The city of Cairo, Egypt, also referred to as the Jewel of the Orient, is a magnificent destination full of mystery and wonder. It is here that Egyptian civilizations from the past and current day blend together to create some of the most dynamic cultures in the world.

When to Visit Cairo

First of all, you may have heard that Egypt only has two seasons – summer and winter. This rumor isn’t true at all. Egypt has four distinct seasons, all of which are notably different. The worst time to visit Egypt is during the summer months of June, July, and August. Temperatures during this time can reach up to 45 degrees Celsius (that’s 113 Fahrenheit) with the extra heat from 80% humidity layered on top. If, for some reason, the heat isn’t a problem you will find that hotel rates are incredibly discounted during those months as well.

The best time to visit Egypt is during the winter and spring months, or between September and March. Between September and November temperatures average between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius (59 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit) and from November through February temperatures average between 7 and 15 degrees Celsius (44 and 59 degrees Fahrenheit).

The months of March and April feature comfortable temperatures but the high winds tend to blow sand around. There are a handful of days that are so bad you can’t venture outside at all.

Transportation throughout Cairo

There are several public transportation systems throughout Cairo, each safe and easy to use. The subway system is the safest and most efficient, running on a regular schedule from 5:30am until midnight in the winter and until 1am in the summer. Trains run every six minutes and can take you almost anywhere in the city.

The buses and trams have been established for quite a long time but aren’t always reliable. They tend to be crowded and are known for not being reliable all of the time. If you’re not in a rush and don’t mind crowds than these are certainly safe systems to use. Otherwise, stick to the subway.

Tipping Etiquette in Cairo

Tipping isn’t customary throughout most of Cairo but you are free to tip anyone you wish if you feel as though you’ve received good service. Being polite and smiling at those helping you will prove more than enough. The only place where you are expected to tip, believe it or not, is in a public WC (water closet, aka bathroom). It’s standard to tip 50 piastres, or ½ of an Egyptian pound (that’s $.09 USD). In return you’ll get a cleaner WC and maybe even some toilet paper (though we suggest you carry your own).

Cruisers should check the policies on their boats before tipping. Some ships ask you to leave one large tip at the end of your cruise so that it can be evenly distributed to the rest of the crew.

Communicating in Cairo

It will prove helpful to learn a few local Egyptian phrases before leaving on your trip to Cairo. Doing so, while not absolutely necessary, will prove you care enough to learn a bit about local culture and will endear you to your hosts.  Some of the most important are as follows:

• Ahlan wa sahlan (Hello)
• Salam (Goodbye)
• Salam alekum (Peace be with you)
• Shukran (Thank you)
• Bititkalimy Elgizee? (Do you speak English?)
• Ilha’ouni or Saadini (Help me)
• Bass (Enough or stop)

Eating in Cairo

Cairo is used to seeing tourists from around the world so you’ll find plenty of international cuisine throughout the city. You are, of course, encourage to try at least a few Egyptian dishes. The best way to do so is to have lunch or dinner at a floating restaurant along the Nile River or to visit a local Egyptian Buffet. If none of these options suit your taste buds you’ll find dozens of traditional fast food restaurants throughout the city as well.

What to do in Cairo

There are dozens of local and historic sites throughout Cairo, many of which are in close proximity to most of the Cairo hotels. Your problem will be deciding where to get started. While it is highly recommended that you travel with a tour group, you can certainly explore Cairo on your own as well.

The pyramids are, of course, one of the most popular attractions. You’ll want to include the Gizeh Plateau, Keops Pyramid, Kefre, Mikerinos Pyramid, and Pyramid of Unas on your travel itinerary if you have the time.

Shopping in Cairo is a special experience of its own. Make sure you visit some of the many bazaars where you’ll find just about anything you can imagine. If you’re hungry, you’ll find food. If you want to buy a camel you can do that, too. You’ll also find dozens of vendor stalls selling perfumes, glass bottles, metalwork, jewelry, and a myriad of other traditional wares.

Cairo is a city full of fun and excitement. Visit during the cooler winter months and you’re guaranteed a comfortable and memorable adventure!