Let’s get proper to the large query: Is Egypt secure to journey? For the traveler that knowledgeable and ready, the reply is sure, and it’s an extremely rewarding vacation spot. We’ve explored the nation ourselves a number of occasions and might inform you that standing earlier than the Pyramids of Giza or wandering via the temples of Luxor is an expertise that stays with you perpetually.
But it’s additionally not a visit to take frivolously. Egypt is an intense and infrequently chaotic place that requires a unique degree of consciousness than, say, a highway journey via Canada. The challenges are actual, from persistent touts to widespread journey scams, and it’s essential to go in along with your eyes open.
We consider in trustworthy, real-world recommendation that can assist you journey higher. In this information, we’re breaking down the whole lot you really have to learn about whether or not it’s secure to journey to Egypt. We’ll cowl the present scenario on the bottom, widespread scams to keep away from, particular recommendation for solo feminine travellers, and our greatest sensible suggestions from our personal journeys.
Is Egypt Safe To Travel Right Now: Quick Summary
For these wanting for a fast reply, right here’s our abstract of the protection scenario in Egypt.
Overall Risk: Medium. While violent crime in opposition to vacationers is uncommon, petty crime, scams, and harassment are widespread. Situational consciousness is crucial. While the danger of terrorism exists, assaults focusing on vacationers are uncommon and safety has been elevated at main websites.
Popular Tourist Areas: Major vacationer websites like Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and the Red Sea resorts are closely policed and usually thought-about secure.
Solo Female Traveller Risk: High. Solo girls will seemingly face persistent and undesirable consideration. We suggest hiring a trusted information or becoming a member of a small group tour.
Common Scams: Be ready for scams involving taxis, bazaar retailers, and unofficial guides. Always agree on a value beforehand.
Tap Water: Not secure to drink. Stick to bottled or filtered water always.
Our Top Tip: Hire a licensed information or be a part of a good tour, particularly for main historic websites. It drastically reduces hassles and enhances the expertise.
Why Does Egypt Have a Reputation for Being Unsafe?
It’s a sound query, and the priority doesn’t come from nowhere. For many people, our essential publicity to trendy Egypt has been via information stories overlaying a decade of intense political change and remoted safety incidents.
The 2011 Revolution, a part of the broader Arab Spring, was a pivotal second of political unrest for the nation. While it was basically a home political occasion about the way forward for Egypt, the pictures of mass protests and instability had been broadcast globally. This interval of upheaval understandably made many travellers hesitant, and the tourism business, which is a crucial a part of the nation’s financial system, took an enormous hit.
We had been in Egypt simply after the revolution, and sure, there have been loads of safety forces and Egyptian police round, however we did really feel secure.
In the years that adopted, there have been additionally a number of remoted however severe safety incidents that focused vacationer areas. These tragic occasions had been extensively reported and additional solidified the notion of danger within the minds of potential guests.
However, you will need to place these occasions in as we speak’s context. The scenario on the bottom has stabilized considerably. In response to previous incidents, there’s now an enormous emphasis on vacationer safety, with a visual police and army presence in any respect main websites, inns, and alongside the primary journey routes.
While no nation is 100% free from danger, the occasions of the previous have led to a few of the most stringent safety measures you’ll discover wherever on the earth.
Current Egypt Travel Advisory & Security Situation
Before any journey, we at all times suggest checking the official journey advisories out of your authorities, like Global Affairs Canada or the U.S. Department of State. These advisories can sound intimidating, typically utilizing cautious language. It’s their job to tell you of each doable danger, from petty crime to political instability.
Check the Current Travel Advisories right here:
The key’s to grasp that these warnings are sometimes for the whole nation and don’t at all times replicate the scenario in the primary vacationer areas. There’s an enormous distinction between the favored journey hall (Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and the Red Sea) and the areas which can be explicitly suggested in opposition to, just like the North Sinai Peninsula or the western desert on the border with Libya.
We keep in mind studying the advisories earlier than our first journey, and to be trustworthy, it gave us a second of pause. But as soon as we had been on the bottom in Luxor, surrounded by native households and different travellers exploring the temples, the sensation was certainly one of pleasure, not worry. It’s reminder that whereas advisories are an essential device, they don’t at all times seize the complete, on-the-ground expertise.
Is Cairo, Egypt Safe? What About Other Cities?
Yes, Cairo and different main cities on the vacationer path are usually secure, however it’s essential to keep in mind that Egypt is a big nation, and the expertise might be very totally different from one place to a different. The vibe in bustling Cairo is a world away from the relaxed tempo of a Nile-side city or a Red Sea resort.
Safety in Cairo
Cairo is likely one of the world’s nice megacities. With greater than 20 million folks, it’s crowded, chaotic, and extremely vibrant. We’ve spent loads of time navigating its streets, and whereas the power can really feel overwhelming, we by no means felt personally unsafe. The essential considerations listed here are petty crime, like pickpocketing, in crowded areas just like the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, and the wild site visitors. Use widespread sense: maintain your valuables safe, and look each methods (three or 4 occasions) earlier than crossing the road.
Safety in Luxor and Aswan
Once you journey south to Luxor and Aswan, the tempo slows down significantly. Life revolves across the Nile, and these cities really feel extra manageable than Cairo. The major problem right here isn’t crime, however the “hassle factor.” You will probably be approached continually by folks attempting to promote you a carriage experience, a felucca experience, or a tour.
In Aswan, we will need to have been supplied a ship experience 100 occasions simply strolling alongside the river. A agency however pleasant “La, shukran” (No, thanks) and persevering with to stroll is one of the best ways to deal with it. It might be tiring, however it’s extra of an annoyance than a real security risk.
Safety in Red Sea Resorts (Sharm el-Sheikh, Hurghada)
The Red Sea resorts are a totally totally different world. Places like Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada exist in a “resort bubble” with a heavy concentrate on tourism and safety. You will typically go via a safety checkpoint on the roads main into these areas. Within the resorts themselves, the ambiance is relaxed and the largest security considerations are the identical as some other seaside vacation spot: watch your belongings and don’t overdo it within the solar.
When you see journey warnings for Egypt, they’re nearly at all times referring to 2 particular areas: the Sinai Peninsula (however not the Sharm El Sheikh resorts) and the western desert. These usually are not locations for unbiased journey, and any important journey there would require an armed escort for safety.
Common Scams and Annoyances in Egypt
Part of the journey expertise in Egypt is navigating the fixed gross sales pitches and customary scams. Foreknowledge is your finest defence. Most of those are extra of an annoyance than a hazard, however figuring out what to look for will make your journey a lot smoother and prevent some cash. For instance, when somebody provides photograph ‘assistance’ at a vacationer web site, they typically anticipate a small tip, recognized regionally as ‘baksheesh’, in return. Here are just a few of the most typical ones we’ve encountered.
The “Come See My Shop” Approach
You’ll be strolling close to a market or temple, and a pleasant native will strike up a dialog. After a couple of minutes of pleasantries, they are going to inevitably invite you to their cousin’s or brother’s store for a “special price.” This is a quite common and usually innocent tactic. The finest response is a smile and a agency, “No, thank you” as you proceed strolling.
Aggressive Taxi Drivers
This is a basic journey rip-off worldwide. A driver would possibly inform you their meter is damaged after which quote you a ridiculous value on the finish of your experience. To keep away from this, at all times agree on the fare earlier than you get into the cab. Better but, use a ride-sharing app like Uber or Careem the place the value is fastened and tracked within the app.
The Papyrus or Perfume Shop Detour
Our information in Giza was improbable, however he was very eager for us to go to a “government-approved” papyrus institute. We went together with it and it was an attention-grabbing, if prolonged, gross sales pitch. Many guides or drivers obtain a fee for bringing vacationers to those particular retailers. It is completely effective to politely decline by saying, “Thank you for the offer, but we’d prefer to spend more time at the temple.” A good information will at all times respect your needs.
Photo “Assistance” for a Fee
At main websites, somebody could provide to take a photograph of you from a “perfect spot.” After they’ve taken just a few pictures along with your digicam, they are going to then demand a hefty tip (baksheesh) for their service. If you don’t wish to pay for this, simply politely refuse any provides for assist along with your pictures from the beginning.
Health & Hygiene in Egypt
Staying wholesome is a large a part of having fun with your journey. A little little bit of warning and pre-planning can go a good distance in ensuring you are feeling your finest whereas exploring.
Can you drink the faucet water in Egypt?
Let’s be direct: no. You shouldn’t drink the faucet water in Egypt. The native water system isn’t handled to the identical requirements that guests are used to, and it comprises totally different micro organism that may simply result in abdomen upset.
Always persist with sealed bottled water. We even suggest utilizing bottled water to brush your enamel as an additional precaution. It may appear overly cautious, however it’s a easy step that may prevent from a day or two of discomfort.
Food Safety & Avoiding “Pharaoh’s Revenge”
The dreaded traveller’s abdomen is an actual concern for many, however you don’t need to dwell in worry of the meals. We ate loads of scrumptious meals, together with road meals, and had been completely effective by following just a few easy guidelines.
Eat at busy locations. A restaurant or meals stall in style with locals means excessive meals turnover and more energizing elements.
Choose cooked meals. Hot, freshly cooked dishes are at all times a safer guess than meals that has been sitting out, like uncooked salads.
Peel it or overlook it. Only eat fruit that you would be able to peel your self, like bananas and oranges.
Be cautious with ice. Unless you might be in a high-end resort, it’s finest to ask for your drinks with no ice, as it might be constructed from faucet water.
What vaccinations do I would like for Egypt?
We are journey specialists, not medical professionals, so it’s important that you simply seek the advice of along with your physician or a journey clinic earlier than your journey. They can provide you personalised recommendation primarily based in your well being historical past.
Generally, they are going to guarantee your routine vaccinations are updated. They might also suggest further vaccinations comparable to Hepatitis A and Typhoid, that are widespread for journey in lots of elements of the world.
Is Egypt Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
Egypt is a difficult vacation spot for solo feminine travellers, however it may be travelled safely by following just a few key precautions. It is a really totally different expertise from travelling as a person or as a pair. The essential situation is the excessive degree of verbal harassment and undesirable consideration you might be more likely to obtain.
Speaking from my (Deb’s) perspective, it’s a nation the place you continually have to have your guard up. While this consideration is sort of at all times a case of annoying catcalls or persistent staring relatively than a bodily risk, it may be mentally exhausting over time and might detract from the unbelievable expertise of being there.
This isn’t to say you shouldn’t go. Many girls journey solo via Egypt and have an incredible time. But being ready is the important thing to a profitable journey.
Here is our greatest recommendation for solo feminine travellers:
Dress Conservatively. This is our prime tip. By overlaying your shoulders and knees and carrying looser-fitting clothes, you present respect for the native tradition and can entice far much less undesirable consideration. A light-weight scarf can also be an amazing device to have available to cowl your head when coming into mosques.
Consider a Tour or Guide. Especially for a primary go to, becoming a member of a small group tour or hiring a non-public information could make a world of distinction. It means that you can concentrate on the historical past and fantastic thing about Egypt with out having to navigate the hassles by yourself.
Be Confident. Walk with function and challenge confidence, even if you’re feeling a little bit misplaced. Avoid extended eye contact and don’t be afraid to be agency and say “no” loudly if somebody is bothering you.
Wear a Fake Wedding Ring. It’s a easy trick, however carrying a plain band in your ring finger will help deter some undesirable advances.
Use Ride-Sharing Apps. Stick to Uber or Careem as a substitute of hailing taxis on the road. It offers a digital document of your journey and driver, and the value is ready prematurely.
Top 10 Safety Tips for Egypt
Here is a fast abstract of our most essential security suggestions for visiting Egypt. Following these will assist you keep secure, keep away from hassles, and concentrate on the unbelievable expertise of your journey.
Hire a Licensed Egyptologist/Guide. A good information is price their weight in gold. They won’t solely carry the traditional websites to life however can even deal with logistics and maintain touts at bay, making your day infinitely extra pleasurable.
Dress Conservatively. Show respect for the native tradition by overlaying your shoulders and knees. Looser-fitting, light-weight clothes is probably the most snug and acceptable choice for each the local weather and the tradition.
Never Drink the Tap Water. This is a non-negotiable rule. Always persist with sealed bottled water for consuming and even for brushing your enamel to keep away from getting sick.
Learn to Say “La, Shukran”. A agency however well mannered “No, thank you” in Arabic is the simplest technique to take care of persistent sellers and touts.
Always Agree on a Price First. Before you get in a taxi or comply with a carriage experience, affirm the value with the motive force. This easy step prevents arguments and scams later.
Keep Valuables Secure. Use widespread sense. Don’t flash costly jewelry or money, and maintain your pockets and cellphone in a safe entrance pocket or a zipped bag, particularly in crowded markets.
Purchase Travel Insurance. Things can and do go mistaken once you journey. Having good journey insurance coverage from a supplier like World Nomads or SafetyWing is crucial for peace of thoughts.
Be Mindful of Your Health. Stick to freshly cooked scorching meals and fruit you possibly can peel your self to attenuate your danger of abdomen points.
Share Your Itinerary. Always depart a replica of your journey plans with somebody again house so that they know your common whereabouts.
Trust Your Gut Instincts. This is the golden rule of journey. If a scenario or an individual feels off, it most likely is. Don’t be afraid to take away your self from any scenario that makes you are feeling uncomfortable.
Should You Use a Tour Operator or Group Tour?
Yes, for most first-time travellers to Egypt, we extremely suggest utilizing a good tour operator. While we frequently journey independently, for a rustic like Egypt, we extremely suggest utilizing a good tour operator or becoming a member of a small group tour, particularly for a primary go to. The worth it provides to your journey when it comes to each enjoyment and peace of thoughts is gigantic.
Here’s why we expect it’s a wise alternative:
It Eliminates the Hassle. This is the one largest benefit. A good information and operator will deal with all of the logistics, from shopping for tickets to arranging transportation. Most importantly, they act as a buffer between you and the persistent touts, permitting you to truly benefit from the websites.
You Get Invaluable Context. Exploring a 4,000-year-old temple is spectacular, however having a professional Egyptologist clarify what you’re seeing brings the historical past to life in a manner no guidebook can.
It Adds a Layer of Security. Navigating a brand new nation might be intimidating. Having an area information who is aware of the customs and a small group of fellow travellers offers a welcome sense of safety and help.
It’s More Efficient. Tour operators know the very best occasions to go to websites to keep away from the worst of the crowds and the noon warmth. You’ll seemingly see extra, and in better consolation, than for those who had been arranging the whole lot by yourself.
This doesn’t imply you possibly can’t journey Egypt independently, as many individuals do. However, it requires quite a lot of endurance and planning. For a primary journey, we consider the advantages of an organized tour far outweigh the prices. It streamlines the expertise and means that you can concentrate on the magic of the place, not the frustrations. We typically e-book day excursions via websites like GetYourGuide or Viator to vet native operators.
What Should I Wear in Egypt?
Deciding what to put on in Egypt is about balancing consolation for the warmth with respect for the conservative tradition. For each women and men, we suggest light-weight, loose-fitting clothes that covers your shoulders and knees.
This isn’t nearly coming into non secular websites; dressing extra conservatively will assist you mix in and might considerably cut back undesirable consideration, particularly for girls. Think linen trousers, lengthy skirts or attire, and t-shirts or blouses relatively than tank tops. A light-weight scarf is probably the most helpful accent you possibly can pack, excellent for solar safety, a bit of heat on a cool night, or for girls to make use of as a head overlaying when visiting a mosque.
The Verdict: So, Should You Travel to Egypt?
So in spite of everything that, we come again to the large query: do you have to journey to Egypt? Our reply is a particular sure, however on one situation: you must be a ready and conscious traveller.
Let’s be clear, Egypt isn’t a vacation spot the place you possibly can fully swap off your mind. There are areas to keep away from, because the official journey advisories level out, and the hassles in the primary vacationer areas are actual. It is a rustic with a fancy current in addition to an impressive previous.
But from our expertise, the reward massively outweighs the challenges. The need to welcome travellers again is one thing you possibly can really feel from the folks you meet. Responsible tourism is extremely essential right here, and there’s a shared understanding {that a} secure and constructive expertise for guests is essential for the nation’s future.
For us, the possibility to face within the shadow of monuments constructed 1000’s of years in the past is a real privilege. If you’re a traveller who’s resilient, affected person, and armed with good info, we consider it’s best to completely go. It is a visit that can problem you, awe you, and keep on with you lengthy after you’ve gotten come house.
Frequently Asked Questions about Egypt Travel Safety
Yes, taking a Nile cruise is taken into account one of many most secure methods to see the key historic websites between Luxor and Aswan. The boats are safe, and all journey is completed throughout the closely protected vacationer hall.
For police, dial 122. For an ambulance, dial 123. It’s a good suggestion to save lots of these in your cellphone, together with the contact info for your nation’s embassy in Cairo.
Most travellers, together with these from Canada, the USA, and the UK, want a visa to enter Egypt. These can sometimes be obtained on arrival on the airport or prematurely via the official e-Visa portal.
We don’t suggest driving in Egypt. The site visitors, particularly in Cairo, is extraordinarily chaotic, and driving guidelines are very totally different from what most guests are used to. For transport, it’s a lot safer to depend on respected tour operators, home flights, trains, or ride-sharing apps like Uber.
Yes, Egypt could be a improbable vacation spot for households. Egyptians adore youngsters, and your youngsters could act as an icebreaker. However, the warmth, lengthy journey days, and chaotic cities might be difficult for little ones, so we suggest becoming a member of a family-focused tour with a slower tempo.
Absolutely. Haggling is part of the tradition in markets and bazaars just like the Khan el-Khalili. The first value you might be quoted is never the ultimate value. Always be well mannered and maintain a way of humour, and don’t be afraid to stroll away for those who can’t agree on a value you’re snug with.
The official forex is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). While some tour operators or inns could settle for US Dollars or Euros, it’s finest to make use of Egyptian Pounds for day by day bills like meals, taxis, and market purchases for the very best charges. ATMs are extensively out there in cities.