Kemetale Frequently Asked Questions

Having traveled to and lived in Egypt, we have found that even during the “Arab Spring” and political unrest, the people of Egypt are kind, helpful and peaceful. Always check the news and your country authority on travel to get advice and needed information to confirm the appropriateness of travel at the time you choose. Don’t be alarmed from the prominent presence of police, tourist police, and army wherever you go, this is for the safety of all. Egypt is very keen on safety as tourism is a major income to the country.

Many women travel alone in Egypt and find it safe. The police, tourist police, and army are always close by and the Egyptians themselves are generally safe and will try to protect solo travelers. Although the chances of being confronted are almost negligible, please ensure that you take the same precautions that you would anywhere else and do not be tempted to walk in deserted areas alone. You may receive some invitations, which overall are innocent, do not accept any of these from strangers as you wouldn’t anywhere else you travel to.

For American, Canadian, Australian, British and most European passport holders can receive a visa upon arrival at the airport. There are additional nationalities that can receive a visa upon arrival. Please check your requirements for travel with your local Egyptian consulate or embassy.

Varying health organizations and countries have recommendations that change for all countries around the world. There are no specific requirements. Always check the news and your local authority on recent or new developments prior to traveling anywhere.

In general Egypt has great temperatures throughout the year and has varying regions that are more seasonal than others. Check the various destination pages for general best times and average weather conditions.

Ramadan is the ninth month of Islamic Calendar with the beginning and end marked by the astronomical new moon, so it always falls on the same day of the Islamic Calendar (a lunar calendar), but the date on Gregorian Calendar (a solar calendar) varies from year to year. It is a month of fasting, prayer, and introspection, so Muslims abstain from ingesting any substance from sunrise to sunset every day.

During Ramadan, the general pace of life in Egypt slows down compared to that in normal days. Shops, museums, and historical attractions officially close earlier before sunset. Almost all Muslims try to get home or to a restaurant in time for the “Iftar” (meal to break the fast), which is at sunset every day.

Some restaurants and cafés open only after sunset and may stop serving alcoholic beverages during this month, while almost all hotels operate normally, including their restaurants and bars serving meals and alcoholic drinks as usual, as many tourists love to explore Egypt during this special month.

Houses, mosques and alleyways are specially decorated with “Fanous Ramadan” (special Ramadan lanterns), creating a magical atmosphere. Some hotels may hold “celebrations and music performances” until late at night, as the city comes to life again from sunset until dawn.

Thought a little inconvenient as it may be, visiting Egypt during Ramadan is truly a fantastic way to discover an important part of the Egyptian culture and enjoy the special atmosphere pervading throughout the country. The culture and the festivities make for a uniquely rewarding experience.

Alcohol is permitted in Egypt. Usually you are allowed 2 liters (2 bottles) of spirits, there may be promotions or further allowances, it’s always good to check from your departing country. There are duty free shops at Cairo international and most major airports in Egypt where you are permitted to purchased alcohol up to 48 hours after your arrival. There are also in city duty free shops, check online for Egypt duty free locations. There are local alcoholic wines, beers and spirits which are purchasable throughout Egypt. There are many bars, clubs and restaurants that have alcohol menus. Please note that the public consumption of alcohol is forbidden.

Depending on your unique travel style, what you want to get out of your trip and what your unique Egyptian tale entails, we will conceive the most value and unique travel experience for you. Generally, Egypt is vast in terms of experiences and you can spend as short as a few hours in a city, town or region to a week or more and still discover and experience new things.

We will provide details on any specific attire required based on the tale we have crafted for you. Generally, Egypt is moderate with regards to the attire.

Yes. Most places accept credit and debit cards, especially Visa and Mastercard. As for American Express and Discover, it is less acceptable. You are advised to carry cash when shopping in the many street markets (souks) or in small villages or towns.

Almost every bank has an ATM outside it, or just inside the front doors. Many shopping malls have standalone ATM’s and you can also find them located on some sidewalks with high foot traffic. Airports and railway stations also have ATM’s as do the larger tour company offices and gas stations.

Egypt has a voltage supply of 220V, and the plugs are the 2-round pin type that is common throughout Europe (except the UK). Most devices can be used with an adapter such as laptops, mobile phones and tablets. Make sure you read about the device you wish to charge or plug in for use as to ensure that it can accept the voltage.

Yes. Local alcohol is available. Beer wine and spirits. Imports are available for purchase from duty free shops up to 48 Hours after arrival.

It is customary to provide gratuity between 2%-5%. It is not compulsory. Rewarding exceptional service and the act of giving is always a positive gesture.

Yes, there are many banks and exchange offices throughout Egypt. Its recommended to exchange what’s needed when you arrive at the airport.

It is highly recommended to drink only bottled water. The water in Egypt is safe but various bacteria effect people differently.