Things to do with kids in Cairo

Attracting droves of travellers interested in Ancient Egypt and archaeological treasures, Cairo, at first glance, may not seem like the best place to travel with children. After all, it's hot, dry, crowded and full of ancient temples and structures that children may find hard to relate to. However, Cairo does have a little something to offer its younger visitors.

Obvious attractions such as the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx will amaze visitors of all ages. Riding a camel or Arabian horse round these spectacular attractions is a fantastic activity for the whole family and a good way to keep the kids interested. Older children might enjoy the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, but a great way to teach the younger ones about Ancient Egypt is to take a barge ride through The Pharaonic Village where they can enjoy history being acted out. There are plenty of amusement parks in Egypt to enjoy too, such as Dream Park or Sindbad where children can enjoy plenty of rides and activities.

For days when the heat is scorching and going outdoors with the children is not an option, take the kids to an indoor playground or amusement park, such as Magic Galaxy, which offers something for children of all ages and even a baby zone for the youngest visitors.

The Pharaonic Village photo

The Pharaonic Village

This living museum is a fabulous attraction for the whole family to enjoy. Visitors sail down a network of canals in motorized barges where a cast of actors and actresses work to r…

The Pharaonic Village

This living museum is a fabulous attraction for the whole family to enjoy. Visitors sail down a network of canals in motorized barges where a cast of actors and actresses work to recreate ancient Egypt. All the characters from pharaohs and fishermen to slaves and potters are represented and even moments in history are recreated. Apart from the faithful reproductions of ancient Egyptian buildings, clothing and lifestyles, there is a complete replica of the tomb of Tutankhamen and a number of museums and interactive exhibits covering different periods of Egypt's history.

Exhibits and activities change regularly making it a different experience every time you visit, but favourites include the mummification exhibit and the Cleopatra exhibit. There is a small amusement park, a restaurant, shops and an art centre, as well as boat hiring facilities. The experience is fun and educational and will take a family at least a few hours to fully appreciate so be sure to allow sufficient time.

Address 3 El Bahr El Aazam St, Cairo.

Website www.pharaonicvillage.com

Opens 9am to 5pm daily. Open until 7pm in the peak summer months.

Admission

Fees vary on itinerary selected.

Magic Galaxy photo

Magic Galaxy

This indoor amusement park spans two floors and features a handful of big rides, more than 100 games, and even a Baby Zone section for very young visitors. Kids can enjoy rides suc…

Magic Galaxy

This indoor amusement park spans two floors and features a handful of big rides, more than 100 games, and even a Baby Zone section for very young visitors. Kids can enjoy rides such as the Moon Buggy or Falling Star, and family rides like the Comet Coaster and Demolition Derby. They can spend hours ensconced in games and fun activities, or even let off some steam in the Soft Play Room. This is a fantastic attraction for the whole family, and a great way to beat the Egyptian heat for a while, or take a break from historical sightseeing. The focus of the amusement park is on children aged between two and 12 but there is fun to be had for all age groups.

Upon entry you will get a Magic Galaxy Card which is prepaid for use of games and rides and can be recharged with fresh funds whenever needed. The cards also accumulate points from certain games and you can pick prizes according to how well you have done. If you happen to go on your birthday you'll get a whole bunch of nifty discounts.

Address 4th & 5th floor Helioplis City Stars Centre, Omar abn El khatab Street

Website www.magicgalaxy.net

Dream Park photo

Dream Park

A trip to Dream Park is a must for children of all ages and makes a great day out for the whole family. Featuring rides, shops, fun activities and simulators, the 160-acre Dream Pa…

Dream Park

A trip to Dream Park is a must for children of all ages and makes a great day out for the whole family. Featuring rides, shops, fun activities and simulators, the 160-acre Dream Park is also encircled by a train, making access easy. Visitors can enjoy a number of stomach-turning adventure rides, or a selection of mellow family rides, as well as two theatres and one of the largest concert areas in Cairo. Numerous restaurants provide refuelling stops, and there is a selection of gift shops for souvenirs. The Dream Park claims to be the largest and most unique amusement park in the Middle East and can host up to 30,000 visitors. It was designed by the same people who designed Universal Studios.

Address Oasis Road, Cairo.

Website www.dreamparkegypt.com

Opens 10am until at least 7pm.

Admission

Fees vary depending on ticket type.