Traveler FAQ

Questions we get every week.

If yours isn't here, write to us — and it probably will be next week.

Is Egypt safe to visit right now?+

Yes. The major tourist regions — Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, the Nile valley and the Red Sea coast — are well-policed and have been steady for years. We monitor US State Department advisories closely and adjust itineraries when required.

Do I need a visa?+

Most US and EU travelers need a single-entry tourist visa, available as an e-Visa online or on arrival at Cairo airport for around $25 USD. We send detailed instructions roughly 60 days out.

When is the best time to travel?+

October through April. November, February and March are our favorite months — daytime highs in the mid-70s°F, cool nights, clear skies. Summer (June–August) is hot in Upper Egypt but excellent for the Red Sea coast.

How physically demanding are the tours?+

Most of our standard itineraries are moderate. Expect 4–6 miles of walking on temple days, often on uneven stone. Most travelers are between 45 and 75; we adjust pace and accommodations accordingly.

What's the dress code?+

Modest, comfortable, breathable. Lightweight long pants or skirts and short-sleeved shirts work everywhere. A scarf is useful for mosque visits and for women to drape on heads.

Do I need to tip?+

Tipping (baksheesh) is woven into Egyptian travel. We provide a detailed envelope-and-amount sheet before departure, and your trip leader handles all group tips out of a pooled fund.

What about money?+

USD and Euros are widely accepted in tourist areas. ATMs are reliable in cities. We recommend traveling with a small amount of small US bills for tipping.

Is the water safe to drink?+

Bottled water only — we supply it throughout. Ice in good hotels is fine; we'd skip it elsewhere.

Will there be Wi-Fi?+

Yes, in all hotels and on most cruise boats. We also issue eSIMs to travelers who want continuous data.

What's your cancellation policy?+

Deposits are fully refundable for 30 days. Final payment is due 90 days before departure. After that, our standard cancellation schedule applies — full details in your booking contract and at /terms.