My Experience in Egypt as a Solo, Blonde Female Traveler
Egypt has a low crime rate, a strong police presence and screenings/ checkpoints throughout the country, yet it gets a bad rep. Since 2011, tourism numbers have plummeted, though it seems to be slowly picking up again. After having traveled in Egypt, I didn’t ever feel unsafe, but I did feel uncomfortable and, at times, harassed. So would I do it again? On one condition!
What happens?
Women that are foreign-looking will get attention. Egyptians will stare. Women and children will follow, loiter and ask for photos if you have blonde hair. No harm is meant from this, but it is annoying.
There are A LOT of vendors who spend all day convincing tourists to buy their products. Egyptian men will also hole up, hidden in corners in the temples or landmark sites, offering to show a “hidden statue,” “cool carving” or take your photo. Regardless of whether you say yes or no, a tip is always demanded.
Egyptian men won’t take no for an answer. My worst experience was in Luxor. We were finishing up our trip and had some free time to relax or explore before our overnight train to Cairo. We were staying in the heart of the city at the Emilio Hotel, a 12-minute walk away from the Winter Palace according to Google Maps. I walked only half a mile on a main street straight to the hotel known for its garden oasis.
The men were relentless. On the street, in cars, from inside a nearby Temple.
“Do you need a taxi? I’ll take you anywhere you want to go!”
“It’s too hot for a beautiful lady. Can I walk with you?”
“Where are you going? I’ll follow you if you ignore me!”
“Beautiful woman. Where you from?”
“Let me help you! I’ll carry your bag. Do you want photos?”
“Where are you staying or where can I find you?”
“I like you. I’ll look for you later!”
“I’ll stay here and wait for you to return”
And on and on it went. “No thank you” didn’t work, ignoring them didn’t work. They followed me down the road, would stop their cars and get out, would run out of their stores. I had at least 4-5 men surrounding me at all times. As soon as one left, another would show up. I was getting beeped at from all street corners. It was maddening and frustrating.
Men aren’t exempt either. Foreigners will be forced or tricked into buying things. They also tend to be more physically aggressive by trying to shake hands or force the tourist into a store.
I 100% recommend a tour when traveling in Egypt.
A tour group will provide security, safety in numbers and a local guide who can fend off anyone that is acting inappropriate or aggressive. If you know ahead of time that you will not be okay with any harassment, don’t walk without your guide or plan on private transportation for any additional excursions. Egyptians will still try to talk to you or sell you things, but the difference is that they will keep their distance and move away once you say “no.”
Other Safety Tips
- Stay in the tourist areas. Don’t venture too close to the borders
- Keep a copy of your passport with you, and lock up the real one in your hotel safe, along with any valuables
- Don’t give your phone or belongings to Egyptians lurking in the main sites
- Take Ubers when available or request a meter taxi
- Avoid any political rallies or protests
- Keep your distance from military police and vehicles
- Wait for a local when crossing the road
- Wear appropriate clothing when visiting mosques or other religious sites.
- Don’t do drugs and only drink alcohol where it is permitted
Progress?
There have been moves to improve this. At the sites, many vendors are pushed to a certain side and not allowed to wander. You’ll see the Tourism and Antiquities Police Station in front of the landmarks as well.
With all this being said, I met so many Egyptians who were lovely and kind. They want you to have a good time, visit again and bring your friends next time around. This country and these people clearly need the money and tourism dollars. Ironically, tourism will never get better if people feel harassed or unsafe.
For my thoughts on booking a tour or hearing about my trip with Intrepid, click here!
