This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers. Egypt Tours Plus recommends that people traveling alone should rather use taxis for getting around after sunset. We strive to provide the most relevant travel information on the web and always appreciate input from our readers (nicely, please!). Day 8: Day Trip To Cairo. I also visited fantastic Egypt in Africa and mesmerized with archaeological wonders such as the Giza pyramids, Nile cruise, and many. The most popular spots for water activities are Sharm el-Sheikh, Hurghada and Dahab. Top tips for female travellers visiting Egypt. Exercise increased cautionin Egypt due tothe Embassys limited ability to assist dual national U.S.-Egyptian citizens who are arrested or detained. Have a good money belt to protect your cash. Your laptop deserves a proper pack, and we know a good few! When you are traveling solo, it goes without saying that you must stay in touch with your family and friends. Their food health standards are also held to a different standard than what you and your stomach may be used to (Delhi belly is not solely reserved to India). Travel advice and advisories for Egypt The political turmoil that started with mass protests in 2011 and led to a government overthrow has mostly stabilized, although travelers should be alert to the possibility of terrorist attacks. For long distances, train, which is the cheaper one I found while coming back from Alexandria to Cairo. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. U.S. citizens have been detained for participating in protests and for posting content on social media perceived as critical of Egypt or its allies. Otherwise, thanks for your ear and stay safe! But, even if you're only on your own during transit to and from Cairo airport, it really helps to be covered up as much as possible. Is Egypt SAFE to Visit? Here, you will find safety knowledge and advice for travelling Egypt. Yes, Egypt is a very safe country to visit. However, what separates Egypt from other countries is its religious tradition and culture. And while no destination can ever be guaranteed as 100% safe, there are certain precautions one can take to minimize potential problems and issues. As long as you practice general safety precautions, you should be all set to have the time of your life. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. When carrying around cash and identification, keep it safe by putting it in a money belt or some other pack that's inaccessible to pickpockets. Egypt is a magical place that attracts travelers from all over the globe. Check out 12 things you should know before visiting Egypt. And there were the pyramids. ", "Fleeing war, poverty, African migrants face racism in Egypt.". When choosing where youll be staying in Egypt, a bit of research and caution is essential. Fortunately, with a bit of research and careful planning, you can minimize the likelihood of encountering any unexpected surprises during your visit. That being said, Egypt might be victim to an exaggerated reputation for treating female tourists poorly. In our opinion, it is now very safe to visit these South Sinai resorts. Egypts major cities have many unmaintained roads and walkways, meaning that a broken ankle is only a misstep away. Day 5: Day Trip To Dahab. It is so important that you bring with you an open mind and sense of humor. Design Your Custom Tour. October 31, 2015 a Russian plane bombed leaving Sharm El Sheikh. When it comes down to it, travelling with children in Egypt is safe, but stressful, and not as clean as youll want it to be. There have actually been some big rail crashes in Egypt in recent years. Itll still feel busy at places like the Giza Plateau but almost every other place was never over-packed with tourists which is how things were before. Egypt can be safe for female travellers but it will not be easy for them. For more information on safety for LGBTQIA+ travelers in Egypt. ), I asked my friend and fellow blogger Katie Foote of Gypsy Soul . Its important that youre aware that in Egyptian culture itsnot the norm for females to travel alone. Mind me, traffic is not so pleasing in Egypt, and an unorganized traveler might have to spend a lot of time just wandering here and there. Simply say La Shukran (meaning no thank you) and walk on. There are no travel advisories in place for popular tourist spots in Egypt such as Cairo, the cities along the Nile including Luxor and Aswan, and resorts by the Red Sea such as Sharm el-Sheikh . Women traveling alone are likely to receive more attention than those traveling with a man or a mixed group, so joining an organized tour is one way to blend in while also getting the most out of sightseeing. Travellers diarrhea is common in Egypt so try to be careful. The question of Is Egypt Safe? will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on the parties involved. Despite the trouble, its safe to travel solo in Egypt. Everyone always thinks it wont happen to me! but thats how you end up in a foreign hospital with an upset stomach and no way to pay for the IV thats stuck in your arm. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Catcalling is unfortunately common in Egypt, but touring with a guide might eliminate some of the harassment experienced. By that we mean there will always be people popping up, Travelling by yourself might mean taking a lot of selfies, which is a little bit lame . Take basic precautions to avoid becoming a victim, such as being hyper-aware of your valuables in crowded areas like train stations and markets. When visiting internationally popular tourist destinations like Cairo or the Pyramids, locals are accustomed to seeing visitors from all parts of the world. Most locals would tell you that they barely noticed that a revolution was happening because theyre so removed from those issues. Possibly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. From the sound of crackling pavement to that of rustling sand, I slowly caught on that I was in the middle of the Sahara desert: Just my horse and I in the blind. Try a museum and food tour around Cairo or a full-day tour to see the Pyramids. So, is Egypt safe to travel alone? Check here before booking an award fare. Egypt travel advice - GOV.UK For the most part, it is very safe, and even solo travelers can enjoy a perfectly safe trip without experiencing any dangerous or stressful situations. Compare the cost in points or miles to cash, and see which option is best. Shop Blog Contact Media Kit Newsletter Sign up for Newsletter Sign up for travel updates, tips, and inspiration! Related: Egypt opens 4,600-year-old Bent Pyramid to the public. Apart from certain areas in cities like Cairo and Giza, there are also some parts of the country which are best avoided due to safety concerns and the threat of attack by armed groups. The air was so much cooler out on the water and the breeze felt revitalizing blowing through my hair and over my skin. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". I visited Egypt when I was a law student, and my guide in Luxor informed me there is a student discount. Sharm El Sheikh has very robust tourism infrastructure and a high level of security. How Much Does Solo Travel in The Maldives Cost and is it Worth it? I would suggest asking your tour provider for a solo traveler package so that you can enjoy a hassle-free holiday. While I myself haven't visited Egypt (yet! Mostly, yes, Egypt is safe for women, especially if travelling as part of a group, or a family. Is Egypt safe to travel to in 2023? | Finder Woman in temple looking at hieroglyphics. At Egypt Tours Plus, you will find a fantastic selection of high quality Egypt tour packages. A certified Egyptologist will ensure you know what youre looking at and can deepen your connection to the country's history. The Best 2 Weeks Egypt Itinerary For Solo Female Travelers Important Tips for Traveling to Egypt As A Solo Woman - Trips In Egypt If youre into scuba diving or snorkeling, any of the towns along the Red Sea should be on your radar. By clicking Accept All Cookies you agree with the use of analytical and tracking cookies. The general answer is yes if you exercise reasonable precautions No trip or country will ever be 100% safe, but the State Department only recommends increased caution while visiting Egypt. In this post, I discuss safety issues in Egypt, particularly for solo female travelers. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. Is it Safe to Travel Solo in Egypt? - Days to Come - TourRadar Guides help you navigate away from common scams. U.S. Department of State. The national rail system is outdated and not kept in the best condition. Egyptian police have been known to create fake profiles and use them to entrap individuals, so it's best to avoid them completely. I bought a Vodaphone SIM for 16 USD. While most Western governments are calling on travellers to avoid all travel within the Sinai Peninsula, Sharm el-Sheikh (a popular resort city with stunning beaches and reefs) and everywhere within its perimeter is considered the only exception to these travel warnings. Ultimate Solo Travel Guide To Egypt | My Own Way To Travel Is it safe to travel to Egypt? | Intrepid Travel Other popular destinations in Egypt include Abu Simbel, Aswan and Alexandria. In Egypt, the delicious fare is seemingly endless. Crime, on the whole, is fairly low, thoughsexual violence against women, including tourists, is something that has happened and continues to happen in Egypt. Sign up for travel updates, tips, and inspiration! If you are longing to explore Egypt, we can help, and with more than 500,000 tours already sold, we really do know how to make dreams come true, with lifetime memories guaranteed. Despite popular belief, Egypt does indeed get chilly. As has been said earlier, exploring the streets on foot after the sun has set is not recommended. March 6, 2020; Human Rights Watch. Our simple meal included gaburi bread, gibna gemeli (camel cheese) and gabana coffee all prepared with nothing more than an open fire, water, and twigs. Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. If you attempt to bring one to the airport, it will be confiscated. The phrase if its too good to be true it probably is comes to mind. Luxor, like Cairo, is an obvious choice for most since it offers some of the best and most popular sites in the country. And Egypt is seriously COOL! Remember to book a registered tour agency, which is only trustworthy. There are ongoing military operations in various parts of the country, and it is not a good idea to get close to them. Solo travelers in big cities like Cairo or Alexandria should exercise the normal precautions they would take when visiting any large city, including being alert to pickpockets and avoiding nighttime strolls in seedy neighborhoods. Egypt is generally a very safe country for tourists, including tourists who are traveling alone. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message. That being said, you should still make use of your travel common sense to avoid any trouble and keep up to date with local and international news. The U.S. Embassy may have a limited ability to provide consular services to dual U.S.-Egyptian citizens. With that said, solo travelers should avoid exploring quiet areas on foot after sunset. You should completely avoid North Sinai and travelling near the Libyan border due to the terrorist threat. Top tips for female travellers visiting Egypt - Lonely Planet And I knew in my bones that if I had let go for a second, Id fall and break something: my camera, my limbs, my head, my dignity. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens anywhere in the Sinai Peninsula as U.S. government employees are not authorized to travel to these areas (with the exception of the beach resort of Sharm El-Sheikh; travel to Sharm El-Sheikh is only permitted by air). We were one of the very first group of travelers to ever traverse long stretches of the Eastern Desert solely by bike. "Egypt Traveler Review." Theyve been doing it since 2002 protecting, connecting, and inspiring independent travellers just like you. World Nomads mission is to support and encourage travellers to explore their boundaries. These fees can add up over time, especially if youre trying to see several throughout your trip, as you should. There is even a selection of great Egyptian festivals to get involved with! Get to know about top must-try food in Egypt to taste during your first visit. Like anywhere, people are often a lot kinder to tourists who bring their kids, but this doesnt mean that your kids cant get you in trouble! But its pretty damn special too. Knowing where youre going and planning your routes ahead is a really good idea if you dont want to attract attention. You can also know online about the entry fee of every place, along with its timings. Egypt has long been a destination for tourists that includes those with families. Same-sex marriage and activity is not legal, so you might even get in trouble with the law. Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation. Try to avoid crowded areas (admittedly a difficult task in big cities like Cairo), which may be targeted for potential attacks. We'll run a soft credit check to find special offers, but it wont affect your credit score. Now, only the. Egypt may be under threat of terrorism, and it may be politically unstable, however, the thousands of tourists who DO visit have mostly trouble-free visits. For more information: Where You Should Travel in 2021 Based on Your Favourite Cocktail, Two-Weeks in Vietnam Itinerary: North to South, The Seven Hardest Hikes in the US, Ranked. For an explanation of our Advertising Policy, visit. Between the pandemic, ever-worsening cultural division, and a click-hungry media, it can be hard to maintain what is truth and what is sensationalism. Day 1: Arrive in Sharm El-Sheikh. Share your experiences and top tips to visit Egypt alone. Eliminates the need to navigate local transit or driving yourself (including military check points). Is it safe to travel Egypt now in 2023? Vaccines for typhoid and hepatitis A are recommended for all travelers by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention before entering Egypt, but not compulsory. A majority of our time was spent outside of Cairo. Sexual harassment is sadly prevalent on subway trains around the world, but the Cairo metro always has at least one car reserved exclusively for female passengers. She's hitched to the four corners of her homeland, traipsed the trails of the surrounding Arabic world, and now whittles away her days living the sunny Bali expat life where shoes are a long-forgotten thing of the past! Women travelers who have questions about safety should discuss any safety concerns they have with their tour guide and/or with staff at the hotel where they are staying. Solo travelers need to keep a keen watch on their expenses to complete their trip within budget. Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. Is Egypt Safe? One Solo Female Traveler Fills Us In - Jessie on a Journey When you are in an unfamiliar city, you have no way of knowing which areas to avoid. Jillian Dara is a freelance journalist and fact-checker. Walking around at night by yourself? During my two days trip to Bahariya Oasis, the local guide didnt take to visit the natural hot spring of the Valley of El Haize on the first day. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, USA Today, Michelin Guides, Hemispheres, DuJour, and Forbes. However, some sites wouldnt accept my New York City student ID card. In short, yes, despite what you may have heard Egypt is a safe place for tourists to keep on their bucket lists. Travel Advisory October 5, 2022 Egypt - Level 3: Reconsider Travel O T Last Update: Reissued with updates to health information. Here are some quick tips for staying safe in Egypt: If Im travelling on my own to a potentially contentious area where situations can deteriorate without warning I opt to travel on tour. The reason being that I can have my independence and also my peace of mind knowing that theres an entire company in charge of managing where I go and what I see, with the safety of myself and my fellow travellers considered their top priority. It seemed as every gallop would be the last thing I would ever hear. December 29, 2018 3 Vietnamese tourists and local guide killed by roadside bomb that hit a bus near the Giza pyramids. Modest (not tightly fitting) clothing, covering your arms, shoulders, and legs down past your knees and for swimming when youre not on a private beach wear shorts and a T-shirt over your swimsuit. Whether you want to devote your entire holiday to visiting Egypts many major tourist sights, or whether you want to spend your Egypt vacation relaxing at a coastal resort like Sharm El Sheikh, you can have an amazing time in this amazing country. It does not store any personal data. Visitors should also avoid all travel in the north Sinai region. There are long prison sentences (or even a death sentence) for drug possession/use. As if the muezzins were telling me to look alive, the morning adhan was beginning to resonate among the distant city lights of Cairo. Is It Safe to Travel to Egypt as a Woman? Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. For more information U.S. citizens should consult theFederal Aviation Administrations Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices. Most sites are grandiose in size, so a wide-angle lens will serve you well. Yes! Here she is with My Own Way To Travel to share her adventures on the road. Having recently returned from a second trip to Egypt, I've found that Remember that drones are prohibited. Accessibility, Is Egypt Safe for Travel? One morning, I had the opportunity to share breakfast with local Bedouin nomads. Never pay the first price offered by a local vendor, and use your bargaining skills to get whatever youre purchasing for a little bit cheaper. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. All might not be the same, but it is a wise idea not to overtrust anyone when youre wandering alone in Egypt. It helps in avoiding a pile of unnecessary clothes and stuff that only add to your baggage. That being said, you should avoid entering the area of Sharm el-Sheikh any other way, but by air to avoid any trouble. Consider taking a tour . Read our, same-sex acts are not technically prohibited, "Egypt: Security Forces Abuse, Torture LGBT People.