Safety in Egypt

Yes, Egypt is safe in the standard tourist areas (Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Aswan, the Red Sea coast and Alexandria), and violent crime against visitors is rare. The real day-to-day problems are scams, persistent hassle and traffic. Save the Tourist Police number: 126.

Is Egypt safe? In the standard tourist areas (Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Aswan, the Red Sea, Alexandria), yes. Violent crime against visitors is rare. What you are more likely to meet is scams, hassle and traffic.

Emergency numbers

Tourist Police are posted at the main sites and speak some English.

Scams to watch for

The "free" guide

Someone attaches himself to you at a temple as a "guide" and then asks for a large tip. Say no politely from the start.

Overpriced camel and horse rides

"Ten minutes for 50 EGP" becomes two hours and 1,000 EGP. Agree the price and the duration before you get on, in writing if possible.

The papyrus or perfume "factory"

A taxi driver or guide insists on stopping at a "school" or "factory" because he earns commission on overpriced souvenirs. Say "khallas" (enough) and move on.

Wrong change

This happens especially with new notes (the 200 EGP and 20 EGP look alike). Count your change and refuse damaged notes.

"Closed today"

A stranger near a big site tells you it is closed and suggests an alternative, usually a relative's shop. It is not closed. Keep walking.

Fake police

Real police carry ID and don't collect "fines" on the spot. If in doubt, suggest walking together to the nearest Tourist Police post.

Hassle at the Pyramids

Buy tickets only at the official booths and ignore everyone else. Camel touts can be pushy, so give a firm "la, shukran" (no, thank you) and keep moving.

Traffic: the real risk

Cairo traffic is chaotic. To cross a road, walk at a steady pace alongside locals and drivers will steer around you. Wear a seatbelt and, where you can, choose Uber Comfort or XL.

Areas to avoid

• North Sinai (not the Red Sea coast): a military operations zone, closed to tourists.
• The Western Desert near the Libyan border: special permits required.
• Some parts of Upper Egypt off the tourist trail: overland travel is restricted and convoys may be required.

The classic tourist circuit (Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel, Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh, Dahab, Marsa Alam, Alexandria) is well policed.

Women travelling alone

• It is generally safe, but expect more verbal hassle than at home.
• Dress modestly (see what to wear).
• A wedding ring, real or not, can make life easier.
• Use the women-only carriages on the Cairo Metro.
• Trust your instincts: if a taxi feels wrong, get out and book a trusted car with driver or an Uber.

Practical tips

• Carry a copy or photo of your passport and leave the original in the hotel safe.
• Keep a second wallet with small notes for awkward situations.
• Watch for pickpockets in Khan el-Khalili and on crowded transport.
• Travel insurance is essential, especially if you dive.
• For longer stays, register your trip with your embassy (Polish citizens can use the Odyseusz system).

Other hazards

• Sunburn and heatstroke: far more likely than crime.
• Stray dogs in some areas: don't approach them.
• Jellyfish and sea urchins on the Red Sea reefs: water shoes help.

Stomach trouble: the pharmacy fix

The "safety issue" you are most likely to face in Egypt is an upset stomach from food or tap water. If it happens, ask in any pharmacy for Antinal (nifuroxazide, an intestinal antiseptic) or Streptoquin (streptomycin sulfate, sulphaguanidine, kaolin and pectin). Both are sold over the counter and very cheap (about 30–60 EGP a box), and local pharmacists recommend them from day one. Add ORS sachets and plenty of bottled water. The health guide covers the rest.