Cairo

The best time to visit Cairo is in the cooler months, which go from October to April. Summers here can get seriously hot — we’re talking dry heat that sticks around well into the evening — so if you don't feel like sweating through every market stop and museum, it’s better to avoid June to September. Keep in mind that if you’re visiting during Ramadan, many shops and restaurants may open later than usual or close during the day while locals fast. Be sure to plan ahead, as some tourist sites might also have shorter hours.

Egypt offers several visa options depending on the traveller's nationality and purpose of visit. Citizens from visa-exempt countries can enter without a visa under specific conditions, such as nationals of the GCC (The Gulf Cooperation Council comprising six countries in the Arabian Peninsula: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates) in certain cases. Most other travellers must obtain a visa prior to travel or upon arrival. For tourism, many nationalities are eligible for an e-Visa, which can be applied for online through the official Egyptian e-Visa portal. The process involves submitting personal and passport details, travel plans, and payment of the visa fee. The e-Visa is typically valid for 30 days and can be single or multiple entry, depending on the applicant’s choice. Additionally, travellers from certain countries — including the United States, Canada, Australia, EU member states, and more — may obtain a visa on arrival at major international airports in Egypt. This option requires payment in cash and is also valid for 30 days. However, citizens of countries not eligible for either the e-Visa or visa on arrival must apply for a visa in advance at an Egyptian embassy or consulate. For longer stays, a different type of visa must be secured before travel. It is essential to consult Egypt’s official immigration or consular sources to confirm the applicable requirements.

Cairo’s public transport mainly includes metro, buses and minibuses. The metro is the fastest and most reliable way for tourists to get around — it’s affordable, runs regularly, and covers key spots across the city. Buses and minibuses run everywhere, but they can be chaotic and unpredictable. For that reason, many tourists prefer to stick to the metro or taxis. There’s a rechargeable Metro Card you can buy for easy access, with fares that depend on distance. As for safety, the metro is generally fine during the day, but, like in any other big city, it’s best to keep an eye on your belongings.

Taxis are easy to find in Cairo, but they can be hit or miss. Some have meters, others don’t, and even when there is one, the driver might not use it unless you ask. It’s common to agree on a price before the ride starts—just be prepared to haggle a little. That said, most travellers now use ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem. They’re more straightforward, prices are set in advance, and you can avoid the back-and-forth over fares.

Country Code: +20 Area Code: 2