After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, you’ll be picked up by your driver for another full day of discovery. Your journey today will take you to several important archaeological sites on the outskirts of Cairo.

Your first stop is Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt during the Old Kingdom, and one of the oldest cities in the world. Once a bustling metropolis, Memphis is now a tranquil archaeological site. Here, you’ll see the massive Colossus of Ramses II, an imposing statue that once stood at the entrance to the city.

This statue offers an incredible glimpse into the grandeur and power of Egypt’s most famous pharaoh. Your guide will explain the historical importance of Memphis, its role as the political and spiritual heart of ancient Egypt, and the many temples dedicated to gods like Ptah. You will also visit the Alabaster Sphinx, a rare and beautifully crafted figure that reflects the exceptional artistry of the time.

Next, continue to Saqqara, the sprawling necropolis of ancient Memphis, which is home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser. This pyramid, built by the architect Imhotep, is the oldest stone pyramid in Egypt and represents a crucial step in the evolution of pyramid design.

Your guide will take you through the complex, explaining the importance of the Step Pyramid in Egyptian architecture and how it marked the beginning of monumental stone structures. The site also features several tombs and mastabas that give you insight into ancient Egyptian burial practices.

From Saqqara, head south to Dahshur, home to two of the earliest pyramids in Egypt: the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid. These structures are particularly important as they represent pivotal moments in the development of pyramid construction.

The Bent Pyramid has a unique shape due to a change in angle during its construction, while the Red Pyramid is Egypt’s first true smooth-sided pyramid, built by Pharaoh Sneferu. The contrasting designs of these pyramids showcase the trial and error that led to the perfected shape of the later pyramids at Giza.

After exploring these ancient sites, enjoy a traditional Egyptian lunch at a local restaurant. Delight in dishes like molokhia (a green leafy stew), grilled meats, and freshly made bread—giving you a true taste of Egyptian cuisine. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization in Fustat, one of Cairo’s newest museums. This modern museum takes you on a journey through Egypt’s long and varied history.

The Royal Mummies Hall is the highlight, where you can get up close to the mummies of Egypt’s most famous pharaohs, including Ramses II, Seti I, and Hatshepsut. Seeing the mummies is a unique experience that connects you directly with Egypt’s ancient rulers and gives a deeper understanding of the beliefs surrounding death and the afterlife, 

After a full day of exploration, you’ll be transferred back to Cairo Airport for your return flight to Hurghada. As you fly back over Egypt’s stunning landscapes, reflect on the incredible experiences of the past two days—witnessing the grandeur of the pyramids, uncovering the mysteries of ancient Egypt, and gaining an in-depth understanding of one of the world’s oldest civilizations.