Day Trips from Cairo

With the body of a lion and the face of a human, the Sphinx of Giza plateau stands at a height of around 20 meters on the west bank of river Nile. The Sphinx has been recognized as a mythical creature in Greek mythology as well. Cut out from its limestone bedrock, the Sphinx is also recognized as the oldest known monumental sculpture in Egypt. It is the same bedrock which served as the quarry for the Pyramids of Giza.

Distance from Cairo: 5 km

Best Time: October - April

Fantastically attractive, the pyramids of Giza is the tomb of Pharaoh Khufu and the largest Egyptian pyramid. It is also the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. These fourth dynasty funerary pyramids are located on the city's edge and have always been one of the best highlights of Cairo.

Distance from Cairo: 1 km

Known For : Bibliotheca Alexandrina Qaitbay Citadel Alexandria Corniche

Alexandria is the second largest city in Egypt. Being one of the major Mediterranean ports in the country, Alexandria boasts stunning coastlines and beachfronts. Founded by Alexander the Great, the city has a rich history, and is studded with museums, historical neighborhoods, and archaeological parks. The lighthouse of Alexandria was once regarded as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient world.

Best Time: December-February

18 Alexandria Attractions

Saqqara, located south of Cairo, is a home to Egypt's oldest pyramid and is the largest archaeological site in Egypt. The necropolis of Saqqara houses eleven step pyramids which are burial grounds of old pharaohs. Major attractions onsite include Step pyramid of Djoser, Mastaba of Ti, Serapeum, Pyramid of Unas, and Mastaba of Mereruka.

Distance from Cairo: 31 km

This little and enclosed region also called Coptic Cairo, is the most ancient part of Cairo. It is the heart of the Coptic Christian group and remains a truly fascinating spot to visit. The Coptic Museum contains an abundance of valuable information on Egypt's initial Christian period and is home to one of Egypt's finest accumulations of Coptic art collections.

Distance from Cairo: 5 km

The Dahshur pyramids played a pivotal role in the Egyptian civilization's architectural evolution. They served as a crucial learning ground, enabling the transition from step-sided pyramids to the more refined smooth-sided structures. This knowledge, accumulated over time, culminated in the construction of the Great Pyramid of Giza – the sole surviving wonder of the ancient world, still standing today.

Wadi Al-Hitan, or Whale Valley, in Egypt's Western Desert, is a treasure trove of fossils. It holds the remains of Archaeoceti, an ancient and now extinct whale suborder, showcasing a crucial chapter in the evolution of whales from land-dwelling to oceanic mammals. This site is globally significant, vividly illustrating this evolutionary transition with a remarkable concentration and quality of fossils. It provides insights into the environment and ecology of the time, making it a unique and accessible paleontological site set within a captivating landscape.

Port Said, situated on Egypt's Mediterranean coast, offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and maritime charm for travelers. This vibrant city, established during the construction of the Suez Canal in 1859. Visitors can explore the city's historic sites, such as the Port Said Military Museum and the Suez Canal Authority Building, providing insights into Egypt's rich maritime history. The city's bustling waterfront promenade, offering picturesque views of passing ships, is a popular spot for leisurely strolls and local street food.

Wadi El Natrun, nestled in the Western Desert of Egypt, is a captivating destination for travelers with a penchant for history and spirituality. Known as the "Valley of the Monasteries," it's home to some of the world's oldest and most significant Christian monastic communities. These ancient monasteries, like Deir Anba Bishoi and Deir El-Suryani, provide a glimpse into Egypt's Coptic Christian heritage, offering beautifully preserved frescoes, religious artifacts, and a serene atmosphere for contemplation.

Fayoum Oasis, located just a few hours from Cairo, is a hidden gem in Egypt's desert landscape, offering a tranquil and immersive travel experience. This natural oasis is characterized by its serene lakes, verdant farmlands, and unique desert beauty.Travelers can embark on boat trips on Lake Qarun, explore the vibrant local markets, and discover the remnants of ancient civilizations in the desert.

Tanis, a day trip from Cairo, is located in the Nile Delta, about 165 kilometres from Egypt's capital. Tourists can visit several temple ruins, including the main temple dedicated to Amun and an important royal necropolis containing the only intact royal pharaonic burial - the tomb of Tutankhamun. Tanis, also known as San El-Hagar, was featured in the Indiana Jones film Raiders of the Lost Ark.

Distance from Cairo: 635 km