Pyramid and Ancient Site Guide Scams
Unofficial Guides at Giza Pyramids
At the Giza Pyramids complex near Cairo, unlicensed guides approach tourists offering insider tours for an initial fee of around 100-200 EGP, then demand additional payments up to 500-1000 EGP for 'extra access' or photos, often blocking paths or creating urgency by claiming sites are closing soon.
- Stick to guides provided by the Supreme Council of Antiquities, who wear official badges.
- Pre-book guided tours through hotels or sites like the Egyptian Tourism Authority to avoid street approaches.
- Politely decline unsolicited offers and move to crowded areas for safety.
Souvenir Overpricing in Site Shops
Near sites like the Giza Pyramids or Abu Simbel, vendors sell papyrus scrolls or statues, initially quoting 50 EGP but inflating to 500 EGP upon bargaining, using aggressive tactics like following tourists or claiming items are 'authentic ancient artifacts' made with local materials.
- Research fair prices beforehand, such as 20-50 EGP for real papyrus in licensed shops.
- Buy only from government-approved stores marked with the 'Made in Egypt' label.
- Use cash sparingly and walk away if pressured, as vendors often back down.
Currency and ATM Exchange Scams
Fake Exchange Rates at Street Booths
In tourist areas like Tahrir Square in Cairo or along the Nile, unlicensed money changers offer rates better than banks, such as 25 EGP per USD instead of 24, but shortchange by swapping bills or giving counterfeit notes during the transaction.
- Exchange money only at banks or official airports like Cairo International, where rates are transparent.
- Count money carefully in front of the exchanger and use apps like XE for real-time rate checks.
- Avoid street exchanges by withdrawing from ATMs with your bank's international card to minimize fees.