Tourism In Cairo Statistics 2024: All You Need To Know

 

When it comes to the “City Of A Thousand Minarets”, there’s a lot to know. Nestled along the timeless banks of Africa’s longest river, Cairo is a layered mix of the ancient past, and pulsating modernity. It’s an incredibly captivating city with the smell of ta’amenya and coffee as well as the sounds of traffic and bazaars, not to mention its backdrop of the towering pyramids.  

 

Whether you're tracing the footsteps of pharaohs along the Nile or admiring the intricate beauty of Islamic architecture with a Cairo tour guide, this article gives you the foundation you need to  create an unforgettable journey through time. So if you crave an authentic taste of ancient history alongside delectable cuisine and a vibrant cultural atmosphere, Cairo eagerly awaits your arrival!

 

 

Exploring Cairo's Tourism Landscape: Key Statistical Insights

 

Cairo is the heart of Egypt that draws in travelers from every corner of the globe. But what makes this ancient city, and Egypt in general, such a magnet for tourists? Let’s go over some Cairo tourism statistics to understand a little more about this fascinating place!

 

 

• The Pull of Egypt's Past: Egypt's allure for tourists lies in its history, culture and captivating landscapes. From the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza, which attracts over 14.7 million visitors annually, to the majestic temples of Luxor, the country's ancient wonders draw adventurers eager to learn about the past. Cairo, Saqqara, Luxor and Aswan make up a large chunk of Egypt’s tourism. 

• Aviation Awe: If you decide to fly into Cairo International Airport for your trip, you will be one of the 28 million who fill the airport's capacity, which has spiked dramatically from 5 million when it first opened in 1963. That’s a whopping 37,000 international and domestic passengers daily! 

• Looking Ahead: Cairo is gearing up to host even more travelers in the coming years. Projections suggest that by 2026, tourism in Cairo alone could contribute a whopping $2.4 billion to the city's economy, cementing its status as a global tourism powerhouse.

 

Cairo Tourism Quick Facts

• 14.7 million - the number of tourists that visit the Pyramids of Giza yearly

•  477/700 - Cairo’s English proficiency score, which is low on the global scale

• 2.4 Billion USD - The projected GDP contribution that tourism in Cairo is set to bring to Egypt’s economy in 2026. 

• 50.63 - Cairo’s overall crime index (moderate)

Rediscovering Cairo: Navigating Travel Post-Pandemic

Post-pandemic, travelers are once again setting their sights on the wonders of Cairo. You might be wondering, ‘Is tourism declining in Egypt?’ And ‘What lies ahead for this ancient land?’

 

Despite facing unprecedented challenges, Egypt's tourism industry has shown remarkable recovery. While the pandemic dealt a significant blow, signs of recovery are clear from the number of tourists listed above. What’s more, the tourism industry is estimated to make a total contribution of over 600 billion Egyptian pounds to the Egyptian economy by 2028.

Cairo Uncovered: Top Attractions In The City

 

So, welcome to Cairo, an energetic metropolis bursting with antique treasures and endless cultural experiences! Being here is like being on a journey through time as you discover Cairo's top attractions and hidden gems. From the iconic Pyramids of Giza standing stoically for over 4,500 years to the bustling Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, where every alleyway tells a tale, Cairo promises an adventure like no other.

 

So, if you’re looking for tourism attractions in Cairo, Egypt, here's a sneak peek at what awaits:

 

 

• Pyramids of Giza: Marvel at the towering pyramids of kings Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure, guarded by the enigmatic Great Sphinx. You can enter the pyramids at an extra cost.

• Museum of Egyptian Antiquities: Delve into the rich tapestry of Egypt's past amidst this treasure trove of ancient artifacts. 

• Grand Egyptian Museum: Prepare to be awe-struck by the world's largest archaeological museum, set to house over 50,000 artifacts, including the legendary Tutankhamen collection. The museum is set to open in late spring, 2024.

• Coptic Cairo: Wander through the ancient alleyways of the city's oldest neighborhood, adorned with historic churches, mosques and synagogues.

• National Museum of Egyptian Civilization: Come see 22 royal mummies, 18 kings and four queens, showcasing Egypt’s history from the Pharaonic up to the Coptic and Islamic eras.

• Khan El-Khalili Bazaar: Lose yourself in the maze-like alleys of this bustling marketplace, where every corner holds a hidden treasure. Find incense sticks, tea cups, mini hookah, feteer (an Egyptian pastry) and koshary. 

• Salah El Din Citadel: Ascend to the citadel perched atop the Mokattam hills for panoramic views of Cairo and a glimpse into centuries of history.

 

Read more about our top 5 must-see attractions in Cairo!

 

So, pack your sense of adventure and get ready to uncover the wonders of Cairo, where every step echoes with the whispers of the past and the vibrancy of the present!

 

Cairo’s Neighborhoods:

 

Cairo, the most visited parts of Egypt, boast diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique experience. Whether you want street food or leafy suburbs, let’s go over a few:

 

• Zamalek: An affluent oasis on the Nile island, known for large, leafy trees, high-end dining, antique shopping and a vibrant nightlife.

• Downtown Cairo: Designed by French architects, this area hosts budget accommodations, street food delights and bustling markets, including the famous Tahrir Square.

• Maadi: An upscale, tranquil neighborhood along the Nile, offering lush greenery, parks and a variety of dining options, creating a serene community atmosphere.

 

Looking to get out of the city? Here are 4-day Trips From Cairo!

 

 

Dive Into History & Heritage: Cairo's Festivals & Events

 

Have you thought about lining up your trip to Cairo with events that are happening in the city? Cairo's vibrant tapestry of events, blends tradition with modern flair, and there’s quite a few fun and interesting festivals and activities to participate in while there. Let’s go over a few of them!

 

• Coptic Christmas (January 7): Step into the Egyptian Orthodox Church's festive celebrations.

• Ramadan (March): Experience the magic of Cairo's nighttime bazaars, ablaze with lights, shopping, food and energy. The days can be difficult to explore the city, though, as restaurants and stores are closed.

• Downtown Contemporary Arts Festival (March/April): Immerse yourself in cutting-edge art and music from around the globe.

• Eid ul-Fitr (April): Join the jubilant festivities marking the end of Ramadan, with delicious food, live music and lively dancing.

• Eid al-Adha (June): A festival remembering Ibrahim’s sacrifice is often marked by remembrance and exchanges of gifts. 

• Cairo Bites (September): Indulge in a culinary adventure at the Cairo Bites festival, where local restaurants showcase their specialties and top chefs host cooking workshops.

 

 

Indulge Your Palate: Must-Try Culinary Delights In Cairo

 

In Cairo, the food scene is a flavorful adventure. From classic Egyptian dishes like ful medames and aish baladi to international delights like Korean bites, everyone will find something to indulge in. 

 

And we mean that! Even for vegans and vegetarians. Cairo’s cuisine often focuses on beans, falafel and fresh salads, with meat lovers also being able to enjoy sizzling liver sandwiches and hearty stews.

 

Once the sun sets, Cairo's nightlife begins. Head into baladi bars for coffee, and experience the city's vibrant social scene!

 

• Ful Medames: Creamy fava bean stew, a national treasure.

• Aish Baladi: Freshly baked Egyptian flatbread, perfect for scooping up flavors.

• Koshari: A street food favorite, a hearty mix of lentils, rice, and more.

• Molokhia: A comforting chicken broth soup made with jute leaves.

• Falafel: Deep-fried delights bursting with herbs and flavor.

• Karkadeh: Sweet hibiscus tea, served hot or cold.

• Sahlab: A cozy orchid bulb drink, topped with pistachios and cinnamon.

• Qamar Al-Din: Cold, sweet apricot tea, a Ramadan tradition.

 

Is your stomach is grumbling? — same here! But there’s so much more to go over, so you’ll have to wait before booking your trip. So let’s figure out how you’re going to explore the city.

 

 

Cairo Travel Tips: Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring the City

 

Getting Around

Getting around Cairo can be a wild ride, literally! While the buzzing traffic might slow you down, fear not, for Cairo's public transport is here to save the day. Hop on the speedy taxi services, or brave the local buses and shared minibuses for a truly adventurous journey.

 

• Public Transport: Cairo has a clean and efficient metro/microbus system, offering an affordable way to zip around the city. With fares as low as USD$0.11 per metro trip, exploring Cairo has never been easier on the wallet! It’s not easy though, and public transport, especially buses, are crowded and are a hotspot for pickpockets. 
  
• Rideshare: Embrace the convenience of ride-sharing with apps like Uber or Careem, making navigation a breeze at your fingertips. Plus, it's often the cheapest private option for getting around the city, along with the safest.

 

Eternal Sunshine: Cairo’s Season & When to Visit

 

Cairo, the bustling heart of Egypt, experiences more variety in seasons than the rest of the country, each offering its own charm and challenges for travelers.

 

 

• September to March: This is Cairo's most pleasant season of weather, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, perfect for exploring the city without breaking a sweat. February and March shine brightest, boasting sunny skies and average temperatures of 15°C and 18°C respectively.
  
• March to April: Brace yourself for sandstorms, as strong winds sweep through Cairo during this time, occasionally rendering outdoor activities impossible.
  
• May to August: This is the period of scorching heat. Cairo's summer has temperatures soaring to 35°C-38°C, with July being the hottest month. While the low humidity offers some relief, the combination of heat and pollution can make afternoons unpleasant. If you can brave the heat, though, you'll enjoy cheaper travel deals during this season.

 

Best Time to Visit: For a perfect blend of pleasant weather and being able to explore all the cultural sights, aim for February and March. History buffs should plan for at least a week to immerse themselves fully in Cairo's rich tapestry of history and culture, while those seeking just the highlights can make do with three days in Cairo.

 

Alright, you know where you’re going, when you’re going, what you’re eating and how you’re traveling around the city, but what about that all-important question — safety? Let’s tackle that next.

 

 

Planning Your Cairo Adventure: Essential Tourism Insights

 

Every country has its pros and cons: Cairo is the same. There is a lot to celebrate about and explore in Cairo, but unfortunately, there are also a few realities that need to be understood before you arrive.

 

While Egypt is tourist friendly and Cairo is safe to travel to, there are necessary precautions you must take, especially when it comes to scams. They won’t necessarily put you at risk; they can just be incredibly frustrating and can sometimes ruin your entire experience.  

 

Here are a few dos and don’ts for tourists in Cairo to keep in mind when traveling through the capital. 

 

 

Dos:

 

• Check Safety Alerts Ahead Of Time: Before traveling to Cairo, inquire about the current safety situation to ensure a worry-free adventure. Your embassy should have safety level warnings to adhere to.

• Stay Alert When Crossing The Road: To say Cairo’s traffic rules and driving culture is chaotic would be an understatement. When in Cairo, it’s best to be as cautious as possible whether you’re crossing the road, or simply walking along a sidewalk. Unfortunately, cars have the right of way. 

• Avoid On The Ground Scams: Research and book tours from legitimate sites in advance to steer clear of scams. There are many “free tours” on or around sites that aren’t really free. Also, familiarize yourself with the prices of goods like gold to avoid being overcharged. For an authentic guided experience, stay away from “free Egyptologist” tours. 

• Dress Appropriately: As a general rule, cover your shoulders and dress modestly to respect local customs (no crop tops, short shorts). Also, the sun is blazing! So when you can, cover your arms, neck and legs with light, breathable fabrics. 

• Carry Cash: Plan to haggle at markets, souvenir shops and in taxis. It’s encouraged! To do that effectively, you’ll need cash, as many vendors don’t have card machines. 

Don'ts:

 

• Trusting Taxi Drivers: Avoid taking taxis that may overcharge or take you to different locations. Some let meters run overtime or claim the meter doesn’t work. Consider using Uber for more reliable transportation if you need a taxi.

• Heading To Fake Papyrus and Perfume Museums: When looking for authentic souvenirs, be cautious of pressure to purchase items, and when dining, ensure any offered drinks are complimentary. Some of the papyrus shops sell fake wares, so seek out genuine wares from reputable guides. 

• Photographing People: Refrain from taking photos of individuals holding camels or wearing traditional clothing, as you may be asked to pay. Within the city, taking photos can lead to harassment from officers. 

• Paying for Mosque or Church Entry: Entry to religious sites is typically free. Any request for payment indicates a scam. To avoid this, ask your guide about site costs and reputable ticket vendors. 

• Lodging At Homestays: Opt for larger hotels with more staff and guests for added safety and security. Homestays can often be seen as targets for thieves looking to rob foreign travelers. 

Staying Safe: The Cairo Edition

While Cairo is a magnificent and culturally rich cities, you do have to go beyond the usual travel safety tips when touring the city. Cairo has a crime index of 50.63 and a safety index of 49.37 which is moderate. Here are some Cairo-specific tips to keep your trip as safe as possible. 

 

• Stay Away from ALL political gatherings, protests or strikes: These can get rowdy rather quickly, and it would be a terrible thing to get caught up in any violent encounters, especially as a foreigner. 

• If it’s your first time in the city, it’s best to be introduced to it with a local, trusted guide who knows the streets that are safe, and which streets should be avoided. They can also help you avoid local scams and buy authentic goods. 

• Women should avoid walking alone at night, as verbal harassment is common. 

 

Is Cairo safe to travel as a female solo traveler? While many women do, Cairo isn't the most ideal of locations for solo travel for women. While many men are respectful, be prepared for potential verbal harassment and sexist attitudes, even when accompanied by a male partner or guide.

 

Don’t let this be reason to not head to Cairo. If you’re a lover of history and culture, the city is magnificent to explore and travel to, you just have to have an understanding of what you may encounter when there so you’re prepared and aware. 

 

Conclusion

So, are you ready to explore the ancient monuments, bustling bazaars and vibrant cultural scene of Cairo? Book a private tour or connect with a Cairo tour guide to get your adventure started!