Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 10 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church worth booking?
Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church is a 7.1-hour experience in Cairo, Egypt, from $30 per person. It scores 73 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 10 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 73 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (10)
- Duration
- 7.1 hours
- From
- $30 per person
This tour is unique because it combines three different aspects of Egypt in one complete tour - the ancient wonders found at the Giza pyramids; the spiritual beauty found in the cave Church of Saint Simon; and the vibrant culture of the Zabbaleen community who live in Mokattam. Instead of a typical sightseeing tour, this brings visitors closer to both the history and current life of Egypt through the creation of meaningful connections between cultures. Travellers will be guided by educated Egyptologists who, through their expert knowledge of the area, will help provide a greater understanding of not only the well-known sites, but also of local culture, religion, history and community resilience. Each of the stops on this tour provides a unique layer adding to the authenticity of the overall experience and making the tour a much more respectful and memorable experience than other day tours offered in Cairo.
What you get
- Bottled water throughout the tour
- Cave Church visit and spiritual tour
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (Cairo/Giza hotels)
- All entrance fees to pyramids and monuments
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Traditional Egyptian lunch at local restaurant
About this experience
This tour is unique because it combines three different aspects of Egypt in one complete tour - the ancient wonders found at the Giza pyramids; the spiritual beauty found in the cave Church of Saint Simon; and the vibrant culture of the Zabbaleen community who live in Mokattam. Instead of a typical sightseeing tour, this brings visitors closer to both the history and current life of Egypt through the creation of meaningful connections between cultures. Travellers will be guided by educated Egyptologists who, through their expert knowledge of the area, will help provide a greater understanding of not only the well-known sites, but also of local culture, religion, history and community resilience. Each of the stops on this tour provides a unique layer adding to the authenticity of the overall experience and making the tour a much more respectful and memorable experience than other day tours offered in Cairo.
What's included
Included
- Bottled water throughout the tour
- Cave Church visit and spiritual tour
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (Cairo/Giza hotels)
- All entrance fees to pyramids and monuments
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Traditional Egyptian lunch at local restaurant
- Mokattam Community guided experience
- Professional English-speaking Egyptologist guide
Not included
- Gratuities (for tour guide, and driver)
- Entrance fees
What you'll see and do
Pick Up from the Requested Location by your tour guide ( If the hotel is out of range driver will make the pick up) to start your Journey across Cairo heading to the Great Pyramids of Giza where you will enjoy The pyramid of King Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinos. Then, the tour will continue by vising the Valley Temple of Khafre, where is located the reception of the royal body of Khafre. The Valley Temple was built for the process of mummification of King Khafre. Finally, you will have a close-up look of the Great Sphinx, the guardian of the Pyramids with a body of a lion and the head of King Khafre. (please note that entering the pyramids from inside requires a special ticket, the guide will be happy to assist).
60 minutes here · Admission included
The Great Pyramid of Khufu
Khufu's pyramid is the only wonder of the ancient seven wonders still remains and standing today!! the highest building on earth for more than 3800 Years, the complex consists of a valley temple, now buried beneath the village of Nazlet el-Samman; diabase paving and nummulitic limestone walls have been found but the site has not been excavated yet, with your advanced Egyptologist you will be able to explore the entire area.(Please note that entering the great pyramid from inside requires special ticket, guide will be happy to assist)
60 minutes here · Admission included
Pyramid Complex of Khafre
The Second highest pyramid in the complex is dedicated to king Chefren or Khafre, the entire complex is still in good condition so with your Egyptologist you will explore the valley temple and the causeway of king Khafre. ( Please note that entering the pyramids from inside that is requires a special ticket. ( Guide will be happy to assist).
60 minutes here · Admission included
Pyramid of Menkaure
The Smallest pyramid in Giza plateau, now it is about 61m high, Menkaure pyramid is very special because of the granite outer layer still remains on the lower part of the pyramid, the granite was quarried from Aswan over 1000 kilometers away from Giza.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Panoramic View of the Pyramids
Next, a visit to a panoramic view of the 6 pyramids, and the city of Giza, were you will stay there for 30 minutes to take photos and enjoy the view, The panorama is amazing place to enjoy the camel ride.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Great Sphinx
With the same Entry Ticket to the pyramids area you will have a close-up look of the Great Sphinx, the guardian of the Pyramids with a body of a lion and a head of King Khafre. You will have all the time to take the pictures you want with an assistance from our guide, They are expert photographers also. then you will start your journey back to your hotel.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Explore one of Cairo’s most thought-provoking and lesser-known areas in the Zabbaleen community of Mokattam. Travelers will gain a deeper understanding of local life, hear the story of a community that has played a major role in Cairo’s recycling system for generations, and experience a side of the city rarely included in standard tours. This visit adds meaningful cultural context to the day and offers a more complete view of Cairo’s people, history, and daily realities.
60 minutes here · Admission included
St Simon the Tanner Monastery
Discover one of Cairo’s most surprising hidden gems at St. Simon “The Tanner” Monastery, the famous Cave Church carved into the Mokattam hills. Travelers will explore impressive rock-hewn churches, see dramatic biblical carvings and religious artwork, and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere inside one of the city’s most unique spiritual landmarks. This visit offers a fascinating look into Cairo’s Coptic heritage, local community life, and a side of the city most visitors never see.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
VIP OPTION
VIP OPTION: Offer all Option benefits and entrance fees all fees bottle of water Pickup included
Transportaion Only
Transport Option: Offer Transport Only Vehicle type: Sedan Pickup included
Car and guide
Car and Guide Option: offer Transport and guide bottle of water Duration: 8 hours Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- de, en, it, fr, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Nile Navigators
Know before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 10 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Organization
5 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Knowledge and storytelling
3 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
2 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
10 verified traveler reviews for Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Enjoyable day direct by Nile navigators.
I had a great solo experience with Nile Navigators, The tour was well organized, the guide was friendly and knowledgeable, and everything went smoothly, Nile Navigators is a really good operation and made the whole experience enjoyable.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful review following your recent private tour with Nile Navigators! We are absolutely thrilled to read your kind words and to hear that you had such a memorable solo travel experience with us while exploring Cairo. Solo travel can sometimes feel like a daunting venture, but our goal at Nile Navigators is always to ensure that our independent travelers feel fully supported, safe, and engaged every step of the way. We are delighted that our team’s organization, seamless planning, and attentiveness allowed you to relax completely and immerse yourself in the unique highlights of your journey—from the iconic Pyramids of Giza to the extraordinary history of Garbage City and the breathtaking Cave Church of St. Simon. Providing knowledgeable, friendly, and professional guides who can bring Egypt's rich history to life while maintaining a smooth and stress-free schedule is the cornerstone of our operation. Hearing that our guide made a positive impact on your day and that everything went so smoothly truly means the world to our entire team. Your glowing feedback and 5-star rating serve as a fantastic motivation for all of us to keep delivering exceptional experiences to guests from around the globe. It was an honor to host you, and we sincerely hope to welcome you back to Egypt for another unforgettable adventure along the Nile in the future! Warmest regards,
via Tripadvisor
More Than Just the Pyramids
This tour combined some of Cairo’s most fascinating places into one memorable day. Seeing the Pyramids was incredible, but visiting Garbage City and the impressive St. Simon Church added a completely different side of the city’s story. One moment that really stayed with me was stepping inside the vast church carved into the mountain after walking through the busy streets outside. The contrast made the experience feel unique and unforgettable.
Response from the operator: Dear Aaliyah, Thank you so much from the very bottom of our hearts for taking the time to share such a thoughtful, beautiful, and deeply moving review of your private tour with us! Reading your kind words has truly brought bright smiles to our entire team's faces today. It warms our hearts immensely to know that your day exploring Cairo left such a lasting impression on you. While the majestic Pyramids of Giza are undeniably an iconic wonder of the world, we always strive to show our guests the true, soulful heart of Cairo—the rich layers, deep history, and unique human stories that make this city so vibrant and unforgettable. Your description of stepping inside the breathtaking St. Simon Monastery (the Cave Church) after traveling through Garbage City was absolutely poetic. That striking transition—from the bustling, industrious streets to the sudden, awe-inspiring tranquility of a magnificent sanctuary carved directly into the Moqattam mountain—is a moment that touches so many hearts, and we are so thrilled that it resonated with you so deeply. Knowing that this contrast created a unique and unforgettable memory for you is the greatest reward our team could ever ask for. It was an absolute honor and a pleasure to guide you through Cairo’s wonderful hidden gems and iconic sites. Travelers like you, who open their hearts to discovering every unique side of our city, are the reason we love what we do every single day. We send you our warmest wishes and warmest Egyptian hospitality from Cairo! We would be beyond delighted and thrilled to welcome you back again in the future for even more incredible adventures. Until we meet again, may your life be filled with wonderful journeys, beautiful memories, and unforgettable travels! With heartfelt gratitude and warmest regards,
via Tripadvisor
A Day Full of Cairo’s Hidden Stories
This tour gave me a great chance to see different sides of Cairo in one day. The Pyramids were the highlight, but visiting the other areas made the experience more special. The atmosphere was enjoyable, the crowd size was comfortable, and the staff were welcoming and organized. I still remember the moment I stood near the pyramids watching the view and feeling the history around me. It was a memorable experience with great value.
Response from the operator: Dear lunal11, Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful feedback, which we have carefully reviewed as shown in **image.png**. We are thrilled to hear that our Private Tour of the Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City, and St. Simon Church provided such a memorable experience for you. It is fantastic to know that you enjoyed both the awe-inspiring view of the Pyramids and the unique insights into the other areas we visited. We strive to provide organized, welcoming, and valuable tours, so we are delighted that our staff met those expectations for you. Your kind words mean a lot to our team. We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back to Cairo in the future for more adventures! Best regards,
via Tripadvisor
mazing day covering the Pyramids, Sphinx, Garbage City
mazing day covering the Pyramids, Sphinx, Garbage City, and St. Simon Church. The experience felt diverse and well-paced, with fair admission. Atmosphere ranged from historic to local and authentic. Crowds were busy at Giza but calmer elsewhere. Staff were friendly and organized
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful feedback with us! We are thrilled to hear that you had an 'mazing' day covering the Pyramids, Sphinx, Garbage City, and St. Simon Church. It’s great to know that you appreciated the diverse itinerary and the pacing of the tour. I will be sure to pass your kind words along to our staff for being friendly and organized—they will be delighted to hear they made a positive impact on your experience. We hope to welcome you back for
via Tripadvisor
Wonderful Journey Through Cairo
This tour was well organized from start to finish. Standing in front of the Giza Pyramids was unforgettable, and Garbage City and St. Simon Church were unlike anything I had seen before. A real highlight was pausing for a few minutes to enjoy the view and take photos. The guide kept everything smooth, making the day enjoyable and stress-free
Response from the operator: Thank you for the 5 stars! We're so glad the organization, the unforgettable Pyramids view, and the unique vibe of Garbage City and St. Simon Church stood out to you. Pausing to take it all in is what it's all about
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 7.1 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $30 to $100
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 4
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 73
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Cairo.
How much does Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church cost?
+
Prices start at $30 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Cairo usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church take?
+
Plan for about 7.1 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Cairo is not rushed.
Is Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 73 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 10 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Cairo, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church?
+
Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 7.1-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church?
+
Around 4 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Cairo can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
+
Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Cairo and add a light layer if any part of the 7.1-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church start and how do I get there?
+
The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Cairo within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Cairo?
+
On Outty we rank every Cairo experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include All-in-One Giza Tour, inside Pyramid, sphinx, Camel ride & lunch, VIP Private Giza Pyramids, Sphinx Tour –Inside the Pyramids&More, Best of Cairo Private Giza Pyramids, Sphinx and Grand Museum Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Cairo?
+
Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Cairo?
+
Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
+
Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church?
+
Included: Bottled water throughout the tour; Cave Church visit and spiritual tour; Hotel pickup and drop-off (Cairo/Giza hotels); All entrance fees to pyramids and monuments; and In-vehicle air conditioning. Not included: Gratuities (for tour guide, and driver); and Entrance fees. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church include hotel pickup?
+
Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 2000 listed pickup locations in and around Cairo. Be ready about 10 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church offered in?
+
It is offered in German, English, Italian, French and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church?
+
Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church wheelchair or stroller accessible?
+
The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Specialized infant seats are available; and All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church if the weather is bad?
+
It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Cairo. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church?
+
Across 10 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include organization, knowledge and storytelling, the guide. Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
What booking options are available for Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church?
+
There are 3 options to choose from, including VIP OPTION, Transportaion Only, Car and guide. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church.
Pick your date
