Egypt Travel Guide

What To Expect

Language: There are several languages spoken in Egypt, but the primary language is Egyptian Arabic, also known as Masri/Masry.

Currency: The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP).

Credit Cards & ATMs: In Egypt, you will find that the trendier clubs, bars, restaurants, shops, and hotels will take major debit and credit cards. Some shops will have a sign near their entrance that tells you whether or not they accept foreign cards. To be safe, it’s always worth asking a cashier or waiter if cards are accepted before ordering or purchasing anything. If you’re looking to carry some cash during your visit, you can find many ATMs throughout big cities like Cairo and Alexandria. They are less common in smaller cities and almost impossible to find in rural areas.

Plugs: In Egypt, the power plugs are type C and F. The standard voltage is 220 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter (make sure it has surge protection) and using a converter for hairdryers and hot tools.

Safety: After the revolution of 2011, tourism drastically dropped in Egypt. However, In recent years, the political situation in Egypt has stabilized, bringing higher tourism rates. Overall, it is a safe country, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Safety depends on where you’re visiting. The northern half of Sinai is unstable, so it is best to avoid it. If visiting the pyramids or other large tourist attractions, play it safe by taking a tour or hiring a private guide as I did. Check out my tips for your first trip to Egypt before traveling!