With a booming population of 14.5 million residents, Cairo is not only the largest city in Egypt and the national capital, but it is the biggest metropolis in Africa and the ninth largest city in the world. And its size is only the beginning. Cairo is an amazing place filled with a mix of ancient history and modern urban life that rivals any major city in the world.

Cairo extends along the banks of the River Nile for about 25 miles (40 km). It is close to almost every pyramid in Egypt, most notably the Great Pyramids of Giza—one of the Seven Wonders of the World— located about 11 miles (18 km) from the city center.

Cairo offers remarkable insight into Egyptian culture, which has roots in Islamic, Muslim, Christian, and Jewish religions. The sprawling city is home to Islamic architecture, Muslim monuments, and famous buildings such as the Cairo Opera House. Along Cairo’s twisting streets, you will find countless churches, temples, tombs, art galleries, and the intriguing Egyptian Antiquities Museum which houses the mysterious treasures of King Tutankhamun. You'll also find unique shopping experiences in area markets and bazaars where you can browse the selection of exotic carpets, perfumes, and spices. As the ancient story 1001 Nights declares, “He who hath not seen Cairo hath not seen the world.”

Three Good Reasons to Study Arabic in Cairo   Learning Arabic in Egypt is ideal since the Egyptian dialect most closely resembles modern standard Arabic.             Cairo offers a unique opportunity to see one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza.             Cairo provides a fantastic mix of ancient mystique and modern sophistication. One day you can visit the 4,500-year-old Sphinx, and the next you can catch the latest show at the Cairo Opera House.

Cairo Weather Egypt basically has just two seasons: a hot summer from May to October and a mild winter from November to April. In summer, maximum temperatures in Cairo range from 90°F-96°F (32°C-35°C) and minimum temperatures range from 63°F-71°F (17°C-22°C). In winter, maximum temperatures range from 66°F-83°F (19°C-28°C) and minimum temperatures range from 47°F-56°F (9°C-14°C). Though humidity can be high in the summer, Cairo receives only one centimeter of annual precipitation.