Is Egypt safe to travel for women - My Egypt experience and travel tips (2024)

Do you want to explore Egypt but wonder, ‘Is Egypt safe for women travellers?’ I have visited Egypt for over a week, and here is everything I experienced as a female tourist in Egypt. 

Egypt has always been a country shrouded in myths, but thanks to its cultural differences, political unrest, and various government warnings, it has managed to stay out of reach for many travellers.

Let me share my experience of travelling to Egypt and exploring this misunderstood country for over a week. Is Egypt safe to travel to? It absolutely is! But that was the question I was asked numerous times before I landed in the Middle East. And the astonishment continued even after I came back.

If you are not comfortable travelling alone to Egypt, small-group tours like Cairo and Giza Highlights are quite helpful. Group or solo, here’s everything I know when it comes to ‘is Egypt safe for women?’

Government warnings

Different governments around the world have been advising against visiting Egypt or at least reconsidering your travel plans due to the threat of terrorist activities.

When you read something like this, the common question comes up: ‘Is Egypt safe to travel to?’ Are these warnings not true?

When the UK government says, ‘Female travellers should exercise caution when travelling alone, particularly at night, in buses, taxis and microbuses,’ I understand if you feel ‘Is Egypt safe for women?’

To put your mind at ease, Egypt is perfectly safe, even for solo female travellers, as long as you adhere to the dress code and respect Egyptian culture.

Regions like North Sinai and Western Desert are prone to terrorist activities and need to be avoided.

It is also not recommended to visit the Libyan and Sudanese borders. But all these areas do not offer anything to tourists.

Cities like Cairo and Alexandria are extremely tourist-friendly, welcoming everyone with open arms.

You can check this 8-day Egypt itinerary to know which cities to visit and how to plan your days.

Internet safety – Best VPNs for Egypt travel

The internet in Egypt has improved significantly in terms of connectivity in the recent decade. But, internet restrictions are still there and sometimes, during political protests, internet blackouts are common.

You can buy a SIM card locally when you land in Egypt, or you can consider an eSim as well.

I recommend using a VPN for travel in Egypt, no matter how many days you spend there.

It will help you encrypt your data and protect your privacy. I found it a great tool for a secure internet experience.

ESims – Local charges and safety

One of the best ways to ensure you stay safe (your number doesn’t get identified as an international one) and hence stay away from scams is to get a local sim.

Of course getting one also implies you save a lot on roaming charges and international calls and data.

Rather than get into all the hassle that comes with applying for one, once you land in Egypt – the best alternate is to get an ESim and Simlocal is a reliable service for the same and its as easy as choosing your plan, setting things up and done!

Here’s a discount code for you if you plan on using Simlocal – CONTINENTHOP!

Laws and cultural differences

Egypt is vastly different from any other European country you may have visited.

The local customs and laws are followed rigidly and what may be completely okay in your country, like public display of affection, is frowned upon in Egypt. So much so that it may lead to locals interfering and asking you to leave that area.

Drinking is allowed only in a licensed bar or a resort. You cannot carry any kind of drugs or alcohol while wandering around the streets.

Even the medication that is okay in your country may not be allowed here. So, keep these things in mind when learning about Egypt solo female travel.

If you are visiting Egypt during Ramadan or paying a visit to a mosque or any other religious site, adhere to the dress code.

Modesty is taken very seriously in Egypt. If you are at a resort or a beach hotel, you may be allowed to wear a bikini. But any kind of clothing that doesn’t cover your shoulders and knees will not be tolerated outside.

LGBTQ+ community is not publicly accepted in Egypt and same-sex couples are likely to face negative comments when in Egypt.

Safe accommodation in Egypt

If you are travelling solo, then I would recommend booking a stay with popular hotel chains in the city centres instead of opting for apartments or homestays.

If you know reliable homestays, then sure, go ahead and enjoy the Egyptian hospitality. But if you are travelling to Egypt for the first time, then here are some hotels I would recommend –

Fairmont Nile City – this 5-star hotel in Egypt has professional staff and a lovely location right across the River Nile, ensuring you have a safe and memorable stay.

Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir Cairo – Steigenberger is one of the top Cairo hotels set near major tourist attractions like the Egyptian Museum, Khan El Khalili Bazar,, and El Tahrir Square. Its luxurious rooms with all the amenities and its convenient location will help you explore Cairo comfortably.

The Grand Plaza Hotel Smouha – this is one of the best hotels in Alexandria where you can book a room without worrying about safety. It is located in the heart of Alexandria with a 24-hour front desk ready to help you whenever you need anything.

Public transport and getting around in Egypt

When it comes to navigating the streets of Egypt safely, there are different options to choose from according to your comfort level.

Cairo metro helps connect some of the major areas in the city, with tickets starting from EGP 8 for 1 to 9 stops. It covers the heart of the city pretty well but has yet to connect to the Cairo International Airport. If you are wondering, ‘Is Egypt safe for women travellers?’, consider using the carts reserved for women passengers. The same goes for Alexandrian trams, where you can travel safely within the city limits.

But, when it comes to exploring areas outside of metro connectivity, booking a taxi is necessary. There are local taxis in Egypt, but the problem is unfair prices and aggressive taxi drivers in some touristy areas. Uber is available in Cairo and Alexandria, making it a preferred choice for Egypt solo female travel. It will also give you a history of taxi drivers to understand who is driving you around. I found Uber quite easy to book and safe in Egypt.

The bus and train system is a great way to explore smaller cities and towns in Egypt. If you are dressed modestly and stick to daytime travel, you will not face any problems with Egypt’s public transport.

If you are not sure about using public transport, the best way to experience the magic of Egypt safely is to book day trips like Alexandria Catacombs, and Citadel Tour with Lunch.

Is Egypt safe to travel? Tips for safe Egypt travel

Get acquainted with local customs—public displays of affection, even holding hands, are not acceptable. Ensure you follow and respect local customs when in Egypt.

Dress modestly—wear dresses that cover your shoulders and knees. This is recommended, especially when you are in a bazaar or a mosque.

Carry a headscarf—Many women travellers carry a headscarf as a sign of respect. You can also use a regular scarf when in Egypt, as it helps draw less attention.

Basic phrases in the local language – knowing phrases like laa (no), shukran (thank you), and salām ‘Alaykum (hello), helped me when travelling in Egypt.

Check the reviews before booking accommodation – when booking a hotel, always check the reviews and if possible, opt for a stay that is reviewed the best by female travellers in Egypt.

Use reliable transport and tours – Opt for flights to travel between major cities like Cairo and Luxor and then book the Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut Temple Day Tour to explore Luxor safely.

Do not share unnecessary information – avoid sharing any personal information, including your hotel address, social media handles, or permanent phone number.

Avoid travelling at night—I suggest avoiding night travel unless absolutely necessary. Even then, always go with the trusted transport option.

Avoid social or political protests – Do not criticise the Egyptian government or make any negative remarks about the political situation. Locals do not take it lightly when the country is criticised.

Photography equipment – If you carry professional photography equipment or want to use a drone to capture videos, you will need authorization from the government.

I have spent over a week in Egypt and my experience was all positive.

So, if you are still wondering ‘is Egypt safe to travel?’, then go ahead and book your Egypt holiday. You will love how great this country is!

FAQs – Is Egypt safe to travel?

• Is Egypt safe for tourists now?

Egypt is safe for tourists, but it is always important to check the political situation for any kind of escalations and then confirm your travel plans for Egypt.

• Are Egyptians friendly to tourists?

Yes, Egyptians are warm and friendly to tourists and welcome travellers from around the world with open arms. But, for this to happen, you need to respect the local culture and traditions.

• How safe is Cairo?

Cairo is an extremely safe city in Egypt. There are petty crimes like pickpocketing, but that is also uncommon.

• Are the pyramids safe to visit?

Pyramids are safe to visit, but you may experience aggressive local vendors or even tour operators asking you repeatedly to book a tour with them.