Is Cairo Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Cairo is relatively safe for solo female travelers but certain precautions should be adhered to. It is common to experience street harassment in the form of staring and comments, and women may feel uncomfortable in crowded places. However, violent crime is relatively rare. Avoid travelling alone at night and dress conservatively to respect local customs. Also, it is recommended to be vigilant in tourist areas due to the risk of pickpocketing.

Safety rating

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How safe is Cairo?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Unsafe

While Cairo is generally safe for tourists, solo female travelers should be cautious, especially at night. It's always best to avoid walking alone after dark. Stick to populated, well-lit areas, avoid commuting alone and limit night time excursions whenever possible. Cultural norms as well as safety considerations make it less advisable to wander in late hours. It's recommended to use a reliable taxi service when traveling at night.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Cairo, including buses, metro, and taxis, is largely accessible, but may be a bit challenging for solo female travelers. While reports of untoward incidents aren't unheard of, many women use them daily without issues. However, cultural misunderstandings and occasional language barriers could prove uncomfortable. The city's bustling atmosphere, particularly during rush hours, could be overwhelming. It is advisable to stay vigilant, avoid crowded rides, and travel during off-peak times where possible. Some metro trains have women-only cars, which adds a level of comfort and security. As for taxis, always insist on using the meter to avoid being overcharged.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:High

Navigating the streets of Cairo as a solo female traveler can be quite challenging. It's common to experience unwanted attention, including catcalling or overtly persistent vendors. While rare, there have been instances of more unsolicited physical contact. Dressing conservatively and observing local customs can help to mitigate these experiences, but it's prudent to be prepared for this reality. However, be assured that most Egyptians are kind-hearted and helpful, willing to step in if situations escalate.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Moderate

Cairo is generally safe for travel and the locals are often curious and welcoming towards foreigners. However, as a solo female traveler, you may encounter minor issues such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, or scams, especially in crowded and touristic areas. Always keep your belongings close to you and stay alert.

Is Cairo worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.6 /5

based on 16 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.5/5

Safety

3.3/5

Food

3.8/5

Budget-friendly

3.7/5
Zhamilya

Zhamilya

Hungary

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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Elif

Elif

France

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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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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Solo travel

Cairo is a must to get to Giza. The old museum is still worth a visit, and people can be helpful and lovely. Uber was rather safe and effective form of travel. However finding a decent place to stay in the city is a challenge. Overall, try to stay closer to Memphis or Giza and really just try to get to Luxor. Best. Place. Ever. If you want a cheap and amazing company, Aladdin family tours has hotels and guides for stupidly cheap. All the Instagram worthy photos you could want from their restaurant overlooking the Nile and they always book an Egyptologist to show you round. They are so sweet and won’t scam you in Luxor or Cairo.

Posted: June 12, 2024
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Family travel

Traveling to Egypt was a great experience! Cairo city is super cheap and you can use taxi app al the time without worry for the price. The food is amazing, especially if your hosts or hotel are Egyptian, they will prepare absolutely delicious food for you. Males are a bit intrusive some times, just be cautious. A lot of people spoke Spanish to my surprise, so do not say anything bad about your host because they might understand you lol. Overall have cash ready because there is not many card payment options.

Posted: June 9, 2024Experienced: March, 2024
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Solo travel

It’s safe to use airbnb there and better to go with it because hotels in Cairo are over priced when we compare the prices.. best way to stay in Cairo is using airbnb. It’s safe in Cairo for a girl solo traveller

Posted: February 11, 2024
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Elodie

Elodie

France

Solo travel

It's a trip of a lifetime. Cairo is definitely a good place to discover the piramids. However the locals are too interested by your wallet. I felt like a walking ATM. You have to learn how to say no and you will definitely have a mariage proposal or two. I enjoyed the monuments and the history of this country however the locals are not very welcoming or at least it didn't feel very genuine. Might try Sharm.

Posted: January 26, 2024Experienced: December, 2021
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Solo travel

Egypt is just the mother of the world 🌍🔐❤️ The safest place ever If u happened to get there u should definitely visit the pyramids Shabrawy restaurant all the way ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥 It depends if u know Egypt very well 1000usd will be enough for a month but if u don’t know the country very well its gonna cost you fortune 😂 InDrive app for transportation

Posted: December 29, 2023Experienced: August, 2023
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Solo travel

I did not like it in Cairo. I did not feel safe there, I was constantly harassed by vulgar men and deceived whenever possible. Cairo is a chaotic and dirty city. It is impossible to cross the street, so crowded and dangerous, as cars and motorcycles squeeze in every direction. I would never return to this place and never recommend it to anyone. It was a total hell, and I got the worst food poisoning in my life.

Posted: September 28, 2023
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Solo travel

I'm a very pale redhead and I was alone in Cairo for a few days. I felt safe and even met a few incredibly nice locals, with whom I spent some time. I dressed modestly and maintained confidence, and everything was fine.

Posted: July 18, 2023
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Is Cairo safe for women?

Safety index

3.5 /5

Based on 42 local experiences

Crime index

1.9 /5

Based on 42 local experiences

Malaka

Malaka

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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Sara

Sara

For anyone coming to Cairo, most people are friendly. However, wear modest clothes when in certain areas like old Egypt or the pyramids. Mostly stay in modern places like Tagamoo’ or Maadi If you need recommendations for safe places around Egypt, hit me up

Posted: April 26, 2025
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Meet locals in Cairo

Menna

Menna

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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AlShimaa

AlShimaa

About Me

I'm 23, Mandarin learner, open to making new friends from all around the world, and trying to show them my country as possible as i can hoping to give them good memories. I also love to capture breathtaking sceneries.

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Cairo

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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Amira

Amira

Cairo

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hey, this is Amira! 🌱🌷 I’m 27 and love all things art, connect with nature, and good company. I’m always down to explore the city, check out a gallery, or go to a party once in a while! I enjoy meeting new people and really value easygoing, genuine connections. Excited to make new friends and share good vibes!✨✨

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to Cairo

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