Quick Guide

From November to March, temperatures in this desert metropolis tend to be pleasant during the day, with slightly chilly nights. From April onward, the thermometer starts climbing and stays hot well into October.

Visas

U.S. citizens will need a passport valid for at least six months as well as a visa to enter Egypt. A renewable, single-entry 30-day visa can be obtained at the airport for US$25 and a multiple-entry visa is available for US$60.

Money

The currency is the Egyptian pound, although some small tour operators may prefer U.S. dollars, so it pays to keep a few in your wallet. Banks and major hotels will all exchange currency and ATMs are widely available within the city.

Travel Health

Be sure to check with the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities for the latest health and safety information, including travel protocols and requirements like negative COVID-19 tests, quarantines, mask mandates, and more in connection with COVID-19. Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away.

Getting Here

Fly into Cairo International Airport.

Getting Around

Avoid Cairo’s notorious traffic jams by taking advantage of the efficient metro system. If you’re going beyond the subway’s bounds, taxis are plentiful—just keep an eye on the meter and watch out for scammers.

Local Lingo

Modern Standard Arabic is the official language, although you’re likely to hear a few different dialects spoken around the city. Learning even a few phrases is a great way to foster goodwill with locals. “Es-Salāmu-`Alēku” means “peace be with you” and is the customary greeting, while “Maa Salama,” which means “with peace” is a polite way of saying “goodbye.”

Must-Have Apps

Cairo 360; Daily News Egypt

Insider Tip

If you’re shopping for souvenirs in one of the traditional souks like the Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, haggling is not just expected — it’s half the fun. Just make sure to only engage if you’re serious about purchasing something and ask the seller to make an offer first in order to kick off negotiations.

From November to March, temperatures in this desert metropolis tend to be pleasant during the day, with slightly chilly nights. From April onward, the thermometer starts climbing and stays hot well into October.

Visas

U.S. citizens will need a passport valid for at least six months as well as a visa to enter Egypt. A renewable, single-entry 30-day visa can be obtained at the airport for US$25 and a multiple-entry visa is available for US$60.

Money

The currency is the Egyptian pound, although some small tour operators may prefer U.S. dollars, so it pays to keep a few in your wallet. Banks and major hotels will all exchange currency and ATMs are widely available within the city.

Travel Health

Be sure to check with the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities for the latest health and safety information, including travel protocols and requirements like negative COVID-19 tests, quarantines, mask mandates, and more in connection with COVID-19. Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away.

Getting Here

Fly into Cairo International Airport.

Getting Around

Avoid Cairo’s notorious traffic jams by taking advantage of the efficient metro system. If you’re going beyond the subway’s bounds, taxis are plentiful—just keep an eye on the meter and watch out for scammers.

Local Lingo

Modern Standard Arabic is the official language, although you’re likely to hear a few different dialects spoken around the city. Learning even a few phrases is a great way to foster goodwill with locals. “Es-Salāmu-`Alēku” means “peace be with you” and is the customary greeting, while “Maa Salama,” which means “with peace” is a polite way of saying “goodbye.”

Must-Have Apps

Cairo 360; Daily News Egypt

Insider Tip

If you’re shopping for souvenirs in one of the traditional souks like the Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, haggling is not just expected — it’s half the fun. Just make sure to only engage if you’re serious about purchasing something and ask the seller to make an offer first in order to kick off negotiations.