Cairo Day Tour St.Simon monastery and Pharaonic Village

Cairo , Egypt

Cairo Day Tour St.Simon monastery and Pharaonic Village

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(2 reviews)

4h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

St. Simon Monastery in Cairo, Egypt, attracts visitors for its religious significance,immersive cultural experiences, insider knowledge, and memorable encounters with local traditions.being dedicated to Saint Simon the Tanner, who performed a miracle in Coptic tradition. The monastery's unique cave architecture, and stunning views of Cairo
The monastery is carved into the caves of Mokattam, making it a unique architectural marvel. The history of the community and their strong ties to the monastery add a deep cultural.

The Pharaonic Village in Egypt provides a captivating journey into ancient Egyptian civilization. Located on an island in the Nile near Cairo, it features realistic reenactments of daily life, with actors in traditional costumes performing scenes . Visitors can explore life-size replicas of iconic monuments, including the temples of Abu Simbel and Karnak, as well as Tutankhamun’s tomb.
offer an educational experience for tourists , adventurous and families alike.

Available options

Cairo Day Tour St.Simon monastery and Pharaonic Village

Pickup included

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

English speaking Guide

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Cave Church
At the end of 1969 his Excellency the governor of Cairo issued a decree to the end of removing all the trash collectors of Cairo to one of the hills of the Mokattam to live there. So they built themselves primitive houses, simply huts of tin that are called in their vernacular "Zaraayib" (namely pigsties). They were thus named after the place where donkeys and pigs live, and all the other livestock they reared up; such as goats and cattle.

The number of the trash collectors that live in that area reached about 15,000 according to the research of the International Bank which was carried out in July, 1987. But, by the grace of God, this number has doubled now.

Every person had a primitive trash cart that looked like a wooden box carried on two wheels and pulled by two donkeys, or more, because of the difficult hill up to the mountain which was not paved in the past.

Stop 2

he Pharaonic Village is an experience like no other. The instant you begin sailing down the canals that circuit through the island you are immersed totally in the Egypt of history and legend. Everywhere you look, you will find more and more of the sights and sounds of ancient Egypt, It becomes possible to imagine that you have traveled through time to a distant and glorious past
If you've just arrived in Egypt and you wish to brush up on your Egyptian history, a trip to the Pharaonic VIllage is a great idea, especially for those traveling with children. In the company of just your travel companions, this private tour takes you directly from your hotel and lets you learn as you explore

What's not included

Lunch is Excluding

Tipping For Guide & Driver

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

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Tripadvisor 5.0

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Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The remaining tour duration will be spent enjoying free time to take photos at each attraction, also any potential traffic.

Important notes

You should scan your ticket with your Guide when you meet

About Cairo

Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is a vibrant metropolis where ancient history and modern life intertwine. As one of the largest cities in Africa, it offers a wealth of historical landmarks, bustling markets, and rich cultural experiences that attract millions of visitors each year.

Top Attractions

The Great Pyramids of Giza

The iconic pyramids are one of the most famous landmarks in the world and a must-visit for any traveler to Cairo. They are part of the Giza Necropolis, which also includes the Great Sphinx.

Historical Half day to full day Moderate (around $10-20 for entrance fees)

Egyptian Museum

This museum houses the largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts in the world, including the treasures of Tutankhamun. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in Egypt's rich history.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate (around $10-15 for entrance fees)

Khan el-Khalili Bazaar

One of the oldest and most famous markets in the Middle East, Khan el-Khalili offers a vibrant shopping experience with a wide range of goods, from spices and perfumes to jewelry and souvenirs.

Cultural 1-2 hours Moderate (prices vary depending on items)

Coptic Cairo

This area is home to some of the oldest Christian churches in Egypt, including the Hanging Church and the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus. It's a fascinating place to explore for those interested in the history of Christianity in Egypt.

Historical 1-2 hours Low (around $5-10 for entrance fees)

Nile River Cruise

A Nile River cruise offers a unique way to see Cairo from a different perspective. Many cruises include dinner and entertainment, making it a memorable experience.

Cultural 2-3 hours Moderate to Expensive (depending on the cruise package)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Koshari

A popular street food made with a mix of rice, lentils, chickpeas, pasta, and fried onions, topped with a spicy tomato sauce.

Main Dish Vegetarian

Ful Medames

A traditional breakfast dish made with mashed fava beans, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil, often served with bread.

Breakfast Vegetarian, Vegan

Molokhia

A green leafy vegetable soup made with jute leaves, garlic, and coriander, often served with rice or bread.

Main Dish Vegetarian, Vegan

Kofta

Grilled minced meat skewers made with a mix of ground beef, lamb, or chicken, seasoned with spices and herbs.

Main Dish Contains meat

Popular Activities

Desert safaris Quad biking in the desert Hot air balloon rides over the Nile Nile River cruises Beach relaxation in Alexandria or Hurghada Spa and wellness treatments Exploring ancient temples and ruins Visiting museums and galleries

Best Time to Visit

October to April

This period offers the most pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The temperatures are mild, making it ideal for exploring the city's historical sites.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other parts of the city

Currency

Egyptian Pound (EGP)

Time Zone

EET (GMT+2)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Cairo is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing, scams, and harassment can occur, especially in crowded areas. It's important to stay vigilant, be aware of your surroundings, and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas.
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or deserted areas.
• Be cautious when using taxis, and always agree on a fare or use the meter before starting your journey.

Getting there

By air

Cairo International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Ramses Station

By bus

Cairo Bus Station, Turgoman Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is the fastest and most efficient way to get around Cairo. It has three lines and is relatively affordable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Careem

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Cairo Islamic Cairo Zamalek Giza

Day trips

Alexandria

220 km from Cairo • Full day

Alexandria is a beautiful coastal city with a rich history, offering a mix of ancient landmarks, beaches, and vibrant culture.

Luxor

670 km from Cairo • Overnight

Luxor is often referred to as the world's greatest open-air museum, offering a wealth of ancient Egyptian landmarks and temples.

Aswan

870 km from Cairo • Overnight

Aswan is a charming city on the Nile, known for its beautiful landscapes, ancient temples, and relaxing atmosphere.

Festivals

Cairo International Film Festival • Late November to early December Cairo Jazz Festival • Late January to early February Cairo Fashion Festival • April

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Arabic phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Hire a guide for major attractions, such as the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum, to gain a deeper understanding of their history and significance.
Bargain when shopping at markets and bazaars, as it's expected and can help you get a better deal.
Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites, to show respect for local customs and traditions.
Be prepared for heavy traffic and crowded streets, especially during peak hours and in popular tourist areas.