule, 10% of a restaurant bill, 3 – 5 EGP for a hotel porter or other service. 25 – 50pt for a bathroom attendant. It is not customary to tip a taxi driver, as usually they factor their tip in to the agreed price. When in doubt, 10% of the bill is more than adequate. In hotels, leaving an envelope at reception for staff is customary, and they will divide the tip later.

You may also find young children holding their hands out on the street. Refrain from giving them money as you are encouraging this pattern of behaviour. If you wish to give to charity in Egypt, there are NFP Organisations that support children in Egypt and would gladly accept your donation.