A Detailed Review of the From Cairo: Tanis and Bubastis with Traditional Lunch Tour
If you’re looking to escape the crowds at the pyramids and venture into lesser-known archaeological sites, this private day trip to Tanis and Bubastis offers a fascinating alternative. It promises a blend of history, culture, and authentic Egyptian charm, all within a comfortable, well-organized package.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to explore sites with fewer travelers, allowing for a more personal and relaxed experience. Second, the knowledgeable guides who bring these ancient stories alive — especially helpful when visiting lesser-visited locations like Tanis. Lastly, the value for money, considering the included entrance fees, lunch, and private transportation.
One potential consideration? The long drives—around two hours each way—might feel tiring if you’re not used to long journeys. But if you’re passionate about Egypt’s history and eager to discover its hidden corners, this trip is an excellent choice.
This tour is best suited for travelers with a keen interest in archaeology, history buffs, or anyone wanting an authentic experience beyond the busy tourist spots. It’s also ideal for those who value guided insights and a more intimate exploration of Egypt’s ancient past.
Key Points
- Unique archaeological sites away from crowded tourist spots
- Expert guides with enthusiastic, detailed knowledge
- Comfortable private transportation with air conditioning
- Includes lunch and entrance fees, offering good overall value
- Long travel times, but well-organized for a smooth day
- Perfect for history lovers, off-the-beaten-path explorers, and culturally curious travelers
Exploring the Ancient City of Tanis
Your day begins early, as you get picked up from your Cairo hotel in a clean, air-conditioned vehicle. The drive to Tanis takes approximately two hours, giving you time to relax and reflect on Egypt’s vast landscape. Once you arrive, you’ll quickly notice the site’s less crowded atmosphere—no throngs of travelers here, just a peaceful space to soak in history.
Tanis was once a prominent capital during Egypt’s New Kingdom era and is linked with biblical history, often identified with Zoan, a city mentioned in the Bible. The guides are well-equipped to share stories of its past, from the bustling port to its religious significance. You’ll explore the temples of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu, where the ruins whisper tales of pharaohs and gods.
The artifacts and sculptures are impressive, and the site’s large, open layout means you can wander freely, truly appreciating the scale of ancient Egyptian construction. Visitors often comment on the less crowded environment, which makes for a more contemplative visit—perfect for those who dislike the crowds at the Pyramids.
Travel tip: Bring your camera — the expansive views of the ruins and the desert backdrop are photo-worthy. According to reviews, guides like Ayman Gabry add value with their wealth of knowledge, making history come alive through engaging stories.
The Enchantment of Bubastis
After about two hours of sightseeing at Tanis, the journey continues to Bubastis, a city famed for its association with the feline goddess Bast. This site, also called Per-Bast, offers a different kind of experience—focused on Egypt’s unique relationship with cats.
In Bubastis, you’ll discover the remnants of temples dedicated to King Teti and Pepi I, providing insight into Egypt’s royal and religious history. Many visitors are captivated by the site’s atmosphere of tranquility and the chance to see ruins that are less touched by modern tourism.
What makes Bubastis special? Its connection to cat worship — a key aspect of ancient Egyptian religion. You might find sculptures and artifacts that highlight this unique bond, making it a highlight for animal lovers or anyone interested in religious practices.
Insight from reviews: Tourists have appreciated how guides like Mahmoud share passion and local insights, making the experience more engaging. One reviewer emphasized how the guide’s enthusiasm “excited us to explore lesser-known places like Tanis” and appreciated the clear explanations.
Authentic Egyptian Lunch and Round-Trip Comfort
A highlight of this tour is the included traditional Egyptian lunch. After a full morning of exploration, you’ll enjoy a well-prepared meal that offers a taste of local flavors. Reviewers note that lunch is quite late in the day, so bringing a snack might be wise if you’re a big eater or tend to get hungry earlier.
The tour includes round-trip transfers, taking care of transportation logistics so you don’t have to worry about navigating taxis or buses. The vehicle is described as comfortable and clean, making those long drives more enjoyable.
The tour’s price point at $194 per person is quite reasonable considering the entrance fees, guide services, and lunch. For travelers interested in Egyptian archaeology beyond the pyramids, this offers a cost-effective way to see important but lesser-known sites.
What to Expect Throughout the Day
The day kicks off early with pickup from your Cairo hotel, followed by the scenic two-hour drive to Tanis. Once at Tanis, you’ll spend a few hours wandering the ruins, guided by a passionate Egyptologist who provides context and stories behind each archaeological find.
After lunch, the journey continues to Bubastis, where the focus shifts from temple ruins to the cultural significance of cats. The site’s peaceful atmosphere and historical artifacts make it an ideal spot for reflective exploration.
Throughout the day, you’ll be traveling in a private vehicle, allowing for flexibility and comfort. The guides are praised for their knowledgeability and enthusiasm, which enhances the experience—especially when visiting sites that aren’t typically on tourist itineraries.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details and Considerations
- Transportation: Air-conditioned private vehicle, comfortable for long drives
- Duration: Approximately 10 hours, including travel time and sightseeing
- Price: $194 per person, including entrance fees, lunch, guide, and bottled water
- Availability: Bookings are flexible — pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
- Additional costs: Pickup/drop-off from Cairo airport or specific locations like the New Cairo or Heliopolis incurs extra fees
- What to bring: Passport or ID card, and perhaps a snack due to the late lunch time
- Languages: Guides can provide explanations in multiple languages including English, French, German, Arabic, and more
Authentic Experiences and Unique Insights
The reviews highlight how much travelers appreciated the knowledge and passion of the guides like Mahmoud and Ayman, who bring history alive with clear, engaging stories. This personal touch makes a difference when exploring archaeological sites that are not always well documented in guidebooks.
Many reviewers also mentioned the quiet, uncrowded nature of the sites, making the experience more intimate and reflective. The opportunity to wander around artifacts and ruins without the usual crowd noise allows for more meaningful engagement with history.
The included lunch, a taste of traditional Egyptian cuisine, is seen as a genuine cultural experience that complements the sightseeing. While some note that lunch can be quite late, it’s balanced by the overall value and rich experience of the day.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is perfect for history buffs eager to go beyond Egypt’s more famous sites. If you enjoy archaeological ruins, ancient temples, and learning from passionate guides, you’ll find this trip rewarding. It’s also suited for travelers who prefer private, flexible tours that prioritize comfort and personalized attention.
Those interested in Egyptian religion and animal symbolism, especially involving cats, will find Bubastis particularly fascinating. It’s ideal for those who want a more relaxed, less touristy experience, and value authentic insights over crowds.
Final Thoughts
This private tour to Tanis and Bubastis offers a compelling mix of history, culture, and quiet exploration. By visiting sites that see fewer travelers, travelers can enjoy a more relaxed and personal connection with Egypt’s past. The guides’ expertise, combined with the well-organized logistics and included lunch, make this a worthwhile option for those looking to deepen their understanding of Egypt’s archaeology.
While the long drives may not suit everyone, the overall experience provides value for money and authenticity that many travelers seek. Whether you’re a dedicated history enthusiast or simply someone wanting a more meaningful journey into Egypt’s ancient world, this trip delivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transfers in a private, air-conditioned vehicle are included, which makes the long drives manageable and comfortable.
How long is the total tour?
The entire day lasts approximately 10 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and lunch.
What sites will I visit?
You’ll explore the ancient ruins of Tanis, including temples of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu, as well as temples dedicated to King Teti and Pepi I at Bubastis.
Is the tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking around archaeological sites, which might be uneven or require some stamina. It’s best to check with the provider if you have specific mobility concerns.
How much does the tour cost?
The price is $194 per person, which covers entrance fees, guide services, lunch, and bottled water during transfers.
Can I book this tour and pay later?
Yes, the booking policy allows you to reserve your spot without upfront payment, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, and consider packing a snack since lunch is quite late. Sun protection and comfortable shoes are also recommended.
Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, the tour offers guides fluent in several languages, including English, French, German, Arabic, and others.
Can I customize the pick-up location?
Additional costs apply for pick-ups from locations such as Cairo airport, New Cairo, Heliopolis, or other specified areas.
This tour offers a rare glimpse into Egypt’s lesser-explored archaeological treasures, making it a smart pick for those eager for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. With knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences, it’s a journey that leaves you with stories and sights to cherish forever.
You can check availability for your dates here: