Egypt Travel Guide
10 Essential Tips for Surviving (and Loving) Cairo
By Nicole | 8 min read
Cairo is chaos in the best possible way — overwhelming, beautiful, ancient, and absolutely alive.
But it plays by its own rules. These are the 10 things that made the biggest difference for me — from avoiding scams to surviving traffic to actually enjoying the Pyramids without losing your mind. Go in prepared and you'll fall in love with this city.
Uber is Your Safe Space
Skip taxis entirely and stick to Uber. It gives you a digital trail, a fixed price, and the driver's info — all things that keep you safe in a city where meters "don't work" and prices triple for tourists.
The scam to watch for:
The driver stops 500 feet away and claims the app is "broken" or they don't accept card. They want you to cancel or pay cash so they get paid twice. If your driver stops moving and ignores messages — cancel immediately.
Pro Tip
Change your Uber payment to "Cash" before requesting. This is standard in Egypt — you'll see the price, pay in Egyptian Pounds at the end, zero risk of double-charge.
Dress in Linen Layers
You don't need to be covered head to toe, but modesty is your best tool for blending in. Think loose, breathable fabrics — linen trousers, midi-skirts, and tees that cover your shoulders and chest. It shows respect and significantly reduces unwanted attention.
Always in your bag
A light scarf to throw over your shoulders if you enter a mosque or feel underdressed. It's your best friend in Cairo.
Master the "La, Shukran"
Eye contact in Cairo is often seen as an invitation. Learn this phrase: La, Shukran (No, thank you). Say it firmly. Don't smile. Keep walking.
In many Western cultures, we stop and explain. In Cairo, the most polite thing you can do is be firm and keep moving. It's respected.
The Walk-Away Method (Haggling 101)
Haggling is practically a national sport. Counter-offer at about 50-60% of their initial ask, with the goal of meeting in the middle.
Your most powerful tool: the walk-away. If a vendor won't budge on a price you know is too high, politely say "La, Shukran" and start walking. Nine times out of ten, they'll call you back with a significantly lower offer.
Remember:
Keep it lighthearted — smiling and joking is part of the game. But once you agree on a price, it's poor etiquette to back out. Only start haggling if you're actually ready to buy.
How to Do the Pyramids Right
The best thing we did was booking a tour. It eliminates the stress of getting there, avoiding scams, and seeing everything. Tours are very affordable and include hotel pickup/drop-off plus a guide to keep you safe.
We booked one that included a camel ride — one of my favorite activities in Cairo. Worth every penny for the peace of mind alone.
Doing the Pyramids Solo (Scam Survival Guide)
If you go without a tour, the hustle is legendary. Here's what to watch for:
The "Official Entrance" Diversion
Men will wave your car down claiming the Tourist Gate is closed. Tell your driver to ignore them and drive directly to the Great Pyramid Ticket Office (Mena House side).
The Ticket "Checkers"
Men in civilian clothes ask to "check" your ticket, lead you somewhere, and demand a tip to give it back. Only show to uniformed officers at actual gates.
Camel Photo Up-Charging
You agree on $10, then they demand a "photo fee" or "dismount fee." Stick to official government stalls where prices are fixed and posted.
The Egyptian Museum "Guide" Scam
At the entrance of the original Egyptian Museum in Tahrir, men with official-looking lanyards will offer to show you the highlights "for free" because they "work there."
They don't. They'll rush you through, give questionable facts, and demand a high tip at the exit. Either book an official guide in advance or explore independently — the museum is easy to navigate on your own.
Safe Nightlife for 20-Somethings
Egypt is a majority Muslim country, so alcohol is harder to find and heavily taxed. Here's the play:
For Drinks
Buy your favorite bottle at Duty-Free before you fly. 1 liter per person. Way cheaper, guaranteed quality, and makes sunset balcony drinks much easier.
For Going Out
Cairo Jazz Club is the spot. Legendary in Cairo for live music and a safe night-out vibe. Message them on Facebook to get on the guest list.
Airport Survival Checklist
Do these two things before you leave the airport:
1. Buy your visa sticker ($25 USD)
Go to the bank windows BEFORE passport control. Cash only (USD is best). Do not stand in the passport line without this.
2. Get a SIM card immediately
Vodafone and Orange booths are right after baggage claim. Takes 5 minutes, very cheap, and essential for Uber. Before you call your Uber, make sure to change your payment to "Cash" before requesting to avoid scams.
The "Human Shield" Street Crossing Strategy
Cairo traffic has no real rules. Crosswalks are decorative. Horns are a love language. And somehow, everyone survives.
The safest way to cross: find a local who's already waiting and literally stand right next to them. Follow their lead as they step into traffic — they know the rhythm. Move at a slow, steady, predictable pace. Never run, because drivers calculate their path based on your current speed.
Match the local's energy and you'll be fine. Probably.