
Here is some additional information I found about visiting Egypt:
Cloths Packing List
Egypt is fearsomely hot, so be prepared for that. Bring a hat. Women may feel better if they have a scarf to put on while visiting mosques, or just to walk around in so as to head off unwanted attention. Egypt's dress code for women is not as strict as in some other Islamic countries, but women will feel MUCH more comfortable dressing in long, loose skirts and long-sleeved shirts. Invest in some light clothing -- it will save you some hassle.
One thing to recall is that if you visit mosques in Egypt, you'll be required to take off your shoes to enter. You can easily hit 5-10 mosques in a day, which means that you'll be taking off and putting on your shoes a lot. It saves time to bring shoes that are easily removed! Also, your feet will be completely filthy after a day of walking around Cairo and stomping barefoot through dusty mosques, so bring shoes that can be cleaned.
Bring appropriate clothes
Men and Women should respect the local culture by dressing appropriately: don't wear shorts except in a resort, no tanktops. A good outfit for both men and women would be a t-shirt, pants (cotton or linen is best) and comfortable shoes...otherwise, some people might be offended or not take you seriously... or if you're a woman, get some unwanted attention. If you don't think it's a big deal, look at the Egyptians. They're not wearing shorts. Also, women should bring a pullover and a scarf for mosque tours, which i highly recommend!
Tipping
Our general recommendation is to tip moderately - in accordance with the level and quality of service provided. The following guidelines are generally accepted practice (per person): Guides - US $5 -$10 per day; driver/guides - US $2- $5. For porters and waiters at hotels and for taxi drivers in cities, the customary tip is approximately 10%. (Tipping in US$1.00 bills for porters and waiters is greatly appreciated). Beware of unscrupulous people who try to exhort extra payment from unwary passengers just for shuffling their bags around.
Photography
Film is sometimes available at safari camps and game lodges even in remote areas, but stocks are usually small and of a common type only. We suggest you buy plenty of film and bring spare batteries with you before leaving home. Film is expensive and, in addition, may not be very fresh; batteries are expensive and difficult to obtain. For game and bird photography, a telephoto lens of between 200 and 300 mm is strongly recommended. Larger lenses, which require a tripod, are generally impractical for photography from vehicles, as are double lens reflex cameras. Binoculars are invaluable for game and bird viewing, and each traveler should have their own pair. Out of respect for the local cultures, seek the advice of your driver before photographing people. Note that certain Government, military and police buildings may not be photographed. Video cameras can be recharged at many safari camps via the camp generator at the discretion of the camp management.
The following guidelines on quantities to bring may be helpful:
Communications
Generally speaking, communications in Africa are not what you are accustomed to at home. Connections can be bad to nonexistent, in addition to being costly. However, from city centers, you can now call home to the USA direct through the AT&T Direct Service. To make an AT&T calling card or collect call to the USA, simply dial 510-0200 from Cairo, Egypt, and you will get straight through to a helpful AT&T operator back in the USA. Internet access is only available from limited internet-equipped locations in urban areas.
Security
Safety and security is a matter of common sense. Therefore, take the same precautions while traveling, that you would in any major city at home. Do not carry large sums of cash with you, keep a close watch on handbags, purses, wallets etc. when walking in crowded areas, avoid walking alone at night, lock up valuables in hotel safe deposit boxes and never leave valuables in view in an unattended car or tour bus. In safari camps that do not have safes or locked doors, please keep tempting valuables out of sight. Word of advice: make copies of passports, credit cards and other pertinent identification and documents. Keep one copy with you, and leave one copy with your emergency contact at home.
Food
Food is generally Continental with a remaining British influence but with the added luxury of tropical fruits and excellent curries and cold buffets. Tea and coffee between the main meals is included as well. Many meals will be served in a family or buffet style.
Water
Water is safe to drink
from most taps in the major cities and in many safari areas, and bottled water
is readily available. Your hosts will advise you of the specific water situation
pertaining to your accommodation.
Oliver's recommendation - drink bottled water!