Cairo Hotel to Wadi El Natroun Tour Itinerary

We will pick you up from your hotel in Cairo and drive for 2 hours in a deluxe private A/C vehicle to the northwest, where you will explore the remarkable Wadi El Natroun.

Wadi El Natroun

Wadi El Natroun stands as one of the most significant Christian sites in the world. In the 4th century, thousands of Copts sought refuge here from oppression during the reign of the Roman Emperor. This majestic location marks the birthplace of Christian monasticism and served as a vital source of carbonated sodium for ancient pharaohs, used in mummification. While the area once featured numerous monasteries, only four remain today.

Monastery of Paramus

Visit the Monastery of Paramus, known as “Deir Al Baramus” in Arabic, established in 340 AD by St. Macarius. He dedicated his life to serving the Christian faith at this site.

Monastery of Saint Bishoy

Explore the Monastery of Saint Bishoy, dedicated to Anba Bishoy, who claimed to have seen Jesus Christ. This monastery houses five Coptic churches and features large towers built to protect against Berber attacks.

Monastery of Abu Makar

Discover the Monastery of Abu Makar, one of the oldest in Wadi El Natroun, constructed in the 4th century by St. Makarius the Great. This site serves as a memorial for St. Makarius, the father of the monks in the valley, who was the first to reside there.

El Suryan Monastery

Visit the El Suryan Monastery, founded by St. Bishoy in the 6th century and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Some Syrian monks inhabited this monastery for a time, which inspired its name, “Suryan.”After exploring these fascinating sites, enjoy a delicious lunch before we drive you back to your hotel in Cairo.