How to Plan Your 2 Days Beijing Tour With the Great Wall Hiking from Simatai West to Jinshanling

If you’re visiting Beijing, China, then hiking the Great Wall of China is a must-do activity. This 2-day Beijing tour with the Great Wall hiking from Simatai West to Jinshanling is a fantastic way to experience the historical and natural beauty of the Great Wall. The tour starts with a pickup from the Cairo International Airport and takes you on a journey through ancient history, culture, and natural beauty of Beijing’s countryside.

Day 1: Arrival and Hiking the Great Wall

After being picked up from the airport, the tour starts with a drive to Simatai West where the Great Wall hiking begins. This part of the wall is less crowded and offers stunning views of Beijing’s natural beauty. You’ll hike for approximately 9 kilometers, passing 20 watchtowers and making your way to Jinshanling. This hike is moderate in difficulty and it takes around 5 hours to complete, but the views along the way are worth the effort. You’ll get to see the Great Wall snaking across hills and valleys, witness the sunset and sunrise from the towers, and learn about the history of the wall from your professional English-speaking guide. After the hike, the tour takes you to a local guesthouse where you will stay overnight.

Day 2: Exploring Beijing’s Historical and Cultural Sites

After breakfast, the tour takes you to visit the famous Summer Palace, one of China’s most beautiful ancient imperial gardens. You’ll enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Long Corridor, visit the Longevity Hill, and marvel at the imperial palaces and pavilions. After a delicious lunch in a local restaurant, the tour takes you to the Forbidden City, China’s largest and most well-preserved ancient imperial palace. You’ll explore the different halls and buildings, learn about its history, and see the ancient artifacts and treasures inside. The tour ends with a transfer back to the Cairo International Airport for your departure.

What’s Included

This tour includes professional English-speaking guide service, air-conditioned car with chauffeur, hotel accommodation based on twin-sharing room, meals mentioned in the itinerary, admission fees to attractions listed, and roundtrip flight tickets to and from Cairo.

Additional Information

Confirmation will be received at the time of booking unless booked within 9 days of travel. In this case, confirmation will be received within 48 hours, subject to availability. The tour excludes Egypt Visa Fee, personal travel insurance, and gratuities.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Beijing tour with the Great Wall hiking from Simatai West to Jinshanling is a perfect way to experience the natural and cultural beauty of Beijing’s countryside. It offers an opportunity to hike the less crowded part of the Great Wall and explore other historical and cultural sites. With professional and informative guides, it’s an excellent way to experience everything that Beijing has to offer. To book the tour, please click book the tour here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cairo

1. Why is Cairo called “The City of a Thousand Minarets”?

Cairo is famously known as the “City of a Thousand Minarets” due to the large number of Islamic monuments found in the city. The minarets, which are tall slender towers with a balcony, are an important part of mosques and serve as a call to prayer for Muslims. Cairo is home to several iconic Islamic architectural landmarks such as the Al Azhar Mosque and the renowned Mosque of Ibn Tulun, that underline the city’s strong Islamic heritage and culture.

2. What is the best time to visit Cairo?

The best time to visit Cairo is in the winter season, between November to February when temperatures are the most moderate. The weather is enjoyable with some breezes that blow off the river Nile, making it an ideal time to stroll around the city and experience its vibrant culture. In summers, temperatures can go beyond 40 °C making it unbearable for most travelers. Planning your visit accordingly may involve working around the weather patterns and patterns of Islam, as most people’s schedule.

3. What are the must-visit tourist attractions in Cairo?

Cairo is a city that offers visitors a wide range of tourist attractions. Some of the top attractions are:

• The Pyramids of Giza- These are the most famed and magnificent pyramids in the world, located just outside the city.
• The Egyptian Museum- It has the world’s most extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun.
• Islamic Cairo- An eclectic neighborhood full of winding streets, bazaars, mosques, and minarets that provide a glimpse of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
• The Cairo Tower- A landmark that offers panoramic views of the city and the Nile River.

4. Is Cairo safe for tourists?

Cairo is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like many large cities, it is essential to take necessary precautions for personal safety. Travelers should avoid excessive display of wealth, stay aware of their surroundings, and avoid any confrontations. In addition, they should exercise caution while visiting certain areas of the city commonly known as “tourist traps.” It is also wise to have a trusted and reliable tour guide to ensure the best experience while touring the city.

5. What is the local currency in Cairo?

The local currency in Cairo is the Egyptian pound (EGP). It is best to carry some cash for everyday expenses; however, credit and debit cards are accepted in most places too. It is always best to come prepared with appropriate currency, know the conversion rates, and keep your valuables safe.

6. What is the local language spoken in Cairo?

The official language of Cairo is Arabic, and most locals speak Arabic in their day-to-day life. However, given the country’s strong tourism industry, English is also widely spoken, especially in popular tourist areas. So, if you know English, it is easy to navigate around Cairo, and you’ll find many locals and shopkeepers who also speak English. It can help travelers to learn some basic Arabic phrases to navigate through the city comfortably.

7. What is the local cuisine in Cairo?

Cairo is famous for its Arabic cuisine, including local dishes such as kofta, kebab, and shawarma. It is also known for its street food, especially falafel and shawarma wraps. Traditional dishes like Ful Medames, Koshari, and Molokhia are also popular in Cairo. Since Cairo is an Islamic country, pork is not readily available or consumed, so travelers need to explore other culinary options.

8. How to get around Cairo?

Getting around Cairo can be a bit challenging for tourists. The best options for touring the city are taxis or Uber. Try to ensure that you only take taxis or Uber from reliable companies, so it’s preferable to have a guide accompany you to avoid any accidental problems. Cairo also has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and metro lines, that can take travelers around the city at a relatively low cost. Visitors should note that Cairo traffic can be incredibly chaotic and require a certain amount of patience, especially during rush hours.

9. What are the appropriate dress codes in Cairo?

Cairo is a predominantly Islamic country, so dressing modestly is preferable to respect the local customs and beliefs. It is recommended to dress modestly, covering the arms, legs, and hair while visiting religious sanctuaries or mosques. Visitors should also keep in mind that Cairo can be very hot in summers, staying hydrated and wearing light and breathable fabrics can help travelers to stay comfortable.

10. What are some things to keep in mind while visiting Cairo?

Here are some things you may need to know before visiting Cairo:

• Being respectful to the local customs and traditions is crucial while visiting Cairo.
• Carrying cash as well as some basic Arabic is preferable while touring the city.
• Avoid drinking tap water, always use packaged water for drinking, and be mindful of food that is not hygienic.
• Take care of your valuables, as pickpocketing and thefts could occasionally happen in public areas.
• Always consult with an official tourist guide, especially if you’re visiting Cairo for the first time.

Cairo is an incredibly vibrant and unique city that offers an exceptional travel experience with its rich cultural heritage, excellent food, and extraordinary landmarks. With its diverse offerings, the city is an ideal choice for all types of travelers seeking adventure, historic experiences, and cultural insights. These FAQs should serve as a useful guide for tourists looking to visit the charming Egyptian city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Cairo

Cairo is the capital city of Egypt and is considered to be one of the oldest cities in the world, with a history dating back to the 6th millennium BCE. Cairo is known for its museums, mosques, markets, and the famous Great Pyramids of Giza. Cairo is a vibrant, bustling city with a fascinating history and culture, and there are many things to see and do for tourists. In this guide, we will explore some of the best ways to spend your time in Cairo.

Visit the Great Pyramids of Giza

The Great Pyramids of Giza are one of the most famous tourist attractions in Egypt and the world. The pyramids are ancient tombs of the pharaohs and are the only remaining ancient wonders of the world. They are located on the outskirts of Cairo and can be accessed by car or public transportation. There are three main pyramids, and visitors can explore the interiors of some of them. Additionally, there is a light and sound show at night that provides a unique perspective on the pyramids.

Explore the Egyptian Museum

Located in Tahrir Square, the Egyptian Museum is home to one of the world’s most extensive collections of antiquities. The museum has over 100,000 pieces, including the treasures of the famous King Tutankhamun. Visitors can explore the museum’s many galleries and exhibits, which give insight into Egypt’s long and fascinating history. The museum can get very crowded, so it is best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Take a Walk in Cairo’s Old City

Cairo’s old city, also known as Islamic Cairo, is a must-visit for anyone interested in the city’s history and culture. The old city is home to a range of mosques, madrasas, and other historical buildings that date back over a thousand years. The narrow streets and alleyways are densely populated, and it is easy to get lost, but that is part of the adventure. Some of the most notable architectural landmarks include the Citadel, Al-Azhar Mosque, and the Ibn Tulun Mosque.

Visit Khan el-Khalili

Khan el-Khalili is a historic bazaar in Cairo’s old city and is one of the city’s most important commercial hubs. The bazaar is a maze of narrow streets and alleys lined with shops selling everything from spices and perfumes to jewelry and textiles. Visitors can haggle over prices and enjoy the sights and sounds of this bustling marketplace. It is also home to many cafes and restaurants that offer traditional Egyptian food.

See the Alabaster Mosque in the Citadel

The Alabaster Mosque, also known as the Mohamed Ali Mosque, is located in the Citadel, a historic fortification in Cairo. The mosque was built in the 19th century and is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. The mosque’s stunning white marble facade and two minarets are visible from many parts of Cairo. Visitors can explore the mosque’s interior, which is decorated with intricate patterns and designs.

Visit the City of the Dead

The City of the Dead, also known as Al-Arafa, is a vast cemetery in Cairo that is home to many tombs and mausoleums. Many of the tombs are hundreds of years old, and some of them are still in use today. The area can be explored by foot or by horse-drawn carriage, and it offers a unique perspective on life and death in Cairo.

Take a Nile River Cruise

The Nile River is the lifeblood of Egypt, and a cruise along its banks offers some of the best views of the city. Many tour operators offer Nile River cruises, which range from a few hours to several days. Visitors can enjoy a traditional Egyptian meal while watching the city go by or take a sunset cruise and watch the skyline light up.

Book Your Tour Now

Cairo is an incredible city with a rich history and culture. There are many ways to spend your time as a tourist, from exploring the ancient pyramids to shopping in the bustling bazaar. By following this guide, you will be able to experience some of the city’s most famous landmarks and immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere.