Over the past two years I have become addicted to travelling, and I find a way to escape to the mountains, the desert, or the beach at least twice a month. But these trips have barely scratched the surface of the million hidden treasures this country has to offer. What this also means is that every month there are at least a couple of weekends where my passion is left to dwindle while I sit in traffic.
When we travel to a new city, no matter how small, we look for amazing places, but when in Cairo, our own home and one of the richest destinations in the world, we Cairenes spend our free time going on the same outings and meeting the same people.
But now that I am completely addicted to travel, I have started to look at my own home through fresh eyes, with a sense of discovery. Here are a few day trips that will make you too feel like an explorer discovering Cairo anew.
Dahshur
About 60 kilometres from central Cairo, the Dahshur area–which technically is part of Greater Cairo–is a completely different world. As we got closer to our destination, there were fewer and fewer cars on the roads, and instead palm trees became more and more visible. Driving through fields and past tall palm trees is, for a city resident, an incredibly relaxing–and foreign–sight
Mokattam
This is hands down the most fun adventure you can have in Cairo. Located right next to the Mokattam monastery, the place is managed by a very friendly Polish man named Mario. The only downside to this magnificent place is the route to get there; we had to drive through the entire garbage-gathering district, which means dealing with both the smell and the narrow streets. The residents are however very friendly and helpful, and the route itself is not over-complicated.
The Religions’ Complex/Coptic Cairo
While well-known to tourists, for some reason I only discovered the magic of this place as an adult. Where else on earth can you visit a mosque, a church, and a synagogue in such a small area?
To enjoy the full experience, try to go during a week day, around 9am. I know it’s not an ideal option, but otherwise you will find the place very crowded. I went twice; the first time was mid-week and we were the only ones there, while the second time was a Friday, and we were joined by half of Cairo.
The hidden gems of Downtown Cairo
One of the main beauties of Egyptians is that we as a nation are late risers; this translates to empty streets on weekend mornings.
To take advantage of this sense of calm, you can’t miss a morning coffee in Alfi Street, which is for pedestrians only. The cafes there don’t offer top-notch coffee, so bring your own and sit in the central square surrounded by historic buildings, and watch the people pass by.
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