FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to your questions before joining a tour so that you can find out exactly what you want to know.
1. General Information
Step To Egypt is a registered travel agency specializing in private trips across Egypt, offering customized experiences that suit different interests and budgets.
We operate in all major destinations, including Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Alexandria, the Red Sea (Hurghada, Marsa Alam, Sharm El-Sheikh), and the Western Desert.
We offer fully private trips, including cultural and historical experiences, desert safaris, Nile cruises, Red Sea getaways, and adventure activities.
The best time to visit is from October to April when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing. However, Red Sea destinations are enjoyable year-round.
Yes, all our private trips include a professional Egyptologist guide who will provide in-depth historical and cultural insights.
Absolutely! We offer family-friendly itineraries, activities for children, and flexible schedules to make the experience enjoyable for all ages.
Yes, we specialize in tailor-made private trips based on your preferences, travel dates, and budget. Let us know your interests, and we’ll create the perfect itinerary!
Yes, Egypt is generally safe for travelers. We take all necessary precautions and ensure our guests’ safety by following tourism authority guidelines.
Our professional guides speak multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian. Please let us know your preferred language when booking.
You can contact us via email, WhatsApp, or social media. Our team is available 24/7 to assist you with any questions or bookings.
2. Booking & Payments
You can book directly through our website, via email, WhatsApp, or through our social media pages.
We accept payments via credit/debit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers. In some cases, we also offer a pay-on-arrival option.
Yes, a deposit is required to confirm your booking. The remaining balance can be paid before your trip or upon arrival, depending on the arrangement.
We offer a full refund for cancellations. If you need to cancel, please notify us as soon as possible.
Yes, modifications are possible based on availability. Please contact us in advance if you need to make changes to your trip.
Yes, we provide special discounts for families and private groups. Contact us for a customized offer.
Yes, once your payment is processed, you will receive a confirmation email with all trip details, including itinerary and contact information.
If your flight is delayed, contact us immediately, and we will do our best to adjust your schedule or reschedule your private trip.
Yes, we accommodate last-minute bookings based on availability. However, we recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred dates.
No, travel insurance is not included, but we strongly recommend purchasing coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost baggage.
3. Travel Documents & Visas
Yes, most travelers need a visa to enter Egypt. French nationals and many other nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport for 25 USD (~22 EUR, ~20 GBP), payable in cash (USD, EUR, or GBP) at the airport visa counter or to our representative.
Yes, you can apply for an e-visa through the official Egyptian government website before your trip. The process is simple and allows for faster entry.
The standard tourist visa is valid for 30 days from the date of entry. If you need a longer stay, extensions may be possible through local immigration offices.
No, you do not need a passport at the time of booking. However, you must have a valid passport when traveling, with at least six months validity from your arrival date.
If you lose your passport, immediately contact your country’s embassy or consulate in Egypt. Step To Egypt can assist you in locating the nearest embassy.
Yes, children require their own visa unless they are listed on their parent’s passport, which is rare nowadays. Visa fees and regulations apply the same way as for adults.
Only European Union (EU) nationals from certain countries (such as France, Germany, and Italy) may enter with a national ID card, but they must also bring two passport-sized photos to issue a visa on arrival.
As of now, there are no mandatory vaccinations for entry into Egypt. However, we recommend checking with your airline or embassy for the latest health regulations.
If you have a short layover (less than 48 hours) and do not leave the airport, you do not need a visa. However, if you plan to exit the airport, a transit visa may be required.
We provide general guidance on visa requirements, but we do not process visa applications. We recommend applying for an e-visa or obtaining one on arrival, or our representative will wait for you after landing with the visa ticket if you prefer.
4. Arrival & Departure
Yes, if you book an airport transfer with us, our representative will be waiting for you at the airport with a sign displaying your name.
Your assigned driver or guide will be holding a Step To Egypt sign with your name on it at the arrival hall. You will also receive their contact details before your flight.
Our airport representatives can help with luggage and guide you through customs, but customs clearance itself is handled by airport officials.
Also as part of your travel package, our representative will provide you with a local SIM card for easy communication and, if requested before arrival, your entrance visa (25 USD) to simplify the process.
If your flight is delayed, please inform us as soon as possible via WhatsApp, email, or social media so we can adjust your pickup schedule accordingly.
But normally, our representatives keep track of the arrival radar using the flight number.
On average, it takes 30-60 minutes to go through immigration, collect your luggage, and clear customs, depending on airport traffic.
Yes! We offer private airport transfers in Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh, and Marsa Alam to ensure a smooth arrival.
It’s best to have Egyptian pounds (EGP) for small expenses like SIM cards or snacks, but USD, EUR, and GBP are also widely accepted for visa payments and taxis.
Yes, major airports in Egypt offer free Wi-Fi, but it may be limited. You can also use the free SIM card provided by Step To Egypt for better connectivity.
For international flights, arrive at least 3 hours before departure. For domestic flights, 2 hours is recommended.
Yes, we can arrange same-day airport transfers, but it’s best to book in advance to guarantee availability.
5. Accommodation & Cruises
Step To Egypt offers a variety of private accommodations, including 5-star hotels, boutique stays, desert lodges, and Nile cruises to match your budget and preferences.
Yes! All our private Dahabiya and Nile cruises include an Egyptologist guide, meals, and sightseeing at historical sites along the Nile.
Absolutely! If you have a preferred hotel, let us know, and we will arrange your stay accordingly, provided it’s available on your travel dates.
A Dahabiya is a small, traditional sailing boat that offers an intimate, quiet, and luxurious experience with a personalized itinerary, while regular cruises are larger ships with fixed schedules.
Yes, most of our accommodation and all of our cruises include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, unless otherwise stated in your itinerary.
Most hotels and cruises offer free Wi-Fi, but in some remote locations, Wi-Fi may be limited. We provide a local SIM card upon arrival to help you stay connected.
Yes! We offer private family-friendly cruises with spacious cabins and customized itineraries to ensure a comfortable experience for travelers of all ages.
Yes! We offer luxury private cruises and honeymoon packages, including romantic dinners, spa treatments, and exclusive excursions tailored for couples.
Yes! Whether it’s a birthday, honeymoon, or anniversary, we can arrange special decorations, cakes, or private celebrations at your hotel or cruise.
We recommend comfortable clothing, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and a light jacket for the evenings. For temple visits, wearing modest clothing is recommended.
6. Transportation & Guides
Step To Egypt provides private air-conditioned vehicles, luxury cars, domestic flights, and even private boats for Nile cruises.
Yes! All our trips are private, meaning you will have a dedicated driver and guide for a personalized and flexible experience.
Yes! We provide private airport transfers in Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh, and Marsa Alam with a representative to assist you upon arrival.
Yes! We offer guides fluent in English, French, Spanish, Italian, and German. Let us know your language preference when booking.
Yes, if you prefer a female guide, we can arrange it based on availability.
We use modern, air-conditioned vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and minivans, depending on the number of travelers.
Your guide or driver will be holding a Step To Egypt sign with your name and will contact you before pickup.
Yes! We offer domestic flights, private transfers, and even luxury train options for long-distance travel.
We track all flights and schedules, so if there’s a delay, your driver will adjust accordingly. If there are any changes, we will inform you via WhatsApp or email.
Yes! We offer chauffeur services with private cars for the duration of your stay, allowing you to explore Egypt at your own pace.
7. Flights (Internal & External)
Yes! We can book international flights to and from Egypt, ensuring you get the best routes and prices for your trip.
Yes! We book domestic flights between Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh, and Marsa Alam to make your journey smoother.
We collaborate with major international airlines, including EasyJet, EgyptAir, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, and Air France, among others.
Domestic flights: Arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure.
International flights: Arrive at least 3 hours before departure.
Domestic flights: Usually 23 kg checked baggage + 8 kg carry-on.
International flights: Depends on the airline and ticket class. We will provide exact details upon booking.
Yes! Our representative will be waiting for you at the airport with a Step To Egypt sign, ready to assist with baggage and immigration. If you requested it in advance, your Egyptian visa (25 USD) and SIM card will be provided.
We track all flights and adjust schedules accordingly. Your private driver and representative will be waiting for you regardless of any delays.
Flight changes depend on airline policies. We will assist you in modifying your booking, but change fees may apply.
Domestic flights: Offer light snacks or beverages.
International flights: Meal options depend on the airline and ticket class.
Yes! If you’re looking for VIP private flights, we can arrange private jets or helicopters upon request.
8. Tours & Excursions
Yes! All our trips are private, meaning you will have a dedicated guide, driver, and customized itinerary with no other travelers in your group.
Absolutely! All our trips can be fully customized based on your interests, schedule, and budget.
Our private trips include hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, an expert guide, entrance fees (if requested), and meals (depending on the itinerary).
Yes! All historical and cultural excursions are led by professional Egyptologists who provide in-depth explanations of the sites.
You can book directly on our website, through email, WhatsApp, or via our social media platforms.
Yes! All entrance fees are included in the total price of our trips—no hidden costs!
Cancellation or rescheduling is not guaranteed, as it depends on availability and policies. However, we will always do our best to assist you and accommodate changes whenever possible.
Yes! We offer hot air balloon rides in Luxor, desert safaris in the White Desert and Siwa, and unique experiences such as traditional felucca sailing.
Yes, but we recommend booking in advance to secure availability. Last-minute bookings are possible depending on guide and transportation availability.
Most day trips last 6 to 10 hours, depending on the destination. Full-day excursions to Luxor, Abu Simbel, or Alexandria may take longer due to travel distances.
9. Activities & Experiences
We offer a wide range of private activities including hot air balloon rides, Nile felucca sailing, desert safaris, local food tours, and cultural experiences.
Yes, we can arrange adventure activities like scuba diving in the Red Sea, snorkeling, quad biking, dune bashing, and sandboarding.
Yes, hot air balloon rides over Luxor are available as part of our private trip packages, offering early morning flights with panoramic views.
Yes, we offer local food tours that include visits to traditional markets as well as cooking classes for an authentic taste of Egyptian cuisine.
Yes, we offer private boat trips on the Nile, including felucca rides and motorboat trips, with options to include dinner cruises.
Yes, both horseback riding and camel riding experiences can be arranged near popular historical sites or in the desert.
Many of our activities are family-friendly, and we can customize experiences to ensure safety and enjoyment for all ages.
You can book activities directly through our website, via email, WhatsApp, or through our social media channels.
Absolutely, all experiences can be fully customized to fit your interests, schedule, and budget.
Cancellation or rescheduling depends on the specific activity and availability; however, we will always do our best to assist you.
10. Health & Safety
Egypt is generally safe for tourists. We ensure safety by arranging private trips with experienced drivers and licensed guides.
Yes, we strongly recommend obtaining travel insurance to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and unforeseen incidents.
We advise checking recommended vaccinations, bringing necessary medications, and drinking only bottled water to avoid any health issues.
Major cities such as Cairo, Luxor, and Hurghada have modern hospitals and clinics. In case of an emergency, we will assist you in arranging prompt medical care.
Our trips feature private transportation, experienced licensed guides, and carefully planned itineraries designed to avoid high-risk areas.
No, we recommend drinking only bottled water. Bottled water is provided during our trips to ensure your health and safety.
If you fall ill, please contact us immediately. We will help arrange medical assistance and guide you through insurance or emergency procedures.
Always follow your guide’s instructions, avoid food from unverified vendors, stay hydrated, and use sunscreen during outdoor activities.
While many restrictions have been relaxed, we continue to monitor health guidelines and ensure our private trips adhere to current hygiene and safety protocols.
In an emergency, contact our 24/7 support team immediately. We are available to assist with medical emergencies, lost documents, or any other urgent issues.
11. Packing & Dress Code
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle. For cooler months (November to February), bring a light jacket.
Yes, when visiting mosques, temples, or religious sites, modest clothing is recommended. Women should cover their shoulders and wear long skirts or pants, while men should avoid sleeveless shirts.
Yes, in tourist areas and resorts, casual wear like shorts and tank tops is acceptable. However, in cities and rural areas, dressing modestly is more respectful.
A headscarf is only required for women when visiting mosques. It’s also useful for sun protection in desert areas.
Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are best for exploring historical sites, as they often have uneven surfaces. Sandals are fine for casual outings.
Casual and comfortable clothing is suitable for daytime activities. For dinners onboard, smart casual attire is recommended.
Yes, if your trip includes a visit to the Red Sea, a Nile cruise, or a hotel with a pool, a swimsuit is essential.
Egypt uses European-style two-prong plugs (Type C and F) with 220V voltage. Bring an adapter if your devices use a different plug type.
For desert trips, pack sunglasses, a hat, a scarf to cover your face from dust, sunscreen, a flashlight, and comfortable clothing.
Yes, major cities have shopping centers where you can find clothing, toiletries, and other essentials if you forget something.
12. Money & Currency
The official currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP), though USD, EUR, and GBP are widely accepted in tourist areas.
You can exchange a small amount before arrival, but it’s easy to exchange money at the airport, banks, or exchange offices in Egypt.
Credit and debit cards are accepted in hotels, major restaurants, and tourist shops, but cash is preferred for small purchases and local markets.
Yes, ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Most accept international cards for cash withdrawals in Egyptian Pounds.
It’s best to pay in Egyptian Pounds, as some places may give unfavorable exchange rates for foreign currency payments.
Yes, for small purchases, tips, and markets, it’s best to carry cash in smaller denominations. Many local shops do not accept cards.
While some modern establishments accept mobile payments, they are not widely used in Egypt. It’s best to have cash or a card as a backup.
This depends on your travel style. Meals at local restaurants range from 100-300 EGP, while personal expenses vary.
Some places charge a small fee for card payments. Check with your bank for foreign transaction fees before using your card abroad.
While USD, EUR, and GBP are sometimes accepted, it’s preferable to tip in EGP to avoid exchange difficulties for locals.
13. Local Culture & Etiquette
Egyptians are generally warm and hospitable. A friendly greeting and respect for local traditions go a long way. It’s customary to greet people with a handshake and a smile.
Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas or of religious figures. Some may decline, and it’s important to respect their wishes.
Dressing modestly is recommended, especially outside tourist areas. Women should avoid wearing revealing clothing in conservative areas, and men should avoid going shirtless in public spaces.
Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics or religion unless invited to do so. Public displays of affection, such as kissing, are frowned upon in conservative settings.
Yes, bargaining is common in markets and with street vendors. Start with a lower price and negotiate respectfully. Fixed prices are usually set in malls and restaurants.
Tipping is a common practice in Egypt. It’s customary to tip service providers such as guides, drivers, waiters, and hotel staff. Small amounts are appreciated.
Yes, many mosques welcome non-Muslim visitors, but modest clothing is required. Women may need to cover their hair, and everyone must remove their shoes before entering.
A common greeting is “As-salamu alaykum” (peace be upon you), with the response being “Wa alaykum as-salam.” Handshakes are standard between men; between men and women, a nod or verbal greeting is more common unless a handshake is offered.
Alcohol is available in hotels, bars, and licensed restaurants, but drinking in public spaces is not culturally accepted. During Ramadan, alcohol sales may be restricted.
If invited to someone’s home, it is polite to bring a small gift, such as sweets or fruit. Remove your shoes before entering if you see others doing so.
14. Family & Accessibility
Yes, Egypt is a great destination for families. Many attractions, such as the pyramids, museums, and cruises, are enjoyable for all ages.
Yes, our private trips can be customized to accommodate families with children, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience for all.
Most hotels and Nile cruises offer family rooms, interconnected rooms, and child-friendly facilities such as pools and play areas.
Yes, Egypt is generally safe for families. However, it’s important to keep an eye on young children in crowded areas and ensure they stay hydrated.
Many restaurants offer kid-friendly meals, and international fast food chains are available in major cities. Special requests for simpler dishes are usually accommodated.
While strollers can be used in cities, they may not be practical for historical sites with uneven terrain. A baby carrier is often a better option for sites like the pyramids.
Yes, we offer private trips that can be adapted for travelers with mobility needs. Some sites have wheelchair access, while others may require additional assistance.
Many hotels offer accessible rooms, and we can arrange private transportation with accessibility features upon request.
Yes, Egypt has hospitals and medical facilities in major cities. We recommend travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Absolutely. Our private trips can be tailored to accommodate the needs of elderly travelers, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable experience.
15. Special Requests & Customization
Yes, all our trips are private and fully customizable. Let us know your preferences, and we will tailor the itinerary to match your interests and schedule.
Absolutely! We can organize special arrangements such as birthday cakes, private dinners, and surprise celebrations during your trip.
Yes, we will do our best to accommodate requests for specific guides or drivers, depending on availability.
Yes, we provide private trips for solo travelers and can customize the itinerary to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Yes, we offer different vehicle options, including luxury cars, minivans, and buses, depending on your group size and preference.
Yes, we can arrange private Dahabiya or Nile cruises for families, friends, or groups who prefer an exclusive experience.
Yes, whether you need vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other dietary options, we can arrange suitable meals during your trip.
Yes, we can design a multi-destination itinerary, including cultural sites, the Red Sea, desert adventures, and more.
We will do our best to accommodate any changes, though modifications depend on availability and cancellation policies of hotels and flights.
Yes, all our trips are private, meaning your group will have a dedicated guide, vehicle, and itinerary without being joined by others.
16. Red Sea & Desert Adventures
The Red Sea offers diving, snorkeling, kite surfing, boat trips, submarine tours, and relaxing on beautiful beaches.
For deep dives, certification is required. However, beginners can enjoy introductory dives or snorkeling with a professional instructor.
Hurghada, Marsa Alam, and Sharm El-Sheikh are among the top destinations for exploring vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Yes, we offer private desert adventures, including 4×4 safaris, camel rides, sandboarding, and visits to Bedouin villages.
Light, breathable clothing, sunglasses, a hat, and comfortable closed-toe shoes are recommended for desert activities.
Yes, we can arrange private overnight camping in the White Desert, Black Desert, or other desert locations with all necessary facilities.
Yes, the Red Sea is generally safe for swimming. However, it’s important to follow safety guidelines, especially in areas with strong currents.
The Red Sea is great year-round, but the best months are from September to May when the weather is pleasant. The desert is best visited from October to April to avoid extreme heat.
Yes, we offer family-friendly experiences, and many Red Sea resorts have activities designed for children.
Yes, we provide private transportation from Cairo, Luxor, or other cities to Red Sea resorts and desert locations.
17. Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not mandatory but highly recommended to cover unexpected situations such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage.
We do not provide insurance directly, but we work with trusted partners like World Nomads and can assist you in obtaining a suitable policy.
World Nomads generally covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost baggage, flight delays, and emergency evacuations, but coverage details may vary.
We do not sell travel insurance, but we can recommend World Nomads as a trusted provider that fits your travel needs.
It’s best to purchase travel insurance as soon as you book your trip to ensure coverage for cancellations or unforeseen events before departure.
World Nomads offers COVID-19 coverage, but policies vary. Always check the details before purchasing.
World Nomads covers many adventure activities, but you should confirm with them whether activities like diving, sandboarding, or quad biking are included.
If you have travel insurance, contact your provider immediately. World Nomads offers 24/7 support, and from our end, we will also assist you in reaching the nearest medical facility if needed.
World Nomads covers lost, stolen, or delayed baggage, but the coverage amount and conditions depend on their policy.
You should contact your insurance company directly. World Nomads offers 24/7 support and will guide you through providing necessary documentation such as medical reports, receipts, or police reports for lost items.