Egypt🇪🇬
Egypt, known for its immense historical and cultural wealth, is a transcontinental country located mainly in Africa but with a small part, the Sinai Peninsula, lying in Asia. The country is home to some of the world's most famous architectural structures, including the Giza Pyramids and the Great Sphinx. Egypt shares its borders with Libya to the west, Sudan to the south, Israel and the Gaza Strip to the northeast. The country is defined by the Nile River, producing fertile land amidst the surrounding Sahara Desert. Besides its iconic must-see historical sites, Egypt offers vibrant city life in Cairo, beautiful beach resorts in Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada, incredible scuba diving in the Red Sea, and adventures into the Western Desert.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid drinking tap water to prevent stomach diseases.
- Avoid non-essential travel to the North Sinai due to terrorism.
- Avoid showing public affection if you are in a same-sex relationship.
- Avoid handling illicit drugs as the penalties can be severe.
- Avoid illegal or unlicensed transportation services.
- Avoid traveling alone at night, particularly women.
- Avoid public demonstrations and large gatherings due to potential violence.
- Avoid offending local customs and religious beliefs. Respect cultural norms and dress modestly.
- Avoid leaving belongings unattended in public places to prevent petty theft.
- Avoid any involvement with political activities, as this can lead to detention and deportation.
Overall
4
Crime 🔫
4
Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, are common in Egypt's larger cities, especially in tourist districts. Cairo, Giza, and Alexandria report the highest instances of crime, particularly street robbery. The Egyptian government tends to implement strict penalties in instances of serious crime. It's important for tourists to maintain vigilance about their personal belongings and avoid walking alone at night in secluded areas.
Terrorism 💣
3
Egypt has seen significant terrorist activity in recent decades. In 2021, there were several terrorist attacks carried out by extremist religious groups, especially in North Sinai where a state of emergency is in effect. Major incidents in recent years include the bombing of a tourist bus near the Giza Pyramids in 2019 and an attack on the Rawda mosque in North Sinai in 2017 which killed 305 people.
War ⚔️
7
Egypt has been comparatively stable and has not been at war since the 1980s. There have been internal conflicts, such as the 2011 revolution, which led to political instability, protests, and riots, but these are not classified as wars. The country does maintain mandatory military service for all males, indicating a level of preparedness for potential threats.
Natural Disasters 🌊
7
Natural disasters are relatively rare in Egypt. However, the country occasionally experiences earthquakes, flash floods, and sandstorms. For instance, in 2020, a rare heavy storm resulted in floods that killed approximately 20 people across the country. Droughts are also a growing concern due to climate change.
Medical Care 🏥
5
The quality of healthcare services in Egypt varies, with private hospitals and clinics generally offering better care than public facilities. Moreover, healthcare infrastructure and availability of advanced treatment or specialized care may be limited outside major cities. Medical services usually require up-front payment, and some medications may not be readily available.
Tap Water Quality 💧
3
In most parts of Egypt, the tap water is not safe to drink. Although it is treated in cities, it can still cause stomach problems due to differences in local bacteria. It is generally recommended to stick to bottled water.
Disease Burden 🤒
4
Egypt has made progress in combatting diseases, although challenges remain. Hepatitis C, a significant public health issue, has seen a major decrease due to government initiatives. However, there are occasional outbreaks of diseases like bird flu. The spread of COVID-19 has also been significant.
Corruption 💸
2
Corruption is a major issue in Egypt. Transparency International's 2020 Corruption Perceptions Index ranked Egypt 117 out of 180 countries. Widespread nepotism, bribery, and abuse of power for personal gain are prevalent. Anti-corruption measures have been implemented, but their efficacy remains questionable.
Safety for Women ♀️
3
Safety for women is a concern in Egypt. Sexual harassment is a pervasive issue in public spaces and on public transportation. Women travelers are advised to dress modestly, avoid traveling alone at night, and ignore catcalling or other verbal harassment.
Safety for Queer People 👬
2
Egypt is not a safe country for queer individuals. Homosexuality is not technically illegal, but societal attitudes are highly conservative and discriminatory. Public displays of non-heteronormative behavior or relationships can lead to persecution under vague 'morality laws'.
Censorship 📺
2
The government in Egypt exercises significant control over media and internet, including blocking websites and surveilling online activity. In 2018, a cybercrime law was passed that provides a legal framework to block websites and monitor personal social media accounts. In 2020, lawyer and civil rights activist Mahienour El-Massry was detained for ‘spreading false news’ on Facebook.
Public Transportation 🚌
4
Egypt's public transportation systems are comprehensive, but can be overcrowded and chaotic. Incidents on the network, including fatal train crashes, are a concern. For instance, in March 2021, a train crash in Sohag resulted in 32 deaths and over 160 injured. Public buses are often filled beyond capacity, while the metro in Cairo is a faster but equally crowded alternative. Taxis and rideshares are commonly used by tourists.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Safety levels in Egypt can vary, with petty crime and occasional terrorist attacks posing the greatest concern, particularly in the larger cities and the North Sinai region. Women and LGBTQ+ people also face safety issues. Proper caution and respect of local laws and customs can help to mitigate potential risks. Always being aware of your surroundings, avoiding night travel in unknown areas, and adhering to guidance from local authorities and travel advisories are crucial.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
Various embassies and consulates are located in Cairo, the country’s capital. These include the British Embassy, U.S. Embassy, Canadian Embassy, and Australian Embassy among others.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Recommended vaccinations for travel to Egypt include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Hepatitis B, and Rabies. Depending on the time of visit and locations in Egypt, Malaria medication might also be recommended.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
Egypt's wildlife includes some potentially dangerous animals such as scorpions, Nile crocodiles, and venomous snakes like the Egyptian cobra and the horned viper. Avoid potential habitats of such animals and stay vigilant while traveling in rural and desert areas.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Most nationalities need a visa to enter Egypt. Egypt offers e-Visa service, visa on arrival, as well as visa-free entry for certain countries. Requirements may vary based on the country of origin and purpose of visit.
💲 Currency
The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Exchange services are widely available at banks, hotels, and airports.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Major credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas and tourist resorts. However, it's a good idea to keep cash on hand, particularly for small vendors and in rural areas.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Yes, it's possible, but one should get a precise work visa. Casual work opportunities are limited. Teaching English, working in tourism, and for NGOs are some options. One should check visa requirements and work legality.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
The cost of living and travel in Egypt is generally low compared to many Western countries. Affordable accommodation, cheap local food, and public transportation make Egypt a budget-friendly destination. However, prices can be higher in tourist-centric areas.