The last of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Pyramids of Giza are one of the world's most recognizable landmarks. Built as tombs for the mighty Pharaohs and guarded by the enigmatic Sphinx, Giza's pyramid complex has awed travelers for thousands of years.

The Pyramids of Giza are a must-see for anyone visiting Egypt. These ancient structures have stood for thousands of years, and they continue to awe visitors with their size and complexity. The largest of the three pyramids, the Great Pyramid, was built by Pharaoh Khufu and is the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World that is still largely intact. /n The other two pyramids, built by Khufu's son Pharaoh Khafre and grandson Pharaoh Menkaure, are also impressive in their own right. The Sphinx, a large statue with the body of a lion and the head of a human, is also part of the Giza complex. A visit to the Pyramids of Giza is a journey back in time, and a chance to marvel at the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the ancient Egyptians.

The Pyramids of Giza are ancient structures that have stood for thousands of years.

The Great Sphinx is one of the world's largest and oldest statues, but basic facts about it, such as who was the model for the face, when it was built, and by whom, are still debated. It's a limestone statue of a reclining sphinx, a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human.

The Great Sphinx of Giza is a marvel of ancient architecture. This colossal limestone statue of a reclining sphinx, a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human, is one of the world's largest and oldest statues. It stands on the Giza Plateau on the west bank of the Nile in Giza, Egypt. /n The Sphinx is commonly believed to have been built by ancient Egyptians of the Old Kingdom during the reign of the Pharaoh Khafre (c. 2558–2532 BC). It is a symbol of Egypt, appearing on its currency, and is a popular tourist attraction. The Sphinx has been a subject of mystery and debate throughout the years, with various theories about its origin, age, and purpose. Despite the many theories, the Sphinx remains an enigma, its true age and purpose shrouded in mystery.

The Great Sphinx is an iconic limestone statue that represents a mythical creature with a lion's body and a human head.

The Solar Boat Museum is a fascinating place that houses the spectacularly restored cedar-wood boat of Khufu (Cheops), which was discovered in 1954 at the south corner of the Great Pyramid. The boat is believed to have been used to carry the body of Khufu in his last journey on earth before being buried in the middle of his pyramid.

The Solar Boat Museum, located on the Giza Plateau, is one of Cairo's most important museums. It houses the Khufu Solar Boat, a vessel that was buried at the foot of the Great Pyramid of Khufu around 2500 BC. The boat, which measures 43.6 meters in length and 5.6 meters in width, was discovered in 1954 in a dismantled state, with 1,224 separate components. The museum's main exhibit is the reconstructed ship, which is displayed in a specially designed, climate-controlled pavilion. The boat is considered one of the most significant discoveries in the field of Egyptology. /n The museum also offers a detailed insight into the boat's discovery, excavation, and conservation. Visitors can learn about the painstaking process of reassembling the boat, which took over a decade to complete. The museum also showcases a range of other artifacts related to the boat and its history, including tools, ropes, and pottery. The Solar Boat Museum offers a unique opportunity to delve into the ancient Egyptian civilization's maritime history and their beliefs about the afterlife.

The Solar Boat Museum is a fascinating showcase of ancient Egyptian boat-building skills.

The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, known commonly as the Egyptian Museum or Museum of Cairo, in Cairo, Egypt, is home to an extensive collection of ancient Egyptian antiquities. It has 120,000 items, with a representative amount on display.

The Egyptian Museum in Cairo is a treasure trove of ancient Egyptian artifacts. With over 120,000 items in its collection, the museum offers a comprehensive look at Egypt's ancient history. /n The museum's highlights include the treasures of Tutankhamun, the Royal Mummy Room, and the extensive collection of papyri and coins. The museum also houses numerous statues, stelae, and sarcophagi, as well as artifacts from the time of the Old, Middle, and New Kingdoms. A visit to the Egyptian Museum is a must for anyone interested in ancient history and archaeology.

The Egyptian Museum houses a vast collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts.

A felucca is a traditional wooden sailing boat used in protected waters of the Red Sea and eastern Mediterranean, in Egypt and Sudan (particularly along the Nile), including Malta and Tunisia, and also in Iraq. A felucca ride is one of the most enjoyable and relaxing ways to see the life along the Nile in Cairo.

A Felucca ride on the Nile is a quintessential Egyptian experience. These traditional wooden sailing boats, known as feluccas, have been used by Egyptians for thousands of years. They were originally used for fishing and transportation, but today they are primarily used for leisurely sails along the Nile. /n A Felucca ride offers a unique perspective of Cairo. As you glide along the Nile, you can enjoy stunning views of the city's skyline, its many bridges, and landmarks such as the Cairo Tower and the Opera House. The ride is a peaceful escape from the bustling city streets, offering a moment of tranquility amidst the chaos. It's also a great way to experience a piece of Egyptian culture and history. Whether you choose to take a ride during the day or at sunset, a Felucca ride on the Nile is a must-do when visiting Cairo.

A Felucca ride on the Nile is a traditional Egyptian sailing boat experience that offers stunning views of the city.

Experience the timeless allure of Cairo, Egypt's sprawling capital. This vibrant city is a treasure trove of ancient wonders, including the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, standing as proud reminders of Egypt's rich history. Explore the Egyptian Museum, home to an extensive collection of pharaonic antiquities. Stroll through the bustling Khan El Khalili Bazaar for unique souvenirs and traditional crafts. Discover the Islamic Cairo district, adorned with ancient mosques and Islamic monuments. Enjoy a serene sunset cruise on the Nile River, the lifeblood of Egypt. Savor local cuisine, from hearty ful medames to sweet baklava. Cairo is not just a city, it's a timeless experience that blends ancient history with modern vibrancy.

Pyramids of Giza

Great Sphinx

Solar Boat Museum

Egyptian Museum

Felucca ride on the Nile

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Explore the Great Sphinx and the Solar Boat Museum nearby. Don't forget to take plenty of photos of these ancient wonders.

Enjoy a traditional Egyptian lunch at a local restaurant. Try popular dishes like koshary, a mix of pasta, rice, lentils, and tomato sauce, or molokhia, a soup made from jute leaves and served with bread.

Head to the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square. Here, you'll find a vast collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun. Spend the afternoon immersing yourself in Egypt's rich history.

Have dinner at a local restaurant in the bustling area of Zamalek. This neighborhood is known for its wide variety of eateries offering both local and international cuisine.

End your day with a relaxing Felucca ride on the Nile River. These traditional wooden sailboats offer stunning views of the city skyline, especially at sunset.

Exploring the Ancient Wonders and Rich History of Cairo

UTC+2

Taxis are a common way to get around in Cairo. They are available 24/7 and can be hailed on the street. They are metered, but it's common to negotiate the fare before the trip starts.

Uber and Careem (a local ridesharing app) are widely used in Cairo. They offer a safe and convenient way to get around the city. You can book a ride using the app on your smartphone.

Cairo's Metro system is the fastest way to travel around the city. It's also the cheapest form of public transportation. The Metro covers most areas of the city and runs from 5 AM to 1 AM.

Buses are a cheap way to get around Cairo, but they can be crowded and confusing for tourists. There are both public and private bus services available.

Hiring a private car with a driver is a comfortable and convenient way to explore Cairo. This can be arranged through a travel agency or hotel.

Microbuses are a popular form of transportation in Cairo. They are smaller than regular buses and usually have fixed routes. They can be hailed on the street.

For a unique way to get around, consider taking a felucca ride on the Nile. These traditional wooden sailboats offer a peaceful and scenic way to travel.

Cycling is not very common in Cairo due to the heavy traffic, but it's possible to rent a bike and explore quieter areas of the city.

Motorcycles can be rented in Cairo, but this mode of transportation is recommended only for experienced riders due to the city's chaotic traffic.

Walking is a good way to explore the central areas of Cairo. However, be aware that traffic can be chaotic and pedestrian crossings are not always respected.

A traditional Egyptian breakfast dish made from fava beans, olive oil, parsley, garlic, and lemon. It's a staple in Cairo and is often served with bread.

Ful Medames

A popular Egyptian dish made from rice, lentils, chickpeas, pasta, and topped with a spicy tomato sauce and caramelized onions. It's a common street food in Cairo.

Koshari

Egyptian version of falafel made from fava beans instead of chickpeas. It's a popular snack or breakfast food in Cairo.

Ta'amiya

A traditional Egyptian soup made from jute leaves, garlic, and coriander. It's often served with bread or over rice in Cairo.

Molokhia

A popular Middle Eastern dish made from thinly sliced marinated meat, typically beef or chicken, wrapped in a pita bread. It's a common street food in Cairo.

Shawarma

A traditional Egyptian dish made from vegetables like peppers, tomatoes, or zucchini stuffed with rice and herbs. It's a common home-cooked meal in Cairo.

Mahshi

Traditional Egyptian grilled meats. Kebab is typically made from chunks of lamb while kofta is made from minced meat. Both are popular dishes in Cairo.

Kebab and Kofta

A traditional Egyptian appetizer made from mashed grilled eggplant mixed with tahini, olive oil, and various seasonings. It's often served with bread in Cairo.

Baba Ghanoush

A traditional Egyptian dessert made from pastry, milk, and nuts. It's a popular sweet treat in Cairo.

Om Ali

A popular Egyptian drink made from the juice of sugarcane. It's a common street beverage in Cairo, often served chilled.

Sugarcane Juice

A traditional Egyptian drink made from mint leaves and black tea. It's a common beverage served in cafes and homes in Cairo.

Mint Tea

A traditional Egyptian hot drink made from milk, sugar, and the ground tubers of the orchid genus Orchis. It's a popular winter beverage in Cairo.

Sahlab

Coptic Christmas Day

Revolution Day January 25

Day off for Revolution Day January 25

Spring Festival

Eid el Fitr Holiday

Eid el Fitr

Sinai Liberation Day

Labor Day

Day off for Labor Day

Arafat Day

Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha Holiday

June 30 Revolution

Day off for June 30 Revolution

Public Holiday

Muharram

Day off for Muharram

Revolution Day July 23

Prophet Mohamed's Birthday

Armed Forces Day

Day off for Revolution Day July 23

Day off for Armed Forces Day

One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Pyramids of Giza are a must-see.

Home to the Step Pyramid, the world's oldest stone structure.

Sakkara

This royal necropolis features the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid.

Dahshur

A beautiful oasis known for its water wheels and lush palm groves.

Fayoum Oasis

A city known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and the famous Library of Alexandria.

Alexandria

Famous for its World War II battlefields and war museum.

El Alamein

A bustling port city with a rich history and beautiful beaches.

Port Said

A popular destination for wind and kite surfing.

Ras Sudr

A beautiful beach resort town on the Red Sea.

Sharm El Sheikh

Known as the world's largest open-air museum, Luxor is home to the Valley of the Kings and other ancient sites.

Luxor

Aswan

Hurghada

Siwa Oasis

Cairo is the capital city of Egypt and is often referred to as 'The City of a Thousand Minarets'.

The official language is Arabic, but English and French are widely spoken and understood.

The currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Egypt is predominantly Muslim, so it's important to dress modestly. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites.

Cairo operates on Eastern European Time (EET) and observes daylight saving time.

The city has a desert climate, with hot summers (June to August) where temperatures can reach up to 95°F (35°C) and mild winters (December to February) with temperatures around 59°F (15°C).

Tipping, or 'baksheesh', is a common practice in Egypt. It's customary to tip waitstaff, hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides.

Cairo's tap water is generally safe to drink, but most tourists prefer to drink bottled water.

Public transportation includes the Metro, buses, and taxis. Be aware that taxis often don't use meters, so agree on a fare before starting your journey.

Egyptian cuisine is diverse and delicious. Try local dishes like koshari, ful medames, and molokhia.

Cairo is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and avoid less crowded areas at night.

The city can be quite crowded and chaotic, with heavy traffic and noise. Be prepared for this aspect of the Cairo experience.

Egypt uses the type C and type F plug. The standard voltage is 220 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

It's recommended to get travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as healthcare can be expensive.

It's customary to haggle in markets and bazaars. Start by offering half the asking price and negotiate from there.

Egypt requires a visa for most foreign visitors. You can apply for an e-Visa online before your trip.

Cairo is home to many stray cats and dogs. They are generally harmless, but avoid touching them to prevent potential diseases.

Smoking is very common in Cairo, and many restaurants and cafes have indoor smoking areas.

Egyptians are known for their hospitality. Don't be surprised if you're invited into a local's home for tea or a meal.

Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics and religion. Respect the local culture and customs.

January is the coldest month in Cairo, but it's still relatively warm with an average high of 19°C. It's a great time to visit if you want to avoid the intense summer heat.

February sees a slight increase in temperature, but it's still comfortable for sightseeing. The average high is 20°C, making it a pleasant time to explore the city.

March marks the beginning of spring in Cairo, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 24°C. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities and exploring historical sites.

April is a warm month with an average high of 29°C. It's a great time to visit the Pyramids of Giza, but remember to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.

May is the start of the hot season in Cairo, with temperatures reaching up to 34°C. Early morning and late evening are the best times to explore to avoid the midday heat.

June is one of the hottest months in Cairo, with an average high of 37°C. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions to escape the heat.

July is the peak of summer in Cairo, with temperatures reaching up to 38°C. It's advisable to plan indoor activities during the day and explore the city in the cooler evenings.

August is equally hot as July, with an average high of 38°C. It's a good time to visit the Nile River for a refreshing boat ride.

September marks the end of summer, but it's still quite hot with an average high of 36°C. It's a great time to visit the Egyptian Museum and other indoor attractions.

October sees a drop in temperature, making it a comfortable time to visit Cairo. The weather is perfect for exploring the city and its historical sites.

November is a pleasant month with an average high of 26°C. It's an ideal time to visit Cairo as the weather is comfortable for sightseeing.

December is a cool month in Cairo, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 22°C. It's a great time to explore the city without the intense summer heat.

Cairo, Egypt, is known for its hot desert climate, which means it experiences high temperatures, especially in the summer months from May to August. During this period, temperatures can soar up to 95°F (35°C) or even higher. Therefore, it's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunblock, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the intense sun.

The winter months, from November to February, are much milder with daytime temperatures averaging around 68°F (20°C). Nights can be surprisingly cool, dropping to around 50°F (10°C), so it's a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater if you're visiting during this time.

Despite the high temperatures, Cairo is quite dry throughout the year, with very little rainfall. However, from March to April and again from October to November, Cairo experiences the "khamsin" wind, a hot, dry wind filled with sand and dust. It's advisable to carry eye protection during these periods to avoid discomfort caused by the sand and dust in the wind.

Lastly, remember to stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months. Always carry a bottle of water with you and avoid being outside during the peak sun hours. 

Enjoy your trip to Cairo, and remember to respect the local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.

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1-Day Local's Guide to Cairo: Sightseeing, Food and Wine Solo Journey

About Cairo, Egypt