When planning a solo trip, especially as a woman, safety is often the top concern. For many, Egypt – a land of ancient wonders, bustling cities, and expansive deserts – can feel both thrilling and intimidating. Headlines and hearsay might paint a mixed picture, leaving potential travellers wondering: Is Egypt safe for solo female travellers?

Having recently embarked on a solo adventure to Egypt, I understand these concerns all too well, which is why I want to share my true story with you. In this post, I will provide a candid account of my experience as a solo female traveller in Egypt. I will also address common safety concerns, offer practical tips, and help you decide if Egypt is the right destination for your next solo adventure.

If you take one thing from this post though, I hope it is this: “One bad experience doesn’t define a country and its people. A good experience also doesn’t mean it’s safe.”

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My True Story

The first thing you should know about me is that I am a very chatty and personable individual. There is nothing I love more than connecting with locals, and often this starts with my taxi drivers. Most of the Swahili I know is thanks to Uber drivers, and in Rwanda I even went on a 3 day holiday with my taxi driver! But in Cairo my experience was very different.

Since I was landing at midnight, I decided to skip the hassle of haggling for a taxi driver and instead book a transfer through my hotel. Waiting for me at the airport was a tall, strapping young man called Mohammed. He helped me with my bag as we exchanged some small chat. “Where are you from?” “How was your flight?”. But it soon became apparent he didn’t actually understand what I was saying.

Undeterred though, we continued our conversation with Google Translate. I asked my normal questions. “Are you from Cairo?”, “Have you been busy today?”, “Do you have a big family?”. I’m a curious person, I ask a lot of questions.  

He was dutifully replying and asking similar questions when Google Translate read out “You are beautiful”. Oh-oh! Time to tell him I’m married! “Thank you, I will tell my husband you said that”. I decided to change the subject and ask him about football.

Starting to get uncomfortable

Although he seemed happy to talk about Manchester United, he soon changed the subject. “In your culture, is betrayal in your marriage allowed?”

That question surprised me. I quickly replied, “Not allowed. Once a woman is married, no other man is allowed to touch her”. I hoped this would send a strong message.

He looked thoughtful for a bit before he started speaking into his phone once more. “In my culture, it is OK so long as both parties consent”. I saw this reply as a positive; at least if I didn’t give my consent, it would be OK.

This was my chance to solidify the message: “I would never betray my husband; I married him because I love him very much, and I do not consent for anyone else to touch me”. I thought, that should do it!

Maybe I should have sat in the back

I also thought it was maybe best to change tactics and asked him what music he liked. It worked, he turned the radio on and we sat in silence for a few minutes before another thought popped into his head.

“Can we be friends?” he asked. At this point my gut was telling me to be careful so instead of taking my usual friendly approach and saying yes, I said instead “My husband doesn’t allow me to have male friends”. I felt it was a culturally appropriate reply which I hoped he understood.

He remained silent for a little longer before once more talking into his phone. “Do you like mango?”.

“Yes” I replied. Wrong answer! “OK”, he said. “I buy you mango juice and we go for walk”. I should mention, it was nearly 1 am by this point.

“That’s very kind, thank you, but I am very tired and just want to go to my hotel. How long until hotel?” – I asked.

“No, we have the best mango juice. Let me buy you mango juice and we go for walk” – he insisted.

“No” I replied a little more forcefully. “I am very tired. It is very late. Please take me direct to my hotel. Are we nearly here?”.

I’m getting worried now

He ignored my question and asked one of his own, “Do you want to give me something?”. I wasn’t sure what he was talking about. “I don’t understand,” I said.

“Do you want to give me something? Maybe you can give me hug?” – I didn’t like how this was going.

“No, I don’t want” – I was hoping fewer words might have a bigger impact and less chance of being mistranslated.

He made a face that managed to be both a smirk and a sad face at the same time. He then proceeded to talk at length into his phone, the translation of which made no sense. There was only one sentence I could make out from it: “You wake my little one up”. We’d already established he didn’t have kids, so I could only assume he was speaking of his penis.

WHERE IS THIS HOTEL?!

“Do you understand?” – he asked. “No” I replied.

He tried again. “Your beauty gives me stiffness”. I understood perfectly that time!

Although nothing bad happened, it was a very uncomfortable ride. To add insult to injury, when I complained to the hotel staff about it, they thought it was funny. I felt incredibly uncomfortable that night and was unsure how I would be able to enjoy the rest of my time in Egypt.

I always promise to be honest and authentic on my blogs and on Instagram, and so I shared what had happened on my stories, and that is when I met my knight in shining armour! Rami!

Rami to the rescue!

I had booked a day tour with Rami, and he had kindly called me before my trip to make sure I knew how everything would work upon my arrival. At that point, I already thought he had gone above and beyond for someone who was only going to be spending half a day with him.

But when he saw my story at 1:30 am, his true colours came through. He phoned me straight away to make sure I was safe and to let me know that his sister lived only a few blocks away from where I was staying and that she would happily come and get me even though it was the middle of the night.

I felt safe enough in my hotel, so I turned down the offer, mainly because I hate being an inconvenience. He accepted that but offered to transfer me to his guest house for the rest of the week where I would be staying with his two sisters and his mother. There was something about his tone that felt hugely reassuring, and so the next morning I check out of my not very nice hotel, and moved a couple of blocks down the road to a little slice of paradise.

I was welcomed with open arms and made to feel at home. I ate my meals with his mum and sisters and got to experience true Egyptian hospitality. Thanks to Rami and his family my entire stay in Egypt was transformed.

If you are a solo female traveller or indeed want to travel with peace of mind, please don’t take your chances. Please get in touch with Rami, who will be able to arrange a safe and reliable driver for you. You can contact Rami directly at +201119239280.

Proof that one bad experience doesn’t define a place

I believe that we often manifest what happens to us, and in my case, I was nervous arriving in Cairo because of everything I had been told about “men in Egypt”. As it happens, my first encounter with an Egyptian man was negative.

I decided to change that narrative the next day though and made myself the promise to find the good people. I’ve of course already shared how amazing Rami was, but he wasn’t the only one. I had started chatting to a guy on Facebook a couple of months before and he had offered to show me a locals perspective of Cairo.

After the incident, I was a little more nervous about meeting up with Khaled, but Rami suggested he meet me at the Guest House so they could vet him first. Having passed everyone’s approval, I spent the next couple of days exploring Cairo with Khaled. He was a true gentleman and was happy to answer all my questions with no topics barred. We talked, we joked, we laughed, and I got to enjoy a side of Egypt that I would not have experienced had it not been for trusting my gut and meeting up with Khaled.

Khaled loves meeting travellers, so if you are looking to hang out with locals while in Cairo, get in touch with him at +201096526594.

So, is Egypt safe for solo female travellers?

It is impossible for me to answer that as I had both a bad and a fantastic experience. The good far outweighed the bad, and I would not hesitate to go back again, but there is no denying that there are a lot of reports of uncomfortable situations for women in Egypt, which is why it is important to delve into how best to mitigate any potential issues.

Setting Expectations About Egypt

Egypt is a bucket list destination for many, with its rich history, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture. From the majestic pyramids of Giza to the tranquil waters of the Nile, it’s easy to see why Egypt draws millions of visitors each year. However, like many destinations, understanding the country’s unique social and cultural dynamics is crucial – especially for solo female travellers.

Cultural Norms and Local Customs

Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, and its culture reflects deep-rooted traditions and conservative values. While major tourist areas like Cairo, Luxor, and Sharm El-Sheikh are accustomed to Western visitors, respecting local customs can go a long way in ensuring a positive experience. Modest clothing, for example, is appreciated in most areas, particularly outside of resort towns. For tips on what to pack, check out my Egypt packing list.

Interacting with locals can be both a highlight and a challenge. Egyptians are known for their hospitality, and many people you meet will be warm and welcoming. However, solo female travellers may also attract more attention than they’re used to. This can feel overwhelming at times but is often manageable with preparation and awareness.

The Tourist Factor

Tourism is a vital part of Egypt’s economy, and tourists are generally well-received. Popular destinations like Giza, Luxor, and Aswan are well equipped to handle international visitors, with guides, security, and amenities that are widely available. However, it’s important to recognise that tourism hotspots also bring challenges, such as persistent street vendors and scams that target travellers.

Safety in Perspective

Like any country, Egypt has its challenges. Petty crime, harassment, and overcharging tourists can occur, but violent crime against travellers is rare. The Egyptian government has taken significant steps to ensure the safety of tourists, particularly in high-traffic areas. That said, travelling in Egypt – especially as a solo female- requires situational awareness and a bit of patience.

By understanding the cultural context and preparing for potential challenges, you’ll be better equipped to navigate Egypt with confidence. Being prepared however doesn’t mean it will be trouble free. As you have seen from my personal experiences as a solo female traveller, I didn’t have the best start to my Cairo trip, but being prepared allowed me to control the situation and stop it from affecting the rest of my trip.

Addressing the Safety Question

The big question when it comes to safety is whether Egypt is safe for solo female travellers. As I’ve already explained, the answer isn’t a simple yes or no – it depends on your preparation, awareness, and comfort with navigating a unique cultural environment. Here’s my own breakdown of the key safety aspects you should consider.

General Safety in Egypt

Egypt is generally safe for tourists, with most visits passing without serious incidents. Major tourist areas such as Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and the Red Sear resorts have heightened security due to the importance of tourism to the economy. In these areas, you’ll often see a visible police presence and metal detectors at key sites.

Violent crime is rare, but petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, particularly in crowded areas. It’s important to keep your belongings close and avoid flashing valuables.

Street Harassment

One of the more challenging aspects of travelling in Egypt as a solo female is dealing with street harassment. This can range from harmless curiosity and friendly questions to persistent catcalling or unwanted attention. While it’s often just words, it can feel exhausting over time.

To manage this, dressing modestly is key. Opt for loose-fitting clothing that covers, shoulders, arms and legs, and consider carrying a scarf for extra coverage when needed. Wearing sunglasses can also help reduce eye contact, which can sometimes invite more interaction.

I hate that I am about to write the following words as they go completely against my ethos but be less liberal with your smile. I found my friendliness was often misunderstood as flirtation, so beware of who you smile to!

Transportation safety

Getting around Egypt can be chaotic, especially in cities like Cairo. Taxis and public minibuses can feel overwhelming for first-time visitors. Ber is a safer and more reliable option in urban areas, as it eliminates the need for haggling and ensures your route is tracked. For intercity travel, consider trains or private drivers to avoid potential scams or unsafe conditions.

Solo Female Perceptions

In Egypt, women travelling alone are less common, and it’s not unusual for locals to express curiosity or concerns for your safety. While this is often well-meaning, it can sometimes come across as intrusive. Remember to view the interaction from their cultural point of view and not your own! If you feel uncomfortable with a situation, be firm yet polite, and don’t hesitate to remove yourself from unwanted situations.

Trust your Gut

Like anywhere in the world, trusting your gut is crucial. If a situation doesn’t feel right, it’s OK to walk away or ask for help. Egyptians are known for their hospitality, and many locals will go out of their way to assist you if you need it.

Key Takeaways on Safety

While Egypt presents some unique challenges for solo female travellers, most safety concerns can be mitigated with awareness, preparation, and confidence. Learning to navigate the local culture and being assertive in your boundaries can help you feel more at ease.

For further tips on safety I recommend reading “How to stay safe when travelling in developing countries”. Although this article does not apply specifically to solo female travellers, it does cover the best tips on how to best enjoy local interactions while remaining safe.

Practical Tips for Staying Safe in Egypt

Despite my initial challenges, I found travelling solo in Egypt hugely rewarding. Having said that, I do wish I had taken some extra precautions and been a little less complacent. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate the country with confidence while minimising safety risks.

Planning Your Trip

Choose Accommodations Carefully: Opt for well-reviewed hotels or guesthouses that are known for their safety and hospitality. I have you covered in Cairo! Here are the best places to stay, depending on your budget and travel style!

Research Guides and Tours: Hiring a reputable guide or joining a group tour can be a game changer, especially for exploring historical sites or remote locations. This provides both safety and a deeper understanding of the places you visit. I’ve already raved about Rami as a guide, but he wasn’t the only special guide I met while in Cairo! You can read about each of my Cairo guides here.

Known When To Travel: The best time to visit Egypt is during the cooler months (October to April) when the weather is more comfortable for exploring, and tourists areas are busier, which can enhance safety. Personally, I prefer the shoulder season when there are less people, but it does mean you stand out more.

Navigating Day-to-Day Travel

Use Reliable Transport: Stick to Uber or Careem for taxis in cities like Cairo and Alexandria. For long distances, consider private drivers, trains, or flights instead of local buses and unregulated cabs. Unless, of course, you are travelling the local way with someone like Khaled, who will help you navigate the challenges while at the same time giving you that local experience!

Stay Alert in Crowded Areas: Tourist hotspots like the pyramids or bazaars can be overwhelming. Keep your bag zipped and closed, and avoid engaging too much with overly persistent vendors or touts.

Blend in Where Possible: While you can’t avoid standing out as a tourist, dressing modestly and observing local customs can reduce unwanted attention.

Confident Demeanour: Walk with purpose, even if you’re unsure of your direction. Confidence can deter unwanted attention.

Interacting with locals

Above all, be polite: Most locals are kind and helpful. Don’t be so scared that you assume the worse of them. Embrace the Egyptian hospitality, enjoy their sense of humour, and have some fun. But if someone is being overly persistent, a firm “la shukran” (no, thank you in Arabic), normally works.

Limit Personal Details: Avoid sharing too much about your travel plans or accommodation with strangers. If asked, I am always married (even though I’m now divorced).

Emergency Preparedness

Keep Key Contacts Handy: Save emergency numbers like the police, your country’s embassy, and your hotel on your phone.

Local Support: In case of harassment or feeling unsafe, seek help from other women, shopkeepers, or security personnel. Remember, most people want you to enjoy and appreciate their country and will go out of their way to help you.

Health Precautions: Carry basic medicines and ensure you have travel insurance in case of emergencies. Most people think of safety as crime, but you are more likely to succumb to illness, especially an upset stomach!

Trust Your Instincts

If something feels off, don’t hesitate to remove yourself from the situation. Whether it’s walking away from a pushy vendor or declining an invitation, your comfort and safety come first.

By taking these steps, you’ll not only enhance your safety, but also allow yourself to relax and enjoy the wonders of Egypt. Travelling as a solo female doesn’t mean cutting everyone off, it’s the opposite, use the opportunity to meet new people. My best travel experiences have happened while travelling solo, and the experiences I had in Cairo thanks to the “strangers” I met will remain as some of my favourite for a very long time!

Pros and Cons of Travelling Solo in Egypt as a Female Traveller

Every destination comes with its own set of challenges and rewards, and Egypt is no exception. Here’s a balanced look at the pros and cons of exploring Egypt as a solo female travellers, based on my personal experience.

Pros

Cultural Immersion

Travelling alone often opens doors to deeper cultural experiences. Locals may feel more inclined to engage with a solo traveller, leading to meaningful interactions and insights into Egyptian life. In my case, had I not been alone, it’s unlikely I would have shared lunch with Rami’s family every day.

Personal Growth

Navigating Egypt’s bustling streets and historical sites on your own can be empowering. You’ll likely leave with not only incredible memories but also a sense of accomplishment for tackling such a dynamic destination solo. I won’t lie; travelling solo does make me feel like a complete badass, ready to take on anything that is thrown my way!

Flexibility and Freedom

Travelling solo means you can create your own schedule and spend as much time as you want in places that interest you. Whether it’s soaking in the history of the Valley of the Kings or relaxing along the Nile, the choice is yours. It also allows you to move on if you aren’t particularly enjoying where you are.

Cons

Dealing with Harassment

While much of the attention is harmless, street harassment can feel draining and intimidating. Catcalling and persistent vendors are common, particularly in larger cities like Cairo.

Cultural Adjustment

Egypt’s social and cultural norms can feel unfamiliar to solo female travellers, especially if you’re not used to dressing conservatively or managing interactions with strangers.

Logistics Can Be Tricky

Getting around Egypt – whether by taxi, train, or domestic flight – can be challenging without prior experience or local knowledge. Language barriers and the need to negotiate prices can also add stress.

Is it worth it?

Despite the challenges, Egypt is a deeply rewarding destination for adventurous solo female travellers. With proper preparation, the pros far outweigh the cons. By following safety tips, respecting local customers, and having the right contacts on the ground, you can have an unforgettable journey while feeling confident and secure.

The Best Way to Explore Egypt as a Solo Female Traveller

I love to travel solo, but I am rarely alone. Why? Because I believe that having a guide or hanging out with a local enhances the experience infinitely, and Egypt is no exception. There is so much to be discovered that is best enjoyed with someone who can bring it to life for you.

Below are the best ways to make your trip safe, enriching and unforgettable.

Book a guide

Hiring a guide is one of the smartest ways to enhance your experience in Egypt. A knowledgeable guide not only improves your safety by helping you navigate cultural nuances but also brings Egypt’s rich history to life. From sharing fascinating stories about the pharaohs to pointing out hidden hieroglyphs, a good guide transforms your trip into a truly immersive experience.

Guides can also help you avoid scams, handle language barriers, and show you hidden gems that you might miss on your own.

I was super impressed with Rami. Not only because he came to my rescue after my ordeal with the transfer driver, but because he got us access to areas of Saqqara that no other tourists were going to. We were literally given a key to open up own tombs. It was an incredible experience. Plus he is incredibly knowledgeable!

Rami’s Insight Tours | Voted #1 Best Egypt Tours

Consider Booking a Female Guide

If you feel more comfortable exploring with another woman, booking a female guide is a great option. A female guide may offer a unique perspective on Egypt’s culture and history, particularly regarding the role of women in ancient and modern times.

As a solo female traveller you may feel more at easy with a female guide, especially in situations where cultural norms might feel challenging to navigate. I explore Coptic Cairo with Rania, Rami’s sister, and I certainly felt much more at ease with her than I maybe would have done with a male guide, especially as this was the day after I had my encounter with the transfer driver.

I also thoroughly enjoyed the conversations I had with Rania as she was able to give me a complete different perspective than what Rami and Khaled did. She was also invaluable in understanding the local female experience and sharing tips for staying comfortable and confident during my trip.

If you book through Rami’s Insight Tours, you can always request Rania to be your guide.

Hire a local friend

If you are anything like me, then I’m sure you will love getting to know a place through the eyes of a local. Everywhere I go, I seek out local experiences, ideally accompanied by a local. And Cairo was no exception! I ended up hanging out with Khaled for a couple of days. He offers a non-tour local experience for anyone wanting to exchange cultures. He loves learning about others as much as he loves sharing.

We had a brilliant time, and I got to ask every question that came to mind. We walked through various neighbourhoods, enjoyed street food, sat in cafes, and enjoyed a cocktail overlooking the Nile. If you are travelling to Cairo as a solo female traveller (or as a couple or in a group), I would highly recommend reaching out to him for a genuinely authentic experience.

You can reach Khaled on +201096526594.

Join a group tour

If you prefer the camaraderie of other travellers or want to take the guesswork out of planning, a group tour is a fantastic choice. Group tours provide built-in safety, a structured itinerary, and the chance to meet like-minded travellers. They also ensure you get expert guidance and skip the stress of navigating logistics.

Having travelled and hosted tours for Indy Escapes, I can’t recommend them highly enough. Their itineraries are designed to blend cultural immersion, historical exploration, and convenience, making them an excellent choice for solo female travellers.

Is Egypt Safe for Solo Female Travellers? My Final Verdict

So, is Egypt safe for solo female travellers? The honest answer is yes, with some caveats. Like any destination, your experience will depend on how well you prepare, adapt to local customers, and navigate any challenges that may arise.

It is also worth noting that safety is subjective and that we all have different comfort levels. Therefore please read my final verdict with the knowledge that I am a pretty adventurous soul, that thrives in local environments and who has travelled to many developing countries alone. Therefore, my comfort levels are pretty stretched!

But having said that, I still believe anyone can enjoy Egypt solo if you approach with the right mindset and by taking the right precautions.

The Positives

Egypt offers an experience like no other, with its incredible history, welcoming locals, and breathtaking landscapes. Solo female travellers who are adventurous and mindful of their surroundings can have an enriching and empowering trip. Whether you’re marvelling at the pyramids, cruising down the Nile, or learning about local traditions, Egypt’s magic is undeniable.

I spent 6 days in Cairo and loved it! Make sure to check out my itinerary!

The Challenges

That said, Egypt does comes with its challenges, particularly for solo women. Street harassment, cultural differences, and logistical hurdles can feel daunting at times. However, with the right precautions – dressing modestly, being assertive, hiring a guide, or joining a group tour – you can navigate these challenges successfully.

Don’t let these challenges put you off. If you have nobody to travel with, simply contact Rami, and you won’t have anything to worry about!

Who is Egypt best for?

Adventurous Travellers: If you thrive on discovering new cultures and stepping out of your comfort zone, Egypt is perfect for you.

History Buffs: Egypt’s rich archaeological sites and fascinating stories will captivate anyone with a love for history.

Prepared Planners: Those who take the time to research and prepare will feel more at ease and have a smoother experience.

Final thoughts

Egypt is a land of contrasts – vibrant yet chaotic, welcoming yet challenging. Travelling here as a solo female will push you in ways that can be both uncomfortable and rewarding. But with the right mindset and preparation, it’s a journey that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

If you’ve ever dreamed of walking in the footsteps of pharaohs or seeing the Nile with your own eyes, don’t let fear hold you back. Egypt is waiting to share its wonders with you – if you are ready to embrace the adventure.