We offer several trips to Egypt, with different itineraries. However, we are often asked frequent questions regarding what to prepare. From accommodations to tipping Guides, you can find the answers here!
Click on the question you're interested in to view the answer. If you can't find what you're looking for, please reach out to our Customer Support team here.
Visa + Passport
What information do I put down on my Visa Application?
What information do I put down on my Visa Application?
The following information can be used on your Visa application.
Host Type: Tour Company
Host Name: Intrepid Middle East
Host Phone Number: +20 109 6811 067
Host Fax Number: N/A
Host Email: EgyptSales@intrepidtravel.com
Host Address: 7th Floor, 3 Abu El Feda St, Zamalek, Cairo
Why is my passport required for this trip?
Why is my passport required for this trip?
Any itinerary at TrovaTrip that has a domestic flight - a flight within the country you're visiting - will require a passport in order for our Trip Operator to book your spot on that flight.
If I choose to obtain a visa upon arrival, can I pay by card, or does it need to be cash?
If I choose to obtain a visa upon arrival, can I pay by card, or does it need to be cash?
If you choose to obtain a visa upon arrival, you will need to pay in cash.
Culture + Safety
Does Egypt require me to dress modestly?
Does Egypt require me to dress modestly?
If possible, it will be appreciated if your clothing covers your shoulders and knees, though there will be no locations you are taken on our itineraries that will require this to permit entry.
We'd recommend you bring something to cover your hair, just in case.
Do I need to be mindful of modesty when wearing swimsuits in Egypt, such as at hotel pools?
Do I need to be mindful of modesty when wearing swimsuits in Egypt, such as at hotel pools?
If your trip includes a hotel with a pool, you are encouraged to choose more modest swimsuit options.
Should I be mindful when venturing out on my own for dinner? Is it generally okay to find nearby restaurants, or is dining at the hotel recommended?
Should I be mindful when venturing out on my own for dinner? Is it generally okay to find nearby restaurants, or is dining at the hotel recommended?
Travelers are encouraged to ask their guide for safe dining recommendations. That said, groups regularly go out on their own without issue!
Activities
Will the armed guard be present in the evenings after daily tours, or only during scheduled itinerary activities?
Will the armed guard be present in the evenings after daily tours, or only during scheduled itinerary activities?
The armed guard will only be present when the guide, driver, and guard are accompanying the group during scheduled activities.
Meals
Can I drink the tap water?
Can I drink the tap water?
Tap water should not be used for drinking or brushing teeth.
Should I bring a refillable water bottle, or will bottled water be provided?
Should I bring a refillable water bottle, or will bottled water be provided?
You will be drinking a lot of bottled water, but bringing a reusable water bottle is still recommended!
Accommodations + Transportation
If I've purchased a single supplement, do I get a private train car on the overnight train?
If I've purchased a single supplement, do I get a private train car on the overnight train?
Yes, if you have a private room for the duration of the trip you will also have a private train car on the overnight sleeper train.
For the domestic flight, is a checked bag included for each Traveler?
For the domestic flight, is a checked bag included for each Traveler?
Yes, 1 checked bag for each traveler weighing equal to or less than 50lbs (23kg) is included.
Is there wifi on the overnight train from Cairo to Aswan/Cairo to Luxor?
Is there wifi on the overnight train from Cairo to Aswan/Cairo to Luxor?
There is not, so we'd recommend you come prepared with your favorites pre-downloaded.
What are the sleeping arrangements on the overnight felucca boat?
What are the sleeping arrangements on the overnight felucca boat?
There are two levels, but there are no cabins or enclosed areas. You will be sleeping in the lower level, where there is a shared sleeping space. If you'd like, you can also choose to sleep on the upper level, under the stars!
You will be provided with a blanket and pillow, and you can bring a sleeping bag if you'd like. During the cooler months, a sleeping bag can be rented locally.
The felucca has one shared bathroom.
What is the overnight train like?
What is the overnight train like?
Your accommodation will be in a cozy yet compact two-bunk bed cabin. Despite the limited quarters, the cabin is equipped with air conditioning, a small washbasin, a mirror, a power socket, and a convertible lower bed that transforms into chairs and a table.
Shared bathrooms, one per carriage, are part of the experience. Bedding is provided, and you'll keep your luggage within the cabin. It's recommended to lock the compartment doors from the inside during the night to safeguard your personal belongings.
Please be aware that the train lacks common spaces, so both dinner and breakfast are served directly in your cabin.
Are day-use rooms used at hotels during this trip? Why?
Are day-use rooms used at hotels during this trip? Why?
Depending on your itinerary, you may have access to a day-use room. These rooms are available for a few hours during the day—usually late morning to afternoon—so you can rest and freshen up before your overnight sleeper train, making your journey more comfortable. Typically, 4–5 travelers will share a day-use room.
Do hotels generally allow luggage storage, especially given limited luggage space on trains?
Do hotels generally allow luggage storage, especially given limited luggage space on trains?
Yes, hotels typically allow luggage storage; however, you should be sure to follow the recommended luggage guidelines.
Currency
Is USD accepted in Egypt, or is local currency required?
Is USD accepted in Egypt, or is local currency required?
The majority of places in Egypt only accept Egyptian pounds.
Are there any tipping customs travelers should be aware of?
Are there any tipping customs travelers should be aware of?
Travelers should be prepared to tip more frequently than they may be accustomed to, particularly bathroom attendants.
Please refer to the Trip Prep guide here for additional information about Egypt.
