Cairo tours

Here is a selection of the best guided tours in Cairo; 1) Full Day Tour to Giza Pyramids and the National Museum 2) Cairo and Giza Two Day tour 3) Egyptian Museum, Islamic and Coptic Cairo Private Day Tour 4) Magic of Cairo (Private Full Day City Tour) 5) Discover Saqqara, an ancient burial ground of Egyptian royalty

Cairo, the vibrant capital of Egypt, is a city rich in history, culture, and architectural wonders. Here are some must-do things in Cairo: Visit the iconic Giza Plateau to see the Pyramids of Giza, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure. Don't miss the Sphinx nearby. Explore the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, home to an extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun. Khan El Khalili Bazaar: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Khan El Khalili, one of the oldest bazaars in the Middle East. Shop for souvenirs, spices, jewelry, and traditional crafts. Visit the Saladin Citadel, a medieval Islamic fortification that offers panoramic views of Cairo. Inside the citadel, explore the impressive Mohamed Ali Mosque. Wander through the historic streets of Islamic Cairo, where you'll find landmarks like the Sultan Hassan Mosque, Al-Rifa'i Mosque, and the historic Al-Azhar Mosque. Explore the Coptic Quarter, home to historic Christian sites such as the Hanging Church (Saint Virgin Mary's Coptic Orthodox Church) and the Coptic Museum. Take a stroll through the narrow streets of Old Cairo (Misr Al-Qadima), discovering historic architecture, local markets, and hidden gems. Enjoy a leisurely cruise on the Nile River, whether during the day or in the evening. Some cruises include dinner and entertainment. Relax in Al-Azhar Park, a beautifully landscaped park that offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of Cairo. The park provides stunning views of the city. Visit Mokattam Hill to see the Cave Church and gain insights into the unique community of "Garbage City," known for recycling and waste management. Experience the sound and light show at the Pyramids of Giza for a dramatic presentation of Egypt's history against the backdrop of the ancient monuments. Remember to check the opening hours of attractions, respect local customs, and consider hiring a ToursByLocals guide to enhance your understanding of the historical and cultural significance of the sites. Cairo is a city that seamlessly combines ancient history with the vibrant energy of a modern metropolis.

The cost of a private tour in Cairo can vary depending on several factors, including the duration of the tour, the specific attractions or areas you wish to visit, the level of customization, and the number of people in your group. Additionally, prices may vary among different guides, as they set their own prices with ToursByLocals. The cost of a private tour in Cairo typically ranges from around $195 - $400. It's important to note that each guide sets their own prices, which is why there can be a large variation between one guide and another. When planning a private tour, be sure to read the 'what's included' and 'what's extra' sections of the tour page. If you don't quite see what you are looking for, you can send a message to the guide and discuss customising a tour to meet your specific needs and budget.

Here are some of the top tours in Cairo, each highly rated with over 45 reviews! 1) Layover Private Tour from Cairo Airport 2) Giza Pyramids, Sphinx & Antiquity Museum Private Day Tour 3) Giza Pyramids & Sphinx Private Tour 4) Full-Day Private Cairo City Tour 5) Full Day Private Pyramids Tour

ToursByLocals guides set their own prices in order to compensate themselves fairly for the hard work they do and the time spent preparing for the private tour as well as delivering the tour itself. Therefore there is no expectation for ToursByLocals customers to tip their guide. Writing a review after the tour is a great way to show your appreciation to your guide as it helps them receive more inquiries in the future.

Guided tours are perfect for getting in-depth knowledge about the history, culture, and significance of the places you're visiting. If you're interested in learning about Cairo from a local expert, a guided tour can be very informative, and an excellent use of your vacation time. Whilst English is spoken by some working in the touristy areas, a guided tour can help bridge the communication gap and ensure you don't miss out on important information. If you have limited time in Cairo and want to see as much as possible in a short period, a private guided tour can be efficient. That way you are not restricted by a set schedule and can prioritise what you want to see in the time you have. Although private tours are generally more expensive than a group tour, they’re remarkably value: a good guide can provide you with insider tips, hidden gems, and local recommendations that will help you avoid tourist traps or overpriced places during your stay. ToursByLocals guided tours can be tailored to specific interests, such as art, history, or food. If you have a niche interest, a specialised tour can enhance your experience.

Yes, you can hire a tour guide in Cairo. Hiring a tour guide can be a great way to enhance your travel experience and gain valuable insights into the local culture, history, and attractions. ToursByLocals has over 30 local guides in Cairo who are local experts and offer a wide range of customizable private tours. They will work with you to customize an itinerary based on your interests and preferences. Private tour guides can provide a more personalized experience and offer flexibility in terms of scheduling and activities.

Cairo's strategic location provides easy access to various historical and cultural destinations for day trips. Here are some recommended day trip options from Cairo: Memphis and Saqqara: Visit the ancient city of Memphis, the capital of ancient Egypt, and explore the open-air museum with statues and artifacts. Then, head to Saqqara to see the Step Pyramid of Djoser, one of the earliest pyramid structures. Dahshur: Discover the Red Pyramid and Bent Pyramid in Dahshur, less crowded than the Giza Plateau. The Bent Pyramid is known for its distinctive shape. Wadi Natrun: Explore the monastic sites of Wadi Natrun, an ancient Christian monastic complex with several well-preserved Coptic monasteries. Fayoum Oasis: Take a day trip to the Fayoum Oasis, southwest of Cairo. Visit the ancient city of Karanis, Qarun Lake, and the UNESCO-listed Wadi El Hitan (Valley of the Whales). El Minya: El Minya, located along the Nile River, is known for its archaeological sites, including the Beni Hasan Tombs and the Tell Amarna archaeological site. Rosetta (Rashid): Explore the historic city of Rosetta, known for the Rosetta Stone. Visit the Rosetta National Museum and the Qaitbay Citadel. Suez Canal: Take a trip to the Suez Canal and the city of Suez. Enjoy views of the canal and learn about its history and significance. Ismailia: Located on the west bank of the Suez Canal, Ismailia offers a pleasant escape with parks, gardens, and the Ismailia Museum. Ras Sudr: For a relaxing day by the Red Sea, consider a trip to Ras Sudr. Enjoy the beach and water activities in this coastal town. When planning a day trip, consider transportation options, travel time, and the specific attractions you'd like to explore. Some destinations may be best explored with a guided tour, while others can be reached independently. Always check the opening hours of attractions and any travel restrictions that may be in place.

The ideal duration for a tour of Cairo depends on your interests, the pace at which you like to explore, and the specific attractions you want to visit. However, many travellers find that spending around 4 to 5 days in Cairo allows for a comprehensive experience, covering major historical and cultural sites. Here's a suggested itinerary: Day 1: Giza Plateau Morning: Explore the Pyramids of Giza, including the Great Pyramid, Pyramid of Khafre, and Pyramid of Menkaure. Afternoon: Visit the Sphinx and the Valley Temple. Evening: Attend the Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids for a dramatic presentation of Egypt's history. Day 2: Cairo's Museums Morning: Visit the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, home to a vast collection of ancient artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun. Afternoon: Explore the Islamic Art Museum, Coptic Museum, or other specialized museums based on your interests. Day 3: Old Cairo Morning: Visit the Citadel of Saladin, including the Mohamed Ali Mosque. Afternoon: Explore Islamic Cairo, including the Sultan Hassan Mosque, Al-Rifa'i Mosque, and the historic Al-Azhar Mosque. Evening: Stroll through the vibrant Khan El Khalili Bazaar. Day 4: Coptic Cairo Morning: Explore the Coptic Quarter, visiting the Hanging Church, Coptic Museum, and the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus. Afternoon: Visit the Babylon Fortress and the Church of St. George. Evening: Enjoy dinner in one of the local restaurants in the area. Day 5: Day Trip or Additional Explorations Option 1: Take a day trip to nearby attractions such as Memphis, Saqqara, or the Red Pyramid in Dahshur. Option 2: Explore any remaining sites in Cairo that you haven't visited, such as Al-Azhar Park or the Roda Island. This itinerary provides a balance between exploring ancient history, experiencing Cairo's rich culture, and enjoying its vibrant atmosphere. Keep in mind that these are general suggestions, and you can tailor the itinerary based on your preferences and the time you have available. If you have more time, you can delve deeper into specific areas of interest or participate in cultural activities.

The cost of a 7-day trip to Cairo from the United States can vary widely based on several factors, including your travel style, accommodation preferences, dining choices, activities, and the time of year you plan to visit. Here are some general considerations: Flights: The cost of flights from the US to Cairo can vary significantly depending on factors such as the departure city, time of booking, airline, and class of service. On average, you might expect to pay anywhere from $700 to $1,500 or more for a round-trip ticket, but prices can fluctuate. Accommodation: Cairo offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury properties. On average, you can expect to pay around $50 to $200 or more per night, depending on your preferences. Food: Dining costs will depend on your eating habits. A meal at a mid-range restaurant may cost around 100 to 200 Egyptian Pounds (EGP), while street food or more upscale dining can be more or less expensive. Transportation: Local transportation costs, such as taxis, rideshares, or public transportation, will contribute to your overall budget. Public transportation in Cairo is relatively affordable. Activities: Entrance fees to attractions, guided tours, and other activities will add to your expenses. Budgeting for around 200 to 500 EGP per day for activities is a reasonable estimate. As a rough estimate, a mid-range budget for a 7-day trip to Cairo from the United States could range from $1,500 to $3,000 or more per person. Keep in mind that these are general estimates, and prices can fluctuate based on various factors. It's advisable to research current prices, consider any promotions or discounts, and plan according to your personal preferences and financial capacity.

Cairo offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own unique atmosphere and attractions. The best place to stay depends on your preferences, interests, and the type of experience you're seeking. Here are some popular neighborhoods in Cairo: Downtown Cairo (Downtown or Midan Tahrir): Pros: Central location, close to major attractions such as the Egyptian Museum and Tahrir Square. Cons: Can be busy and noisy, especially during peak hours. Traffic congestion is common. Zamalek: Pros: Located on Gezira Island, Zamalek is a leafy and upscale neighborhood with embassies, art galleries, and trendy cafes. Cons: Accommodation prices may be higher, and it's not as close to some historical sites. Garden City: Pros: A residential area with green spaces and elegant architecture. Close to the Cairo Opera House and embassies. Cons: Limited nightlife options, and it may be quieter compared to other neighborhoods. Maadi: Pros: A suburb along the Nile with a more relaxed atmosphere. Popular among expatriates, with parks, shops, and restaurants. Cons: Further from the city center, so travel time may be longer. Heliopolis: Pros: A residential area with wide streets, parks, and shopping districts. Home to historical sites like Baron Empain Palace. Cons: Further from the city center, and the nightlife may not be as vibrant. Islamic Cairo (Al-Azhar and Khan El Khalili area): Pros: Immersed in the historical and cultural heart of Cairo. Close to landmarks like Al-Azhar Mosque and the Khan El Khalili Bazaar. Cons: Can be busy and crowded, especially during peak tourist hours. Nasr City: Pros: A densely populated district with shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment options. Cons: Traffic congestion can be an issue, and it may lack the historic charm of other areas. When choosing accommodation, consider factors such as proximity to attractions, public transportation, the ambiance you prefer, and your budget. Cairo has a mix of budget hotels, luxury properties, and boutique accommodations. Additionally, keep in mind the time of year you're visiting and any specific events or festivals that may influence the atmosphere and availability of accommodations. It's advisable to book your stay well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

The best time to visit Cairo is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is generally pleasant and temperatures are moderate. During these seasons, you can enjoy comfortable temperatures for exploring the city's outdoor attractions without the extreme heat that characterizes the summer months. Here's a breakdown of the different seasons in Cairo: Spring (March to May): Spring is considered one of the best times to visit Cairo. Temperatures are mild, ranging from around 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The city is in bloom, and outdoor activities are enjoyable. It's a popular time for tourists. Summer (June to August): Summer in Cairo can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) in July and August. The heat can be challenging for outdoor activities, and many visitors prefer to stay indoors during the peak of summer. Fall (September to November): Fall is another excellent time to visit, with temperatures cooling down after the summer heat. Temperatures typically range from around 17°C to 28°C (63°F to 82°F), making it comfortable for sightseeing. Winter (December to February): Winter in Cairo is mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from around 9°C to 19°C (48°F to 66°F). While it's still a good time to visit, evenings can be cooler, so bringing a light jacket or sweater is advisable. When planning your visit, consider the following factors: Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting, is observed by Muslims in Cairo. The dates of Ramadan change each year based on the lunar calendar, so check the calendar to be aware of the dates during your visit. During Ramadan, certain activities and services may be affected, and it's important to respect local customs. Major Events and Festivals: Check if there are any major events, festivals, or celebrations taking place in Cairo during your planned visit. Ultimately, the best time to visit Cairo depends on your personal preferences regarding weather, crowd levels, and the type of activities you want to enjoy.