Summary
Cairo stands out as one of the most affordable cities worldwide, where a mere US$11 grants access to a wonder of the world. The capital of Egypt serves as an excellent destination for frugal travelers, featuring reasonable rates for accommodations, even in upscale establishments when planned appropriately, alongside economical food and activities.
Nonetheless, it is important to note that Egypt’s economy is currently facing challenges. The inflation rate has surged, resulting in the Egyptian pound being worth half of its value in 2022, and the currency significantly depreciated against the US dollar in January 2023. While favorable exchange rates may benefit international visitors, widespread poverty is becoming increasingly apparent, with essential items like eggs and meat turning into luxury goods for many middle-class Egyptian families.
Tourism constitutes a substantial portion of Egypt’s GDP; thus, it is crucial to compensate service providers fairly and engage in respectful negotiation practices. Below are strategies for visiting Cairo while on a budget.
Daily Costs
- Bed in a hostel dorm: LE247 (US$8)
- Basic hotel room for two: LE927 (US$30)
- Independent boutique hotel: LE2165-3710 (US$70-120)
- Cairo Metro ticket: LE5-10 (US$0.15-0.30)
- Cup of Turkish coffee: LE26 (US$0.85)
- Falafel sandwich: LE20 (US$0.65)
- Sit-down dinner for two: LE310 (US$10)
- Museum or archaeological site entry: LE95-465 (US$3-15)
Average Daily Cost
- Budget: LE930-1545 (US$30–50)
- Midrange: LE1545-4640 (US$50–150)
- High-end: LE4640+ (US$150+)
1. Check Whether It’s Cheaper to Fly to Sphinx International Airport
Cairo currently features two operational airports: Cairo International, which has served as the primary airport for decades and is the largest and busiest in Egypt, and Sphinx International located on the western bank of the Nile River in Giza. Sphinx Airport commenced operations in 2019 on a trial basis and began receiving flights from European destinations on budget airlines starting in 2023. This development has made budget travel to the capital more accessible.
Condor, a German low-cost carrier, initiated flights from Frankfurt in May 2023, while EasyJet and Wizz Air commenced services from London shortly thereafter. Budget airlines have also introduced routes from Berlin, Budapest, Milan, and Rome. Additionally, travelers can avail themselves of services offered by Middle Eastern low-cost airlines such as Air Arabia, Air Cairo, Flydubai, Flynas, and Jazeera Airways to Sphinx International.
2. Fly to a Red Sea Resort Town First
If flights to Sphinx International are not suitable and those headed to Cairo International exceed your budget, investigate whether low-cost airlines in your area offer flights to Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada, well-known resort towns along Egypt’s Red Sea coastline. Flights towards these destinations are typically more economical than those directly to Cairo, and beginning or concluding your trip to the capital with some relaxation on the Red Sea is a wise choice.
Moreover, taking an internal flight within Egypt is often more cost-effective compared to international fares, or alternatively, you can pursue a more economical option and travel by bus to the capital. Go Bus offers routes from both Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada for as little as US$8.
3. Bring Your Student ID
Egypt holds a rich array of archaeological sites where remarkable discoveries continue to unfold. Actual students under 30 years of age can benefit greatly, receiving a 50% discount on ticket prices at all government-operated sites around Cairo and further afield, such as the Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum, the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, the Coptic Museum, and the Citadel.
It is advisable to obtain an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) to guarantee your discount; the nominal fee of US$25 will quickly prove to be a cost-effective investment.
4. Buy the Cairo Pass
For those intent on exploring the pyramids and the Egyptian Museum multiple times, purchasing a Cairo Pass might be more economical than acquiring individual tickets. This pass provides access to the primary tourist attractions in the capital for a fixed price of US$130 for five days.
While the pass does offer certain benefits, it is important to evaluate whether it is financially advantageous for you. If a visit to Luxor is in your plans and the Luxor Pass seems appealing, acquiring both passes entitles you to a 50% discount on the second pass purchased. Please note that payments for the Cairo Pass or Luxor Pass must be made in US dollars or euros, in contrast to individual site tickets which are priced in Egyptian pounds. Given the fluctuating exchange rates, individual tickets may occasionally be cheaper.
The Cairo Pass can be obtained at the Egyptian Museum, the Giza Plateau, or the Citadel. To acquire the pass, bring your passport along with two photocopies of your primary passport page and two passport-sized photographs. Students can also avail themselves of a 50% discount on the Cairo Pass with valid identification. It is essential to pay the exact amount in crisp, new banknotes.
5. Carry Your Passport
Egyptian citizens benefit from substantially lower admission rates at cultural sites. For instance, a ticket to the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square costs LE30 (less than $1) for residents but LE450 (US$14.50) for foreign visitors. However, passport holders from Arab nations qualify for local pricing, so ensure you have your passport handy for verification purposes.
6. Stick to Street Food
Street food is deeply embedded in Cairo’s culinary landscape, representing an authentic and economical way for locals to enjoy a meal. Seek out lively establishments where fresh ingredients are more likely to be used. Popular options include crispy ta’maya (Egyptian falafel, prepared with fava beans), koshary (a beloved Egyptian dish comprising spaghetti, noodles, rice, lentils, and chickpeas), and shawarma wraps.
7. Go for the Upgrade
Although reserving at a high-end branded property may seem contradictory to budget travel, four- or five-star accommodations are often more affordable in Cairo than in many other major cities. By opting for a more luxurious double room instead of a dormitory bed, travelers can enjoy a more indulgent experience without significantly exceeding their budget.
Cairo boasts a wide range of accommodations, including both historical venues and contemporary skyscrapers with rooftop pools, often at rates lower than anticipated, especially during the less crowded summer months.
It is wise to book these properties in advance online to secure the best rates. Additionally, remain vigilant for promotional sales and package offers prior to your trip. Keep in mind that the Egyptian weekend occurs on Fridays and Saturdays, so costs for Thursday and Friday night stays may be higher.
8. Pay in Person for an Extended Stay
For efficient planners, it may be beneficial to reconsider booking strategies. In instances where you are staying at smaller accommodations, such as locally operated hostels or bed and breakfasts, arrange a few nights beforehand and inquire about extending your stay upon arrival. Often, you will receive a more economical rate than what is available online.
Moreover, excursions and tours are frequently less expensive to book directly in Egypt rather than prearranging them online.
9. Getting Around Cairo
Cairo is well-known for its heavy traffic; thus, utilizing the Cairo Metro provides a budget-friendly and effective way to navigate the city. Although the metro system may not be extensive—comprising 74 stops across three lines—it allows you to save both time and money during your travels. Ticket prices range from LE5 ($0.15) to LE10 ($0.30), depending on the number of stations traversed. Senior travelers over 60 years old qualify for a 50% discount on ticket prices. Notably, two metro carriages are designated for women, although women are permitted to ride in the other carriages as well.
In cases where the metro is not an option, using Uber is often cheaper than in other metropolitan areas, eliminating the need for fare negotiations with drivers.
