Egypt

Home to Ancient Wonders, Vibrant Culture, and Riveting History, Egypt Now Awaits Your Arrival!

From the great pyramids of Giza to the chaotic souks of Cairo, there is so much to see in this country.

For the History Buff

The Pyramids of Giza were constructed on the Giza Plateau in what is now part of modern Cairo and represent the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still standing. It is considered one of the greatest architectural and engineering achievements of all time. Not far away, the Sphinx—an enormous statue with the head of a human and the body of a lion—complements the astounding history of this area. Further south, Luxor is also called the "City of the Dead," where the Valley of the Kings holds a treasure of ancient Egyptian history in the burials of numerous pharaohs, including Tutankhamun and Ramses II. The tombs herein give insight into the grandiose and mystique of the burial rituals of the ancient Egyptians. Other key sites include two rock-cut temples standing proudly at Abu Simbel, dedicated to Pharaoh Ramses II. These temples represent the finest of what is to be offered by Ancient Egyptian architecture, complete with their colossal statues and intricate carvings.

For the Culture Vulture
Cairo is a pulsating and modern metropolis in which ancient ways linger on around each corner. In Khan el-Khalili, the medieval bazaar is an experience; on its stalls, one can find the usual crafts, aromatic spices, and exotic delicacies of all kinds. The old, historic quarter, commonly named Islamic Cairo, tells, through mosques, madrassas, and old houses of merchants, an interesting history.

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is the modern avatar of the ancient Library of Alexandria in Alexandria, which used to be one of the seats of learning during the Hellenistic period. In addition, there are the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, which introduce one to an underground world and give a different perspective into Egypt's multifarious cultural history. For a more peaceful getaway, Aswan, while lying on the Nile, boasts brilliant natural beauty combined with its cultural insights, including the Philae Temple dedicated to the goddess Isis. A felucca ride on the Nile presents the visitor with a whole different feeling of serene landscape views.

For the Adventure Seeker
The Red Sea is a haven for adventurers with its teeming coral reefs and plenty of marine life. From diving and swimming with dolphins to just lazing on a pristine beach, the Red Sea has something for everyone. To see them, one will need some rough adventure through 4×4 safaris over towering sand dunes and more ancient oases of the Western Desert. You enjoy the wild beauty of inner Egypt by camping out under its starry skies. Of course, an unforgettable river voyage in the Nile is more leisurely, a comfortable and picturesque way to look at ancient temples and tombs along its banks.

Planning Your Egyptian Adventure
Check the visa requirements of your country in advance before commencing the Egyptian journey. In transportation, Egypt has well-developed ways of transportation via flights, trains, and buses interconnecting major cities with ease to get to every popular destination. Accommodation in Egypt may range from budget hostels to super-luxury hotels that accommodate all classes of tourists.

The best time to visit Egypt is during the spring and fall months, between March and May and from September to November, when the weather is mild and pleasant.

Tips for Your Egyptian Adventure
During a visit to Egypt, dress modestly, especially when visiting places of worship. Haggling is the rule in markets; therefore, do not feel shy to bargain over prices. While Egypt is generally a safe country, be very aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions. The currency used in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP), so have some on hand for purchases. Egypt is the country that offers this amazing blend of ancient history with pulsating culture and breathtaking sceneries. You must undertake a tour to see this country in ways you will never forget.