The Pyramids of Giza, which stand tall in the desert are the first thing that springs to mind when people think of Egypt. Without a doubt, they are one of the most amazing things from the past and they deserve all the acclaim they get. The pyramids don’t really characterize Egypt, though. You may see a lot more in this country than just those well-known landmarks. Many travelers miss the temples, blue seas, golden deserts, lively towns and cultural treasures.
If you’re going to Egypt on vacation, this article will provide you with all the ideas you need for places to visit outside the pyramids. You will be surprised by how different Egypt is. It has everything from the Nile Valley to the Mediterranean coast, from hidden oases to coral reefs in the Red Sea.
Luxor
Some people call Luxor the best open-air museum in the world. It is the heart of ancient Egypt. Luxor is full of archaeological wonders that let people see what life was like during the time of the pharaohs. It is on the Nile.
The Karnak Temple is a massive building on the east bank of the Nile. It has gigantic columns, statues and hieroglyphics. The Luxor Temple is not far away and it looks great at night when it is lit up. The Valley of the Kings, which is located on the west bank, is where the graves of ancient kings and queens may be found.Tutankhamun’s tomb is one of these sites.
Taking a hot-air balloon ride at dawn is one of the most amazing things you can do in Luxor. You’ll be able to see the Nile and monuments illuminated up in gold light from all sides. The crowded souks stocked of spices, linens and handmade items make the Luxor experience feel even more authentic.
Aswan
Luxor is enormous and dramatic, while Aswan has a more quiet and calm charm. This city is on Egypt’s southern border. People go there to see the lovely vistas of the Nile, learn about Nubian culture and see intriguing temples.
The Philae Temple, which is dedicated to the goddess Isis and can only be reached by boat, is the nicest aspect of this area. The calm waters around the temple make the trek there equally as memorable as the temple itself.
Aswan is also home to lively Nubian neighborhoods with friendly people and colorful dwellings. One of the best ways to learn about Nubian culture is to spend an evening with Nubian families, eating traditional food and listening to music.
A lot of visitors who go to Aswan also go to Abu Simbel, which is one of the most impressive ancient Egyptian sites. The giant figures of Ramses II carved into the side of the mountain are spectacular and make the trip worth it.
Alexandria
Alexander the Great established Alexandria, which is Egypt’s method to get to the Mediterranean. This city is more like a big city in Europe than Cairo or Luxor. It has boardwalks along the beach, wonderful seafood and a laid-back atmosphere.
You have to see the Bibliotheca Alexandrina if you like history and culture. It’s a new library that pays tribute to the well-known old one. The Qaitbay Citadel, which was built on the site of the famous Lighthouse of Alexandria, boasts beautiful views of the sea. Walking around the Corniche is the ideal way to appreciate the salty sea breeze and the energy of the city.
There is more to Alexandria than just its history. It is a vibrant city with art galleries, marketplaces, and cafes. Alexandria is the best place for anyone who wants to do both beach activities and cultural research.
Siwa Oasis
Siwa Oasis is one of Egypt’s most gorgeous hidden treasures, yet it’s not near any of the major towns. There are many old ruins and unique customs in Siwa, which is a wonderful place. It is in the heart of the enormous Sahara Desert.
People like to cool off in the Cleopatra Spring, a natural pool where, according to mythology, Cleopatra used to bathe. The Shali Fortress, a historic fort composed of mud bricks, gives wonderful views of the oasis. The turquoise-colored salt lakes of Siwa, which are close by, make some of the most magnificent views in Egypt.
The culture of Siwa is another thing that makes it so special. For hundreds of years, the Berber people have maintained their customs alive. People who visit the desert can learn about living there by experiencing the food, crafts and festivals.
Dahab
If you want to relax by azure waters in Egypt, Dahab is the spot for you. Dahab used to be a sleepy fishing village, but now it’s a popular spot for divers, tourists and individuals who want to take it easy.
The Blue Hole is the most well-known landmark in town. People from all over the world come to dive here since it is so famous. The Red Sea is a gorgeous place to snorkel and swim and both are great ways to stay above water.
Dahab is not like other touristy areas like Sharm El-Sheikh since it is more laid-back. You can stay in charming beach huts or guesthouses, eat tasty seafood and sleep under the stars with Bedouin hosts. Dahab is a terrific spot for all kinds of travelers because there are so many things to do there, such as kite surfing, yoga retreats and camel rides along the beach.
White Desert
It simply takes a few hours to go to the White Desert National Park from Cairo. It boasts one of the strangest views in the world. The white rock formations that have been shaped by wind and time make the place look almost like the moon. Some appear like big mushrooms, animals or abstract sculptures, which makes the desert look like an art gallery.
Camping here is an adventure that you’ll always remember. Under the desert sky full of stars, travelers can find solitude, tranquility and a connection to nature. After the trip to the White Desert, a lot of visitors go to the Black Desert and Crystal Mountain. The volcanic hills and beautiful quartz make the view even better.
If you want to do more than just see temples and beaches, you have to go to the White Desert.
Marsa Alam
If you want to see Egypt’s beautiful beaches and luxury hotels, Marsa Alam is the best place to go. This coastal town on the Red Sea is known for its coral reefs, marine life and eco-tourism activities.
Diving and snorkeling in Marsa Alam lets you witness the amazing life that lives underwater. There are dolphins, turtles, dugongs and fish of all colors. Wadi El-Gemal National Park is a great place for nature lovers because it has both desert and coastal beauty. You may hike, view birds and go on camel safaris there.
Marsa Alam is a busy beach resort, but it still seems special. This place is great for honeymooners and rich people because it is secluded and the service is excellent.
Fayoum
Fayoum is an excellent place to get away from it all. It’s about an hour and a half from Cairo. It is Egypt’s lush oasis, with lakes, waterfalls and animals.
The waterfalls in the desert that flow into pools are a highlight of Wadi El Rayan. People also prefer to go sandboarding in the area, which makes it a pleasant destination for anyone who likes to have fun. Tunis Village is noted for its ceramic studios, where people can learn traditional crafts from local artisans.
The Valley of the Whales, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, lies nearby. There are bones of prehistoric whales that have been kept in the desert. For folks who like nature and history, it’s a fun site to visit.
Helpful tips when traveling to Egypt
- From October to April is the greatest time to go because the weather is cooler and perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- When you’re in a religious place or in the country, dress modestly. A scarf or light shawl is fine for women.
- How to Get Around: There are trains that go between big cities along the Nile. You can fly within the country for longer distances. A cruise on the Nile is a lovely way to go from Luxor to Aswan.
- Food from the area: Don’t miss out on koshari, grilled kebabs, falafel and fresh seafood that you may find near the coast.
- Language: Arabic is the official language, but many tourists and hotel workers are also fluent with English.
People often think of the pyramids when they think of Egypt, but the country is so much more than that. There are old temples, desert wonders, beach escapes and hidden oases that tell the stories of a land that still fascinates travelers. If you go beyond the pyramids, you can explore the true Egypt.
Your journey to Egypt will provide you experiences that go much beyond its most famous site. You could be amazed at Abu Simbel, diving in the Red Sea, exploring the salt lakes of Siwa or just meandering around Alexandria.
Get your bags ready and get ready to see Egypt in a whole new way.