Private Tour: Full-Day Trip to Tal-Basta and San El-Hagar from Cairo

Start your private tour with a hotel pickup in Cairo or Giza, then journey north through the scenic Nile Delta in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan. Learn how the delta once formed part of ancient Lower Egypt, and make your first stop at Tell-Basta, the site of Bubastis, one of Egypt’s most significant ancient cities. Upon arrival, explore the remnants of this once-prosperous city with your Egyptologist guide. Discover how Bubastis thrived from around 1292 BC, when Egypt’s pharaohs relocated their capital to the delta region. Admire the inscribed pillars and fragments, including relics from Bubastis’ temple dedicated to the revered cat goddess, Bastet. Visualize the temple in its prime and hear about Bubastis’ cat cemeteries, where thousands of mummified cats are believed to be buried.

Continue your journey north to San el-Hagar to explore the ruins of Tanis, an ancient Egyptian capital dating back to around 1075 BC. Wander through the crumbling temples of Tanis, and visit the royal tombs that were uncovered in the 20th century. Learn how archaeologists uncovered remarkable pharaonic treasures, such as silver coffins, gold, and jewelry.

Take a break for a delicious Egyptian lunch at a local restaurant. After your visit to Tanis, the tour concludes with a hotel drop-off in Cairo or Giza.

Tanis is an ancient city located in the northeastern Nile Delta of Egypt. Situated along the now-silted Tanitic branch of the Nile, Tanis was once an important city in ancient Egypt. It served as the capital during the 21st and 22nd Dynasties and played a significant role in the country’s history.

Zagazig is a city located in the northeastern part of Egypt, near the ancient site of Tanis.

Tanis, once the capital during the New Kingdom, is known for its historical significance. In addition to its role as a political and cultural center, it is home to the ruins of several important temples, including those dedicated to the gods Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. These ancient structures are a testament to Tanis’ importance during its time as a capital and religious hub.