The Truth About Solo Travel in Egypt: What Nobody Tells You Before You Go

If many places have been visited by you, then solo travelling is something you may be confident about. Being aware of what to do and what to avoid is helpful. Egypt can offer the most amazing travel experience, and it is one of the safest countries in the Middle East. If travelling solo to Egypt has been planned by you, then you must check out these tips.

In Egypt, getting sick is easy; therefore, you must eat healthy food, drink a lot of water, and carry vitamins and immunity boosters. Consulting your family physician for directives before travelling is recommended. One of the ways to keep fit is to ensure you consume a lot of tea while in Egypt.

The best time to visit Egypt is when the temperatures are moderate and the crowds are fewer. Lower temperatures combined with dry air can increase the chances of getting sick. To reach your desired destination in the country, travel by Egypt Air. Flights to and from various destinations across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas are operated by it.

Tips for solo travellers

• In Egypt, getting scammed is easy; therefore, awareness about them is a must, and you should be vigilant. Instead of learning about every possible scam, it is better to hire a good travel guide. Most of the unwanted incidents can be avoided with the help of a trustworthy guide. You will be kept well informed by the guide.

• Many travellers in Egypt experience traveller’s tummy or ‘Egyptian tummy bug’. During the visit, the local cuisine is not explored by many travellers. Though indulging in the local cuisine is a big part of travelling. Local cuisines can be tried out at your high-end hotel, and going reckless with the local cuisine is not recommended. Only bottled water should be consumed while in Egypt.

• When eating at restaurants, tipping is expected, and they are not shy about making it known to you. Not giving the correct change is considered a potential scam, especially while tipping. Always give the right change to prevent any potential issues.
• While visiting the pyramids, remember that photography is not allowed inside them. Find attendants inside the pyramid who may agree to take a picture of you. However, do not forget to tip the attendant. Try to avoid this situation when deciding to go inside the pyramid. Not tipping is considered rude and disrespectful.

• In Egypt, 85% – 90% of people are Muslims, and the others are Coptic Orthodox Christians. Understanding the cultural differences and respecting local customs is a must. Consuming alcohol is forbidden in the Muslim religion, and Egypt is a dry country. Your attire is expected to be conservative by Western standards. Pack tops with long sleeves and flowy, long skirts. It is optional to wear head wraps and bandanas. Avoid wearing anything revealing and shorts altogether. Finger-pointing and thumbs-up are considered offensive. Public display of affection should be avoided.
• Experienced travellers can travel in Egypt using public transport (bus system, taxis, and metro). Traffic in Egypt can be bad, and the parking situation is something you would want to avoid. The best option for solo travellers is to book a group tour or a tour with a guide and driver. Public transport is not recommended unless you know Arabic and have enough time for navigation and transport.
• Buy a SIM card on arrival at the airport, as data is affordable in the country. Plus, emergency numbers and Google Maps will be available to you.

Top places for solo female travellers

The best places for solo female travellers are the deserts and the smaller towns around the Red Sea. Some of the top attractions are:

• One of the world’s most amazing coral reefs is found in Egypt, with wildlife like dolphins, sharks, and dugongs spotted in the south. Egypt is home to amazing diving sites, and you can begin by diving in Dahab. International and local divers can be found here. If diving is not for you, then spend time doing outdoor activities such as rock climbing, kitesurfing, and hiking in the mountains. At sunrise, do not forget to visit Mount Sinai, where Moses received the Ten Commandments.

Marsa Alam is another diving spot for solo female tourists. Here you will find sea turtles, dolphins, dugongs, eagle rays, and more. Take a day trip from Dahab and visit the Ros Mohamed Marine Park if you are interested in snorkelling. Hurghada is another diving spot.

• On the trip to Egypt, the desert must be visited. Siwa and White Desert are the most unique places to visit. Siwa has the most unique natural landscapes and is a safe place. The top activities to be done are a jeep safari and visiting the salt flats. White Desert is best for an overnight camping experience.

Top cities for solo female travellers

Cairo and Giza

Cairo is a central hub where activities like eating at restaurants by the River Nile, visiting the museums can be done. Ciza is just a 40-minute drive from Cairo and can be visited on a day trip. A guide can be hired to see the Pyramids and get the historical information.

Luxor

Many local markets can be found here, where locals will try to sell things to you. The best historic places to visit are the Karnak temple and, Valley of the Tombs. Hot air balloon rides can be done over the valley.

Aswan

Since it is located close to Sudan, you can see the influence. People are hospitable, and the markets are safe. Visit the most impressive temple, Abu Simbel, and in the afternoon, a felucca around the river can be taken.

A cruise on the River Nile can be booked in Aswan, with all the tickets included. Otherwise, the tickets to the monuments for foreigners can be expensive.

Conclusion

Travelling to Egypt alone can be an unforgettable experience when planned carefully and with awareness of local customs. Respecting the local customs will help to make your trip safe. The cost of the trip depends on the accommodation, food, activities, and transport.