How to avoid scams in Egypt travel

How to avoid scams in Egypt travel

• Apr 05, 2026

Let’s be real for a second: Egypt is an incredible, life-changing place to visit, but it’s also famous for "the hustle." Because tourism is such a huge part of the economy, you’ll encounter people who have turned selling services into a high-stakes art form. Most of the time, it’s harmless—just someone trying to make a living—but there are a few classic "tourist traps" that can leave you feeling frustrated or short-changed.

In 2026, the Egyptian government has cracked down on aggressive street vending, especially around the Giza Plateau and the Grand Egyptian Museum. Still, being "street smart" is your best defense. Here is the "no-filter" guide on how to spot the common scams and sidestep them like a local.

The "Free" Gift Scam

This is the oldest trick in the book. Someone will approach you with a friendly smile and hand you a small "gift"—maybe a limestone cat, a papyrus bookmark, or a traditional scarf. They’ll say, "It’s a gift for you! Welcome to Egypt!"

The Trap: The moment you take it, the "gift" is no longer free. They will follow you, insisting on a "small tip" for their children or their family. If you try to give it back, they might refuse to take it, making you feel guilty for "keeping" it without paying.

How to Avoid It: Never take anything that is handed to you. Keep your hands at your sides or behind your back. A firm but polite "No, thank you" (or "La, shukran") while continuing to walk is the only way to end the interaction.

The "Closed Gate" or "Wrong Way" Trick

As you walk toward a major site like the Pyramids or the Citadel, a helpful-looking person might stop you and say, "Sir/Madam, that gate is closed today for a private event," or "The entrance moved to the other side."

The Trap: They aren't trying to help you. They are trying to divert you to their friend’s camel stable, papyrus shop, or "alternative" tour. They want to lead you away from the official entrance so they can sell you something you don't need.

How to Avoid It: Trust your GPS and the official signage. If a gate is actually closed, there will be uniformed Tourist Police or official staff there to tell you. Never follow a "helpful stranger" who tells you a major landmark is closed.

The Camel Ride "Re-Negotiation"

Riding a camel at the Pyramids is a bucket-list item, but it’s also the site of the most famous scam. You’ll agree on a price—let’s say 500 EGP—and you hop on.

The Trap: Once you are on the camel, the price suddenly changes. Or, more commonly, the "ride" is 500 EGP, but "getting down" costs another 500. Occasionally, they might take you on a longer route than agreed and demand extra for the "extended tour."

How to Avoid It: Only book through official government kiosks (which have fixed prices) or through a reputable tour operator. If you do negotiate with a local driver, be extremely specific: "500 pounds for the ride, the photos, the tip, and getting off. Total. Yes?" Get a verbal confirmation before the camel stands up.

The "I Work at Your Hotel" Scam

While walking around Downtown Cairo or Luxor, a man might approach you and say, "Hey! Don’t you remember me? I’m the chef/waiter from your hotel!" He’ll be incredibly friendly, ask about your trip, and then mention that his brother has a "special government-authorized" spice or perfume shop nearby that’s having a "one-day-only" sale.

The Trap: He doesn't work at your hotel. He likely saw your hotel's luggage tag or just guessed a popular one (like the Marriott or Hilton). He’s a "commission man" who gets a cut if you buy anything at the shop he leads you to.

How to Avoid It: Be skeptical of overly familiar strangers. If you don't recognize them, you don't know them. A polite "Sorry, I’m in a rush" is all you need to say.

The "Broken Meter" Taxi

If you aren't using Uber or Careem, you’ll be using white taxis. Many drivers will tell you their meter is broken or that the price is "fixed" at a much higher rate than it should be.

The Trap: They’ll charge you triple the actual fare because you’re a tourist and might not know the distance.

How to Avoid It: Always insist on the meter ("Al-addad, min fadlak"). if they refuse, just get out and find another taxi—there are thousands of them. Alternatively, agree on the price before you put your bags in the trunk. Better yet? Stick to Uber, where the price is set by the app.

The "Confusing Currency" Trick

Egyptian money can be confusing. There is a 50 Piaster note (which is half a pound) and a 50 Pound note. They look somewhat similar to an untrained eye.

The Trap: When you pay with a 200 EGP note, a dishonest vendor might quickly swap it for a 20 EGP note while you aren't looking and claim you "underpaid." Or they might give you change in Piasters instead of Pounds.

How to Avoid It: Count your money out loud as you hand it over. "Here is one hundred... and here is two hundred." Always check your change before you walk away from the stall or step out of the taxi.

The "Golden Rule" for a Scam-Free Trip

The best way to avoid being scammed is to carry yourself like you know where you’re going. * Walk with purpose.

Wear sunglasses (it makes it harder for "hustlers" to catch your eye).

Use the "Hand on Heart" gesture when saying no; it’s a sign of respect that signals you aren't a "clueless" tourist.

Most Egyptians are incredibly honest and will go out of their way to help you if you’re in real trouble. If someone is truly bothering you, look for a Tourist Police officer. Just the mention of the "Police" is usually enough to make a persistent scammer disappear instantly.

Don't let the fear of scams ruin your trip—treat it like a game, stay friendly but firm, and you’ll have a fantastic time!