Is Egypt Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Egypt is a remarkable country to explore, but as a solo female traveler, it requires a good amount of caution. The country's society is highly patriarchal, and women often face daily harassment, especially in crowded areas. However, the level of safety can significantly improve if you respect the local norms and dress conservatively. Despite the difficulties, many women travel to Egypt alone and have a brilliant time by exercising a high level of awareness and sticking to tourist-friendly areas. Remember, it's important to hire a trusted local guide or join group tours if you plan on visiting remote areas.

Safety rating

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How safe is Egypt?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Unsafe

Egypt has a moderate level of safety, however, as a solo female traveler, it's generally not recommended to walk alone at night. In tourist areas, while the risk is a bit lower, it's wise to exercise extra precaution. In other areas, it's best to avoid nighttime walks altogether due to a lack of street lights in certain districts and occasional harassment. Consider hiring a reliable guide or taking a registered taxi if you must be out at night.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Egypt, such as buses and metros, is relatively safe during the day. Most locals are helpful, and crime rate on public transportation is not especially high. However, the lack of English can pose a barrier for communications and the cultural norms can present discomfort, especially on crowded buses. Metro cars have women-only sections which can provide a better sense of security. Nighttime travel should be more cautious, as any other city. Taxis or ride-hailing apps are also common and often a more comfortable choice for women travelers.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:High

One should note that Egypt possesses a vibrant culture and diverse historical attractions, but verbal street harassment can be quite common. This can vary from mildly annoying to more persistent and can sometimes feel intimidating. Remember to dress modestly to respect local customs and avoid unwanted attention. It's always crucial to be aware of your surroundings and maintain confidence while walking around. Knowing a few Arabic phrases can also come in handy.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Moderate

Egypt, particularly in its bustling cities, presents a moderate risk of petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching. Popular tourist areas, crowded markets, and public transport facilities are where these incidences occur most. However, the majority of nationals are friendly and helpful, and so long as you remain vigilant, chances of being a victim can be minimized.

Is Egypt worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.2 /5

based on 105 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.5/5

Safety

3.8/5

Food

4.2/5

Budget-friendly

4/5
Zhamilya

Zhamilya

Hungary

Cairo, Family travel

I came to Cairo with my sister and my grandma. We came with a tour company for a day, and visited the great pyramids of Giza. We visited the mosque of al-Zahir Baybars, and Egyptian Museum, which was my childhood dream, because we could see the real mummies. After that we went to Giza by tour bus. It was really hot but the experience was phenomenal. We had a lunch at the nearby cafe, organised by the tour company. Overall, I’d say Egypt is good for travelling with a group or a family. I would not go there alone, as I would not feel safe enough doing so. I wore long pants and a long-sleeved shirt on my trip for safety and sun protection.

Posted: April 21, 2025
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Sevtap

Sevtap

Turkey

Egypt, Solo travel

Contrary to what was said, Egypt was a safe country. I went there alone. I found some local friends before i go there. They were very friendly and helpfull. They show me around, what to eat where to visit. It was extremmely easy to travel this way . I visit alexandrie, cario, giza, luxor and Hurghada. You must visit Egypt. There are so much to see and experance. :)

Posted: April 20, 2025
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Hantig

Hantig

Romania

Luxor, Solo travel

For this experience, I chose a cruise that included accommodation and three meals a day — it was much more convenient and affordable. The cruise lasted five days, starting in Luxor and ending in Aswan. At the time, I was working as an English teacher in Alexandria, so I traveled for 12 hours by bus from Alexandria to Luxor because it was cheaper than flying. Of course, you can take a plane, but it’s much more expensive. I recommend booking through a travel agency because they usually offer the best prices, or going in a group, as group rates are lower and it’s more convenient. During the trip, I went on a marathon of temple visits — I explored all the temples in every city we stopped in. They are absolutely amazing, and definitely worth seeing! I also suggest visiting the traditional villages — it’s a unique and relaxing experience, where you can truly see local life. In terms of safety, you do need to be careful. It’s not the safest place, especially for solo female travelers. On the bus, there were many strange men staring or trying to flirt, which was very annoying — and I experienced the same on the cruise. It’s best not to interact with them, as they can be quite persistent and it becomes difficult to get rid of them. Also, pay close attention to prices. If something seems too expensive, don’t be shy — negotiate! Bargaining is part of the culture, and they actually enjoy making deals. It’s also very helpful to learn a few words in Arabic — it makes a good impression and can make your experience smoother.

Posted: April 17, 2025Experienced: October, 2024
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Marina Hurghada, Group travel

I have to say that I only felt safe because I was in a group of 6 ppl in the town. On the seaside with the restaurants it seems very safe but in the town at evening everyone is whistling after or some guys came to close and touched me at my waist or even took pictures of us. I would never go to that place by myself. And it was Ramadam time…

Posted: April 12, 2025Experienced: February, 2025
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Wessam

Wessam

Saudi Arabia

Dahab, Family travel

It was really good experience one of the best experiences i have had or seen the nature is extraordinary, It was really good experience one of the best experiences i have had or seen the nature is extraordinary

Posted: March 13, 2025
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Janette

Janette

Austria

Egypt, Family travel

It was the best vacation I've been to with my family the food was normal and it was a good hotel the people were very nice to us I can just say that I really loved it there. I recommend it really it was great

Posted: March 12, 2025
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Umay

Umay

Turkey

Egypt, Couple travel

Egypt was one of the countries I wanted to visit the most because of my interest in ancient civilizations. The sea and corals were really amazing, definitely go diving! Also, don't leave without going to Luxor and seeing the Valley of the Kings and the museums. The most beautiful places are in Luxor, not Cairo. As a Turkish, I had no problem eating spicy and salty food, but if your stomach is not used to it, it can be a bit uncomfortable. Finally, it is useful to dress a little more modestly and I do not recommend traveling alone for a woman.

Posted: February 4, 2025Experienced: February, 2024
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Egypt, Group travel

Such a beautiful country! But you have to be careful. Even in a group And not only for girls , be careful. For guys too. The local will try to assult and lure you into buying. Sometimes they get hostile and this creates a bas mood. But just be cautious. Even at the hotel with the staff aswell

Posted: February 2, 2025Experienced: January, 2020
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Elif

Elif

France

Cairo, Couple travel

I spent four months in Cairo as an exchange student, and I absolutely loved the city! Egypt, often called the cradle of civilization, is filled with incredible history, culture, and breathtaking sights. If you’re passionate about history and culture, Cairo will feel like heaven! I spent almost every weekend traveling around, yet I still couldn’t see everything—it’s a place that keeps surprising you. And if you’re going to Egypt, you should definitely visit Alexandria, Siwa, and Luxor as well. My favorite restaurant in Cairo is definitely Tasha Restaurant in Mounira. You can eat handmade Egyptian food from mr dear friend Amr. I was always eating there, the prices are so cheap and the quality is really good, the most importantly you can have the chance to meet Amr, one of the great people of Cairo. Regarding safety, I’d say the city is generally safe, but for women, I highly recommend going with friends rather than alone. As an alone foreigner lady, you might attract attention, and unfortunately, street harassment can happen. However, with some precautions and a bit of street awareness, you can still have an amazing experience exploring this fascinating city! If anyone has questions about traveling to Egypt, feel free to ask!

Posted: January 30, 2025
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Cairo, Solo travel

My trip to Egypt was amazing! I explored the Pyramids of Giza, sailed on the Nile, and enjoyed the beautiful Red Sea beaches. The rich history, delicious food, and warm hospitality made it unforgettable.

Posted: January 2, 2025Experienced: December, 2024
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Is Egypt safe for women?

Safety index

3.7 /5

Based on 88 local experiences

Crime index

1.9 /5

Based on 88 local experiences

Farida

Farida

Dahab

This place is more than wonderful, it charges energy for life, the safest place in Egypt actually, the sea, the walkways, the bike riding, the pets everywhere, everything is wonderful, I wish I could try diving but I will do it next time God willing

Posted: May 8, 2025
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Malaka

Malaka

Cairo

What I love about here is that really it's the safest I see, as long as it's light outside you are good to go wherever, just make sure in public transport you don't get near men try to set near a woman for safety of sexual harassment. I didn't have the experience of robbery or getting attacked or something like that.thank god. Yeah also make sure crossing the streets to take care bec that's something to worry about in Egypt. We don't have a system for streets, so people and cars and motorcycles are a problem sometimes

Posted: April 27, 2025
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Meet locals in Egypt

Shahd

Shahd

About Me

Hii!! A am an open Minded student. Interested in traveling, culture exchange, and computer science💻😂. I am also open to anything crazy 🤪

Speaking

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Farida

Farida

About Me

Hello, I'm Farida Badawy from Alexandria, Egypt. I'm 21 years old. I'm a student at the Institute of Mass Communication, Public Relations Department. I truly hope to travel the world and exchange cultures, try new cuisines, make new friends from all over the world, and have new adventures. Overall I want to live my life. *I have only traveled inside Egypt.*

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Egypt

Menna

Menna

Cairo

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I’m a dreamer with a love for beauty in all its forms—whether it’s in art, little everyday moments, or the way the sun hits the water just right. Creativity is my language, and I express it through colors, textures, and ideas that tell a story. I find joy in the simple things—a good book, a quiet swim, the rhythm of a padel match, or the feeling of movement at the gym. Balance is my muse, and I’m always seeking ways to nurture my mind, body, and soul. Life, to me, is about passion, growth, and a touch of elegance in everything I do.

Speaking

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Nagla

Nagla

Alexandria

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hello, this is Nagla, an urban scholar and researcher, love to see cities and local cultures and to get to learn from locals, currently living in Nairobi and will be leaving soon so would love to see more of Kenya and Kenyan people and embracing every chance to get closer!

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to Egypt

Hannah

Hannah

About Me

Hey, I'm Hannah from the US. Been living abroad for 11 years now, in South Korea, Czechia, and Croatia. I love to travel, read, hike, and testing the waters for new hobbies!

Speaking

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lin

lin

About Me

I am a business consultant, born in China and graduated from university in Hong Kong. Here are 3 fun facts about me: 1. During my university years, I was able to travel to 9 different countries through scholarship applications and cultural exchange programs. 2. During the period since starting my career, I have not had a stable home base, living in many cities across China. I consider this my "YOLO (You Only Live Once) plan" and have been keeping a YOLO diary, documenting my experiences in over 30 different locations in China so far. 3. I hope to live to the age of 103, as I find this world to be endlessly fascinating and would love to experience it across two centuries.

Speaking

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Safety in Egypt