"Cairo, Egypt" a Cairo Travel Page by jaqs

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Arriving at Giza Pyramids

Loved Egypt totally! Everything about it really but in particular I loved the sincere friendliness of the people. I felt totally safe the entire time, was treated with respect everywhere I visited and cant wait to go back.

If you are not up to climbing and then walking through small and narrow tunnels then I suggest you dont attempt to go inside the Pyramids. There is a small area just behind where I am standing in this picture which is where the Senior Builder (Architect/Engineer) of the great pyramids was buried. Its only stepping down a few steps on a ladder to enter and you can actually see the heiroglyphics on the walls in there, some still have the original paint used to colour them.

There are horse and buggies for hire at the pyramids to save walking time (believe me there is a significant walk between each of the three largest ones). Remember flat shoes are a must because as you can see the ground is not even anywhere.

There is a fascinating museum behind this pyramid which houses a wooden boat (Ra Boat) which was discovered recently. Its believed that the boat which has been reconstructed (amazing after all this time) actually carried the blocks from the quarries right up to the pyramids. NB: The Nile used to flood right up to here originally. You will be asked to put on some canvas slippers over your shoes in the museum to protect the environment inside.

There were a few buskers on site but they were polite and did not push themselves forward at all. It was an experience I wanted to have since a small child and I am still in awe even after being there myself. Majestic is an understatement. Try to go on a clear day to see right across into the distance of the desert and you will actually see other smaller pyramids way off in the distance.

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Visiting the Mosque

The atmosphere was so austere and beautiful. I was told that some of the alibaster (marble) that made the mosque was taken originally from the outside of the great pyramids at Giza. Only the very tip of one of the 3 great pyramids still has the alibaster on the outside.

Scarves are not expected but may be appreciated. NB: you do have to remove your shoes before entering the Mosques.

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The Citadel

Outside the Citadel in Cairo with friends. It was built by Alexander the Great.

NB: If you go to the Citadel dont miss out on visiting the War Museum right next door. It was absolutely fascinating and all frescos and displays were created magnificently. I could have spent as much time there as at the Cairo Museum.