Mark Wiens in Giza and Cairo: 4 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Giza

Must-try foods in Giza

• Koshary
  KosharyWidely regarded as Egypt's national dish, this high-carb soul food is a comforting medley of rice, macaroni, lentils, and chickpeas, topped with a zesty spiced tomato sauce, garlic vinegar, and a generous pile of crispy fried onions. In 2026, it remains a trending staple ranging from street carts to the 'Koshari Salad' at the award-winning Khufu's.
• Pharaonic Duck with Dukkah
  Pharaonic Duck with DukkahA 2026 standout at Giza's top-rated restaurants, this dish elevates traditional poultry with a crust of 'dukkah'—a toasted nut and spice blend of cumin, coriander, and sesame. Often served with freekeh (smoked green wheat) and apricot purée, it represents the 'New Egyptian Cuisine' trend currently dominating the Giza Plateau.
• Ful Medames
  Ful MedamesThe quintessential Egyptian breakfast, consisting of slow-cooked fava beans seasoned with olive oil, cumin, garlic, and lemon. While traditionally found at street carts, the current trend in Giza is 'High-End Ful' served in boutique hotel settings or specialized brunch spots overlooking the Great Sphinx.
• Ta'ameya (Egyptian Falafel)
  Ta'ameya (Egyptian Falafel)Unlike the chickpea-based Levantine versions, Giza's ta'ameya is made from crushed fava beans and a heavy hand of fresh herbs like leek and coriander, giving it a vibrant green interior. Locals seek out 'stuffed' ta'ameya, which are filled with a spicy onion and tomato mixture for an extra kick.
• Hawawshi
  HawawshiA savory, spiced minced meat sandwich—often referred to as an Egyptian meat pie. The meat is seasoned with onions, peppers, and parsley, stuffed into a whole loaf of baladi bread, and then baked until the bread is perfectly crispy and the juices have soaked through the dough.
• Molokhia
  MolokhiaA signature green soup made from the leaves of the jute mallow plant, cooked with a 'tasha' (a sizzling aromatic of garlic and coriander). It has a unique, viscous texture and is traditionally served with white rice and roasted chicken or rabbit.

Trip guide

• About Giza
  About GizaGiza is an archaeological site situated on a rocky plateau on the west bank of the Nile River, approximately 20 kilometers southwest of Cairo. The location contains three primary pyramids constructed during Egypt's Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom (c. 2575–2465 BCE). These structures were built as royal tombs for the pharaohs Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Giza is from October to April when daytime temperatures are mild and pleasant for exploring the desert plateau. Avoid the scorching summer months of June through August, as temperatures frequently exceed 100°F (38°C) with very little shade. While winter is the peak tourist season with larger crowds and higher prices, visiting during the shoulder months of October or April offers a practical balance of manageable weather and fewer visitors.
• Getting around
  Getting around Giza

  • Rideshare Apps (Uber & Careem) The most efficient way to reach Giza from Cairo or the airport is via Uber or Careem, which provide fixed-price rides (approx. 150-300 EGP) and avoid the need for price haggling with traditional taxi drivers.
  • Cairo Metro (Line 2) For a budget-friendly option, take Line 2 (Yellow) to Giza Station. From there, you must take a short 15-minute taxi or micro-bus ride (approx. 30-50 EGP) to reach the actual Pyramids plateau entrance.
  • Giza Plateau Shuttle Bus Once inside the Giza Pyramids complex, use the dedicated electric shuttle bus system introduced in 2025. This service follows a set route between the visitor center, Panorama Point.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem for transport to avoid price negotiations and ensure a fixed fare.
  • Dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees to show respect for local cultural norms and avoid unwanted attention.
  • Always agree on a total price before starting any camel or horse ride and pay only after the service is complete.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Giza

  • Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) Full Operations: Entering its first full year as a complete cultural hub following the November 2025 inauguration, showcasing all 5.
  • The Great Pyramid 'Historical Surprise': The anticipated 2026 announcement and unveiling of discoveries behind a mysterious 30-meter-long corridor detected via robotic exploration.
• Experience Egypt↗
  Experience EgyptThe official promotional website of the Egyptian Tourism Authority, providing travel information and guides for destinations across Egypt, including Cairo.