Egypt Tour: Cairo + Alexandria

Egypt holds a unique position among the world’s civilizations, often referred to as “The Motherland of the World,” “Land of Civilizations,” and “The Greatest Power in Human History.” With a rich history spanning over 7,000 years, Egypt has been a pioneer in science, arts, culture, and architecture, thanks to the fertile banks of the Nile River. The country is synonymous with the magic of the Pharaohs and the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza, the last surviving wonder of the ancient world.

In the 7th century, the arrival of Islam with the Arab conquests transformed Egypt into a major cultural and spiritual heart of the Muslim world. Cairo’s Al-Azhar Mosque, founded in the 10th century, is a source of immense pride, with its teaching institution recognized as the oldest university in existence.

Today, Egypt is home to approximately 81 million people, the vast majority of whom are Muslim. The landscape is marked by the minarets of mosques, where the daily call to prayer echoes across cityscapes. On Fridays, mosques overflow with worshippers, spilling onto sidewalks in an expression of faith. However, Egypt’s religious landscape is not uniform; a significant Christian minority, known as Copts, continue to practice their faith.

Cairo: The Heart of Egypt

Cairo, Egypt’s capital and the largest city in the Arab world, has long been the region’s political and cultural hub. This city is a “Land of Contrasts,” offering visitors a blend of ancient wonders and modern vibrancy. From the endless expanse of desert to the bustling metropolis, Cairo’s duality has attracted travelers for millennia. The Great Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza stand as timeless testaments to its rich past, while the city itself pulses with contemporary life.

Attractions

• Pyramids of Giza: The pyramids can be toured from the outside with wheelchairs, but access to the interior chambers is restricted due to narrow and steep pathways. The nearby Solar Boat Museum is more accessible with ramps, and the sound and light show offers a designated wheelchair area. Wheelchair-accessible bathrooms are available inside.
• Egyptian Museum: The museum features ramps, an elevator, and wide doorways. While the Tutankhamun exhibit is accessible, the Mummies’ room is not. Unfortunately, there are no accessible restrooms.
• Khan El-Khalili Bazaar: Most of the cobblestone alleys are wheelchair accessible, though it’s best to avoid the evening rush when the market becomes crowded.
• Memphis and Saqqara: These sites are accessible but can be challenging due to sand. The 45-minute drive from downtown Cairo can be arduous, so plan accordingly with air conditioning, loose clothing, and plenty of water. No accessible restrooms are available in these areas.
• Coptic Cairo: St. George’s Church and the Coptic Museum are partly accessible, while the Hanging Church and other landmarks require navigating stairs. At the Citadel, if your vehicle is allowed to drive up, you only need to negotiate two steps to enter the mosque. Most other areas may not be accessible.
• Nile Cruises: Cruises between Luxor and Aswan are possible but not specifically adapted for wheelchair users. The crew is generally accommodating, but bathroom accessibility is doubtful.

Alexandria: The Pearl of the Mediterranean

Alexandria, Egypt’s second-largest city, is famed for its moderate climate, sandy beaches, and rich cultural history. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, the city was once a vibrant center of Hellenistic culture and remains an important port city today. Modern Alexandria is undergoing revitalization, striving to regain its historical prominence.

Attractions

• Bibliotheca Alexandrina: This modern library complex is fully wheelchair accessible, with museums dedicated to manuscripts, antiquities, and the history of science. Accessible restrooms are available.
• Roman Amphitheater: An open-air site with limited wheelchair access.
• Pompey’s Pillar and Surrounding Sites: These areas are mostly flat but have unpaved pathways that may require assistance.
• Graeco-Roman Museum: Fully accessible, including restrooms, with displays of historical busts and medieval pottery.
• Montazah Palace: The summer home of King Farouk is set in sprawling gardens with accessible walkways.
• Fort of Qaitbay: While not fully accessible due to its historic nature, visitors in wheelchairs can still explore much of the fort. Pathways are smooth and navigable.

Dining and Culinary Customs

Dining in Egypt varies from casual street food to luxurious meals. Visitors may experience traditional Egyptian hospitality, which includes late-night dinners and an array of local dishes like Ta’meya, beans, and shawarma. While street food is generally safe, be cautious with new cuisines to avoid gastrointestinal upsets.

Accessible Tourism in Egypt

Egypt’s government has made efforts to improve accessibility for travelers with special needs. For example, Cairo Airport features separate counters for the elderly and disabled. While there are challenges, particularly with infrastructure, Egyptian hospitality and resourcefulness make the country increasingly accessible.

Hotels

By law, 5% of hotel rooms in Egypt must be accessible. However, availability can vary. For consistent service, five-star hotels like Le Meridien Pyramids, Radisson Blu, and Mercure Cairo le Sphinx Hotel are recommended for wheelchair accommodations.

Restrooms

Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are uncommon but can be found in luxury hotels. The Art of Travel Egypt is knowledgeable about integrating sightseeing with accessible facilities.