I have read that many people have gotten their visa upon arrival in Cairo. Contiki has stated that they do not recommend this??? Does anyone have any advise/suggestions about this?

Thanks a-lot!!!
Liz

Hey Liz,

I was looking at getting mine when I arrived. But with 2 factors, I decided against it and decided to get it from the Consulate in Australia before I left to start holidays.

1. Exchange Rate - $25US I think is the price in Cairo while it cost me $40AUS to get it now - just about $ for $ on cost.

2. Guarantee that will not turn me down for a entry visa now as I have already have mine in my passport before arrival.

My Recommendation - if you can get it before you leave it is just another thing you do not need to worry about when you arrive, the last thing I want to do is stand in a line to get a entry visa and then stand in line to clear customs.

I am sure a lot of people on the forums will say get it when you arrive. Both points are valid it just depends on when you want to get it.

The Visa is easily obtained upon entry and the booth that you obtain it from is the currency exchange booth.
Its not really much of a bother really as most people need to exchange their currency.You just tell the clerk that you need a visa and also are going to exchange currency and its all done in the same transaction.The lines are actually cleared quite fast so as far as time is concerned it may be an additional 10 minutes at the very most.The line for immigration clearance is also quite fast and would entail a wait of around 10-15 minutes. Customs officials tend to only bother the locals and let virtually all tourists through immediately.

Unless you live in the ACT , its going to cost anywhere from A$70-100[depending on state] for your travel agent to have your passport courier registered to the consulate.So a visa could potentially cost as high as A$140 for essentially a sticker.

Thank you both for your advice!!

I got my visa in Canada and not Egypt because I didn't want to risk any delays in the airport. It was worth it because I personally find the Cairo airport to be a bit of a hassle.
Who knows, maybe it's different for others.