7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Cairo

Cairo, the bustling capital of Egypt, is not only a hub for history and culture but also a base for digital nomads who have chosen this vibrant city as their temporary home. While the city itself offers endless exploration opportunities, sometimes a weekend getaway is just what one needs to recharge. From popular tourist destinations to hidden gems, there are plenty of places within reach for a short break. Here are seven fun weekend getaways for those living the digital nomad life in Cairo.

Alexandria

Just a few hours away from Cairo, Alexandria offers a refreshing escape with its Mediterranean charm. Known as "The Pearl of the Mediterranean," this coastal city boasts a rich history, beautiful beaches, and a more laid-back atmosphere compared to Cairo. Visitors can explore the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern architectural wonder and a tribute to the ancient Library of Alexandria, stroll along the Corniche, or delve into history at the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa. Seafood here is a must-try, with many restaurants offering the freshest catch.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Alexandria from Cairo is by train, which takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. There are frequent trains available from Ramses Station in Cairo.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to visit the Montazah Palace Gardens for a peaceful retreat amidst lush greenery and historical buildings.

Where to Stay: The Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefano offers luxurious accommodations with stunning sea views, while the historic Steigenberger Cecil Hotel charms with its old-world elegance.

Where to Eat: The Fish Market restaurant is renowned for its seafood platters and offers a picturesque view of the Mediterranean Sea.

Siwa Oasis

For a truly unique experience, venture into the Western Desert to Siwa Oasis. This secluded paradise is known for its Berber culture, palm groves, and crystal-clear springs. Visitors can explore the ancient Oracle Temple of Amun, where Alexander the Great was declared a god, or take a dip in Cleopatra's Pool. The landscape of the Great Sand Sea surrounding Siwa is perfect for desert adventures like sandboarding and 4x4 safaris.

How to Get There: Reaching Siwa can be an adventure in itself. The most common way is to take a bus or a private car from Cairo, which can take around 8 hours.

Travel Tip: Make sure to experience a traditional Siwan homestay or spend a night under the stars in a desert camp.

Where to Stay: Adrère Amellal is an eco-lodge that blends seamlessly with the natural environment, offering a serene and luxurious stay.

Where to Eat: Abdo Restaurant provides a taste of local Siwan cuisine, with dishes made from fresh, organic ingredients.

Fayoum Oasis

Fayoum Oasis is a natural wonder just a short drive from Cairo. Known for its lush agricultural lands, water wheels, and ancient ruins, it's a perfect spot for history buffs and nature lovers. The oasis is home to Wadi El-Rayan, a protected area with two lakes and a stunning waterfall. Birdwatchers will delight in the variety of species found here. Additionally, the nearby Wadi El-Hitan (Valley of the Whales) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can see fossil remains of prehistoric whales.

How to Get There: Fayoum is about a 1.5-hour drive from Cairo, making it an easy destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to see the pottery workshops in the village of Tunis, where you can also try your hand at pottery-making.

Where to Stay: Kom El Dikka Agri Lodge offers a rustic yet comfortable stay, with opportunities to engage in farm activities.

Where to Eat: Tunis Village is home to several local eateries where you can enjoy traditional Egyptian dishes with a view of the lake.

Wadi Degla Protectorate

For those seeking an outdoor adventure close to Cairo, Wadi Degla Protectorate is a hidden gem. This desert valley is a natural haven for hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. The protectorate's rugged terrain and unique limestone formations make it a great place for photography and wildlife spotting, with a chance to see foxes, gazelles, and various bird species.

How to Get There: Wadi Degla is located just outside of Maadi, a suburb of Cairo, and is easily accessible by car or taxi in about 30 minutes.

Travel Tip: Visit during the cooler months from October to April for the most comfortable outdoor experience.

Where to Stay: While there are no accommodations within Wadi Degla, the nearby Maadi district offers a range of hotels and guesthouses.

Where to Eat: After a day of exploration, head to Road 9 in Maadi, where you'll find a variety of cafes and restaurants catering to diverse tastes.

Nuweiba

Nuweiba is a coastal town in the eastern part of the Sinai Peninsula, offering a laid-back atmosphere and stunning Red Sea views. It's a paradise for divers and snorkelers, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. The town is also a gateway to the Colored Canyon, a striking natural formation perfect for hiking. For a cultural experience, visit the local Bedouin community and learn about their traditional way of life.

How to Get There: The journey to Nuweiba from Cairo typically involves a bus ride to Sharm El-Sheikh followed by a connecting bus to Nuweiba, totaling around 7-8 hours.

Travel Tip: Take a camel safari at sunset for an unforgettable experience along the shores of the Red Sea.

Where to Stay: Habiba Beach Lodge offers eco-friendly beachfront accommodations with opportunities for community interaction and sustainable tourism.

Where to Eat: Habiba Organic Farm serves meals prepared with fresh, organic produce grown on-site, providing a true farm-to-table experience.

Dahshur

Dahshur is a royal necropolis located in the desert on the west bank of the Nile River. It's less crowded than Giza, allowing for a more tranquil exploration of its ancient pyramids, including the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, which you can enter. The area is steeped in history and offers a glimpse into the incredible engineering feats of the Old Kingdom.

How to Get There: Dahshur is about an hour's drive from Cairo. The best way to visit is by hiring a taxi or joining a guided tour.

Travel Tip: Bring a flashlight if you plan to venture inside the Red Pyramid; the interior passages are dimly lit.

Where to Stay: There are no accommodations in Dahshur itself, but nearby Saqqara has options like the Sakkara Country Club, which offers a peaceful retreat.

Where to Eat: Enjoy a meal at the Sakkara Palm Club, where you can dine with views of the Saqqara Step Pyramid.

El Fayoum City

El Fayoum City, the capital of the Fayoum Governorate, is a destination that blends history, culture, and nature. The city is known for its vibrant bazaars, historic temples, and proximity to natural attractions like Lake Qarun. Visitors can also explore the nearby Hawara and Lahun pyramids or take a birdwatching trip around the lake, which is a haven for migratory birds.

How to Get There: El Fayoum City is approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours by car from Cairo, making it an accessible destination for a weekend trip.

Travel Tip: Visit the Qarun Palace, an architectural marvel that once served as a hunting lodge for King Farouk.

Where to Stay: Helnan Auberge Fayoum offers comfortable accommodations with a touch of history, as it was once a royal hunting lodge.

Where to Eat: For a taste of local cuisine, try El Solh Restaurant in the city center, known for its delicious grilled fish and traditional Egyptian dishes.

These weekend getaways offer a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion, perfect for digital nomads looking to explore beyond the city limits of Cairo. Whether you're drawn to the sea, the desert, or historical sites, Egypt's diverse landscapes provide an ideal backdrop for your next escape.