Current Time in Cairo
Cairo, known as Al Qâhirah in Arabic, is a city where ancient and modern civilization comes together in one chaotic experience. A visit to this capital city can be hot, crowded, exhausting…and completely exhilarating.
When to Go
While we advocate traveling in the off season for steeper discounts and fewer crowds, expect some major heat waves in this desertland. (There’s a reason that most of the population is clustered around the banks of the Nile.) The “hot” season runs from May to October, with temperatures rising into the high 90s and the cooler season lasts from November to April when temperatures can drop into the 50s. Stick with the months of March to April or October and November for decent weather with less tourists.
What to watch for
The months of late March to early June can be difficult as it’s when the hot, dry khamsin winds that carry particles of desert sand that can be irritating.
Food and Drink
The basic health issues apply here: most foods and drinks are safe, but it’s a good idea to stick to bottled water and skip the uncooked fruits and vegetables.
The food you’ll find in Cairo one of the best reasons to go there! Street stalls, casual counters and elegant five-star affairs, the food here is often cheap, nutritious and delicious. Our favorites are probably the most generic of the bunch: slabs of lamb cooked on a spit and crispy falafel fresh from the deep fryer. 
Keep in mind that Egypt is predominantly a Muslim country, so while alcohol may be available, it’s not always plentiful. The Nile River cruises, for example, may have beer and wine on board, but scoring mixed drinks may be difficult. It’s also a culture where drinking heavily and being obnoxious in public is frowned upon.
Currency
The currency in Cairo is the Egyptian pound (£E), which is divided into 100 piasters. Currently, one US dollar is worth about 5.7 Egyptian pounds.
For up-to-date currency conversions, visit www.xe.com/ucc
Tipping
The term for tipping in Arabic is baksheesh, and it is widely accepted throughout the country. Even if a service charge is already added, it’s a good idea to add a small 5 percent tip to bellmen and waiters. Taxi drivers expect about 10 percent on top of the fare. While you should never feel pressured to tip, don’t be afraid to grease some palms in Cairo—a tip can go a long way in getting better service.
Airport Information
The main airport is Cairo International Airport. Several Egyptian tours that include the city of Luxor (where you can embark on a Nile River cruise), also depart from Cairo International.
https://www.azworldairports.com/airports/p1500.htm
Important Holidays
The month of Ramadan is the holiest time of year for the Muslim religion. It’s based on a lunar cycle which means that it falls on different dates each year—in 2007, it will begin on September 12 at sundown. During this month, the Muslim community abstains from eating and drinking between sunrise and sunset, follow special prayers, and spend time in reflection and giving charity. Restaurants and attractions may have limited hours. But that doesn’t mean it’s a time to avoid traveling. This is when Cairo lights up with glass lanterns and colorful streamers, and locals flock to eateries in the evenings. Eid, the last night of Ramadan is a joyous all-night occasion before the breaking of the fast. Eid celebrations last three days, during which many popular spots may be closed.
Other public holidays to know
January 7 – Coptic Christmas
March 26 – Sinai Day
May 1 – Labor Day
June 5 – Suez Canal Day
July 23 – Independence (Revolution) Day
October 6 – Armed Forces Day
Resources
Egyptian Embassy: https://www.egyptembassy.net
U.S. State Department (passport/visa information and travel advisories): https://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1108.html
English language newspapers: https://www.world-newspapers.com/egypt.html
For more cities, check out our “Off the Brochure” series.
