Cairo Traveler Essentials
- Safety rating
- 5.8/10
- Best time to visit
- October–April. Summer is brutally hot (40°C+). Eid holidays can be busy.
- Population
- 21.3M
Overview
Cairo is one of the world's great cities — the Pyramids on its doorstep, the Egyptian Museum, chaotic bazaars, the Nile, and a 24-hour energy unlike anywhere else.
Getting around
Metro is cheap and efficient for cross-city travel. Uber is reliable for tourists. Taxis should negotiate price first.
Local etiquette
Dress modestly, particularly women, covering shoulders, arms, and knees; remove shoes and women should cover their hair when entering mosques. Use your right hand for eating and greetings, and accept offered tea as a sign of hospitality. Ask before photographing people, bargain politely in markets, and avoid public displays of affection.
Safety
Tourist areas are generally safe with heavy security. Aggressive vendors and scams are common near major sites. Women may experience harassment.