cairo

Welcome to Cairo

Cairo, a city with a history dating back over 4,000 years, showcases an extraordinary mix of ancient wonders and modern vitality. Home to the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the famous Egyptian Museum, it holds a treasure trove of ancient artifacts. As the largest city in Africa, Cairo’s bustling streets are adorned with stunning Islamic architecture and countless minarets. The Nile River flows alongside, embodying the city’s lifeline throughout history. Visitors can explore the lively Khan El Khalili Bazaar, delve into the rich religious heritage of Coptic Cairo, and experience the energy of its vibrant urban landscape, though notorious for its traffic and chaos.

Best Things To Do

Giza Pyramids & Sphinx Tour

Offers a visit to the Giza pyramid & Sphinx. A quad bike and camel ride in the desert. Shop for souvenirs. Dinner cruise & belly dancing show on the Nile River.

Day Trip To Luxor From Cairo

You’ll hop a domestic flight to cover the highlights of the southern city in a single day. Enjoy transportation from your hotel and guided tours.

Siwa Oasis Tour from Cairo

Private vehicle with rest stops, snack breaks, and a guide. Explore the Great Sand Sea, salt lakes, ancient ruins, Fatnis Island, and more.

Al-Azhar Park

A beautifully landscaped park in the heart of Cairo, offering a tranquil escape with gardens, fountains, and stunning views.

Cave Church

Located in the Mokattam Hills, this massive church is carved into a rock and offers breathtaking views of the city.

Jazz Bar

A stylish venue by the Nile River, offering stunning views, live Jazz music, wine, beers, and cocktails for Jazz enthusiasts.

The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities

Famous museum with the world’s largest Egyptian artifact collection, including Tutankhamun’s treasures and a royal Mummy room.

Mosque of Muhammad Ali

Located in the Citadel, this mosque was built between 1824 and 1857 in the Ottoman style by Mohammad Ali Pasha, a ruler of Egypt.

Coptic Cairo

Cairo’s oldest area, once Roman Babylon, houses five churches, Egypt’s first mosque, and the oldest synagogue, embodying three major religions.

Accommodation

Kempinski Nile Hotel

Luxury rooms, jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, rooftop pool and more.  Walking distance away from shopping areas, Tahrir square, Egyptian Museum, Opera House.

Dusit Thani LakeView Cairo

Guests are welcomed with elegant rooms and suites, three outdoor swimming pools, a fitness center, world-class spa and an array of fine dining options. 

JW Marriott Hotel Cairo

This award-winning Hotel offers sophistication & personalized service, 24-hour room service, golf course, spa, “The Beach” and endless dining options.

Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza

Minutes away from the pyramids, museum and the market. This hotel offers nine dining options, spa and luxurious rooms overlooking the Nile River.

Fairmont Nile City

Perfect location for business and leisure. This hotel offers stunning views of the Nile & Pyramids, culinary adventure, rooftop poolside restaurant & spa.

Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezirah

Locate on Gezirah Island this hotel offers a pool, SPA, international restaurants and bars. Take a stroll along the hotel’s lush riverside promenade.

Things To Consider

Language

The official language of Egypt is Arabic, and this is the primary language spoken in Cairo. English is also widely understood, especially in tourist areas and among people in the service industry. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases can be very helpful.

Population & Tourist

Cairo has an estimated population of around 20 million residents, which makes it one of the most populous cities in the world.  On top of that they receive around 5.5 million international tourists every year.

Temperatures

SummerWinter
Jun – AugDec – Feb
24°C – 35°C9°C – 20°C
75°F – 95°F48°F – 68°F

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Cairo is during the shoulder seasons, which are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these periods, the weather is more moderate, and it’s a pleasant time to explore the city and its attractions without the extreme heat of summer.

Currency & Budget

The local currency in Cairo and Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Cash is widely used and accepted, especially for small purchases and in local markets. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in many establishments, especially in tourist areas, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for places that might not accept cards. An average budget per day in Cairo is approximately 3000 EGP (approximately $100) depending on your dining choices and activities, excludes accommodation.

Transport

Cairo has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, metro, and microbuses, which are the most common mode of transport for locals. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber are also available for getting around the city. For longer distances or day trips, tourists can also consider hiring private drivers or joining guided tours. Traffic in Cairo drives on the right-hand side of the road. The traffic can be chaotic, and crossing the streets can be challenging. Use designated pedestrian crossings and consider using ride-hailing services or public transportation to navigate the city.

Drinking & Smoking

The legal drinking age in Cairo is 21, with alcohol available at licensed outlets. Public intoxication, however, is looked down upon due to the predominantly Muslim culture. Smoking, with no age restrictions, is prevalent and generally accepted in public places. On the other hand, cannabis is illegal and can attract severe penalties, including imprisonment.

Electric Power Points

Cairo uses Type C and Type F plugs. The Type C plug, also known as the Europlug, has two round pins spaced 19mm apart. The Type F plug is similar but has two earth clips on the side. If your plugs do not match the sockets in Cairo, you’ll need an adapter. 

Visa & Entry requirements

Visa and entry requirements for Cairo can vary based on your nationality. Many nationalities could obtain a visa on arrival or an e-visa for Egypt. It’s crucial to check with the Egyptian embassy or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements.

Safety

While Cairo is generally safe for travelers, it’s essential to be vigilant about your belongings and avoid poorly lit or deserted areas, especially at night.

Dos & Don'ts

  • Stick to bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth to avoid potential stomach issues.
  • Cairo can get extremely hot, especially during the summer months. Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated throughout your visit.
  • Egypt is a conservative country, dress modestly especially when visiting religious sites. It is recommended to cover your shoulders and knees for both women and men.
  • When visiting mosques or other religious sites follow any rules or guidelines set by the site’s authorities.
  • Always use your right hand when greeting locals, handing items to others or eating, as the left hand is considered unclean in Egyptian culture.
  • Remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or certain places like mosques as a sign of respect.
  • Avoid public displays of affection, as it is considered inappropriate in Egyptian culture.
  • Pointing the soles of your feet at someone is considered disrespectful, so try to avoid doing so, especially when sitting or crossing legs.
  • Always ask for permission before taking photos of locals, especially women and religious figures.
  • During the holy month of Ramadan, many locals fast from sunrise to sunset. Many restaurants may be closed during the day but will open for iftar (breaking of the fast) after sunset. It’s important not to eat or drink in public during fasting hours, as it is considered impolite and disrespectful to those who are fasting.
  • Egypt has strict laws against drug use, and penalties can be severe, including lengthy prison sentences.
  • Taking photographs of military installations or personnel is strictly prohibited.
  • It is not allowed to export antiquities or artifacts without proper permits.

More Destinations

Welcome to Bali Bali is often referred to as the “Island of the Gods” due to its strong spiritual aura. Bali is a popular tourist destination known for its spiritual and wellness retreats,

Welcome to Cairo Cairo, a city with a history dating back over 4,000 years, showcases an extraordinary mix of ancient wonders and modern vitality. Home to the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the famous Eg

Welcome to Maui Maui, situated in the Central Pacific, is the second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands. Renowned for its diverse landscapes that stretch from serene beaches to the heights of the dormant

Welcome to Cape Town Cape Town is located on the southwest coast of South Africa, at the foot of Table Mountain. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including beautiful beaches, mountains, an