Cairo

• CountryEgypt
• Main cityCairo
• Official languagesArabic
• CurrencyEgyptian Pound (EGP)
• Time zoneUTC+2, no daylight savingMay vary, check before you go
• PopulationAbout 22 million in the metropolitan areaMay vary, check before you go
• Known forPyramids of Giza, Sphinx, Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo, Nile River

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• Entry rulesMany nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival or an eVisa before travel. Passports must be valid for at least six months.May vary, check before you go
• Check before you goMinistry of Foreign Affairs of EgyptMay vary, check before you govisa2egypt.gov.eg

Rules change: always check official sources before you travel. AI-generated, may contain mistakes.

• Peak seasonOctober to April, when temperatures are cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing.
• Off-peak seasonJune to August, which is extremely hot, often exceeding 35-40 degrees Celsius.
• WeatherDesert climate with hot, dry summers and mild, pleasant winters. Temperatures range from 10 to 35 degrees Celsius depending on the season.May vary, check before you go
• Best time to visitBetween October and April for the most pleasant outdoor experience.

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• Giza NecropolisHome to the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx. Iconic ancient structures located on the outskirts of the city.May vary, check before you go
• Egyptian MuseumHouses a vast collection of ancient Egyptian antiquities, including treasures from Tutankhamun's tomb.May vary, check before you go
• Khan el-KhaliliA historic bazaar and souq in the center of Islamic Cairo, perfect for shopping and experiencing local culture.
• Saladin CitadelA medieval Islamic fortification featuring the Alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali with panoramic city views.May vary, check before you go
• Coptic CairoA historic area containing the Hanging Church and the Ben Ezra Synagogue, reflecting the city's religious diversity.

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• Downtown CairoCentral location, ideal for first-time visitors wanting proximity to museums and transport. Prices about 2000-6000 EGP.May vary, check before you go
• GizaBest for those wanting direct views of the pyramids. Offers many resorts and hotels. Prices about 3000-9000 EGP.May vary, check before you go
• ZamalekAn upscale island district in the Nile, popular for dining, embassies, and a quieter atmosphere. Prices about 4000-12000 EGP.May vary, check before you go

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• KosharyA popular street food mix of rice, pasta, lentils, chickpeas, and tomato sauce topped with fried onions.
• Ful MedamesSlow-cooked fava beans seasoned with oil, garlic, and lemon, typically served for breakfast with bread.
• Ta'ameyaEgyptian-style falafel made from fava beans, often served as a sandwich or breakfast item.
• MolokhiaA traditional green leafy vegetable soup often served with chicken or rabbit and rice.
• Dining tipTipping, known as baksheesh, is expected for most services. Always carry small change for this purpose.

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• From the airportCairo International Airport is served by taxis, ride-hailing apps like Uber, and private hotel shuttles. Fares about 300-600 EGP.May vary, check before you go
• MetroAn efficient and inexpensive way to bypass heavy city traffic. Covers major parts of the city.May vary, check before you go
• Ride-hailingUber and Careem are widely available, reliable, and offer transparent pricing.May vary, check before you go
• TipTraffic in Cairo is very heavy; allow extra time for all journeys, especially during peak hours.

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• Is it required?Not required but highly recommended for all travellers.
• Medical careQuality varies; private hospitals in Cairo offer good care but can be expensive. Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation.
• Risks to coverTheft, travel delays, and emergency medical expenses.
• What to checkEnsure your policy includes coverage for activities like desert excursions or camel riding if planned.

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• CurrencyEgyptian Pound (EGP)
• Exchange rateAbout 1 INR = 0.6 EGPMay vary, check before you go
• Cards or cashCash is essential for markets and small shops. Cards are accepted in hotels and larger restaurants.
• TippingBaksheesh is a standard part of life; small tips are expected for almost every service provided.
• Mobile dataTourist SIM cards are available at the airport from providers like Vodafone, Orange, or Etisalat.May vary, check before you go
• Power plugsTypes C and F, 220V.
• Emergency number122 for police, 123 for ambulance.

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