Egypt travel guide for Australians

Australians need a visa to enter Egypt for tourism. The simplest route is an e-visa applied online before you fly, or a visa on arrival at Cairo, Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh and other major entry points. Both are single-entry tourist visas typically valid for 30 days. Check the official Egyptian visa portal for current fees and any changes, and make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date.

You must have a valid passport (six months validity recommended) and a tourist visa. Apply for an e-visa through the official Egyptian visa website before travel, or get a visa on arrival at the airport. The visa on arrival is usually straightforward but can involve queues; the e-visa saves time. Entry is typically granted for 30 days. Overstaying can result in fines, so keep track of your dates.

If you plan to visit the Red Sea resorts of Sharm el-Sheikh, Dahab or Taba, there are special entry arrangements that may waive the visa for stays within certain areas, but rules change – check the latest before relying on this.

The Australian Embassy in Cairo is the nearest diplomatic mission. It provides consular services for Australians in Egypt, including passport replacements and emergency assistance. For up-to-date contact details and opening hours, use the embassy tool or check the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) smartraveller website.

Egypt is generally a budget-friendly destination for Australians. Daily costs vary: budget travellers can get by on A$60–90 per day, mid-range A$120–200, and luxury more. Flights from Australia to Cairo typically cost A$1,200–2,000 return, depending on season and routing. Internal transport, food and entry fees are low in AUD terms.

There are no direct flights from Australia to Egypt. Most routes go via the Gulf (Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi) or via Southeast Asia. Total flight time is typically 18–24 hours including a stopover. Cairo International Airport (CAI) is the main entry point; Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh also have international airports. Use a flight-time planner to see options from your home city.

Egypt uses 220 V, 50 Hz, with plug types C and F (the two round pins common in Europe). Australian plugs (type I) won't fit, so bring a universal adapter. Most hotels have standard sockets, but voltage is compatible with Australian devices (220–240 V).

Tipping, or baksheesh, is expected for almost every service: guides, drivers, hotel staff, and even people who help you take a photo. Carry small notes in Egyptian pounds. For restaurants, 10–15% is standard; for small services, EGP 20–50 is typical. It's a normal part of the economy, not an extra.

In an emergency, dial 122 for police, 123 for ambulance, 126 for tourist police, and 180 for fire. The tourist police are particularly relevant for travellers. Save these numbers in your phone. For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Cairo.