🌳 We’re saying goodbye to summer, and hello to a breezy fall. This time of the year, we’re filled with an inexplicable urge to go out, touch some grass, and bask in the mild warmth of the September sun before we find ourselves wearing five different layers and humming along to Mariah’s seasonal hits. But where do you go in Cairo when all you’re looking for is vast greenery?

PARKS AND RECREATION-

#1- AL ZOHRIYA GARDEN: Looking for a spot to enjoy your next novel or a quiet outing with loved ones? Overlooking the Nile in Zamalek, this serene garden offers a stunning, up-close view of the Cairo Tower. Built in the late 1800s during the reign of Khedive Ismail, Al Zohriya is popular for its calm atmosphere, towering trees, and rare plants — with some over 150 years old.

OPENING HOURS: The garden is open from 8am to 11pm daily, though opening hours may vary depending on the season.

TICKET PRICE: Admission is EGP 10 per person.

LOCATION: You’ll find Al Zohriya Garden at Al Burg Street, Zamalek.

#2- AL HORREYA GARDEN: Just a short walk away from Al Zohriya, Al Horreya is situated between the Qasr El Nil bridge and the Cairo Opera House. This garden was also founded during the reign of Khedive Ismail, and is one of Cairo’s most famous public gardens. It overlooks the Cairo Tower, the Nile, and the Opera House. The Garden features a stunning collection of rare plants and statues, including one of Ahmed Shawky. It’s a destination perfect for families, but it tends to get too crowded during public holidays.

OPENING HOURS: The garden is open from 9am to 10:30pm daily.

TICKET PRICE: Admission is EGP 20 per person.

LOCATION: You’ll find Al Horreya Garden at El Gezira Park, Zamalek.

#3- THE AQUARIUM GROTTO GARDEN: Yet another part of Khedive Ismail’s legacy and island favorite, the Aquarium Grotto has long been featured in films and series across Egyptian television history. If you’re a frequenter of Cairo Flea Market, you’ll be no stranger to this graden. Beyond the greenery and aquatic design, the graden offers a mystical experience as you tread its paths past water features and rare fish. It’s a great place for a long walk, or to simply sit and enjoy the sun — often alongside art students seeking inspiration.

OPENING HOURS: The garden is open from 9am to 5:30pm daily, though opening hours may vary depending on the season.

TICKET PRICE: Admission is EGP 5 per person.

LOCATION: You’ll find the Aquarium Grotto at El Gabalaya Street, Zamalek.

#4- OBOUR GARDEN: A short walk from the Grotto, this small park sits right on the Nile. Its towering trees and close proximity to the water set it apart. There are plenty of tables, chairs, and a café where you can enjoy a cup of tea or your beverage of choice.

OPENING HOURS: The Garden is open from 9am to 10pm daily.

TICKET PRICE: Admission is EGP 20 per person.

LOCATION: You’ll find the Aquarium Grotto at El Gabalaya Street, Zamalek.

#5- MAZHAR BOTANIC GARDEN: If you’re a West Cairo resident, you might have heard of the Mazhar Garden. Founded in the ‘50s by late artist Ahmed Mazhar, this garden is one of Giza’s most beautiful, spanning a vast area and housing a large collection of rare plants. Building on his father’s legacy, Shehab Mazhar has been adding rare plants and flowers from Egypt and beyond, making it an unmissable destination for both experienced botanists and those with a penchant for all that is beautiful.

OPENING HOURS: The garden is open from Saturday to Thursday, from 9am to 4pm.

PRO TIP: You need to book your visit in advance by contacting the garden’s administration.

LOCATION: You’ll find Mazhar Botanic Garden on the 26th of July Corridor, Giza.

#6- FAMILY PARK: A prominent New Cairo landmark, Family Park spans a large area and offers a 360-recreational experience, from dining to rides, theatres, and special areas designated to art exhibitions and cultural events. Families can spend an entire day enjoying the greenery and plenty of diverse activities for both children and adults alike.

OPENING HOURS: The park is open daily from 9am to 10pm.

TICKET PRICE: Admission is EGP 30 per person. You can head to the park’s website to check prices for other activities.

LOCATION: You’ll find Family Park on Suez Road, New Cairo.

#7- MERRYLAND PARK: Heliopolis’ beating heart, Merryland is every resident’s muse, a sanctuary for those looking for a place to enjoy nature or get their 10k steps in. Merryland also hosts several workshops and activities, such as wood painting, and has several cafés and restaurants. You’ll typically find athletic Cairenes running around the park — both inside and outside its perimeter.

OPENING HOURS: The park is open from 9am to 12am daily.

TICKET PRICE: Admission is EGP 20 per person — EGP 30 on weekends and public holidays.

LOCATION: You’ll find Merryland Park in El-Montazah, Heliopolis.

#8- AL AZHAR PARK: Filled to the brim with rich history, and designed with Islamic gardens as its inspiration, Al Azhar Park is one that needs no introduction. An expansive park, it has been awarded several accolades, being recognized among the top 60 public spaces in the world. Al Azhar is a haven for Cairenes seeking a green escape and a destination for family outings. The park includes restaurants like Al Khan by Granita, offering stunning views of the city.

OPENING HOURS: The park is open from 9am to 10pm daily.

TICKET PRICE: Admission is EGP 35 per person — EGP 40 on weekends and public holidays.

LOCATION: You’ll find Al Azhar Park on Salah Salem Road.

#9- CHILD’S PARK: A popular park among Nasr City dwellers, the garden houses the Nasr City Public Library alongside its sprawling green spaces. You’ll find amusement rides, as well as many popular dining destinations and cafés such as Sushi & Co., Cinnabon, Caizo, TBS, and Dina Farms.

OPENING HOURS: The Garden is open from 10am to 10:30pm daily.

TICKET PRICE: Admission is EGP 20 per person. The food court does not require a ticket and has its own designated gate.

LOCATION: You’ll find Child’s Park on Makram Ebeid Street, Nasr City.

#10- ZED PARK: In just a short amount of time, Zed Park has cemented itself as one of Sheikh Zayed and October’s major landmarks. A famous recreational destination for those who want to spend a full day out, the park offers no shortage of greenery and breeze. Concerts and other events happen on the regular, and activities range from amusement rides to a variety of dining destinations.

OPENING HOURS: Zed Park is open from 3pm to 11pm daily, and Thursdays and Fridays from 2pm to 12am, though opening hours may vary depending on the season.

TICKET PRICE: Admission is EGP 250 per person, and you can book through the park’s website.

LOCATION: You’ll find ZED Park in El Horreya Road, Sheikh Zayed.

UPCOMING OPENINGS ON OUR RADAR-

#1- GIZA ZOO AND ORMAN GARDEN: Undergoing a comprehensive renovation plan since 2023, the Giza Zoo is one of the oldest and most historic parks in Africa. The plan aims to see it become a world-class zoo by improving enclosures and updating pathways while preserving its historical landmarks. The redevelopment plan will also see it connected with the Orman Garden via a tunnel, allowing visitors to enjoy a fully integrated experience.

WHEN TO MARK YOUR CALENDAR: A tentative opening date is slated for this month, but there’s a chance it might be delayed.

#2- AL FUSTAT PARK: Also currently undergoing redevelopment and expansion since 2021, Al Fustat is set to transform into a world-class tourist destination and cultural hub in the heart of Old Cairo. It’s expected to span over 500 acres, and will include entertainment, hospitality, and commercial areas — as well as a natural lake and verdant hills.

WHEN TO MARK YOUR CALENDAR: Finishing touches are being added, with completion expected later this September, according to Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly’s recent announcement.

#3- AZBAKEYA GARDEN: Part of the government’s historical revival initiative, work on the Azbakeya garden is currently underway. The plan includes redeveloping the garden while preserving its historical essence and reviving the fountain, lake, and open-air theatre. An opening date, however, is yet to be announced.

Looking to double down and capitalize on the lush gardens and beautiful weather? Check out our guide to a perfect picnic in Cairo.

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