Is Egypt Safe for Americans?
Egypt has been attempting to rebuild its tourism industry after a few years of widespread unrest that has ended the long rule of President Hosni Mubarak's military rule and is currently under the rule of Egyptian President Abdel-Fatah El Sisi. The rule of law, security and calm has been established once more. Egypt has not changed much really since the revolution as it has gone full circle back to military leadership.
Egypt Tours and Travel, Chicago Office
In general terms, Egypt is a safe country to travel to. Egyptians are very super friendly people - if you are in need of assistance, they will generally try to help you as much as they are able, more than anyone can imagine. For example, if you take a limo in Cairo, Egypt, you will be stopped at several checkpoint before leaving Cairo, if that limo is leaving the boundaries of Cairo. Police at checkpoints will ask where you are going and communicate with the next checkpoint to make sure you reach your destination within an acceptable amount of time. The same goes for most trips or excursions into the desert. There are also several checkpoints from Cairo to Sharm el Shiekh, Cairo to Hurghada, Cairo to Alexandria, Cairo to Luxor, Luxor to Aswan, Cairo to Aswan, Cairo to Fayoum, and so on, particularly when traveling by coach. Military officials do check identifications, to ensure the safety of tourists of anyone traveling to these areas.
As for casual crime of muggings and robberies, Egypt is still quite safe. As for pick-pocketing, really the problem is probably no greater than it is in most Western cities. In Egypt, the problem of cheating and scams when buying things in tourist places is likely more to doubling the price but is still relatively cheap with the exchange rate being around 16 Egyptian pounds to $1 ... tourists will find Egypt a bargain when it comes to shopping. Hotel staff do go out of their way to ensure your stay being a pleasant and memorable experience. Cairo has everything to offer and more. It is more exciting than a number of other big cities and is surprisingly very pleasantly cosmopolitan.
You will find the security situation in Egypt (as in many countries) is frequently exaggerated by Western media outlets, creating a negative impressions that is somewhat amplified by the heavy-handed policies of Egyptian authorities in keeping tourists safe. The reality is that traveling within Egypt is probably safer than visiting most Western capitals!
Egypt relies heavily on foreign tourism for a large chunk of its national income, and both Egyptians and their government are extremely keen to prevent any occurrence that might create a bad impression or a negative image that might keep tourists away from Egypt or the Egyptian antiquities. Tourism is one of the country's most important sources of hard currency, and besides not wanting any incidents that might slow down the traffic of tourists to Egypt. Egypt is very pragmatic and wants in no way to jeopardize a vital and rising economic benefit.
Egypt has a lot to offer to tourists, in general, Egypt is safe and welcoming to tourists. In many ways it is the same as it was 10 or more years ago, it is still safe to walk at night as this big city of 22-millions come alive and most Egyptians start socializing after 10:00 P.M. at night, all the restaurants and cafes are open late. The majority of Egyptians are courteous, polite, friendly and extremely helpful, particularly to tourists and Americans in specific. Tourist destinations are also safe to visit with the vast majority of tourists having no problems and end-up mostly with positive experiences.
The Egyptian Government maintains a heavy security presence at most major tourist sites in and around greater Cairo and Alexandria; at Sharm el-Sheikh, Hurghada, Marsa Alam, Luxor, Aswan, all beach resorts on the Red Sea and the Mediterranean coast of Egypt; and at many of the major temples and archaeological sites located in and around the Nile Valley cities of Luxor and Aswan, including Abu-Simbel.
You will not be at more risk than, say, France, Belgium, Mexico or any of the States of the United States itself. It is highly unlikely that you will be targeted because you are American. Egyptians do not dislike Americans by any means - on the contrary, most admire Americans, and many actually do like the current president Trump! during the U.S. election, Trump was much better favored than Hilary Clinton. Even with the authorities, US citizens are often given preferred status over Europeans and other nationalities, and in compliance with an agreement between the two governments some years ago, usually, Americans tourists in large numbers do have armed guards on tourist excursions outside of greater Cairo area.
Egypt Tours and Travel of Chicago Group, while visiting the Pyramids of Egypt
The incidence of crime, violent or otherwise, in Egypt is negligible compared with Western cities, and you’re generally safe walking around large cities, day or night.
Social Unrest
A 2014 protest law has made it more difficult for crowds to gather. This was explained by the current Egyptian government as intended to deter Muslim Brotherhood supporters from gathering in large numbers, as they had been doing on a regular basis. It has also made it more difficult for any other groups to gather masses to protest.
Terrorism
There was a spike in terror attacks in Egypt since the downfall of President Morsi in 2013. Almost all have been aimed at security and government targets, with the majority occurring in the North Sinai where Wilayat-Sinai (formerly Ansar Bayt Al Maqdis) and other jihadi groups are fighting against Egyptian military and police forces. North Sinai (above Taba) remains a no-travel region, while cautionary travel advisories remain in place for most of the South Sinai and parts of the Western Desert.
In response, President Sisi announced a three-month state of emergency. At the same time, Egypt has upgraded its airport security systems, bringing in a British aviation security consultancy. Unsurprisingly, there is a heavy security presence throughout the Egyptian airports, including the majority of Egyptian tourist sites and antiquities.
Bag & Wallet Snatching
Since 2011 bag and wallet snatching have been slightly on the rise, usually as drive-by. Don’t let this deter you: you’re still more likely to lose your wallet in Barcelona – and more likely to have your lost wallet returned to you in Cairo. To be safe, carry your bag across your body or at least on the side away from the street, and keep it looped around a chair leg in restaurants. Don’t walk on empty streets past 1:00 or 2:00 A.M. Be aware of your surroundings when you take your wallet out, don’t go to an ATM alone at night, and don’t flash a large number of bills.
Crafty Business
Shop-owners and hawkers will sometimes claim that an item is locally crafted. Some are, but many things you will be offered in souks, Bazaars and markets, and in shops around antiquity sites are mass-produced, some imported from China.
Money for Old Rope
Two of Egypt Tours and Travel clients are trying to wrap their hands around a Karnak Temple Column… Good Luck!!
Most visitors to Egypt's sites are offered something that looks like an antique. Antika is the word, with its suggestion of antiquity. Most things openly for sale are no older than the time it took for them to be covered in dust or faded by the sun after months, perhaps, occasionally years. If you were to buy actual antiquity and try to take it home, however innocently, you would be smuggling, it is a crime which can carry a prison sentence and a possible fine.
Hard-Luck Story
In taxis and elsewhere, you might be told a hard-luck story, which may involve a relative in hospital needing funds for drugs or an operation, or to buy materials to study or food to eat. You must decide for yourself whether it is better to give something, in case it is true, which it sometimes is, or turn away.
The Greatest Threat
The greatest threat to you on your journey in Egypt will be to your intestines. Many people visiting the country suffer from some sort of intestinal trouble, diarrhea and for a variety of reasons, from unfamiliar diet and lack of hygiene to contaminated food and water. The amount of food offered, usually considerably more than one eats at home, can also threaten your intestinal happiness. Eat moderately, at least at the start of your trip. Always use bottled water, for drinking and for brushing your teeth. Wash your hands before eating, don’t eat salad in Egypt, and make sure you peel fruits prior to eating them. And make sure you drink enough water during the day.
What to wear in Egypt, do I need to cover my hair in Egypt?
In short, no. As a tourist, part of a family, part of a group, or even a woman traveling alone to Egypt, you aren't expected to wear a scarf or any other hair or head-cover when touring Egypt. The only exception to this is, if you're visiting a mosque – in that case, you do need to respect the fact that you're entering a religious building and cover-up, usually, just a regular scarf over the hair will do, just for females.
Do I have to wear long sleeves all the time?
Again, no. Tank tops and strapless tops are generally frowned upon, as are tops that reveal too much cleavage, unless you are in a beach town like Sharm-El-Sheikh, Hurghada, Marsa Alam, in Luxor, in Aswan, or on a Nile Cruise ship. But as for arm coverage, the general rule is to make sure your shoulders are covered, in towns like Cairo and Alexandria. Covering your elbows is polite, but you won't get too much-unwanted attention if you go out in a normal t-shirt.
Can I wear capris in Egypt?
Yes! Just like you don't always need to wear long sleeves, you don't always need to wear long pants in Egypt. Capris are acceptable for women as long as they cover your knees.
Does all my clothing have to be super baggy?
While skin-tight clothing isn't always considered modest, you don't have to pack baggy, shapeless clothes as a woman in Egypt. Obviously the more you emphasize curves, the more attention a female might receive. However, most local Egyptian women and the educated class of Egyptians, do dress quite modern – you'll see skinny jeans everywhere! the go-to travel bag is, of course, usually a cross-body one. They're much more secure, as they're more difficult to steal while you're wearing them.
Is there any time I can just wear what I want while touring Egypt?
Generally speaking, you need to try to adhere to local customs when I travel. It's just respectful, and also makes your travel experience more positive. This isn't to say that you won’t see tourists wearing tank tops or short shorts in Egypt, you will see woman at a temple in a short, strapless romper! also on a Nile river cruise, things are generally more relaxed on these Nile riverboats since you're surrounded by other tourists. For example, you can wear your bathing suit, bikini on the sun deck and in the pool. Topless sunbathing on Nile cruise boats is a bit insensitive.
Egypt suggested packing list (for women)
Clothing, these are only suggestions
2 dresses, midi/maxi – maxi dress, which has pockets
1 maxi skirt, the flowy type of skirt
2 pairs of capris
1 pair of skinny jeans for evenings
2 pairs of leggings
1 tunic top
2 long tops with 3/4-length sleeves
3 to 5-t-shirts
1 tank top
2 long-sleeved jersey wrap tops
Breathable underwear
1 light jacket
1 or 2-pairs of sneakers
1 pair of walking sandals
1 scarf (one a hidden pocket travel scarf)
1 packable sun hat
Don’t also forget…
Life-straw water bottle
Travel toilet paper rolls
Hand sanitizer, which is crucial for public bathrooms in Egypt
Toiletries like sunscreen, contact solution, and moisturizer
Solid shampoo/conditioner
First aid kit with Band-Aids, motion sickness pills, pain killers, Imodium, and rehydration salts
Small convertible cross-body bag
Theft-proof backpack
Surge protector/power strip
Travel adapter, Egypt does use the same wall plugs as Europe
Insurance while traveling to Egypt
Travel insurance is highly recommended, for the entirety of your trip in Egypt. Even if you have U.S. health insurance, usually this would not cover you when traveling overseas. You may be covered under your regular insurance plan, but you most likely won’t. Even if you are covered health aspect wise, if your Egypt vacation is interrupted due to a family emergency, sickness, either prior to the commencement of the trip or during the trip, then the travel insurance will be helpful and can cover your penalties.
Portable wifi in Egypt
If you don't want to rely on patchy hotel wifi, you might want to look into traveling with a portable wifi hotspot like a Skyroam. Skyroam works by connecting you to a local mobile network
What if I'm going to Egypt in summer?
If you're traveling to Egypt during the summer months, can be hot, you'll still need to cover up – so make sure to pack light, breathable fabrics, white colors, cotton clothing, and some extra pieces in case you need to change outfits during the day. Egypt summer weather is dry heat, so you won’t be exposed to plenty of unbearable heat.
Good shoes
Take sandals with you almost everywhere as long as the weather isn't supposed to be cold. Not only are these sandals comfortable and supportive for walking, but they're also perfect for a destination like Egypt. Why? Because everything in Egypt is dusty, it is mostly a desert after all, and unlike sneakers, you could easily rinse these sandals off in the shower every night. If you prefer covered shoes, then take light and easy to pack, preferably if they're machine washable, meaning you can easily wash all the dirt off them when you get home.
Cairo, Egypt
Please do not venture in street food in Cairo, the main primary reason, dust blowing around the city. This dust sometimes have serious bacteria and pollution from the smoke around the city. The only food we recommend is from the restaurants recommended by your Egypt Tours Egyptologist or tour manager, well-reputed hotel chains, and 5-stars Egyptian restaurants. Or in worst cases, keep Ramen Noodles handy and only fruits that you could peel off. Keep dry nuts handy, most likely take it with you from home.
Water
Never venture drinking or brushing your teeth with tap water or use ice, since it’s mostly made out of tap water.
Shopping for Egyptian Novelties
Items in Egypt such as Papyrus painting, (marble, alabaster, granite), Egyptian cotton garments, souvenirs, Egyptian hand-knotted carpets, spices, and perfumes. Keep this principle in mind; you only get what you pay for. Like in other countries, tourists are the targets, for fake items, such items which are the specialty of a state are not hawked in the streets/or laid on the side streets/or flee markets, unless they are purchased from a showroom, well-established shop. Most likely it will not make it to your country back home. However, it is a good memory. To buy real authentic things from Egypt, is an art, connection, eye for the tests of real things, for example, purchase original Papyrus painting/alabaster statue/Gold items/Gold Cartouches, are also art/science/knowledge/ yes indeed the real thing forever to enjoy.
Safety
Do not take out a purse or a wallet loaded with the cash to buy a bottle of water. Keep small change handy. Keep all kind of small bills.
Bargaining
Unless it is high-end showroom/ international franchise, be prepared to bargain
How to stop unwanted advances and flirting
Egypt is relatively safe for ladies, even if traveling alone. However, people and hotel staff, usually think that Western women traveling alone as an easy target. It is Western culture and their nature to smile, socialize, being polite and converse. However, in Egypt. Egypt is a country where females are somewhat reserved and have limited liberties. Rule of Thumb: Your friendly gesture and behavior could be taken to another dimension, therefore please keep this in the back of your mind — just the business not more or not less.
Tipping
Tipping in the country of Egypt and Jordan is a way of life, in reality In Egypt “ Bakshish” is a standard word, which means reward/tip, you do not have to give anything if you do not want too. But rest assured they will chase you endlessly until you breakdown. Always, pay the agreed price and move on, or do not respond or say sorry I paid you enough.
Victim of frauds
Do your very best to avoid any shady deals and great buys that is offered to you in Egyptian Bazaar. Because there are none, it is all myth. No one is going to sell you a piece of the Pyramids or a Treasures of King Tut. Therefore do not run after the rainbow. And become a victim in the first place.
Boat rides/camel rides/horse rides/horse buggy ride scams
Be extra careful and settle everything before riding these things, all these are operated in Mafia-style. All these people swarm you like flies, and basically, they try to intimidate you to get more and more out.
Egypt Traffic
Car-honking/traffic, mostly & especially in large cities like Cairo and Alexandria can feel hectic, but you’ll see that the loudness/overt chaos is merely part of the rules of the place… just learn to not think of the noise as so threatening, because they aren’t. Like any other country, Egypt has its advantages and disadvantages. If you’re talking about the terrorism, bombing, abduction, and so on… We can assure you that it’s very very safe, even though Egypt is targeted by some terrorist organizations across the middle east, but safety is notably increased during the past years.
Some other aspects you have to consider, though, before traveling to Egypt, to enjoy it the most:
Try to avoid traveling during the month of Ramadan; as most of the people there are fasting during the day, and their mood, in general, is not quite well.
Be prepared to pay lots of tips wherever you go, and for many services that don’t require tips in other countries. So, it’s a good habit to keep some change in your pocket.
Egyptian food is marvelous, addictive and slightly fatty. So, consider spending some time in the gym every day
People are very generous, kind and conservative. So, don’t expect that all what you do there is accepted.
We do not know why people make such a simple question so complicated. Briefly and to make your life easier. Yes, Yes, and Yes, it is safe to travel to Cairo, or all around Egypt. Do not believe the propaganda and rumors. Actually, safer than many countries. People in Egypt, are very lovely and kind; they would welcome you no matter what. They would even feed you even if they do not have food themselves. You will find no such manners in any other country.
Egypt is a very safe country to visit but you need to make a good preparation before arriving so that you can enjoy your time. .We advise staying in touch with our Cairo, Egypt Tours office all the time. Moreover, Egypt is well know as one of the best tourism destinations in the world with very reasonable prices.
The Impressive Sites and Antiquities of Egypt, by Egypt Tours and Travel
The world is not a safe place, but if you consider America safe then yes Egypt is safe.
Here are reasons why Egypt is safe
When there’s an attack in Egypt, countries will ban or advise against traveling there. However, terrorism in Europe frequently occurs and yet no one advises against traveling to France.
There are over 22-million people living in the city of Cairo alone. If it was unsafe you would hear thousands of horror stories every day.
Egypt’s economy relies heavily on tourism. Egyptians may try to rip you off on the pricing of some souvenirs, but they wouldn’t hurt you because they know how devastating an impact it could have on them, their economy and by-nature, Egyptians are peaceful people.
The Grand Egyptian Museum, Egypt
Cairo is huge. In general it is safe, but there are some sketchy places like any major city.
Cairo is full of tourists and chances are you will bump into someone from your home country, as all tourists do generally frequent the same places in Cairo, Luxor and Aswan.
Hotels are heavily protected, and it is rare to hear of any incidents occurring in Cairo or any other big city.
Egyptians are friendly, and many will go completely out of there way to help you fall in love with their country.
A recent article on CNN has recommended Egypt as currently one of the leading destinations of the world in 2019. This is welcome news to one of the world’s richest touristic environments. This is the third year that CNN recommends Egypt for travel. Of course, the news of the unveiling of dozens of newly discovered mummies had created a lot of buzz for travelers to book Egypt as their next destination.
Furthermore, the ministry of Egyptian Tourism announced that 2020 was the strongest year for tourism in recent years while anticipating 2021 to be even better.
