Memphis Tours

Memphis Tours is one of the longest-established tour companies in Egypt. It was founded in 1955 and has more than six decades of experience organising travel in the country, and it has grown into a large operator with an international customer base. It works with licensed local guides and holds ISO certification for its services, which gives some reassurance in a crowded market of small agencies.

In Cairo, the company's tours typically cover the major sights that most visitors want to see: the pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, the Grand Egyptian Museum, the Egyptian Museum on Tahrir Square, the Citadel, Coptic Cairo and Khan el-Khalili, with day trips to Saqqara and Memphis, the ancient capital from which the company takes its name. These can be booked as private tours with a guide and driver or as part of a longer itinerary. Multi-day packages combine Cairo with Nile cruises between Luxor and Aswan and with other destinations in Egypt and the region.

The company suits travellers who want everything arranged, including airport transfers, hotels, guides and internal travel, and those visiting Egypt for the first time who prefer not to negotiate taxis and tickets themselves. Families and older travellers often appreciate the private tour format, which allows a slower pace and flexible timings. Independent travellers on a budget may find it more economical to book individual day tours rather than full packages.

Enquiries can be made through the company's website, by phone, email, WhatsApp or live chat, and the team builds tailor-made itineraries on request. Check carefully what each price includes, such as entry tickets, lunch and tips, as this varies between tours. Booking well ahead is advisable for the cooler months from October to April and for holiday periods, when guides and cruise cabins fill quickly.

Most Cairo tours include hotel pick-up, so there is no fixed meeting point. Starting early is the best way to beat the heat and the crowds at the pyramids. A good plan for a first visit is a guided day covering Giza and the Grand Egyptian Museum, followed by a second guided day in Islamic and Coptic Cairo, leaving time for independent exploring.