Cairo in 1 Day for Seniors - Giza pyramids & Great Sphinx
In Collaboration with EgyExcursions. Updated on February 27, 2026.
Full-day guided Cairo tour combining the Giza Plateau (pyramids & Sphinx), the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, Citadel of Saladin and Muhammad Ali Mosque, Coptic Cairo, Khan el-Khalili bazaar, and an evening Nile dinner cruise. Includes hotel pickup, an English-speaking certified guide, air-conditioned transfers and bottled water.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with EgyExcursions, inspired by the tour Citadel of sallahuldin + Coptic city + old market+ dinner cruise . Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Giza pyramids & Great Sphinx
- National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC)
- Citadel of Saladin & Mosque of Muhammad Ali
- Coptic Cairo — Hanging Church & Abu Serga
- Historic Khan el-Khalili bazaar shopping and photoshoot stops
Itinerary
Day 1
Hotel pickup and transfer to Giza Plateau to begin the guided visits following the itinerary backbone (Giza pyramids & NMEC are scheduled first as per the activity).
Hotel pickup & transfer to Giza Plateau
Meet your guide at your hotel; board an air-conditioned vehicle for the journey to the Giza Plateau.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm the pickup time with the operator the evening before; be ready in the hotel lobby 5–10 minutes early.
- Keep ID or a copy of your booking easily accessible for the guide during pickup.
- If mobility assistance is needed, request it in advance so the driver can park as close as possible to the hotel entrance.
Transfer: Hotel to Giza Plateau
Short road transfer across Cairo traffic toward the Giza Plateau.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect moderate traffic; allow the driver to choose the fastest route.
- Carry a small bottle of water (additional water provided on the vehicle).
- Use this time to rest your feet and store cameras safely until arrival.
Great Pyramid of Giza (Khufu)
Guided exterior visit to the Great Pyramid area on the Giza Plateau; photo stops and an introduction to the site’s history.
Tips from local experts:
- The plateau is uneven and can be dusty—wear low-heeled, supportive shoes and a hat.
- Bring sunscreen and a lightweight layer for wind; seating is limited near perimeter viewpoints.
- For safety and comfort, avoid long standing in direct sun; the guide will schedule short seated breaks.
Pyramid of Khafre (Chephren)
Visit the Khafre pyramid area and learn about its construction, orientation and the visible casing stones at the summit.
Tips from local experts:
- This stop involves short walks between viewpoints on slightly sloped terrain—use walking aids if needed.
- There are shaded rest areas near the visitor path; ask the guide for seating if required.
- If you plan to enter any enclosed areas, note that interior spaces can be narrow and have steps.
Pyramid of Menkaure
Short visit to Menkaure pyramid viewpoint and surrounding complexes; photo opportunities and interpretation.
Tips from local experts:
- This is the smallest of the main pyramids; viewpoints are closer together—expect low walking distances.
- Stony pathways may be uneven—use caution and hold railings where provided.
- Carry any necessary medication (e.g., for arthritis) since some stops have limited seating.
Great Sphinx of Giza
Visit the Sphinx for a close view and guided commentary on its history and recent conservation work; photo stop at the Sphinx esplanade.
Tips from local experts:
- The Sphinx esplanade offers benches—use them for brief rests during the explanation.
- Wind can pick up sand; keep cameras and small items secured during photo stops.
- Ask the guide for a quieter spot for photos if crowds gather at the main viewpoint.
Transfer: Giza to National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC)
Drive across Cairo to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization in Old Cairo.
Tips from local experts:
- Traffic between Giza and Old Cairo can vary—use this transfer to rest and hydrate.
- Keep personal items with you on the vehicle; the guide will confirm the meeting point at the museum.
- If you need to use a restroom, ask the guide to allow time before arrival.
National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC)
Guided visit through key galleries presenting Egypt’s history from prehistoric times to modern era, with highlights explained by your guide.
Tips from local experts:
- The museum has elevators and seating—good for visitors preferring step-free access; request slower pacing if needed.
- Photography rules vary by gallery—follow signage and the guide’s instructions.
- Use museum restrooms and benches between galleries to avoid prolonged standing.
Lunch break / Free time
Lunch at a nearby, calm restaurant or a seated break arranged by the guide (time reserved for relaxed dining and rest).
Tips from local experts:
- Choose a seated restaurant with shade and accessible seating; inform the guide of any dietary restrictions in advance.
- Avoid heavy walking immediately after a large meal—use this time to rest and rehydrate.
- If you prefer to bring a packed lunch, let the guide know ahead of time so we can adjust timing.
Citadel of Saladin & Mosque of Muhammad Ali
Visit the Citadel (Saladin Citadel) and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali; enjoy panoramic views over Cairo. Short guided tour concentrating on accessible viewpoints and seating.
Tips from local experts:
- The Citadel has uphill walking and several stair sections—request to stop near accessible viewpoints if needed.
- Mosque interiors require modest dress (shoulders and knees covered); bring a lightweight shawl if needed.
- There are cafés and benches at the Citadel for rest; keep a slow walking pace and hydrate regularly.
Coptic Cairo — The Hanging Church & Abu Serga
Guided walk through Coptic Cairo visiting the Hanging Church (Saint Virgin Mary's) and the nearby Church of Abu Serga (Saint Sergius). Focus on short walks and accessible entry points.
Tips from local experts:
- Many Coptic sites have steps and uneven flooring—use handrails and request seating when available.
- Talk to the guide before entering the churches if you require a slower pace or seating during the visit.
- Photography may be limited inside some churches—follow local signage and clergy instructions.
Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
Walk through the historic Khan el-Khalili market with free time for light shopping, photos, and rest at a café if desired.
Tips from local experts:
- Bargaining is common—decide on a comfortable price range before negotiating and keep exchanges brief.
- Stay close to the guide and use wallets or purses with secure closures; crowded lanes can be busy.
- Look for cafes with seating if you need to rest; the guide can recommend calmer alleys away from the busiest strips.
Transfer to Nile dock
Short transfer from Khan el-Khalili area to the Nile boarding point for the evening cruise.
Tips from local experts:
- Boarding points vary by cruise operator—your guide will confirm the exact dock and boarding instructions.
- Keep a light jacket; evenings on the Nile can be cooler than daytime.
- Have any personal items you’ll need for the cruise (medication, camera) in a small bag for easy access.
Nile Dinner Cruise (Open buffet & live entertainment)
Evening Nile dinner cruise featuring open-buffet dinner, live entertainment including belly dance and Tanoura show, and night views of Cairo from the river.
Tips from local experts:
- Notify the guide in advance of any dietary restrictions so the buffet can be navigated safely.
- Seating on the boat is usually at tables—request an easily accessible table near exits if mobility is a concern.
- The boat decks can be slippery; use handrails when moving around and avoid leaning on railings during navigation.
Return transfer to hotel
Board vehicle for the return drive to your hotel; end of services.
Tips from local experts:
- Have your hotel name and room number handy to confirm the drop-off point with the driver.
- If you are returning late, keep a small light or phone torch for guidance to your hotel entrance.
- If you require assistance with luggage from vehicle to lobby, notify the guide before arrival so the driver can pull up close.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Seniors |
| Transfers | 5 |
| Restaurants | 2 |
| Total Activities | 10 |
| Total Places | 10 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Attraction, Meal, Culture, Shopping |
