Can women travel solo in Egypt? Absolutely yes! Egypt welcomes thousands of solo female travelers every year. While it requires more preparation than some destinations, the experience is incredibly rewarding. This guide shares everything you need to know from our 18 years of helping women explore Egypt safely.
The Short Answer
Yes, Egypt is safe for solo female travelers with cultural awareness and preparation. The key is: dress modestly, book with reputable operators, use safe transportation, and ideally have a guide. Many of our solo female clients describe Egypt as a highlight of their travels!
Essential Safety Tips for Solo Women
1. Dress Modestly
This is the single most important factor. Conservative dress dramatically reduces unwanted attention:
- Cover shoulders and knees at all times (except resort pools)
- Avoid tight, see-through, or revealing clothing
- Carry a lightweight scarf for mosques and extra coverage
- Loose-fitting cotton/linen clothes are most comfortable
- Maxi dresses and loose pants work perfectly
2. Book with Reputable Tour Operators
For solo women, we strongly recommend guided tours, especially for first visits:
- Private tours: Your own guide handles all interactions
- Small group tours: Meet other travelers, added safety
- 24/7 support for any issues
- Pre-arranged, vetted transportation
- Local knowledge and cultural navigation
3. Use Safe Transportation
- Uber/Careem apps: Safest for solo rides - traceable, rated drivers
- Avoid unofficial taxis, especially at night
- Sit in the back seat of taxis/Ubers
- Share your ride details with someone
- Hotel cars are reliable but more expensive
4. Cultural Awareness
- A firm "no thank you" works with persistent vendors
- Avoid prolonged eye contact with men you don't know
- Wear a wedding ring (real or fake) - reduces attention
- Don't feel obligated to answer personal questions from strangers
- Trust your instincts - if something feels off, walk away
"My daughter and I had an incredible time in Egypt. From the moment we arrived, Ahmad greeted us at the airplane door and took care of us. Everyone at Marvelous Egypt Travel is very professional. We felt safe and welcome the whole trip."
Safest Areas for Solo Women
- Tourist areas: Pyramids, Egyptian Museum, GEM, temples - well-policed
- Nile cruises: Contained, secure environment - highly recommended
- Upscale hotels: Security, safe environment
- Red Sea resorts: Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh - relaxed, international
- Aswan: Known for being relaxed and welcoming
Areas to Be Cautious
- Walking alone at night in non-tourist areas
- Crowded local markets without a guide
- Cairo metro during rush hour (women's cars available)
- Accepting invitations from strangers
Our Top Recommendation
For solo female travelers visiting Egypt for the first time, we recommend a private guided tour or small group tour. You'll have a professional guide who handles all interactions, arranged transportation, and 24/7 support. Many solo women tell us this made their Egypt trip stress-free and amazing. Contact us for women-friendly tour options!
Why Solo Women Love Egypt
Despite the extra preparation, solo female travelers consistently rate Egypt among their favorite destinations:
- Ancient wonders that exceed all expectations
- Incredibly hospitable Egyptian people (once you're their guest, you're family)
- Nile cruises - romantic, relaxing, and safe
- Affordable luxury experiences
- Sense of accomplishment traveling somewhere "challenging"
- Meeting other travelers on group tours