Transparency and consumer protection are non-negotiable pillars of the tourism industry in Egypt. This case study outlines documented allegations submitted to relevant platforms regarding Tarzan Egypt Tours, highlighting why travelers must always verify licensing and operational legitimacy before booking.

Background: A Long-Term Relationship That Raised Red Flags

For many years, a senior tour operator (Mahmoud Saad) worked with Emo Tours Egypt, one of Egypt’s established licensed tour companies. During this period, trust and access were granted based on tenure and performance.

According to internal findings, concerns emerged when the company owner discovered activities suggesting the operation and promotion of an external tour business under the name “Tarzan Egypt Tours,” allegedly without proper licensing.

Allegations Identified by Emo Tours Egypt

Based on internal records and customer feedback, Emo Tours Egypt alleges the following:

• Use of a different identity in customer communications
  Customers were allegedly contacted under the name “Adam,” while the individual’s real name is Mahmoud Saad.

• Redirection of Emo Tours Egypt customers
  It is alleged that existing Emo Tours Egypt clients were encouraged to submit reviews and engage with a separate TripAdvisor listing associated with “Tarzan Egypt Tours.”

• Third-party involvement outside the tourism sector
  Reviews and photos reportedly showed another individual, known as Mido, accompanying customers. According to available information, this person was not licensed in the tourism field and was reportedly employed at MBC at the time.

How the Issue Was Discovered

The issue came to light after a customer posted a public review on TripAdvisor that included a photograph of “Mido” accompanying the tour. A deeper review of multiple listings and customer photos reportedly showed the same individual repeatedly carrying out bookings and joining guests.

This prompted an internal audit, review of communications, and compilation of evidence.

Formal Action Taken

Emo Tours Egypt states that it:

• Compiled a detailed evidentiary report

• Submitted documentation to TripAdvisor

• Demonstrated that the business in question was allegedly unlicensed

• Confirmed that the operation was linked to a former employee, using identities and intermediaries not disclosed to customers

At the time of writing, this represents Emo Tours Egypt’s documented position based on the evidence it holds.

Why This Matters to Travelers

This case underscores critical risks travelers face when booking tours online:

• Unlicensed operators offer no legal protection

• Misrepresentation of identity erodes accountability

• Insurance, permits, and safety compliance may be absent

• Disputes become difficult or impossible to resolve

How to Protect Yourself When Booking Tours in Egypt

Travelers are strongly advised to:

• Book only with licensed Egyptian tour operators

• Verify company registration via the Egyptian Travel Agents Association (ETAA)

• Avoid bookings handled by individuals on social media or messaging apps

• Be cautious of businesses that redirect reviews from one company to another

• Confirm the real identity and license of the guide and operator

Final Perspective

Egypt remains one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations. However, the integrity of the travel experience depends on licensed operations, transparency, and ethical conduct.

This case study serves as a reminder:
If a tour company cannot be verified, it should not be trusted.