Egypt is famous for its long history, going back to the very start of civilization. This history is evident in the country’s many ancient monuments. However, Egypt is also known as a challenging place for solo female travelers, a reputation that might be as familiar as its pyramids.
Earlier this year, I traveled alone across Egypt for six weeks, visiting places from Alexandria to Aswan and beyond. While the journey had its difficulties, it was incredibly rewarding and full of new experiences.
Thinking about visiting Egypt on your own? Here are six key lessons I learned from my time there.
1: Consider Joining a Small Group Tour
While traveling in a group might seem the opposite of going solo, in Egypt, it can greatly improve your experience. The country is not set up for easy solo travel. There isn’t much information at historical sites, so to understand the ancient hieroglyphs and stories, having an expert guide is very helpful. Also, prices aren’t always fixed, so you might spend more time negotiating than enjoying the sights. While guides are available at many tourist spots, having your own guide or joining a group helps you focus on the experience rather than worrying about details.
Remember, traveling solo doesn’t mean you have to be alone. Joining a group lets you meet others who love adventure, which can lead to shared experiences and friendships.
2: Dress Respectfully
Egypt is a conservative Muslim country, so it’s important to dress respectfully. Both women and men should cover their upper arms and knees. While swimwear and shorts are fine at resorts and on Nile cruises, it’s better to dress modestly in cities and rural areas.
You don’t need to wear traditional clothing like an abaya or headscarf unless you’re visiting a mosque. However, wearing long, loose-fitting clothes will keep you cool and show respect for the local culture. Consider packing long skirts, loose pants, t-shirts, and light tops.
3: Keep a Positive Attitude
Tourism is very important to Egypt’s economy, and it is still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic and past political unrest. With many people relying on tourism for their income, competition for tourists can be intense. While the constant sales pitches and questions might be tiring, they are rarely meant to be harmful.
As you visit Egypt’s historical sites, you’ll likely see markets and vendors eager to sell their goods. If you’re not interested, it’s best to keep walking and not engage too much. Having a relaxed attitude can help, even if it feels a bit different from what you’re used to.
Egyptians love to joke, so if you’re up for it, engage with a smile. You can playfully tell a story about where you’re from, or if the sales talk becomes too much, kindly decline by saying you already have what they’re offering.
4: Pack the Right Accessories
The strong Egyptian sun makes sunglasses essential, no matter when you visit. They can also help you avoid direct eye contact, which can reduce interactions with persistent vendors.
Some women suggest wearing a fake wedding ring to avoid unwanted attention, but this may not always work. Even if noticed, people may still ask you questions—out of curiosity—about why you’re traveling alone, your marital status, and how you’re managing away from home.
In cities like Cairo and Alexandria, where tourism is less central, you may attract less attention. Cairo’s Metro system also has women-only cars, which can provide a more comfortable ride.
5: Get a Local SIM Card
If you plan to travel around Egypt on your own, a local SIM card or a data plan that works in Egypt is important. Reliable internet access helps you use maps, especially in complex areas like Islamic Cairo and the Khan el-Khalili bazaar. But remember to put your phone away at times to enjoy getting lost in the experience.
Uber operates in several Egyptian cities, including Cairo, Alexandria, and Hurghada, offering a convenient option without having to negotiate prices with taxi drivers. Having mobile data also keeps you connected with friends back home and those you meet in Egypt, as many accommodations and tour operators use WhatsApp for communication.
It’s a good idea to buy a SIM card on your arrival, as it might be harder to find one in the city where English is less common.
6: Stay Flexible and Have Fun
Traveling solo in Egypt can be challenging, especially for women, but it’s also a great adventure for those who seek it. While having a detailed plan might be helpful in other countries, in Egypt, some of the best experiences come from going with the flow. You never know who you might meet on a tour, in a café, or on a train.
Every day in Egypt is a new adventure. Enjoy it!
Ready to explore Egypt on your own terms but with the support of a small group? Consider joining a well-organized tour that offers a mix of guided experiences and free time to explore on your own.
