Saint Catherine's Monastery

Entry requirements vary by passport; check your specific requirements on the Egypt destination page at Yoogo.

Egypt uses the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Cash is widely preferred, particularly at markets, smaller restaurants, and heritage sites. ATMs are readily available in Cairo, Luxor, and other major tourist cities, and larger hotels and chain restaurants typically accept Visa and Mastercard. It is worth carrying small-denomination notes for tips and everyday purchases.

Egypt's main tourist areas, including Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and the Red Sea resorts, are generally considered safe for visitors and are heavily policed. Tourist Police officers are present at major attractions and can be reached on 126. As with any destination, travellers should remain aware of their surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and follow current advice from their government's travel advisory service before and during their trip.

Egypt offers a range of transport options. Overnight sleeper trains connect Cairo with Luxor and Aswan, making for a practical and scenic journey between sites. Domestic flights serve major cities and save considerable time across long distances. In Cairo, the metro is affordable and efficient for navigating the city centre, while ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Careem operate widely. For inter-city travel, private drivers and organised tours are also popular choices.

October through April offers the most comfortable temperatures, with daytime highs typically ranging from 20-28 degrees Celsius across most of the country, making it ideal for sightseeing at outdoor monuments. Summer months (June to August) are intensely hot, particularly in Upper Egypt around Luxor and Aswan, where temperatures regularly exceed 40 degrees Celsius. The Red Sea coast is pleasant year-round for beach and diving holidays.

Arabic is the official language of Egypt. Egyptian Arabic is the local dialect and is widely understood across the Arab world. In tourist areas, hotels, and major attractions, English is commonly spoken by staff and guides. French is also understood in some hotels and cultural institutions. Learning a few basic Arabic greetings, such as 'marhaba' (hello) and 'shukran' (thank you), is warmly appreciated by locals.

Most travel health authorities recommend that visitors are up to date with routine vaccinations, including hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus, before travelling to Egypt. Drinking tap water is not recommended; stick to sealed bottled water throughout your trip. Sun protection, including high-SPF sunscreen and a hat, is essential given the intense sun, particularly when visiting open-air monuments. Consult a travel health clinic at least four to six weeks before departure for personalised advice.