Private Tour to Cave Church of St. Simon

5.0 (5 reviews) Cairo, Egypt
Duration4h - 6h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

Go beyond Cairo's famous monuments and discover a remarkable destination that many visitors never see. This private tour offers an intimate look at the Cave Church of St. Simon, one of the largest churches carved into a mountain, while providing valuable insight into the inspiring story of the Zabaleen community. With a dedicated local guide, private transportation, and a flexible itinerary, you'll have plenty of time to explore, ask questions, and appreciate the site's history, architecture, and spiritual significance without the crowds. It's an enriching experience that reveals a different side of Cairo—one shaped by resilience, faith, and community.

What's included

  • Private English Egyptologist guide
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • All Transfers by Private A/C latest Model Vehicle
  • Entry Fees + Lunch
  • Bottle Water
  • Tipping
  • Any additional request that is not included on the itinerary is Excluded.

What to expect

  1. Cairo
    45m
    Meet your private guide at your hotel in Cairo or Giza and travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle toward the Mokattam Hills. During the drive, you'll gain insight into Cairo's diverse neighborhoods and the fascinating story behind one of the city's most extraordinary hidden landmarks.
  2. Manshiyat Naser
    1h · Admission ticket included
    Pass through the unique district of Manshiyat Naser, home to Cairo's Zabaleen community, who have developed one of the world's most efficient informal recycling systems. Your guide will explain how this remarkable neighborhood has evolved over the decades and the important role its residents play in the city's daily life, offering a deeper understanding of a side of Cairo that few visitors experience.
  3. Cave Church
    2h · Admission ticket included
    Discover the breathtaking Cave Church of St. Simon, carved directly into the limestone cliffs of Mokattam Mountain. Admire its enormous open-air amphitheater, impressive stone carvings, and peaceful atmosphere while learning about the history of St. Simon the Tanner and the miracle associated with the nearby mountain. Explore the church's chapels, biblical reliefs, and panoramic viewpoints as your guide shares the significance of this important pilgrimage site for Egypt's Coptic Christian community.
  4. 35m
    Before leaving the area, enjoy sweeping views across Cairo from the Mokattam Hills. This elevated viewpoint offers an excellent opportunity to capture memorable photographs of the city's sprawling skyline stretching toward the horizon.
  5. Cairo
    45m
    After your visit, relax during the drive back to your hotel in Cairo or Giza, reflecting on an inspiring journey through one of Egypt's most unique religious and cultural landmarks.

Meeting and pickup

Pickup details

Our driver and representative will wait for you at the reception desk of your accommodation holding a sign with your name on it.

Additional information

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

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

Reviews

5.0 (5)
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$65.00 per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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