The best time to visit Cairo and Giza is from October to April, when the weather is mild and pleasant. The peak season is from December to February, when the prices are higher and the attractions are more crowded. The summer months from May to September are very hot and dry, and some sites may close during the midday heat.

Most nationalities need a visa to enter Egypt, which can be obtained online, on arrival, or from an Egyptian embassy or consulate. The online visa is valid for 90 days and allows a single entry for up to 30 days. The visa on arrival costs $25 and can be paid in cash at the airport. The visa from an embassy or consulate may take longer to process and require additional documents. You can check the visa requirements for your country.

You should pack light and comfortable clothing, preferably made of cotton or linen, as well as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. You should also bring a scarf or a shawl to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites. For the evenings, you may need a light jacket or sweater, as well as some smart casual attire for dining out. You should also pack comfortable shoes, a camera, a power adapter, and any personal medications you may need.

The currency in Egypt is the Egyptian pound (EGP), which is divided into 100 piastres. The exchange rate as of January 2024 is 1 USD = 30.90 EGP. You can exchange your money at banks, hotels, or authorized exchange bureaus, or withdraw cash from ATMs. Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, but you may need cash for smaller towns and rural areas. You can check the current exchange rate.

Tipping, or baksheesh, is a common practice in Egypt and a way of showing appreciation for good service. You are expected to tip your guide, driver, hotel staff, restaurant staff, and anyone who helps you during your trip. The amount of tip depends on the quality of service and your satisfaction, but as a general guideline, you can follow these suggestions: Service Suggested Tip Guide $10-$20 per day Driver $5-$10 per day Hotel staff $1-$2 per person per day Restaurant staff 10%-15% of the bill Cruise staff $5-$10 per person per day