For anyone interested in ancient history and culture, visiting the country that houses some of the oldest and most notable examples of human civilization and engineering is a must. Though some visitors are satisfied with a tour of the Pyramids of Giza, there is so much more to this fascinating destination. From the Red Pyramid at Dahshur to the magnificent Abu Simbel, it is all awe-inspiring. I have selected 12 of the best things to do in Egypt.
1. Pyramids of Giza
Undoubtedly, this is the most recognised symbol and the most popular thing to do in Egypt. Furthermore, it is the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and the only one to stand the test of time. The Great Pyramid of Giza is Egypt’s, if not the world’s most famous landmark.
It took approximately 2.3 million blocks of stone to create this masterpiece of engineering which stood at nearly 50 stories high upon completion.
As humbling as this monumental structure is today, it was once even more striking. The original casing stones of highly polished Tura limestone once gleamed white in the sunlight, reflecting the sun’s rays.
Much of the casing was cut loose and used to build various houses and mosques in Cairo. Though the rest of the stones were worn away or loosened by earthquakes, it is still noticeable in the inner passages.
A visit is an eye-opening, surreal experience and I highly recommend you go inside.
2. The Great Sphinx of Giza
There are countless sphinxes in Egypt, but the one at Giza is the earliest, most celebrated and largest, measuring a mammoth 73 meters long and 20 meters high.
A sphinx is often included in temple complexes to protect the tombs as the mythical creature, featuring a lion’s body and a human head, is known to be a spiritual guardian.
The Great Sphinx has spent the majority of its life submerged beneath the desert. It was buried up to its shoulders until finally fully excavated from its sandy tomb in the late 1930s.
3. Red Pyramid
Attaining its name from its reddish limestone, the Red Pyramid, also known as the North Pyramid, marks the successful transition between ancient step pyramids and smooth-sided pyramids.
Furthermore, at the time of its completion, the Red Pyramid was the tallest man-made structure in the world. Additionally, it is the third-largest pyramid in Egypt after Khufu and Khafre at Giza.
Although the Red Pyramid is only approximately 25 miles south of Cairo, it’s often overlooked. Nonetheless, if you are genuinely interested in Egyptology or fancy a break from the tourist-ridden areas, it is a worthy addition to your itinerary.
The pyramid is fully accessible and an impressive reminder of the early architecture of the Egyptians.
4. Abu Simbel
Be prepared to be wowed by this significant Nubian monument. Although located just 25 miles from the Sudan border, it is most definitely worth the trek. The site consists of two ancient temples, built by Ramses II and cut into a mountainside of sandstone that overlooks Lake Nasser.
The larger of the two temples depict four gargantuan statues of a seated pharaoh Ramses II at its entrance, while inside, the temples are adorned floor-to-ceiling with the most glorious hieroglyphics, taking you back to times of war and unity between Egypt and Nubia.
This trip will take a lot of time out of your day, but it is most definitely worth it. A must see!
5. Nubian Village
Nubia is one of Africa’s oldest empires and can be traced back to as early as 2000BC. Aswan is surrounded by 60 Nubian villages on the West Bank, and you should visit at least one of them. The people are beautifully warm and will offer a rare perspective on your Egypt trip.
In contrast to the rest of Egypt, the Nubian Villages are, for the most part, inhabited by indigenous Nubian people. The Nubians are known for their unique customs, traditions, beliefs, architecture and history. You can visit to the village from Aswan by car or boat.
Stroll through the colourful village and the lively bazaar where locals trade handmade crafts. See Exploring the Nubian Village in Aswan, Egypt.
6. Hot air balloon over the Valley of the Kings
Add floating over the Valley of the Kings in a hot air balloon to your travel bucket list. Being in the heavens for approximately 45 minutes means it can get a bit chilly. Nevertheless, you will not only be physically sky high but also high in spirit as you marvel at the ancient ruins as the sun (Ra) rises.
It’s an early start, with collection from your hotel at around 04.00 am for a drive to the Nile River. From there, you will be transported by motorboat to the West Bank of the river to start your balloon ride. It’s an experience to remember, and you will receive a flight certificate and souvenir at the end of the tour to ensure that you do.
7. Karnak Temple
Karnak Temple was the heart of Egypt during the New Kingdom, and the vast open site, which consists of a group of temples, is one of the world’s largest religious complexes.
After passing the avenue of ram-head sphinxes, the Hypostyle Hall, still believed to be the largest room of any religious building, will dwarf you against its 134 gigantic columns.
The Sacred Lake, which forms part of the complex, is the largest of its kind. The lake, dug by Tuthmosis III (1473-1458 BCE), was historically used by priests for purification and other rituals.
Karnak Temple is believed to be the second most visited historical site in Egypt after the Pyramids at Giza.
8. Felucca on the Nile
Glide along the world’s longest river in a felucca while embodying Nefertiti. Feluccas are simple, traditional Egyptian sailboats that have adorned the timeless river since ancient times. As the boats rarely have any form of engine, they are entirely reliant on the breeze that pushes them upriver, returning on the Nile’s current downstream.
Enjoy the simple pleasure of cruising the tranquil waters whilst drinking Egyptian tea and soaking up the superb views – the perfect way to relax after a busy day of touring.
9. Saqqara
Saqqara is a former necropolis for the ancient Egyptian capital of Memphis. The extensive archaeological site is based approximately 20 miles south of Cairo.
There are many tombs to explore here, but the most famous structure on the complex is the Step Pyramid, also known as the Pyramid of Djoser. The Step Pyramid is a magnificent reminder of the early construction of the Old Kingdom. Additionally, with construction taking place around 4,700 years ago, it is considered to be the oldest pyramid in Egypt.
10. Nubian Museum
The Nubian Museum is a gateway to the history of Nubia and serves as a focal point for Nubian memoir and culture. Spend some time tracing Nubia’s history with exhibits from 6,500 years ago to the present day.
The museum, established in association with UNESCO in 1997, houses antiquities salvaged during the construction of the Aswan High Dam in the 1960s.
11. The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities
The Egyptian Museum, also known as the Museum of Cairo, has the most extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts in the world.
The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is due to open towards the end of this year, and when it does, it will be the largest museum dedicated to a single civilization. Conveniently, the new location overlooks the famous pyramids at the Giza plateau.
12. Go Scuba Diving in the Red Sea
After being wowed by all Egypt offers above the water, explore the fascinating, vibrant marine life it offers below in the Red sea.
The Red Sea is one of the most popular dive destinations in the world, and both Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh offer a superb range of diving tours, with sites just a short boat ride away. The country’s year-round sunshine means the water is warm, visibility superb, and the stunning, multi-coloured coral reef and fishes mind-blowing. The resort town of Hurghada is also ideal for relaxing after all that touring.
What’s on your list of the best things to do in Egypt? Comment below.
