Start a journey where ancient history meets sunny adventures. This guide is your path to solo travel in Egypt. You’ll find friends in small groups of up to 16 people. Share stories under desert skies or enjoy tea in Cairo’s markets.
80% of travelers stay in touch long after they return. Egypt is also budget-friendly, with $5 hostels and $15 meals. Daily costs start at $25, and mid-range hotels cost $30–$60.
Try street food for under $5 or spend $150 on a hot air balloon ride. Every step, from camel-free tours to $20 trains, lets you blend in. Egypt’s magic is waiting for you.
Explore the Pyramids or haggle with vendors. This guide prepares you. Arrive at Cairo Airport by 2 PM and pack under 23kg for flights. Let’s make your solo dreams come true.
Getting Started with Your Egyptian Solo Adventure
Planning a trip to Egypt alone? Here are some tips to get you started. Whether you’re experienced or new to solo travel, these steps will help you begin well.
Best Times to Visit Egypt as a Solo Traveler
- Visit in September–November or March–April for nice weather.
- Stay away from summer in Cairo and Luxor when it’s over 100°F (38°C).
- Winter (December–February) is cool but can get chilly at night.
Essential Documents and Visa Requirements
- Make sure your passport is good for 6+ months after you leave.
- U.S. citizens pay $25 for a single-entry visa at Egyptian airports.
- Carry copies of your documents and travel insurance info.
Packing Essentials for Egyptian Climate and Culture
- Wear loose, light clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.
- Bring sunscreen with SPF 50+, a hat, and a water bottle you can reuse.
- Take $30–$50 in $1 bills for tips (about $0.50–$1).
Pre-Trip Research Worth Doing
- Read Egypt: 5000 Years of Art and Architecture to learn about sites.
- Watch Egypt Unwrapped on Netflix for cultural insights.
- Learn basic Arabic like shukran (thank you) and laa shukran (no, thank you).
Safety Tips for Solo Travelers in Egypt
Solo travel safety in Egypt depends on making smart choices and knowing the local scene. Follow these tips for a worry-free trip:
- Use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Careem for safe, tracked rides. Make sure to agree on the fare before you start to avoid any issues.
- Wear modest clothes in public. Choose long sleeves and pants to blend in and avoid unwanted stares.
- Keep your valuables safe in hotel safes. Hide your wallet and passport in crowded places like the Pyramids or Khan el-Khalili market.
- Stay in well-lit areas at night, mainly in busy cities like Cairo. Avoid lonely spots where pickpocketing is more common.
- Sign up with your embassy before you leave and save important numbers: Egyptian tourist police (126) and your embassy’s contact info.
- Use the female-only cabins in Cairo’s metro’s first/second cars for a safer ride. Choose first-class trains for safer trips between cities.
- Learn simple Arabic phrases like “la teshekor” (thank you) to connect with locals. Many speak English in tourist areas.
- Don’t take unmarked taxis; always note the driver’s details if you use private transport. Be cautious of expensive tours near landmarks.
- Stay in hostels or hotels with 24-hour security. Budget options like Hostelworld in Cairo start at $5/night and are safe.
- Buy travel insurance that covers theft, medical care, and trip cancellations. While petty theft is common, violence is rare.
Traveling solo in Egypt means being careful but not scared. Most Egyptians are friendly—trust your gut and be cautious with strangers. Remember, 90% of scams happen near big sites like Luxor temples or Aswan markets. Stay alert and enjoy the adventure!
Budgeting for Your Solo Egyptian Journey
Planning a budget solo trip to Egypt means finding ways to save money. You can still see amazing sights without spending too much. Egypt travel guides for solo travelers show you how to do it.
Average Daily Costs for Solo Travelers
- Budget-friendly: Spend $25–$50 daily. Stay in hostel dorms ($5–$8/night), eat street food ($1–$2/meal), and use local buses (under $0.50).
- Moderate: Aim for $50–$100. Choose private hostel rooms ($15–$20), mid-range hotels ($30–$60/night), and Uber rides under $5.
- Luxury options: Expect $100+ for deluxe hotels, Nile cruises ($200–$300/3 days), or first-class trains ($20–$30/ticket).
Money-Saving Tips
- Grab a Cairo Pass ($80) for 50% off major attractions like the Pyramids of Giza.
- Eat where locals do: falafel sandwiches cost $1, and a full meal at a guesthouse is $10.
- Book flights via Skyscanner for up to 50% savings; night buses ($10–$25) are cheaper than trains.
Tips on Tipping and Bargaining
Etiquette matters: Tip 10% at restaurants and always bargain at markets. Taxis and felucca rides often have fixed prices, but ask politely. Avoid overpaying by learning Arabic phrases like “Beytayy” (half price)!
Navigating Transportation as a Solo Explorer
Getting around Egypt’s sights is easier with the right transport. This Egypt travel guide for solo travelers shares key tips for a safe and easy trip. Whether you’re in Cairo or heading to Luxor, these tips for solo travelers in Egypt will help you.
Getting Around Cairo and Alexandria
The metro in Cairo is cheap and easy to use. For direct rides, try Uber or Careem. These apps show who’s driving and how much it costs. Stay away from unmarked taxis and crowded buses. In Alexandria, the tram is a safe way to see places like the Bibliotheca Alexandrina.
Long-Distance Travel Between Egyptian Cities
- Trains: First-class trains, like those from Cairo to Luxor, have air-conditioning and reserved seats. Book early for the best seats.
- Flights: Flying within Egypt, like from Cairo to Aswan, saves a lot of time. Look for cheap flights online.
- Buses: For long trips, like Cairo to Abu Simbel, take a luxury bus. Companies like El Galala or Misr Tours offer comfort.
Hiring Private Drivers vs. Public Transportation
Private drivers cost between 20–50 USD an hour. They offer flexibility. Use Localist to find trusted drivers. Public transport is cheaper but requires caution:
- Trains: First-class carriages are best for solo travelers.
- Taxis: Always use the meter or apps like Uber.
- Buses: Sit in the front and travel during the day.
Use both private drivers and public transport. Hire a driver for places like Saqqara, then use buses or trains for city tours. Always check routes and book in advance for safety.
Where to Stay: Accommodation Options for Solo Adventurers
Egypt has many places to stay, from cheap hostels to old hotels. For budget solo travel Egypt trips, try Madina Hostel in Cairo or Dahab Hostel by the Red Sea. Dorm beds start at $5, and private rooms are $15. These places are great for meeting new people, perfect for Egypt solo travel itinerary plans.
- Hostels: Pick hostels in Cairo, Luxor, or Dahab for a friendly atmosphere. Madina Hostel has dorms and private rooms. Dahab Hostel is loved by backpackers for its ocean views.
- Guesthouses: Family-run guesthouses cost $20/night and include breakfast. Stay in the center for easy access to attractions.
- Mid-Range Hotels: Hotels like Sofitel El Gezirah offer comfort at $30–$60 per night. They have infinity pools and Nile views.
- Luxury Stays: Historic hotels like Cairo Marriott Mena House offer luxury at a good price. They have unique dining or locations that add value to your Egypt solo travel itinerary.
- Unique Options: Try sleeping on a Nile houseboat or joining desert camps. Stay at boutique spots like Villa Belle Époque, a colonial-era villa with 16 rooms.
Plan your Egypt solo travel itinerary with Nile cruises. They cost $200–$300 for 3 days and include meals and tours. Look for well-reviewed places on Hostelworld for safety and comfort. Whether you’re backpacking or seeing UNESCO sites, Egypt has many places to stay that fit your budget and adventure style.
Understanding Egyptian Culture and Customs
Showing respect is crucial for solo travel in Egypt. These tips help you connect with locals and stay comfortable. Learning local customs makes your trip more meaningful and memorable.
Respectful Behavior at Religious Sites
- Cover shoulders and knees at mosques, churches, or holy sites. Use scarves or shawls if needed.
- Remove shoes before entering prayer areas. Look for shoe storage at entrances.
- Ask permission before taking photos of worshippers or sacred objects. Turn off phones during prayers.
Communication Tips and Basic Arabic Phrases
Learn a few Arabic phrases to connect:
- “Salaam alaykum” (Peace be upon you) – a greeting
- “Shukran” (Thank you) – say it often for service
- “Bikam dah?” (How much is this?) – for bargaining
- “La shukran” (No, thank you) – a polite refusal
English is common in tourist areas, but speaking Arabic is appreciated. Smile and use gestures to help.
Handling Attention as a Foreign Visitor
- Politely say “la shukran” if you don’t want something. Be firm but friendly.
- Set boundaries calmly. Walk away if needed. Most interactions are just curiosity.
- Carry small bills for quick tips (baksheish) for services like guides or drivers.
Egyptians are curious about visitors. Being confident and kind makes interactions positive.
Must-See Attractions in Egypt for Solo Travelers
When planning your solo journey, focus on the best places to visit in Egypt. These spots mix history, adventure, and easy exploration. Here’s a list of must-see attractions in Egypt for solo travelers with helpful tips:
- Pyramids of Giza: Begin with the Great Pyramids, a timeless wonder that draws 14 million visitors each year. Get there early to avoid crowds and see the Sphinx. A private guide can offer more insights, but solo visits are safe during the day.
- Egyptian Museum in Cairo: Explore 120,000 artifacts, including Tutankhamun’s gold. Use an audioguide for a self-paced tour. The museum’s shaded areas are great for quiet reflection.
- Luxor’s Temple Complex: This open-air museum has a third of the world’s antiquities. Visit in the morning to avoid the heat. Evening sound-and-light shows are also popular. Group tours help navigate the large sites.
- Abu Simbel: Near Aswan, these massive temples are best seen on a day tour. The best time for photos is at dawn. The 3-hour drive from Aswan is worth seeing Ramses II’s statues.
- Red Sea Diving Spots: Dahab’s Blue Hole is perfect for pro divers, while Sharm El Sheikh is great for beginners. Dive shops often pair solo travelers for safety and friendship.
- Aswan’s Nile Sunset Cruises: Take a felucca (traditional sailboat) for a peaceful ride. Over 60% of tourists enjoy this. Shared cruises are a chance to meet others.
Plan wisely: visit from October to April, use Uber for transport, and join group tours at sites like the Valley of the Kings. Whether you’re sailing the Nile or diving in clear waters, these best places to visit in Egypt make your solo trip both exciting and comfortable.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures for the Solo Explorer
Want to explore Egypt’s hidden spots? Solo travel in Egypt offers more than the usual tourist paths. Here are some off-grid places to visit in Egypt:
- Siwa Oasis Serenity
Siwa Oasis is a hidden gem in the Western Desert. It has salt lakes, palm groves, and the Oracle Temple of Amun. Stay in eco-lodges or join guided treks for a peaceful experience. - Luxor’s Nubian Village Life
Visit Aswan’s Nubian villages for a unique experience. Enjoy felucca sunset cruises with locals or pottery workshops. These are great solo travel experiences in Egypt. - White & Black Desert Safaris
Explore the White Desert on camelback or hike in the Black Desert. These desert trips offer sunrise tours and stargazing. Guides are available through local operators. - Red Sea Coastal Retreats
Head to Marsa Alam or Dahab for beautiful beaches. These spots are great for diving and snorkeling. December temperatures are around 75°F, perfect for solo travelers.
Plan your trip: Excursions cost $20–$50 per day. Use apps like Roadtrippers for safe travel plans. From Siwa’s cafes to Luxor’s hidden temples, these places connect you to Egypt’s soul.
Culinary Discoveries: Eating Your Way Through Egypt
An Egypt travel guide for solo travelers must talk about food. You’ll find everything from street carts to cozy coffeehouses. Here are some dishes you must try and tips to enjoy every bite:
- Koshari: Egypt’s favorite dish, made of rice, lentils, onions, and tomato sauce, costs $1–$2. You can find it anywhere.
- Falafel sandwiches: For less than a dollar, enjoy crispy falafel in a pita with herbs and tahini. Street vendors in Khan al-Khalili Bazaar have them.
- Molokhia: A green stew served with rice or bread, it’s a family favorite. You can find it in family-run places.
- Basbousa: A sweet semolina cake with syrup and coconut or nuts is just $3. It’s a great dessert.
In Cairo’s markets, street food is a big deal. Ahwas (coffeehouses) are perfect for enjoying mint tea. For $10–$15, try Abou Tarek in Alexandria. For a treat, dine by the Nile in Luxor for $20–$30.
- Ask for shisha discounts at cafés to meet locals.
- Say “la a’sha” (“I’m not hungry”) to politely decline food.
- Drink bottled water at $0.30 a bottle to stay safe.
Dining alone in Egypt is welcoming. Locals often invite you to join their tables. With dishes like grilled fish in Alexandria or spiced shawarma for $3–$5, every meal is a story. You can explore without spending too much.
The Complete Egypt Travel Guide for Solo Female Travelers
Preparation is key for solo female travel in Egypt. Egypt is a mix of history and hospitality. Knowing the culture and safety tips helps you feel confident. You can explore from Cairo’s markets to Luxor’s ruins safely and comfortably.
Dress Code Recommendations for Women
- Wear loose clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. Scarves or pashminas are good for modesty in places like the Egyptian Museum or Islamic Cairo.
- Choose light fabrics for hot summer days. Wear light layers for the desert. A hat and sunglasses protect you from the sun and unwanted attention.
Building a Support Network
- Connect with Egypt Tours Portal for guided tours for solo women. They offer trips to Cairo’s Pyramids, Nile cruises, and Red Sea snorkeling.
- Use apps like Meetup to find local women’s groups in Cairo or Alexandria. Women-only coworking spaces in Cairo host events for travelers.
Harassment Prevention and Response Strategies
Stay alert but don’t be scared. Here are some tips:
- Carry a small water bottle to politely say no to unwanted attention.
- Use Uber for rides. It’s easier than taxis in Cairo, Alexandria, and Hurghada.
- Learn Arabic phrases like “la ashuf” (I don’t see you) to set boundaries without trouble.
- Have a local SIM card with GPS for easy navigation and emergency calls.
Female-Friendly Accommodations and Tours
- Stay at women-only hostels like Cairo’s Women’s International Peace Hotel. Or book guesthouses in Sharm El-Sheikh with female staff. Many Nile cruises have solo cabins with 24-hour security.
- Join women-only tours with Intrepid Travel. They work with local guides who know solo travel safety in Egypt. These tours include female-led Nile trips and desert camping.
Conclusion: Embracing the Magic of Egypt on Your Own Terms
Planning your Egypt solo travel is easy with this guide. You can explore Cairo’s markets or Luxor’s temples. Each step lets you connect with history and culture.
Start with a 7-day trip to the Pyramids of Giza. Then, go on a 10-day adventure to Luxor’s Karnak Temple or dive in Dahab. You can stay in $5 hostels or take $15 Nile felucca rides. Mid-range hotels and tours offer comfort without breaking the bank.
Egypt is safe and full of adventure. Visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Alexandria or the Nile in Aswan. Women can find support in family guesthouses and group tours.
Nile cruises like the MS Jaz Crown Jubilee are inclusive. Dress modestly and be respectful to make friends. Choose from a 2-week mix of Cairo and Luxor or a quiet Sharm El-Sheikh retreat.
Peak season (Oct–Apr) is cooler but busier. Off-peak months are quieter and cheaper. Use this guide to make your trip your own. Egypt’s wonders are waiting for you.
Are you ready for adventure? Your Egypt solo travel journey begins now.
Read our Related Article:
