For our two days in Egypt, we book a small group tour with Mohamed of Ramasside. Usama, our guide and a separate driver meet our group of 10 (8 adults and 2 children) promptly at the cruise port. During our 2 hour ride to Cairo in an air conditioned van, Usama educates us on the history of Cairo and the surrounding area. He prepares us for the amazing things we will experience over the next two days.
First Stop
We visit Egypt prior to the Arab Spring and the protest that ensued. Therefore, there may be some change to the things we describe below.
Cairo
Our first stop in Cairo is the Pyramids of Giza. We receive a historic overview of the pyramids and Sphinx. While touring the area, our children are able to ride camels around the pyramids. There are a number of vendors on the site, but Usama keeps them from bothering us and helps negotiate pricing when we were ready to make a purchase.
When we visit, climbing onto the pyramids was an option and there are even areas where you could venture inside. We are advised against going inside as the passages are very narrow, very low, very smelly, very dark, and extremely hot.
Antiquities Museum
We visit the Egyptian Antiquities Museum next. The history and artifacts are phenomenal. It is one of the best museums we have been able to visit. In addition to King Tut’s sarcophagus and head dress, there are so many other artifacts and historical exhibits.
Food
During our day, we are taken to a very clean restaurant with traditional Egyptian food. This is where we have traditional Falafel and shawarma for the first time. All of our food is delicious, and this proves to be a great afternoon snack for our day in Cairo.
Shopping
At the beginning of the day, we stop at a jewelry store where we ordered custom cartouches. We return at the end of the day to pick up the beautiful handmade pendants. Beside the jewelry store was another shop where authentic papyrus paintings are made and sold. There are other souvenirs and crafts available for sale. Our purchase of papyrus paintings will be cherished for years to come. They are framed for display in our home.
We have the option to extend our tour further south to visit Luxor, but we decide to return to the ship and tour Alexandria on the next day. As guided tours go, Mohamed of Ramasside is the best tour company we have ever used anywhere in the world. Their attention to detail is exceptional!
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