Things to Do in Egypt

Witness the last standing wonder of the ancient world. The sheer scale and precision of these monumental tombs, built for pharaohs like Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, truly leave you in awe. Don't miss the chance to see the enigmatic Sphinx guarding the complex.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic souk in Cairo. Dating back to the 14th century, it's a labyrinth of narrow alleys filled with spices, jewelry, textiles, and souvenirs. Practice your bargaining skills and enjoy a traditional mint tea at El Fishawy's.

Explore the massive open-air museum that is the Temple of Karnak in Luxor. This sprawling complex, dedicated to the Theban Triad, was built over thousands of years and features colossal columns, obelisks, and sanctuaries. The Hypostyle Hall with its 134 massive columns is simply breathtaking.

Journey to the necropolis where pharaohs and powerful nobles of the New Kingdom were buried. Marvel at the vibrant, well-preserved tomb paintings and hieroglyphics in tombs like Tutankhamun's, Ramesses VI's, and Seti I's. The sheer artistry and detail underground are astounding.

Delve into the treasures of ancient Egypt at the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in Giza once it fully opens. Currently, the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square houses an unparalleled collection, including the golden funerary mask of Tutankhamun and countless artifacts from various dynasties. It's an essential stop for any history enthusiast.

Experience the beauty of Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, on Agilkia Island near Aswan. This Ptolemaic temple was meticulously relocated by UNESCO to save it from the rising waters of the Aswan High Dam. The boat ride to the island and the island setting itself add to its charm.

Undertake a journey to the colossal rock-cut temples of Abu Simbel, built by Pharaoh Ramesses II. These twin temples, especially the Great Temple with its four massive seated statues of Ramesses II, are a testament to ancient Egyptian engineering and power. They were also famously relocated in a monumental UNESCO effort.

Explore the vast royal necropolis of Saqqara, home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, considered the world's first stone building. This sprawling archaeological site offers a glimpse into early dynastic burial practices and features impressive mastaba tombs with detailed relief carvings. The Imhotep Museum is also worth a visit.

Discover a beautifully curated collection of artifacts from Luxor and the surrounding area at the Luxor Museum. Unlike the vast Egyptian Museum in Cairo, this museum is smaller and more focused, allowing for a more intimate viewing experience of masterpieces like statues from the Karnak cachette and items from Tutankhamun's tomb. It's a fantastic complement to exploring the temples themselves.

Savor a quintessential Egyptian street food: a piping hot felafel sandwich. Unlike the smooth, fava bean-based felafel found elsewhere, Egyptian felafel are typically made with broad beans, resulting in a delightfully crisp exterior and fluffy green interior. Look for a busy vendor for the freshest bite.

Experience koshary, Egypt's national dish, at one of Cairo's most famous institutions, Abou Tarek. This hearty and flavorful vegetarian dish combines rice, macaroni, and lentils, topped with chickpeas and fried onions, and then drizzled with a tangy tomato sauce and a spicy chili sauce. It's a unique and satisfying meal.

Learn the secrets of Egyptian cuisine during a hands-on cooking class in Luxor. Discover how to prepare classic dishes like mulukhiyah, mahshi (stuffed vegetables), or besarah, and then enjoy the fruits of your labor. It's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in local culture and take home new culinary skills.

Warm up with a comforting cup of sahlab, a creamy, sweet milk pudding drink, especially popular in cooler months. Often garnished with cinnamon, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts, it's a delightful treat. Find a cozy local cafe for an authentic experience.

Soar above the West Bank of Luxor at sunrise in a hot air balloon for an unforgettable perspective of ancient Egypt. Gaze down at the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, and the Colossi of Memnon as the golden light bathes the desert landscape. It's a truly magical and breathtaking experience.

Embark on an exhilarating overnight jeep safari into the otherworldly landscapes of Egypt's White Desert. Marvel at the unique chalk rock formations sculpted by wind and sand, resembling giant mushrooms and icebergs. Enjoy a Bedouin-style dinner under a blanket of stars. It's an incredible escape from the city.

Explore the vibrant underwater world of the Red Sea, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life. Whether you're a seasoned diver or just want to snorkel, destinations like Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada offer incredible coral reefs, colorful fish, and even shipwrecks. It's a world-class aquatic playground.

Unleash your inner adventurer with a quad biking excursion through the vast desert landscapes surrounding Red Sea resorts like Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh. Feel the thrill as you kick up sand dunes and explore wadis, often including a visit to a Bedouin tent for tea. It's a fun, dusty, and adrenaline-pumping activity.

Take a day trip to Alexandria, Egypt's second-largest city, founded by Alexander the Great. Explore sights like the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, Pompey's Pillar, the Roman Amphitheatre, and the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina. It offers a fascinating contrast to the pharaonic wonders of Upper Egypt.

Embark on a classic multi-day Nile River cruise between Luxor and Aswan. This allows for a relaxed and scenic way to visit numerous ancient temples and tombs along the riverbanks, including Edfu and Kom Ombo, all while enjoying the serene beauty of the Nile. It's an iconic Egyptian experience.

Venture to the remote and enchanting Siwa Oasis, an isolated Berber settlement in the Western Desert. Discover ancient ruins like the Temple of the Oracle of Amun, swim in refreshing natural springs, and explore the unique cultural traditions of the Siwans. It's a truly off-the-beaten-path experience.