Cairo, Egypt

Cairo, Egypt, has a long and rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area around Cairo has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and the city itself has witnessed the rise and fall of various civilizations. Here is a brief overview of the history of Cairo:

• Ancient Egypt: The region around Cairo was part of the ancient Egyptian civilization, with Memphis serving as the capital of the Old Kingdom. The pyramids of Giza, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu, were built during this period.

• Islamic Conquest: In 641 AD, Egypt was conquered by Arab Muslims led by Amr ibn al–As. The Arab Muslims established Fustat, a new city just south of present-day Cairo, as the capital of Egypt. Fustat became a center of Islamic civilization and trade.

• Fatimid Caliphate: In 969 AD, the Fatimids, a Shia Muslim dynasty, founded Cairo as their new capital. They built the Al-Azhar Mosque, which later became a renowned center of Islamic learning. Cairo flourished under the Fatimids and became a major cultural and economic hub.

• Ayyubid Dynasty: In 1169, Salahuddin al-Ayyubi (Saladin) overthrew the Fatimids and established the Ayyubid dynasty. Saladin is famous for his military campaigns against the Crusaders. Under the Ayyubids, Cairo continued to prosper and witnessed the construction of many religious and architectural landmarks.

• Mamluk Sultanate: In 1250, the Mamluks, slave soldiers, seized power in Cairo and established the Mamluk Sultanate. The Mamluks ruled for over 250 years and transformed Cairo into a magnificent city with grand mosques, palaces, and bazaars. The Sultan Hassan Mosque and the Al-Rifa‘i Mosque are notable Mamluk-era structures.

• Ottoman Rule: In 1517, the Ottoman Empire conquered Egypt and Cairo became a regional capital within the empire. The Ottomans left the administration of Egypt to local governors known as the Pashas. Cairo continued to thrive as a cultural and commercial center.

• Modernization under Muhammad Ali: In the early 19th century, Muhammad Ali Pasha, an Albanian mercenary, rose to power and became the de facto ruler of Egypt. He implemented modernization reforms, including the construction of new infrastructure, schools, and industries. Muhammad Ali‘s reign marked a period of significant development for Cairo.

• British Occupation: In 1882, the British occupied Egypt and established a protectorate. Cairo played a crucial role in the Egyptian nationalist movement against British rule, with the city becoming a hotbed of political activism.

• Independence and Republic: In 1952, a group of nationalist military officers, including Gamal Abdel Nasser, staged a coup, overthrowing the monarchy and establishing a republic. Cairo became the capital of the newly independent Egypt. Nasser and his successors implemented various social and economic reforms, shaping modern Cairo.

Today, Cairo is a bustling metropolis with a vibrant mix of ancient history and modern developments. It remains the cultural, political, and economic heart of Egypt, attracting millions of visitors each year to explore its rich heritage.

Here are 10 of the top attractions in Cairo, Egypt:

1. The Great Pyramids of Giza: These ancient wonders are the only remaining structures of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. They include the Great Pyramid of Khufu, Pyramid of Khafre, and Pyramid of Menkaure. Cost of entry: 200 EGP ($13). Hours of operation: 8 am to 5 pm. Address: Al Haram, Giza Governorate, Egypt. Phone number: +20 2 3377 3222. Website: Giza Plateau – Discover Egypt’s Monuments – Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities (egymonuments.gov.eg)

2. Egyptian Museum: Located in Tahrir Square, this museum houses an extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun. Cost of entry: 200 EGP ($13). Hours of operation: 9 am to 5 pm. Address: Tahrir Square, Cairo, Egypt. Phone number: +20 2 2578 2968. Website: https://egymonuments.gov.eg/en/museums/egyptian-museum

3. Salah El-Din Citadel: This medieval Islamic fortification offers panoramic views of Cairo. It houses several mosques, museums, and the famous Mohamed Ali Mosque. Cost of entry: 100 EGP ($6.50). Hours of operation: 8 am to 5 pm. Address: Al Abageyah, Qesm Al Khalifah, Cairo Governorate, Egypt. Phone number: +20 2 2512 1731. Website: N/A

4. Khan El Khalili Bazaar: This bustling market in Old Cairo is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and traditional Egyptian goods, including spices, jewelry, textiles, and souvenirs. Cost of entry: Free. Hours of operation: 9 am to 10 pm. Address: Al-Azhar Street, Cairo, Egypt. Phone number: N/A. Website: N/A

5. Al-Azhar Mosque: One of the oldest mosques in Egypt, Al-Azhar Mosque is a significant Islamic religious and educational center. Non-Muslim visitors can explore the courtyard and gardens. Cost of entry: Free. Hours of operation: Open daily for prayer, limited access for non-Muslims. Address: El-Darb El-Ahmar, Cairo Governorate, Egypt. Phone number: N/A. Website: N/A

6. Coptic Cairo: This historic neighborhood is home to several ancient churches, including the Hanging Church, St. Sergius and Bacchus Church, and the Coptic Museum. Cost of entry: Varies by attraction. Hours of operation: Varies by attraction. Address: Old Cairo, Cairo Governorate, Egypt. Phone number: N/A. Website: N/A

7. Al-Azhar Park: This beautifully landscaped park offers stunning views of Cairo‘s skyline and features gardens, fountains, and a variety of restaurants. Cost of entry: 10 EGP ($0.65). Hours of operation: 9 am to 10 pm. Address: Salah Salem St., El-Darb El-Ahmar, Cairo Governorate, Egypt. 4 pm. Address: Maydan Salah al-Din, Al-Darb al-Ahmar, Cairo Governorate, Egypt. Phone number: +20 2 2510 5362. Website: N/A

10. Cairo Tower: Standing at 187 meters tall, this iconic tower offers panoramic views of Cairo from its observation deck. Cost of entry: 200 EGP ($13) for the observation deck. Hours of operation: 9 am to 12 am. Address: Gezira, Zamalek, Cairo, Egypt. Phone number: +20 2 2736 0404. Website: N/A

Here are 5 popular day trips from Cairo:

1. Giza Pyramids and Sphinx: Description: Visit the iconic Giza Pyramids, including the Pyramid of Menkaure. Explore the ancient Sphinx and learn about the rich history of ancient Egypt. Time and Distance: Approximately 30 minutes by car from Cairo city center. Cost of Entry: Prices vary depending on the chosen tour or ticket package. Hours of Operation: Open daily from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. Address: Al Haram, Giza Governorate, Egypt. Phone Number: +20 2 33770001. Website: Giza Plateau – Discover Egypt’s Monuments – Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities (egymonuments.gov.eg)

2. Saqqara: Description: Discover the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest stone pyramid in Egypt, located in the Saqqara necropolis. Explore the complex and witness the evolution of pyramid construction. Time and Distance: Around 1 hour by car from Cairo city center. Cost of Entry: Prices vary depending on the chosen tour or ticket package. Hours of Operation: Open daily from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. Address: Saqqara, Giza Governorate, Egypt. Phone Number: +20 2 33770001. Website: Saqqara | Ancient Egypt (ancient-egypt-online.com)

3. Alexandria: Description: Take a day trip to the coastal city of Alexandria, known for its rich Greco-Roman history. Visit the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, the Qaitbay Citadel, and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern library that stands as a tribute to the ancient Library of Alexandria. Time and Distance: Approximately 2.5 hours by car from Cairo city center. Cost of Entry: Prices vary depending on the chosen attractions. Hours of Operation: Varies depending on the attraction. Address: Alexandria, Egypt. Phone Number: Varies depending on the attraction. Website: Varies depending on the attraction.

4. Wadi El Rayan: Description: Explore the Wadi El Rayan Protected Area, a desert oasis with stunning landscapes and two beautiful lakes. Enjoy the tranquility of the area, go hiking, or take a swim in the natural lakes. Time and Distance: Around 2 hours by car from Cairo city center. Cost of Entry: Entry is free, but some activities may have additional fees. Hours of Operation: Open daily, but it is recommended to visit during daylight hours. Address: Wadi El Rayan, Faiyum Governorate, Egypt. Phone Number: N/A. Website: N/A.

5. Fayoum Oasis: Description: Discover the scenic beauty of the Fayoum Oasis, an agricultural region surrounded by desert landscapes. Visit the Qarun Lake, the Valley of the Whales (Wadi Al-Hitan), and the Temple of Qasr Qarun. Time and Distance: Approximately 1.5 hours by car from Cairo city center. Cost of Entry: Prices vary depending on the chosen attractions. Hours of Operation: Varies depending on the attraction. Address: Fayoum Governorate, Egypt. Phone Number: Varies depending on the attraction. Website: Varies depending on the attraction.

In Egypt, there are several types of transportation options available. Here are some of the most common ones:

1. Cairo Metro: – Cost range: 3–7 Egyptian pounds per ticket. – Hours of operation: Usually from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM. – Website: http://www.cairometro.gov.eg/

2. Public Buses: – Cost range: 2–10 Egyptian pounds per ticket, depending on the distance. – Hours of operation: Generally from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM, but some routes operate 24 hours. – Website: N/A, as bus services in Egypt are operated by various companies.

3. Microbuses: – Cost range: 2–10 Egyptian pounds per ticket, depending on the distance. – Hours of operation: Usually from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM. – Website: N/A, as microbus services in Egypt are operated by various companies.

4. Taxis: – Cost range: Starting fare of around 5–10 Egyptian pounds, with additional charges per kilometer. – Hours of operation: Taxis operate 24 hours a day. – Website: N/A, as taxis in Egypt are privately owned.

5. Uber and Careem (ride-hailing services): – Cost range: Varies based on distance and demand. – Hours of operation: Available 24 hours a day. – Website: https://www.uber.com and https://www.careem.com/

6. Trains (Egyptian National Railways): – Cost range: Varies based on distance and class of travel. – Hours of operation: Train schedules vary, but services are available throughout the day. – Website: http://enr.gov.eg/

Please note that the cost ranges provided are approximate and may vary depending on factors such as distance, time of day, and class of service. Additionally, the websites provided are subject to change, so it is advisable to search for the most up-to-date information at the time of your travel.

There is one main international airport near Cairo, Egypt. 

1. Cairo International Airport (CAI) – Distance from city center: Approximately 22 kilometers (14 miles) northeast of downtown Cairo. Website: https://www.cairo-airport.com

– Transportation options:

– Taxi: Taxis are available outside the airport terminals. The cost of a taxi ride to the city center can vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions. It is advisable to negotiate the fare before starting the journey.

– Airport Shuttle Bus: The Cairo Airport Shuttle Bus operates between the airport and various locations in Cairo, including major hotels and tourist areas. The fare is reasonably priced, and the buses are comfortable. For more information and schedules, visit the airport website: https://www.cairo-airport.com/ground–transportation#shuttle-bus

– Car Rental: Several car rental companies have counters at the airport. Renting a car can be a convenient option for exploring Cairo and its surroundings. Prices vary depending on the rental company and the type of vehicle.

– Uber/Careem: Ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are available in Cairo. Using these services can be a convenient and reliable way to travel to and from the airport. Simply download the app and request a ride.

Note: It is always recommended to check the latest information on the airport website or contact the respective transportation providers for the most up-to-date details regarding schedules, fares, and availability.

The currency used in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP).

Denominations in paper form:

– 5 pounds

– 10 pounds

– 20 pounds

– 50 pounds

– 100 pounds

– 200 pounds

– 500 pounds

Denominations in coin form:

– 1 pound

– 50 piastres

– 25 piastres

– 10 piastres

– 5 piastres

– 1 piastre

Egypt has a desert climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Here are some tips on how to pack for a trip to Egypt:

1. Clothing: Lightweight, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing is essential to cope with the heat. Pack light-colored and loose clothes made from natural fabrics like cotton or linen. Women should carry a scarf or shawl to cover their shoulders when visiting religious sites.

2. Footwear: Comfortable and breathable shoes are a must, especially if you plan on exploring the city or visiting outdoor attractions. Sandals or open-toed shoes are suitable for most occasions, but closed-toe shoes may be preferable for desert excursions.

3. Sun Protection: Qatar experiences intense sunlight, so pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun‘s rays.

4. Layers for Air Conditioning: Qatar is known for its air-conditioned interiors, so it‘s a good idea to carry a light sweater or jacket for indoor spaces that may be cooler than the outdoor temperature.

5. Swimwear: If you plan on visiting Qatar‘s beautiful beaches or staying at a hotel with a pool, don‘t forget to pack your swimwear.

6. Respectful Attire: While Qatar is a modern country, it is still important to dress modestly and respect local customs. Avoid clothing that is too revealing or offensive to local sensibilities.

7. Toiletries: It‘s recommended to pack personal toiletries, including insect repellent, as per your preferences and needs.

Remember to check the weather forecast before your trip to ensure you are adequately prepared.