June 1, 2024
Cairo is not a city you simply visit; you experience it with all five senses. It's a sprawling, magnificent metropolis of organized chaos, where the call to prayer echoes over the constant hum of traffic and the scent of shisha and grilled kebabs hangs in the air. It can be overwhelming, intense, and utterly intoxicating.
For the first-time visitor, a little preparation goes a long way. The difference between a frustrating trip and a magical one often comes down to knowing a few local secrets.
Consider this your ultimate survival guide. These are the essential, no-nonsense Cairo travel tips you need to navigate the city like a pro, sidestep the common pitfalls, and fall in love with its chaotic charm.
Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival at Cairo International Airport (CAI) for $25 USD (bring exact cash). However, to save time and potential hassle, consider applying for an e-Visa online a week before your trip.
From June to August, Cairo is scorching hot. The ideal time to visit for pleasant weather is from October to April. For a deeper dive, check out our guide on the best time to visit Egypt.
Where you stay matters.
Footwear: Comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes are a must. The streets are dusty and uneven.
This is the single most important tip for navigating Cairo. Hailing a taxi can lead to haggling, meter "issues," and scenic detours. Uber and Careem (a local equivalent) are cheap, reliable, and eliminate all the stress. You'll know the price upfront, and the journey is tracked.
Cairo traffic is an art form you do not want to learn on vacation. It's chaotic and aggressive. Leave the driving to the professionals.
The Cairo Metro is efficient, incredibly cheap, and avoids traffic. It's a great way to travel between Downtown and Coptic Cairo. Be aware that it gets extremely crowded, and there are women-only carriages (highly recommended for female travelers).
Don't rely on spotty hotel Wi-Fi. Upon arrival at the airport, head to the Orange, Vodafone, or Etisalat kiosks. For around $10-15 USD, you can get a SIM card with more than enough data for your trip.
While hotels and high-end restaurants accept cards, Cairo is largely a cash-based society. You'll need Egyptian Pounds (EGP) for tips, market shopping, street food, and small purchases. Inform your bank of your travel dates.
ATMs are widely available. To minimize transaction fees, withdraw larger amounts at once rather than making frequent small withdrawals.
The pyramids open at 8 a.m. Arrive right at opening to beat the tour buses and the heat. Alternatively, arrive in the late afternoon for golden hour light and fewer crowds.
You will be approached by touts offering camel rides, souvenirs, and "help." A polite but firm "La, shukran" (No, thank you) while continuing to walk is the best strategy. Do not stop or engage.
A good Egyptologist guide will transform your visit from just seeing old stones to understanding a fascinating history. They are also invaluable for fending off touts and navigating complex sites like the Egyptian Museum.
The new GEM (partially open and set to fully open soon) is a world-class institution. Plan to spend at least half a day here. Don't try to see everything; focus on highlights like Tutankhamun's treasures.
This sprawling bazaar is a sensory overload. Don't go with a fixed plan. Wander the labyrinthine alleys, stop for mint tea, and soak in the atmosphere.
In the Khan, bargaining is expected and part of the fun. The first price you're quoted is an opening offer. A good rule of thumb is to counter with 50% of the asking price and meet somewhere in the middle. Always be polite, smile, and be willing to walk away.
Many tourists focus only on ancient Egypt.
Only drink sealed, bottled water. Use it for brushing your teeth, too.
Don't be afraid of street food; it's delicious! The key is to eat from busy stalls with high turnover where you can see the food being cooked fresh.
Koshary is Egypt's national dish—a carb-heavy, delicious bowl of rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas topped with a spicy tomato sauce and fried onions. It's a must-try.
Many travelers experience some level of stomach upset. Be proactive: pack Imodium and rehydration salts. Avoid uncooked salads and be wary of ice in your drinks at smaller establishments.
Tipping is a way of life in Egypt. Small tips are expected for almost any service. Carry small bills (5, 10, 20 EGP) at all times.
| Who to Tip | Suggested Amount |
|---|---|
| Restaurant Waiter | 10-15% of the bill |
| Bathroom Attendant | 5 EGP |
| Hotel Bellhop/Porter | 10-20 EGP |
| Tour Guide | 100-150 EGP per person for a full day |
| Driver (for a tour) | 50-70 EGP per person for a full day |
| Felucca Captain | 20-30 EGP |
Violent crime against tourists is rare. The biggest issue is petty crime and scams. For a detailed breakdown, read our guide on whether Egypt is safe to visit.
It's polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of people. Never photograph police, military personnel, or government buildings. Some sites have fees for cameras.
Crossing the street in Cairo is an extreme sport. There are few traffic lights or crosswalks. The local technique is to wait for a small gap and walk confidently at a steady pace, letting the traffic flow around you. Or, simply wait and cross with a group of locals.
Cairo is challenging but rewarding for solo women. In addition to dressing modestly, consider wearing a "wedding ring," avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas late at night, and sit in the back of Ubers. Women-only metro cars are a great option.
If your trip coincides with Ramadan, be respectful of those who are fasting. Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. Many restaurants will be closed during the day but come alive at night.
The Egyptian workweek is Sunday to Thursday. This means museums and sites will be much busier with local families on Fridays and Saturdays.
Locals will appreciate the effort.
The best tip of all. Cairo is a force of nature. Don't fight it. Lean into the energy, smile at the chaos, and you will discover a city with a massive heart and an incredible story to tell.