Explore Garbage city and saint simon monastery

Exploring Garbage City and Saint Simon Monastery: An Honest Review

If you’re seeking a tour in Giza that offers more than just pyramid selfies, this Garbage City and Saint Simon Monastery experience might be exactly what you need. It promises a journey into a lesser-known side of Cairo, revealing the resilience and faith of local communities amid urban challenges.

What we love most? The insightful guides, offering historical and cultural context, the stunning views of the Moqattam Mountain, and the chance to see a vibrant, working-class neighborhood that’s often invisible to travelers. Plus, visiting the largest monastery in Cairo with its amphitheater seating 20,000 is truly impressive.

However, a possible drawback is the relatively short duration of around 4-6 hours, which might leave some wanting more in-depth exploration. The tour is perfect for those who want a taste of local life, religious sites, and history without feeling rushed. If you’re curious about Cairo beyond the pyramids and enjoy authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, this tour is well worth considering.

Key Points

• Authentic Community Encounter: Visit a neighborhood known as Garbage City, home to residents who are mainly Coptic Christians, offering a genuine glimpse into local life.
• Rich Religious Sites: Explore the Cave Church of St. Simon and the Monastery of St. Simon the Tanner, highlighting Egypt’s diverse faith landscape.
• Expert Guides: Led by knowledgeable guides and art historians, you’ll gain meaningful insights that bring each site to life.
• Convenient and Comfortable: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics hassle-free.
• Affordable for Value: At $50 per person, it delivers a meaningful experience blending history, culture, and local color.
• Limited Duration: The tour lasts about 4-6 hours, which is perfect for a day trip but may leave some wishing for extra time at each stop.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Meeting and Starting Point

The tour begins conveniently with hotel pickup in Cairo downtown or Giza at 9 am. This setup is ideal because it saves you the stress of navigating Cairo’s busy streets. You’ll meet your guide, who is generally described as engaging and knowledgeable, setting the tone for what promises to be an insightful journey.

Stop 1: Exploring the Old Cairo Neighborhood

The first stop takes you into the Manshiyat Naser area, better known as Garbage City. The name might evoke images of piles of refuse, but it’s more about the hardworking residents who carve out a livelihood amidst challenging conditions. Tourists report passing through this neighborhood without getting out of the car for safety reasons, which makes sense given the narrow, bustling streets.

From a visitor’s perspective, this is a rare opportunity to see a working-class area that’s often overlooked. Tour reviews mention how eye-opening and even “sad” the drive can be—highlighting the stark contrast between Cairo’s wealthy neighborhoods and its informal settlements. Yet, it’s precisely this authenticity that makes the visit so compelling.

Saint Simon Cave Churches and Monastery

Next, you’ll venture into the Coptic Christian sites, starting with the Cave Church of St. Simon, which has become famous for its unique architecture carved into Moqattam Mountain. The seven cave churches encased into the mountain are carved into the rock, showcasing the faith and resilience of the local Christian community.

The Monastery of St. Simon the Tanner is a highlight—it’s reportedly the largest monastery in Cairo and features an amphitheater that can seat up to 20,000 people. The guides often emphasize the scale and significance of this site, making it more than just a religious landmark; it’s a symbol of the community’s perseverance. Visitors frequently comment on how impressive the architecture and atmosphere are, especially those passionate about religious history and architecture.

Visiting the Papyrus Factory

The tour continues with a visit to a papyrus factory, where you’ll see artisans create paper from the ancient plant. This is a chance to witness a craft dating back thousands of years, and many appreciate the educational value of seeing how the Egyptians used to produce writing materials. It’s also a good opportunity to pick up souvenirs if you’re interested, though shopping isn’t the main focus.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The Guides and Their Knowledge

Multiple reviews highlight the expertise of the guides, with mentions of guides like Mahmoud and Mary, who share interesting anecdotes and historical insights. One reviewer even called Mahmoud a “fun guy” who kept the group engaged with jokes and stories, making the experience enjoyable and educational.

The Value of Authentic Encounters

Visitors love the chance to see Cairo from a local perspective, especially the neighborhood of Manshiyat Naser. Instead of a sanitized or touristy version, this trip offers a raw view of daily life—a significant factor for those wanting to understand Cairo beyond the surface.

The Religious and Cultural Significance

The diversity of religious sites—from Christian churches to mosques—adds depth to the tour. The Cave Church of St. Simon, often called the Famous Cave Church, is particularly notable for its unique carved architecture and spiritual atmosphere. It’s a rare opportunity to see a functioning religious site that’s both historic and deeply rooted in local faith.

The Cost and Duration

At $50 per person, including hotel pickup and drop-off, the tour is considered good value. It’s a half-day adventure, ideal for travelers with limited time but who want a meaningful experience. The inclusion of local guides, professional art historians, and photographers enhances the educational quality and ensures that you’ll come away with plenty of stories and facts.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses private transportation with a maximum of 14 travelers, making it a comfortable group size for interaction without feeling crowded. The pick-up from your hotel simplifies logistics, especially after a long flight or busy day exploring Cairo.

Duration and Timing

Starting at 9 am, the tour wraps up around 1 pm or later, depending on how long you linger at each site. The timing allows you to avoid the heat and crowds, making for a more relaxed experience.

What to Wear

The dress code is formal, which means modest clothing covering shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites. Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking (or sometimes just viewing from the car).

What’s Not Included

Drinks and food are not included, so it’s wise to carry water and perhaps a snack. Souvenir photos are available for purchase, should you wish to remember your visit with a keepsake.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers interested in authentic Cairo neighborhoods, religious architecture, and local communities. If you enjoy learning from guides, capturing striking scenes with a photographer, or simply want a well-rounded cultural afternoon, this tour checks all those boxes.

It’s especially suited for those who appreciate insights into daily life in Cairo and want to see a different side of Egypt—away from the tourist crowds and into the heart of the city’s faith and resilience.

While it may not be ideal for travelers seeking a full-day adventure or extensive exploration, the value for money and the depth of experience make this a worthwhile addition to your Cairo itinerary.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Cairo downtown or Giza, making logistics simple.

How long does the tour last?
The experience typically lasts between 4 to 6 hours, starting at 9 am and finishing around 1 pm or later, depending on stops.

Can I visit the Garbage City neighborhood on foot?
No, visitors usually view the neighborhood from the car for safety reasons, but it provides a powerful visual experience regardless.

What religious sites will I see?
You’ll visit the Famous Cave Church of St. Simon and the Monastery of St. Simon the Tanner, both significant Christian sites carved into Moqattam Mountain.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
The tour has a minimum age requirement of 18 years, and while suitable for most travelers, those with mobility issues should consider the walking and uneven terrain at religious sites.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and beverages are not included, so plan to bring water and perhaps a snack.

Can I purchase souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, there are opportunities to buy souvenirs, particularly at the papyrus factory, but shopping is not the main focus.

This guided experience offers a compelling look at Cairo’s lesser-known communities, religious architecture, and local resilience. If you’re ready to see another side of Egypt—one full of stories, faith, and vibrant life—this tour won’t disappoint.