Middle East: Round-the-World Travel Destinations

Budget Scale: 1-5

1-least expensive; 5-most expensive
2– It’s possible for backpackers to get by on about $20US/day, but that won’t get you much. If you’re more of a middle of the road traveler, plan on spending anywhere from $30-$50US/day.

Indie Travel Scale: 1-5

1-not a good Indie Travel destination; 5-a great Indie Travel destination
4– Cairo is going to hit you upside the head with a cacophony of noise, chaos, and pollution. It can be pretty overwhelming for any type of traveler, and there are plenty of indie travel opportunities.
Indie Travel Tips
Follow these tips to have an indie travel experience in Cairo.

• If you’re into markets and bazaars, then head to the Khan al-Khalili bazaar. Bring your bargaining hat.
• Make sure you take some breaks and get some tea, a bite to eat, or stop to smoke some sheesha, while in the bazzar.
• Visit Giza Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the world.
• Hang out at the Al Orman Gardens to escape hustle and bustle and noise of the city.
• Go to the Wadi Digla Protected Area for a plethora of outdoor activities – hiking, running, rock climbing, and bike riding among them.

Why you should add Cairo to your RTW travel list

• Let’s face it: the pyramids
• Eat dust at the Pharaohs’ 4WD Rally in October
• Wander for hours through ancient Egyptian history at the Egyptian Museum
• Go shopping in Khan al-Khalili, the massive bazaar
• A base to explore the pyramids and temples at Saqqara
• Put your money down at the Birqash Camel Market
• Sail the Nile on a felucca

Why you should not add Cairo to your RTW travel list

• It can be completely overwhelming no matter how experienced of a traveler you are. The noise, pollution, and touts can drive people mad.
• Trying to figure out your best options for not getting ripped off while seeing the sites can be difficult.

Are you heading to Cairo? What do you need to do?

• Buy a plane ticket to/from Cairo
• Book a Cairo hostel
• Book a Cairo hotel
• Talk to travelers on the Middle East message boards
• Read travel articles on the Middle East

Back to RTW Travel Destinations
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