what to pack

clothing

November weather in Egypt is pleasant, with mild to warm days and cooler evenings, particularly in Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime activities, along with a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Modest clothing is recommended, especially when visiting religious sites. For women, tops that cover the shoulders and skirts or pants that reach the knees are ideal, while men may want to wear long pants and shirts with sleeves

welcome egypt travel tips

Footwear

With many historical sites and bustling streets to explore, comfortable walking shoes are essential. Sandals are suitable for city tours, while closed-toe shoes provide extra comfort and protection for sites with rugged terrain.

Health & Wellness

Bring any necessary personal medications, along with a few basics:

Pain relievers and stomach remedies: These can help with minor discomforts from adjusting to new foods or climates.
Sunscreen: Egyptian sun can be strong, even in November. Protect your skin with a high-SPF sunscreen.
Mosquito repellent: Particularly useful for evenings near the Nile River and in more rural areas.
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes: Handy for when access to soap and water is limited.
Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated, but be sure to drink onlybottled or filtered water.

Understanding Egyptian Culture and Customs:

Egypt is known for its rich history and welcoming spirit, but respecting cultural norms will make your experience even more enjoyable.

Greetings and Social Etiquette:

Greetings are usually warm and friendly. A common greeting is “Salaam Alaikum” (“Peace be upon you”), with “Wa Alaikum Salaam” as the reply.
Handshakes are common but may vary in formality depending on the situation; men and women typically do not shake hands unless initiated by the woman.

Respectful Dress: Egypt is a socially conservative country. While tourist areas are more relaxed, modest dress is highly appreciated. When visiting mosques or churches, women may need to cover their heads, and both men and women are advised to wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
Photography Etiquette:

It’s always polite to ask for permission before taking photos of locals, especially in rural areas or religious settings. Some sites may have restrictions on photography, so look for posted guidelines.
Certain monuments and tombs do not allow photography or charge a fee for cameras. Check ahead to avoid surprises.

Public Behavior:

Public displays of affection are uncommon and canbe considered inappropriate in Egypt.
Respecting religious customs, such as refraining from eating or drinking publicly during times like Ramadan, is highly appreciated. Although this may not apply in November, awareness is always valued.

General Tips for Navigating Local Life:

Bargaining: In markets (souks), bargaining is expected and can be a fun experience. Start by offering about half of the initial price and work your way up to afair deal.
Language: While many people speak English in tourist areas, learning a few Arabic phrases like “Shukran” (“Thank you”) or “La Shukran” (“No, thank you”) can go a long way.