In the early morning, you will be picked up from your hotel in Hurghada in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan or bus and travel to Cairo. Once you arrive in Cairo, you will meet your guide and head straight to the Giza Plateau. Explore the ancient wonders of the Giza Plateau, including the Pyramids of Giza, the oldest of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World. Visit the mortuary temples of Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinus. Learn about the construction and legends of these ancient monuments. Continue to the iconic Great Sphinx and the Valley Temple, attributed to Pharaoh Khafre. Marvel at these incredible feats of ancient engineering. Optionally, you can extend your experience with a camel or horse ride (available as an add-on). Next, take a break for lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, you have the option to enjoy a memorable boat ride on the Nile River (available as an add-on). Then, drive to Tahrir Square, where you will visit the Egyptian Museum, which houses the largest collection of Egyptian antiquities in the world. After visiting the museum, enjoy a shopping stop before returning to Hurghada. Finally, you will be dropped off at your hotel in Hurghada.Cairo: The City of a Thousand Minarets
Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is the largest city in Africa and the Arab world, with a population exceeding 20 million. It is a city where ancient history meets modern chaos, blending Pharaonic, Islamic, and Coptic Christian heritage. Located on the banks of the Nile, Cairo is home to some of the world’s most famous landmarks, including the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum.
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1. History of Cairo
Founded in 969 AD by the Fatimid dynasty under General Jawhar al-Siqilli.
The area has been inhabited for thousands of years, including:
Ancient Memphis (first capital of Egypt, 3100 BCE).
Roman Babylon Fortress (built by Emperor Trajan).
Islamic conquest (7th century) transformed the city into a religious and political center.
During the Mamluk and Ottoman periods, Cairo became one of the most important cities in the Muslim world.
Today, it remains Egypt’s political, cultural, and economic center.
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2. Top Attractions in Cairo
A) The Ancient Wonders (Giza and Saqqara)
Pyramids of Giza
The only surviving wonder of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Great Pyramid of Khufu (Cheops) – the largest (146m high).
Pyramid of Khafre – appears taller due to its higher base.
Pyramid of Menkaure – the smallest.
Great Sphinx of Giza – the world’s largest monolithic statue.
Saqqara and the Step Pyramid of Djoser
The oldest stone pyramid (built in 2650 BCE by Imhotep).
Part of the vast necropolis of Memphis, Egypt’s first capital.
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B) Islamic Cairo
Saladin’s Citadel
Built in 1176 AD by Salah ad-Din to defend against Crusaders.
Houses the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, also known as the Alabaster Mosque, offering panoramic views of Cairo.
Al-Azhar Mosque and University
Founded in 970 AD, it is one of the oldest universities in the world and a center of Islamic learning.
Sultan Hassan Mosque (14th century)
One of the most beautiful examples of Mamluk architecture.
Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
A lively market from the 14th century, where you can buy spices, perfumes, jewelry, textiles, and antiques.
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C) Coptic (Christian) Cairo
The Hanging Church (Al-Muallaqa)
A famous Coptic Christian church from the 4th century, built over an old Roman fortress.
Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus
Believed to be a shelter for the Holy Family during their flight to Egypt.
Coptic Museum
Holds one of the world’s most extensive collections of Christian artifacts and manuscripts.
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D) Modern Cairo
The Egyptian Museum
Home to over 120,000 artifacts, including:
The golden mask of Tutankhamun.
Mummies of Pharaohs (now moved to NMEC).
Ancient statues and jewelry.
The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)
Set to be the largest archaeological museum in the world, displaying treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb.
Cairo Tower
A 187-meter tower with a 360-degree view of the city.
Zamalek (Gezira Island)
A more modern and upscale district with parks, cafes, and cultural centers.
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3. Interesting Facts About Cairo
The most populous city in Africa – Over 20 million people live here.
Crazy traffic – Cairo’s streets are famous for their endless traffic jams and chaotic driving.
City that never sleeps – Markets, cafes, and shops stay open late into the night.
Home to the “City of the Dead” – A vast necropolis where thousands of people live among ancient tombs.
The Nile River divides the city into east and west banks.
A mix of ancient and modern – You can see pharaonic pyramids next to modern skyscrapers.
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4. Best Time to Visit Cairo
October – April (Cooler weather, around 20–25°C).
May – September (Very hot, over 35–45°C).
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Conclusion
Cairo is a city where history comes to life. From the ancient pyramids to medieval mosques and bustling markets, it offers an unforgettable journey through time.
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