Egypt is a bucket-list destination for many, but after spending a week navigating the pyramids and the Nile, I realized that the “Instagram version” of Egypt is very different from reality. I recently shared my experience on TikTok, and since it resonated with so many of you, I wanted to break down the full details here and help you decide if Egypt worth visiting.
From dealing with the “Pharaoh’s Revenge” (food poisoning) to the relentless tipping culture, here is my honest take as a travel advisor on whether you should book that flight.
The Reality Check: Traveling While Sick
I have to preface this by saying my “vibes” were low from the start. I spent the entire trip fighting the flu, followed immediately by food poisoning. When you aren’t feeling 100%, the chaos of a new country can feel amplified. However, even through the haze of fever, some things were impossible to ignore.
The Tour Experience: Vacations To Go
I booked a guided tour through Vacations To Go, and honestly, it was the saving grace of the trip.
- Small Groups: We had only 7 people, which made the logistics much smoother.
- The Guides: Our guides were incredible Egyptologists. They weren’t just informative; they actually stepped up to help me when I was sick.
- Safety: I would not recommend doing Egypt without a guide. Having a local professional to navigate the crowds and the “hustle” is essential for your sanity.
The Cons: Why Egypt is “Expert Level” Travel
Egypt is not “entry-level” travel. If you’ve only ever traveled to Western Europe or all-inclusive resorts, Egypt will be a culture shock.
1. The Relentless Hustle
Everywhere we went, we were approached by men asking for money, tips, or trying to sell us souvenirs. While I understand that Egypt is a developing nation, the level of persistence here is unlike anything I’ve seen in other similar economies.
A Note on Stereotypes: As a Black traveler, I dealt with constant “Bob Marley” comments and other stereotypes. While I usually have thick skin, the combination of the heat, being sick, and the constant financial solicitation was exhausting.These are the types of things that will really make people wonder is Egypt worth visiting. And I understand that!
2. The Tipping Culture (Baksheesh)
I estimate we spent well over $500 just in tips. In Egypt, everyone expects a tip, even a stranger who helps you cross the street will hold out their hand. (no literally, one of the old guys on my trip had pain in his knee and someone helped him across the street and then asked for a tip). It’s a systemic issue where the government should be doing more to support its citizens, but as a tourist, it feels like a constant drain on your wallet and energy.
3. The “4-Star” Hotel Myth
I booked a tour specifically for 4- and 5-star accommodations, but the standards were not what I expected:
- The Marriott in Cairo: Rated as a 4/5, but felt like a 3-star at best.
- Mercure Hurghada: They didn’t even have Wi-Fi in the guest rooms.
Travel Advisor Tip: In Egypt, there is very little “middle ground.” If you want true luxury, you have to pay significantly more for high-end tours like Abercrombie & Kent. Otherwise, be prepared for “luxury” hotels to feel a bit dated.
The Food: Hits and Misses
I’ll be real: I was hungry most of the time. The local cuisine just wasn’t for me, but that’s okay! Every traveler has different tastes (I personally don’t like the food in Spain, but I still love visiting).
The Silver Lining: The Egyptian falafel was actually incredible. I’m not even a falafel fan, but this was a highlight.
Final Verdict: Would I Go Back?
If my future kids really wanted to see the pyramids, I’d take them—but I’d probably be annoyed the whole time.
My advice for you:
1. Get a Guide: Don’t try to DIY this trip.
2. Develop a Backbone: You need to be comfortable saying “No” firmly.
3. Manage Expectations: It is a beautiful, historic country, but it is also an exhausting one.
Egypt is an experience everyone should decide on for themselves, but be smart, stay hydrated, and bring plenty of small bills for tips. I hope this blog helps when you’re asking is Egypt worth visiting?
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