Egypt is an unforgettable experience, filled with ancient temples, pharaohs' footsteps, and vast deserts. Backpacking through Egypt is undoubtedly one of the greatest adventures you can have. While it has its challenges, the country offers countless unique experiences that will wow any traveler. Here’s how to make the most of your trip, including where to stay, what to see, and how to navigate the cultural landscape.
The Pyramids of Giza are a must-see landmark in Egypt.
Is Egypt Safe for Travelers?
Whether Egypt is safe depends on your definition. For the most part, Egypt is safe for travelers, though it can be uncomfortable and frustrating. Even seasoned travelers may encounter discomforts and sticky situations. If you are respectful of the culture and religion, you should be fine. However, expect potential frustrations from street harassment and overwhelming situations like crossing the street during rush hour.
Personal experiences vary, but respecting the culture, dressing modestly, and avoiding drawing attention to yourself will greatly improve your experience. Remember to have travel insurance whenever you’re adventuring across the world.
Essential Things to Know Before You Go
If you plan on diving fully into the Egyptian experience, it can be vastly different than any country you’ve been to before. Even having visited other Middle Eastern and Islamic countries before, Egypt felt like a different level of travel. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
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- Visa: Most countries are able to get a visa on arrival when landing at the airport. citizens, you can obtain a single-entry 30-day tourist visa on arrival for $25 USD. I’d recommend just bringing some cash and getting it at the airport.
- Currency: Dollars, Euros, and British Pounds are useful. While some places do accept credit cards, keep small amounts of cash on you. Egypt is quite affordable, so even heading out for the day with $20 worth of Egyptian pounds meant that I could cover all daily expenses and have some left over. Carrying large amounts of cash or flashing what you have can be a bad idea.
- Connectivity: Staying connected while traveling Egypt is essential. I use Saily eSIM to keep me online during my travels, ensuring that I have internet from the moment I land to the moment I leave. Navigating directions, coordinating travel plans with new hostel friends, booking a ride, and so on - having an eSIM makes life that much easier when you’re on the road.
- Language: The official language of Egypt is Arabic, and it will be helpful to know a few Arabic phrases. I’d say there is a huge benefit of knowing Arabic when traveling through Egypt, although it’d be hard to recommend you to learn Arabic on a whim. It’s a challenging language, but showing even a little proficiency in the language can go a long way. That being said, most tourist destinations will have an abundance of English speakers.
- Dress Modestly: Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, and it is advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees, and women may consider carrying a scarf to cover their heads when entering mosques or religious places.
- Respect Islamic Customs: Egypt is home to a significant Muslim population, and it is important to be respectful of Islamic customs. During the holy month of Ramadan, be mindful of those who are fasting, and avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
- Use Your Right Hand: In many Middle Eastern cultures, the left hand is considered unclean, so it’s important to use the right hand for eating, giving and receiving items, and gestures of greeting or respect.
- Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Public displays of romantic affection, such as kissing and hugging, are not commonly practiced in public in Egypt. For simplicity’s sake, just don’t do it.
- Ask Before Taking Photos: Always ask for permission before taking photos of individuals, especially women and religious figures.
- Cultural Sensitivity: It is important to approach conversations and interactions with cultural sensitivity. Avoid controversial topics such as politics and religion unless initiated, or even when initiated.
- Tipping: Tipping is a common practice in Egypt, especially in the service industry. It is customary to tip hotel staff, tour guides, and drivers. A small tip is appreciated for services such as carrying luggage, providing directions, or serving meals.
Getting To and Around Egypt
The best way to get to Egypt is by flying into its capital city, Cairo. Other airports that might have cheap international flights are Alexandria and Sharm-el-Sheikh. However, with Cairo being an essential stop with some otherworldly places to visit, I’d recommend any first-time traveler to Egypt to start there. If you’re on a budget, use Skiplagged to find the cheapest flights.
Once you're in Egypt, the best way to travel around largely depends on your preferences, budget, and the specific destinations you plan to visit.
- Domestic Flights: Egypt has a well-established domestic flight network, making it convenient to travel between major cities such as Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Alexandria, and Sharm El Sheikh.
- Buses: Bus services are available throughout Egypt, connecting various cities and towns. While buses are the most economical option, they take much longer to reach destinations compared to other modes of transportation. Go Bus is the main bus that I used in Egypt, as it was easy to book tickets online.
- Trains: Egypt’s railway system connects many cities and towns, offering an affordable and comfortable mode of transportation. The overnight sleeper trains between Cairo and Luxor/Aswan are a popular choice for travelers who prefer to cover longer distances while sleeping.
Accommodation: Hostels in Egypt
Accommodation in Egypt varies from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Despite there being many travelers in Egypt, the majority of them weren’t backpackers. Here are a few recommended hostels:
- Dahab Hostel (Cairo): Affordable, with dorms under $10 and privates around $20. It has a great rooftop, free breakfast, and helpful staff.
- Rafiki Hostel (Dahab): Organizes tons of social activities and has a pool to relax in.
- Ithaka Hostel (Alexandria): A great hostel right along the Corniche with beautiful common areas and kind staff.
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Tried-and-True Backpacking Route
There’s a tried-and-true backpacking route for Egypt that I’d recommend following for first-timers:
- Cairo (3 days): Visit the Egyptian Museum, Khan el Khalili district, and Saladin’s Citadel. A day tour will help you visit Memphis, Saqqara, and Giza all in one go.
- Luxor (2 days): Visit Luxor Temple and Karnak Temple. Take a day tour to Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut, and the other temples of the Nile’s West Bank.
- Aswan: Visit the Philae Temple, Nubian villages, and Abu Simbel.
Most travelers visiting Egypt will stick to these three highlights, but there is much more to see. From Cairo, one can detour to Siwa Oasis, a remote hidden gem known for its natural beauty and ancient ruins. Another potential detour from Cairo is a camping trip to the White Desert, characterized by its otherworldly landscapes of chalk rock formations. On a clear night, the stargazing here is breathtaking. From Cairo, or Siwa Oasis, one can head up to Alexandria. The coastal city was great to visit if you’d like to see another side of Egypt’s urban areas. It had a lively atmosphere that was more relaxed than that of Cairo.
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Exploring Luxor was a definite highlight. This is the Karnak Temple.
Detailed Hostel Recommendations in Cairo
Cairo offers a range of hostels catering to different travel styles. Here are some of the best:
Sunset Hostel
- Rating: 9.6
- Dorm: From $7.61/night
- Private Room: From $15.97/night
- Description: Situated near Tahrir Square, Sunset Hotel Cairo features accommodation with a shared lounge and a terrace. Free WiFi is offered throughout the property.
Layla Hostel
- Rating: 9.8
- Dorm: From $13.74/night
- Private Room: From $44.10/night
- Description: Step into Villa Layla, an oasis of warmth and character nestled in the heart of Cairo. This beautifully restored classic-style hostel blends old-world charm with modern comfort.
Pyramids Planet Hotel
- Rating: 9.7
- Dorm: From $9.97/night
- Private Room: From $32.00/night
- Description: Wake up to the awe-inspiring sight of the Great Pyramids. This hostel is a gateway to one of the world's most stunning ancient sights.
Meramees Hostel
- Rating: 9.5
- Dorm: From $11.83/night
- Private Room: From $20.52/night
- Description: Nestled in the heart of Cairo, Meramees Hostel offers a cozy setup and a killer location. It’s the perfect launchpad for your city adventures.
Green Hostel
- Rating: 9.1
- Dorm: From $5.00/night
- Private Room: From $19.49/night
- Description: Green Hostel in Cairo offers a perfect base for those wanting to explore the city's vibrant culture and history.
Madina Hostel
- Rating: 9.5
- Dorm: From $9.70/night
- Private Room: From $37.58/night
- Description: Right in the heart of bustling Downtown Cairo, Madina Hostel is more than just a place to sleep-it's a doorway to the city's vibrant pulse.
Tahrir Square Hostel
- Rating: 9.4
- Dorm: From $10.80/night
- Private Room: From $31.05/night
- Description: Located in the vibrant heart of Cairo, Tahrir Square Hostel offers an unmatched view of the iconic Tahrir Square.
Landmark Hostel
- Rating: 9.3
- Dorm: From $8.68/night
- Private Room: From $15.45/night
- Description: Located in the vibrant center of Cairo, Landmark Hostel offers an ideal blend of comfort, convenience, and a lively social atmosphere.
Jessy View Inn
- Rating: 9.3
- Dorm: From $19.67/night
- Private Room: From $15.00/night
- Description: Jessy View Inn in Cairo has everything a traveler could ask for, including a great view of the pyramids.
Freedom Hostel
- Rating: 9.3
- Dorm: From $7.67/night
- Private Room: From $16.82/night
- Description: Nestled in the heart of Cairo, Freedom Hostel turns up the charm with its cozy setup and killer location.
Cheers Hostel
- Rating: 9.2
- Dorm: From $9.85/night
- Private Room: From $16.00/night
- Description: Right in the heart of Cairo, Cheers Hostel sets itself apart with its vibrant atmosphere and prime location.
Rhala Hostel Egypt
- Rating: 9.0
- Dorm: From $9.01/night
- Private Room: From $17.28/night
- Description: Just steps from Tahrir Square and The Egyptian Museum, Rhala Hostel Egypt stands out as the best youth hostel in Cairo.
There were hardly any crowds at most of the sites in Egypt.
Egypt Itineraries
Backpacking Egypt 10 Day Itinerary #1: From Cairo to Abu Simbel
This itinerary is perfect for those purely interested in visiting the Ancient tombs and temples of Egypt. Starting in Cairo, spend a few days getting acquainted with the bustling metropolis. Make sure to visit the Egyptian Museum, and pay extra to see the rooms with the mummies.
Backpacking Egypt 3 Week Itinerary #2: The Red Sea & Dahab
Realistically, if you are diving a bit, you can’t hit every town on this itinerary, but it will give you some inspiration. Make your way to the hippy town of Dahab.
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Backpacking Egypt 4 Week Itinerary #3: The Red Sea and Tomb Exploring
This is the best itinerary for first-time Egypt visitors, who also like to dive and go on a few rugged adventures. Start in Cairo, where you can spend a couple of days exploring the top attractions in Cairo. Take an 8-hour bus to Dahab.
Embark on your Egyptian adventure with confidence, armed with the knowledge of the best hostels, essential travel tips, and must-see destinations. Whether you're exploring ancient tombs, diving in the Red Sea, or navigating bustling cities, Egypt promises an unforgettable experience.
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