Traveling safely in Egypt, like any destination, requires careful planning, awareness of local customs, and adherence to common safety guidelines. Egypt is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history, ancient monuments, and vibrant culture. If you haven’t read my overview on traveling safely I recommend you check that our here. To have a safe and enjoyable trip, consider the following tips:
- Be aware of your surroundings:
- This is the most important safety tip for any travel destination. Pay attention to your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night. If you feel unsafe, trust your gut and move to a safer location. There is always more safety in numbers as other travelers can help stay vigilant. If you feel unsafe, remove yourself from the situation.
- Stay informed about the latest travel and health advisories:
- The US Department of State, the Canadian government, and other governments issue travel advisories for different countries. These advisories provide information about the safety risks in a particular country, such as crime, terrorism, and health risks. It is important to check the travel advisories for China before you travel.
- Research and Planning:
- Before your trip, research the current political and social situation in Egypt. Check travel advisories issued by your government and gather information about the areas you plan to visit.
- Obtain all necessary travel documents, such as a valid passport and visa.
- Health Precautions:
- Consult your healthcare provider about necessary vaccinations and health precautions before traveling to Egypt.
- Drink bottled water and avoid consuming tap water or ice made from tap water to prevent stomach issues.
- Local Laws and Customs:
- Respect local customs, traditions, and laws. Egypt is a conservative country, and modest clothing is recommended, particularly when visiting religious sites.
- Avoid public displays of affection, especially in more conservative areas.
- Safety in Public Spaces:
- Be cautious of your belongings and watch out for pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and tourist sites.
- Stay vigilant in crowded places like markets and transportation hubs.
- Transportation:
- Use reputable transportation services and licensed drivers for taxis and other forms of transportation.
- If you’re planning to rent a car, be aware that driving in Egypt can be chaotic. Familiarize yourself with local traffic rules if you plan to drive.
- Tourist Sites:
- When visiting tourist sites like the pyramids or temples, it’s a good idea to hire a local guide or join organized tours for added security and insights. This is such a problem people run into in Egypt that I have a whole section on this below.
- Political Demonstrations and Public Gatherings:
- Stay informed about local news and avoid political demonstrations or gatherings, as they can sometimes escalate into incidents.
- Communication:
- Have a reliable means of communication, such as a local SIM card or an international roaming plan, to stay connected with loved ones and in case of emergencies.
- Emergency Contact Information:
- Keep a list of important phone numbers, including the nearest embassy or consulate, local emergency services, and your country’s embassy or consulate in Egypt.
- Stay Informed:
- Stay updated on local news and developments throughout your trip. This can help you make informed decisions about your activities and travel plans.
Unfortunately local scams can be an issue in many tourist destinations, including Egypt. Being aware of common scams can help you avoid falling victim to them. Here are some local scams that travelers should be cautious of in Egypt:
- Camel/Horse Ride Scam: At popular tourist sites like the pyramids, you might encounter individuals offering camel or horse rides at seemingly low prices. However, they might demand exorbitant fees after the ride or insist on tips, catching you off guard.
- Unofficial Guides: Some individuals may approach you claiming to be unofficial guides who offer to show you around the site. While some might be knowledgeable, others may provide inaccurate information and then demand high fees for their services.
- Fake Tickets: Be cautious when purchasing tickets to attractions. Scammers might sell you counterfeit tickets or overcharge you for entrance fees. Always buy tickets from official ticket counters or authorized vendors.
- Bazaar and Market Scams: While shopping in markets, be prepared for aggressive sales tactics and haggling. Some vendors might inflate prices, especially for tourists, so it’s important to negotiate and know the approximate value of the items you’re interested in.
- “Gift” or “Friendship” Scams: Strangers might strike up friendly conversations with tourists and then offer to give them a “gift” or souvenir. Later, they’ll demand money for the gift, catching you off guard.
- Spurious Police Officers: Scammers might pose as police officers and ask to see your identification or search your belongings, claiming to be on the lookout for counterfeit money or drugs. Always ask to see proper identification, and if you’re unsure, insist on going to the nearest police station.
- Currency Exchange Scams: Only exchange money at authorized currency exchange offices or banks. Some street vendors might offer to exchange money at favorable rates, but you could end up with counterfeit currency.
To avoid falling victim to these scams and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience, in addition to the points I listed above consider the following tips:
- Official Guides and Tours: As mentioned earlier, hiring official guides or joining organized tours is a good idea. This reduces the likelihood of being scammed and provides you with accurate information. You can find official guides through places like tourist information centers, your hotel, online travel forums, or tourist websites and apps.
- Assertiveness: Politely but firmly decline unsolicited offers and requests for money. Trust your instincts; if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Being able to say no is a requirement to successfully navigate many of the tourist sites.
- Use Licensed Services: Stick to licensed taxis, official tour operators, and reputable transportation services.
- Stay Confident: Scammers often target individuals who appear unsure or confused. Maintain a confident demeanor and avoid looking lost.
- Ask Locals: If you’re unsure about something, ask trusted locals or staff at your accommodation for advice.
Remember that while Egypt offers incredible historical and cultural experiences, practicing caution and common sense is essential to ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey. Always be respectful of the local culture and people, and use your best judgment in unfamiliar situations. If you found this post useful or have additional tips please add them in the comments below!
