Tourist areas of Cairo see many visitors, but check the current US State Department advisory and use normal city precautions.
Overview
Cairo is a huge tourist destination. The US State Department rates Egypt at Level 3, Reconsider Travel, with higher levels in parts of Sinai. Check for the latest.
Tourist areas
Giza Pyramids, the Egyptian Museum and Islamic Cairo are heavily visited.
Risks
- Scams and petty theft.
- Chaotic traffic.
- Street harassment.
Tips
- Use official taxis or Uber.
- Dress modestly.
- Drink bottled water.
- Use licensed guides.
Neighborhood and logistics view
Cairo is a city of about 10 million people proper, over 20 million in the greater area. Areas popular with visitors include Zamalek, Garden City, Downtown, Islamic Cairo, Coptic Cairo and Giza. Metro rides cost a few Egyptian pounds, and the Cairo Metro has women-only cars at the front of trains.
- Official taxis are white, and apps like Uber and inDrive are widely used.
- The pyramids at Giza can be reached in about 45 to 60 minutes from downtown depending on traffic.
- Scams are most common near tourist sites, such as fake “closed” site claims, unrequested guides and camel ride price changes.
Health and etiquette
Drink bottled water, wash hands, and eat freshly cooked food to avoid traveler’s diarrhea. Carry small bills for tips (baksheesh). Dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered. During Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking publicly in daytime near locals out of respect. The air quality in Cairo is often poor, so travelers with asthma should bring their inhaler.
Neighborhoods and logistics
Cairo’s tourist areas include Giza, Zamalek, Maadi and downtown. Crowds and street hassle are the main issues. Ride hailing apps are widely used.
Health and etiquette
Drink bottled water, wash hands and choose busy restaurants. Dress modestly, particularly at religious sites. Carry copies of documents. Check the Grand Egyptian Museum opening status.
Moving around the city
Cairo’s metro has three lines and is cheap, with women-only cars. Uber and Careem operate. Traffic is heavy and peaks at rush hours. Giza pyramids are 30 minutes from downtown. Visit in October to April for cooler weather, as summer reaches 35 C.
Risks and manners
Expect persistent vendors, and agree on taxi fares beforehand. Take care with street food. Dress modestly. Beware of scams such as fake tour operators. The Grand Egyptian Museum opened in stages from 2024. The emergency number for tourist police is 126, ambulance is 123.
Based on data from the US Department of State and the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism
