Transportation within Cairo - Walking

One positive aspect of Cairo’s absurdly packed layout is that almost everything in the city is within easy walking distance of Tahrir Sq. Though it may take more time, you can see all the sights of Islamic Cairo, the downtown areas, and Roda and Zamalek Islands without once using mechanized transport (an attractive proposition con- . sidering Cairo traffic and driving habits). Many argue that walking is the only way to see the city; on foot, you will indubitably catch many fascinating glimpses of Cairo life which would go unseen from a bus or car. You will also get your shoes mucked up; many city streets are strewn with garbage and random piles of sawdust.

Traffic is almost always abundant: the only times the streets are empty are during Ramadan and important football (i.e., soccer) matches. After a Cairo team has won a football match, venture out onto the streets at your peril. (Thousands of jubilant Cairenes screech recklessly around the city, brandishing lance-like flags, honking their horns, and flattening unwary pedestrians.) Friday, the Islamic day of prayer, is the least crowded day of the week. Cars reign in Cairo; drivers expect pedestrians to look after themselves. Since pedestrians must often take to the streets, it is wise to iace oncoming traffic and heed the horns of oncoming cars. A long, uninterrupted honk usually indicates that the driver is either unwilling or unable to swerve. Do not be alarmed if you are lightly pushed or tugged by Egyptians attempting to stay alive. Ignore traffic lights; everyone else does, Cairenes warn against being too careful when you cross a street because if you stop short or break into a run you’ll upset the rhythm of the drivers speeding towards you, and they just might hit you. Biking is not a viable option in Cairo for those who wish to live.