So, you want to visit Egypt? Great choice. South Africans don't have to pay for an Egyptian visa. You still gotta apply for it in SA. I used Swiftline Visa Services because I find pre-trip admin tedious at the best of times.

I called several embassies before choosing my destinations to find out if their borders are indeed open. I first checked online but it never hurts to find out from the horse's mouth.

Many countries won't let you in if you haven't done a COVID-19 test. For Egypt, the test has to be less than 72 hours old when you arrive in Cairo.

I paid Lancet R850 for my test. Results take 24 hours. The test was not painful you guys, not even as intrusive as I thought it would be. I opted for specimen to be collected from my throat. It took seconds.

The airport (ORTIA). All departures from Terminal B. You will be asked for your COVID-test results several times. Have a hard copy instead of relying on text with results. Have it on email as backup.

I flew @EGYPTAIR as I wanted a direct flight. @flyethiopian also has flights to Cairo. Inflight experience was great. Cabin Crew policed the wearing to masks and social distance. We had a package with 3 pairs latex gloves, 4 sachets of sanitizers and 3 masks.

Cairo International at last! Like at OR Tambo, it takes minutes to check COVID test results and temperature. Short and sweet. Only ever use Uber to get to your hotel unless they offer FREE transport. Uber was 134 Egyptian Pounds. Hotel wanted to charge me $25, cabs 650EP.