Egypt, the land of the pharaohs, pyramids, and eternal enigma, is a spectacular travel destination. With its history, culture, and natural beauty, Egypt provides travelers with a step back in time from the ancient wonders of the Nile Valley to the golden shores of the Red Sea. Whether you love history, sunny beaches, or are in search of adventure, Egypt is guaranteed to offer something unique and unforgettable.
1. Cairo and the Pyramids of Giza
Cairo, the largest city in Egypt, is a continually sprawling metropolitan area that offers a combo of modernity and antiquity. Cairo is mainly a springboard for Giza, and the Giza Plateau is a must-see destination because of the worldwide iconic Pyramids of Giza and Great Sphinx. The mysteries of the Pyramids, built about 4500 years ago, continue to mesmerize visitors with their sheer overwhelming size.
If you find yourself in Cairo, you will want to devote a visit to the Egyptian Museum. The Egyptian Museum hosts one of the largest collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including the recently opened treasures from the tomb of Tutankhamun.
You will also want to visit Khan el-Khalili, one of the oldest bazaars in the Middle East. Khan el-Khalili is a cultural experience just by being there, and you can find spices, textiles, and handmade crafts.
2. Luxor: A Historical Open Air Museum
Known as “the greatest open air museum on the planet,” Luxor is the hub of ancient Egyptian history. Situated on the banks of the Nile River, Luxor was once the original city of Thebes.
You could explore the Karnak Temple Complex, the gigantic Temple of Luxor, or the marvelous Valley of the Kings, where you will find the tombs of a number of pharaohs, including Tutankhamun. The carvings and hieroglyphics on the walls of the tombs are amongst the best preserved in Egypt.
The best part of this entire experience is a hot air balloon ride at sunrise over the Nile River and Theban Necropolis to witness this historic location from a very different view.
3. Aswan: Peace and Culture in the Nile
Next on the journey south is Aswan, a lovely, peaceful place characterized by warm weather and charming views of the Nile. Traveling south from the fast-paced city of Cairo, Aswan is certainly not rushed or hurried.
In Aswan, you can enjoy seeing the Philae Temple, which is dedicated to the goddess Isis, or you could take a boat ride to the Temple of Kom Ombo, which is unique as it is dedicated to two gods, Sobek and Horus.
Aswan is also your next stop if you venture to Abu Simbel, which is one of Egypt’s most exciting archaeological sites. The two huge rock temples built by Ramses II were relocated in the 1960s shelled because of the Aswan High Dam construction. The thought of moving whole temples should be justification enough to visit them.
4. Alexandria: The Pearl of the Mediterranean
Founded by Alexander the Great, Alexandria is Egypt’s second-largest city and a shining jewel on the Mediterranean coast. While some may argue Alexandria has lost much of its ancient brilliance, the character of the city has not been lost through new and remodeled sites like the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, which pays homage to the ancient Library of Alexandria.
As you wander the city’s streets, visit the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, a bizarre collection of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman architectural styles, and the Citadel of Qaitbay – a Montazah surrounded by beaches built on the location of the former Lighthouse of Alexandria (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World).
With charming little seafood restaurants, well-manicured promenades, and a touch of European spirit, Alexandria provides a lush, coastal escape.
5. The Red Sea: Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada
The Red Sea coast of Egypt is a dream come true for anyone wanting the sun or the underwater experience. The resorts of Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada attract tourists from around the globe, not only for their beaches, but also for their clear blue waters, colourful and diverse coral reefs, and of course, fish life.
These locations are perfect for scuba diving, snorkeling, or any number of water sports. The Ras Mohammed National Park is favored by divers for its coral gardens and underwater cliffs and is one of the best dive spots in the world.
In addition to diving and other water based adventures, the resorts offer luxury hotels and luxurious hotels, desert safari trips, nightlife, and more. The combination of opportunities makes for an exciting adventure or relaxing experience at the resorts.
6. Siwa Oasis: A Desert Oasis
Located just near the Libyan border, Siwa is one of the most remote yet beautiful places in all of Egypt. Sara is full of natural beauty and interesting culture, we are surrounded by palm trees and salt lakes.
The oasis has the Oracle Temple of Amun, where Alexander the Great was informed he was a divine ruler. You can bathe in natural hot springs, and visit the Shali Fortress, a ruined mud-brick town that speaks of a former life for Siwa.
Siwa is a peaceful escape that allows you to deeply engage in Berber heritage in Egypt away from the hassles of main tourism areas.
Final Thoughts
Egypt is a country full of surprises. From the gigantic pyramids and ageless temples to the serene oases and sun-soaked beaches, Egypt offers a truly unique mix of travel experiences. Sailing the Nile, walking through ancient tombs, or snorkeling in the Red Sea, every trip to Egypt is a moment in time, an opportunity to engage with one of the oldest civilizations on the planet.
So whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, history, or relaxation, Egypt is just plain fun. Like the Nile, your time spent here will always flow.
