Today you will visit the Pyramids & Sphinx — reckoned by the Greeks as of the Seven Wonders of the World. A single pyramid is built from 2,300,000 blocks, each weighing an average of two and one–half tons. In the face of such immensity, one cannot help but feel the wonder and awe that so many writers and artists have sought to convey over the centuries. The Cheops Pyramid is particularly interesting since its interior burial chambers are open for inspection by the public. Not far from the Pyramids stands the Great Sphinx of Giza, dating from the time of Chephren (2620 BC). Hewn from natural yellowish limestone and standing 65 feet high & 187 feet long, this unforgettable statue combines the head of a Pharaoh with a lion’s body. From there you will return to the hotel, with the rest of the day at leisure. Perhaps book one of the following optional tours.
Overnight in Cairo
Optional: Half Day Citadel, Mosques & Khan Khalili Bazaar
Explore the rich heritage of Cairo on a tour that begins with the Citadel of Salah al-Din (Saladin), a grand fortress constructed in 1176 to defend against Crusaders, which later became the seat of power for Egypt’s rulers for over 700 years and was significantly developed by Muhammad Ali Pasha in the early 19th century. Just below the Citadel stands the monumental Mosque of Sultan Hassan, built between 1356 and 1363, widely regarded as one of the finest examples of Mamluk architecture in the Islamic world. Adjacent to it is the Mosque of Al-Rifai, constructed in two phases between 1869 and 1912, serving as a royal mausoleum for members of Egypt’s royal family, including King Farouk and the last Shah of Iran. The tour also includes a visit to Khan El Khalili Bazaar, founded in 1382 by Emir Djaharks El-Khalili in the heart of historic Fatimid Cairo, a lively market that remains a hub of commerce and culture, offering a wide array of antiques, traditional crafts, jewelry, and local eateries that reflect the vibrant spirit of the city.
Available: Every Day
Optional: Visit to the Incredible Egyptian Museum
The Citadel, perched on the Mokattam Hills of Old Cairo, served as Egypt's center of power for nearly 700 years. Built starting in 1176 and completed by Muhammad Ali Pasha in the 19th century, it housed Mamluk sultans and Turkish governors. Inside the Citadel is the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, also known as the Alabaster Mosque, built by Muhammad Ali Pasha on the site of Mamluk palaces. Its twin minarets, the tallest in Egypt at 84 meters, dominate the skyline. The tour also includes Khan El Khalili, a historic bazaar built in 1382, which remains a vibrant hub for trade, antiques, and local culture.
Optional: Sound and Light show at the Pyramids
Enjoy the evening with the incredible Philae Temple Sound and Light Show. This show will take you on a narrated journey to discover the legends of Goddess Isis and God Osiris. There is a marvelous story for this temple, from the early centuries when the site of Philae was flooded for six months each year. An incredible restoration program was undertaken in the 1960s, and the Temple was moved stone by stone to its current location. Enjoy the spectacular lights of the multimedia presentations which vividly reveal the form and majesty of this ancient site and walk through the magnificent temple as its history is narrated.
Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby
English Summer program: at 8:30 PM. (except Thursday at 9:30 PM)
English Winter program: at 6:30 PM. (except Thursday at 7:30 PM)
Optional: Half Day Citadel, Mosques & the Khan Khalili Bazaar
The Citadel, perched on the Mokattam Hills of Old Cairo, served as Egypt's center of power for nearly 700 years. Built starting in 1176 and completed by Muhammad Ali Pasha in the 19th century, it housed Mamluk sultans and Turkish governors. Inside the Citadel is the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, also known as the Alabaster Mosque, built by Muhammad Ali Pasha on the site of Mamluk palaces. Its twin minarets, the tallest in Egypt at 84 meters, dominate the skyline. The tour also includes Khan El Khalili, a historic bazaar built in 1382, which remains a vibrant hub for trade, antiques, and local culture.
Available: Every Day; Departure Time: Approx. 3 PM - *Pick up time may vary depending on the location / pick up point