Desert Monasteries of Wadi El Natron-Private tour from Cairo
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6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Chance to take a look at some fine examples of Coptic art
Spend a day in a desert oasis in Egypt
Visit three fascinating Christian Monasteries
All entrance fees are included
Relish a delicious lunch at a local restaurant
Hotel pick up and drop off and round trip transportation are included
Available options
Desert Monasteries of Wadi El Natron-Private tour from Cairo
Pickup included
What's included
WiFi on board
Lunch
Entrance fees to the monasteries
Bottled water
Qualified tour guide
Hotel pick up and drop off in air-conditioned vehicle
All taxes and service charge
Detailed itinerary
1
In the morning, you will be picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle from your hotel in Cairo. Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, you will be taken to the Oasis of Wadi El Natroun situated about 100 kilometres northwest of Cairo. One of the most
significant places in the Western Desert, it is a geological salt lakes vale indented in the desert that owes its name to the Natroun salt. The place has many monasteries and deserves a visit for their fine examples of Coptic art. You will visit the following sites:
• Monastery of the Romans (Deir El Baramus): It is one of the oldest sites in Wadi and houses five churches. The area is traditionally famous for being the spot where two Roman priests fled the Christian persecution, have stayed here and established this monastery. You will come across the Church of the El-Adra, Church of Anba Tadrous, Church of St. John the Baptist, Chapel of Mari Gerges and Church of angel Michael.
Monastery of the Syrians (Deir Al-Sorian): The monastery was named after Syrian monks who inhabited this place in the 8th century. You will come across exquisite wall paintings in its Church of The Virgin Mary.
Monastery of St. Bishoi (Deir Anba Bishoi): The monastery is named after the patron saint Bishoi who immigrated to the site and lived in solitude. You will come across 5 churches and the main one is the St. Bishoi church which contains remains of the saint and two charming chapels.
Stop for lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, you will be dropped back to your hotel in Cairo.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Giza
Giza, home to the iconic Great Pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx, is a city steeped in ancient history and modern intrigue. Just a short distance from Cairo, Giza offers a blend of ancient wonders and bustling urban life, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.
Top Attractions
Great Pyramids of Giza
The iconic Great Pyramids, including the Pyramid of Khufu, Pyramid of Khafre, and Pyramid of Menkaure, are the last standing wonders of the ancient world.
Historical
Half day to full day
Moderate (Entrance fees apply)
Great Sphinx of Giza
The enigmatic Sphinx, with the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh, is a symbol of ancient Egypt and a must-see attraction.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate (Entrance fees apply)
Solar Boat Museum
This museum houses the reconstructed solar boat of Pharaoh Khufu, discovered near the Great Pyramid.
Historical
1 hour
Moderate (Entrance fees apply)
Saqqara
Saqqara is an ancient burial ground and home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest stone pyramid in Egypt.
Historical
Half day to full day
Moderate (Entrance fees apply)
Dahshur
Dahshur is an ancient royal necropolis featuring the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, both built by Pharaoh Sneferu.
Historical
Half day to full day
Moderate (Entrance fees apply)
Camel Market
The Camel Market is a unique and bustling market where you can see and buy camels, as well as experience traditional Egyptian commerce.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free (Purchases extra)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Koshari
A hearty dish made with lentils, rice, pasta, chickpeas, and fried onions, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and garlic vinegar.
Dinner
Vegetarian
Ful Medames
A traditional breakfast dish made from slow-cooked fava beans, often served with tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil.
Breakfast
Vegan
Grilled Kofta
Spiced minced meat (usually lamb or beef) shaped into sausages and grilled to perfection.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat
Molokhia
A green leafy vegetable soup, often served with chicken or rabbit and eaten with bread.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian (if made without meat)
Popular Activities
Hot air balloon rides over the pyramids
Quad biking in the desert
Spa treatments
Beach visits in Alexandria
Visiting museums and historical sites
Attending traditional Egyptian performances
Boat tours on the Nile
Visiting historical sites during the cooler months
Best Time to Visit
October to April
This period offers the most comfortable weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The temperatures are mild, making it ideal for exploring the ancient sites.
15-28°C
59-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Giza is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
- • Avoid accepting help from strangers, especially at tourist sites.
- • Use reputable tour companies and guides.
Getting there
By air
- Cairo International Airport • 25 km from Giza
By train
Giza Station
By bus
Giza Bus Station, Downtown Cairo Terminals
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Giza. They are affordable but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Careem
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Pyramids Road
Downtown Giza
Haram
Day trips
Cairo
20 km • Half day to full day
Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is a vibrant city with a rich history and numerous attractions, including the Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo, and Coptic Cairo.
Saqqara
20 km • Half day to full day
Saqqara is an ancient burial ground and home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest stone pyramid in Egypt.
Dahshur
30 km • Half day to full day
Dahshur is an ancient royal necropolis featuring the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, both built by Pharaoh Sneferu.
Festivals
Cairo International Film Festival • November (dates vary)
Eid al-Fitr • End of Ramadan (dates vary)
Coptic Christmas • January 7
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the ancient sites and their significance.
- Visit the pyramids early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the intense heat.
- Bargain politely but firmly when shopping at markets and souks.
- Carry small bills and coins for easier transactions, as change can be hard to come by.
- Learn a few basic Arabic phrases to enhance your interaction with locals and show respect for their culture.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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