Top family-friendly activities in Cairo

Picture a destination with majestic sandy pyramids and delightful grandmothers and friendly aunts ready to entertain you at every corner.

Welcome to Cairo, where visiting with children often feels like you’re waving a huge sign that says: “Dear people of Egypt, please look after us!”

Is Cairo suitable for children?

The charm of Egypt’s capital lies not in its scarce open spaces, but in the lively atmosphere and warmth of its residents and street animals; in the vibrant sights, sounds, and smells. (Hello to the dogs, cats, and maybe even weasels!)

Cairo is more manageable with tweens and teens. Public spaces and buildings often lack pedestrian safety, so toddlers require constant supervision.

Nursing mothers on the go can utilize the Metro’s women-only carriages. On the streets, strollers are impractical due to uneven curbs; a durable baby carrier is a far better choice for infants and toddlers. Walking reins might also be a wise option.

Public toilets in Cairo are often nonexistent or untrustworthy. However, restaurants are accommodating when it comes to changing diapers. The upscale malls in Maadi, Nasr City, and New Cairo do offer facilities for diaper changes and nursing.

Egyptians are openly affectionate, often pinching cheeks or giving kisses to any child they see. When leaving a shop, it’s common for your child to walk out with a handful of lemons and lollipops gifted by the cashier or a friendly customer.

What are the best spots in Cairo for kids?

The area surrounding the Citadel is perfect for families. Parents can explore a museum or mosque (or three), while kids enjoy playing 'spot the Pyramids' among the high-rises or running through the spacious medieval courtyards.

Nearby, Al-Azhar Park offers a great place for kids to run around (or, inshallah, nap) and have a picnic before heading to the vibrant Khan El-Khalili market in the evening for a sensory feast and a tanoura dance performance.

Top activities for families with babies and toddlers in Cairo

Visit the parks

With Giza Zoo closed for renovations until early 2025, Al-Azhar Park is the go-to spot for greenery near Downtown. If you're in New Cairo or Nasr City, check out Family Park. Both parks feature large, open spaces and sandy play areas, but Family Park wins with its mini zoo and rapids ride. Don’t forget to bring your own snacks.

Find a family wellness escape

For a peaceful retreat from Cairo’s hustle and bustle, visit Osana Wellness in Maadi. It offers a restaurant with vegan choices, a workspace for parents (while the kids are entertained), yoga and meditation classes for all ages, a serene garden, and a special area for babies.

Top activities for kids in Cairo

Get your hands involved

For a mix of nature and interactive fun, visit Woods Artground at Merryland Park in Heliopolis, where your children can engage in various activities such as painting, gardening, pottery, and more.

Visit the Pyramids

If your kids haven't yet learned about ancient Egypt in school, they soon will. The Pyramids are a must-see, and they’ll get some exercise in the desert while spotting camels too.

Be cautious of vendors offering “freebies” to children when you’re not paying attention; they often expect payment from the unsuspecting parents afterward.

Get up close with mummies

If you're visiting Cairo before February 2024, you can explore the Grand Egyptian Museum, which has temporarily opened for Tutankhamun: The Immersive Exhibition. This exhibition features a large hall where the story of Tutankhamun unfolds through a captivating 360-degree audio-visual experience.

While there aren’t specific attractions for kids, they will likely enjoy running on the illuminated floors and bouncing on giant (animated) lily pads. Note: the museum advises against children under six attending, possibly due to sensory overload from the lights.

Spinning around like a record, baby...

Experience a traditional tanoura performance, where whirling dervishes dazzle with vibrant colors at Wikala al-Ghouri in Old Cairo. Shows begin at 7pm or 7:30pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays (arrive by 6pm to grab your tickets). There’s often a playful character among the performers who is sure to entertain the kids.

Top activities for teens and tweens in Cairo

Kayak or paddleboard on the Nile

For a truly unique adventure, try kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on the Nile. Consider Zamalek Kayak or Nile Kayak Club if you prefer staying horizontal. You can also check out Very Nile, a charity that regularly organizes volunteer river clean-ups by kayak.

For the thrill-seekers, Cairow offers SUP sessions for those willing to embrace the river. Follow this with a delicious sunset meal on a private felucca.

Play backgammon with locals

Take your teens to any traditional ahwa (street coffee house) in Downtown or Old Cairo, like Fishawy, the oldest in the city. Order a drink and ask the waiter for a backgammon board (called “tawla”) or dominoes (“domino”). Relax for the evening as your child(ren) learn a new game with new friends. Alternatively, join in yourself and start a holiday tally. The overall winner gets a plate of basbousa (syrup-soaked semolina cake)!

Travel tips

• Purchase a multi-use Metro card at any station; one card covers the entire family.

• Consider getting a local SIM card and data plan if you plan to use Uber.

• Bring your own water bottle. Since tap water isn’t safe to drink unfiltered, buy a large (19L) bottle to keep at your accommodation for refills.

• Cairo has many pharmacies that are open late and can help with basic medical needs for your child or direct you to a specialist.