Egypt Travel Scams and Safety Tips 2025: What Every Tourist Must Know

Egypt Travel Scams and Safety Tips 2025: What Every Tourist Must Know

Egypt is one of the most fascinating destinations in the world. With its ancient temples, the iconic pyramids of Giza, and the beauty of the Nile River, it attracts millions of travelers every year. However, just like any popular tourist destination, scams and tricks targeting visitors can occur. Many travelers type on Google: *“Is Egypt safe to visit in 2025?”* or *“Egypt travel scams Cairo”*. The good news is that Egypt is generally safe, but being aware of common scams will make your trip smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.

 

In this guide, you’ll learn about the **most common Egypt travel scams in 2025** and get **practical safety tips** for a stress-free journey.

 

 1. Taxi and Transport Scams

One of the most common complaints from tourists in Cairo, Luxor, or Aswan is about taxis. Some drivers refuse to turn on the meter or quote a price that is double the real cost.

**How to Avoid:**

Book your private car with a travel agency or drivers with good reviews. Note you can book it either for 8 hours, or full day, or just per transfer. When you book a full day will be cheaper than one transfer.

 For only 1 transfer, you can use Uber or a taxi. Always agree on the price before entering the taxi if no meter (Usually there is no meter).

 Ask your hotel or tour guide about the average cost of rides.

 

2. Fake Tour Guides

 

Around major attractions like the Pyramids or Karnak Temple, some people will approach you offering to be a “licensed tour guide.” Often, they are not registered and may charge high fees or pressure you to go where they want you to go, not where you want to go.

 

How to Avoid:

 Book your guide in advance through a reputable tour company, as the official guides do not go to search for tourists in front of tourist places except in the classic Egyptian museum

 Only accept guides sending you a copy of an official **Egyptian Ministry of Tourism ID**.

 

 3. Overpriced Camel and Horse Rides

At the Pyramids of Giza, camel and horse rides are popular. However, some handlers promise a short ride for a cheap price, then demand more money before letting you down.

**How to Avoid:**

* Agree on the **exact price and distance** before riding.

* Pay only after the ride is finished. Usually tipping is not included in the price

* Consider booking through a **trusted agency** to avoid hassle.

 

4. Souvenir and Shop Scams

 

In bazaars like Khan el-Khalili, some vendors quote extremely high prices, expecting tourists to haggle. In other cases, fake “antique” items are sold at huge costs.

 

**How to Avoid:**

* Bargain politely—it is part of Egyptian culture.

* Compare prices in different shops.

* Avoid buying “ancient artifacts” — real ones cannot be sold legally.

 

 5.Ticket and Entry Tricks

 

At some sites, you may encounter locals trying to sell “special tickets” or charging extra for photography. Sometimes guards or staff may suggest an “extra fee” to enter closed sections.

 

**How to Avoid:**

 

* Always buy tickets at the **official counter**.

* Check Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism website for official prices.

* Refuse unofficial “fees.”

 

 6. Currency Exchange Confusion

Tourists sometimes receive incorrect change, especially when using Egyptian pounds for the first time. Some scammers also try to mix old or damaged notes.

 

**How to Avoid:**

 

* Learn the look of Egyptian currency (50 piastres vs 50 pounds can confuse tourists).

* Count your change carefully before leaving.

* Use ATMs or exchange money in official banks.

 

 7. “Friendly Stranger” Scam

A local might approach you saying: “Today is a special festival, let me take you to see it,” and then demand tips.

 

**How to Avoid:**

 

* Be polite but firm—decline offers from strangers.

* Stick to your planned itinerary or go with licensed guides.

 

 General **Safety Tips for Egypt in 2025**

 

* **Dress modestly**, especially in rural areas and mosques.

* **Stay hydrated**: Egypt is hot from April to the end of September.

* **Avoid political gatherings** or large protests.

* **Keep valuables** in a hotel safe.

* **Solo female travelers**: Egypt is safe, but use common sense (avoid isolated areas at night, use official taxis).

* Always have a **local SIM card** or portable Wi-Fi to stay connected.

 

 Conclusion

 

Egypt in 2025 remains one of the most rewarding travel destinations in the world. With its rich history and warm people, your experience will likely be unforgettable. By being aware of these **common scams** and following the **safety tips**, you can explore the pyramids, cruise the Nile, and wander through ancient temples with peace of mind.

 

So pack your bags, book your tours wisely, and enjoy the magic of Egypt—without the scams!