Have you ever pictured yourself wandering through ancient pyramids or haggling in a bustling bazaar? Solo travel in Egypt is your chance to turn those dreams into reality. Let me tell you, the mix of excitement, awe, and a bit of nervousness, is well worth it. That’s why this guide exists, to help you prepare and make sure your Egyptian adventure is as safe as it is unforgettable! Spoiler… you will love it! 🇪🇬
Why Choose Egypt for Solo Travel?
Quite simply because you want to feel like Indiana Jones, right? For me, its for these reasons:
- Rich History: Egypt is a full of ancient wonders from more than 4000 years ago, like the Great Pyramids, Luxor Temple, and Abu Simbel.
- Vibrant Culture: Dive into the colours, sounds, and tastes of bustling markets and local cuisine.
- Welcoming People: Egyptians are known for their hospitality and warmth towards tourists. Just ignore the pushy ones!Â
- Affordable Adventure: Solo travel in Egypt is budget-friendly compared to other global destinations. It is so cheap!
Related Article: Pros and Cons of Visiting Egypt: A Comprehensive Guide
Solo Travel in Egypt: Is It Safe?
Let’s get the big question out of the way first. “Is Egypt safe for solo travellers?” In a nutshell: absolutely! Egypt is generally a safe destination, with a low crime rate, especially in tourist areas. Egyptians are renowned for their hospitality and will go out of their way to make you feel welcome. “The safety of tourists is of paramount importance,” says the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism. “We work tirelessly to ensure a secure environment for all visitors.” Source: Egypt Travel. But from experience, as with any travel destination, it’s wise to exercise common sense and take necessary precautions. I always felt secure when I visited, but I always listen to my gut!
Find Your Perfect Trip...
Safety First: Tips for Solo Travellers
- Stay aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
- Avoid walking alone at night: Stick to well-lit areas and consider taking a taxi.
- Share your itinerary: Let someone know your plans, whether it’s a friend, family member, or your hotel.
- Stay hydrated: The Egyptian sun can be intense, so drink plenty of water.
- Respect local customs: Be mindful of cultural norms and traditions.
- Trust your instincts: If a situation feels off, remove yourself from it.
Other Guides: Guides to Egypt
Must-Visit Destinations in Egypt
The Great Pyramids of Giza
Â
Stepping foot near the Great Pyramids is like touching history itself. These iconic structures are awe-inspiring in their grandeur and mystery. Go early to beat the crowds, and if you’re like me, you’ll want a reputable guide who can share the hidden stories of these ancient marvels—like how the workers who built the pyramids weren’t slaves but skilled labourers who lived in organised villages nearby. The camel rides here are tempting, but negotiate the price beforehand to avoid surprises.
Luxor and the Valley of the Kings
Â
Luxor is an open-air museum that will leave you spellbound. As I walked through the Valley of the Kings, I couldn’t help but feel like an explorer uncovering ancient secrets. The vivid colours inside the tombs—especially Tutankhamun’s—are simply mesmerising. Pro tip: Get a ticket to the Luxor Museum if you want to avoid the heat and still soak in incredible artefacts.
Aswan
Â
Aswan stole my heart with its laid-back charm. Picture yourself drifting along the Nile on a felucca at sunset, the golden light glinting off the water. Visiting Philae Temple was a highlight for me—its setting on an island feels almost magical. Don’t miss the Nubian villages nearby; their vibrant colours and warm hospitality are unforgettable.
Dahab
Â
If you crave a mix of adventure and chill vibes, Dahab is your go-to. I tried snorkelling in the Blue Hole, a world-famous dive site, and was blown away by the underwater beauty. Evenings are perfect for lounging at beachfront cafes with a fresh mango juice in hand. It’s a small town, so it’s easy to make friends—I even joined a group for a Mount Sinai sunrise hike, which was surreal.
Siwa Oasis
Â
Siwa is like stepping into another world. Surrounded by endless desert, this oasis is a haven of tranquillity. I loved floating in the salt lakes—you can’t sink, no matter how hard you try! The natural springs here, like Cleopatra’s Bath, are perfect for cooling off. Don’t skip the date palms; Siwan dates are some of the best I’ve ever tasted.
What to know How to Plan or Save for a Trip? Here are our best:
Recommended Tours in Egypt
Dealing with Touts and Scams
Touts can be persistent in tourist areas, offering everything from souvenirs to tours. A polite but firm “La, shukran” (no, thank you) usually does the trick. Be wary of scams, such as offers of “free” gifts or overly friendly strangers. Trust your gut and don’t be afraid to walk away. I have found that if you are friendly but firm, most will leave you in peace.
Embrace the Local Culture: Dress Code and Customs
Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, so dressing modestly is a sign of respect. While you won’t see many local women in shorts and tank tops, especially outside of beach resorts, opting for loose-fitting clothing that covers your shoulders and knees is a good rule of thumb. A handy pashmina or scarf is a lifesaver for covering up when visiting mosques or religious sites.
Tip: Pack breathable fabrics like cotton and linen to combat the Egyptian heat!
Check out our Travel Insurance section!
Navigating the Bustle: Transportation in Egypt
Getting around Egypt is an adventure in itself! From the chaotic charm of Cairo’s traffic (you’ll either laugh or be terrified) to the tranquil beauty of a Nile cruise, there’s a mode of transport for every taste. For city travel, Uber and Careem (the local ride-hailing app) are reliable and affordable options. If you fancy experiencing the local life, hop on a microbus – it’s a cheap, albeit crowded, way to get around. For longer distances, consider comfortable Go Bus coaches or the overnight sleeper train.
Rest Your Head in Egypt
Staying Connected: Internet and Communication
Staying connected is a breeze in Egypt. You can purchase a local SIM card with data from providers like Vodafone, Orange, or Etisalat at the airport or local shops. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and cafes. Or just use Airalo esims.
Foodie Adventures: Exploring Egyptian Cuisine
Â
Prepare your taste buds for a flavour explosion! Egyptian cuisine is a delightful mix of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences. Don’t miss out on koshari (a hearty mix of rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas), ful medames (fava bean stew), and molokhia (a leafy green soup). For a sweet treat, indulge in some basbousa or kunafa. Egyptians are serious about their tea (shai), so make sure you try some. It is a big part of the culture.
Learning Some Arabic: It Goes a Long Way
Â
While English is spoken in tourist areas, knowing a few basic Arabic phrases will enhance your experience and earn you big smiles from the locals. “As-salamu alaykum” (peace be upon you) for greetings and “Shukran” (thank you) are great starting points. “La, shukran” (no, thank you) can be handy when dealing with persistent touts.
Haggling Like a Pro: The Art of the Deal
Â
Haggling is a way of life in Egyptian markets (souks). Embrace it as a fun cultural experience. Start low, be polite, and don’t be afraid to walk away if the price isn’t right. Remember, it’s all about finding a price that makes both you and the seller happy. I always find a smile and a friendly attitude is a great way to start.
Emergency Contacts: Who to Call in Case of Trouble
Save the following emergency numbers on your phone:
- Police: 122
- Ambulance: 123
- Tourism Police: 126
It’s also a good idea to have the contact details of your embassy or consulate handy.
Packing Essentials: What to Bring on Your Egyptian Adventure
Â
- Lightweight clothing: Pack loose-fitting, breathable clothes.
- Comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking.
- Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen.
- Scarf or pashmina: For covering up when needed.
- Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
- Travel adapter: Egypt uses Type C and Type F power sockets.
- Basic first-aid kit: For minor ailments.
- Phrasebook or translation app: Helpful for communication.
- Local Currency: Have some local currency to hand, for when cards are not accepted.
I absolutely loved Egypt and if you do Solo travel in Egypt it is a magical journey filled with discovery and adventure. By following these tips, you’ll not only stay safe but also unlock the incredible wonders this country has to offer. So take the leap and just go!
Your turn…
Â
What are your thoughts on solo travel in Egypt? Share your experiences or questions in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you!
Simliar Articles:
Â
- Is it Safe to Travel to Egypt? Your Safety Guide
- Don’t Get Done! 20 Crafty Travel Scams and How to Dodge Them
- Best Time to Visit the Pyramids of Giza: A Seasonal Guide
Recommended Websites and Resources:
Â
Your Questions, Answered
Is Egypt safe for solo travellers?
Yes, but like any destination, staying vigilant and following local advice is key.
Can women travel solo in Egypt?
Absolutely! Many women explore Egypt solo—just follow safety tips and dress modestly.
What’s the best time to visit Egypt?
October to April offers pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing.
Do I need a visa for Egypt?
Most travellers can obtain an e-visa or visa on arrival. Check specific requirements for your nationality.
How can I avoid scams?
Stick to official guides, avoid unsolicited offers, and confirm prices beforehand.
Â
Travel Planning Resources
Â
Ready to book your next trip? These trusted resources have been personally vetted to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Book Your Flights: Kick off your travel planning by finding the best flight deals on Trip.com. Our years of experience with them confirm they offer the most competitive prices.
Book Your Hotel: For the best hotel rates, use Booking.com . For the best and safest hostels, HostelWorld.com is your go-to resource.
Find Apartment Rentals: For affordable apartment rentals, check out VRBO. They consistently offer the best prices.
Car Rentals: For affordable car rentals, check out RentalCars.com. They offer the best cars, mostly brand new.
Travel Insurance: Never travel without insurance. Here are our top recommendations:
- EKTA for Travel Insurance for all areas!
- Use AirHelp for compensation claims against flight delays etc.
Book Your Activities: Discover walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more on Get Your Guide. They have a vast selection of activities to enhance your trip. There is also Tiqets.com for instant mobile tickets.
Book The Best Trains: Use Trainline to find the most affordable trains or Rail Europe for rail passes!
Need More Help Planning Your Trip? Visit our Resources Page to see all the companies we trust and use for our travels.
You May Also Like
Save this post (pin it)
Share this post
Note: This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you.
