Footsteps of the Holy Family

Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, you will meet your Egypt tour specialists’ representative who will assist you with border control, luggage claim, and customs. You will then be transferred by an air-conditioned vehicle to your hotel and be assisted with check-in.

Your Egyptologist, an expert in Christianity in Egypt, will meet you after breakfast. You will be guided around the treasures of Coptic Cairo within the old Fortress of Babylon, exploring the miracle of the 5th-century construction displaying Noah’s Ark, and the Hanging Church. You'll learn the secrets of the magnificent icons and the details of Virgin Mary’s revelation. Next, visit Abu Serga Church, built on a crypt that is considered one of the resting places of the Holy Family during their flight to Egypt. Stop by Ben Ezra Synagogue, a source of knowledge on Jewish culture during World War II. Visit the Church of Virgin Mary in Maadi, where the floating Bible “Blessed my people in Egypt” was found. Afterward, visit the Cave Church of Saint Samaan, a miraculous Cathedral carved in the bedrock of the hills of Mokattam, witnessing the transformation of slums into treasures.

Drive to Tal Basta to visit the ruins of the Ancient Egyptian Temple of Goddess Bastet. Visit the Church of Saint George, where the location of the bleeding tree is found; the tree bled after they tried to cut it down. Drive back to Cairo and on the way, visit the location of the tree commonly known as the Tree of Mary, famous for sheltering the Holy Family.

In the morning, you will be driven in an air-conditioned vehicle through the Cairo-Alexandria Desert Road for 1.5 hours to the ancient Monastery of Saint Bishoy & Monastery of Syrian. Your guide will introduce you to a living monk who will provide insights on the teachings and wisdom of the Copts and their creed. Between the 4th and 7th centuries, Wadi El Natrun was a meeting place for Christians from around the world.

Head early morning to visit the Great Pyramids of Giza, the only present-day survivors of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Explore the Valley Temple where Pharaoh Khafre was mummified and the Sphinx that witnesses the glory of ancient Egypt. Next, explore the astounding Egyptian Museum, showcasing artifacts from the Pharaohs, including mummies, jewelry, and more.

Drive to the Monastery of Gabal Eltair, one of Egypt’s most famous monasteries built by Saint Helena. Learn about the Coptic Orthodox creed and rituals in this fascinating old church.

Drive early in the morning to Al Moharraq Monastery of Virgin Mary, where the footprint of Jesus is found in the main altar. Drive to Drunka, the large cave monastery of Virgin Mary, to witness the simplicity of the churches and the strong faith of the community.

After breakfast, drive across to the west bank and explore the grandeur of architecture in the Valley of the Kings, the hidden burial place for the icons of the New Kingdom. Your Egyptologist will select three tombs to visit according to your preference. Additionally, visit the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, carved into the bedrock, and the Colossi of Memnon, the figures of King Amenhotep.

In the morning, explore the Karnak Temples, the largest religious complex built for a god in history. End your day at the Temple of Luxor, once connected to Karnak via the Avenue of Sphinxes. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Cairo.

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and then transfer with Egypt Tour Specialists’ personnel to Cairo airport for your departure flight.