The jewel on the Nile
Cairo, Egypt
The last one standing. Of the original Seven Wonders of the World, only one is left today: the Pyramids of Giza. And they’re still a wonder to behold, even if the sprawling metropolis of Cairo now laps at the feet of Giza’s pyramids. But don’t dismiss Cairo itself completely. The capital of Egypt is a rough diamond but at the heart of this chaotic urban landscape are incomparable treasures, such as the splendid Grand Egyptian Museum, the new home for Tutankhamun.
Giants of the past
Why come to the pyramids? This isn’t a riddle worthy of the Sphinx. It’s completely obvious once you stand in the sand beside the Great Pyramid of Khufu. It is simply tremendous. And there’s no better way to enjoy the pyramids than with a private lunch in a Bedouin tent beside these grand monuments of antiquity.
Something new for something old
The Egyptian Museum has been wowing the crowds with its wealth of treasures for decades, but the wow factor will soon increase exponentially. In 2023, the Grand Egyptian Museum will open in Giza, so you can enjoy exhibits like the fabulous mask of Tutankhamun in large modern surroundings. The amazing collection of royal mummies is already on display at the new National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation.
A walk on the Nile side
Beyond the pharaohs, you can discover slightly more recent history on a lively walking tour through Islamic Cairo. Huge medieval mosques with opulent interiors tower over narrow streets bursting with local life. No trip to Cairo is complete with some happy haggling in labyrinthine souks of Khan el-Khalili bazaar. You’ll probably buy something – almost everyone does!
A trip to the other pyramids
Yes, Giza doesn’t have a monopoly on pyramids. If monumental stone is your thing, then a trip to Saqqara is the next logical step, not least because it’s home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, which is actually older than its more famous relatives to the north. Plus Saqqara has some of the best-preserved decorated tombs of Ancient Egypt.
Essential Cairo
In terms of Egyptian history, Cairo is a veritable newbie. Although the pharaohs ruled from nearby Memphis (now in ruins), the modern capital of Egypt dates back less than 2000 years. Today, Greater Cairo is home to over 21 million people, making it the largest city in the Arab world, and sprawls across both banks of the River Nile about 165km south of the Mediterranean Sea. Giza is technically a separate city although it’s been swallowed up by Cairo’s expanding suburbs.
Where it is
North Africa
When to go
October to May
Why go there
Ancient history
Antique treasures
Great shopping
What to see
Great Pyramid
Grand Egyptian Museum
Colourful souks
