The Nile River, the lifeblood of the Egyptian civilization, runs through the city. Located southwest of the city is Giza, home to the famous pyramids. Due to the threats posed by Islamic extremists, heightened security measures are in effect. Police units often conduct random identity checks. Roadblocks and checkpoints are common, especially on bridges and in major intersections at night.
Security is tight at hotels, museums, banks, theaters and other tourist sites.
Tourist transportation is also a designated target. Security Tips Exercise caution around potential terrorist targets, including tourist sites, banks, cinemas, Israeli institutions, police stations and military facilities. Islamic Extremists Islamic militants have spent more than 20 years trying to overthrow the government to install an Islamic regime. Although much of their activity takes place in southern Egypt, attacks have taken place in Cairo. In April 1996, Islamic Group gunmen opened fire on a group of Greek tourists outside the Europa Hotel.