Egypt: Boats & Bazaars - 8 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the age range for this tour?

  This tour is designed for travelers aged 18 to 39 years old.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The tour operates with a minimum of 1 and a maximum of 18 participants.

• What type of accommodation is provided on the tour?

  Accommodation includes 5 nights in simple, clean, locally-run hotels (twin-share) and 2 nights on an overnight sleeper train. Rooms in hotels will have an en suite bathroom and air conditioning. Note that rooming requests of any kind cannot be taken where multi-share accommodations are used.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 4 dinners.

• What are the main sights and cultural experiences included in the tour price?

  Included activities feature a guided tour of the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, an orientation walk through Cairo's Khan el-Khalili bazaar, a felucca sailing excursion on the Nile, a visit to Kom Ombo Temple, a cycle and Funtasia Project visit in Luxor, and a boat ride to a Nubian Village with a traditional meal in Aswan.

• Are there any optional activities available to enhance the experience?

  Yes, optional activities are available, including an Islamic and Coptic Cairo Tour, visits to the Egyptian Museum, exploring pyramids, and Memphis and Sakkara near Cairo. In Aswan, you can visit the Souk, experience the Philae Temple Sound and Light Show, or take an excursion to the Temple of Abu Simbel. In Luxor, options include a West Bank guided tour (Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut, Colossi of Memnon), visiting King Tutankhamen's Tomb, exploring the local bazaar, visiting the Mummification Museum, or taking a tour of the East Bank (Karnak and Luxor Temples). Please note, all optional activities and entrance fees must be paid by card.

• What kind of transportation is used on the tour?

  Transportation involves a mixture of private air-conditioned vans, overnight trains, feluccas (traditional Nile sailboats), and walking. Feluccas are basic, wind-driven sailing crafts, and itineraries may be modified due to wind, weather, or river traffic. In such cases, alternative motor vehicle transport may be used for sections.

• Who will be leading the tour?

  The tour will be led by a certified Egyptologist who serves as your Chief Experience Officer (CEO), providing extensive knowledge and support throughout the trip.

• What are the recommendations for local dress during the tour?

  When visiting mosques and other religious monuments, modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is required (e.g., long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders). A shawl or scarf is also recommended for temple visits. Outside of major cities and tourist centers, local dress is generally more conservative, and it's recommended for both men and women to wear loose-fitting clothes with shoulders covered as a sign of respect.

• What currency is used in Egypt and what are the recommendations for money?

  The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). ATMs are available in main cities and generally accept Visa and Mastercard. It's advisable to carry some cash for situations where ATMs might not be accessible. Euros, British Pounds, and US Dollars are easily exchanged. For US Dollars, ensure notes are new and in good condition (older than 1996, or with tears/blemishes may not be accepted). An emergency fund of at least $200 USD (or equivalent) is also recommended.

• Are there any health precautions or requirements for this trip?

  It is advisable to drink bottled water. You should consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and recommended inoculations such as typhoid, tetanus, infectious hepatitis, and polio. Though malaria exists in Egypt, it is not normally found in the areas visited on this tour. It's recommended to carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes, as tour leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug.

• How does tipping work on this tour?

  Tipping is customary in the Middle East. Your CEO will collect a 'Tipping Kitty' at the start of the tour (approximately $36.50-$38.50 USD per person) to cover tips for group services. Tipping your CEO is also expected and appreciated at the end of your trip, with a guideline of $6-9 USD per person per day.

• How are solo travelers accommodated?

  Solo travelers on group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip, with no single supplement. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive a single room for all hotel nights, with exceptions for the two overnight train journeys and the felucca stay.

• How might cultural celebrations like Ramadan or Aid Al-Adha affect the tour?

  During Ramadan (approx. Feb 28 - Mar 29, 2025, and Feb 17 - Mar 19, 2026), there may be some limitations to services and disruptions to schedules as Muslims observe fasting. Food is generally available to non-Muslims. During Aid Al-Adha (approx. Jun 16-17, 2024, and Jun 6-7, 2025), most shops and restaurants may be closed, and some historical places might also be closed or have fewer staff. Increased cultural sensitivity, including wearing loose-fitting clothes that cover knees and shoulders, and avoiding eating, drinking, or smoking in public, is very important during these times.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  The tour has a physical rating of 3, meaning an average level of fitness and mobility is required. Travelers must be able to walk unaided, climb stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage.