The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

For those who find it difficult to stay at home, please stay safe by going out with a limited group of six people or less, and stick to public, open-air locations that encourage social distancing and responsible gatherings. Here are five safe outdoor activities for your leisure time…

Wadi Degla Protectorate

Located on the outskirts of Maadi, this natural reserve, and protectorate, full of mountains, valleys, vast empty spaces and sandy corners is so incredibly secluded yet easy to reach.  It’s the perfect place to be out and enjoy the peace and quiet of Wadi Degla away from crowded streets and busy venues.

Open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Tickets range from 5 LE to 20 LE.

Nile Feluccas

Sailboats, AKA feluccas, are an easy way to escape to a quieter and calmer atmosphere in Cairo. They are certainly a trusted option to enjoy a gathering privately and remotely all while catching a fresh river breeze and enjoying views of nature. Only one sailor will be on duty, and they usually keep their distance.

Feluccas mainly operate in Zamalek, Garden City and Maadi Corniche from early morning to late evening. Prices range from 100 LE to 200 LE per hour. 

Sporting Clubs

Gezira Club, Yacht Club, Heliopolis Club, Ahly Club, or Shooting Club; these are only a few examples of amazing family-friendly sporting clubs in Cairo that have as many facilities as they do open-air spaces. Strolls in the park or a meal at the garden or on roof restaurants are all safe options that are available at most sporting clubs.

The clubs are usually open from 7:00 AM to midnight. Tickets range from 50 LE to 100 LE for non-members.

The Pyramids

With Egyptian friends and family, tickets are so very affordable, and there are hundreds of secluded magical locations to choose from. You can go for a picnic at Sakkara pyramids, a casual get together at the Giza complex, or a middle-of-nowhere hideout in Dahshour with a select few. The opportunities are endless; you won’t want to leave! Plus, nowadays, there are certainly more empty spaces than not at whichever spots you choose. Just make sure to steer clear from vendors and tour guides and, obviously, no going into tombs and pyramids as it certainly defeats the purpose of this whole venture.

Open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Tickets range from 10 LE to 100 LE.

The Aquarium Grotto Garden

Located in the heart of Zamalek Island, the beautiful Aquarium Grotto Garden, although a popular peaceful space for lovers, is just as family-friendly and full of curiosities and adventure. Try to stay away from parts of the caves, which may be less open-air and accordingly less safe during the pandemic, but there are stairs, allowing you to climb all over them and enjoy views of greenery and birds chirping and flying all over the place. Certainly a spot to bring your picnic basket!

Open from 9:00 AM to 4:30. Tickets range from 5 LE to 20 LE.