How to Plan Your Red Sea Monasteries Day Tour from Cairo

The Red Sea Monasteries Day Tour from Cairo is an exciting opportunity to experience two of the world’s oldest Coptic monasteries, St. Anthony’s and St. Paul’s, as well as the stunning Red Sea mountains. This private 10-hour day trip includes transport by air-conditioned minivan, private driver-guide with personalized commentary, lunch, entrance fees, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Overview

This tour takes you on a scenic drive through Egypt’s Eastern Desert, where you can take in the stunning views of the craggy Red Sea mountains. You will visit the St. Anthony and St. Paul monasteries, two of the world’s oldest Coptic monastic retreats. You will have the opportunity to explore the churches, buildings, and gardens of both monasteries independently, viewing fascinating frescoes, icons, and manuscripts as you stroll around the churches and grounds. Throughout the tour, you’ll learn the stories of both saints.

Itinerary

This tour starts with a pickup from your hotel in Cairo at around 7:00 am. You will then head out on a scenic drive through Egypt’s Eastern Desert towards the Red Sea mountains. A private driver-guide will provide personalized commentary on the drive to the first monastery.You will first visit St. Anthony’s Monastery, which was established in the fourth century. This monastery is built on the site where St. Anthony, the father of monasticism, is said to have lived for many years. Here, you’ll have the chance to explore the churches, buildings, and gardens of the monastery independently.The next stop is St. Paul’s Monastery, which was established in the fifth century. This monastery is built on the site where St. Paul of Thebes lived for many years. You’ll have the chance to explore the churches, buildings, and gardens of the monastery independently, viewing fascinating frescoes, icons, and manuscripts as you stroll around the churches and grounds. Throughout the tour, you’ll learn the stories of both saints.After visiting St. Paul’s Monastery, you will enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. The tour then continues with a scenic drive back to Cairo, with dropoff at your hotel in the evening.

Inclusions

The following are included in the Red Sea Monasteries Day Tour from Cairo:- Private air-conditioned minivan transport

– Private driver-guide with personalized commentary

– Entrance fees to St. Anthony’s and St. Paul’s Monasteries

– Lunch at a local restaurant

– Hotel pickup and drop-off

Exclusions

The following are not included in the Red Sea Monasteries Day Tour from Cairo:- Drinks

– Gratuities for the driver/guide

Booking

To book the Red Sea Monasteries Day Tour from Cairo, visit here and follow the instructions on the website.

Tips

– Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the monasteries.

– Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

– Respect the religious nature of the monasteries by dressing modestly and behaving respectfully.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cairo

Egypt, the land of pharaohs and pyramids, is a fascinating tourist destination. And one of the popular cities in Egypt is the city of Cairo, which is home to iconic landmarks like the Great Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum. If you’re considering visiting Cairo, you likely have some questions. In this blog post, we’ll answer the most frequently asked questions about Cairo to help you plan your trip.

1. Is Cairo safe for tourists?

Safety concerns about Egypt and Cairo are common among travelers, but the truth is, Cairo is generally safe for tourists. Of course, like any big city, there are risks, such as pickpocketing, scams, and terrorism. However, these risks can be minimized by taking common-sense precautions, such as avoiding the crowded areas, not flashing valuable items, and being mindful of your surroundings.

2. What is the best time to visit Cairo?

The best time to visit Cairo is from November to March when the weather is mild, and the humidity is low. During this period, you can enjoy your visit to the pyramids and other outdoor attractions without feeling too hot. However, this time of year is also the busiest, so expect crowds and higher prices. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly trip, consider visiting between April and October when the weather is hot but the prices are lower.

3. What should I wear when visiting Cairo?

Egypt is a conservative country, and it’s advisable to dress modestly to respect the local culture. Women should cover their shoulders and wear long dresses or pants, while men should wear t-shirts and long pants. It’s also a good idea to bring a scarf or shawl to cover your head when entering religious sites.

4. How many days do I need to explore Cairo?

Cairo is a bustling city with many things to see and do, so ideally, you must spend at least 3-4 days exploring the city. This will give you enough time to visit the pyramids, Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum, and explore the vibrant streets of the city. If you have more time, you can explore the nearby cities like Alexandria or take a Nile River cruise.

5. What is the best way to get around Cairo?

The best way to get around Cairo is by using the metro, taxi or ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem. The metro is the fastest and cheapest option, with a single ticket costing 5 Egyptian pounds. Taxis are also widely available and relatively cheap, but make sure you negotiate the price before getting in. Finally, ride-hailing apps offer convenience and safety, especially for tourists who are not familiar with the city’s routes and prices.

6. Is bargaining necessary when shopping in Cairo?

Yes, bargaining is a common practice in Cairo and other parts of Egypt. Most markets and shops in Cairo do not have fixed prices, and vendors often inflate the prices, expecting you to bargain. To avoid paying more than the item’s worth, you need to bargain, but make sure you do it respectfully and not aggressively. It’s also helpful to research the price range of the item before going shopping.

7. Can I use US dollars or Euros in Cairo?

Yes, US dollars and Euros are widely accepted in Cairo, especially in tourist areas like the pyramids, hotels, and restaurants. But it’s advisable to have some Egyptian pounds for smaller expenses like taxis, souvenirs, and street food. You can exchange your currency for Egyptian pounds at banks, ATMs or exchange bureaus, which are widely available in tourist areas.

8. What are some traditional Egyptian dishes I should try in Cairo?

Egyptian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with many delicious dishes worth trying. Some of the traditional dishes to try in Cairo include:

• Koshary: A popular vegetarian street food made of rice, lentils, fried onions, and pasta topped with a spicy tomato sauce
• Ful Medames: A hearty breakfast dish made of fava beans, served with bread and vegetables
• Molokhia: A stew made of jute leaves, served with rice or bread and chicken or beef
• Kebab: Grilled meat, usually lamb or beef, served with bread, vegetables, and dips like tahini, hummus, or baba ghanoush.

9. What cultural etiquette should I be aware of when visiting Cairo?

Egypt is a traditional and conservative country, and it’s essential to respect the local culture and customs. Some cultural etiquette to follow in Cairo includes:

• Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques and religious sites
• Avoid showing public displays of affection
• Use your right hand for greeting, eating, and offering things
• Remove your shoes when entering mosques or private homes

Conclusion

Cairo is a fascinating city that offers a blend of history, culture, and modernization. By answering these frequently asked questions, we hope we’ve helped you plan your trip to Cairo and enjoy all that this city has to offer. Remember to take the necessary precautions, respect the local culture and customs, and have fun exploring this beautiful city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Cairo

Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is one of the most historically rich and culturally diverse cities in the world. Known for its ancient pyramids, stunning mosques, and bustling bazaars, Cairo is a must-visit destination for any traveler.If you’re planning a trip to Cairo and wondering how to spend your time as a tourist, here’s a detailed guide to help you make the most of your trip.

1. Visit the Pyramids of Giza

No trip to Cairo is complete without a visit to the Pyramids of Giza. These ancient wonders of the world were built over 4,500 years ago and are a testament to the engineering genius of the ancient Egyptians.You can explore the pyramids on foot or on the back of a camel. Make sure to visit the Sphinx, which is located nearby, and take plenty of photos to capture the sheer magnificence of these architectural wonders.

2. Explore the Egyptian Museum

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Egypt and its ancient civilization, a visit to the Egyptian Museum is a must. With over 120,000 artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun, this museum is one of the most important museums in the world.Take your time exploring the museum’s many halls and exhibits, and don’t forget to check out the mummy room, where you can see some of Egypt’s most famous pharaohs preserved in their original wrappings.

3. Take a Stroll Through Khan el-Khalili

For a taste of local life in Cairo, head to the Khan el-Khalili bazaar. This bustling market has been around since the 14th century and is filled with vendors selling everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and souvenirs.While you’re there, be sure to stop by one of the many cafes and restaurants to sample some traditional Egyptian dishes like koshary, ful medames, and stuffed pigeon.

4. Visit the Citadel of Saladin

The Citadel of Saladin is a medieval fortress located on a hilltop in Cairo. Built in the 12th century, this fortress was once the seat of power for Egypt’s rulers and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.The fortress is home to several museums, including the Military Museum and the Police Museum, and also offers amazing views of the city from its towering walls.

5. Take a Nile River Cruise

A Nile River cruise is a relaxing way to see Cairo from a different perspective. Many companies offer dinner cruises, which allow you to enjoy traditional Egyptian cuisine while taking in the sights from the comfort of a boat.Don’t miss the opportunity to see Cairo’s iconic buildings and landmarks, such as the Cairo Tower, the Cairo Opera House, and the 6th of October Bridge, from the tranquil waters of the Nile.

6. Check Out the Mosques

Cairo is home to some of the most stunning mosques in the world, each with its own unique architecture and design. Some of the must-visit mosques in Cairo include the Al-Azhar Mosque, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, and the Mosque of Ibn Tulun.Make sure to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering the mosques, and be respectful of the local customs and traditions.

7. Enjoy the Nightlife

Cairo’s nightlife scene is vibrant and diverse, with something for everyone. From upscale nightclubs and rooftop bars to traditional coffeehouses and street performances, there are plenty of options to choose from.Head to the Zamalek neighborhood for a night out on the town, or explore the many cafes and restaurants in the trendy Maadi district. Whatever your taste, Cairo is sure to have something to offer.

Final Thoughts

Cairo is a city that is steeped in history, culture, and tradition. With so much to see and do, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when planning a trip to this amazing destination.However, by following this guide, you can be sure to make the most of your time as a tourist in Cairo. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins or experiencing modern Egyptian life, Cairo has something for everyone.