Erbil to Cairo

Language

The official language of Iraq, where Erbil is located, is Arabic. However, Kurdish is widely spoken in the region. In Cairo, Egypt, the official language is Arabic.

Currency

The official currency of Iraq is the Iraqi dinar (IQD). The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian pound (EGP).

Distance

The distance between Erbil and Cairo is approximately 1,400 kilometers (870 miles).

How to Reach

You can reach Cairo from Erbil by plane, bus, or car.

• Plane: There are direct flights from Erbil International Airport (EBL) to Cairo International Airport (CAI). The flight takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
• Bus: There are no direct buses from Erbil to Cairo. You can take a bus from Erbil to Amman, Jordan, and then another bus from Amman to Cairo. The journey by bus takes around 24 hours.
• Car: You can drive from Erbil to Cairo in around 18 hours. However, this is a long and challenging drive, and it is not recommended for inexperienced drivers.

Expenses

The cost of your trip will vary depending on your travel style and preferences. Here is a rough estimate of what you can expect to spend:

• Plane ticket: $200-$400
• Bus ticket: $50-$100
• Gas: $100-$200
• Accommodation: $20-$50 per night
• Food: $10-$20 per day
• Activities: $20-$50 per day

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit Cairo is during the shoulder months (April-May and September-October) when the weather is mild. Summers in Cairo are hot and humid, while winters can be cold and rainy.

What to Eat

Cairo is a culinary paradise with a wide variety of dishes to choose from. Here are some of the must-try dishes:

• Koshary: A traditional Egyptian dish made with rice, lentils, chickpeas, pasta, and a spicy tomato sauce.
• Ful medames: A breakfast dish made with fava beans, olive oil, and spices.
• Molokhia: A green soup made with jute leaves, garlic, and coriander.
• Umm ali: A bread pudding with nuts and raisins.
• Kunafa: A sweet pastry made with shredded filo dough and syrup.

Where to Go

Cairo is home to a wealth of historical and cultural attractions. Here are some of the must-visit places:

• The Pyramids of Giza: One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
• The Egyptian Museum: Home to a vast collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts.
• Khan el-Khalili: A bustling market with a maze of shops selling souvenirs, spices, and jewelry.
• The Nile River: Take a boat ride down the Nile River to see the sights of Cairo from a different perspective.
• The Al-Azhar Mosque: One of the oldest and most important mosques in the world.

FAQ

Do I need a visa to travel to Egypt?

Yes, most nationalities require a visa to enter Egypt. You can obtain a visa upon arrival at the airport or in advance from an Egyptian embassy or consulate.

Is it safe to travel to Cairo?

Cairo is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty crime.

What is the best way to get around Cairo?

The best way to get around Cairo is by metro or taxi. The metro is affordable and efficient, but it does not reach all parts of the city. Taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive.

What should I wear when visiting Cairo?

Cairo is a conservative city, so it is important to dress modestly. Men should wear long pants and a shirt that covers their shoulders. Women should wear long skirts or pants and a top that covers their shoulders and midriff.

What is the local currency of Cairo?

The local currency of Cairo is the Egyptian pound (EGP).