Scams in Egypt: How to Protect Yourself and Enjoy Your Trip Safely

Practical tips for tourists to avoid scams in Egypt while visiting temples and markets

Egypt receives more than 16 million visitors every year from all around the world, drawn by its ancient history, magnificent temples, and unique landscapes. However, as in any highly popular tourist destination, it is important to stay alert in order to avoid unpleasant situations with insistent vendors or abusive practices.

Here are some essential tips to ensure your experience in the country is smooth and safe:

1.Beware of persistent vendors at historical sites and bazaars

It is common to encounter street vendors at tourist sites, museums, and markets. Many of them insistently offer souvenirs, sometimes even placing the items directly into the visitor’s arms. If this happens, the best approach is simply to let the item fall to the ground and continue walking, without getting involved in arguments.

2. Avoid prolonged eye contact

In bazaars, a careful look at an item can be interpreted as a sign of interest. This increases the persistence of the vendors. If you do not wish to buy, avoid showing curiosity or maintaining eye contact for too long.

3.In bazaars, a careful look at an item can be interpreted as a sign of interest. This increases the persistence of the vendors. If you do not wish to buy, avoid showing curiosity or maintaining eye contact for too long.

In some cases, vendors offer drinks, perfumes, or small items as gifts. However, this practice is often a way to pressure tourists into buying other products at inflated prices. The recommendation is to politely decline.

4. Stay close to your tour guide

When a guide is nearby, vendors usually avoid being insistent. Therefore, whenever possible, stay close to your guide, especially in crowded areas or during peak tourist times.

5. Travel with extra caution if you are alone

Women traveling alone or unaccompanied individuals may feel greater pressure from some vendors. In these situations, a firm posture and silence are important allies. Do not give in to the discomfort of insistence and keep moving forward safely.

Women traveling alone or unaccompanied individuals may feel greater pressure from some vendors. In these situations, a firm posture and silence are important allies. Do not give in to the discomfort of insistence and keep moving forward safely.