Special 2 Day Tour in Cairo (Private Tours)

Discovering Cairo in Two Days: An Honest Review of a Private Tour

Exploring Cairo in just two days might seem ambitious, but this private, semi-inclusive tour aims to pack in some of Egypt’s most iconic sights while offering a comfortable experience. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll cover the Pyramids of Giza, Saqqara, Memphis, Dahshur, and key cultural sites like the Egyptian Museum and Cairo Citadel. What makes this tour stand out? It combines authentic landmarks with expert commentary, all at a reasonable price, wrapped in the convenience of door-to-door transfers.

We particularly appreciate the flexibility of a private tour, the inclusion of well-selected stops, and the opportunity to learn from guides who are both friendly and well-informed. However, travelers should keep in mind that the pace is quite full, and you’ll need to be prepared for a busy schedule. This experience is perfect for history buffs, first-time visitors looking for a rundown, or anyone wanting a hassle-free way to maximize limited time in Cairo without sacrificing depth.

Key Points

Highly knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of Egypt’s sites.
Door-to-door service simplifies logistics, especially with airport or hotel pickups.
Inclusion of meals and entrance fees offers good value, reducing additional expenses.
A well-paced, two-day itinerary covers major highlights without feeling rushed.
Comfortable transportation ensures a smooth journey between sites.
Personalized private experience means your group’s interests shape the day.

Exploring Cairo in Depth: What to Expect from the Tour

This two-day private tour offers a thorough introduction to Cairo’s historic and cultural treasures, making it an excellent choice for travelers eager to see the essentials without the stress of planning each detail. The tour is priced at around $97.15 per person, which many will find reasonable considering the number of famous sites you’ll visit and the convenience of guided commentary.

Day 1: Pyramids, Saqqara, Memphis, and Dahshur

Start your day early with hotel pickup around 8:00 am. The air-conditioned vehicle whisks you away to your first stop: the Pyramids of Giza. Here, you’ll see the majestic Great Pyramid of Cheops, along with the pyramids of Chephren and Mycerinus. These structures are the last remaining wonder from the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and are as awe-inspiring in person as they are in history books. Expect around three hours at Giza, enough time to snap photos from the panoramic view, explore the Valley Temple, and stand next to the iconic Great Sphinx.

Authentic insights and friendly commentary from the guide, Rady, add a layer of richness. According to a reviewer, Rady was “very nice, friendly, knowledgeable,” providing a lot of information and even taking great photos, which means you’ll leave with more than just memories—you’ll have quality pictures to remember the experience.

Next, you’ll visit Saqqara, home to the Step Pyramid of King Djoser. This is a true highlight for history enthusiasts, as it’s considered the world’s oldest major stone structure, built in the 3rd Dynasty. The structure’s unique design offers a glimpse into early pyramid engineering, and the guide will help explain its significance. Expect about two hours here.

Then, the tour moves to Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt. Founded by King Menes, Memphis was a bustling hub for over three millennia, and today it’s littered with archaeological treasures such as the statue of Ramses II and the Alabaster Sphinx. A two-hour stop gives time to wander and appreciate the scale of ancient Egyptian civilization.

The final stop of the day is at Dahshur, famous for the Bent Pyramid and Red Pyramid. These pyramids are less crowded than Giza but equally fascinating, showing the evolution of pyramid construction techniques. Expect around two hours here, with your guide explaining the unique features of each.

After a full day, your guide will transport you back to your hotel, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on the sights seen.

Day 2: Culture and History in Cairo

The second day begins with a pickup at your hotel, again around 8:00 am. The focus is on Egypt’s cultural treasures and historic sites. The Egyptian Museum of Antiquities is your first stop, home to thousands of artifacts, including the legendary treasures of King Tutankhamen. The highlight is the golden mask of the boy king, which is as stunning in person as it is famous. You’ll spend roughly three hours here, with the option to explore the Mummies Hall (extra ticket needed) to see real mummies of ancient Egyptian rulers—an unforgettable experience.

Next, the tour moves to the Cairo Citadel, a fortress that dates back to Salah El-Din’s time. You’ll get sweeping views of Cairo from the citadel walls and visit the Mosque of Mohamed Ali, also known as the Alabaster Mosque. This part of the tour offers a glimpse into Egypt’s Islamic heritage and the city’s skyline. Expect about three hours, including some time for photos and exploring the grounds.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, all fees and taxes, an expert guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off, which take significant stress out of sightseeing. The lunch provided each day adds to the value, allowing you to recharge without worrying about finding suitable options. Entrance fees are included for all main sites, which simplifies budgeting.

However, personal expenses and tips are not included, so it’s worth bringing some cash for souvenirs or gratuities. The flexibility to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance is a helpful feature, especially if your plans change unexpectedly.

Authentic Guide Experience

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. A reviewer named GarciaJovi shared that Rady “picked me up right on time, was very friendly, spoke excellent English, and provided a lot of information on the places we visited.” It’s clear that having a guide who is both informative and personable makes a big difference in how much you get out of your visit.

Timing and Pace

The tour starts early at 8:00 am, giving you most of the day for sightseeing. It’s structured to hit major highlights without feeling overly rushed, though both days are packed. Expect around 3 hours at the museum, 3 hours at the citadel, and similar times at the pyramids and other sites—this means you’ll see a lot but might want to pace yourself if you’re not used to long days outdoors.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes: Many sites involve walking on uneven surfaces and some climbing.
• Bring sunscreen and water: Cairo’s sun can be intense, especially around the pyramids.
• Photography: The tour guide is friendly about photos, but always check if certain areas have restrictions.
• Cash for extras: While meals and entrance fees are included, tips and souvenirs require cash.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour offers a convenient way to see Cairo’s most famous sights without the hassle of organizing transport or guides on your own. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a rundown, history buffs eager for detailed insights, and travelers who prefer personalized attention. The inclusion of meals and entrance fees makes it a good value, especially for those who want a hassle-free experience.

However, if you’re looking for an extremely leisurely pace or want to focus only on specific sites, you might find the schedule a bit intensive. It’s also best suited for those comfortable with busy days and some walking.

Final Thoughts

This two-day private tour in Cairo strikes a strong balance between comprehensive sightseeing and manageable pacing. The expert guides, especially Rady, bring Egypt’s stories to life with friendly, insightful commentary, making history feel vivid and real. The inclusion of transportation, tickets, and meals, combined with the flexibility of door-to-door service, makes it an excellent choice for travelers who want to maximize their time and avoid logistical headaches.

While the itinerary is ambitious, it’s designed to give a thorough introduction to Egypt’s ancient and modern highlights, all in a comfortable, private setting. Whether it’s your first time in Cairo or a return visit, this tour provides a practical, enriching way to experience the city’s iconic sights.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included? Yes, the tour offers door-to-door pickup and drop-off from your hotel, making logistics much easier.

How long are the visits at each site? Expect roughly 3 hours at the Pyramids of Giza and Egyptian Museum, with about 2 hours at Saqqara, Memphis, and Dahshur, and similar times at Cairo Citadel.

Are entrance fees included? Yes, all fees for the sites listed (Giza pyramids, Saqqara, Memphis, Dahshur, Egyptian Museum, Cairo Citadel) are included in the tour price.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

What should I wear? Comfortable shoes and lightweight clothing are recommended, along with sunscreen and a hat for outdoor sites.

Is this tour suitable for children? While not specifically stated, the pace and walking distance suggest it’s best for older children or teenagers comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

Is lunch included? Yes, a tasty daily lunch is provided, reducing the need to find a meal during busy days.

Is this tour good for solo travelers? Absolutely. Since it’s private, solo travelers can enjoy a personalized experience without feeling out of place.

This private two-day tour in Cairo offers a practical, well-rounded way to explore Egypt’s most iconic sites while enjoying expert guidance and comfort. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to make the most of a short trip, with the added peace of mind that comes from a carefully curated itinerary.