Egypt, known as the land of pharaohs, pyramids, and mummies, has been attracting travelers from all over the world for centuries. With its fascinating history, rich culture, delicious cuisine, breathtaking beaches, and sprawling deserts, Egypt has something to offer for everyone. If you’re planning to travel, here’s why Egypt should be at the top of your travel bucket list.
The Pyramids of Giza
No trip to Egypt is complete without visiting the Pyramids of Giza, one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. Built over 4,500 years ago, these pyramids are a testament to the engineering genius of the ancient Egyptians. The Great Pyramid of Giza, the largest of the three pyramids, stands at a height of 147 meters and was the tallest man-made structure in the world until the 19th century.
Visitors can explore the pyramids, learn about their construction, and marvel at the hieroglyphics etched onto their walls. They can also take a camel or horse ride around the pyramids to capture stunning photos of this ancient era in the desert. During the evening, the pyramids are lit up and give a magical glow, and you can witness their fantastic laser show that portrays Egyptian history and mythology.
The Nile River Cruise
The Nile River is the lifeblood of Egypt and the longest river in the world, stretching over 6,650 kilometers. A Nile River cruise offers a unique perspective of the country, with views of ancient temples, fertile valleys, and picturesque landscapes that are inaccessible by road.
While taking a Nile River cruise, you can explore the ruins of temples dedicated to gods and pharaohs, see the Valley of the Queens, the Karnak Temple, and Luxor Temple, and take in the beauty of the Nile River scenery. Visitors can choose from a variety of Nile cruise packages that range from three nights to seven-night cruises, providing an immersive experience to explore different aspects of Egypt.
The Red Sea
If you’re looking for relaxing beach vibes, head to the Red Sea Coastlines. Its crystal-clear waters and stunning coral reefs make it one of the world’s best diving and snorkeling destinations. Visitors can explore the vibrant marine life and see underwater sculptures, statues, and shipwrecks that have become the reef’s new residents.
There’s more to be enjoyed than just diving; visitors can indulge in a luxurious spa day, shop for souvenirs, visit nearby outdoor markets, or take a glass-bottomed boat to see the underwater world without getting wet.
Karnak Temple
One of the world’s most significant ancient religious complexes is the Karnak Temple, located in Luxor. Its construction took over 2,000 years to complete, making it an amazing feat of ancient construction.
While visiting the Karnak Temple, visitors can explore its different temples and pillars that date back to 2134 BC. You can also see the Great Hypostyle Hall, the largest columned hall in the world, and the sacred lake where pharaohs once bathed in holy water. The sound and light show at Karnak temple is a must-visit to witness how ancient Egypt vanished into darkness and emerged into the glorious days of the powerful pharaohs and kings.
The Egyptian Museum
The Egyptian Museum of Antiquities is home to over 120,000 artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun. This museum is a treasure trove of ancient Egyptian art, culture, and history. The museum is home to ancient mummies, statues, hieroglyphics, jewelry, and sarcophagi, making it one of the world’s most extensive collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts.
Visitors can take guided tours around specific sections of the museum or opt for an audio guide. They can learn about the country’s past and marvel at artifacts that date back to more than 5,000 years ago.
The Sahara Desert
The Sahara Desert covers a large portion of Egypt, and visitors can experience its beauty and diversity in many ways. From camel rides to sandboarding, visitors can explore the dunes and witness the stunning scenery that the desert has to offer.
Travelers can take tours to the Siwa Oasis, where they can swim in natural water springs, admire the sand dunes, and enjoy local crafts, jewelry, and embroidery. They can also visit the White Desert, where unique rock formations provide a stunning contrast to the desert’s gold and silver sands.
The Food
Egyptian cuisine is a sumptuous blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, with staples like falafel and hummus, spicy tomato sauces and dips like baba ganoush. When in Egypt, visitors can’t miss on trying traditional dishes such as Koshary (a pasta, rice, and lentil dish), Feteer (a puff pastry), and Ful Medames (a delicious bean dish).
Egypt is also famous for its street food treats, from crispy falafel and savory kebabs to sweet and syrupy Loukoumades, Honey Bricks, and Umm Ali (the Egyptian equivalent of bread pudding).
Tips and Advice
When traveling to Egypt, it’s essential to keep the following tips in mind to make the trip a smooth and enjoyable experience:
- Check the weather conditions as it varies from region to region
- Do not drink tap water, always drink filtered or bottled water
- Be respectful of cultural norms and dress conservatively when entering places of worship
- Hire an official tour guide or book tours with reputable tour companies
- Negotiate prices when shopping in markets
- Take precautions to avoid pickpocketing or any form of theft
Conclusion
Egypt is a country that’s steeped in ancient history, culture, and beauty. With its stunning attractions such as the Pyramids of Giza, the Nile River, beautiful beaches, iconic temples like Karnak, and mouthwatering cuisine, it’s no wonder why Egypt should be the top destination for every travel bucket list. Planning a trip and experiencing what it has to offer is a must for every traveler seeking a taste of history and adventure.