Luxor Travel Tips

Luxor Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips

Before You Go

  • Respect local customs: Egypt is a conservative country, and Luxor is no exception. Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
  • Learn some Arabic phrases: Greet locals with “As-salamu alaykum” (hello), “Shukraan” (thank you), and “Tafadhal” (please).
  • Stay hydrated: Bring refillable water bottles, and avoid drinking tap water.

Temple Etiquette

  • Remove your shoes: When entering temples or mosques, remove your shoes to show respect.
  • Dress modestly: Avoid revealing clothing, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • No flash photography: Refrain from using flash photography inside temples to preserve the artifacts and avoid disturbing other visitors.

Interacting with Locals

  • Be respectful of Ramadan: If you’re traveling during Ramadan, be mindful of locals who are fasting. Avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.
  • Haggle politely: Haggle at markets, but do so respectfully and with a smile.
  • Tip generously: Tip guides, drivers, and restaurant staff around 10-15% of the total bill.

Safety Precautions

  • Be aware of scams: Be cautious of overly friendly locals who offer to show you around or sell you souvenirs at inflated prices.
  • Keep valuables secure: Keep your valuables close, especially in crowded areas and markets.
  • Use reputable transportation: Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and avoid hitchhiking.

Environmental Awareness

  • Reduce plastic waste: Refuse single-use plastics, and opt for reusable bags and water bottles instead.
  • Respect archaeological sites: Avoid touching or damaging ancient artifacts, and stay on designated paths to preserve the sites.
  • Conserve water: Take shorter showers, and turn off taps when not in use to conserve this precious resource.

Additional Tips

  • Bargain for souvenirs: Expect to haggle at markets, and don’t be afraid to walk away if the price isn’t right.
  • Try local cuisine: Sample traditional Egyptian dishes like koshari, falafel, and shawarma.
  • Be prepared for crowds: Popular sites like the Valley of the Kings can get crowded; plan accordingly, and consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening.

By following these travel and cultural etiquette tips, you’ll be well on your way to having a respectful and enjoyable trip in Luxor!