Egypt is back under a Level 2 Egypt travel advisory. On Jul 15 2025, the U.S. State Department reconfirmed its "Exercise Increased Caution" guidance, citing persistent terrorism, rising street crime, and new health concerns such as circulating poliovirus. The alert does not ban travel, but it urges visitors to stay flexible, monitor official channels, and avoid Level 4 zones in Sinai, the Western Desert, and border areas.
Severity: Alert, Affected Area: Egypt nationwide, Effective: Jul 15 2025 - Ongoing
Key Points
- Terror threat remains highest in North Sinai and Western Desert.
- Health note: polio booster recommended for adults.
- Impact on travelers: tighter checkpoints and random ID inspections.
- UK still advises against travel near Libya border.
- STEP enrollment speeds consular help during emergencies.
What Is Happening
Egypt's security forces have reduced high-profile attacks, yet extremist cells still target police, religious sites, and tourist buses, particularly in North Sinai. Petty crime-pickpocketing, scams, and harassment-has spiked in Cairo, Luxor, and Hurghada. Health authorities report circulating poliovirus; adult boosters are advised before entry. Seasonal heat and limited emergency care outside major cities add risk. Despite the challenges, flights and Nile Cruise operations continue, and most tourist zones remain calm, supporting overall Egypt travel safety.
Official Guidance
The U.S. Department of State's Jul 15 notice keeps Egypt at Level 2 but elevates parts of Sinai, the Western Desert, and all remote borders to Level 4 "Do Not Travel." The CDC lists Egypt under its Global Polio Level 2 notice and recommends a single lifetime IPV booster for previously vaccinated adults. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office repeats its long-standing warnings against travel within 20 km of the Libya border and North Sinai. All agencies stress vigilance, avoidance of demonstrations, and respect for local laws-especially on photography, drugs, and public conduct.
Practical Steps
Rebook hotels in Cairo or Red Sea resorts if plans include Sinai interior or Western Desert trips. Carry printed itineraries and keep passports accessible for frequent checkpoints. Purchase comprehensive insurance covering medical evacuation and trip disruption; verify polio booster coverage before departure. Register with STEP and Britain's LOCATE if eligible. Use licensed tour operators for pyramids, Nile cruises, and desert excursions, and confirm they hold permits for restricted roads. Women and LGBTQ travelers should arrange private transfers and avoid isolated areas after dark. Save the U.S. Embassy's (+20 2 2797 3300) and Egyptian emergency numbers (122 for police, 123 for ambulance). Check the Global Travel Alerts hub for live updates.
Final Thoughts
Review route maps and exclude Level 4 zones to maintain Egypt travel safety. A polio booster, modest dress, and situational awareness will mitigate most Egypt terrorism risk. Travel regulations can change rapidly. Confirm requirements with official channels before departure.