How to Plan Your Walking Tour Through Islamic Cairo in Giza

If you are planning a trip to Giza, Egypt, and would like to explore the city’s rich historical and cultural background, don’t miss the opportunity to take a walking tour through Islamic Cairo. With over 1,000 years of history, this UNESCO-listed district is home to some of the most remarkable Islamic sites in the world, including mosques, madrasas, and historic streets. In this blog post, we will provide a detailed guide on how to plan your walking tour through Islamic Cairo, including what to expect, how to book, and what to bring with you.

Overview of the Walking Tour Through Islamic Cairo

This full-day private walking tour in Islamic Cairo will take you on a journey through the city’s ancient fortifications, exploring the district’s maze of narrow streets, and discovering its hidden gems. You will be accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide who will help you understand the history and the significance of the places you will visit.During the tour, you will see some of the city’s most remarkable landmarks, including the Mohamed Ali Mosque, the Al-Azhar Mosque, and the Khan Al Khalili Bazaar. You will also have the opportunity to visit some lesser-known sites and hidden gems, such as the Bab al-Futuh and the Al-Muizz Street. Along the way, you will have plenty of time to ask questions, take pictures, and soak in the local culture.

What’s Included in the Tour

The walking tour through Islamic Cairo includes the following:- Local taxes

– Bottled water

– Welcome drink

– GratuitiesIn addition, lunch at a local restaurant is also included in the tour, so you don’t have to worry about finding food during your tour in the ancient city. The tour also includes hotel pickup and drop-off from your Cairo hotel, making it convenient and hassle-free to participate in the tour.

How to Book Your Walking Tour Through Islamic Cairo

Booking your walking tour through Islamic Cairo is easy and straightforward. You can visit the following link to book and secure your spot for this popular tour: book the tour here. Once you have made your booking, you will receive a confirmation email and details about the pickup time and location.

What to Expect on Your Tour

You should expect to spend a full day exploring the city’s historic streets and landmarks during your walking tour through Islamic Cairo. The tour starts at 9:00 AM and lasts approximately 8-9 hours, including lunch. Your guide will meet you at your Cairo hotel, and you will travel to the Islamic district in an air-conditioned vehicle.Once you arrive at Islamic Cairo, you will begin your walking tour through the district, visiting the most significant and the most hidden gems. Your guide will provide you with a wealth of knowledge about the city’s history, culture, and customs. You will be able to take in the bustling streets and markets, try some local delicacies, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture.

What to Bring on Your Tour

As you will be walking for the majority of the day, it is best to dress comfortably and wear comfortable walking shoes. We also recommend bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect you from the strong sun. We suggest bringing a bottle of water to stay hydrated during the tour, as well as your camera to capture the memories.

Conclusion

Taking a walking tour through Islamic Cairo is an excellent way to explore the ancient city and learn about its rich history and culture. With knowledgeable local guides, convenient pickup, and a comprehensive list of inclusions, this tour provides an immersive, hassle-free way to discover this fascinating part of the world. Book your walking tour through Islamic Cairo today and experience the wonders of Giza’s rich and vibrant history.

Frequently Asked Questions about Giza

Giza is a city in Egypt located on the west bank of the Nile river. It has a rich history and is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. If you’re planning a trip to Giza, here are some frequently asked questions that may help you in your travels.

1. What is Giza famous for?

Giza is most famous for its ancient pyramids, which are among the most recognizable structures in the world. The Great Pyramid of Khufu is the largest and most famous of the three pyramids located in Giza. Giza is also home to the Great Sphinx, a massive stone statue often associated with the pyramids.

2. What is the best time to visit Giza?

The best time to visit Giza is between October and April, as the weather is mild with little to no rainfall. The summer months, from May to September, can be very hot with temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F).

3. How long does it take to visit the pyramids in Giza?

The amount of time it takes to visit the pyramids in Giza depends on how much you want to see and how thoroughly you want to explore the area. A quick visit to the pyramids can be done in a few hours, while a more comprehensive tour can take a full day or more.

4. Is it safe to visit Giza?

Generally speaking, Giza is a safe city, and tourists are not usually targeted for crime. However, it’s always a good idea to take necessary precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, not carrying large amounts of cash, and keeping your valuables out of sight.

5. How much does it cost to visit the pyramids in Giza?

The cost of visiting the pyramids in Giza varies depending on the level of access you want. A general admission ticket to the pyramids costs around 160 EGP (approximately $10 USD) and includes entry to all three pyramids, the Great Sphinx, and the Solar Boat Museum.

6. Is it necessary to hire a guide when visiting Giza?

While it’s not necessary to hire a guide, it can be helpful for visitors to have someone who knows the area and can provide information about the history and significance of the pyramids. Additionally, some areas of the pyramids are restricted to guided tours only.

7. What is unique about the pyramids in Giza?

The pyramids in Giza are unique because they are the only surviving examples of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. They were built over 4,500 years ago and are still standing today, a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the ancient Egyptians.

8. What else is there to see and do in Giza?

In addition to the pyramids, Giza has several other attractions worth visiting. These include the Sphinx Sound and Light Show, the Solar Boat Museum, and the Giza Zoo. There are also a number of restaurants and cafes in the area, as well as shops selling souvenirs and other goods.

9. How do I get to Giza?

Giza is located on the outskirts of Cairo and can be easily reached by car, taxi, or public transportation. Cairo International Airport is the closest airport to Giza, and there are frequent flights to and from major cities around the world.

10. Are there any cultural customs I should know about when visiting Giza?

Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions. It’s important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites and to remove shoes before entering mosques. Additionally, it’s customary to haggle when shopping in markets and souks.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Giza

Giza attracts visitors from across the world for its magnificent Pyramids that astound tourists with their grandeur and mystery. It’s a city of towering Pharaonic monuments, eternal deserts, and cultural experiences that transport visitors to a bygone era. Today, Giza is more accessible than ever, and there is plenty to explore for all types of travelers. In this guide, we will offer an insight into how you can spend your time as a tourist in Giza.

1. Visit the Pyramids of Giza

The Pyramids of Giza, comprising of the Great Pyramid of Khufu, Pyramid of Khafre, and Pyramid of Menkaure, are the primary attraction for anyone visiting Giza. You can book a tour guide, which ranges from 200 Egyptian pounds to 600 Egyptian pounds, or simply explore them yourself to get a glimpse of their majestic presence. Try visiting early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat. You can capture some stunning photos walking around the pyramids while you buckle up to these massive, carefully assembled stones.

1.1 Inside the Pyramids

Visitors are allowed to go inside the Great Pyramid of Khufu, which is around 147 meters tall. The entrance fee for accessing it is around 400 Egyptian pounds as of 2021. Be mindful that the climb inside the pyramid is steep and dark, so it’s not for everyone.

2. Explore the Sphinx

The Sphinx is situated close to the Pyramids and is another fascinating attraction for visitors to Giza. This mythical creature, with its body of a lion and the head of a human, serves as a testament to the Pharaonic heritage and is truly a remarkable sight. You can capture some great photos with the Sphinx in the background, but visitors are not allowed to go near the monument.

3. Visit the Solar Boat Museum

The Solar Boat Museum is situated beside the Great Pyramid of Khufu and houses the restored boat, which was discovered in the 1950s. The boat was built around 2500 BC and demonstrates the advanced technology that existed during that time. Visitors can walk around the museum and marvel at the artistry and craftsmanship that went into building this state-of-the-art vessel.

4. Attend the Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids

The Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids is a unique experience where visitors can watch an impressive sound and light show that tells the story of the Pyramids and the Sphinx. It’s best to book tickets online in advance, and it is an excellent activity to enjoy at night when the temperature has cooled down.

5. Explore the Giza Necropolis

The Giza Necropolis is a vast cemetery that lies on the outskirts of Giza town. It comprises of the tombs of Pharaohs and their family members, nobles and priests, and common people. Visitors can explore several sites within the Necropolis, including the Tomb of Meresankh III, Tomb of Khentkaus I, and the Mastaba of Ti. A guided tour will give you more information about the rich history of these sites.

6. Visit the Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum is situated in Cairo and is a fascinating museum that houses a vast collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts. It’s a treasure trove of Pharaonic art and is home to exhibits of several prominent Pharaohs such as Tutankhamun’s golden death mask, as well as artifacts from the Pre-Dynastic period. Visitors can spend hours exploring the museum, and it’s highly recommended to book a guided tour to get the most out of your visit.

7. Take a Camel Ride

A camel ride is an enticing way to explore the pyramids and the desert of Giza. The ride offers a unique perspective to tourists and allows them to experience Egypt in a different way. You can book a camel ride with a tour guide for around 300 Egyptian pounds, which usually lasts for about an hour. While enjoying the ride, you can take in the beautiful views of the pyramids and the desert.

8. Indulge in Local Food

During your visit to Giza, don’t forget to try Egyptian cuisine; it’s delicious and will leave you craving for more. You can visit local eateries and try some of the traditional dishes such as Koshari, Ful Medames, and Shawarma. Be sure to also try the famous Egyptian tea, a sweet, aromatic tea that’s perfect for every season.

Conclusion

Visiting Giza can be a life-changing experience, and there is plenty to do and see, whether it’s exploring the Pyramids, enjoying a camel ride, or indulging in local cuisine. Remember, Giza is a busy tourist destination, so it’s always best to plan in advance and book tickets and tours early if you want to avoid the crowds. With this guide, you can make the most of your trip to Giza and create unforgettable memories.