Day 1: Travel from Aswan to Cairo
Breakfast at your hotel; Afterward, you will start your two-day journey to Cairo by flying from Aswan. Upon arrival, you will meet your tour guide, who will take you to discover some of the finest treasures created by the ancient Egyptian civilization, such as:
Giza Pyramids Complex
The Giza Pyramids Complex includes the valley temple, the solitary guardian Sphinx, six smaller pyramids, and the three Great Pyramids. Notably, all of these structures date back more than four thousand years.
The Great Pyramid
Built in 23 years, the Great Pyramid consists of 2,800,000 blocks of limestone. It stands 146 meters (481 feet) tall. This iconic structure marked the beginning of the golden age of construction in ancient Egypt. For nearly 3,800 years, it remained the tallest building in existence until the 14th century. The Pyramid of Khufu dates back to 2580 BC and serves as the oldest gate to the heavens.
The Great Sphinx rises 72.5 meters (240 feet) high and 22 meters (66 feet) wide. Designed as a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of King Khafre, it immortalizes his power and wisdom.
The Valley Temple
Additionally, we will explore the Valley Temple, which is one of the best-preserved archaeological structures in Egypt. Constructed entirely from limestone and granite, it holds incredible diorite statues of Chephren and many other amazing monuments. The temple achieved immortality through an extraordinary mummification process during Egypt’s Old Kingdom (2686-2181 BC).
Afterward, you will indulge in a delicious meal at a restaurant with a view of the pyramids. Then, you will head to:
Saqqara Step Pyramid
Imhotep, the brilliant architect, served as the vizier of Pharaoh Djoser (2686 BC–2649 BC) when he constructed the Saqqara Step Pyramid. This unique design features six steps and stands 62 meters tall. It is surrounded by a complex that contains majestic decorations and ceremonial structures. Notably, this construction marked the beginning of the golden age of pyramid construction in ancient Egyptian civilization.
Memphis City
Memphis City was home to the god Ptah, the patron of creation and artwork. Here, you will find various ancient Egyptian artifacts dating back over 4,000 years. You will also see grand temples dedicated to deities like Aton and Hathor. King Menes created Memphis as the official capital of Egypt.
After this fascinating day, you will check into a five-star hotel and spend the night there.
Day 2: Visit Old Cairo’s Attractions
In the morning, you will enjoy breakfast before checking out of the hotel. Next, you will continue your two-day journey in Cairo by visiting unique tourist sites, including:
The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities
The Egyptian Museum is a wondrous labyrinth that houses magnificent items and monuments spanning over 4,000 years of Egyptian history. As one of the largest museums in the world, it boasts an extensive collection. The museum contains over 120,000 unique items, crafted from luxurious materials like gold and silver, as well as more common materials like wood and stone.
Additionally, the museum displays several exhibited mummies. Among its most famous items are the riches amassed by King Tutankhamun. After lunch at a restaurant in downtown Cairo, you will visit the following attractions:
The Hanging Church
The Hanging Church, also known as the Holy Church of the Virgin Mary, was constructed in the fifth century A.D. upon the southern wall of a Roman fortification called Babylon. For many years, it served as the seat of the Coptic patriarch, making it one of the most significant Coptic landmarks in Egypt. The church stands 30 feet high, suspended above the city of Cairo. Both the exterior and interior feature mesmerizing design elements dating from the 7th to the 13th centuries.
Amr Ibn Al-Aas Mosque
Moreover, we will see the Amr Ibn Al-Aas Mosque, built in 641 AD, became the first mosque in Africa. Throughout the centuries, it has been rebuilt numerous times, showcasing the evolution of Islamic architecture. Notably, it remains a prominent house of worship and a symbol of Egypt’s rich Islamic heritage.
Ben Ezra Synagogue
The Ben Ezra Synagogue dates back to the 19th century. It is believed that an original copy of the Old Testament was once kept here. Originally, it served as a church before being converted into a synagogue in 882 AD. The synagogue has been preserved in excellent condition and features a captivating assortment of styles and decorations. Before the 1950s, this location served as the center of Jewish life for many years.
The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization
The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) showcases rare artifacts from Egypt’s rich history, spanning over 400 years. Moreover, these treasures cover periods from prehistoric to ancient Egypt, as well as Greco-Roman, Coptic, Islamic, and modern times.
Khan El Khalili Bazaar
Established in 970 AD, the Khan El Khalili Bazaar remains one of the beating hearts of ancient Egypt. Today, it is still bustling with activities and holds everything a traveler could imagine. Known as the golden brick road of the Middle East. Additionally, the bazaar is home to vintage cafes and shops filled with extraordinary Islamic decorations.
Finally, you will head to the airport to catch your flight back to Aswan, thus concluding your two-day journey to Cairo by plane.
