Cairo, Egypt
Step into a land steeped in history, where the echoes of the oldest civilization still resonate.
Egypt is a living testament to human ingenuity and endurance.
Upon flying over Cairo, many can witness the Pyramids from above, depending on where they are seated on the plane.
We stayed at the Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezirah, situated in the middle of the city on an island on the Nile River.
They have an outdoor sitting area, where you can enjoy the calmness of the river away from the noisy traffic jams, and three cultured restaurants that suit your taste.
Additionally, as the hotel is similarly close to the height of Cairo Tower, if you have a luck of receiving a room located between floor 20th and above, you will have the chance to witness the view of the whole city, including the Pyramids, from afar.
We spent the first day exploring the streets nearby, embracing the city's ambiance.
As we arrived at the end of the Eid Holiday, we were able to see many of the Ramadan decorations still set up in the streets, as Egypt is known to go all out during the holy month.
We found a restaurant called ‘Granita’ located right next to the All Saints' Cathedral.
The restaurant's interior and exterior embrace a European summer theme. It serves international and local cuisine, giving you the option to try both worlds.
The food was light and sound, and I recommend trying out their freshly made juices.
We decided to explore the church afterward, as it was recently done with Sunday Mass, since while we were waiting for our meal, we were able to hear the church mass. King Farouk I inaugurated the Church.
After a long walk, we decided to take a local boat that takes you on an hour's ride over the Nile River as we witnessed the sunset.
However, they are designated locations for tourists to take boats, which can be found along the road of the Nile River.
On the second day, we had the pleasure of visiting the Pyramids. Upon arrival, you must first buy entry tickets, which cost 120 Egyptian Pounds (2₤).
They have a discount for International students, so make sure to have your University ID with you.
Additionally, if you are Arab, make sure to have your Civil ID or any travel documents, as ticket prices differ for foreigners. This applies to museums as well.
If you are interested in getting entry tickets to enter the Pyramids, you must ensure you choose the correct entry pyramid ticket, as there are three different ones:
Khafre Pyramid
Menkar Pyramid
Mers Ankhe Tomb.
It is a long walk from the Entry ticket location to the Great Pyramid of Giza, yet the distance between the pyramids is not extended.
The Great Pyramid of Giza is the tallest pyramid in Egypt, where King Khufus was buried.
Visitors have a designated area where they can climb the pyramid stairs until its entrance and walk back down.
The second pyramid is the Walk to the Pyramid of Khafre, where King Khafre was buried. It takes only about 5 minutes to reach the pyramid.
You will notice locals giving camel rides.
I was not able to walk towards the last pyramid, which is the Pyramid of Menkaure, where King Menkaure was buried.
Next to it are three small pyramids dedicated to his wives.
We drove to a place where you could see all three pyramids from afar. Near the area, locals sell souvenirs and give carriage rides or, if you are brave enough, camel rides to experience how people used to travel around the desert area.
The rides take up to 30 minutes and take the tourist to a spot where you have a great view of the pyramids.
Exploring the pyramids ended with a quick stop to admire the Sphinx, which is located right in front of them.
Moreover, a Sound and Light Show takes place narrating the reign and achievements of the Pharaohs.
The show takes place from Wednesday to Saturday, which I hope to experience in my next visit!
The Grand Egyptian Museum is located near the Pyramids. The museum is currently on a trial run as it awaits its opening in 2024, so you may only see a portion of it.
The museum's exploration begins with an Immersive Experience of Tutankhamun's Life, followed by getting your own personal Audio Guide, whether in Arabic or English, as a museum guide explains the different statues and monuments.
At night, we decided to visit Khan el-Khalili, a bazaar in the center of Cairo.
There are many entrances to the bazaar, but I recommend entering from Bab Al Futuh, one of three remaining gates in the city wall of the old city of Cairo.
As you enter through the gates, you are greeted with a 10th-century mosque, Al-Hakim Mosque.
I had the pleasure of praying in it at a perfect time, as it was not crowded and quiet, which gave me a sense of peace and calmness.
Continuing down the road, you slowly enter the bazaar. Many merchants sell local items ranging from home decor to traditional clothing.
Additionally, there are many seating places where you can grab local tea and enjoy performances.
The vibrant decoration of the area gave me a sense of cultural belonging, as if exploring a place of familiarity but in a different font.
On our third day, we decided to visit The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, which recently opened in 2021 with its Grand Golden Parade.
It currently houses 22 royal mummies, including the famous Pharaoh Ramesses II.
Moreover, it displays a collection of artifacts and testimonies from prehistoric times to the present.
On our final day in Cairo, we decided to visit The Egyptian Museum of Cairo.
It houses the most extensive collection of Egyptian antiquities in the world, with over 120,000 items.
Additionally, Tutankhamun's coffin and other items are currently displayed there.
If you love visiting museums or reliving history, then Egypt is the place to be.
I recommend hiring a local travel agency to help you get around the city while explaining many essential facts surrounding Cairo.
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I recommend having a museum guide when visiting museums. They can explain thoroughly the history of Egypt through the artifacts and their uses.
Written by Fadak Al Kazemi