This city is an intense, dizzying metropolis.

Cairo, Egypt’s capital city, is often called the “gateway to Africa”. It is the focus of all major routes leading to and from three continents – Asia, Europe and Africa. This city is an intense, dizzying metropolis. Like many Middle Eastern cities, Cairo consists of an historic core replete with markets, mosques and medieval architecture. From this gravitational centre swirls a mishmash of affluent suburbs, skyscrapers and urban squalor.

The centre of one of the world’s great ancient civilizations and home to the last surviving wonder of the world, the Pyramid of Giza, 21st-century Cairo is all hectic urban sprawl, a metropolitan area crammed with over 18 million people. One quarter of all Egyptians live in Cairo, and it is the most populous city in Africa. Cairo’s location along the Nile River has made it the heart of the region from ancient times through to today.

Particularly popular amongst the astonishing array of ancient relics are the pyramids, just south of the city, including the iconic Sphinx, a half-human half-lion limestone figure built on desert sand. The Egyptian Museum is another gem; it holds treasures from the tomb of King Tutankhamen (including his solid-gold death mask) and a number of royal mummies.

Visitors should note that during the various Muslim holy days and festivals (the city is 94% Muslim), tourist attractions and businesses may have short opening hours or close early. During the month-long Ramadan, alcohol is rarely served outside of hotel bars and restaurants.

When to travel to Cairo

Cairo can be unbearably hot in the summer months between June and August. Best time to visit would be at any other time of the year. Winter evenings can be chilly, but if you are travelling south, is the best time to visit Egypt.