On Sept. 22, towns all across the world invite drivers to give up their cars for the day in observance of World Car-Free Day. The goal of such a day is to raise awareness among people all around the world of the many advantages of living car-free. Reduced air pollution and the encouragement of cycling and walking in a safer environment are two main advantages. We will be providing you with a walking guide within the hustle and bustle of Cairo.
Wadi Degla trail run
20 kilometers southeast of Cairo is Wadi Degla, a beautiful canyon that’s great for trail running, a walk, easy hikes and great scenery. Many people refer to this Natural Protectorate as the “Grand Canyon of Egypt.” The actual trail runs down the canyon floor of the valley on sometimes rocky terrain. There are beautiful views of the canyon rocks, two dams, and desert plants & wildlife. It’s a modest incline as you run into the canyon, climbing 140m over 11.6 km. The path is easy to follow as you go as far as you like until you reach the end of the canyon. You can make a day out of it and bring food and some shade, but make sure to be there early as the park closes around sunset.
Maadi
Maadi is a green suburban neighborhood 12 kilometers south of the city center. It is one of Cairo’s greener running areas. Here are some tips for running in the neighborhood rather than a suggested route: streets near Degla Square, Victoria Square, and the Cairo American College (CAC). Running a 5-mile out-and-back route, you can head east from Cairo American College through Street 213 to Msaken Nerko, through Zatoun Park, and then Zahraa al Maadi for 2.5 miles.
Dokki Area
The Dokki neighborhood in Giza city is situated on the western side of the Nile, across from Cairo’s central business district. You can start your run there at the Shooting Club and then around some of the surrounding roads, including Mohi Al Din Abou Al Ezz Street, Michal Bakhoum Street, and Mossadak Street. You can reach the Orman Botanical Garden and some of the nice paths encircling Cairo University’s campus by running a little bit further south.
Heliopolis
From Maryland and Beirut Street to Thawra and Hejaz streets, Heliopolis is one of the historic neighborhoods in Cairo. While you plan your run there, you will be amazed by the historic facilities such as the Baron Palace and El Korba district. You can also run around The Military Academy, located in El-Orouba
Running at the Pyramids
The Pyramids of Giza, one of the seven wonders of the world, are a spectacular location for running or taking a walk because they are surrounded by magnificent sand dunes and historical sites. Many people enquire as to whether they “can run at the Pyramids.” Without a doubt, the answer is a yes! Therefore, you may put together a few kilometers of running or hiking along the surrounding roads, walkways, and up a few dunes, with the benefit of some fantastic views of the Pyramids.
So while you’re at it…leave your car behind and enjoy the day with a run, walk or even horse ride across Cairo’s magnificent neighborhoods.