The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued updated travel guidance for British nationals planning to visit Egypt’s Red Sea resorts. The updated advice focuses on key safety areas, including diving and snorkeling, wildlife awareness, and desert excursions, urging travelers to exercise caution and adhere to recommended safety protocols. The FCDO urges travelers to pay close attention to safety advice related to diving, snorkeling, wildlife, and desert activities.
Diving and Snorkeling: Key Safety Tips
The FCDO has highlighted the risks associated with diving in the Red Sea, noting that safety standards vary significantly among operators. Travelers should:
- Choose Reputable Operators: Book diving and snorkeling trips through well-established companies that follow strict safety protocols.
- Verify Insurance Coverage: Ensure travel insurance covers diving and snorkeling activities, including provisions for expensive air or sea rescues.
- Follow Safety Practices: Always dive with a buddy or guide, stay within depth limits set by insurance policies, and be mindful of weather changes that may affect safety.
Wildlife Awareness: Stay Informed
Though shark attacks in the Red Sea are rare, incidents have occurred. To minimize risks, the FCDO advises travelers to:
- Stay Informed: Keep up to date with information from local authorities and tour operators regarding marine wildlife. Follow their guidance to avoid dangerous situations.
Desert Excursions: Quad Biking and Landmine Risks
The FCDO also warns of the dangers associated with desert activities, particularly quad biking and landmines. Several British nationals have been injured in quad biking accidents. To stay safe, travelers should:
- Quad Biking Precautions: Always wear a crash helmet and ensure the operator follows safety standards.
- Unexploded Landmines: Some desert areas near El-Alamein, Marsa Matrouh, and south of Suez may still have landmines. These regions are marked with warning signs and fencing. Travelers should stick to marked paths and follow local advice to avoid danger.
General Travel Restrictions and Advice
The FCDO continues to advise against all travel to North Sinai and within 20 kilometers of the Egyptian/Libyan border. Travel to El Salloum is only allowed for essential purposes. Travelers are urged to stay informed and consult official FCDO travel advice regularly for any updates.
By following these safety recommendations, British nationals can ensure a safer, more enjoyable experience in Egypt.
