Private Walking Tour to Khan El-Khalili and Madrassa of Sultan Hassan

Enjoy the captivating history and vibrant culture of Old Cairo on this private walking tour. Explore the iconic Khan el-Khalili bazaar, where you’ll discover a treasure trove of unique souvenirs and traditional wares, before marveling at the magnificent Madrassa of Sultan Hassan – a stunning example of Mamluk architecture. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, uncover the rich heritage of this fascinating city. Get ready to be enchanted by the sights, sounds, and stories that await you on this personalized journey.

Key Points

• A private 2.5-hour walking tour in Old Cairo, featuring the iconic Khan el-Khalili bazaar and the historic Madrassa of Sultan Hassan.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with 1.5 hours spent exploring the vibrant Khan el-Khalili marketplace.
• The Madrassa of Sultan Hassan, a 14th-century architectural marvel, is the final stop, showcasing Mamluk design and Islamic learning.
• The tour is led by a professional guide and limited to a maximum of 10 guests, ensuring a personalized experience.
• The tour emphasizes the historical significance of the Mamluk architectural heritage in Cairo, providing an immersive cultural experience.

Tour Overview

This private walking tour in Old Cairo allows visitors to explore two of the city’s most iconic attractions – the Khan el-Khalili bazaar and the Madrassa of Sultan Hassan.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and lasts 2.5 hours. Guests will enter the Old City through the historic Bab al Futuh gate, then spend 1.5 hours browsing the Khan el-Khalili market for souvenirs, leather goods, and jewelry.

They’ll then visit the 14th-century Madrassa of Sultan Hassan, a significant Mamluk-era mosque and school featuring a large courtyard and ornate brass mausoleum doors.

A professional guide accompanies travelers throughout the experience, which is limited to a maximum of 10 guests per tour.

Exploring Old Cairo

Visitors embark on an immersive journey through the bustling streets of Old Cairo, where the historic Bab al Futuh gate serves as the gateway to a vibrant cultural tapestry.

They’ll explore the famed Khan el-Khalili bazaar, one of the city’s oldest and largest markets, teeming with vendors selling an array of souvenirs, leather goods, and dazzling jewelry.

Next, they’ll visit the Madrassa of Sultan Hassan, a 14th-century mosque and school renowned for its grand courtyard and intricate brass mausoleum doors, offering a glimpse into Cairo’s Mamluk architectural heritage.

This private walking tour provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to soak in the sights, sounds, and flavors of the city’s historic quarter.

Khan El-Khalili Bazaar

The Khan el-Khalili bazaar is one of Cairo’s most iconic and lively marketplaces. Winding alleyways are lined with countless shops selling a dizzying array of souvenirs, handicrafts, spices, and traditional Egyptian wares.

Haggling is a must, as vendors enthusiastically invite passersby to browse their stalls. From intricate brass lanterns to colorful scarves and jewelry, the bazaar offers a treasure trove of unique finds.

Exploring the labyrinth of stalls is an immersive cultural experience, allowing visitors to soak in the sights, sounds, and aromas of this centuries-old trading hub.

Whether seeking the perfect souvenir or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, the Khan el-Khalili is a highlight of any visit to Cairo.

Madrassa of Sultan Hassan

Constructed in the 14th century, the Madrassa of Sultan Hassan stands as a magnificent example of Mamluk architecture in Cairo.

This massive mosque and school complex features an impressive courtyard and striking brass doors adorning the mausoleum. Visitors will marvel at the intricate details and grand scale of the structure, which took over 15 years to complete.

The Madrassa offers a glimpse into Cairo’s rich Mamluk heritage, during which time the city flourished as a center of Islamic learning and culture.

With its ornate design and historical significance, the Madrassa of Sultan Hassan is a must-see highlight of the private walking tour through Old Cairo.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins at 10:00 am with hotel pickup, allowing participants to explore the historic landmarks at a comfortable pace. First, the group will enter the Old City through the Bab al Futuh, a grand gate completed in 1067. Visitors will then spend approximately 1.5 hours at the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, one of Cairo’s oldest and largest markets, known for its diverse offerings of souvenirs, leather goods, and jewelry. The final stop is the Madrassa of Sultan Hassan, where guests will spend an hour admiring the 14th-century mosque and school, its large courtyard, and intricate brass mausoleum doors.

Attraction	Duration	Details
Khan el-Khalili Bazaar	1.5 hours	One of Cairo’s oldest and largest markets
Madrassa of Sultan Hassan	1 hour	14th-century mosque and school, significant to Cairo’s Mamluk era
Bab al Futuh	–	Historic gate completed in 1067, entry point to Old City

Inclusions and Exclusions

Professional guide, all taxes, fees, and handling charges, as well as admission fees for sightseeing are included in the tour price.

However, food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t covered. The tour accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers per group, making it a personalized experience.

Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Guests can cancel their booking free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts, providing flexibility.

This walking tour is likely to sell out, so securing a spot in advance is recommended to avoid disappointment.

Traveler Information

Travelers can expect a maximum group size of 10 participants for this personalized walking tour in Old Cairo.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so guests should be able to comfortably walk for up to 2.5 hours. Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility.

Based on past reviews, the timing of the 10 AM start may impact accessibility to the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, as it can get crowded earlier in the day.

However, the tour is generally well-received for the guide’s knowledge and safe transportation provided to and from the hotel.

Tour Reviews

Based on the available feedback, visitors appear to have had a generally positive experience on this walking tour of Old Cairo’s historic landmarks.

The tour guide’s extensive knowledge and the safe transportation provided were standout highlights noted in the reviews. However, some travelers felt the early morning timing may have limited their ability to fully explore the Khan el-Khalili bazaar.

The tour seems to offer an engaging glimpse into Cairo’s Mamluk past, with the Madrassa of Sultan Hassan and the bustling Khan el-Khalili marketplace providing immersive cultural experiences.

While not wheelchair accessible, the tour caters to small groups, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the COVID-19 Safety Protocols During the Tour?

The tour operator follows strict COVID-19 safety protocols, including mandatory mask-wearing, social distancing, and frequent sanitization of high-touch areas. Hand sanitizer is provided, and guests’ temperatures are checked before the tour begins.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour operator does not allow participants to bring their own food and drinks. All food and beverages must be purchased during the tour, which are not included in the tour price.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour With Just My Group?

Yes, this tour is offered as a private option for just your group. The tour overview specifically states that it’s a "Private walking tour in Old Cairo", so you can enjoy the experience with your own party.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Shopping at the Bazaar?

The tour allocates approximately 1.5 hours for exploring the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, allowing travelers ample time to browse the stalls, negotiate prices, and shop for souvenirs, leather goods, and jewelry at this iconic Cairo marketplace.

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t mention any discounts or promotions. However, it’s worth checking with the tour provider directly, as they may offer periodic deals or package discounts. Securing your spot early is recommended, as the tour is likely to sell out.

Recap

This private walking tour offers a captivating exploration of Old Cairo’s rich heritage. Visitors can enjoy the lively Khan El-Khalili bazaar, known for its unique souvenirs and traditional wares, and marvel at the magnificent Madrassa of Sultan Hassan, a stunning example of Mamluk architecture. With a knowledgeable guide and a small group size, this tour provides a personalized and insightful journey through Cairo’s fascinating cultural landscape.