Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is a vibrant and bustling city with a rich history and culture. It is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, including the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum. Cairo is also a major center of business and commerce, and it is a popular tourist destination for people from all over the world.
However, before you book your trip to Cairo, there are a few things you should know. This article will provide you with seven essential tips for travelers visiting Cairo, covering everything from culture and etiquette to safety and transportation.
See The List below for the 7 Things Travelers Need To Know Before Visiting Cairo;
1. Culture and Etiquette
Egypt is a Muslim-majority country, and it is important to be respectful of the local culture and customs. This means dressing modestly in public and avoiding public displays of affection. It is also important to be aware of the Islamic prayer times and to refrain from making loud noises during these times.
Here are some specific tips for dressing modestly in Cairo:
- For women, this means covering your shoulders and knees. It is also advisable to avoid wearing tight or revealing clothing.
- For men, this means wearing long pants and a shirt with sleeves. It is also advisable to avoid wearing shorts or tank tops.
If you are visiting a religious site, such as a mosque or church, it is important to dress even more modestly. This may involve covering your head and removing your shoes.
2. Safety
Cairo is generally a safe city for tourists, but it is important to be aware of your surroundings and to take precautions against petty theft. This is especially true in crowded areas, such as bazaars and markets.
Here are some safety tips for travelers visiting Cairo:
- Do not walk alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
- Keep an eye on your belongings at all times, and do not carry large amounts of cash or jewelry.
- Be wary of strangers offering you help or advice.
- If you are approached by a scammer, politely decline their offer and move on.
If you are a victim of crime, it is important to report it to the police immediately. You can also contact your embassy or consulate for assistance.
3. Transportation
Cairo has a good public transportation system, including buses, trains, and the metro. However, it can be crowded and confusing, especially for first-time visitors.
If you are not comfortable using public transportation, you can take taxis or hire a private driver. Taxis are relatively inexpensive, but it is important to agree on a price with the driver before getting in.
Here are some transportation tips for travelers visiting Cairo:
- If you are taking a taxi, make sure to use a licensed taxi. Licensed taxis have yellow license plates and the government taxi logo on the door.
- Agree on a price with the driver before getting in.
- Be aware of traffic scams. For example, some drivers may try to take you on a longer route than necessary.
- If you are hiring a private driver, be sure to ask around for recommendations.
- If you are using public transportation, be aware of pickpockets.
4. Things to do
Cairo has a lot to offer visitors, from its ancient landmarks to its vibrant culture. Here are a few of the must-see attractions:
- Pyramids of Giza: The Pyramids of Giza are one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and a must-see for any visitor to Cairo. You can explore the pyramids, ride a camel, or simply take in the amazing views.
- Sphinx: The Sphinx is a giant limestone statue with the body of a lion and the head of a human. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in Egypt and a popular tourist destination.
- Egyptian Museum: The Egyptian Museum houses the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts. It is a must-see for anyone interested in Egyptian history and culture.
- Khan el-Khalili Bazaar: Khan el-Khalili Bazaar is a traditional Egyptian bazaar where you can find everything from spices and perfumes to souvenirs and gold jewelry. It is a great place to experience the local culture and to do some shopping.
- Cairo Tower: Cairo Tower is a 187-meter-tall tower that offers stunning views of the city. It is a great place to visit at night, when the city is lit up.
These are just a few of the many things to see and do in Cairo. With its rich history and vibrant culture, Cairo has something to offer everyone.
5. Food and Drink
Egyptian cuisine is a delicious and diverse mix of influences from the Mediterranean, Middle East, and Africa. Some of the most popular Egyptian dishes include:
- Koshari: Koshari is a national dish of Egypt and consists of rice, macaroni, lentils, and chickpeas topped with a tomato sauce and fried onions. It is a hearty and affordable meal that is popular with both locals and tourists.
- Ful medames: Ful medames is a traditional Egyptian breakfast dish made from fava beans that are mashed with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. It is often served with bread, vegetables, and eggs.
- Shawarma: Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish made from thinly sliced meat that is cooked on a rotating spit. It is often served in a pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce.
- Kebab: Kebab is another popular Middle Eastern dish made from grilled meat. It is often served with rice, vegetables, and yogurt sauce.
- Baklava: Baklava is a sweet pastry made from layers of phyllo dough filled with nuts and honey. It is a popular dessert in Egypt and other parts of the Middle East.
When eating in Cairo, it is important to be aware of the local culture and customs. For example, it is not considered polite to eat with your left hand. It is also important to finish all of the food on your plate, as it is considered rude to leave food behind.
If you are looking for a place to eat in Cairo, there are many options available. You can find everything from street food vendors to fine dining restaurants. Here are a few tips for finding good food in Cairo:
- Ask your hotel or tour guide for recommendations.
- Look for restaurants that are popular with locals.
- Be wary of restaurants that are located in tourist areas, as they may be overpriced and offer mediocre food.
- If you are unsure about what to order, ask your waiter for recommendations.
6. Shopping
Cairo is a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothes, and other items. Here are a few tips for shopping in Cairo:
- Be prepared to bargain. Bargaining is expected at most markets and shops in Cairo.
- Do not be afraid to walk away from a deal. There are always plenty of other vendors selling the same items.
- Be aware of counterfeit goods. Counterfeit goods are widely available in Cairo, so it is important to be careful when shopping.
- If you are buying a valuable item, such as a piece of jewelry, be sure to get it appraised by a reputable jeweler.
Here are a few of the best places to shop in Cairo:
- Khan el-Khalili Bazaar: Khan el-Khalili Bazaar is a traditional Egyptian bazaar where you can find everything from spices and perfumes to souvenirs and gold jewelry. It is a great place to experience the local culture and to do some shopping.
- Mosque of Ibn Tulun Bazaar: The Mosque of Ibn Tulun Bazaar is a smaller bazaar located near the Mosque of Ibn Tulun. It is a good place to find traditional Egyptian handicrafts.
- City Stars: City Stars is a large shopping mall located in Heliopolis. It is home to over 600 stores, including many international brands.
- Cairo Festival City: Cairo Festival City is another large shopping mall located in New Cairo. It is home to over 300 stores, as well as an amusement park and a cinema.
7. Tips for Travelers
Here are a few additional tips for travelers visiting Cairo:
- Learn a few basic Arabic phrases. This will help you to communicate with locals and to get around more easily.
- Be prepared for the heat. Cairo can be very hot, especially during the summer months. Be sure to drink plenty of water and to wear sunscreen.
- Dress modestly. Egypt is a Muslim-majority country, so it is important to dress modestly in public. This means covering your shoulders and knees.
- Be respectful of the local culture and customs. This includes being aware of the Islamic prayer times and avoiding public displays of affection.
- Be aware of petty theft. Petty theft is a problem in Cairo, especially in crowded areas. Be sure to keep an eye on your belongings at all times.
Cairo is a fascinating and vibrant city with a lot to offer visitors. By following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip.
10 most asked FAQs about traveling to Cairo:
1. Is Cairo safe?
Cairo is generally a safe city for tourists, but it is important to be aware of your surroundings and to take precautions against petty theft. This is especially true in crowded areas, such as bazaars and markets.
2. What should I wear in Cairo?
Egypt is a Muslim-majority country, so it is important to dress modestly in public. This means covering your shoulders and knees. It is also advisable to avoid wearing tight or revealing clothing.
3. What is the best time to visit Cairo?
The best time to visit Cairo is during the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when the weather is mild. Summers can be very hot, and winters can be cool and rainy.
4. What are the must-see attractions in Cairo?
The must-see attractions in Cairo include the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, and Khan el-Khalili Bazaar.
5. How do I get around Cairo?
Cairo has a good public transportation system, including buses, trains, and the metro. However, it can be crowded and confusing, especially for first-time visitors. If you are not comfortable using public transportation, you can take taxis or hire a private driver.
6. What should I eat in Cairo?
Egyptian cuisine is a delicious and diverse mix of influences from the Mediterranean, Middle East, and Africa. Some of the most popular Egyptian dishes include koshari, ful medames, shawarma, kebab, and baklava.
7. What should I shop for in Cairo?
Cairo is a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothes, and other items. Some of the best places to shop in Cairo include Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, the Mosque of Ibn Tulun Bazaar, City Stars, and Cairo Festival City.
8. What should I do if I get sick in Cairo?
If you get sick in Cairo, it is important to see a doctor. There are many hospitals and clinics in Cairo, but it is important to choose a reputable one. You can ask your hotel or tour guide for recommendations.
9. What should I do if I lose my passport in Cairo?
If you lose your passport in Cairo, you should contact your embassy or consulate immediately. You will need to file a police report and obtain a replacement passport.
10. What should I do if I am harassed or scammed in Cairo?
If you are harassed or scammed in Cairo, you should report it to the police immediately. You can also contact your embassy or consulate for assistance.
I hope this answers your questions. Have a safe and enjoyable trip to Cairo!
