Cairo Family Travel Guide

Imagine traveling to a destination filled with monumental pyramids and welcoming locals, where your family adventure unfolds with every step. Welcome to Cairo, a vibrant city that offers a unique experience for families.

Is Cairo Suitable for Kids?

The charm of Egypt’s capital lies in its bustling atmosphere, engaging sights, and the warmth of its people. While the city’s public spaces may not prioritize pedestrian safety, older kids and teenagers can navigate Cairo with relative ease. However, younger children require close supervision due to the city’s unique environment.

To accommodate nursing mothers, the Metro provides women-only carriages. Given Cairo’s uneven pavements, strollers are often impractical; instead, a sturdy baby carrier is advisable for those traveling with infants and toddlers. Additionally, parents will find that clean public restrooms are scarce, but restaurants are typically accommodating for families needing diaper changes.

Top Family-Friendly Areas in Cairo

The area around the Citadel serves as an excellent destination for families. Parents can explore its museums and mosques while children enjoy running through spacious courtyards or playing games like “spot the Pyramids” amidst the skyline.

Nearby, Al-Azhar Park offers a beautiful landscape perfect for picnicking or simply enjoying an afternoon outdoors. As the sun sets, a visit to the vibrant market of Khan El-Khalili offers exciting culinary experiences and lively entertainment, making it ideal for families.

Activities for Babies and Toddlers

Enjoy the Parks

While Giza Zoo undergoes restoration until early 2025, Al-Azhar Park remains a go-to location for family outings within Downtown Cairo. Families residing in New Cairo or Nasr City should visit Family Park, which features expansive green spaces, sandy play areas, and even a mini zoo, making it a fantastic outing. Pack your own snacks to enjoy during your visit.

Relax at a Wellness Retreat

For a serene escape from the city’s hustle, Osana Wellness in Maadi is recommended. This tranquil location offers nutritious meals, yoga and meditation classes for all ages, and a dedicated space for young children to play. Adults can also take advantage of the garden area to unwind.

Mother and son with a camel at the Pyramids of Giza, Egypt — Take a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the Pyramids of Giza with your children © Joshua Dalsimer / Getty Images

Activities for Kids

Creative Experiences

If your children enjoy hands-on activities, visit Woods Artground at Merryland Park in Heliopolis. They can participate in various creative endeavors such as painting, pottery, and gardening.

Visit the Pyramids

No trip to Cairo is complete without visiting the iconic Pyramids of Giza. Kids will appreciate the opportunity to explore the desert landscape while gaining firsthand knowledge about ancient Egyptian civilization. Keep an eye out for vendors offering “free gifts” to children, as they often expect payment.

Explore Mummies at the Museum

The Grand Egyptian Museum is set to open its doors to visitors in early 2024, and families can take part in a special exhibition featuring Tutankhamun. Although this immersive experience is not specifically designed for children, the engaging visuals can be intriguing. However, the museum is not recommended for toddlers due to sensory overload.

Enjoy a Traditional Performance

Catch a captivating tanoura show where whirling dervishes dazzle audiences at Wikala al-Ghouri in Old Cairo. The performances typically include entertaining clowns, keeping younger family members engaged. Arriving early is advisable to secure tickets.

Nubian felucca sailing crew on trip on the Nile for tourists — Teens will love getting out on the Nile whether by felucca, kayak or SUP © Getty Images

Activities for Teenagers and Tweenagers

Kayaking or SUP on the Nile

For adventurous families, consider kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on the Nile. For a relaxed experience, Zamalek Kayak or Nile Kayak Club are great options. For those seeking a challenge, try SUP sessions with local companies. A sunset meal on a felucca afterward makes for a memorable outing.

Engage with Locals at a Coffee House

Introduce your teens to a local coffee house experience by visiting a traditional ahwa in Downtown or Old Cairo, such as Fishawy. They can enjoy a drink while learning to play backgammon or dominoes with local patrons, making for a fun and cultural evening.

Planning Tips for Families

Purchase a multi-use Metro card for convenient family travel.
Acquire a local SIM card for easy access to data and rideshare services.
Always carry a refillable water bottle. Ensure to buy large bottled water for safe drinking.
Familiarize yourself with local pharmacies for any healthcare needs during your stay.