One of many oldest vacationer locations on this planet, the African nation is residence to world-famous historical websites and legendary nationwide treasures which were wowing crowds for hundreds of years. From gorgeous historic websites to boho seashore resorts, listed here are my favorite locations I’d like to share with you…
1. Alexandria
Sharing the identical stretch of coast as Tunisia and Libya, Egypt’s second-largest metropolis feels as Mediterranean and cosmopolitan as Marseille or Athens.
It was as soon as a really trendy metropolis recognized for its époque buildings and grand squares. Though its charms have pale a bit of, I nonetheless suppose it must be added to your checklist!
For peace, head to the regal Montazah Palace Gardens, or on your historical past and structure repair, strive the Citadel of Qaitbay, an impressive-looking Fifteenth-century fortress.
Alternatively, select one of many many vintage espresso homes, sip espresso, and puff on a water pipe whereas searching over the Mediterranean Sea.
- Location: Northern coast of the nation.
- Greatest time to go to: Spring and Autumn (for gentle temperatures and to keep away from the summer time warmth).
- Actions on supply: Visiting the Citadel of Qaitbay, exploring Bibliotheca Alexandrina, strolling alongside the Corniche, and visiting Montazah Palace Gardens.
- Lodging: 4 Seasons Lodge Alexandria at San Stefano, Windsor Palace Lodge, and Helnan Royal Palestine Lodge.
- Map Location and Instructions
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2. Cairo
When you recover from the chaos, tradition shock, and in-your-face touts, this metropolis is a traveller’s dream! Historical past followers can even be of their aspect right here, with age-old traditions completely preserved in each metropolis nook.
In fact, there may be additionally an limitless provide of historical temples, tombs, church buildings, monuments, and museums to discover.
Don’t go away with out visiting the well-known Khan el-Khalili souk or different avenue markets, particularly if you wish to fill up on exotic-looking carpets and brass trinkets!
- Location: Northern a part of the nation.
- Greatest time to go to: Spring and Autumn (for comfy climate and fewer crowds at main sights).
- Actions on supply: Visiting the Pyramids of Giza, touring the Egyptian Museum, exploring Islamic and Coptic Cairo, and purchasing in Khan El Khalili Bazaar​.
- Lodging: Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski, Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezirah, and Fairmont Nile Metropolis Lodge.
- Map Location and Instructions
3. The Pink Sea Coast
A spotlight of many travellers to Egypt is Sharm el Sheik, a vacation resort crammed with luxurious inns, casinos, nightclubs, and vacationers getting their solar, sea, and sand fixes. Sharm el-Sheikh holidays are very talked-about, though the true great thing about this space is the Pink Sea.
The Pink Sea’s clear azure waters and an unbelievable quantity of unique fish and coral are why it’s so extremely considered a diving vacation spot.
It arguably gives a number of the world’s greatest diving and snorkelling experiences. Seize some scuba gear (and an skilled teacher) and have a look for your self!
- Location: Jap a part of the nation.
- Greatest time to go to: Spring and Autumn (for heat waters, excellent for diving and snorkeling)​.
- Actions on supply: Scuba diving, snorkeling, kitesurfing, and seashore rest​.
- Lodging: Rixos Sharm El Sheikh, Baron Palms Sharm El Sheikh, and Premier Le Reve Lodge & Spa.
- Map Location and Instructions
4. Pyramids at Giza
A world-famous attraction, I feel no customer ought to go away with out visiting the Nice Pyramids and the Sphinx of Giza. They’re the one remaining seven wonders of the world of the traditional world and over 4600 years previous.
They’re an imposing sight, and the entire advanced continues to be mysterious.
If time is a matter, you’ll be able to see the primary components of the Pyramid web site in round 2 hours, but when your schedule permits, it’s best to spend a full day on this space.
- Location: Western outskirts of Cairo, within the northern a part of the nation.
- Greatest time to go to: Spring and Autumn (for nice climate with out the intense summer time warmth)​.
- Actions on supply: Exploring the Nice Pyramid, visiting the Sphinx, camel rides, and guided historic excursions​.
- Lodging: Marriott Mena Home, Le Meridien Pyramids Lodge & Spa, and Panorama Pyramids Inn.
- Map Location and Instructions
5. Luxor
I personally suppose this is among the greatest cities to discover in Egypt. Just a few locations on this planet might be referred to as open-air museums, however the Egyptian metropolis of Luxor is one in all them.
The quantity and preservation of the monuments within the Luxor space are unparalleled anyplace else on this planet, and I feel a visit right here wouldn’t be full with no go to.
Spend a day or two on the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens, which every home over 60 carved underground tombs. I additionally advocate visiting the very spectacular Luxor and Karnak temples!
- Location: Southern a part of the nation.
- Greatest time to go to: Winter (for cooler temperatures, very best for exploring temples and tombs).
- Actions on supply: Touring the Valley of the Kings, visiting Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, and having fun with a sound and lightweight present at Karnak.
- Lodging: Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa, Winter Palace Luxor, and Steigenberger Nile Palace Lodge​.
- Map Location and Instructions
6. The Nile River
The easiest way to discover one of many world’s most well-known rivers is by a cruise lasting quite a lot of days. The gorgeous Nile is crammed with fascinating natural world, and a visit to this Egyptian delight gives you an fascinating perception into the agricultural components of the nation.
You’ll additionally get to cease at loads of well-known temples and different historical websites of curiosity. Nevertheless, if boats usually are not your factor, head for the banks of Aswan to observe the sundown on one of the crucial stunning stretches of the Nile.
- Location: Runs from the southern to the northern a part of the nation, ending within the Mediterranean Sea.
- Greatest time to go to: Winter (for comfy climate throughout river cruises)​
- Actions on supply: River cruises, felucca crusing, visiting riverside temples, and having fun with a sundown on the water.
- Lodging: Mövenpick MS Solar Ray Nile Cruise, Sonesta St. George Nile Cruise, and Oberoi Philae Nile Cruise.
- Map Location and Instructions
7. Dahab
Dahab is a laid-back resort city on the Sinai Peninsula’s Southeast coast. This stunning city attracts hippies and travellers who need to keep in a peaceable location that isn’t full of vacationers year-round. I’m an enormous fan of Dahab, principally due to its laid-back boho vibe!
You’ll benefit from the golden sandy seashores with unbelievable ocean views that stretch throughout the Gulf to Saudi Arabia’s Hijaz Mountains.
There may be loads of magnificence beneath the water, with corals and marine fauna, so Dahab is taken into account among the best places for scuba diving and snorkelling on the peninsula.
The well-known Blue Gap can be situated close to Dahab — a gaping sinkhole carved right into a reef. Its stunning sparkling-blue water is a tremendous sight. It’s also possible to enterprise into the Bedouin desert to the West of Dahab.
- Location: Jap a part of the Sinai Peninsula, alongside the Gulf of Aqaba.
- Greatest time to go to: Spring and Autumn (for optimum diving circumstances and fewer vacationers).
- Actions on supply: Scuba diving on the Blue Gap, windsurfing, camel treks, and snorkeling​.
- Lodging: Dahab Paradise Lodge, Le Meridien Dahab Resort, and Swiss Inn Resort Dahab.
- Map Location and Instructions
8. Mount Sinai
When you keep within the Cairo space, this can be a 1-2 day journey. Nevertheless, Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula is unquestionably well worth the journey and has a distinct really feel from the remainder of the nation.
Mount Sinai is a well-liked attraction. It has enormous non secular significance and is talked about many occasions within the Guide of Exodus, the Bible, and the Quran.
In Christianity, it’s the place the place Moses obtained the Ten Commandments. Climbing this holy mountain is a well-liked exercise, and lots of even select to hike by the evening or keep in a lodge to get up early (2 or 3 am) and watch a dawn of biblical proportions.
- Location: Southern a part of the Sinai Peninsula.
- Greatest time to go to: Spring and Autumn (for comfy mountaineering circumstances and to keep away from excessive temperatures).
- Actions on supply: Climbing to the summit for dawn, visiting Saint Catherine’s Monastery, and images of panoramic views​.
- Lodging: Catherine Plaza Lodge, Daniela Village St. Catherine, and Morgenland Village.
- Map Location and Instructions
9. Saint Catherine’s Monastery
Saint Catherine’s Monastery is slightly below Mount Sinai. It’s an historical and important vacationer web site that has UNESCO World Heritage Web site standing and is, actually, the oldest working monastery on this planet. St.Catherine’s is an uncommon and surprisingly stunning constructing juxtaposed in opposition to acres of dry, arid landscapes.
You’ll find the water effectively the place Moses met his spouse, see the ancestor of the well-known burning bush, and take a look at the cage of previous monks’ skulls. Macabrely, it’s also possible to see what is claimed to be the preserved hand of the true Saint Catherine.
- Location: Southern a part of the Sinai Peninsula, on the base of Mount Sinai.
- Greatest time to go to: Spring and Autumn (for gentle temperatures, excellent for exploration).
- Actions on supply: Touring the monastery, mountaineering close by trails, and visiting historic artifacts.
- Lodging: Bedouin Camp, St. Catherine’s Monastery Guesthouse, and Catherine Plaza Lodge.
- Map Location and Instructions
10. Siwa Oasis
Positioned off the crushed monitor between the Qattara Melancholy and the Egyptian Sand Sea (within the Libyan Desert) it has its personal distinct Siwan tradition which differs from the mainstream Arabic tradition.
The Siwans communicate their language, and this space is understood for its sizzling springs, effective jewelry, and engaging dates and olives. Make a journey right here and relax for some time, swim, or strive your luck at sandboarding.
- Location: Western a part of the nation.
- Greatest time to go to: Winter (for comfy climate, avoiding the extreme desert warmth).
- Actions on supply: Visiting the Temple of the Oracle, swimming in pure springs, exploring Shali Fortress, and desert safaris.
- Lodging: Adrere Amellal Eco-Lodge, Siwa Shali Resort, and Taziry Ecolodge.
- Map Location and Instructions
11. White Desert
The fabled White Desert of Egypt is a really fascinating space. It may be discovered 28 miles north of the city of Farafra. The desert has an otherworldly magnificence with weird, ghost-white rock formations sprouting from the desert sands.
The unusual buildings are enormous chalk formations created by occasional sandstorms within the space. For a surreal expertise, take a four-wheel drive by the desert or keep in a single day.
- Location: Western a part of the nation.
- Greatest time to go to: Winter (for gentle temperatures, very best for tenting and exploring distinctive rock formations).
- Actions on supply: Tenting, exploring distinctive rock formations, guided desert excursions, and images.
- Lodging: Al-Farafra Lodge, Desert Rose Lodge, and tenting in conventional Bedouin tents.
- Map Location and Instructions
12. Hurghada
Hurghada is a shocking resort city situated on the Northeast coast of Egypt, slightly below the Gulf of Suez. A greater description of Hurghada can be the Hurghada Riviera, which stretches 40 miles alongside the Pink Sea Coast and is residence to many luxurious resorts.
Initially a fishing city, Hurghada has grown rapidly over the previous few a long time to turn out to be a vacationer hotspot. The area gives many wonderful eating places, vacationer sights, and lodging choices.
This contains luxurious resorts like Makadi Bay, Sahl Hasheesh, and El Gouna, making it the right location to be pampered. Nevertheless, the spotlight of this vacation spot is the gorgeous pure great thing about Hurghada.
There are various pristine seashores with vivid white sand and crystal clear water. The shoreline can be dotted with coral reefs, so Hurghada is among the nation’s hottest places for diving and snorkelling.
When you intend to discover the reefs, take a look at Careless Reef, Giftun Islands, and Omo Gamaar. It’s also possible to swim with the dolphins off the coast of the Aden Seaside Resort.
Lastly, you’ll want to go to the Jap Arabian Desert. Many excursions can be found, and actions embrace quad biking and visiting historic websites.
- Location: Northeastern a part of the nation.
- Greatest time to go to: Spring and Autumn (for heat waters and good circumstances for seashore actions).
- Actions on supply: Snorkeling at Giftun Island, scuba diving, windsurfing, and having fun with a desert safari by jeep​.
- Lodging: Steigenberger Al Dau Seaside Lodge, Jaz Aquamarine Resort, and Baron Palace Sahl Hasheesh​.
- Map Location and Instructions
13. The Fjord Bay (Taba)
This vibrant little city is situated on the northern tip of the Gulf of Aqaba. Regardless of its small dimension, it may get busy as a result of it’s used as a border crossing into Israel.
Many sights round Taba embrace Pink Sea Water World Taba Heights, Citadel Zaman, Canyon Motor Sports activities, and the gorgeous Salah El-Din Citadel.
The panorama is attractive, and you’ll be continually amazed by the scenic places. Fjord Bay is a brief drive from Taba.
It’s a pure bay that has turn out to be a preferred spot for swimming, diving, mountaineering, climbing, boating, and lots of different out of doors actions. The bay is surrounded by rolling hills which gently sweep all the way down to the gorgeous aqua-blue water. It’s a picturesque location that you just gained’t neglect.
- Location: Northeastern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, close to the Gulf of Aqaba.
- Greatest time to go to: Spring and Autumn (for optimum snorkeling and diving circumstances).
- Actions on supply: Swimming, snorkeling, boat journeys, and visiting Salah El-Din Citadel​.
- Lodging: Taba Lodge & Nelson Village, Strand Seaside & Golf Resort Taba Heights, and Mövenpick Resort Taba.
- Map Location and Instructions
14. Aswan
Aswan is a historic metropolis on the southern finish of the Nile River. It’s a beautiful metropolis in an idyllic location with a pristine pure atmosphere and scenic views.
Along with being located in a picturesque a part of Egypt, the town is full of many wonderful historical buildings that give it a pleasant atmosphere.
Aswan is among the oldest cities within the nation and has a wealthy historical past courting again many hundreds of years. It’s a stunning metropolis with many places, together with the Aswan Botanical Gardens, Ruins of Abu, Tombs of the Nobles, and Elephantine Island.
It’s the excellent location for studying extra about Egypt’s wealthy tradition and huge historical past.
- Location: Southern a part of the nation.
- Greatest time to go to: Winter (for cooler climate, appropriate for exploring historic websites)​
- Actions on supply: Visiting Philae Temple, crusing to Elephantine Island, touring the Nubian Museum, and seeing the Excessive Dam.
- Lodging: Sofitel Legend Previous Cataract Aswan, Mövenpick Resort Aswan, and Basma Lodge Aswan.
- Map Location and Instructions
15. Abu Simbel Temples
The Abu Simbel Temples are one in all Egypt’s most immediately recognisable historic sights.
The traditional Egyptians constructed large rock temples between 1264 BC and 1244 BC. Generally known as the Temple of Ramesses, beloved by Amun, they’re one in all six rock templates in-built Nubia through the reign of Ramesses II.
The dimensions of the Abu Simbel Temples is unbelievable. They’ve a timeless magnificence that continues to draw thousands and thousands of holiday makers every year.
- Location: Southern a part of the nation.
- Greatest time to go to: Winter (for comfy temperatures and to coincide with the Abu Simbel Pageant in February)​.
- Actions on supply: Exploring the temples, attending the Solar Pageant, and guided historic excursions.
- Lodging: Nefertari Lodge Abu Simbel, Eskaleh Nubian Ecolodge, and Seti Abu Simbel Lake Resort.
- Map Location and Instructions
16. Nuweiba
Nuweiba is a coastal city on the East coast of the Sinai peninsula. It’s a lovely metropolis for holidays, surrounded by the pristine aqua-blue waters of the Gulf of Aqaba and the brilliant purple sands of Sinai.
There are various stunning sights to see in Nuweiba, together with the Colored Canyon, a slender path surrounded by fantastically colored rock formations.
You can be amazed by the color variations within the rocks, which vary from darkish purple to vivid yellow. Bedouin tour guides will aid you by the canyons and clarify the importance of the canyon of their tradition.
One other must-see expertise close to Nuweiba is Ain Khudra, a pure oasis close to the city. It’s usually used as a mountaineering vacation spot and place to meditate.
The gorgeous palm timber and tranquil water pool are gorgeous. Many unbelievable pure rock sculptures and carvings encompass this space.
There are additionally loads of places to dive off the coast of Nuweiba, together with Duna Reef and Coral Island. The coral is plentiful, and you’ll benefit from the numerous marine flora.
- Location: Jap coast of the Sinai Peninsula, alongside the Gulf of Aqaba.
- Greatest time to go to: Spring and Autumn (for heat climate and seashore actions with out the summer time warmth).
- Actions on supply: Snorkeling, seashore rest, and camel rides alongside the coast.
- Lodging: Coral Resort Nuweiba, Elaria Seaside Resort, and Habiba Seaside Lodge.
- Map Location and Instructions
17. Berenice (Baranis)
Positioned within the Pink Sea Governorate, Berenice was based as a buying and selling port in 275 BC and rapidly turned an essential financial centre within the area.
One of the thrilling places close to Berenice is the Temple of Semiramis, constructed by Trajan and Tiberius. This huge Roman temple is in wonderful situation and is among the most spectacular sights within the area.
The temple’s outer partitions are adorned with numerous artworks, together with depictions of Emperor Tiberius earlier than the god Min and the deity of the Inexperienced Mines (situated close by).
The coast of Berenice has many pristine pure bays and coves to take pleasure in. It’s also possible to discover the gorgeous island of Zabargad, beforehand mined for a semi-precious gem named olivine.
This space gives breathtaking views and loads of marine life. It’s additionally an important place to go snorkelling, diving, or enjoyable on one of many many seashores.
- Location: Southeastern coast of the nation.
- Greatest time to go to: Spring and Autumn (for optimum diving and fewer vacationers).
- Actions on supply: Scuba diving, exploring coral reefs, and enjoyable on the seashore.
- Lodging: Lahami Bay Seaside Resort, Wadi Lahami Azur Resort, and tenting in Bedouin-style lodging.
- Map Location and Instructions
18. Marsa Alam
Marsa Alam is one other attractive resort city on the Pink Sea. It’s famend for its pristine seashores and quite a few coral reefs. Abu Dabab Bay is among the hottest places for guests to Marsa Alam.
It’s a U-shaped pure bay with crystal clear water and loads of wildlife, together with turtles, dugongs, and dolphins.
The Wadi el-Gemal Nationwide Park is simply south of the city. It’s a massive park with a assorted panorama, together with islands, deserts, seagrass beds, and coral reefs. You may spend many days exploring this nationwide park and marvelling at its spectacular magnificence.
- Location: Southeastern coast of the nation.
- Greatest time to go to: Spring and Autumn (for nice climate and marine actions like diving)​.
- Actions on supply: Diving with sea turtles at Abu Dabbab, snorkeling, visiting Wadi El Gemal Nationwide Park, and kitesurfing.
- Lodging: Hilton Marsa Alam Nubian Resort, The Three Corners Fayrouz Plaza Seaside Resort, and Gorgonia Seaside Resort.
- Map Location and Instructions
19. Rosetta
Rosetta (additionally referred to as Ar Rashid) is a metropolis situated on the western financial institution of the Nile River, 65km Northeast of Alexandria. Based within the ninth century, Rosetta has an fascinating historical past, unbelievable structure and vibrant tradition.
Rosetta is usually recognized for being the birthplace of the Rosetta Stone, which was used to translate historical Egyptian into Historic Greek. Due to this—and its magnificence, in fact—it’s a prime attraction on this nation.Â
Rosetta is a phenomenal metropolis with wonderful Islamic structure and lots of pretty public areas. You’ll take pleasure in wandering the winding streets and admiring the traditional mansions of Rosetta.
Many three or four-story houses lined the streets with stunning rustic brickwork and detailed mouldings.
- Location: Northern a part of the nation.
- Greatest time to go to: Spring and Autumn (for gentle climate, very best for exploring historic websites).
- Actions on supply: Visiting the Rosetta Museum, exploring Ottoman-era buildings, and boat journeys alongside the Nile.
- Lodging: Cleopatra Lodge Rosetta, native guesthouses, and Nile-view lodges.
- Map Location and Instructions
20. Al Badari
Al Badari, often known as El Badari, is situated on the East financial institution of the Nile River in Higher Egypt. It’s world-famous as a result of the British found historical cemeteries there within the Twenties.
The preferred cemeteries are Mostageddan and Dier, which comprise unbelievable historical Egyptian sculptures and structure.
In addition they comprise some very previous gravesites, with archaeologists discovering graves between 5500 BC and 4000 BC.
- Location: Southern a part of the nation.
- Greatest time to go to: Winter (for cooler temperatures, making it comfy to discover the archaeological websites).
- Actions on supply: Exploring archaeological websites, visiting tombs, and studying about historical Egyptian historical past.
- Lodging: Tenting close to archaeological websites, native guesthouses, and price range lodges in close by cities.
- Map Location and Instructions
It’s at all times a good suggestion to verify up-to-date authorities journey security recommendation earlier than you journey.