• St Simon the Tanner Monastery - Embark on an extraordinary journey to the St. Simon Monastery, a hidden treasure nestled in Cairo’s Mokattam Hills. The drive leads through Garbage City, a vibrant, maze-like community where the Zabbaleen, Cairo’s informal waste collectors, reside and work. The streets are lined with piles of recycled materials, vividly illustrating their impressive recycling system. Although unconventional, the scene is one of resilience, creativity, and industriousness, offering a glimpse into a unique way of life. As the road climbs the Mokattam cliffs, the transformation is remarkable. Upon arrival at the Monastery of St. Simon the Tanner, visitors are welcomed by its breathtaking amphitheater, carved into the mountain, with a capacity to host over 20,000 worshippers. The monastery is adorned with intricate carvings of biblical scenes etched into the rock, and its tranquil ambiance contrasts sharply with the lively chaos of Garbage City below. This tour offers a profound blend of human perseverance and spiritual serenity.
• Coptic Cairo - The guide will lead visitors to the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, known as Abu Serga, one of Egypt’s oldest and most revered churches. Situated in the heart of Coptic Cairo, this sacred site dates back to the 4th century and is famously believed to have sheltered the Holy Family—Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus—during their flight into Egypt. Step inside to admire its simple yet beautiful basilica design, wooden ceiling, marble columns, and ancient icons. Descend into the crypt, where tradition says the Holy Family rested, and feel the spiritual atmosphere that draws pilgrims from around the world. The guide will share captivating stories about the church’s history, its role in early Christianity, and the Coptic heritage of Egypt. This visit offers a rare opportunity to walk in the footsteps of history in one of Cairo’s most peaceful and meaningful landmarks.
• Hanging Church (El Muallaqa, Sitt Mariam, St Mary) - The guide will take visitors on an unforgettable journey to The Hanging Church (El Muallaqa), one of the most famous and oldest Coptic Christian churches in Cairo. Built above the southern gate of the Roman Babylon Fortress, this iconic landmark appears to “hang” over the passage below, giving it its unique name. Admire the stunning wooden ceiling shaped like Noah’s Ark, beautiful icons, intricate carvings, and ancient marble pulpit. Learn about its rich history dating back to the 3rd century AD and its significance as the seat of the Coptic Patriarch for centuries. The guide will share fascinating stories of saints, miracles, and religious traditions that shaped Egypt’s Christian heritage. Explore the church’s peaceful atmosphere, discover hidden details in its artwork, and capture stunning photos of this spiritual treasure in the heart of Old Cairo. This visit offers culture, history, and inspiration all in one.
• Synagogue Ben Ezra - The guide will lead visitors to the historic Ben Ezra Synagogue, a remarkable landmark nestled in the heart of Old Cairo. Steeped in legend and dating back to the 9th century, it is believed to be built on the spot where baby Moses was found in the Nile reeds. Admire its beautiful architecture featuring wooden carvings, marble columns, and intricate geometric designs. Inside, discover the site where the famous Geniza documents—ancient Jewish manuscripts—were uncovered, offering a priceless glimpse into centuries of Middle Eastern Jewish life. The guide will share captivating stories of the Jewish community’s presence in Egypt and the synagogue’s role in religious harmony through the ages. Stroll the surrounding narrow lanes of Coptic Cairo, absorbing the blend of cultures and history that make this destination a must-visit for travelers seeking deeper insight into Egypt’s diverse heritage.

• Private transportation
• Hotel pickup & drop-off
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Bottled water
• Egyptologist guide
• Entry/Admission - St. Sergius and Bacchus
• Entry/Admission - Cave Church
• Entry/Admission - Hanging Church
• Entry/Admission - Ben Ezra Synagogue
• Entry/Admission - St. Simon Monastery
• Entry/Admission - St. Barbara Church

• Gratuities
• Lunch

Embark on a journey through time and delve into the spiritual core of Cairo with this remarkable Half-Day Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery. Accompanied by an expert guide, explore Coptic Cairo, which hosts some of Egypt’s oldest Christian churches. Visit the renowned Hanging Church, perched above a Roman fortress gate, and the revered Abu Serga Church, believed to have provided refuge to the Holy Family. Marvel at the rich history and exquisite architecture of the Ben Ezra Synagogue, a gem of Jewish heritage. Then, travel to Mokattam Mountain to uncover the extraordinary St. Simon the Tanner Monastery, intricately carved into the rock with stunning biblical carvings and housing one of Cairo’s largest churches. Throughout the tour, engage with captivating stories, cultural insights, and hidden treasures that many tourists miss. This experience transcends mere sightseeing—it’s a memorable journey through faith, history, and local culture.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.