FAQ

Nilu specializes in small-group, high-expertise expeditions rather than mass tourism. We limit all journeys to 10 guests maximum. Our guides are Egyptologists, desert specialists, and marine naturalists with deep local knowledge. We focus on immersion and authenticity rather than checking boxes. Most importantly, we partner directly with local communities and ensure tourism benefits reach them.

Our guides average 15+ years of experience in their respective fields. Many hold degrees in Egyptology, geology, or marine biology. All undergo rigorous vetting and continuous training. We prioritize depth of knowledge over language skills—if a guide speaks limited English but possesses extraordinary expertise, we provide an interpreter rather than compromise on knowledge quality.

Most expeditions include moderate physical activity—walking at a steady pace, some climbing, occasional longer hikes. We can accommodate various fitness levels by adjusting itineraries. Tell us about any concerns during booking, and we'll design an experience that works for you. We've successfully hosted guests from ages 8 to 82.

Our all-inclusive price covers: accommodation (all rooms), all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), internal transportation, entrance fees to all archaeological sites and natural attractions, services of expert guides, equipment (desert camping gear, snorkeling equipment for Red Sea expeditions), water, and gratuities. It does NOT include international flights, travel insurance, visa fees, or personal items.

If you cancel more than 60 days before departure, we refund your deposit minus 10% administrative fee. Cancellations 30-60 days out: 50% refund. Less than 30 days: no refund. However, we strongly encourage travel insurance that covers trip cancellation—this provides coverage we cannot offer. We're flexible with dates if you need to reschedule.

October to April offers comfortable temperatures (18-28°C). May-September is extremely hot (35-45°C+) and less pleasant. October-November and March-April are ideal—warm but not excessive, with clear skies for photography. December-February is cooler and attracts more travelers (higher costs). Each season offers different wildlife and natural phenomena—spring brings certain bird species; autumn brings migration events.

Most nationalities require a visa. Options: (1) Tourist visa on arrival at Cairo airport (30 days, ~$25 USD), (2) E-visa via Egypt's official portal before travel (https://www.e-visa.gov.eg), (3) Visa from your nearest Egyptian embassy. Process typically takes 1-2 business days if applying in advance. Check requirements for your specific nationality at the Egyptian Foreign Ministry website.

Essentials: lightweight, breathable, modest clothing (respect local customs), sturdy walking shoes, sun protection (high SPF sunscreen, hat), sunglasses, reusable water bottle, medications (including anti-diarrheal and pain relief), toiletries, phone charger (220V, bring adapter), light jacket (for cool desert nights and air-conditioned spaces). For Red Sea diving: bring your own mask if you prefer. For desert camping: warm layers for nighttime. Avoid: bright neon colors, sleeveless shirts in public areas.

Egypt is generally safe for tourists in well-established areas. Nilu operates exclusively in secure, well-traveled regions with experienced guides. We maintain current security protocols, comprehensive insurance, and strong relationships with local authorities. We monitor political situations and adjust itineraries if needed. Your safety is our absolute priority. In 5+ years, we've never had a security incident with guests. Most travelers find Egypt safer than they initially expected.

Major cities (Cairo, Luxor, Aswan) have good private hospitals. We recommend travel insurance including medical evacuation. Tap water is generally safe in hotels but we provide bottled water. Traveler's diarrhea is common but usually mild—we include anti-diarrheal medication in our first-aid kit. No mandatory vaccinations, though Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, and Typhoid are recommended. Consult your doctor 4-6 weeks before travel. We carry comprehensive first-aid supplies and can arrange medical consultations.

We limit all expeditions to a maximum of 10 guests. This ensures intimate experiences, allows genuine interaction with guides and local communities, and permits access to sites that would be impossible with larger groups. Most groups range from 6-10 people. Smaller groups may combine with others if both parties agree.

Absolutely. We specialize in bespoke journeys for families, couples, and small groups. Contact us directly to discuss your interests, duration, budget, and specific requirements. We can modify existing itineraries or design entirely new experiences. Custom expeditions require a 4-6 week planning period. We've designed everything from romantic anniversary journeys to multi-generational family trips.

We accept: PayPal, international bank transfers, Fawry (for Egyptian customers), and Paymob. A 30% non-refundable deposit secures your booking. The remaining 70% is due 30 days before departure. For custom expeditions, payment is structured in 3 tranches. All payments are processed securely. We provide invoices and payment receipts for accounting purposes.

We carefully curate groups for compatibility. Before departure, we facilitate pre-trip communication among guests. During the expedition, our guides are trained in group management and ensure everyone feels included. We build in solo time for those who want solitude and group activities for community. Most groups become genuine friends. We've had several multi-expedition friendships develop.

You'll develop comprehensive understanding of: ancient Egyptian history from Old Kingdom through Islamic period, Pharaonic belief systems and theology, Nubian civilization and African connections, geology and natural history, contemporary Egyptian culture and challenges, local environmental issues, archaeological methods and ongoing discoveries. Most guests report that their understanding of human civilization itself deepens through encountering Egypt's scale and complexity.

You'll pick up basic phrases and vocabulary. Our guides teach practical Arabic—greetings, numbers, phrases for interacting with locals. We don't provide formal language instruction, but immersion in an Arabic-speaking environment means you absorb words and patterns. Many guests find this gradual exposure more enjoyable than classroom learning. If Arabic language study is a priority, we can arrange private tutoring during your trip.

(1) Contact us with your interests and dates, (2) We suggest suitable expeditions and explain details, (3) You complete booking form with personal information, (4) We send invoice and payment instructions, (5) 30% deposit secures your spot, (6) 70% balance due 30 days before departure, (7) We send pre-trip briefing and detailed itinerary, (8) You receive final confirmations 2 weeks before travel. If anything is unclear, we're available to answer questions.

Most international travelers fly into Cairo (CAI) via major international airlines. From North America/Europe: typically 10-14 hour journey with 1-2 stops. From Asia/Middle East: 4-8 hours. We can arrange airport transfers in Cairo. Some expeditions begin in other cities (Luxor, Aswan)—we arrange onward flights or can coordinate road transportation from Cairo. All flights are your responsibility, though we can provide guidance on optimal routing.

We strongly recommend (but don't require) comprehensive travel insurance including medical coverage, trip cancellation, and evacuation. We can recommend reputable providers. Note: many policies exclude "adventure activities"—ensure your policy covers diving, desert camping, and hiking. Your travel insurance is between you and the provider; Nilu carries comprehensive coverage for all operation-related incidents.

We carry comprehensive first-aid kits and can reach medical facilities within hours from most locations. Our guides receive first-aid training. Minor issues (headaches, stomach upset) are managed on-site. For serious conditions, we arrange immediate evacuation to hospitals in Cairo or Luxor. Your travel insurance should cover medical expenses. We also maintain emergency contacts and relationships with English-speaking doctors throughout Egypt.