Egypt is a desirable place to visit. There is a lot of history and beauty one can experience there. However, many people ask is travel to Egypt safe? Before you book plane tickets and tours, you should be aware of the current political and security environment.
- Check out the US State Department travel site for more information.
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Recent History
Cairo has experienced a lot of change. Long-time leader Hosin Mubarak was removed from power during the Arab Spring uprising in 2011. Recently, retired Field Marshal Abdel Fattah al-Sisi was elected president in May 2014. That was almost a year after he removed Muslim Brotherhood’s Mohammed Morsi from office. Since then, crowds and protests can form quickly. Do not stick around if that happens. If you are traveling with a group, you should have a plan for if you get separated.
Current travel risks, warning
During my recent trip to Egypt, British Airways and Lufthansa canceled all flights to and from Cairo because of a security threat. The US Department of State in July 2019 released a travel warning. It advised travelers to exercise increased caution in Egypt due to terrorism. The Sinai Peninsula (with exception to travel to Sharm El Sheikh by air) and the Western desert are off limits due to terrorism. The Egyptian boarder is also off limits to travelers because it is a military zone.
General Safety
As with travel to any country, there is the potential for petty theft. However, street crime is not that common in Egypt. You should be smart and not take expensive jewelry or belongings. Make sure you carry small amounts of money and bills. I do not recommend taking any form of public transportation in Cairo as they are at risk of terrorist activity and crime. You should also keep a form of identification on you at all times. If you prefer not to carry your passport, make a copy of it and keep that with you.
Traveling as a woman in Egypt
You will almost certainly experience unwanted attention or be harassed by men during your trip. It may just be cat calling, whistling, or horn honking. However, it is also possible that someone one will try to grope you. However, it is rare for men to commit violent crime against women. Remember Egypt is a Muslim country. Dress conservatively. Do not wear shorts or short dresses. Cover your arms. T-Shirts are okay, but the longer the sleeve the better. Women do not have to cover their heads.