The 8 Best Family Friendly Activities in Cairo with Kids
Exploring Cairo with Kids
I’d say we are quite well travelled yet still felt some apprehension about our visit to Cairo. It is a big city, filled with the hustle and bustle of daily life of the locals and from a distance it seemed intimidating. But once we peeled back the layers, Cairo is packed full of welcoming locals, amazing activities and obviously an abundance of history.
So welcome to our comprehensive guide of the best activities to do with kids in the vibrant city of Cairo.
So, Why Cairo with kids?
What makes Cairo a unique destination for family travel? From mind-boggling museums, enchanting pyramids, to fun amusement parks, there are endless opportunities for adventure. We’ve selected the most exciting activities Cairo has to offer. Our selections cater to a variety of interests and age groups, so whether your little ones are budding historians, adrenaline junkies, or animal lovers, we’ve got something for everyone.
Top activities for families in Cairo
1. The Giza Pyramids
Let’s start with the obvious, a visit to Cairo would not be complete without seeing the iconic Giza Pyramids. These ancient wonders are not only awe-inspiring but also provide a great opportunity for kids to learn about ancient history. Families can explore the pyramids, take camel rides, and even enter the burial chambers. The nearby Sphinx is also a must-see attraction. We arrived and left with so many questions, even with a guide, these wonders of the world really lived up to the expectation.
You and your kids will have so many questions when you set your eyes on these ancient wonders – So here is our Kids Guide to the Pyramids with some of the answers you will need for the inevitable take of 20 (or 200) questions.
Hire a guide, join a tour or go your own way, you won’t be disappointed. You also won’t be on your own, The Pyramids can get very busy.
2. Egyptian Museum
Whilst we are in history mode, step back in time to the Egyptian Museum. Home to over 250,000 ancient artefacts, the museum offers a rich insight into Egypt’s fascinating history and has an Indiana charm about it. From dusty cabinets and stumbling across hidden mummies in the back of a cupboard, there are a HUGE amount of artifacts here. But the absolute highlight has to be King Tutankhamun’s treasures from his tomb. Mind boggling amounts of gold. His mummy can be found in his tomb in Luxor.
Point to note-**The Grand Egyptian Museum, expected to open 2021..wait 2022…2023- nope…maybe 2024?
The Grand Egyptian Museum, also known as GEM, is (going to be) one of the most significant cultural projects in Egypt. It is located near the Giza Pyramids and is set to be the largest archaeological museum in the world dedicated to a single civilization. The museum aims to showcase the rich history and heritage of ancient Egypt, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the country’s ancient civilization. But it’s not open yet!
On our visit in October 2022, things were being taken from the Egyptian museum to GEM ready for opening. It will house over 100,000 artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun.
3. Al-Azhar Park
Al-Azhar Park is a beautiful green oasis in the heart of Cairo, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Local families enjoy picnics, stroll through the gardens, and take in the stunning views of Cairo’s skyline and it’s a great place to pop by to rest. Cairo can be intense and this area gives you a welcome break from the city. The park also features a playground and a lake where kids can rent paddleboats.
4. Haggle your way through the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
Markets, filled with trinkets are a kid’s wonderland. Teach them to haggle, give them some loose change and send them on their way (not literally- you have to go with them!) to shop. If you’re looking for an unforgettable family experience during your stay in the heart of Egypt’s vibrant capital, the eclectic Khan el-Khalili Bazaar shouldn’t be missed. Known as one of the oldest bazaars in Middle East, this sprawling marketplace is filled with colourful stalls and treasures
5. Take a Boat Ride on the Nile River
If you’re looking for a calm escape from Cairo’s lively city life, a peaceful boat ride on the historic Nile River can’t be beat, you still have to take your kids but it should be relatively peaceful. You can also take a sunset or night cruise for a different view of the Cairo skyline.
There are a few different types of boats to choose from. The traditional felucca sailboats are a top pick with their characteristic sail, providing a slow-paced, tranquil journey.
Otherwise, if you’re keen on a longer trip, motorised yachts and Nile cruisers offer a more plush experience. These boats often include dining facilities and a chance to have a dinner cruise.
6. Try Egyptian Cuisine at Local Restaurants
Whilst you’re amidst the bustling streets of Cairo, don’t forget to introduce your kids to the Egyptian cuisine. Read our guide on the food to try in Egypt.
And if Egyptian food doesn’t take your fancy, you can find all food from all cuisines and for all budgets in Cairo.
7. Go skiing
Who would have thought you could hit the slopes in the heart of Cairo? Well, brace yourselves for a snow-filled surprise at Ski Egypt, found inside the Mall of Egypt.
This snowy playground right in the midst of the desert city was a definite must for our snow deprived children and the fact they had penguins made it a guaranteed must do. With a sprawling 7,700 square meters of snow park, complete with slopes, ramps, and even a ski lift, it’s a winter wonderland for both the little ones and the grown-ups. Your kids can give skiing or snowboarding a go or just have fun in the snow park. Ski Egypt has you covered with all the gear and clothing, so no need to lug anything along.
8. See a traditional Sufi dance
If you’re up for a mesmerizing cultural experience in Cairo, make your way to the renowned Al-Ghouri Complex, right in the heart of Islamic Cairo for a traditional Sufi dance. When we say mesmerising, we mean it, it is fascinating but also slightly nauseating watching the impressive amount of spinning done by these dancers. This historic gem regularly hosts Sufi dance performances, showing the enchanting Sama dance.
This spiritual ritual, performed by followers of Sufism, the mystical side of Islam, is a spectacle to behold. Watch as the dervishes, the dedicated performers, twirl in a trance, seeking a profound spiritual connection with the divine. Al-Ghouri Complex opens its doors to both kids and adults, providing an authentic and immersive encounter with this unique blend of dance and spirituality.
OUR 4 DAY CAIRO ITINERARY
The best time to visit Cairo with kids
For the optimal family-friendly Cairo experience, aim for a visit during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) seasons. These months bring in moderate temperatures, creating a comfortable setting for outdoor adventures and sightseeing with the little ones. Be sure to have a layer handy for the early mornings or as the sun goes down.
Another factor to consider when choosing the best time to visit Cairo with kids is the cultural and religious events that take place in the city. Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting, is an important time for Muslims in Cairo. While it can be a fascinating cultural experience, it may also affect the availability of certain activities and attractions. It’s important to research the specific dates of Ramadan and plan accordingly if you wish to visit during this time.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that Cairo can get quite crowded during major holidays and school breaks, both local and international. If you prefer a less crowded experience, it may be best to avoid visiting during these peak times. However, if you enjoy the festive atmosphere and don’t mind the crowds, visiting during holidays such as Eid al-Fitr or Christmas can be a memorable experience.
Remember to check the latest safety updates from your home country too.
Where to stay in Cairo with kids
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay in Cairo with kids, there are a few areas that are particularly family-friendly. One such area is Zamalek, an upscale island neighborhood located in the heart of Cairo. Zamalek offers a range of family-friendly hotels and apartments, as well as easy access to parks, playgrounds, and cultural attractions. It is also known for its wide range of restaurants and cafes.
Another great area to consider is Heliopolis, a residential district located northeast of downtown Cairo. Heliopolis has leafy streets, spacious villas, and family-friendly atmosphere. The area is home to several parks and green spaces, such as Al-Azhar Park, where kids can run around and enjoy outdoor activities. Heliopolis also offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels and serviced apartments.
Where NOT to stay in Cairo with kids
In our humble opinion, one area to avoid is the downtown area, particularly around Tahrir Square. While this area is historically significant and offers attractions like the Egyptian Museum, it can be crowded, chaotic, and not very child-friendly. The traffic can be overwhelming, making it difficult to navigate with young children. Additionally, the area is known for protests and demonstrations.
Another area to avoid when staying in Cairo with kids is the Giza district, specifically near the Pyramids of Giza. I talk about our visit to Giza here. While the pyramids are a must-visit attraction, the surrounding area can be quite hectic and crowded. The streets can be busy with traffic, cars, and animals. Moreover, the constant presence of street vendors and touts can be overwhelming for families.
Cairo has so many activities to do that this list could be much longer. Plan your days by area, navigating through Cairo traffic can be difficult so try group activities and limit movement to make the most of the time you have in Cairo.
After Cairo we headed up to Luxor next
For budget friendly travel, Go bus is a great option for moving around the country. With comfortable, modern buses winding through the cities, connecting cultural hubs like Cairo, Alexandria, Sharm El Sheikh, Luxor and more. You can read all about Go Bus here
Meet the author
Lisa is the founder of Boston Tribe Travels. She has lived and travelled abroad for the last 15 years, visited more than 30 countries and has done most of that with her husband and two children. As a full time travel family, they like to travel slow, worldschool and seek new adventures. From living in Borneo for 5 years to backpacking South America, Lisa shares a wealth of travel experience to empower more families to travel and learn together.
