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09
Beyond Cairo
One extra day can change your trip
Older pyramids, the Mediterranean and desert lakes. Times are estimates, each way from central Cairo.
Day trips
About 1 hr by car
Saqqara & Memphis
Djoser’s Step Pyramid, painted Old Kingdom tombs and the fallen colossus of Ramses II at Memphis. Hire a driver for the day.
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About 1–1¼ hr by car
Dahshur
The Bent and Red Pyramids in open desert; you can go down inside the Red Pyramid. Pair it with Saqqara.
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About 2½–3 hr by train
Alexandria
The Corniche, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Qaitbay Citadel and fresh fish by the sea.
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About 2 hr by car
Fayoum: Wadi El Rayan & Tunis Village
Desert lakes and small waterfalls at Wadi El Rayan, and the pottery village of Tunis above Lake Qarun.
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About 3 hr by car
Wadi Al-Hitan
The UNESCO-listed Valley of the Whales, with ancient whale fossils lying in the sand. Go with a licensed guide and 4x4.
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About 1½ hr by car
Wadi El Natrun monasteries
Some of Christianity’s oldest monasteries, still home to monks, on the desert road to Alexandria.
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About 1 hr by car
New Capital: Al-Fattah Al-Aleem Mosque
One of the largest mosques in Egypt, in the New Administrative Capital; pair it with Masjid Misr nearby.
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Good to know
Book a driver
A private car with driver for the day is the easiest way to see Saqqara, Dahshur and Fayoum; agree the route and price first.
Trains to Alexandria
Book seats on Egyptian National Railways’ app or at Ramses Station; choose a first-class or VIP train.
Start early
Leave after breakfast and be back before dark; desert roads are unlit.
Pack for the sun
Even in November, bring water, hats and sunscreen for open desert sites.
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