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Egypt
Africa
Visit Egypt
Egypt, a country linking northeast Africa with the Middle East, dates to the time of the pharaohs. Millennia-old monuments sit along the fertile Nile River Valley, including Giza's colossal Pyramids and Great Sphinx as well as Luxor's hieroglyph-lined Karnak Temple and Valley of the Kings tombs. The capital, Cairo, is home to Ottoman landmarks like Muhammad Ali Mosque and the Egyptian Museum, a trove of antiquities.
Visiting Egypt is like stepping back into the pages of ancient history. The country's rich heritage is evident in its iconic archaeological sites. The Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, are a must-see. These grand structures were built as tombs for the mighty Pharaohs and are guarded by the mysterious Sphinx. A cruise down the Nile, the lifeline of Egypt, offers a picturesque view of the countryside and stops at various key historical sites. Luxor and Aswan, with their temples and monuments, tell tales of a bygone era that shaped the world's history.
Cairo, the vibrant capital, offers a blend of modernity and tradition. The bustling Khan el-Khalili bazaar is a treasure trove of handicrafts, spices, and jewelry, perfect for those looking to take a piece of Egypt home. The city's streets are lined with cafes where one can taste local delicacies like koshari and falafel, while watching the world go by. The Egyptian Museum in Cairo is another highlight, housing an extensive collection of ancient Egyptian antiquities, including the treasures of Tutankhamun.
Beyond the historical allure, Egypt's natural landscapes offer stunning vistas and activities. The Red Sea is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, making it a paradise for divers and snorkelers. In contrast, the Western Desert provides a stark yet beautiful landscape, featuring the Black and White Deserts, and Siwa Oasis, an isolated spot that offers a glimpse into the lives of Egypt's Berber community. Whether exploring ancient ruins, bargaining in a local market, or sailing the Nile, a trip to Egypt is an unforgettable journey through time and culture.
Find your Next Adventure in Egypt
Explore Egypt
Iconic Landmarks
Pyramids of Giza
- The Pyramids of Giza, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu, are ancient monumental tombs that stand as a testament to Egypt's powerful Pharaonic era.
Great Sphinx of Giza
- Located near the Pyramids, this colossal limestone statue with the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh is one of the world's oldest and largest statues.
Karnak Temple
- The Karnak Temple Complex in Luxor is a vast mix of decayed temples, chapels, pylons, and other buildings, and was one of the most important religious centers in ancient Egypt.
Valley of the Kings
- Situated on the west bank of the Nile near Luxor, this burial ground for pharaohs such as Tutankhamun is famous for its well-preserved and richly decorated tombs.
Abu Simbel Temples
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Islamic Cairo
- This historic area of Cairo is known for its ancient mosques, madrasas, hammams, and fortifications, dating from the Islamic era of Egypt.
Cultural Experiences
Visit the Pyramids of Giza
- Explore the iconic pyramids and the Sphinx, marveling at the ancient engineering feats of the pharaohs.
Tour the Egyptian Museum in Cairo
- Discover Egypt's rich history through thousands of artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun.
Walk through the Khan El-Khalili Bazaar
- Experience the bustling atmosphere of one of the oldest markets in the Middle East, offering traditional crafts and spices.
Cruise the Nile River
- Take a relaxing cruise down the Nile, witnessing timeless landscapes and ancient monuments along its banks.
Attend a traditional Sufi dance performance
- Experience the spiritual and mesmerizing Whirling Dervishes, a traditional dance rooted in Sufi traditions.
Explore the temples of Luxor and Karnak
- Visit these sprawling temple complexes to see stunning hieroglyphics, colossal statues, and ancient shrines.
Outdoor Adventures
Scuba Diving in the Red Sea
Explore vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life in one of the world's top diving destinations.
Desert Safari in the Sahara
Traverse the expansive dunes on a 4x4, camel, or quad bike, experiencing the vastness and beauty of the desert.
Climbing Mount Sinai
Hike to the summit for a breathtaking sunrise, following the ancient steps where Moses is said to have received the Ten Commandments.
Kitesurfing in Dahab
Catch the wind and waves in this world-renowned kitesurfing spot, suitable for both beginners and advanced surfers.
Felucca Sailing on the Nile
Sail on a traditional wooden boat, experiencing the tranquility and scenic views along the longest river in the world.
Hot Air Ballooning in Luxor
Float above the historic temples and tombs of Luxor at sunrise for a spectacular aerial view of this ancient city.
Off the Beaten Path
Siwa Oasis
- Nestled in the Western Desert, Siwa Oasis is a serene paradise known for its unique blend of Berber culture, ancient ruins, and natural springs.
White Desert National Park
- Famous for its surreal, chalk-white landscapes and massive limestone formations, this park offers a stunningly alien backdrop for camping and stargazing.
Dahshur
- Less crowded than Giza, Dahshur is home to some of the oldest, largest, and best-preserved pyramids in Egypt, including the Red Pyramid and the Bent Pyramid.
Abydos
- A pilgrimage site of the ancient Egyptians, Abydos boasts fascinating temples and tombs, with the Temple of Seti I containing some of the most exquisite bas-reliefs in Egypt.
Fayoum
- A city rich in history and nature, Fayoum features ancient ruins, beautiful waterfalls, and a large saltwater lake, making it perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Nuweiba
- A tranquil town on the east coast of the Sinai Peninsula, Nuweiba is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and the scenic backdrop of the Sinai mountains.
Egypt Fun Facts
- The Great Pyramid of Giza is the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and the only one still largely intact.
- Ancient Egyptians invented the 365-days a year calendar.
- The world’s oldest dress was found in Egypt and is about 5,000 years old.
- The Great Sphinx of Giza is one of the largest and oldest statues in the world but the origins and history of its construction are still debated.
- Egyptians were among the first to use mathematics, including the invention of algebra and geometry.
- The Nile River, the longest river in the world, was the lifeline of ancient Egyptian civilization.
- Ancient Egyptians practiced mummification to preserve bodies for the afterlife, a process that could take up to 70 days.
- Hieroglyphics, a formal writing system used by the ancient Egyptians, combines logographic and alphabetic elements.
- Cats were considered sacred in ancient Egypt, and killing one, even accidentally, often resulted in death penalties.
- The first known labor strike in recorded history occurred in Egypt when tomb builders and artisans did not receive their rations.
Featured Picture Gallery
The Great Pyramid of Giza is Mad of Limestone, Granite, and Mortar
Aerial Shot of the Great Pyramids and Giza
The Great Sphinx Stands on the Giza Plateau
Camel Rides are a Popular Activity at the Giza Pyramids Complex