Giza‘s Most Popular Neighborhood, also known as Al Haram, is located on the west bank of the Nile River and is home to the famous Giza Pyramid Complex, which includes the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure, as well as the Great Sphinx and numerous ancient tombs and temples.
Morning
A typical day for a tourist visiting Al Haram begins early in the morning with a visit to the Giza Pyramid Complex. The complex is open to visitors from 6am to 6pm, and it’s best to arrive early to beat the crowds and the heat. The complex is easily accessible by taxi or tour bus, and there are parking lots available for those who prefer to drive.
The Great Pyramid
The Great Pyramid, also known as the Pyramid of Khufu, is the oldest and largest of the three pyramids in the Giza Pyramid Complex. It is also the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World that still stands today. The pyramid was built around 2560 BC and is estimated to have taken around 20 years to complete. Visitors can take a guided tour of the pyramid and even go inside to explore the chambers and passageways.
The Sphinx
After visiting the pyramids, tourists can take a short walk to the Great Sphinx, a massive statue that stands guard at the entrance to the pyramid complex. The Sphinx is a statue of a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human. The statue is believed to have been built around 2500 BC and is considered to be one of the oldest and most important statues in Egypt.
Afternoon
After visiting the pyramids and the Sphinx, tourists can take a break for lunch at one of the many local restaurants in Al Haram. Many of these restaurants serve traditional Egyptian food, such as koshary, a popular dish made with lentils, rice, and pasta, topped with a spicy tomato sauce.
Islamic Cairo
In the afternoon, tourists can visit Islamic Cairo, which is located in the northeastern part of Al Haram. Islamic Cairo is home to many of Cairo’s most important Islamic monuments, including the Al-Azhar Mosque, the Al-Hakim Mosque, and the Suq al-Silahdar. These monuments, along with the many other Islamic monuments in Al Haram, are a great way for visitors to learn about the Islamic culture and history of Egypt.
Evening
In the evening, tourists can take a sunset boat ride on the Nile River to see the Giza Pyramid Complex from a different perspective. Boat rides can be arranged through most tour companies, and they typically include a traditional Egyptian dinner and entertainment.
Nightlife
After the boat ride, tourists can experience Al Haram’s nightlife. The neighborhood has a variety of bars and clubs that offer live music, and it’s a great way to spend an evening. Some popular spots include the Cairo Jazz Club, the El Sawy Culturewheel, and the El-Sakia band.
Overall, Al Haram is a must-see destination for any tourist visiting Cairo. With its rich history, culture, and monuments, it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in ancient history, Islamic architecture, or just want to experience the local culture and cuisine, Al Haram has it all.
