Egyptian Discoverer

The sleeper cabins are 2-berth - as you enter, there is a bed which looks like a sofa.  Later in the evening, the train guard comes to each carriage and adjusts the sofa so it becomes a bed and then the second bed folds down from the wall above the first.  There is a small sink but toilet facilites are shared. It's a great way to travel and a fun experience, but that being said, the standard may not be up to those experienced on the Swiss Rail Network and you should come with this in mind!

Kai Aylward - Sales

Yes, they should be available at most hotels. If not, they can usually be borrowed from housekeeping.

Alessandra Van Dyk - Egypt Operations

Yes, if you want to. There are several opportunities to ride camels, but we would suggest organising this through the tour leader rather than riding any of the camels you may be offered near temples or pyramids, as the guides for these camels may attempt to lead you away from the group, then demand money before letting you down and/or taking photos.

Kai Aylward - Sales

Whether you fly or drive, you will face an early start. The flight can't be pre-booked more than a few days in advance, but when booking these our local operator will attempt to get you onto the flight that arrives before sunrise when the site is cooler and less crowded. Seeing the sun rise over Abu Simbel and the lake makes for a special experience. If you go by road, the coaches go in large convoys and all turn up at the same time, meaning the site will be crowded and the sun will be up already. The drive there takes a few hours and we have had complaints about the standard and speed of the driving in the past.

This optional trip is booked locally by the leader and costs from approx $100 for the road trip to over $200 for the flight. Exact costs will be confirmed locally as it can depend on how many people take either option.

Alessandra Van Dyk - Egypt Operations

Yes, it is very easy and straightforward. Visas are required by all non-Arab nationalities and currently cost £15, or the equivalent in one of the below currencies. You obtain the visa upon arrival at Cairo airport, just before passing through passport control. You can pay in $US, £UK, Eur and EGP, and the same people who give you the visa will change any of these currencies for you.

Alessandra Van Dyk - Egypt Operations

You are visiting a predominantly Muslim country, therefore you should dress modestly at all times when visiting cultural sites, and there may also be times when you are asked to 'cover up'. During your trip the tour leader will always advise you on appropriate dress for each day's activities. 

If you are asked to 'cover up', you'll need to cover your shoulders, arms and legs. We recommend packing lightweight trousers or a long skirt, and a long sleeved shirt. Women may also be required to cover their hair with a scarf if entering a mosque or religious quarters.

Jim Eite - Product Manager

Food in Egypt involves such things as kebabs, chicken, stews, pitta bread, falafel, beans, aubergine and other vegetables, pickles, salads and the like. Dishes tend to be simple and wholesome and vegetarians can be catered for if they accept that the options may be somewhat limited! Bottled water and soft drinks are also available everywhere.

Matteo Carri - Sales

All can be paid with cash, and most also accept credit or UK debit cards.

Alessanadra Van Dyk - Egypt Operations

Staff member Carl Jackson travelled to Egypt recently with Exodus and you can read his article here to get a personal viewpoint of the country and its highlights.

Lesley Powell also gives us her insight into some of the highlights of Egypt here.

Please note that the holy month of Ramadan will take place from the 20th of July to the 18th of August 2012 (dates can shift slightly). This is a time when followers of Islam do not eat or drink between sunrise and sunset. This can sometimes affect the opening hours of certain tourist sites. However we will ensure that that the itinerary is affected as little as possible if you travel during this period. Food and drink is available to tourists during the day.

Brendan Phelan - Customer Operations

Yes, it is quite easily done everywhere. Just take a universal plug adaptor with you.

Matteo Carri - Sales

Please visit the Exodus Travel Guide to Egypt where you can find out what plugs they use, as well as more detailed Country information in the menu on the left of the page.

All the staff at Exodus share a passion for adventure travel, and are always happy to answer any questions you may have. You can find an expert for the area you are interested in here and can contact them to get further information. If you don't see your specific country listed, please email customerops@exodus.co.uk and they will get the answers you need!