Welcome to Cairo! As the capital of Egypt and the largest city in both Africa and the Middle East, Cairo boasts a rich history and vibrant culture. It has been a center for trade, industry, and culture for over 1,000 years and has been called the "City of 1,000 Minarets." Home to the ancient world's wonders such as the Giza Pyramids, the Cairo Citadel, and the Al-Azhar Mosque, Cairo is an exciting and dynamic destination for any traveler. From bustling markets and delicious food, to vibrant nightlife and breathtaking monuments, Cairo has something to offer everyone.
Getting to Know Cairo
Cairo is the largest city in the Arab world, with a population of 16 million, making it the 19th largest city in the world. It is located in the Eastern European Time Zone and enjoys a warm desert climate. Arabic is the official language of Cairo, though English and French are also widely spoken. Additionally, the main currency used in Cairo is the Egyptian pound.
Climate and Weather
The climate of Cairo is subtropical, with hot and humid summers, and mild and dry winters. Temperature fluctuations are mild, with averages ranging from highs of 25C in January to highs of 35C in July. Humidity is generally high throughout the year, with a peak of nearly 80% in August.
Rainfall is generally minimal during the winter months, varying between 0-2 mm per month. However, during the summer months of May, June, and July, some of the heaviest rainfall of the year can occur as a result of the African monsoon.
Overall, the climate of Cairo can be described as hot and humid, but with fairly mild and dry winters. The extended summer season, from May through August, typically sees high levels of humidity and intense thunderstorm activity.
Touring Cairo: Airport and Transportation
There are three airports in Cairo: Cairo International Airport (CAI), Al Mostakbal City Airport (OSX) and Almaza Airport (HEAZ).
The main airport is Cairo International Airport and it is situated around 15 kilometers to the northeast of downtown Cairo. The quickest way to get from the main airport to downtown Cairo is by taxi and the fare will cost around 250 Egyptian pounds (approx 30 USD).
Yes, there is a currency exchange desk located in the main terminal of Cairo International Airport.
Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Cairo
- Cairo is an ancient city with an incredibly rich history, boasting sites that span thousands of years. The city is home to a variety of monuments, mosques, churches, and tombs from various periods, such as the Pyramids of Giza and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali
- Cairo is a vibrant melting pot of culture and tradition. It has a unique food culture and is renowned for its cuisine that blends traditional Egyptian ingredients with spices and recipes from the Middle East and North Africa
- Visitors to Cairo can also experience its vibrant local music scene, from traditional to modern, as well as its thriving art scene with a variety of galleries, museums, and vibrant art markets. There is also a thriving nightlife scene in the city’s many bars and nightclubs
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