Things To Do
in Al Qays

Al Qays is a small town in Egypt, known for its rich history and vibrant local culture. Nestled along the banks of the Nile, it offers stunning views and a taste of authentic Egyptian life. The town is characterized by its friendly locals and traditional markets that attract visitors looking for an immersive experience.

With a blend of historical sites and natural beauty, Al Qays is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the History and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the ancient ruins of the nearby temple, where you can learn about the history of Al Qays.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the local market, where you can shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll along the Nile to witness the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Head to a nearby nature reserve for a guided bird-watching tour.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch by the river, followed by some leisure time to relax and take photos.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a traditional live music performance at a local café.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
Coffee$1.50
🚕Taxi Ride (within town)$2
🛒1L of Milk$0.80
🍞Loaf of Bread$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural experiences
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Affordable cost of living
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Summer heat can be intense
  • Language barrier may exist in some areas
  • "صباح الخير" - Good morning
  • "شكرا" - Thank you
  • "من فضلك" - Please
  • "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "كم السعر؟" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Al Qays

Visit one of these nice places.

The Nile River

Capture breathtaking sunsets and reflections along the tranquil banks of the Nile.

Ancient Ruins

The remnants of ancient temples provide a stunning backdrop for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Local Market

Vibrant colors and bustling activity make the local market a perfect spot for candid shots of daily life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Al Qays

Al Qays offers a delightful culinary experience, with dishes that reflect the rich heritage of Egyptian cuisine.

Al Qays Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Koshari

A popular Egyptian dish made from rice, lentils, pasta, and topped with a spicy tomato sauce.

Must-Try!

Molokhia

A traditional soup made from jute leaves, often served with rice and chicken or rabbit.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Al Qays Market

A bustling market where locals sell fresh produce, spices, and street food, perfect for a casual lunch.

Street Vendors

Try delicious grilled meats and falafel from street vendors scattered throughout the town.

Climate Guide

Weather

Al Qays experiences a hot desert climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F), while winters are cooler, averaging around 15°C (59°F). The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when temperatures are moderate and pleasant.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Visitors should dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas.

Greetings

A handshake is a common greeting among locals; for women, a nod may be more appropriate.

Respecting Traditions

Be respectful of local customs and traditions, particularly during religious holidays and ceremonies.

Safety Guide

Safety

Al Qays is generally safe for tourists, but it's prudent to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated areas at night. Ensure you have emergency numbers handy and familiarize yourself with local customs to avoid misunderstandings.

Tipping in Al Qays

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants; small change is appreciated for street vendors and service workers.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are accepted in many places, but carrying cash is recommended for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures are pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Expect high temperatures that can be challenging for outdoor activities; plan for early morning or late afternoon excursions.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and less humidity create a comfortable environment for exploring.

Winter

Mild weather makes this a great time for sightseeing, but evenings can get chilly, so pack accordingly.

Nightlife Guide

Al Qays at Night

Al Qays has a laid-back nightlife scene, primarily focused on local cafés and restaurants. Many places offer live music and traditional performances, providing a cultural experience after sundown. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to connect with locals and fellow travelers.

Hiking in Al Qays

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Qasr

A popular hiking destination, offering scenic views of the surrounding countryside and the Nile River.

Wadi Al Qays

A picturesque trail that winds through valleys and hills, perfect for nature lovers and photography.

Airports

How to reach Al Qays by plane.

Cairo International Airport

Located approximately 200 kilometers from Al Qays, this major airport connects Egypt to numerous international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Al Qays is quite walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance from each other. The town's layout encourages walking, making it easy to explore the local market and riverside without needing transportation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Farmers

Many residents are engaged in agriculture, benefiting from the fertile lands along the Nile.

Artisans

A significant number of locals are skilled artisans, creating handmade crafts and traditional goods for sale.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is immensely popular among locals, with many people playing in parks and fields.

Wrestling

Traditional wrestling matches are also common, often held during local festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Al Qays is generally light, with most locals walking or using bicycles for transportation. Public transportation options include mini-buses and taxis, which are affordable and readily available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Al Qays.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes are vegetarian-friendly, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients to avoid hidden meat products.

Gluten-Free

While gluten-free options may be limited, dishes like rice and salads are typically safe choices.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Al Qays is limited, with basic services available in local clinics. For more serious medical needs, it's advisable to travel to larger cities like Cairo, where hospitals have better facilities. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Egypt

Read more in our Egypt 2025 Travel Guide.

Egypt Travel Guide