🇪🇬 Egypt · Travel Guide
Cairo Travel Guide
The Pyramids, the Nile, and 5,000 years of history at every turn.
Cairo is chaotic, ancient and unforgettable — the last Wonder of the Ancient World on its doorstep, treasures of the pharaohs, and a buzzing, sprawling energy along the Nile. Overwhelming and rewarding in equal measure, it’s best approached with patience and street-smarts.
Plan my free Cairo itinerary📅 Best time
October–April brings comfortable temperatures. Summer (June–August) is intensely hot — sightsee early and rest midday.
💷 Daily budget
$35–80 mid-range; great value, though guided tours add up.
🗓️ Ideal length
3 days for the Pyramids, the Egyptian Museum and the city.
💱 Currency
Egyptian Pound (E£)
🗣️ Language
Arabic; English is common in tourism but limited elsewhere.
Is Cairo safe?
General safety
Generally safe for visitors in terms of violent crime, but Cairo is intense: relentless touts and hustling at the major sights, persistent overcharging, and chaotic traffic. Be politely firm, agree prices up front, and keep valuables secure in crowds.
Solo female travellers
One of the more challenging solo-female destinations — street harassment is common. Dress modestly (cover shoulders, knees and ideally arms), project confidence, avoid walking alone after dark, use ride-hailing (Uber), and consider hiring trusted guides for the sites.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Important to know before you go: while not explicitly outlawed by name, same-sex relations are effectively criminalised and prosecuted in Egypt under "debauchery" laws, with real arrest risk. There is no scene or legal recognition. LGBTQ+ travellers should exercise extreme discretion; always check your government’s current travel advice.
Safety guidance is general and can change — always check your government’s latest travel advice before you go.
Top things to do in Cairo
- Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
- The Grand Egyptian Museum
- Khan el-Khalili bazaar
- Islamic Cairo and the Citadel
- A felucca sail on the Nile at sunset
Book experiences in Cairo
Getting around & essentials
Use the Uber app rather than street taxis — it fixes the fare and avoids the constant haggling and overcharging. The metro is cheap and has women-only carriages. Pre-book airport transfers and Pyramids excursions through your hotel to skip the touts.
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Plan my trip — freeCairo FAQs
Is Cairo safe for solo female travellers?
It’s one of the more challenging solo-female destinations — violent crime is uncommon, but street harassment is frequent. Dress modestly, stay confident, avoid walking alone after dark, use the Uber app, and book trusted guides for the sites.
How do I handle the touts and overcharging at the Pyramids?
Be politely firm, agree every price before you commit (camel rides, photos, "guides"), and book your visit through a reputable operator or your hotel. A confident "no, thank you" and not stopping to engage works best.
How many days do you need in Cairo?
Three days covers the Pyramids, the Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo and a Nile felucca at a manageable pace.
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