Egypt is a land of timeless wonders—home to ancient pyramids, sacred temples, bustling souks, and some of the most hospitable people you’ll ever meet. But while its rich history and culture attract millions of travelers every year, many visitors unintentionally make missteps that can lead to awkward moments or even offense. The key to a smoother and more respectful visit? Knowing what not to do.
Egypt has its own rhythm and etiquette—shaped by centuries of tradition, Islamic customs, and deep-rooted hospitality. While Egyptians are famously forgiving of tourists, a lack of awareness can come off as rude or ignorant. From how to dress to what not to photograph, understanding these unwritten rules can make a huge difference in how you’re treated and how much you enjoy your trip.
Whether you’re exploring Cairo’s chaotic streets, sailing down the Nile, or marveling at Luxor’s temples, these 20 things to avoid will help you travel smarter, safer, and more respectfully. Trust us—you don’t want to be that tourist.
– Avoid These Common Mistakes Tourists Make in Egypt
– 6 Tourist Traps to Avoid in El Cairo Egypt And How to Avoid Them
– 56 Best Things To Know Before Visiting Egypt – Best Egypt Travel Tips For First Timers
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Quick & Easy Tips
Don’t Dress Too Casually: Especially outside tourist areas, dress modestly. Long pants and covered shoulders are a sign of respect.
Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Holding hands may be okay in some areas, but kissing or hugging in public is frowned upon.
Don’t Use Your Left Hand: In Egyptian culture, the left hand is considered unclean. Use your right hand for eating and greetings.
Respect Prayer Times: Don’t interrupt someone praying or walk in front of them during prayer—it’s considered very disrespectful.
Never Take Photos Without Permission: Always ask before photographing people, especially in rural or religious settings.
One major cultural misunderstanding tourists face in Egypt is the perception of assertiveness. While haggling in markets is expected and part of the experience, being too aggressive or disrespectful can come off as rude. On the flip side, Egyptian vendors can be persistent, which some Western travelers mistake for harassment—when in fact, it’s often a blend of business savvy and cultural norms around negotiation.
Religion is another sensitive area. Egypt is predominantly Muslim, and tourists who ignore this—by dressing too revealingly, drinking alcohol in public, or making comments about Islam—may unknowingly offend locals. While larger cities like Cairo and Alexandria are more relaxed, rural and conservative areas hold strongly to traditional values. Respect goes a long way in avoiding cultural friction.
There’s also the issue of class and privilege. Tourists who flaunt wealth or show frustration at local infrastructure often come off as entitled. While many Egyptians welcome tourism, they’re also aware of the gap between visitor expectations and everyday local realities. A little humility and patience—not just money—can make your visit more meaningful and mutually respectful.
Things Not to Do in Egypt
1. Don’t Disrespect Local Customs
Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country with traditional values. Dress modestly, especially in rural areas, mosques, and religious sites. Women should avoid revealing clothing, and men should avoid wearing shorts in less touristy areas.
2. Don’t Drink Tap Water
The tap water in Egypt is not safe for drinking. Stick to bottled water and use it for brushing your teeth as well to avoid potential stomach issues.
3. Don’t Forget to Bargain
Haggling is expected in markets and with street vendors. Don’t accept the initial price; negotiate politely to get a fair deal.
4. Don’t Photograph Locals Without Permission
Taking photos of people, especially women, without asking first is considered disrespectful. Always ask for permission before snapping a photo.
5. Don’t Ignore Ramadan Customs
During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. If visiting during this holy month, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours out of respect for those fasting.
6. Don’t Enter Mosques Without Proper Attire
If you’re visiting a mosque, dress appropriately (long pants or skirts, covered shoulders) and remove your shoes before entering. Women may also be required to cover their hair.
7. Don’t Overlook the Heat
Egypt can get extremely hot, especially in the summer months. Wear light, breathable clothing, stay hydrated, and avoid midday sun exposure.
8. Don’t Expect Punctuality
Time in Egypt can be flexible, and schedules are often approximate. Be patient and adjust to a more relaxed pace.
9. Don’t Forget to Tip
Tipping, or “baksheesh,” is a common practice in Egypt. Tip service staff, tour guides, and even restroom attendants. Small amounts of local currency are appreciated.
10. Don’t Disrespect Historical Sites
Avoid climbing on ancient monuments, defacing ruins, or touching artifacts. These actions are not only disrespectful but can also result in fines or legal action.
11. Don’t Rely Solely on Credit Cards
While major hotels and upscale restaurants accept credit cards, cash is preferred in many places, especially markets and smaller establishments. Carry Egyptian pounds (EGP) for convenience.
12. Don’t Assume Everyone Speaks English
While many Egyptians in tourist areas speak English, this is less common in rural regions. Learning basic Arabic phrases like “Shukran” (thank you) or “Salam” (hello) is helpful and appreciated.
13. Don’t Ignore Local Laws on Drugs
Drug laws in Egypt are strict, and penalties for possession or use of illegal substances are severe. Avoid any involvement with drugs during your visit.
14. Don’t Skip Tipping Tour Guides and Drivers
Tour guides and drivers often rely on tips as a significant portion of their income. A 10-15% tip is customary for good service.
15. Don’t Ride Camels or Horses Without Research
While camel and horse rides are popular near landmarks like the Pyramids of Giza, some operators mistreat their animals. Choose reputable providers to ensure animal welfare.
16. Don’t Forget to Dress for Religious Sites
If visiting Christian churches or Islamic mosques, dress modestly. Women should carry a scarf to cover their heads if needed, and everyone should wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
17. Don’t Underestimate the Traffic
Traffic in Egyptian cities like Cairo can be chaotic. Avoid driving unless you’re familiar with local traffic norms and instead rely on taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber.
18. Don’t Be Afraid to Decline Offers
Vendors and touts can be persistent, especially in tourist areas. Politely decline unwanted offers or services with a firm “La, shukran” (No, thank you).
19. Don’t Forget to Respect the Call to Prayer
The call to prayer (Adhan) is an integral part of daily life in Egypt. While you’re not expected to stop everything, avoid loud or disruptive behavior during prayer times.
20. Don’t Swim in the Nile
While the Nile is iconic, swimming in it can be unsafe due to pollution and potential health risks. Opt for guided boat tours instead.
Final Thoughts
Traveling through Egypt is an unforgettable experience—but it’s also a powerful lesson in cultural humility. The best trips aren’t just about what you see; they’re about how you engage with the people who call those places home. Understanding and respecting local customs doesn’t limit your travel—it enriches it.
Remember, Egypt is a country of contrasts. Ancient and modern, secular and religious, relaxed and deeply traditional—it doesn’t always fit into neat boxes. What might seem like a small faux pas in your country could be a big deal here, and vice versa. Awareness is your best travel companion.
By taking the time to learn what not to do in Egypt, you’ll not only avoid discomfort—you’ll open the door to deeper, more genuine connections. So pack your curiosity, your respect, and these 20 must-know “don’ts”—and prepare to explore one of the world’s most iconic cultures with grace and gratitude.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.