Cairo Day Tour from Hurghada - Pyramids, GEM & Citadel

Four of Egypt's landmarks in one day, in an order that makes sense: the Pyramids first while you are fresh, lunch, the Grand Egyptian Museum, and the Citadel at the end for the view over the city.

The Giza Plateau

You start at the Great Pyramid, built around 2560 BC and the only survivor of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Then the Sphinx, and the Valley Temple beside it - a granite hall of massive simplicity that most tours walk past, and one of the best-preserved Old Kingdom structures anywhere.

Lunch

At a local restaurant, included in the price. Egyptian food is worth your attention: mezze, grilled meats, bread out of the oven. Tell us about dietary requirements in advance and we will arrange them.

The Grand Egyptian Museum

Minutes from the Pyramids, and the largest archaeological museum in the world. Your Egyptologist will focus your visit rather than let you drift - which is the right approach when a building holds 100,000 objects and you have part of an afternoon.

The Citadel of Salah El-Din

The end of the day and a deliberate change of era. Built by Saladin in the 12th century to defend Cairo, the fortress dominates the skyline and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali inside it is one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture in Egypt. From the walls you see the whole city, and on a clear day the Pyramids you stood beneath that morning.

Good to know before you book

• Around 18 hours in total. It is a long day and worth every hour, but plan a slow one afterwards.
• A professional Egyptologist guide, lunch, bottled water and private air-conditioned transport are included.
• Drinks, souvenirs, personal expenses, photography permits for certain galleries and any optional extras are not included. Confirm with us at booking which site entry tickets are covered, so there are no surprises at a gate.
• A $5 per person supplement applies from Makadi, Sahl Hasheesh, El Ahyaa, El Gouna and Soma Bay.
• Dress: shoulders and knees covered for the mosque inside the Citadel, and shoes that slip off easily.
• Camel and horse handlers at Giza are persistent. Agree a price before you get on anything, and a firm, friendly no is enough.

$75 per person (regular price $90).