The Top 6 Things I Learned Traveling in Egypt

I have been dreaming of a trip to Egypt since I was a little girl. My Dad took me to see the Tutankhamen exhibit at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art when I was around 10 years old, and I've wanted to go ever since.

In May of this year I had the good fortune, as the owner of a travel agency, to be invited to Egypt on a trip designed to teach agency owners more about how to construct vacations for our clients. Although I already knew great deal about planning travel to Egypt, I learned a lot more about how to make my clients' trips better.

Here are the six most important things you should know when planning a trip to Egypt.

1. There is a lot more to Egypt than ancient temples, tombs and pyramids

Many people go to Egypt just to see the famous pyramids, temples, and tombs, and many trips focus almost exclusively on them. If that is what you are looking for, great!

But many of my clients would rather incorporate some variety into their vacations. There is a lot to choose from. I can combine all of the ancient Egyptian sites with unique, enriching experiences like:

• walking tours of modern day Cairo, Aswan, and Luxor

• a visit to a local village

• visits to modern art museums

• a cooking class

• visits to local bazaars, food and spice markets

• dinner with locals in their home

• a walking tour of Islamic and Coptic Cairo including mosques

• a hot air balloon ride

• a nighttime light and/or dinner show at an ancient site when it is illuminated

• visits to local artisan's workshops

• and more!

2. There are lots of different ways to structure a trip to Egypt

Most of my clients want some time in Cairo and a Nile cruise, but there are other options that can be included like beach time, as well as other cities and villages. What to include in your trip depends on your interests, so it is good to work with an expert like me who has local contacts and experience designing trips to Egypt.

3. Transportation in Egypt is challenging

It is not a simple matter to get around Egypt. Visas are needed, and flights, trains, and ground transportation logistics are not ideal, so it's best to work with an expert like me to figure out what is best for you and make the experience as smooth and safe as possible.

4. Cairo is fairly safe, but . . .

You need to know a few things about where to go, how to get there, and how to interact with the locals. I prepare my clients for what to expect and how to stay safe.

5. Acceptable attire (especially for women) needs to be considered

Most Egyptian women cover their entire bodies (legs, arms, and heads) even in weather well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. In Cairo and at popular tourist sites, many people can be seen in skirts to their knees and sleeveless tops, but it is very rare to see even tourists wearing shorts or short skirts.

In rural areas, and away from tourist sites, it is less common to see any women with arms or legs uncovered. If you are wearing a sleeveless top, shorts, or a short skirt, be prepared to receive a lot of unwanted attention and looks. If that makes you uncomfortable, I suggest covering up.

Women must cover themselves completely (legs, arms, and head) when entering mosques.

6. Logistics can be overwhelming

There are a lot of other logistics to be aware of when traveling to Egypt, including the weather, time of year, Islamic holidays, pacing, food, drinking water, negotiating with salespeople, currency, visas, and more. But, if you work with an expert like me, I advise you on all of this and make sure you trip is smooth, easy, and stress free!

—Daria Dimitroff, July 2025

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Contact me to customize your next trip. My specialities are bespoke luxury vacations, group trips, and exclusive cruise experiences.

Booking through me is better than reserving on your own because I’m an expert. I do this every day and have local contacts all over the world. I provide a stress-free experience and save you time. I give you personalized advice. I get you a better value, including perks. I have clout and connections. I customize your trip, and I’m a real human who delivers exceptional service and takes care of you before, during, and after your journey.

You can reach me at daria@journeysofalifetime.biz or 415-939-5773 or schedule a call here.