Cairo, home to the iconic Great Pyramid of Giza, is a city that many travelers dream of visiting. The pyramids, one of the last remaining Wonders of the Ancient World, are a must-see, and exploring them was one of the most memorable experiences of my travels. I would happily return to Cairo just to visit the pyramids again.
However, beyond this remarkable site, I found Cairo to be a challenging city in many ways. While opinions on the city may vary, my goal is to share my honest experience and offer insights into what to expect during a visit.
During my research before the trip, most articles focused on the magic and uniqueness of visiting the pyramids, which I fully agree with. However, few prepared me for the realities of navigating Cairo itself. I spent five days in the city, from January 24th to January 28th, 2023, and in hindsight, three days would have been enough: one for the pyramids and two for exploring the city’s highlights. In this guide, I’ll break down seven key aspects of my experience to help you prepare for your time in Cairo.
- Understanding Cultural Etiquette
- How Locals Interact with Tourists
- Safety for Female Travelers
- Pollution: Noise, Visuals, and Air Quality
- Top Attractions Besides the Pyramids
- Practical Travel Tips
- Final Thoughts: Is Cairo Worth Visiting?
1
Understanding Cultural Etiquette
Understanding local customs and cultural norms is essential when visiting Cairo. Here are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a more enjoyable experience :
- When interacting with locals, a warm smile and a few Arabic greetings can go a long way in fostering positive exchanges.
- Modesty in dress is important, particularly for women, who should cover their shoulders and knees in public.
- Egypt is generally welcoming to tourists, but respecting religious customs, especially around mosques and during prayer times, is crucial.
- Public displays of affection are frowned upon.
- It’s considered impolite to refuse offers of hospitality, such as tea in local shops.
2
How Locals Interact with Tourists
During my visit to Cairo at 19, I traveled with my boyfriend and a male friend. Like in many countries, I encountered some wonderful Egyptians who were kind and welcoming. However, while walking around the city, I often noticed stares and received a few unpleasant comments. Despite wearing modest clothing—long pants and long-sleeved shirts—I still stood out, as most local women were veiled, which made me feel more noticeable.
In hotels and restaurants, I had no negative experiences. Most discomfort came from being out in public while exploring the city. As a young woman, this was my personal experience, but it may vary for others. If you’re comfortable ignoring unwanted attention, it might not bother you, but it could be more difficult for some tourists. Keeping a low profile and blending in helps minimize attention.
3
Safety for Female Travelers
As a 19-year-old woman traveling with two men, I often felt uneasy walking around Cairo. Even though I was accompanied by my boyfriend and a friend, I found myself staying close to them at all times. While I don’t believe anything specific would have happened, the overall atmosphere made me feel uncomfortable. Cairo was the first city where I genuinely felt on edge. I avoided walking alone at night, and even the two men I was with felt the same sense of discomfort. We always stayed together when outside the hotel.
For more information, check out my article Is Egypt Safe for Solo Travelers?
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4
Pollution: Noise, Visuals, and Air Quality
Noise: The noise levels in Cairo can be overwhelming, with constant honking from cars at all hours of the day and night. While I eventually got used to it, the continuous sound made it difficult to sleep, even at night. Cairo is definitely not a city for peace and quiet, or a chance to enjoy the sounds of nature.
Traffic and Trash: Cairo’s streets are dominated by cars, making crossing the street a challenge, as drivers rarely stop for pedestrians. The best strategy is to move confidently, trusting that cars will slow down or go around you. The relaxed traffic regulations can make the experience a bit stressful. Additionally, litter is common, detracting from the city’s overall appearance.
Air Quality: The air quality in Cairo is one of its biggest challenges. After spending time outdoors, I often felt the need to clean my face due to the dust and pollution. The smog is visible and even noticeable from the Great Pyramid of Giza, highlighting the city’s pollution problem.
5
Top Attractions in Cairo Besides the Pyramids
While the pyramids are the main draw, there are other attractions to make your visit to Cairo worthwhile. Based on my experience, three full days in the city should be enough: one for the pyramids and two for other sites. Here are some of the top things to do:
- The Egyptian Museum: A must-see, showcasing thousands of ancient artifacts, including the treasures of King Tutankhamun.
- Khan El Khalili Market: A vibrant marketplace perfect for shopping and experiencing local culture.
- Al-Azhar Park: A peaceful green space offering a break from the city’s hustle.
- Al-Azhar Mosque: One of Cairo’s most important religious sites, offering insight into the country’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
For more detailed recommendations, check out 5 Of The Best Things To Do In Cairo, Egypt.
6
Practical Travel Tips
Navigating Cairo can be challenging for first-time visitors, but the right preparation can make your trip smoother:
- Public transportation, including the metro, is affordable but often crowded. Apps like Uber are a safer and more convenient option, particularly at night.
- When choosing accommodation, staying in areas like Zamalek or Downtown Cairo offers easy access to the city’s main attractions, with options for both budget and luxury travelers.
- Pack light, but bring essentials such as a scarf for women, comfortable walking shoes, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated in the heat.
- Scams targeting tourists are common around popular sites, so it’s important to stay vigilant. Avoid overly friendly strangers and agree on prices in advance.
- Traveling in a group or hiring a local guide can enhance your sense of safety while exploring the city.
7
Final Thoughts: Is Cairo Worth Visiting?
If it weren’t for the Great Pyramid of Giza, I might hesitate to recommend visiting Cairo. However, as home to the last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World, it’s a destination worth experiencing at least once. While my time in the city came with challenges, I have no regrets about visiting.
When planning your visit, it’s important to set realistic expectations. The pyramids and Cairo’s ancient history are awe-inspiring, but the city itself can be overwhelming, with crowds, noise, pollution, and traffic posing common challenges. By preparing for these aspects, you’ll be better positioned to appreciate Cairo’s rich cultural and historical significance.
Travelers who visit with an open mind will likely find the city’s contrasts both intriguing and rewarding, even if the experience isn’t without its difficulties. Stay safe, enjoy the pyramids, and make the most of your time in Egypt!
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