To get a feel for what to expect, here are some ideas for a day trip in Egypt: Pyramids of Giza, Valley of the Kings, and Temples. If you have never been to Egypt, these tips will help you plan your trip. Once you’ve figured out where to go, you can get a feel for the rest of the country. After all, what’s Egypt without the Pyramids?
Pyramids of Giza
If you’re planning a day trip to Egypt, don’t overlook a visit to the Pyramids of Giza. These amazing structures were built by the Pharaoh Khufu, also known as Cheops. These pyramids are a perfect example of the pharaonic love affair with the Nile. Stepping into the Pyramid of Khufu will take you through a multi-level chamber where bats lived.
Sphinx
A Sphinx day trip is an ideal way to see the colossal sculpture in all its glory. The Great Sphinx was created about 5,000 years ago. The statue was found near a tomb of Amenhotep II, king of Egypt from 1929 to 1895 B.C. A prince named Thutmose, son of Amenhotep II, happened to fall asleep in the statue’s shadow. When he awoke, he was met by a voice calling itself “Harmakhet,” which offered to help him become pharaoh.
Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Kings is a large site that has captivated archeologists for the past two centuries. It features over 65 tombs from different Egyptian dynasties, although not all of them are open to the public. Most are closed for restoration work, and the rest are rotated to minimize traffic. The Valley of the Kings day trip in Egypt will include three additional tombs, which you can access with extra tickets.
Temples
The North Colossus was one of the most visited monuments during the Roman Imperial period. This huge statue, standing over a vast valley, once emanated a musical note at sunrise. The sound was said to be Memnon greeting his mother Eos. The sound stopped when Emperor Septimus Severus restored the upper part of the statue. The monument was once the home of Amenophis III’s temple.
Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan
The Madrassa-Mosque of Sultan Hassan is a monumental Islamic monument, which stands in the shadow of the Citadel. It was built during the reign of the Mamluk ruler Sultan Hassan in the 14th century. It is one of the largest mosques in the world, covering an area of 7906 square meters. The mosque features a huge wooden dome and 2 minarets. Its architecture is so impressive that even modern visitors are impressed.
Cairo Tower
If you are planning a visit to Egypt, then consider taking a day trip to Cairo Tower. This iconic landmark is located on Gezira Island, just a short distance from Downtown Cairo. You can climb the tower for 200 LE or dine at the Revolving Restaurant at the top for 250 LE. You’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Cairo. Day trips from Cairo include visits to Saqqara and Dahshur. You can also visit Memphis, Egypt’s first capital. You can also visit the interesting open air museum in Memphis.