Preserving the heritage of the Pharaonic era with memories of Islamic culture, Cairo is a sprawling capital of Egypt that is a fascinating city with an incredible past. Resting on the banks of the Nile 1,000 years ago, this infuriatingly beautiful city has a lot to explore within its borders. Be it the impressive minarets that stand all over the city or the 19th century buildings, the largest city in Africa has a lot of things worth discovering around it. But like every other destination, this city also has a different lifestyle and rules for its people. So, before heading to this Egyptian city, be sure to keep this handy guide to learn about Cairo travel advice.
9 must know travel tips for Cairo, Egypt
Here is a list Travel advice to Cairo, Egypt One must comply when traveling to this Egyptian paradise to remain safe in a foreign land.
- Drink pure water
- Stay hydrated
- Don’t forget to tip
- Keep your valuables safe
- Know what you’re wearing
- Taste the local food
- Taxis are cheap
- Carry your own toilet paper
- Visa is required
1. Drink pure water
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The water available in Egypt has a high level of chlorine and does not taste good. So, if you are traveling for the first time to Cairo, make sure you live on bottled water only and also make sure you don’t break the seal. Tap water can be used for brushing teeth, but it should not be consumed by people with sensitive stomachs. A bottle of water costs around 5 pounds (20 INR) which is quite affordable.
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2. Stay hydrated
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Egypt has a very hot climate because it is obviously located in a desert. Along with this harsh weather comes problems like dehydration, sunburn, and heat exhaustion. Hence, travelers who visit this Egyptian capital must drink as much water as possible. Besides, it would be best for travelers to wear loose clothing to beat the heat. This is one of the important Travel advice for Cairo, Egyptone must bear in mind.
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3. Don’t forget a tip
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Tipping for service is common in Egypt and is ubiquitous in everything. While eating in a restaurant, people can round up or pay 10 percent of the bill directly to the waiter, while people helping out with smaller jobs can get 1 pound (4 Indian rupees).
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4. Keeping your valuables safe
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It is very important to keep your valuable documents and other things while traveling to a new destination. While leaving the hotel room, make sure that valuables are not left in the room. Besides, it is also advised to take care of things while traveling by bus, as the driver will not bear any responsibility in case of any mishap. Apart from that, it is also advised to take out travel insurance to stay fully covered in case something goes wrong.
5. Know what to wear
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Another important rule for tourists in Cairo is to know what to wear while in the city. Egypt is a fairly liberal Islamic country, but it has recently become very conservative and forces women to wear headscarves or headscarves. This does not apply to tourists, but it is advised to dress modestly while exploring the streets and especially when visiting monuments. It is better to wear clothes that do not show the shoulders and legs below the knees.
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6. Taste the local food
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If you don’t have a taste for local food in Egypt, you are really missing out on something good. Just like the Egyptian civilizations, there is something about the taste of the country’s authentic cuisine that can only be enjoyed on the streets. Some of the traditional dishes like koshari, pie, and molokhia are some of the best things to try while you are in Cairo.
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7. Taxis are cheap
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Getting around the city is not difficult for travelers who are visiting Cairo for the first time. Taxis are usually cheap and easy to use for getting around the city. And not only that, there is also UBER available which is very easy to get around. Transportation around the city may cost a maximum of 50 to 80 EGP (204 INR). There are three types of taxis available in Cairo – black taxis, yellow taxis and white taxis, among which white taxis are affordable and easy to bargain.
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8. Carry your own toilet paper
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Well, public toilets in Egypt are not very nice and clean. There are generally no toilet papers inside, the toilets are dirty and the tap has run out of water. Therefore, it is advised to carry toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes to clean the toilet seat. There will be a hose attached to the bathroom but it can only be used after the tip is paid.
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9. A visa is required
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Indians are required to hold an entry visa in Egypt which costs around INR 1900 and a traveler can avail it within just 2-3 working days. To obtain a tourist visa, one must have a valid passport, visa application form, bank statement with a minimum balance of INR 50,000 and confirmed air tickets. A visitor on a tourist visa can stay for 90 days, but a traveler is only allowed to stay for 30 days from the date of arrival.
read more: Great Sphinx of Giza: Colossal Statue Nurturing the Egyptian Mystery
Are you ready to explore the capital city after knowing these easy but essential travel tips? If yes, then make sure you keep this travel tips guide with you and plan the much awaited vacation in Egypt with TravelTriangle to enjoy a stress-free and safe trip without running into any unnecessary trouble.
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please note: Any information posted by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended as a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one should not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of his or her choice.
Frequently asked questions about Cairo travel advice
When is the best time to visit Cairo?
The best time to visit Cairo is from March to April and from October to November. Temperatures are comfortable for sightseeing during these months.
What are the best places to visit in Cairo?
Some of the best places to visit in Cairo are: 1. Giza Cemetery 2. Khan El Khalili 3. Egyptian Museum 4. Muhammad Ali Mosque 5. Pyramid of Djoser 6. Cairo Tower 7. The Hanging Church
What are the popular things to do in Cairo?
The most popular things to do in Cairo are: 1. Stroll in Al-Azhar Park 2. Climb the minaret of Bab Zuweila 3. Taste Koshary at Abu Tariq 4. Go shopping at Khan El Khalili
What are the popular dishes in Egyptian cuisine?
Some of the popular food dishes in Egypt are: 1. Foul Medames 2. Koshary 3. Taameya or Falafel 4. Molokhia 5. Okra
What are the popular pyramids in Egypt?
Some of the popular pyramids of Egypt are: 1. Pyramid of Djedfer 2. Pyramid of Khufu 3. Pyramid of Menkaure 4. Pyramid of Khafre 5. Pyramid of Neferefer 6. Pyramid of Djoser 7. Bent Pyramid
Do Indians need a visa to enter Egypt?
Yes, Indian nationals will need a visa to visit Egypt. The visa is issued for 30 days. As of now, there is no visa on arrival for Indians in Egypt.
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