Cairo is an exhilarating city, a vibrant tapestry of ancient history and bustling modern life. For American travelers, experiencing the Pyramids, exploring the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, and cruising the Nile can be the trip of a lifetime. While Egypt is generally safe for tourists, particularly in well-traveled areas, being informed and prepared is always the best approach.
At Cairotrips.com, your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities. Here are 10 essential safety tips specifically for American travelers visiting Cairo, designed to ensure your adventure is as smooth and worry-free as possible.
1. Stay Informed and Enroll in STEP
Before and during your trip, check the U.S. Department of State’s travel advisories for Egypt (travel.state.gov). While major tourist areas like Cairo are generally considered safe, regional tensions can shift. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This free service allows the U.S. Embassy in Cairo to contact you in an emergency (whether natural disaster, civil unrest, or family emergency) and provides you with alerts and security messages.
2. Book with Reputable Tour Operators (Like Cairotrips.com!)
This is perhaps the most crucial tip. Choosing a well-established and reputable tour company like Cairotrips.com significantly enhances your safety and peace of mind. We provide:
- Licensed, experienced guides: They understand local customs, navigate safely, and can handle unexpected situations.
- Pre-arranged, secure transportation: Avoid the hassle and potential risks of negotiating with unofficial taxis.
- 24/7 support: Our local team is always available to assist.
3. Be Culturally Aware and Dress Modestly
Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country with conservative customs. Respecting local traditions will not only show courtesy but can also help you avoid unwanted attention.
- Dress Code: For women, it’s advisable to cover shoulders and knees. Loose-fitting clothing is generally preferred. A light scarf can be useful for covering your head when entering mosques. For men, shorts are generally acceptable in tourist areas but long pants are more common outside of resorts.
- Public Displays of Affection (PDA): Avoid overt public displays of affection, as they are generally frowned upon.
- Ramadan: If traveling during Ramadan, be extra mindful. Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours.
4. Stay Hydrated and Practice Food & Water Safety
Traveler’s diarrhea (“Pharaoh’s Revenge”) is a common ailment. Taking precautions can help prevent it.
- Drink Bottled Water: Only drink sealed bottled water. Avoid tap water, even for brushing teeth.
- Ice: Be cautious with ice in drinks outside of reputable hotels and restaurants.
- Food Safety: Stick to reputable restaurants. Be cautious with street food unless it’s freshly prepared and piping hot. Fruits and vegetables should be peeled or washed thoroughly.
- Avoid the Nile: Do not swim in the Nile River to avoid waterborne diseases like bilharzia.
5. Secure Your Valuables and Be Aware of Petty Crime
While violent crime against tourists is rare, petty theft like pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded tourist areas and markets.
- Keep Valuables Secure: Use hotel safes for passports, extra cash, and expensive jewelry. Carry only what you need for the day.
- Be Mindful in Crowds: Keep your bag secure and in front of you in crowded areas like the Khan el-Khalili bazaar or busy metro stations.
- Limit Flashy Displays: Avoid displaying large amounts of cash, expensive jewelry, or high-end electronics unnecessarily.
6. Use Reputable Transportation (Uber/Careem or Pre-Booked)
Cairo traffic can be chaotic, and some taxi drivers may try to overcharge.
- Ride-Sharing Apps: Uber and Careem are widely available, reliable, and provide transparent pricing. They are generally the safest and most convenient option for getting around the city independently.
- Pre-Booked Transfers: For airport transfers and inter-city travel, use reputable tour companies (like Cairotrips.com) that offer pre-booked, private, air-conditioned vehicles with trusted drivers.
- Avoid Unlicensed Taxis: Steer clear of unmarked or unlicensed taxis. If you must use a street taxi, negotiate the fare before getting in.
7. Be Wary of Scams and Overly Friendly Strangers
Scams targeting tourists are common, particularly around major attractions like the Cairo Pyramids.
- “Official” Guides/Helpers: Be cautious of individuals who approach you offering unsolicited tours or “help” (e.g., at the Pyramids). They may demand payment afterwards or try to lead you to souvenir shops where they earn commission. Stick to your pre-arranged guide.
- Camel/Horse Rides: Negotiate the price, duration, and exact route before getting on any animal. Clarify if the price is per person, per minute, or for the whole ride to avoid disputes.
- Fake Tickets: Only purchase tickets from official booths at the attractions or through your reputable tour company.
- “Gift” Scams: Be wary of people who try to give you a “gift” (e.g., a scarf or hat) then demand payment once you’ve accepted it. Politely decline.
8. Carry Identification and Emergency Contacts
Always have a copy of your passport (physical or digital) and visa on you. Keep the actual passport secured in your hotel safe.
- U.S. Embassy in Cairo:
- Emergency Assistance: (+202) 2797-3300 (24/7)
- Website: eg.usembassy.gov
- Local Emergency Numbers:
- Police: 122
- Tourist Police: 126
- Ambulance: 123
- Cairotrips.com Emergency Contact: Ensure you have our local emergency contact number provided to you upon booking.
9. Women Travelers: Extra Awareness
While Cairo is generally safe for women, especially when traveling with a group or guide, solo female travelers might experience more unsolicited attention, including catcalling.
- Dress Modestly: As mentioned, dressing conservatively can reduce unwanted attention.
- Confidence & Body Language: Maintain confident body language and avoid direct eye contact with strangers unless initiating an interaction. A firm “La, shokran” (No, thank you) can be effective.
- Avoid Isolated Areas: Especially after dark, avoid walking alone in poorly lit or isolated areas.
- Group Tours: Joining group tours can provide an added layer of comfort and safety for solo female travelers.
10. Listen to Your Guide and Trust Your Gut
Your local Egyptologist guide is an invaluable resource for safety and cultural nuances. Pay attention to their advice and instructions. If a situation or individual feels off, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation.
By keeping these safety tips in mind, American travelers can confidently navigate the wonders of Cairo and enjoy a truly enriching and secure Egyptian adventure. Cairotrips.com is here to support you every step of the way!
