Is Travel In Egypt Safe?

Published On : 21 Oct 2024

Egypt is a country which holds a lot of meaning and value when it comes to traveling to this country. Egypt has a history of more than 7000 years and culturally as well as archaeologically it’s a treasure trove and the people are immensely hospitable that is why tourism has always been one of the most significant parts of Egypt’s economy. However, political instability and crisis have raised questions concerning the safety of tourists in Egypt within the past decade. Is travel in Egypt safe during the year 2023?

The short answer is – it depends on where you are planning to visit and what safety precautions you take. Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, some of the Red sea beach destinations, and of course pyramids and other monuments and places of archaeological importance remain open for foreigners. The US State Department currently recommends that Americans avoid all travel to Egypt because of the presence of terrorism and instability in the country, and that Americans who are already in Egypt should avoid all border zones. Here is some background and tips on mitigating risks and staying safe on an Egypt trip:Here is some background and tips on mitigating risks and staying safe on an Egypt trip:

More Information about Safety and Security Concerns in Egypt within the Last Decade

Following the political changes of the 2011 revolution and the 2013 counterrevolution, Egypt experienced a volatile democratic process. Explosions and acts of terrorism struck government offices, tourist sites, security forces, and churches leading to insecurity. However, in the last 5 years, Egypt has been paying much attention to security and the tourism sector, which is still weak compared to the Arab Spring period. Presently police officers assigned to the tourist police unit have enhanced security conduct; archeological sites and museums, tourist resorts, airport and train stations, Nile cruise boats. Such measures include metal detectors and search of bags at the entry points to the facilities.

Current State of Safety

However, isolated acts of terrorism are still witnessed although the occurrences have reduced after the year 2017. The terrorism risk is considered to be especially high in Sinai and the western desert bordering Libya because of ISIS and al-Qaeda. These areas are currently active with military operations and continue to have a high threat level present. Some of the cities include Cairo and Luxor which are relatively safe as long as the tourist is cautious enough. Tourist hot and peaceful resort cities of the Red Sea, to which foreign tourists come without any recent attacks, include Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, Marsa Alam, and Dahab in South Sinai.

Tips for Staying Safe

Here are some tips for travelers to remain safe and avoid risky situations

Always hire the services of book tour and hotel transfers from companies that have the appropriate licenses and insurance. Avoid crowded public transportation.
Do not attempt to cross any picket lines or approach any political protests, clashes or large crowds.
It is forbidden to take photos of police/military forces, government offices, or facilities/devices.
Carry lots of small denominations of money because most traders lack small change for large bills. It is only safe to exchange money at the banks or any other accredited centers.
One should also be humble and should not flaunt his / her wealth.
Travel advisory: Request from hotels and guides which places are best avoided because of the higher rates of criminal activities.
For females, dressing modestly reduces the chances of being sexually harassed or attracting unwanted attention.
It is recommended to consult the government travel warnings before deciding which of the Egyptian location are safe to visit. Avoid all border areas and parts of Sinai as well.

Of course, Egypt is not as safe as Europe, for example, but in general, history lovers, archeology enthusiasts, adventurers, and culture freaks, who will follow several pieces of advice will not feel extremely unsafe in this country. Tourism is an important sector in Egypt and most people there would like visitors to have pleasant experiences and leave with positive attitudes. It is advisable that the responsible travelers should do their homework, be willing to learn, and close their unbelieving eyes and ears for the preconceptions they have developed about this cradle of human civilization to spoil the wonders that are embedded in every corner of the country.

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FAQ

Is it safe to travel to Egypt right now?

Yes, Egypt is generally considered safe for tourists, especially in major cities and tourist areas. However, it's advisable to avoid the Northern Sinai region due to security concerns. Most tourists visit areas like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan without issues

What about crime in Egypt?

Petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams can occur, especially in crowded tourist areas. Violent crime against tourists is rare, but it’s wise to stay alert and keep your belongings secure

Are there health risks for travelers in Egypt?

While Egypt has no significant risks for diseases like malaria, travelers should avoid drinking tap water and be cautious about street food to prevent foodborne illnesses. Staying hydrated and protecting against the sun is also important

Is public transportation safe in Egypt?

Public transport is generally safe, but it can be crowded and chaotic. It's recommended to use reputable taxis or guided tours for added security

What precautions should solo travelers take in Egypt?

Solo travelers can visit Egypt safely, but they should take common safety precautions, like avoiding isolated areas and being mindful of cultural norms, especially for women who may face more attention