Due to safety risks in parts of this area, travelers should review the latest guidance and information from government agencies.

Cave Church (St. Simon the Tanner Monastery) Tours and Tickets

Q: How much does it cost to visit the Cave Church in 2024?

Admission to the Cave Church is free, but you will need to factor in the cost to get there. Joining a tour is a great, hassle-free option, and tours typically include round-trip transportation from Cairo and Giza hotels. Half-day tours usually start around EGP 1,974 per person.

Q: Is visiting the Cave Church worth it?

Yes, visiting the Cave Church is worth it for its beauty and interesting backstory. Garbage collectors from Cairo’s Coptic Christian community dug it out from the mountain in the 1970s. Tours also give you the chance to see the “Garbage City,” where waste items are sorted for recycling and disposal.

Q: Is the Cave Church accessible for people with disabilities?

No, the Cave Church is not accessible for people with disabilities. It’s not wheelchair friendly, and visitors need to go up and down steps and spend time on their feet. Many tours to the church will require a bit of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.

Q: How do I get to the Cave Church?

The Cave Church is located at Mokattam Mountain on the outskirts of Cairo, roughly 6 miles (10 kilometers) from Tahrir Square. Though you can get there by taxi, joining a tour that includes round-trip transportation may be a better option, as you won’t have to figure out your return trip.

Q: What is the best time of day to visit the Cave Church?

There’s no best time of day to visit the Cave Church. However, to avoid crowds, do not visit on a Friday or Sunday (when it’s busiest with worshipers) or during the Christmas and Orthodox Easter holidays.

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Coptic Cairo Tour: Cave Church of Saint Simon and Old Cairo churches

4 hoursFree Cancellation

4.6

(196)

from USD 15

Price varies by group size

Cave Church of Saint Simon and Hidden Churches of Old Cairo

Visit El Mokattam Mountain Cave Church, or the Monastery of St Simon, on a private tour that also explores the magnificent churches of Coptic Cairo. You’ll see some of Cairo’s most important Christian sites, including the Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church, the Church of Saint Barbara, and the Hanging Church, while going beyond sightseeing for a glimpse of ‘garbage city,’ a fascinating Cairo neighborhood that most visitors overlook entirely.Private tour ensures personalized service Included lunch and entrance fees mean no extra tour costs Enjoy the comfort and security of traveling by private vehicle Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off in Cairo

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Cave Church of Saint Simon and Hidden Churches of Old Cairo

4 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(10)

from USD 35

Price varies by group size

Cave Church in Garbage City and Coptic Quarter of Old Cairo.

Spend two days seeing some of Cairo’s most interesting churches on this tour, which does not include accommodation. Get off the beaten path with a visit to the so-called "Garbage City," Zabbaleen, which gets its name because of the community of garbage collectors who live there. Here you'll visit the Monastery of Saint Simon, inside a cave. On your second day, visit Coptic Cairo highlights such as the Hanging Church.

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Cave Church in Garbage City and Coptic Quarter of Old Cairo.

4 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(20)

from USD 74

Price varies by group size

Private Tour to The Hanging Church and St Simon Monastery

Experience the spiritual and architectural marvels of Egypt with a visit to the Hanging Church and St. Simon Monastery. The Hanging Church, perched atop ancient Babylon Fortress, offers a glimpse into Coptic Christian history with its exquisite frescoes and rich heritage. Journey to St. Simon Monastery, carved into the cliffs of Mokattam Mountain, where breathtaking views and serene surroundings provide a tranquil escape. These sacred sites are not only a testament to faith but also a window into Egypt's profound religious and cultural tapestry. Join us for a remarkable journey through time and spirituality.

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Private Tour to The Hanging Church and St Simon Monastery

4 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(1)

from USD 50

Price varies by group size

Half Day Tour To Cave Church of Saint Simon

Cairo is full of beautiful old churches, but knowing which ones to visit and understanding their significance can be a challenge without a guide. This themed tour demystifies the history of these sacred sites and includes transportation and the services of a private guide on this unique themed tour. You’ll visit the Church of Abu-Sergah, Church of St. Barbara, the Cave Church at the Monastery of Saint Simon, and more.

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Half Day Tour To Cave Church of Saint Simon

4 hoursFree Cancellation

4.2

(6)

from USD 40

Price varies by group size

private sacred tour to Cave Church of Saint Simon in Coptic Cairo

5 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.0

(1)

from USD 72

Price varies by group size

Coptic Cairo Hanging Church, Saint Simon and Khan El Khalili

Explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Cairo on this immersive guided experience through Old Cairo and Islamic Cairo. Visit the historic Coptic Area, home to some of the oldest churches in Egypt, including the Hanging Church and Abu Serga Church, and learn about the journey of the Holy Family in Egypt. Continue to the famous Khan El Khalili Bazaar, one of the oldest markets in the Middle East, where you can wander through lively alleys filled with traditional handicrafts, spices, jewelry, and souvenirs. Enjoy free time to shop, take photos, and experience the authentic atmosphere of Cairo’s historic heart. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a deeper cultural experience, combining history, spirituality, and local life with the guidance of a knowledgeable local guide.

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Coptic Cairo Hanging Church, Saint Simon and Khan El Khalili

6 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(1)

from USD 30

Private Half-Day Tour to Old Cairo Churches & St. Simon Monastery

Step back in time and explore the spiritual heart of Cairo on this unforgettable Half-Day Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery. Travel with your expert guide through Coptic Cairo, home to some of the oldest Christian churches in Egypt. Visit the iconic Hanging Church, suspended above a Roman fortress gate, and the sacred Abu Serga Church, believed to have sheltered the Holy Family. Admire the rich history and stunning architecture of the Ben Ezra Synagogue, a treasure of Jewish heritage. Then, venture to Mokattam Mountain to discover the extraordinary St. Simon the Tanner Monastery, carved into the rock with breathtaking biblical carvings and home to one of Cairo’s largest churches. Along the way, immerse yourself in fascinating stories, cultural insights, and hidden gems that most tourists never see. This is more than sightseeing—it’s a journey through faith, history, and local life that you’ll never forget.

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Private Half-Day Tour to Old Cairo Churches & St. Simon Monastery

4 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(15)

from USD 110

Price varies by group size

Coptic Cairo and Cave Church Half Day Tour

4 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

from USD 86

Price varies by group size

Cairo Half Day Trip to El Mokattam Mountain Cave Church

Formally known as St. Simon the Tanner Monastery, the Cave Church is one of Cairo’s most fascinating attractions, but it’s not easy to reach on public transit and it helps to have a private guide to tell the fascinating story. This private half-day tour includes everything you need to make the most of the church and Mokkatom Mountain: a guide, lunch, bottled water, and door-to-door private transfers.

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Cairo Half Day Trip to El Mokattam Mountain Cave Church

4 hoursFree Cancellation

4.4

(5)

from USD 60

Price varies by group size

Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church

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.

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Private Tour Pyramids of Giza, Garbage City and St Simon Church

7 hours 8 minutesFree Cancellation

5.0

(8)

from USD 50

Price varies by group size

Coptic Cairo: Cave Church of Saint Simon and Old Cairo churches

Visit the El Mokattam Mountain Cave Church, also known as the Monastery of St. Simon, on a private tour that also explores the magnificent churches of Coptic Cairo. Discover some of Cairo’s most significant Christian sites, including the Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church, the Church of Saint Barbara, and the Hanging Church. This tour goes beyond traditional sightseeing, offering a glimpse into 'Garbage City,' a fascinating Cairo neighborhood that most visitors overlook. Your knowledgeable guide will provide rich historical context and cultural insights, ensuring a comprehensive and enlightening experience. Enjoy the convenience of private transportation, making your journey through Cairo's spiritual and less-traveled paths seamless and memorable.

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Coptic Cairo: Cave Church of Saint Simon and Old Cairo churches

5 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from USD 100

Price varies by group size

Full Day Coptic cairo and Saint Simon Church

Our Private Guide will pick up you from your hotel with our private air-condition Van to start your private Day tour with our Team who will make your tour Unforgettable , during the Tour you will have your local Lunch and also we will offer you mineral Water, also we offer free Wifi, by the End we will drop you back to your hotel YOU will visit the oldest hanging church dates back to 5 century ad and the holly family church where the holy family live under the church for 4 months and also you will visit the synagogue of ben Ezra

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Full Day Coptic cairo and Saint Simon Church

2 to 7 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(1)

from USD 35

Price varies by group size

Cairo Day Tour St.Simon monastery and Pharaonic Village

St. Simon Monastery in Cairo, Egypt, attracts visitors for its religious significance,immersive cultural experiences, insider knowledge, and memorable encounters with local traditions.being dedicated to Saint Simon the Tanner, who performed a miracle in Coptic tradition. The monastery's unique cave architecture, and stunning views of Cairo The monastery is carved into the caves of Mokattam, making it a unique architectural marvel. The history of the community and their strong ties to the monastery add a deep cultural. The Pharaonic Village in Egypt provides a captivating journey into ancient Egyptian civilization. Located on an island in the Nile near Cairo, it features realistic reenactments of daily life, with actors in traditional costumes performing scenes . Visitors can explore life-size replicas of iconic monuments, including the temples of Abu Simbel and Karnak, as well as Tutankhamun’s tomb. offer an educational experience for tourists , adventurous and families alike.

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Cairo Day Tour St.Simon monastery and Pharaonic Village

4 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(3)

from USD 40

Private guided tour to Cave church and old Coptic churchs in the old Cairo

It is a unique day tour to lean about Cairo’s rich religious history and heritage. Discover the Cave church known as the Saint Simon Church, Cairo’s UNESCO-listed treasures, located at the garbage city, East of old Cairo. And Explore old Cairo with it's famous old churches; Visit the Hanging Church, visit the Cavern Church, known as the Church of Saint Sergius, and learn more with our expert tour guide.

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Private guided tour to Cave church and old Coptic churchs in the old Cairo

4 to 5 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(5)

from USD 111

Price varies by group size

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Cave Church of Saint Simon

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

from USD 414

Price varies by group size

Cairo Grand Egyptian Museum and Biblical History with Lunch

Walk where faith still feels alive, and let one day in Cairo move both heart and mind. This experience goes beyond sightseeing into some of Egypt’s most sacred spiritual landmarks, where the story of the Holy Family’s time in Egypt feels close enough to touch. Visit Old Cairo’s revered churches, stand in quiet reverence at the Hanging Church, and take in the Cave Church rising from Mokattam Mountain as a remarkable expression of devotion. With your expert guide, each stop reveals layers of prayer, endurance, and sacred history. The day ends at the Grand Egyptian Museum, where the splendor of ancient Egypt adds another sense of awe. Visit four iconic religious sites, including the Hanging Church and Cave Church Trace the Holy Family’s path through Old Cairo with an expert guide Stand inside vast sanctuaries tied to deep Christian tradition Explore the Grand Egyptian Museum and King Tut’s treasures

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Cairo Grand Egyptian Museum and Biblical History with Lunch

11 hoursFree Cancellation

from USD 140

Price varies by group size

You will be picked up from the hotel to visit the Coptic Cairo where you can see some churches like the hanging church which dates back to the 7 century built on the top of one of the towers of the Roman fortress. Then you continue to see St George church also built on a tower of the same fortress and has a circular shape. You will explore the Crept Church or St Sergios church which has the cave where the holy family had as a shelter or a hidden place from the Romans at that time. You will visit St Barbara church which was built in the 5th or the 6th century. You will see the unique synagogue in the place of Ben Ezra. According to local folklore, it is located on the site where baby Moses was found. Then you will be driven to see the Monastery of St Simon which has 7 churches the most important are the summer and the winter churches, both were dug in the mountain having the shape of caves.

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Half Day Tour to the Churches of Cairo

5 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(15)

from USD 60

Price varies by group size

Private Day Tour to Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, Coptic Cairo and Saint Simon Church in Cairo

Visit three pyramids and ancient Egyptian churches on this private, full-day adventure in Cairo. See the Great Pyramid of Giza, the oldest and largest of the three pyramids in the Giza pyramid complex; the Great Sphinx of Giza on the west bank of the Nile; the Coptic Cairo museum, featuring a collection of ancient Egyptian Christian artwork, objects and manuscripts; and the Monastery of Saint Simon, or the Cave Church, located in the Mokattam mountain. All necessary entrance fees, plus a Cairo hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

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Private Day Tour to Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, Coptic Cairo and Saint Simon Church in Cairo

8 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

4.5

(22)

from USD 71

Holy Day Tour: Coptic Cairo and Saint Simon Church

Soak up the unique spiritual atmosphere of Egypt during this private 5-hour exploration of Cairo’s historic churches and synagogues. Wander the atmospheric streets of Cairo’s Coptic District, discovering the country’s Christian history through your stops at historic churches like Abu-Sergah, St. Barbara and the Hanging Church. You’ll also explore Egypt’s Jewish history at the Ben Ezra Synagogue and learn the story of Saint Simon the Tanner, a 10th-century Coptic Orthodox religious figure. Your trip also includes a private Egyptologist guide, entrance fees, bottled water and round-trip hotel transport.

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Holy Day Tour: Coptic Cairo and Saint Simon Church

6 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

4.5

(6)

from USD 57

Travelers can visit the beautiful Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan that is one of the largest mosques in the world ,I t was the first building to combine a madrasa and congregational mosque together in the Islamic world, Onother amazing places to visit are the Khanqah of Baybars II , a medieval building located in historic Sharia Gamaliya and the Monastery, a magnificent cave church, or Simon Church, or Samaan el Kharaz monastery in Arabic, in the Mokattam Mountains. A must visit, the Egyptian Museum Is the oldest archaeological museum in the Middle East, houses the largest collection of Pharaonic antiquities in the world. The museum displays an extensive collection spanning from the Predynastic Period to the Greco-Roman Era. The entire excursion is conducted in comfort and safety. Travelers may rely on the skilled and informed driver, who is quite knowledgeable about the places to visit during the tour.

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Private Guide Tour Egypt by Car

3 to 4 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(6)

from USD 25

Price varies by group size

Cairo Your Way, Join Any of 3 Full-Day Tours Packed (Top Sites)

Explore Cairo your way with up to 3 full-day guided tours covering more than 10 of the city’s must-see spots! Choose to join one, two, or all three days—each one offers a unique vibe and unforgettable experience. Day 1 is for ancient wonders—walk (or ride!) around the Great Pyramids and Sphinx, feel the power of history, and enjoy Egypt’s favorite street food. Day 2 brings culture and city views—think royal palaces, historic citadels, stunning skyline panoramas, and the charm of Cairo’s old markets. Day 3 dives into museums and spirituality—exploring treasures of the past and peaceful historic quarters filled with stories. Each day is a complete trip, filled with authentic moments, local flavors, and real Cairo energy. Travel with friendly local guides who make you feel at home every step of the way. Come for a day or stay for it all—this is Cairo like you’ve never seen it before.

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Cairo Your Way, Join Any of 3 Full-Day Tours Packed (Top Sites)

5 hours to 1 dayFree Cancellation

5.0

(1)

from USD 115

A Day in the Coptic Quarter and the churches of Mokattam

6 to 7 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(6)

from USD 88

Price varies by group size

Beyond Expectations: Luxury Egypt Vacation

Immerse yourself in a captivating 3-day private tour of Cairo, where iconic landmarks, rich history, and vibrant culture await your exploration, all with a personalized touch. Engage with the city's allure as you journey through renowned sites accompanied by a private guide. From the awe-inspiring Pyramids to the treasures of the Egyptian Museum, each destination comes alive with tailored insights. Traverse the centuries-old streets of Islamic Cairo, uncovering its tales and architectural wonders. Delve into the spiritual significance of Coptic Cairo, where ancient churches resonate with history. With a customized approach, our tour ensures an intimate understanding of Cairo's essence, from bustling markets to serene oases. Experience the city's heartbeat through personalized attention, leaving you with a profound connection and cherished memories of this extraordinary journey.

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Beyond Expectations: Luxury Egypt Vacation

3 daysFree Cancellation

5.0

from USD 4,400

Price varies by group size

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What are people saying about Cave Church (St. Simon the Tanner Monastery)

Coptic Cairo Tour: Cave Church of Saint Simon and Old Cairo churches

Debbie_H, July 2026

Beautiful experience 🙏

Beautiful churches to be seen here, the craftsmanship in the stone is exceptional, the only fault I had was that my tour guides English was not that great was a little hard to understand her but she was a lovely lady and very comfortable to be with 🙂

Coptic Cairo Tour: Cave Church of Saint Simon and Old Cairo churches

TheresaLynne_A, May 2026

Review

It was wonderful! I enjoyed spending time with my driver and tour guide. I loved that I did a private tour and got to see the top things on my list.

Coptic Cairo Tour: Cave Church of Saint Simon and Old Cairo churches

Tamara_H, Apr 2026

Hisham was an amazing...

Hisham was an amazing driver. He got me to the places, and even though he was driver only, he answered questions. This is okay for a female solo traveler. When you get into the church complex you may find that a guide is helpful so that you don’t miss anything. There are inexpensive guides for hire walking around.

Half Day Tour To Cave Church of Saint Simon

omartin1202, Dec 2025

Great Tour

Our guide was late (10 minutes), I know there is traffic but they should plan accordingly. Once she arrived we saw some local sites from the car, and then headed to the cave church. We had to travel through this area called “garbage town” and then you arrive to this beautiful church carved into a mountain. Just beautiful. It was a great tour. Hearing the history and seeing all the beautiful carvings throughout the church. Lunch is good. I would recommend this tour to my family and friends

Coptic Cairo Tour: Cave Church of Saint Simon and Old Cairo churches

Jessica_K, Jan 2026

Beautiful, unique experience in Cairo, highly recommend!!

This tour was definitely a highlight of our week in Cairo for our family of 6! Our tour guide, Mirna B. was very knowledgeable, and was also kind and helpful with our 4 children, buying them snacks, helping us carry extra jackets, and making sure the children were safe in the crowds the entire time. The story of St. Simon the Tanner is incredible, we learned so much visiting the Cave Church in Garbage City. This is one of the most unique sights in Cairo, definitely a must see!! Getting to visit where Mary, Joseph, and Jesus stayed when they fled to Egypt, and even seeing the well where they got their water from, was truly an experience our family will never forget. After a few days of visiting pyramids and museums, it was beautiful to witness the fervor, enthusiasm, and the devotion of the Christian community in Cairo and to spend some time teaching our children about the ancient roots of their faith here. 100% recommend!

Coptic Cairo Tour: Cave Church of Saint Simon and Old Cairo churches

Maria_K, Jan 2026

Amazing sights, must see

The driver, Abdu fetched me right on time but there was no sign of the guide, Karma.. We had to go pick her up. I did not receive a message either before hand which I found odd.. On the way to the Coptic area we passed by Garbage city which was quite interesting in itself. You could see how local people lived. The sights I saw were more and everything I wanted. Karma was friendly and knowledgeable.. Abdu was a great driver winding through these tight spaces.

Coptic Cairo Tour: Cave Church of Saint Simon and Old Cairo churches

David_S, Nov 2025

Fantastic and affordable tour, 100% recommend

I took the driver-only option. It was great and affordable. The driver was punctual and very flexible with the itinerary. So I had as much time as I needed to explore each site. The drive to the Cave Church through Garbage City is the most unique thing you will see in Egypt! 100% recommend