Egypt is a stunning country with a rich history, incredible landmarks like the Pyramids, and vibrant cities that offer countless experiences. However, like many popular tourist destinations, it also has its share of scams targeting unsuspecting visitors.

From other blogs and online reviews I have read so many positive things and many negative things about Egypt. One of the biggest things I read was people had a bad experience in Egypt because of scams they faced. While tourist scams happen everywhere around the world, I thought I would highlight a few I saw in Egypt and how to avoid them.

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Taxis in Egypt are notorious for taking advantage of tourists, especially if you’re not familiar with the local price range. Always agree on the fare before starting your journey, or better yet, use a ride-hailing app like Uber or Careem, where they fix the prices. Some ride-hailing apps will try to use the chat function to charge you more, if you come across this just cancel and find another driver.

 I also highly recommend switching from card payment to cash as you are more likely to get a driver. If you must hail a street taxi, ensure the driver uses the meter (if they have one). If not, negotiate the price upfront.

Many tourists fall victim to the “free gift” scam, where a friendly local offers you a “free” souvenir or service, such as a henna tattoo or a photo with a camel, only to demand an exorbitant fee afterward. You can expect nothing in Egypt to be free. Granted, if you want someone to take a picture just give them a small tip and be on your way.

While Egypt has many legitimate and knowledgeable guides, there are also those who will approach you outside major tourist sites, offering tours at inflated prices. These fake guides often have no official credentials and can provide misinformation.

If you want a tour guide, take your time and do some research prior to your visit. There is a great resource on TripAdvisor that has recommended guides. Trust the reviews from accounts that have a decent amount of posts. Some tour guides will try to give themselves a positive review, but they will have a new account with only a handful of posts. I found 3 of my tour guides via Viator and they were knowledgeable and gave a fair price. 

You may encounter street performers or musicians who will ask for money after they’ve performed. They might approach you or your group, play music, or put on a show, and then demand money afterward, even if you didn’t ask for it. They will follow you for a while, just politely keep declining and walk away.

Exchanging currency on the street or in random shops is a major scam in Egypt. They will give you a horrible exchange rate. One of the nice thing is that many places in Egypt will take the Egyptian Pound, Pound, or the United States Dollars. 

If you want to take out Egyptian Pound, I recommend using a ATM. ATMs in Egypt can be found at banks or many hotels. Just make sure to check the withdrawal fee as this can be high sometimes. The main downside to the ATMs is the do usually limit the amount of money allowed to be withdrawn, so you might have to make a few transactions.

Some restaurants or shops might surprise you with “service fees” or “tourist charges” added to your bill. These can often be excessive and are sometimes hidden until you’ve already ordered. Always check your bill carefully before paying and ask about any additional charges upfront.

While Egypt is home to incredible archaeological wonders, it’s also a hotspot for counterfeit artifacts. Street vendors and unofficial shops actively tempt tourists to buy ‘ancient’ pieces of art or souvenirs, often selling cheap counterfeits made in China at outrageously high prices. Even if they did have a real artifact, it is highly illegal to purchase. This is probably the most common scam in Egypt that multiple tour guides warned me against.

In conclusion, Egypt is a magnificent destination with an incredible history and an overwhelming sense of adventure waiting to be discovered. By staying aware of common scams, respecting the local culture, and taking practical steps to safeguard your personal belongings and finances, you can fully immerse yourself in the magic of Egypt without letting scammers get in the way.

The key to a successful trip is preparation. By knowing what to expect and staying vigilant, you’ll ensure your visit to Egypt is as enjoyable, enriching, and memorable as possible.