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Travellers in Egypt are advised to exercise extreme caution. Three terrorist attacks in April 2005 in Cairo targeted, and
resulted in the deaths and serious injury of, foreign tourists. Further such attacks, in Cairo and elsewhere in Egypt, can be expected.
Possible terrorist targets include commercial and public areas known to be frequented by foreigners such as, but not limited to, hotels,
holiday resorts, clubs, restaurants, bars, schools, marketplaces and shopping centres, places of worship, outdoor recreation events and
tourist areas. Shipping and ports are also potential terrorist targets.
In October 2004 a terrorist attack around the east coast Sinai resorts of Taba and Nuweiba resulted in the deaths of 34 people.
Borders with Israel and Gaza can be closed at short notice. Those intending to travel to Israel via Gaza should consult the department's travel advice for Israel, the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. The Egyptian Embassy in Israel or the Israeli Embassy in Egypt can also provide advice.
Special permits are required to visit border areas, including the border with Libya and off-road areas in the Sinai. These may be obtained from the Travel Permits Department of the Ministry of the Interior in Cairo.
Road travel, particularly at night and outside the major cities can be dangerous as cars, buses and trucks frequently drive without headlights and at high speed. The Cairo Metro (subway) system is effective, but the maintenance and safety standards of other methods of public transport are poor.
Landmines are found in some desert areas and some coastal areas of the country. Local authorities can provide advice on landmine locations.
Seafarers are advised that piracy occurs in the southern Red Sea. This advice should be read in conjunction with our travel bulletin on piracy at sea.
Egypt, particularly Cairo, is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquake activity is most likely in coastal areas. In the event of a natural disaster local authorities will provide advice.
Possession of even small quantities of illicit drugs in Egypt can lead to the death penalty, severe prison sentences or deportation.
Photography of bridges and canals (including the Suez Canal), as well as military personnel and establishments, is prohibited.
Source: Australian Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade
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