Things To Do
in Al Waqf

Slow-cooked fava beans flavored with lemon, garlic and oil; a common breakfast available at markets and small roadside stalls.

Must-Try!

Crispy fava-bean patties, often served in baladi bread with salad and pickles; ideal from street vendors for a quick, inexpensive meal.

Fresh Nile fish simply seasoned and grilled over coals; found at local eateries near the river or markets when fish are in season.

Skewered grilled meats often served with rice or bread; common at small family-run restaurants and grills.

Daily market with fresh vegetables, fruit, sugarcane, spices and bread; try freshly squeezed sugarcane juice and buy seasonal dates or figs.

Small food stalls and coffeehouses serve quick breakfasts (ful, taʿamiya), tea and simple grilled items—perfect for sampling local street food.

Upper Egypt is conservative—dress respectfully (cover shoulders and knees) to avoid unwanted attention, especially for women. Loose, breathable clothing is best for heat.

A polite greeting (Salam) and a handshake are common; hosts may insist you accept food or tea—accept politely or offer thanks. Removing shoes when entering private homes is customary in some households.

Ask permission before photographing people, particularly women and children. Be cautious taking pictures of certain government buildings or infrastructure.

During prayer times and Ramadan, show respect—avoid eating or drinking in public during fasting hours and be discreet near mosques during prayers.

Tipping (baksheesh) is common for small services: a few Egyptian pounds to attendants, 5–10% in restaurants if service isn’t included, and small tips for guides, drivers and hotel staff. Carry small denominations for convenience.

Cash (Egyptian pounds, EGP) is the primary means for markets, food stalls and local transport; ATMs are available in larger towns like Qena and Luxor but may be limited locally, so bring sufficient cash. Credit cards are accepted at some larger hotels and restaurants but aren’t reliable for every vendor.

Very hot and dry, with daytime highs often above 35–40°C (95–104°F). Travel early and late in the day, stay hydrated, wear sun protection and avoid strenuous activity midday.

Temperatures become more comfortable, with warm days and cooler evenings—excellent for sightseeing and outdoor photography; occasional dust winds may occur.

Mild days and cool nights (daytime around 18–22°C / 64–72°F, nights can be chillier). This is the most comfortable time for full-day excursions and archaeological site visits.

Warming temperatures and possible khamsin (hot dry wind) days—good time to travel but monitor weather for dusty conditions and plan early starts.

Vegetarian travelers will find many plant-based staples like ful, taʿamiya, salads, rice and vegetable stews readily available; clarify preparation if you avoid animal fat (ask if dishes use butter/ghee).

Many dishes can be vegan but verify ingredients—ask vendors about butter, yogurt or ghee in stews and insist on oil-based preparation when needed.

Most meat sold and served is halal in Upper Egypt, but if you have specific preferences confirm with the restaurant.

Bread is a central part of meals; gluten-free options are uncommon—carry snacks if you have strict gluten allergies and communicate clearly about ingredients.