Birqash Camel Market: head for the village of Birqash just outside of Cairo (35kms) where every Monday and Friday morning, the area is besieged by camel traders and locals looking to buy and sell these culturally integral beasts. Visitors attending the market will be met with a variety of sights, sounds and smells, most of which are created by the camels themselves. Since this is such a popular attraction, a small fee is charged for admission.
Alexandria: some distance away (225kms) but reachable in two hours by train, is the country’s second biggest city and the place to find attractions such as beaches, museums, ancient tombs and historic landmarks. Alexandria is a major tourist city offering modern conveniences as well as traditional Egyptian charm. It also has its own airport so it’s possible to take a flight there from Cairo; a considerably faster alternative to the train.
A number of pyramids are located across the two sights and ongoing archaeological excavations are set to uncover further historical treasures which will undoubtedly increase the appeal of both.
Historic Sightseeing: local tour operators offer half-day trips which take in a variety of interesting historic and traditional Egyptian sights such as the Citadel of Salah El Din, the mosques of Mohamed Ali and Sultan Hassan and the bazaars of Khan El Khalili.
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