Mid-year vacation is approaching, so if you haven't planned to take your family to a Red Sea resort city, here are some parks where you can spend a fun-filled day with your children.
Al-Azhar Park:
Al-Azhar Park is on top of a hill that gives you a wonderful view of the Citadel and much of Islamic Cairo. Beautiful fountains dot the large green areas, where there is a plenty of space to play with your children. There are four restaurants and coffee shops serving different kinds of food including oriental, Italian, and international. The park is located on Salah Salem road. Entrance tickets are reasonably priced: LE 5 on weekdays and LE 7 on weekends. Tel.: 202 23625057. Website: www.alazharpark.com
Wadi Degla Park:
Wadi Degla is distinguished from all others parks in Egypt. It is the perfect, if not the only, place in Cairo where you can enjoy hiking, biking and picnicking. The breathtaking view together with the calm atmosphere are capable of relieving any stress you have. It is worth visiting to escape from the pollution and noise of the crowded city. Address: 4th district , Zahraa al-Maadi besides Wadi Degla club and Vodafone building.
Dream Park:
The largest theme park in Egypt and Middle East, this amusement park features a variety of attractions suitable for all ages. It is full of exciting rides from thrilling to slower paced ones. Working hours are from 10AM to 7PM on weekdays and from 10AM to 9PM on Fridays and holidays. For tickets, there are three pricing categories: Total LE 60, VIP LE 80 and Golden (includes a meal) LE 130. If you decide to go for one of the first two ticket options, there are several restaurants and coffee shops in the park. Address: 6th of October city inside Dreamland compound. Tel.: 19355.
Magic Galaxy Park:
Magic Galaxy is an indoor amusement park that features ten rides and more than 100 games for children. Falling star and Moon Buggy are the most popular rides. The park also has a special play area for very young children. Parents can join their children on the Demolition Derby and Comet Coaster rides. Address: 4th & 5th floors in City Stars Mall, Omar Abn al Khatab St, Heliopolis. There are no tickets, instead you buy a prepaid card from the park and recharge it as needed. Tel.:202 24802031. Website: www.magicgalaxy.net
Africa Safari Park:
Experience the "wild life" by taking a car tour through an African jungle while animals are wandering freely around your vehicle. You can take a river tour and visit a cave that contains more than 22 different types of birds and reptiles. Delicious grilled plates are served in Zambezi restaurant while African music creates the jungle atmosphere. There is a motel inside the park where you can jump into the indoor swimming pool and enjoy the view of waterfalls. During your stay, you can participate in activities including fishing, air hockey, billiard, football and ping pong. Entrance fee is LE250 per car. However, if you want to spend the night there, a standard room is LE800, superior room LE1200, suite LE1800. All prices include the safari and river tours, cave entrance and breakfast. The park is 65km along hte Alex-Cairo Desert Road. Tel.: 0101175098/0121170683
