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Helena Blackburn
Cristytravels
After exploring some of Egypt’s main tourist cities, Cairo, Giza, and Luxor, I can absolutely tell you it is safe to travel here. However, as with traveling to any new country, there are always things people should be aware of. Be sure to consider the difference between a country’s general safety and low-level crime, and other safety concerns. I’ve traveled with friends who have had their wallets stolen in Paris. It doesn’t mean Paris isn’t safe; it just means that as a tourist, you need to be aware of your surroundings since you are a target for small petty crime. To keep your belongings secure, consider using money belts, concealed pouches, and secure places to store valuables. Here I’ve listed some good travel tips to give you a better idea.
Stay informed by monitoring local news for updates on security situations, travel restrictions, and safety concerns. The Egyptian government has been working to enhance security measures, especially in tourist areas and public transportation hubs. Prioritize personal safety by exercising caution, staying informed, and respecting local customs and laws.
While exploring the wonders of Egypt, such as Cairo, Giza, and Luxor, it’s advisable to stay within designated tourist zones. These areas are generally well-monitored and offer a secure environment for visitors.
Opting to dine within your hotel provides a familiar and secure dining experience. Hotels often maintain high standards of food safety and security measures. If you have booked a reputable guided tour and have lunch at a local restaurant listed on your itinerary, this is also very safe.
The tap water in Egypt is not safe to drink for most travelers. If you are brushing your teeth or washing your face it’s perfectly fine. If you are ordering a cocktail or a soda with ice at a reputable hotel this is also ok to drink.
Although I felt very safe in Egypt, I would not recommend traveling to Egypt on your own without a tour company. Many tour companies offer pick-up directly at the airport upon your arrival and will have a representative with you at all times, except when you’re at your hotel. If you decide to venture off on your own, of course, that would not be the case. The tour company we used, Memphis Tours, offers this service, and we had a representative with us at all times.
If you’re not working with a trusted tour company, it is advisable to check in with local authorities for travel advisories and safety concerns.
Egypt has a rich ancient history; booking your trip through a trusted tour company can significantly enhance your experience. Most tour companies are guided by Egyptologists who can really help bring this history and story to life. Working with a tour company will also help you maximize your time here since there is a lot to see at different locations.
When visiting iconic sites like the pyramids or Luxor Temple, be prepared for a bustling atmosphere. There will be a lot of locals offering goods/services such as knick-knacks, photography services, or camel rides. It’s absolutely safe to buy these things, and if you are interested, bring cash, and you can negotiate a good price. Just keep in mind if you are a window shopper like me, it could get you into trouble. If you express any interest in what they are selling without the intention to purchase, you will get haggled into submission. Egyptians are strong salesmen. Respecting local customs, such as dressing modestly and avoiding public displays of affection, is also important for a safe and respectful experience.
Understanding the currency and navigating the local customs can be a big tip 😉 The EGP, or Egyptian pound, is the primary currency used throughout the country. Like many nations, Egypt has suffered greatly with inflation. Currently, 1,000 EGP is equivalent to about 20 US dollars. I highly recommend to do a currency exchange either at the airport or within your hotel upon arrival. Most establishments prefer cash payments over cards however, even if you don’t anticipate making additional purchases, it’s customary to tip in Egypt, as the tip culture is deeply ingrained in the local society. Having some local currency on hand for tipping purposes is recommended to show appreciation for services rendered and to navigate social expectations seamlessly.
The absolute best months to visit Egypt for optimal weather are February to March. The temperatures are warm with plenty of sunshine, yet they still offer a pleasant breeze and cool nights. A great escape for those living with cold winters. Some sources even recommend visiting through April, but I have friends who have told me that even in April, the weather can be too hot. If you’re looking to pinch some pennies, you may find discounts during the summer months, as travel to Egypt can be unbearably hot. Due to our schedule we opted to go at the end of March and still had very beautiful sunny days and cool nights.
Egypt is a treasure trove of ancient wonders, offering a myriad of destinations to explore. Where to go is of naturally going to depend on time. If you are looking to see the highlights like us, I would recommend starting your journey in Cairo, where the Great Pyramids of Giza and the iconic Sphinx await, along with the captivating exhibits at the Egyptian Museum. From Cairo you can easily take a day trip to visit Memphis and Saqqara where you will see the Grand Temple and palaces along with the remarkable first Pyramid of Djoser.
Next take a quick flight into Luxor to immerse yourself in the splendor of Luxor Temple and Karnak Temple, where tales of ancient Egypt really come to life amidst breathtaking architecture. In Luxor you’ll also visit the Valley of the Kings and Queens.
For a refreshing change of scenery, don’t miss the opportunity to relax and unwind by the stunning shores of the Nile River at one of the resorts. We stayed at the Hilton Luxor and really enjoyed the vibe by the pool overlooking the Nile River.
If you’re looking for a bit more of a coastline experience in Egypt, consider visiting Sharm El-Sheikh, a popular destination among beach lovers and scuba diving enthusiasts, known for its strong security presence and safety for tourists.
From ancient wonders to scenic landscapes, Egypt offers an unforgettable adventure for every traveler.
Whether you are working with a tour guide or company, I would recommend telling them that you want to start your days early. If you can begin your day visiting the sights around 8 a.m., you’ll not only have less waiting time and better photos, but you’ll also save yourself from Egypt’s intense sun and enjoy a much more comfortable climate. We opted to start our days around 7 a.m. every day and were done around lunchtime, leaving plenty of time to relax and enjoy the poolside atmosphere.
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