Private 2 Day Trip to Cairo From Makadi Bay By Private Car
Travel in comfort with a private car and your own guide on a two-day tour from Makadi Bay to Cairo. Discover the Giza Pyramids, the Great Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum. Explore Old Cairo, including the Citadel of Saladin, Mohamed Ali Mosque, Coptic Cairo, and Khan El Khalili Bazaar. This tour offers the best of Cairo’s history and culture with personal service.
Day 1 / Makadi Bay to Cairo – Pyramids, Sphinx, and Egyptian Museum
Your journey begins with a private pick-up from your hotel in Makadi Bay at 3:00 AM. Relax in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle as you enjoy the scenic drive through the Egyptian desert, approximately 540 kilometers to Cairo. During your drive, you’ll pass through vast desert landscapes, preparing for an exciting day filled with the wonders of ancient Egypt.
The first stop on your tour is the Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Marvel at the grandeur of the Great Pyramid of Cheops, built during the 4th Dynasty of the Old Kingdom. Explore the neighboring Pyramid of Chephren and the Pyramid of Mykerinus, and listen to your private Egyptologist guide as they share fascinating insights into the construction, religious significance, and mystery of these monumental tombs.
Next, visit the Great Sphinx of Giza, one of Egypt’s most iconic monuments. This majestic statue, with the body of a lion and the head of Pharaoh Chephren, has stood as a guardian of the pyramids for thousands of years. Learn about its enigmatic origins, its symbolism, and the myths surrounding its creation.
After exploring the Pyramids and Sphinx, visit the Valley Temple of Chephren, where ancient Egyptians carried out mummification rituals for the Pharaohs. This well-preserved site offers a deeper understanding of the funerary practices and religious customs of ancient Egypt.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant with panoramic views of the pyramids. Savor traditional Egyptian dishes as you take in the breathtaking surroundings of the Giza Plateau.
In the afternoon, head to the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, which houses over 250,000 artifacts from Egypt’s ancient past. One of the highlights is the famous Tutankhamun collection, including his golden death mask and the royal treasures that were unearthed from his tomb in the 1920s. Explore other fascinating exhibits showcasing statues, mummies, and ancient manuscripts that bring ancient Egyptian history to life.
For an additional fee, you can visit the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization to view the Royal Mummies Hall, where mummies of Pharaohs like Ramses II and Seti I are displayed. This optional visit offers a deeper insight into Egypt’s mummification practices and royal history.
After an enriching day of exploration, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Cairo to relax and reflect on the day’s adventure.
Day 2 / Old Cairo – Citadel, Mohamed Ali Mosque, Coptic Cairo, and Khan El Khalili Bazaar
Start your second day with a hearty breakfast at your Cairo hotel before diving into the historic wonders of Old Cairo. This part of the city is renowned for its Islamic and Coptic heritage, offering a fascinating blend of Egypt’s rich cultural history.
Your first stop will be the Citadel of Saladin, a medieval Islamic fortress built in the 12th century. Once Egypt’s center of power, the Citadel offers stunning views of Cairo and is home to several important monuments, including the Mohamed Ali Mosque. Learn about the Citadel’s role in protecting Cairo from Crusader invasions and its significance as a symbol of Islamic Cairo.
Visit the Mohamed Ali Mosque, also known as the Alabaster Mosque, for its striking white alabaster walls. Built between 1830 and 1848, it’s an architectural gem modeled after the Blue Mosque in Istanbul. From the mosque, enjoy panoramic views of Cairo, including a distant view of the Pyramids of Giza.
Next, explore Coptic Cairo, the heart of Egypt’s Christian heritage. Visit the Hanging Church (Saint Virgin Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church), one of Egypt’s oldest and most historically significant churches. Continue your journey through Coptic Cairo with a visit to the Church of Abu Serga, famous for its connection to the Holy Family’s journey through Egypt. Don’t miss the Ben Ezra Synagogue, where Moses is believed to have been found.
End your historical exploration with a visit to the Khan El Khalili Bazaar, a vibrant market dating back to the 14th century. Wander through the maze of narrow streets and shop for traditional Egyptian handicrafts, including jewelry, textiles, spices, perfumes, and antiques. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of this iconic marketplace, and take time to pick up souvenirs to commemorate your trip.
After a full day of sightseeing in Old Cairo, your private driver will take you back to Makadi Bay in the afternoon. Enjoy the scenic drive through the Egyptian desert as you reflect on the incredible experiences of your two-day tour. You’ll arrive back at your hotel in the evening, concluding your unforgettable Cairo adventure.
