Sep 05, 2023
By Goodnight Staff 
With its bustling city streets, ancient monuments, and vibrant culture, Cairo is a must-visit destination in Egypt. But beyond the iconic pyramids, there is plenty of nature to explore in and around the city.
From lush oases to majestic mountains, there are plenty of natural attractions to experience in Cairo. From the majestic splendor of the White Desert to the tranquility of Al-Azhar Park, here are 15 natural attractions in and around Cairo that will take your breath away. Take a look and discover the beauty of Cairo’s natural wonders!
In 2005, with funds from the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, what had been a mountain of garbage was transformed into a new park.
Its designers drew inspiration from historic Islamic gardens, transforming the park into a lush green space with plenty of activities and a stunning vista overlooking historic Cairo.
The park includes a hilltop lookout kiosk, an amphitheatre, a children’s play area, playing fields, and a historical wall promenade. It also incorporates a microcredit program for residents to help them improve their dwellings and businesses.
Throughout the park, you’ll find a wide variety of features, including fountains, emerald grass, and a lake. You can also sit by one of the restaurants and enjoy the breath taking views of the city.
This park is a favorite amongst Cairenes, especially on weekends when families enjoy picnics here. It’s also a great place to go for an afternoon of sightseeing.
If you’re looking for a place to relax, take in the scenery, and breathe fresh air, Al-Azhar Park is a great option. It’s filled with plenty of gardens and features a variety of fountains and water features.
The Park is also home to several different museums and attractions, making it a great place for history buffs and those who enjoy spending time outdoors. It’s a great way to learn about Egypt’s culture and history while enjoying the beauty of nature.
Before the construction of Al-Azhar Park began, it was a large rubbish dump, containing more than 80,000 truckloads of material. During the excavation, a 12th-century Ayyubid wall was discovered underneath the pile of trash.
During the park’s construction, this ancient wall was restored, and it is now used to link the Park with the nearby Darb al-Ahmar district. It is an interesting example of how a historic structure can be transformed into a new building.
The Park is one of Cairo’s largest parks, and it’s popular with both locals and tourists. The best time to visit is during the springtime, as this is when most of the flowers and plants are in bloom.
In every city, there are privileged districts where the affluent population is concentrated, living in large houses surrounded by luxury and exclusive boutiques, close to tourist attractions. In Cairo, Zamalek is one of these districts.
This residential district is based on Gezira Island, the main island in the Nile River in central Cairo. It is home to many of the city's most affluent residents and is also where you can find some of Cairo's best-known landmarks.
It is dominated by the Cairo Tower, which is a cylindrical construction inlaid with a mosaic that stands 187 meters tall and is topped with a lotus flower. Its panoramic views of Cairo are breath taking on a clear day and you should go up to see them.
There are also many other interesting attractions in Zamalek. For instance, you can visit the Gezira Sporting Club, which is a large multi-sports center that is popular among locals and foreigners alike.
Located on a large island of the Nile, cosmopolitan Zamalek is a highly desirable Cairo district that features quiet leafy streets and ancient apartments.
It is one of the most affluent and sophisticated areas in Greater Cairo and is considered to be a favored residential area for many European expatriates.
It is also the home of several museums that feature stunning collections. Some of these include the Cairo Opera House, which is a grand riverside venue for performing arts, and the Museum of Modern Egyptian Art, which features paintings and sculptures from the 20th and 21st centuries.
The Museum of Islamic Ceramics is another notable attraction, and it has a collection of more than 10,000 works. It is a must-visit if you want to learn more about Egyptian history and culture.
The best time to visit Zamalek is October through April when the weather is calm and the crowds are smaller. This makes it easier to enjoy its attractions without fighting for space. It is also less expensive to visit during this period, so it is worth considering.
Nilometers were a common feature in ancient Egypt and they were used to measure the height of the Nile River’s annual flood. They were built in both Pharaonic and Roman times and were still used until the Aswan Dam rendered them obsolete in the 1960s.
These devices were often located in temples and had three main features: a well with a culvert to communicate with the river, a pillar marked with a certain number of cubits, and underground canals that were used to track the Nile’s rising and falling water level.
The nilometer’s readings were vital to the Egyptians, who could use them as an indicator of whether the flood was ideal or not.
The nilometer was one of the first ways that ancient Egyptians learned to measure and track the height of the Nile’s annual flood. This was important because it determined the calendar and gave farmers an indication of when the next crop would be harvested.
If the Nile’s level was too high, it was considered a sign of drought and famine, while if it was too low, it was a harbinger of floods that could destroy all crops.
The nilometer is an impressive example of how Egypt adapted concepts from physics to determine the water level in the river. It consists of a well topped with an octagonal column that acts as a scale to measure the depth of the water.
During the Pharaonic era, three main types of nilometers were calibrated in Egyptian cubits. The simplest type was a tall column housed in a temple or other sacred building.
Another type of nilometer consisted of a corridor with stairs leading down to the river. These nilometers had indicative markings carved on regular intervals that would tell people how far the water had flooded.
One of the most prominent nilometers in Cairo is located on Roda Island. This one was constructed in AD 861 and is still standing today.
Located in the suburbs of Zahraa El Maadi, a short car ride from Cairo, Wadi Degla is a popular place to visit. It’s a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and offers some incredible views, native wildlife, and many different activities to explore.
It’s also a great place for hikers, cyclists, rock climbers, and nature lovers alike! There are numerous trails to choose from that offer breath taking views of the canyon and the surrounding desert.
The most popular trail is a 10.5 km long run that begins at the entrance and ends in the middle of the canyon. It features scenic views of the canyon rocks, two dams, and desert plants & wildlife.
It’s a fantastic spot for a scenic and moderately challenging trail run. You’ll also find plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the scenery along the way.
It was designated a protectorate in 1999 by the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency and covers 60 square km of desert land.
The reserve is well-known for its spectacular limestone terrain, which includes deep winding canyons formed by ancient Nile River floodwaters. There are also many fossils buried in the rock formations.
There are a lot of activities that can be done in this area, including camping and hiking. The natural environment here is ideal for a relaxing break from everyday stress.
You can explore the area by hiring a guide or driving your car. This is a great way to see the surrounding areas and learn about the different species that live here.
You can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as mountain biking, and jogging. You can even enjoy a picnic in the area. Whether you are traveling alone or with your family, this is a place that is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.
The Nile River is one of Egypt’s most iconic natural attractions. Not only is it a vital source of water for this south-eastern country, but it’s also an incredibly interesting piece of history.
It flows across ten countries and is the longest river in the world. It begins in Ethiopia and is joined by two tributaries, the White Nile and the Blue Nile.
These tributaries are not only important for the flow of the Nile, but also for the culture and people that live along it. The yearly flooding of the Nile has served as a source of food and prosperity for this region of Africa for thousands of years.
As a result, it’s no wonder that this river is the basis for many Egyptian traditions and beliefs. One of these is the annual Wafaa El-Nil festival, held each August.
The Nile River is one of Africa’s most iconic and important rivers. It flows through many different ecosystems, affecting a variety of wildlife. Its waters provide a crucial resource for fish, birds, and mammals that rely on the river’s water and fertile soil.
The most famous of these animals is the Nile crocodile, which can be found in many parts of the river’s banks. It’s the largest crocodile in Africa and can grow up to 16 feet long.
Another notable animal is the hippopotamus, which can also be found along the river’s banks. This majestic animal can survive in the wild thanks to its size and strength, making it a formidable opponent for other predators.
The Nile River is a huge source of pride and wealth for Egypt, and it’s also responsible for bringing forth the agrarian culture of this country.
It also played a big role in developing papyrus, a plant that grows as tall reeds in the river’s shallow water. Ancient Egyptians harnessed these plants to create paper, and it was a staple of their culture.
The Western Desert is one of the largest and most diverse natural attractions in Egypt. Its 700,000 km-square of land is almost two-thirds of the country’s total area and it is situated to the west of the Nile River and Egypt’s Libyan border.
This area is home to various species of flora and fauna, including jackals, red and fennec foxes, Barbary sheep, Rhim gazelle, Ruppell’s gazelle, and the sand cat. It is also the refuge for many endangered species, including zebras and the dromedary camel.
A visit to the Western Desert is a truly unique experience, especially when you climb to the top of the English Mountain or admire the incredible wind-carved rock formations in the White Desert National Park.
The Western Desert was once an enormous inland sea, which is evidenced by fossils found throughout the region.
This region remains the home of numerous oases and a fascinating array of wildlife.
Those who visit Egypt will undoubtedly be drawn to its famous sites, such as the Great Pyramids, but there are plenty of other fascinating places to see in and around Cairo. Despite this, many tourists are unaware of some of the city’s lesser-known attractions.
One such place is Mokkatom Mountain, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest places of worship in the Middle East. Located in southeastern Cairo, this is a unique religious site that has been carved into the side of a mountain.
While there, you can also go hiking, zip lining, and rock climbing. It is also home to a high ropes adventure center where you can try your hand at skydiving.
As well as being a popular spot for tourists, Mokkatom Mountain is a natural geological heritage site. It has five types of geological heritage, including geomorphology and paleo-geographical and structural heritage.
It is prone to anthropogenic pressure linked to urbanization and is therefore important for conservation.
The Mountain Mokattam is a unique destination that should not be overlooked. It’s a beautiful place that is hidden amidst the hustle and bustle of modern Cairo.
You can explore this unique location on half day tour of Cairo’s ancient Egyptian heritage and multicultural religious history. You should also visit Old Cairo’s Babylon Fortress, Hanging Church, Ben Ezra Synagogue, and Church of St George.
A Japanese Garden day trip in Cairo is an unforgettable experience. It is an ideal way to explore the city and its culture. The Japanese Garden in Cairo is a serene, tranquil place, full of lush foliage and exotic plants.
Visitors can take a stroll among the winding paths, and admire the beauty of the garden. The garden is also home to a variety of animals, such as birds, squirrels, lizards, and even tortoises.
The Japanese Garden is a perfect place to relax and unwind. Visitors can spend time in the garden and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
The garden is also the ideal spot to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. While in the Japanese Garden, visitors can take a picnic and enjoy the beauty of the gardens.
Visitors can also take part in activities such as tai chi, yoga, or meditation. The Japanese Garden also offers classes on different topics, such as Japanese cooking, literature, and even calligraphy. There are also guided tours of the Japanese Garden and its history.
Visitors can also take part in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies. These ceremonies are a great way to learn about the culture and history of Japan. The tea ceremonies are a great way to connect with human culture and history.
A Japanese Garden day trip in Cairo is a great way to experience the city and its culture. Visitors can explore the gardens and admire their beauty, take part in activities, and learn about the culture and history of Japan. It is an unforgettable experience that will stay with visitors for a lifetime.
Sayyed Zeinab Cultural Park is a community-owned public space in Cairo, Egypt. It promotes cultural awareness, drug-free education, and technology-based learning. Its design also incorporates the social ramifications of urban issues, and it reclaims public space.
It has a variety of activities for both adults and children. Visitors can relax in the shade of trees, ride a bike, or admire exotic marine creatures at the aquarium.
Moreover, tourists can enjoy excursions to Zamalek Island, which is a pristine area of wilderness. Besides, fans of ecotourism can go on a hot-air balloon ride or try safari.
Tourists can also visit Verticality Zorbing Park and try bubble football. These are exciting and fun activities that will raise everyone's mood.
To unwind after a day of sightseeing, you can visit one of the many spa salons in Cairo. Some hotels also offer their guests massages.
The park is also a great place to take a stroll during the day and enjoy the beautiful scenery. If you’re a fan of eco-tourism, you can also visit the nearby Wadi Degla Nature Reserve, which offers excellent excursions to some of the most beautiful natural sites in Egypt.
As a result, the Sayyed Zeinab Cultural Park is a popular spot for tourists of all ages to visit during their stay in Cairo.
For example, tourists who are looking for a fun activity to try together with their family can go to Adrenalin Paintball Center, where they can take part in thrilling adventures that will surely raise everyone’s mood.
Besides, tourists can enjoy some fun activities and entertainment in the city’s nightclubs. Jazz Bar, 1897 Bar, and Pour Vous Roof Top Bar are just a few of the many excellent destinations that await vacationers after their various activities and excursions.
Gabalaya Park and Aquarium in Cairo is the perfect spot for a family day out! With its stunning views and beautiful gardens, it's the perfect place to spend the day.
There's something for everyone here, with a range of activities including camel rides, a petting zoo, and a wide selection of restaurants and cafes.
Gabalaya Park and Aquarium is a famous garden on El Zamalek Island, one of the greenest areas in Cairo. It was founded in the mid-19th century by Khedive Ismail and is now open to the public under the supervision of the central zoos administration.
It includes underground grottoes, a kids’ playground & a pond in a quiet park on an island in the Nile River. It’s a popular spot for shooting love scenes in old Egyptian movies.
The caves and passageways are carved out of a mix of Aswan mud and bricks, which give them a distinctive architectural look.
The aquarium grottoes aren’t just for children though, as it is a romantic place to visit as well. It also has a lot of caves that are beautifully carved out of mud and rocks, which are an excellent way to spend some time away from the city.
The Aquarium is an absolute must-see, with its incredible selection of fish and sea creatures. You'll be able to get up close and personal with some of the most impressive creatures of the deep, and learn about their habitat and behavior.
And of course, no trip to Gabalaya Park and Aquarium would be complete without a visit to the Gift Shop, where you can purchase unique souvenirs and memorabilia to take home with you.
About 12 miles (20 km) southwest of Sharm el Sheikh, Ras Mohammed National Park is a protected area spanning 480 square kilometers. It was set up as a marine reserve in 1983 to protect coral reefs and other marine life.
With miles of tropical reefs and crystal clear water, it’s no wonder this park is a popular destination for divers. Moreover, it’s a prime spot for bird-watching.
While there are plenty of activities to enjoy here, the most popular ones include snorkeling, hiking, and exploring ancient ruins. The best time to visit the park is springtime.
This is because it’s when the area’s most colorful reefs are at their brightest. Additionally, it’s when you’re most likely to see hammerhead sharks and other exotic species.
There’s also the opportunity to take part in bird-watching tours. During this time, you’ll be able to observe migrating storks in flocks that number as high as 10,000.
In addition, this national park is home to a unique lake. You can explore the lake by boat or by 4WD land tour.
This stunning natural park is located on the Sinai Peninsula at the tip of the Gulf of Aqaba and is considered to be one of the most beautiful and unspoiled natural sites in Egypt.
On a day trip here, visitors can explore the park's pristine coral reefs, crystal-clear water, and vibrant marine life. The park is also home to over 200 species of birds, making it a must-see for bird watchers.
The stunning landscape of Ras Mohammed National Park is a feast for the eyes. With its white-sand beaches and stunning crystal-clear waters, it's the perfect place for a day trip from Cairo.
Visitors can take a guided tour to explore the park's unique coral reefs, sea turtles, and other marine life, or simply relax on the beach and enjoy some time in the sun.
Located near Sharm El Sheikh on the Red Sea in Egypt, Tiran Island is a stunningly beautiful location. It features exotic flora and wildlife, beautiful views of turquoise-blue sea water, and beach walks. Scuba diving and snorkeling are also popular activities at Tiran Island.
A trip to Tiran Island is a must-do for anyone who wants to see the best of the Red Sea. The island is home to four stunning coral reefs – Gordon, Thomas, Woodhouse, and Jackson – and attracts thousands of marine species.
The island is also the only place in the world where a virtual coral reef is hidden on the seabed, making it an attractive destination for divers. However, independent dives are not recommended due to strong currents and dangerous underwater conditions.
Located in the Gulf of Aqaba, this island is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs.
From Cairo, you can take a boat ride to the stunning island of Tiran and spend the day snorkeling, sunbathing, and exploring the beautiful beaches. The unique colors of the coral reefs and the abundance of marine life make this a great spot for a day trip.
With the help of a local tour guide, you can explore the islands, visit the old fort, and even experience a bit of the local culture. From swimming with turtles to relaxing on the beach, a Tiran Island day trip in Cairo is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
The Orange Islands offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day of sunbathing or a thrilling excursion filled with snorkeling and sightseeing, there’s something to make your day trip from Cairo to the Orange Islands a memorable one.
Make sure to visit the secluded beaches of nearby Tiran Island, or take a boat out to the nearby coral reefs and explore one of the world’s most vibrant underwater ecosystems.
No matter what activities you choose to do, you’re sure to be amazed by the beauty of the Orange Islands and the surrounding area. Don’t forget to grab some souvenirs for friends and family back home, too! An Orange Islands day trip from Cairo is an experience you won’t soon forget.
A tropical island escape with powder-white sand and a dazzling turquoise sea, Mahmya is an eco-tourism haven that will give you memories for life. It's an exotic escape for sunbathers who want to relax on the beach, and snorkelers will enjoy sneaking between the rainbow coral reefs scattered in the clear lagoon.
Upon arrival, you can get snorkeling gear and a guide. Tours also include hotel transfers and round-trip sailing on the scenic Red Sea, where you'll see palm-thatched beach huts and playful dolphins.
After snorkeling, you can take a walk along the sandy beach, play beach volleyball, or simply relax on the white sand and let the water lap against your feet. Free Wi-Fi is available in the lounge area on Mahmya with Aqua Trampoline for Kids, and fresh food is served at a buffet restaurant.
The best time to go is in the fall when the seas are warm and the weather is sunny but not too hot. You can also enjoy the island in spring and summer, but the water is colder.
Giftun is a tropical island with white sands and reefs, one of the coastal islands along the western coast of Egypt. Its beaches are characterized by soft sand and the water is clear, warm, and turquoise.
This is a popular destination for tourists to enjoy the sun, sand, and world-class snorkeling. You can see dolphins playing in the ocean during your 45-minute boat ride, then slip into the water to explore a thriving reef system.
The pristine coral reefs here are home to a variety of colorful fish and sea creatures. There are over 794 species of marine fish in these waters, which are one of the richest coral reefs in the Red Sea.
During the height of the tourism season, you can find dozens of boats descending on the islands daily. This can be daunting if you’re new to the area, but it can also offer an excellent introduction to the beauty of the Red Sea. If you’re looking to stay on the islands, there are several hotels and resorts nearby.
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