Cairo

Cairo is the capital city of Egypt and is one of the largest cities in Africa and the Middle East, with a population of over 10 million people. It is located on the banks of the Nile River and has a rich history that dates back thousands of years.

The city is known for its ancient landmarks, including the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, which are located just outside of Cairo. Other notable landmarks in the city include the Egyptian Museum, which houses an extensive collection of ancient artifacts, and the Cairo Citadel, a medieval fortress that sits atop a hill overlooking the city.

Cairo is also a bustling metropolis, with modern shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It is a major center of commerce and industry in the region, and is home to many multinational companies and organizations.

However, the city faces many challenges, including overpopulation, traffic congestion, and pollution. Despite these issues, Cairo remains an important cultural and economic hub in the Middle East and Africa.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Cairo is during the cooler months from November to February when the temperature is mild and pleasant, and there is little chance of rain. During this time, the average temperature ranges from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), which is comfortable for sightseeing and exploring the city.

In contrast, the summer months from June to August can be extremely hot, with temperatures soaring up to 40°C (104°F) or even higher. It can be challenging to enjoy outdoor activities during this time, and the heat can be exhausting.

However, if you're interested in experiencing the celebrations of Ramadan, which is the Islamic holy month of fasting, visiting Cairo during this time can be a unique and memorable experience. Ramadan falls on a different time each year, so it's essential to check the dates before planning your trip.

The best time to visit Cairo depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to do. If you prefer mild weather, then visiting during the cooler months is advisable. However, if you don't mind the heat and want to experience the city's vibrant atmosphere, visiting during the summer or during Ramadan could be an option.

Best things to see and do

Cairo is a city with a rich history and culture, and there are many things to see and do. Here are some of the best things to see and do in Cairo:

Visit the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx

These ancient wonders are among the most iconic landmarks in the world and are located just outside of Cairo. You can take a tour of the pyramids and learn about their history and significance.

Explore the Egyptian Museum

This museum houses an extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including mummies, sarcophagi, and ancient treasures from Tutankhamun's tomb.

Walk around the historic Islamic Cairo

This neighborhood is home to many historic mosques, madrassas, and bazaars. You can explore the narrow streets and admire the stunning architecture.

Visit the Cairo Citadel

This medieval fortress was built by Salah al-Din in the 12th century and offers panoramic views of the city. It's also home to several museums, including the National Military Museum.

Shop at Khan el-Khalili

This famous bazaar is one of the oldest and most famous in the Middle East. You can find everything from spices and jewelry to traditional clothing and souvenirs.

Take a cruise on the Nile River

This is a great way to see the city from a different perspective and enjoy a relaxing cruise along the world's longest river.

Enjoy traditional Egyptian cuisine

Cairo is famous for its delicious food, including falafel, koshari, and shawarma. Be sure to try some of the local specialties during your visit.

These are just some of the best things to see and do in Cairo, and there are many other attractions and activities to explore in this vibrant city.

Where to shop

Cairo, the capital city of Egypt, has a plethora of shopping options, ranging from traditional markets to modern malls. Here are some popular places to shop in Cairo:

Khan El Khalili: This historic market in the heart of Islamic Cairo is a must-visit for anyone interested in Egyptian souvenirs, spices, textiles, and jewelry.

Citystars Mall: Located in Heliopolis, this mall is one of the largest in Cairo, with over 750 shops selling a variety of goods, including fashion, electronics, and home decor.

Mall of Egypt: Located in 6th of October City, this is another large shopping mall featuring a range of international and local brands, as well as entertainment options like ski slope, cinema and family entertainment center.

Cairo Festival City Mall: Located in New Cairo, this mall has a mix of luxury and mid-range brands, as well as restaurants and cafes.

Downtown Cairo: The downtown area of Cairo has a mix of modern stores and traditional markets, including the Talaat Harb and Abd El Khalek Tharwat streets, known for their clothing stores and shoe shops.

City Center Almaza: Located in the Heliopolis district, this mall is home to many international brands and has a large food court.

The First Mall: This mall, located in the Giza district, offers luxury shopping options, with high-end designer stores and brands.

These are just a few options, there are many other places to shop in Cairo depending on your preferences and budget.

Where to stay

Cairo is a large city with a wide variety of neighborhoods and accommodations to choose from, depending on your budget, preferences, and itinerary. Here are some popular areas to consider:

Downtown Cairo: This is the historic heart of the city, with plenty of museums, cafes, and shops. It's a bustling area that can be noisy and crowded, but it's also very convenient for exploring the sights.

Zamalek: This upscale island neighborhood in the Nile River is known for its restaurants, bars, and art galleries. It's a more peaceful and relaxed area compared to downtown.

Giza: This area is famous for the Great Pyramids of Giza and other ancient Egyptian monuments. There are some luxury hotels in this area that offer spectacular views of the pyramids.

Heliopolis: This is a residential neighborhood that's a bit further from the city center, but it's quieter and more spacious. There are also some upscale hotels and restaurants in this area.

Maadi: This is another residential neighborhood that's popular with expats and foreigners. It's known for its tree-lined streets and villas, as well as its restaurants and cafes.

The best area to stay in Cairo will depend on your interests, budget, and travel style. It's a good idea to research each area and read reviews from other travelers before making a decision.

How to get around

Cairo is a large and bustling city, but there are several ways to get around depending on your preferences and budget. Here are some of the most popular transportation options:

Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Cairo and are a convenient way to get around the city. However, it's important to negotiate the fare before getting into the cab to avoid overpaying. You can also use ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Careem, which offer more transparent pricing and safer rides.

Metro: Cairo has a modern and efficient metro system that covers much of the city. It's a fast and affordable way to get around, with one-way tickets costing only a few Egyptian pounds. However, the metro can get crowded during peak hours.

Buses: Cairo has a network of public buses that connect different parts of the city. While buses are cheap, they can be slow and crowded, and the routes may not be very clear to non-Arabic speakers.

Trams: Cairo also has a tram system that runs along a few main streets. It's a cheap and convenient option, but the trams can get crowded during rush hour.

Walking: Walking is a great way to explore some parts of Cairo, especially in the historic downtown area. However, be prepared for traffic and pollution, and take necessary precautions such as wearing comfortable shoes and staying hydrated.

It's important to keep in mind that traffic in Cairo can be heavy and chaotic, so it's best to plan your route ahead of time and allow extra time for delays. If you're not comfortable navigating the city on your own, consider hiring a local guide or joining a guided tour.

Flights to Cairo

Cairo International Airport (CAI) is the primary international airport serving Cairo, Egypt. It is located about 22 kilometers (14 miles) northeast of the city center. There are many international flights that operate to Cairo, Egypt. There are several airlines that offer flights from the USA to Cairo, Egypt. Some of the major airlines include 

• Emirates 
• Qatar Airways
• EgyptAir
• Turkish Airlines
• Delta Airlines

The airport offers a variety of services and facilities, including restaurants, cafes, duty-free shops, ATMs, currency exchange, and car rental agencies. There are also several lounges available for passengers, including those operated by airlines and independent companies.

To get to and from the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or the Cairo Metro. Taxis are available at the airport 24/7 and can be found outside each terminal. Bus services are also available, and the airport is connected to the Cairo Metro system via a shuttle bus service.

To find the best flights and deals, you can use our online services or book directly on call. It is recommended to book your flights well in advance to ensure availability and the best prices.