Cairo,Egypt

Practical Information

Transportation

Nearest Airport: Cairo International Airport (CAI)
Accessible by:
- International Flights: Cairo Airport serves as a major hub, connecting Egypt to Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and beyond.
- Domestic Flights: Frequent flights to and from major Egyptian cities like Luxor, Aswan, and Sharm El Sheikh.
- Rail Services: Egypt’s national railway connects Cairo to Alexandria, Luxor, and Aswan via sleeper and express trains.
- Bus Services: Long-distance buses operate from cities like Alexandria, Hurghada, and Sharm El Sheikh to Cairo.
- Metro & Local Transport: Cairo Metro is the fastest way to get around the city, with taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem also widely available.

Top Locations to Visit

1. Giza Pyramids & Sphinx
- One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
- Camel or horse rides available for panoramic desert views.
2. Egyptian Museum
- Houses the treasures of Tutankhamun, royal mummies, and ancient artifacts.
- Soon to be replaced by the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM).
3. Islamic Cairo & Khan El Khalili Bazaar
- Historic mosques like Al-Azhar and Sultan Hassan.
- Traditional markets offering handmade crafts, spices, and antiques.
4. Coptic Cairo
- The Hanging Church, Coptic Museum, and Ben Ezra Synagogue.
- Walk through the oldest Christian sites in Egypt.
5. The Citadel of Saladin & Mosque of Muhammad Ali
- Offers stunning views of Cairo’s skyline.
- Explore Islamic military history and Ottoman-style architecture.
6. Al-Muizz Street
- One of the oldest streets in the Islamic world, lined with medieval-era buildings and vibrant markets.
7. Zamalek & Cairo Tower
- The upscale district of Cairo with art galleries, restaurants, and the iconic 187-meter Cairo Tower for city views.
8. The Nile Corniche & Felucca Rides
- Enjoy a sunset boat ride along the Nile on a traditional felucca.
9. Saqqara & Dahshur
- Visit the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the first pyramid ever built.
- Explore the Bent Pyramid and Red Pyramid, lesser-known yet fascinating sites.

Daytime Attractions & Food

Popular Cafés & Food Markets
- Abou Tarek – Famous for koshary, a traditional Egyptian dish.
- El Fishawy Café – A historic café in Khan El Khalili serving Arabic coffee and shisha.
- Felfela – A must-visit for Egyptian street food.
Food Prices
- Breakfast: EGP 50 – 150 (£ 1.60 – £4)
- Lunch: EGP 150 – 300 (£ 4 – £8)
- Dinner: EGP 300 – 600 (£ 8 – £16)
Popular Dishes
- Koshary: A mix of pasta, lentils, rice, and tomato sauce.
- Molokhia: A green soup with garlic and chicken or rabbit.
- Feteer Meshaltet: A layered pastry often served with honey or cheese.
- Grilled Kofta & Kebab: Popular Egyptian barbecue dishes.

Night Time Attractions

Nile Dinner Cruises
- Offers live entertainment, belly dancing, and traditional Tannoura shows.
Cairo Opera House
- A cultural hub hosting concerts, ballet, and theatrical performances.
Al-Azhar Park
- Stunning gardens with a view of Old Cairo and fine dining options.
Zamalek Rooftop Bars & Cafés
- Enjoy cocktails and live music with a view of the Nile.
Night Food Prices
- Fine Dining Restaurants: EGP 600 – 1,500 (£16-£40)
- Cocktails: EGP 200 – 500 (£5.50 – £13.5)

Things to Be Aware Of

Traffic: Cairo’s streets are congested; plan ahead for travel time.
Weather: Summers (June – September) are extremely hot; visit between October – April for the best experience.
Tipping: Common practice in Egypt; 10-15% is standard.
Haggling: Expected in local markets—don’t accept the first price!
Places to Avoid
- Isolated Areas at Night: Stick to well-lit and populated locations.
- Unlicensed Tours: Always book through reputable operators.

Additional Information

Currency is EGP
- 1£ estimate 68 EGP
- The best currency to have in Cairo is the Egyptian pound (EGP). Using the local currency will help you avoid unfair exchange rates and extra charges that can come with using foreign currencies.
- It’s a good idea to have some cash in Egyptian pounds for small purchases and tips, but you can also use credit or debit cards at most places, especially in tourist areas. If you prefer, you can use a multi-currency travel card like Revolut or Wise to avoid high exchange fees

Scams

1. Overpriced Taxi Rides & Fake Meters
Scam: Some taxi drivers may refuse to use the meter, overcharge foreigners, or have a rigged meter that increases too quickly.
How to Avoid:
Use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem for fair pricing.
If using a regular taxi, agree on the price before the ride starts.
Know the approximate cost of your route beforehand.

2. “Helpful” Locals Leading You to Shops
Scam: A friendly local might offer to show you a “secret” or “cheaper” souvenir shop but leads you to a store where they get a commission, and prices are inflated.
How to Avoid:
Politely decline offers of unsolicited help.
Buy from well-known markets like Khan El Khalili, but always negotiate prices.
Compare prices at different stores before purchasing.

3. “Free” Gifts & Photo Scams
Scam: Vendors or camel handlers at tourist sites may offer a free souvenir, photo, or camel ride, only to demand payment afterward.
How to Avoid:
Do not accept anything unless you’re willing to pay for it.
If someone insists on taking your photo, make sure they aren’t expecting money in return.
Always negotiate camel ride prices upfront and specify if it includes the return trip.

4. Fake or Overpriced Entry Tickets
Scam: People outside historical sites may try to sell fake or unofficially overpriced tickets.
How to Avoid:
Only buy tickets from the official booth at the entrance of sites like the Pyramids, Egyptian Museum, and Citadel.
Check the official ticket price before purchasing.

5. Currency Exchange Tricks
Scam: Some shops or exchange offices may shortchange tourists by giving incorrect currency or using sleight-of-hand tricks.
How to Avoid:
Count your money carefully before leaving the counter.
Use reputable exchange offices or withdraw directly from ATMs.
Learn the exchange rate before making transactions.

6. Overpriced Restaurant Menus for Tourists
Scam: Some restaurants have two menus—one with local prices and another with inflated “tourist prices.”
How to Avoid:
Check Google Maps or TripAdvisor for menu photos before dining.
Ask for a menu with prices before ordering.
Confirm the total bill before paying.

7. Fake Tour Guides at Attractions
Scam: People may approach you at tourist sites claiming to be “official tour guides” but offer misleading or incorrect information, demanding a high tip afterward.
How to Avoid:
Hire guides only from reputable tour agencies or through your hotel.
If approached randomly, politely decline.

8. Papyrus or Perfume Store Scams
Scam: Some shops claim to sell authentic papyrus or Egyptian perfumes, but they are often fake or low quality.
How to Avoid:
Buy from government-certified stores like the Egyptian Papyrus Institute.
Compare quality and prices before purchasing.

9. “The Site is Closed” Scam
Scam: A scammer may tell you that a tourist attraction is “closed today” and offer to take you elsewhere, usually to an overpriced shop or another tourist trap.
How to Avoid:
Always verify attraction hours online or with your hotel.
Politely decline offers for alternative sites.

Rare places to see and visit

City of the Dead (El Arafa)
- Ancient necropolis where people live among tombs
- Historic Islamic architecture
- Unique cultural experience
- Local guided tours recommended
- Home to rare medieval monuments
Nilometer at Rhoda
- Ancient water measuring device
- 9th-century structure
- Intricate Islamic architecture
- Hidden historical gem
- Unique photo opportunities
Manial Palace
- Former royal residence
- Persian, Ottoman, and Moorish design
- Stunning private gardens
- Less crowded than other palaces
- Rich collection of hunting trophies
Hanging Church (El Muallaqa)
- Built over Babylon Fortress gates
- 3rd-century Coptic church
- Unique suspended architecture
- Ancient religious icons
- Hidden in Old Coptic Cairo
Ibn Tulun Mosque
- Oldest mosque in Cairo
- Unique spiral minaret
- Stunning architectural details
- Peaceful courtyard
- Panoramic city views from minaret
Al-Hakim Mosque
- Fatimid era architecture
- Recently restored
- Less touristy than Al-Azhar
- Beautiful minarets
- Historical significance
Palace of Baron Empain
- Hindu-inspired architecture
- Unique to Cairo
- Recently opened to public
- Haunting legends
- Art nouveau style
Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan
- Massive Mamluk architecture
- Four schools of Sunni Islam
- Intricate stonework
- Peaceful atmosphere
- Archaeological significance

Pets friendly

Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza:
- Offers luxurious pet-friendly rooms and services.
The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo:
- Provides elegant accommodations with pet-friendly amenities.
Mena House Hotel, Kempinski: A Luxury Collection Hotel, Cairo:
- A historic hotel with pet-friendly options.

Adults

Kempinski Nile Hotel Garden City Cairo
- Description: A luxurious hotel offering stunning views of the Nile and elegant interiors.
- Why Adult-Only: Focuses on providing a sophisticated and tranquil experience for adults.
- Cost: €300 per night (£249)
Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza
- Description: A 5-star hotel offering luxurious amenities and a serene ambiance.
- Why Adult-Only: Designed for a quiet and exclusive stay for adults.
- Cost: €350 per night (£290)
The Gabriel Hotel
- Description: A boutique hotel with a focus on luxury and comfort.
- Why Adult-Only: Tailored for a sophisticated and intimate experience for adults.
- Cost: €250 per night (£207)

Fitness

Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino
- Gym Facilities: The hotel features a well-equipped fitness center with modern equipment, including cardio machines and weights.
- Other Amenities: Casino, outdoor pool, and multiple dining options.
- Location: 5 Tahrir Square, Downtown Cairo.
- Price: €180 per night (approx. £155 per night).
Golden Tulip Hotel Flamenco Cairo
- Gym Facilities: The hotel boasts a fitness center with a range of equipment to help you stay in shape.
- Other Amenities: Rooftop pool, spa, and various dining options.
- Location: 1 Tahrir Square, Downtown Cairo.
- Price: €200 per night (approx. £175 per night).
Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezirah
- Gym Facilities: The hotel offers a fitness center with modern equipment, including treadmills, weights, and more.
- Other Amenities: Rooftop pool, spa, and various dining options.
- Location: Zamalek, Cairo.
- Price: €220 per night (approx. £190 per night).

Weather

For a holiday in Cairo, the best weather is typically from March to April and October to November]. During these months, the temperatures are comfortably warm, ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F), making it ideal for sightseeing and exploring the city.

If you prefer cooler weather, December to February is also a good time to visit, with average daytime temperatures around 16-20°C (60-68°F)]. However, it can be a bit chilly at night].

On the other hand, if you don’t mind the heat and enjoy warm weather, May to September can be quite hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F)]. This period is less crowded, though, and can be a good time for activities like diving in the Red Sea].

Exclusive Accommodations

The St. Regis Cairo
- £400 – £3,500
- Ultra-luxury suites with Nile views
- Butler service and private spa access
- Michelin-star dining experiences
Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza
- £500 – £4,000
- Opulent suites overlooking the Nile
- Exclusive rooftop pool and spa
- Personalized concierge and private yacht access
The Ritz-Carlton, Cairo
- £350 – £2,500
- Elegant Nile-facing suites
- VIP access to the Egyptian Museum
- Fine-dining and luxury spa services
Marriott Mena House, Cairo
- £600 – £5,000
- Historic palace hotel with direct Pyramid views
- Private terraces and in-room dining with Pyramid backdrops
- Personalized cultural experiences
Kempinski Nile Hotel Cairo
- £300 – £2,000
- Boutique luxury hotel with Nile-side penthouses
- Personal butler and exclusive cigar lounge
- Private dining on the rooftop terrace
Royal Palace Private Stay (Exclusive Rental)
- £5,000 – £15,000+
- Fully staffed private villa or historic palace
- Personal chef, chauffeur, and security services
- Customizable VIP experiences, including private events and exclusive tours

Exclusive Private Tours

Exclusive Pyramid Tour with After-Hours Access
£1,600 – £4,000
- Enjoy a private sunrise or sunset tour of the Pyramids with VIP access.
Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Giza
£240 – £960 per person
- Witness the Pyramids from the sky at sunrise.
Private Nile Yacht Cruise
£4,000 – £16,000 per day
- VIP catering, live music, and sunset views along the Nile.
Bespoke Egyptian Museum Experience
£1,200 – £3,600 per person
- Exclusive guided tour with an Egyptologist, including behind-the-scenes access.
Helicopter Tour Over Cairo & The Pyramids
£2,800 – £5,600 per hour
- A breathtaking aerial view of Cairo’s ancient wonders.
Private Dinner at the Sphinx
£8,000 – £40,000

Gourmet Experiences

Private Dinner at the Pyramids (9 Pyramids Lounge Experience)
- Price: £250 – £1,000 per person (EGP 15,000 – 60,000)
- Includes:
  - Exclusive candlelit dinner with a direct view of the Pyramids.
  - Multi-course Egyptian and Mediterranean fusion menu.
  - Private butler service and live oud music.
  - Optional horse-drawn carriage ride before dinner.
  - Location: 9 Pyramids Lounge, Giza Plateau
Fine Dining on the Nile (M/S Saraya Private Yacht Experience)
- Price: £500 – £3,500 per couple (EGP 30,000 – 200,000)
- Includes:
  - A luxury private cruise along the Nile with sunset views.
  - Five-star dining prepared by a Michelin-starred Egyptian chef.
  - Exclusive seafood, wagyu beef, and gourmet mezze options.
  - Live entertainment (traditional tanoura dance or violin performance).
  - Location: Zamalek, Nile Corniche
Historical Royal Banquet at Abdeen Palace
- Price: £2,500 – £10,000 per group (EGP 150,000 – 600,000)
- Includes:
  - A private, royal-themed dinner inside the historic Abdeen Palace.
  - Authentic Ottoman, French, and Egyptian royal cuisine.
  - Gold-plated dining setup in an exclusive 19th-century ballroom.
  - Private guided tour of the palace and access to restricted areas.
  - Location: Abdeen Palace, Downtown Cairo

Wellness Retreats

1. The Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh Spa Retreat (Red Sea Escape)
- Price: £3,000 – £8,000 per person (EGP 180,000 – 480,000)
- Includes:
  - Luxurious ocean-view suites with private pools.
  - Exclusive Red Sea yoga & meditation sessions.
  - Holistic pharaonic-inspired spa treatments using essential oils & herbs.
  - Private snorkeling & sunset boat excursions in the Red Sea.
  - Location: Sahl Hasheesh, Red Sea (1-hour flight from Cairo)
Mena House Royal Spa Retreat (Wellness by the Pyramids)
- Price: £1,500 – £5,000 per person (EGP 90,000 – 300,000)
- Includes:
  - Stay at the historic Mena House hotel, once a royal palace.
  - Private spa treatments inspired by ancient Egyptian beauty rituals.
  - Sunrise meditation & sound healing with a view of the pyramids.
  - Gourmet wellness cuisine curated by top nutritionists.
  - Location: Mena House Hotel, Giza Plateau
Siwa Oasis Desert Detox Retreat
- Price: £2,000 – £7,000 per person (EGP 120,000 – 420,000)
- Includes:
  - Stay in a luxury eco-lodge built from salt and mud.
  - Hot sand baths & saltwater therapy in Siwa’s natural springs.
  - Private guided meditation at The Temple of Amun.
  - Organic farm-to-table meals using local Siwan ingredients.
  - Location: Siwa Oasis (8-hour drive or private charter from Cairo)

Exclusive Cultural Experiences

Private Sunset Tour & Dinner at Saqqara Necropolis
- Price: £1,800 – £6,000 per group (EGP 110,000 – 360,000)
- Includes:
  - VIP access to the Step Pyramid & ancient tombs (after hours).
  - Live storytelling with an Egyptologist under the desert sky.
  - Private Bedouin-style dinner with traditional music and tea.
  - Optional camel or horseback ride at sunset.
  - Location: Saqqara, Giza
Exclusive Pharaonic Jewelry & Perfume Making Workshop
- Price: £1,200 – £4,500 per person (EGP 72,000 – 270,000)
  - Includes:
  - One-on-one workshop with a master Egyptian jeweler.
  - Create your own gold cartouche with hieroglyphic engraving.
  - Visit to a private perfumery that uses ancient Egyptian distillation techniques.
  - Take home a custom-made fragrance blend used by ancient royalty.
  - Location: Khan El Khalili, Cairo
Royal Egyptian Dinner & Live Performance at Manial Palace
- Price: £2,500 – £8,000 per group (EGP 150,000 – 480,000)
- Includes:
  - Private after-hours access to Manial Palace, home to Prince Mohammed Ali.
  - A luxurious dining experience inspired by 19th-century royal banquets.
  - Live performance of classical Egyptian music & Whirling Dervish dance.
  - Private tour of the palace’s hidden rooms and royal gardens.
  - Location: Manial Palace, Cairo

Recommended Luxury Travel Agencies:

Abercrombie & Kent Egypt – Tailored high-end travel experiences.
Travco Travel Egypt – Luxury Nile cruises and exclusive experiences.
Memphis Tours – Private custom-made itineraries.
Estimated Total Luxury Experience Budget
- High-End Luxury (5-Star Hotel, Private Tours, Fine Dining, Some Wellness):
  £15,000 – £40,000 per person
- Ultra-Luxury (Private Villas, Helicopter Transfers, Exclusive Cultural Experiences, Yacht Dining, VIP Services):
  £40,000 – £150,000+ per person
- For a truly extravagant, once-in-a-lifetime experience, including exclusive private palace dinners, personal archaeologists, helicopter tours, and fully customized itineraries, expect a budget of £100,000 – £250,000+ per person

Message: If you been in this location please share with our community on our Facebook page so we all can benefit from your experience.Thank you