Health Travel Tips

Staying well makes a big difference to how much you enjoy Egypt. These are practical tips we give our own travellers. They are general advice, not medical advice, so please speak to your doctor or a travel clinic before you go.

1. Before you go

• See your doctor or a travel clinic a few weeks before travel about vaccinations and any medicines you need.
• Pack a small health kit: your prescription medicines (in their original packaging), pain relief, rehydration sachets, plasters, antiseptic wipes, insect repellent, sunscreen and hand sanitiser.
• Get travel insurance that covers medical treatment and cancellation, and any activities you plan to do, such as a balloon ride or snorkelling.

2. Water and food

• Drink bottled or filtered water and plenty of it. Egypt is hot and dry for much of the year.
• Choose freshly cooked food and be careful with salads, ice and unpeeled fruit if you have a sensitive stomach.
• Wash or sanitise your hands before eating.

3. Sun and heat

• Use a high-SPF sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses, and wear light, loose clothing.
• Avoid long walks in the hottest part of the day, roughly 11am to 3pm, especially from May to September. Your guide can plan visits for the cooler morning and late afternoon.

4. Pace yourself

• Sightseeing days can be long, with a lot of walking and steps. Build in rest time and tell your guide if you need to slow down.
• Get enough sleep, especially before early starts such as the Luxor balloon or Abu Simbel.

5. Insects

• Use insect repellent, particularly near the Nile and in the evenings, and cover up at dusk.

6. If you feel unwell

• Tell your guide or contact us straight away so we can help you find a pharmacy or doctor.
• Carry a list of your medicines, allergies and your insurance details.
• Check your government’s latest travel health advice for Egypt before you travel.

Have a question about a particular tour and your health or fitness? Contact us before you book and we will tell you honestly what the day involves.