Egypt: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you ready for an unforgettable journey through Egypt? This land of pharaohs is full of ancient wonders, vibrant culture, and stunning beauty. It has been a dream spot for travelers for centuries. From the famous Pyramids of Giza to peaceful Nile River cruises, Egypt offers unique experiences that will amaze you.

Cairo, the bustling capital, is home to over 20 million people. It's the perfect place to start exploring Egypt's best. With the Grand Egyptian Museum opening soon, now is a great time to visit. You'll get to see the treasures that make Egypt a must-see for history lovers and adventurers.

Key Takeaways

• Discover the iconic Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
• Explore the vibrant Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, a hub of traditional crafts and local culture
• Cruise along the serene Nile River, immersing yourself in the ancient sites and landscapes
• Uncover the ancient wonders of Luxor, including the Karnak and Luxor Temples
• Dive into the underwater marvels of the Red Sea, a premier destination for scuba diving and snorkeling

Explore the Iconic Pyramids of Giza

The Pyramids of Giza are Egypt's top attraction and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. They are architectural wonders located just outside Cairo. The site includes the pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, each honoring an Egyptian pharaoh. Near these pyramids is the Great Sphinx, a huge statue with a human head and a lion's body.

The Great Sphinx and the Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure

The Great Pyramid of Khufu, or Pyramid of Cheops, is the biggest and oldest of the Giza pyramids. It was built around 2560-2540 BCE and took two million limestone blocks to make. The Pyramid of Khafre and the Pyramid of Menkaure are also part of the trio, each a remarkable architectural achievement.

Exclusive Access and Private Tours

For a closer look at the Pyramids of Giza, consider a private tour with early access. This lets you avoid the crowds and enjoy the site quietly. You might even have breakfast or lunch with the pyramids as your view. Tickets cost between EGP 540 for general entry and EGP 900 for the Great Pyramid inside, making a private tour a great way to make your visit memorable.

"The Great Pyramid is the most substantial ancient structure still standing on the Earth's surface today."

When visiting the Pyramids of Giza, you'll likely encounter the custom of baksheesh, or tipping. Having small change ready can make this easier. Be ready for steep tips for some services.

The Giza complex is huge, covering 16,500 hectares. Visitors should plan to spend at least four hours there. The best time to go is from October to April, when the weather is nice for exploring outside.

Immerse in the Vibrant Khan El-Khalili Bazaar

No visit to Cairo is complete without exploring the Khan El-Khalili bazaar. This market is alive with activity, where you'll hear "welcome" and "come, have a look" from the vendors. It's a place to dive deep into Egyptian culture, check out traditional crafts, and try local foods like koshary and feteer.

The bazaar has a long history, starting in 1382 by Emir Djaharks el-Khalili. It grew bigger in 1511 under Sultan Qansuh al-Ghawri. Even after damage from Napoleon's invasion in 1798, it was carefully fixed up. Muhammad Ali Pasha added new features like mosques and a library.

Now, the Khan El-Khalili Bazaar is still a key spot for shopping. You'll find everything from beautiful jewelry to traditional textiles and unique brassware. Bargaining is a big part of the fun, helping you get the best prices. The bazaar's design shows off Islamic, Mamluk, and Ottoman styles, making it a sight to see.

"The Khan El-Khalili Bazaar is a true feast for the senses, a place where the essence of Cairo's rich cultural heritage comes alive."

Looking for unique Egyptian gifts, a taste of local food, or just a lively market vibe? The Khan El-Khalili Bazaar is a top spot in Cairo. With its amazing smells, bright colors, and skilled craftsmanship, it's an experience you won't forget. It's the heart of Egyptian culture.

Cruise Along the Nile River

Sailing on the Nile River is a must-do in Egypt. You can pick from many options, like luxury cruises or traditional felucca boats. These trips let you see amazing sunsets, wildlife, and ancient sites along the Nile.

Luxury Nile Cruises and Traditional Felucca Boats

For a fancy trip, think about a luxury Nile cruise. These ships have special tours and guides who know a lot about ancient Egypt. Or, you could try a felucca boat for a real Egyptian feel. These sailboats have been on the Nile for many years.

Explore Ancient Sites Along the Nile

On Nile cruises, you'll visit famous ancient places like the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Karnak. You can get off the boat to see these sites up close. This way, you'll learn more about the area's history.

The Nile River stretches 4,184 miles from Uganda to the Mediterranean Sea. Cruises usually last four or five days. They often go at night and stop for land tours in the cooler parts of the day.

These trips are a great way to dive into ancient Egypt's culture and history. You can pick from luxury cruises or traditional felucca boats. Either way, a Nile River trip is a key part of visiting Egypt.

Discover Ancient Wonders of Luxor

Luxor sits on the ancient city of Thebes' site and is full of history. It's a city on the Nile's east bank that shows off the past's grandeur. The Karnak and Luxor Temples stand tall, showing the city's rich history.

The Karnak and Luxor Temples

The Karnak Temple Complex is the biggest ancient religious site in the world. It has many temples, chapels, and obelisks. Visitors can see the huge Hypostyle Hall with 134 tall columns.

Close by, the Luxor Temple was built during Amenhotep III's reign and grew under Ramses II. It has a big pylon, huge statues, and detailed hieroglyphics.

The Valley of the Kings

On the west bank, the Valley of the Kings is a big draw. It has tombs from the New Kingdom era, like Tutankhamun's tomb. People can see the well-kept hieroglyphics and statues in the tombs.

Staying at the Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor or the Steigenberger Nile Palace lets you dive deep into the city's history. Try local food at Sofra, Al-Sahaby Lane Restaurant, or Nubia for a taste of Egypt.

"Luxor, Egypt is known as the world's greatest open-air museum, boasting a wealth of ancient temples and tombs for exploration."

Luxor has amazing temples, tombs, and a deep cultural history. It's a key spot for anyone wanting to learn about ancient Egypt. From the big Karnak Temple to the Valley of the Kings, it's a place you can't miss.

Egypt: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Egypt is more than just the Pyramids of Giza and Luxor's ancient temples. It offers unforgettable experiences for all kinds of travelers. You can find thrilling adventures, luxurious getaways, or exclusive access to ancient wonders.

Explore the colorful underwater world of the Red Sea. You'll see amazing marine life and top-notch diving spots. Or, head into the Sahara Desert for exciting desert safaris and peaceful oases.

Learn about the Nubian culture by visiting traditional villages. Discover their history and traditions. Then, check out the Egyptian Museum in Cairo for its huge collection of ancient artifacts, including Tutankhamun's treasures.

A Nile River cruise is a must in Egypt. You'll see the beauty of Luxor temples and the Valley of the Kings. Choose a luxury cruise or a felucca boat for a unique experience.

Egypt has something for everyone, from adventure to relaxation and ancient history. Plan your trip now and see the best Egypt has to offer. It will be an unforgettable journey.

Dive into the Red Sea's Underwater Wonders

The Red Sea is on Egypt's eastern coast. It's famous for its clear, salty waters and lively marine life. This makes it a top spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. You can see protected reefs and meet a variety of colorful fish and sea creatures.

World-Class Diving and Snorkeling Spots

The Red Sea has 360 dive days a year because of its great diving conditions. It's home to over 2,100 fish species and 300 coral species, with 10% unique to the area. You might see spinner dolphins, dugongs, and whale sharks at different dive spots.

Some top dive spots in the Red Sea include:

• The Brother Islands, known for their vibrant marine life and pelagic species
• The SS Thistlegorm wreck, a British cargo ship sunk in World War II, offering a unique historical and marine biodiversity experience
• Hurghada, a popular spot for diverse diving experiences easily accessible from the shore

The Red Sea's visibility often goes beyond 40 meters at reefs without sandy bottoms. This makes it a top dive site. You can often see sharks like whitetip reef sharks, grey reef sharks, scalloped hammerheads, and whale sharks at these spots.

Adventures on Land: Quad Biking and Mount Sinai

There's more to do on land too, like quad biking in the desert and hiking up Mount Sinai. This mountain is where Moses is said to have received the Ten Commandments.

Quad biking lets you see the vast desert. Hiking up Mount Sinai gives you amazing views and a peek into the area's history and culture.

"The Red Sea is a true underwater paradise, offering some of the world's best diving and snorkeling experiences." - Jane Doe, avid diver

Uncover Cairo's Historic Gems

The Pyramids of Giza are famous, but Cairo has many more historic sites to see. Visit Old Cairo to see the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As, Egypt's first mosque. You'll also see the ancient Babylon Fortress. In Coptic Cairo, you'll find old churches and Roman ruins that once protected the city.

Old Cairo and the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As

Take a trip back in time in Old Cairo. Here, you'll find the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As, Egypt's oldest mosque. It was built in 642 AD. This place shows the area's deep Islamic history. You can walk through its peaceful courtyards and look at the beautiful architecture. It mixes Islamic and Coptic styles.

Coptic Cairo and the Babylon Fortress

Coptic Cairo is in the city's heart and shows off the area's Christian history. See the Babylon Fortress, a Roman fort from long ago. It used to protect the city. You'll also find Coptic churches like the Hanging Church and the Church of St. George. These places show the area's long history of different religions.

Exploring Cairo's historic sites lets you learn about its rich past. From the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As to the Babylon Fortress, these places tell the story of Cairo's history.

"Cairo is a city of contrasts, where the ancient and the modern coexist in a captivating harmony."

Venture into the Sahara Desert

Get ready to be amazed by the Sahara Desert, a huge and stunning area in Egypt. Start exciting desert safaris to find hidden spots and enjoy the area's stunning beauty.

Desert Safaris and Oases

Go on a desert safari to see beautiful oases. From a rugged 4x4, you'll go over dunes and find peaceful oases. These places have lush palm trees and clear pools. They are a cool break in the desert and show the area's special plants and animals.

Wadi Al-Hitan and Wadi El-Rayan Reserve

Check out Wadi Al-Hitan, known as the "Valley of the Whales," a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has fossils of ancient whales. Then, visit the Wadi El-Rayan Reserve, full of different animals and beauty. Here, you can see birds and other animals that live there.

Choose to explore the Sahara Desert by jeep, quad bike, or horseback. You'll see amazing landscapes that will stay with you. It's a chance to step away from daily life and connect with the beauty of this amazing place.

"The desert is a place of solace, a place where the soul can breathe and the mind can wander." - Rumi

Explore Nubian Culture and Villages

Go beyond the famous pyramids and busy cities of Egypt. Discover the Nubian culture in Aswan's southern region. This community is a rare look into Egypt's diverse heritage.

The Nubian villages near Aswan show the strength and creativity of the Nubian people. Their history goes back over 8,000 years to the Neolithic period. Even after the Aswan High Dam flooded many villages in the 1960s, the Nubians kept their traditions and way of life alive.

Experience the colorful streets and mud-brick buildings of the Aswan Nubian Village. Talk with the locals and learn about their culture. Visit the Nubian Souk, a market full of handmade items, jewelry, spices, and traditional clothes.

See the Nubian art up close, like the henna tattoos on women's hands and traditional music and dance. Try a meal with a local family and taste their unique food, like falafel, foul, and pita bread.

Look at the unique buildings in the Nubian villages. They are made of mud and are colorful. This gives you a close look at the Nubian life and culture.

Explore the Nubian Village by boat or on a guided tour. It's a key part of your Egyptian trip. Enjoy the Nile River views, watch the sunset, and hear stories from the Nubian people.

Take a cultural journey to the Nubian villages of Aswan. You'll find a warm welcome and a deep respect for their traditions.

Conclusion

Egypt is a place that mixes ancient history, lively culture, and exciting outdoor activities. You can see the famous Pyramids of Giza or explore the colorful underwater world of the Red Sea. It's a country that offers a unique travel experience.

It has many top attractions like the Luxor temples, the busy Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, and the huge Sahara Desert. You can take a Nile River cruise, go diving, or learn about Nubian culture. With Trips In Egypt's help, you can easily explore this amazing place and make memories to last a lifetime.

Whether you're traveling alone, with family, or with friends, Egypt will surely impress you. Start this amazing trip and discover the secrets of this ancient land. Get ready to be amazed by Egypt's wonders, a place that will enchant and inspire you.