Book cheap flights to Alexandria

The best time to visit depends on what you want when visiting Alexandria. During peak travel season, from October to May (mid-autumn to late spring) accommodation costs rise and the temperatures drop considerably from Egypt’s infamous heat, drawing more visitors. From May to October (Egyptian summer) temperatures rise, but so do the amount of hotel discounts. Let Travelstart help net yourself that dream holiday experience.

South African passport holders will need a Visa to enter Egypt. You will need to ensure that your passport will be valid for six months after your return and that there are at least two free pages available for stamps.

The South African Embassy in Egypt

Address: Building No. 11, Intersection Road 200 & 2003, Digla, Maadi, Cairo

Phone: 202 2535 3000

Alexandria has a low crime rate, but watch out for pickpockets and keep your valuables out of sight and in a secure place, such as a fanny pack. Street children, taxi drivers and others may harass you, but you should be able to get them to back off with a firm “la shukran (no thanks)!” or “emshi (go)!”

Several 3-, 4- and 5-star hotels are situated on Alexandria’s coastline, giving you quick access to some of the city’s golden beaches. Some include private beach access, rooftop pools, spas, gyms, and restaurants. The cost that you can expect to pay at these establishments ranges from under R 300 to under R 5000.

You have three options for getting around Alexandria: taxis, trams and buses.

The yellow and black taxis offer an affordable option, but you will have to be careful. Some drivers may take advantage of non-Alexandrians. Make sure you agree on the fare before you get in. A taxi ride between any two points in the city should not cost more than R 20. Should you wish to go to several places, the cost will rise. A day trip should cost R 8 to R 12 per place. If you want better quality, there are the Fast Call taxis, which cost more, but offer a better service than the black and yellow taxis.

The trams offer you two lines, at a flat fare of R 0.66 per line. Take note, though, the first car out of three in the blue trams are for women only.

The buses are the cheapest option, being priced between R 0.40 and R 1.20.