new reasons to visit egypt now

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New reasons to visit Egypt now

Just discovered mummies and the upcoming opening of a blockbuster museum make the ancient land worth rediscovering.

The largest archaeological museum in the world, the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), is due to open later this year (or early in 2023) outside Cairo . This dazzling showplace near the pyramids of Giza cost more than a billion dollars to build. It will hold a large chunk of Egypt ’s ancient artifacts, including the treasures of King Tutankhamun’s tomb.

The museum isn’t the only attraction drawing tourists back to the North African country. New openings include the Mummies Hall in the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization in Cairo, and two tombs in nearby Saqqara, including the newly restored Tomb of Djoser, with its labyrinth of hieroglyphic-covered corridors. The promise of fresh discovery means trip bookings for Egypt are up more than 100 percent from some countries.

( Egypt is one of our 25 best places to visit in 2023. See the full list here .)

“So many sites are getting revamped, conserved, and preserved,” says Egyptologist and National Geographic Explorer Nora Shawki . “Even going to the pyramids is smoother, with electric busses getting you there and more dining and services.”

Though it suffered during the COVID-19 pandemic, Egypt has a robust tourism infrastructure, making trips here easier than you might expect. Here’s what to know before you go.

Is Egypt safe?

The biggest danger in Egypt may be getting hassled for business, from the ad hoc tour guides just outside temples and tombs to hawkers offering “free” souvenirs and camel rides beside the pyramids at Giza. Otherwise, street crime is almost unheard of. “The riskiest thing you’ll do in Egypt is crossing our busy streets,” says Shawki.

While terrorist activities in the Sinai Peninsula and Western Desert mean the U.S. Department of State currently classifies Egypt under a Level 3, or “reconsider travel” advisory these areas aren’t close to typical tourist attractions including in Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor, and Aswan .

How can I see the top sights?

Egypt is large—about twice the size of France—and you’ll need a combination of air, river, or overland travel to see Cairo, Luxor, and the Nile River-side temples.

You can rent a car, but it’s not recommended. Although millions of dollars have been invested in road improvements, signage is inconsistent and road congestion common. Some areas, like the Nile Valley, require security convoys, and military checkpoints are the norm. Guided tours and taxis are the best ways to get around; Uber also operates in Cairo and Alexandria.

A 10-day trip focused on the highlights of ancient Egypt could include time in Cairo (the pyramids, museums), Luxor (Valley of the Kings, Temple of Karnak), and a cruise along the Nile.

Additional spots worth adding to your itinerary include resort areas like Sharm El-Sheik on the Red Sea for diving and snorkeling or oasis towns such as artsy, archaeology-rich Tunis Village (about two hours by car from Cairo).

What can I see in Cairo besides pyramids?

Most travelers start in Cairo, where a clutch of museums gives a crash course in Egyptian history. In a sprawling contemporary building designed to resemble an ancient sailing ship, the Grand Egyptian Museum took 20 years and more than a billion dollars to construct. Within its 870,000 square feet are more than 100,000 artifacts including 5,000 objects from the tomb of “boy king” Tutankhamun.

( See why the Grand Egyptian Museum is fit for a pharoah .)

Open since 1902, the Egyptian Museum has 100 galleries and more than 170,000 artifacts, including animal figurines, funerary papyri, and stele decked in colorful hieroglyphs. The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization , which debuted in 2017, covers the entire history of Egypt from pre-historic times until today. It’s the new resting place of the ancient Egyptian royal mummies, relocated with great pomp , last year.

“The Ministry of Antiquities and Tourism has made a phenomenal effort to open new archaeological sites and make older places accessible, such as the Serapeum at Saqqara, and the underground galleries beneath the Step Pyramid of Djoser,” says Colleen Darnell, an American Egyptologist and coauthor of the upcoming Egypt’s Golden Couple: When   Akhenaten   and Nefertiti Were Gods on Earth .  

Just outside of Cairo, Saqqara is the country’s largest archaeological site and home of its oldest pyramid. It also offers new discoveries, including 59 sealed sarcophagi and the ornate tomb of Wahtye, a high priest who died in the 5th century B.C .

What about all those famous tombs and temples?

Luxor, a 90 minute direct flight from Cairo, holds the grand Temples of Karnak and Luxor as well as the tomb-filled Valley of the Queens and Valley of the Kings, including the dazzling burial space of King Tut.  

Luxor’s 1.7-mile, statue-decorated Avenue of the Sphinxes recently reopened, showing off decades of excavations and renovations. You’ll need a day or two to explore it all. Luxor is also the launch point for cruises on the Nile.

( Learn how epic feats of engineering saved Egypt’s Abu Simbel temples .)

It’s worth the quick flight or three-hour drive from Aswan (the terminus of most Nile cruises) to see the 13th-century B.C. rock-cut temple at Abu Simbel on Lake Nasser. Because the temple looks particularly dazzling during the evening light and sound show, Kerry Ann Derwin, a Middle East travel specialist with Audley Travel , often books her clients into a local guesthouse such as the Eskelah Nubian Ecolodge .“It gives a more intimate look at the temple,” she says.  

Should I take a Nile cruise?

Boats have cruised along the Nile River since pharaonic times, and a two- to five-day cruise takes in ancient ruins and modern village life. You can book trips on river barges, steamboats, private yachts, or dahabiyas , elegant two-masted sailing ships with four to 10 cabins each. Generally boats travel between Luxor and Aswan.

“Going down the Nile gives you a glimpse into the past, and it’s also a quick way to see many of the riverside temples,” says Shawki. You’ll glide past farms where workers still plow fields with oxen and spot birds like cranes and egrets.

When should I go?

Most of Egypt has a desert climate, meaning hot days and cooler nights. The most comfortable times to visit are between March and June or in early fall (late September through early October). “But if you want the sites to yourself, July and August are great,” says Jasmine Padda, an Egyptian specialist with Kensington Tours .

What should I wear?

In Egyptian cities, you’ll see women dressed in everything from burqas to jeans and tank tops. Tourists can get away with modest casual clothing in most places, but both men and women must cover their knees, shoulders, and chests while visiting mosques or other religious sites. It’s a good idea to bring a lightweight scarf.

It’s also nearly always sunny and often hot, so pack a hat and high-SPF sunblock.

Where can I stay?

In Cairo, there are a range of four- and five-star hotels catering to international visitors with well-oiled security teams and concierges who can offer advice and book tours. Properties (many from chains such as Hilton and St. Regis) in the Zamalek and Garden City neighborhoods are well-located for both sightseeing and safety. For pyramid views and nostalgia, the Mena House has been open since the 19th century; it’s now renovated and expanded.  

Two luxe historic properties also lure travelers in Luxor and Aswan: the circa-1905 Winter Palace Luxor and the circa-1899 Old Cataract Aswan . Both offer Egyptian-style decor and atmosphere as well as modern comforts. Smaller guesthouses are also an option in these smaller cities, particularly in the Nubian villages around Aswan.

Related Topics

• ARCHAEOLOGY
• ANCIENT HISTORY
• ANCIENT EGYPT

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22 Reasons Why You Definitely Should Visit Egypt In 2022

Updated: Mar 14, 2022

The past couple of years have been... a lot, to say the least. But there's no use crying over covid-spilled milk, and things are definitely taking a turn for the better. Not only is Egypt completely open again, but we've been making headlines as one of THE countries to visit in 2022. Headlines where? Oh here are just a few:

Recently TripAdvisor not only named Cairo as their #2 Trending Destination in the World for 2022, but Hurghada in their Top 10 Most Popular Destinations in the World for 2022 ! And that's besides Egypt having secured 13 spots, yes 13, in Scuba Travel’s World’s Top 100 Dive Sites in 2022 . Oh and let's not forget Egypt being on the list for Lonely Planet's Top 10 Countries in 2022 .

So as you can see, it's been pretty much agreed across the board that Egypt is the place to see in 2022, for myriad reasons. And let us locals add 22 of our own personal reasons to the list!

1. It’s very affordable for tourists.

If you're coming from abroad, you might notice right away that certain things are WAY cheaper in Egypt than back home. For example, an Uber from the airport to Downtown Cairo will cost you around $10 - for an hour long ride! And a stay in a five star hotel in Egypt is going to run you *considerably* less than what a stay in a five star hotel in Europe for example will run you. Hot air balloon in Luxor? That'll set you back less than $50. You get the idea!

Read: Cairo on a Budget: 10 Cheap Ways to Enjoy the City

Read: Cairo Sightseeing For Free: 10 Awesome Sites That Don't Cost Anything To Visit

2. Year-round sunny beaches.

Home to both the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea, Egypt has beaches that can easily compete with some of the best in the world. Even in winter months, it’s never too cold to sit on the Red Sea’s white sand beaches and soak up the sun.

Read: 9 World-Class Beaches in Egypt

Read: 7 Tropical Islands You Won't Believe Are In Egypt

3. Our world-famous museums.

The Grand Egyptian Museum will be hopefully be opening its doors in late 2022; when opened, it'll be the biggest archaeological museum in the world. It’ll also be home to the full Tutankhamun collection, with pieces on public display for the first time ever.

But don't let the delay get you down -- you can check out our other world-famous museums, like Cairo Museum in Midan Tahrir -- the museum’s collections exceed over 120,000 pieces, from the pre-historic era to the Roman-Greco period. Or the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, with its Royal Mummy Gallery. There's also Karnak Temple in Luxor , which is considered the biggest open-air museum in the world.

Read: 9 Museums In Cairo You Need To Visit At Least Once

Read: 7 Important Egyptian Museums To Truly Understand Egypt's History

4. Natural treatments and climatic physiotherapy.

The secret is out: Egypt is one of the best destinations in the world when it comes to therapeutic tourism -- those seeking natural treatment for various ailments, or seeking physical and spiritual cleansing.

Egypt is home to more than 1,300 natural springs, and their clay and minerals help treat bone, skin and digestive diseases. The 365 days of sunshine and dry climate in places like Aswan help respiratory and rheumatoid diseases. The sea and treatments like ‘sand baths’ are proven to help with skin diseases like psoriasis.

Read: Natural Therapy in Egypt - 7 Types of Natural Healing and Climatic Therapy You Can't Find Elsewhere

5. The last standing Ancient Wonder of the World.

The Great Pyramid of Giza (known as either Khufu or Cheops) is literally the last existing Ancient Wonder of the World. At around 4500 years old, it’s kind of crazy that you can get so up and close to it, but indeed you can. Its surrounding pyramids and Sphinx are no less impressive, and it’s truly worth being on every single human’s bucket list.

Read: Visiting the Pyramids of Giza - A Local's Guide to Everything You Need to Know

6. A Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan.

When was the last time you went on a cruise? Or better yet, when was the last time you went on a cruise that had regular stops to dock and see thousands-of-years-old monuments, tombs and artifacts? These five star, luxury cruises range from 3 to 5 nights, and are both affordable and an awesome option for all ages and families with young kids. You’ll sail down the river in Ancient Upper Egypt and see sights like the Luxor Temple (the world’s largest outdoor museum), Karnak Temple and Philae Temple (the last place where the Ancient Egyptian religion was practiced).

7. Camping in the Sahara Desert.

Egypt’s Western desert is a pristine, stark wilderness where you can camp, do Jeep safaris, sandboard, immerse yourself in natural hot springs and see the Milky Way and an infinite amount of stars at night. White chalk formations like in the White Desert area of the Egyptian Sahara are some of the coolest natural wonders (and very “gram-able”).

Read: Camping in Egypt: 7 Beautiful and Remote Places To Camp

8. Disconnecting from the world at an Egyptian ecolodge.

If peace of mind is your end goal , then Egypt’s ecolodges are what you should be looking into for 2022. Whether you choose an ecolodge at a desert oasis, or next to the Red Sea, or at the very edge of the Great Sand Sea, you’re guaranteed to disconnect from your super plugged-in world; many of these places don’t even have electricity. Perfect for those who want to disconnect, eat fresh, get back in tune with nature and leave as small a carbon footprint as possible.

9. Scuba diving in some of the world’s very best dive spots.

Egypt's Red Sea scored a total of 13 spots in Scuba Travel’s World’s Top 100 Dive Sites in 2022 - what more can we say?

Notable Egyptian dive sites mentioned: Shark Reef, Daedalus Reef, Little Brother, Thistlegorm and Blue Hole.

Read: 7 Best Diving Destinations in Egypt’s Red Sea for Divers of All Levels

10. Religious significance for the three Abrahamic religions -- Islam, Christianity and Judaism.

While the Ancient Egyptian religion is what usually takes center stage when people think of Egypt, the country is of extreme significance to the Abrahamic religions as well. In Egypt you can climb to the summit of Mount Sinai, where it’s believed that Moses encountered the Burning Bush and received the 10 Commandments. You can also follow the journey of the Holy Family (Jesus, the Virgin Mary and Joseph) from the Sinai peninsula into mainland Egypt and back again.

If you’re interested in more modern historical religious sites, Islamic and Coptic Cairo are home to centuries-old mosques, churches, and the Ben Ezra synagogue.

Read: 9 Egyptian Churches, Cathedrals and Monasteries You Need to Visit at Least Once

Read: 10 Most Beautiful Mosques in Egypt

11. Ancient whale fossils in the desert, anyone?

Wadi el Hitan (Whale Valley) in Fayoum, Egypt, is home to something very strange and very cool -- whale fossils, but not your average whale; these whales had hind legs.

According to UNESCO (Wadi el Hitan is an official UNESCO Heritage Site): “These fossils represent one of the major stories of evolution: the emergence of the whale as an ocean-going mammal from a previous life as a land-based animal. This is the most important site in the world for the demonstration of this stage of evolution.”

Read: 7 Egyptian UNESCO World Heritage Sites and Which Ones You MUST See

12. Medical and dental tourism.

If you need tests done, dental work or a medical consultation and don’t feel like going through thousands of dollars and weeks of waiting for an appointment in your home country, then Egypt is a great alternative. The medical sector in Egypt has excellent doctors, and the vast majority speak English so you don’t have to worry about the language barrier.

You can get an appointment with a dentist or specialized doctor of your choice in just a matter of days, and the consultation will cost you between 300-600 EGP ($19-$38), and the follow-up is free. Blood tests and other scanning are similarly affordable.

13. Kitesurfing.

Kitesurfing is the world’s fastest-growing water sport, and not many know that Egypt is a treasure trove for both beginner and advanced kitesurfers alike. According to Kitesurfing Holidays, Egypt has 3 different placings in the 10 best spots in the world to learn to kitesurf (Soma Bay, Hamata and El Gouna). Our local tip is to add to those places Ras Sedr and Dahab, also on the Red Sea.

Read: 7 Extreme Adventure Experiences in Egypt for Adrenaline Junkies

14. 10,000 year old rock art.

If you thought the pharaohs’ tombs were about as Ancient as Egypt’s history gets, think again. In the caves of the Gilf Kebir plateau in the remote Southwest Egyptian Sahara desert, Neolithic cliff paintings (pictographs) and rock carvings (petroglyphs) were found, depicting the daily life of those who dwelled there around 10,000 years ago. The most famous of those caves are the Cave of the Swimmers and the Cave of the Beasts.

15. That boat life.

We already talked about 5 star Nile cruises, but what about the rest of what Egypt has to offer when it comes to boating? Whether it’s something easy and quick, like an hour’s sail in of the famous Nile feluccas (little sailboats popular in Cairo, Luxor and Aswan), or a fishing boat in the Red Sea, or a glass-bottom boat (awesome family alternative to snorkeling), or even powerboats that you can rent out for reasonable prices in Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh, the options of enjoying Egypt from the water are endless.

Read: 25 Fun Things To Do In Hurghada and El Gouna

16. The crazy beauty of the remaining temples, monuments, tombs and artifacts of the Ancient Egyptian civilization.

This, like the Pyramids , is really kind of a no-brainer. The fact that you can literally walk into temples and tombs thousands of years old, and see the original art and hieroglyphics is really kind of mind-boggling. Sites like the Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, Dendera, Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, Abu Simbel, Temple of Hatshepsut, Philae Temple and many others are always *so* much more interesting than anything you might have ever read about them.

Read: Ancient Egypt Bucket List: 20 Must-See Ancient Egyptian Sites

17. The ability to have a super diverse vacation, all in relatively easy reach of each other, in the same country.

Whether you’re looking for a beach vacation, a journey into ancient history, a diving adventure, a mental, physical and emotional retreat, a city jaunt or a commune with nature, Egypt delivers all, in just a few short days. It’s not all sand and pyramids --although that would be pretty cool too-- which is what a lot of visitors fail to realize, and thus cheat themselves out of some of the best beaches in the world or some amazing retreats.

18. The views, oh, the views.

We're just going to leave this here.

Read: 12 Places To Go For The Most Beautiful Views in Egypt

19. Egyptian food <3

Egyptian cuisine might not be super widespread internationally, but for us Egyptians, it's a national treasure. Our famous fuul, taameya (Egyptian falafel) and koshary are all cheap, nutritious and even vegan-friendly. And if you're a meat lover, our grills just can't be beat.

Read: 12 Local Egyptian Foods You Need To Try

20. Egypt is a great winter destination.

It’s a million degrees below zero, and you don’t think you’ll ever see a not-gray sky again. This is where Egypt comes in -- even in the dead of winter, the sun is always shining and the skies are always blue.

Read: 7 Reasons Why Winter Is Actually One Of The Best Times To Go To Egypt

21. Egypt's historical hotels.

With certain hotels over 150 years old (and still serving up 5 star luxury), in Egypt you don't just SEE history, you can also choose to sleep in it. These hotels range from khedival palaces in Cairo to nods to Alexandria's seaside belle epoque to Agatha's Nile-side inspiration down in Aswan - in Egypt you don't need to stay at another cookie-cutter hotel.

Read: 11 Historical Hotels in Egypt You Can Still Stay At Today

22. Moez Street and Khan el Khalili.

A lot gets said about Ancient Egypt, but what about Medieval Egypt? Take a walk down Moez Street and its adjacent bazaar Khan el Khalili in the evening and you'll feel like you're in A Thousands and One Nights - with a large dash of modern Egypt, that is. This fascinating area dates back to 14th century AD and is one of our very favorite places in all of Cairo. Also the best place to souvenir shop!

Read: El Moez Street in Old Cairo - A Detailed Local's Guide

Read: Khan el Khalili - An Egyptian Local's Guide

So there you have it, 22 reasons why Egypt should most definitely be on your list of places to visit in 2022. And don't forget to check out our locally-created itineraries -- they're full of details and insider information that you won't find elsewhere on the internet; it's like having your own local friend in Egypt who'll steer you in the right direction.

Happy travels!

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Home > Egypt Blog > Hidden 10 Reasons to Visit Egypt in 2024/2025 – Egypt Planners

Hidden 10 Reasons to Visit Egypt in 2024/2025 – Egypt Planners

Are you considering your next travel destination? Looking for Reasons to Visit Egypt? Step into a world where ancient legends and modern marvels collide, where the sands of time whisper tales of pharaohs and pyramids. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply someone looking to relax and enjoy beautiful landscapes, rich history, awe-inspiring landmarks, and warm hospitality, Egypt has long been a sought-after tourist destination.

Egypt has been a magnetic force for thousands of years, drawing explorers, scholars, and curious souls from around the globe. Its ancient civilization, which spanned over 4,000 years, left an indelible mark on human history. From the majestic pyramids of Giza to the enigmatic Sphinx , from the Valley of the Kings to the stunning temples of Luxor and Karnak, Egypt’s archaeological treasures have stood the test of time.

Why 2024 is a Great Year to Visit Egypt: 10 Reasons to Visit Egypt

Reason #1: historical and cultural wonders – unlocking egypt’s rich tapestry.

Prepare to step back in time as we unveil the first reason Egypt is an absolute must-visit destination: its historical and cultural wonders. This land of ancient pharaohs and legendary civilizations holds within its borders a treasure trove of archaeological marvels that will leave you awe-inspired. Let’s virtual tour some of Egypt’s most iconic sites and explore their significance in Egyptian history and culture.

• Pyramids of Giza: First on our list are the world-famous Pyramids, towering like majestic sentinels on the outskirts of Cairo. Beholding these awe-inspiring structures is like gazing upon the footprints of eternity. These pyramids were Built as grand tombs for pharaohs; these pyramids have withstood the test of time, holding secrets and stories that continue to captivate our imagination. The Great Pyramid of Khufu , the largest of the three, is an enduring symbol of ancient engineering brilliance. Prepare to be spellbound as you witness the monumental scale and precision craftsmanship that went into their construction.
• Valley of the Kings: Venture to the west bank of the Nile in Luxor, and you’ll discover the legendary Valley of the Kings. This sacred cemetery served as the final resting place for pharaohs of the New Kingdom. You’ll glimpse ancient Egyptians’ afterlife beliefs and rituals as you explore the elaborate tombs carved deep into the cliffs, adorned with detailed hieroglyphics and vibrant wall paintings. The tomb of Tutankhamun , with its glittering treasures, is a highlight not to be missed.
• Luxor Temple : Step into the open-air museum of Luxor Temple, a testament to the grandeur of ancient Egyptian architecture. Dedicated to the rejuvenation of kingship and linked to the worship of Amun, this temple complex stands as a testament to the splendor and religious fervor of a bygone era. As you wander through the colossal statues, towering columns, and majestic obelisks, you’ll feel the echoes of history whispering through the air.

So, fellow explorers, pack your curiosity and embark on a quest through time and culture in Egypt. The wonders of the past await your arrival, ready to leave an indelible mark on your soul. Get prepared to walk in the footsteps of pharaohs and experience the magic of Egypt’s historical and cultural wonders firsthand. Stay tuned for more reasons why Egypt should be at the top of your travel bucket list!

Reason #2: Natural Beauty – Unveiling Egypt’s Breathtaking Landscapes

Beyond the ancient wonders and historical marvels, Egypt reveals another facet of its allure – its natural beauty. From vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life to serene oases and the life-giving River Nile, the country boasts diverse landscapes that will awe nature enthusiasts. Join us as we dive into why Egypt is a haven for adventurers seeking to immerse themselves in the splendor of the great outdoors.

• Red Sea Coral Reefs: Prepare to be enchanted by the kaleidoscope of colors beneath the surface of the Red Sea. Egypt’s Red Sea coast is a haven for divers and snorkelers, offering an underwater paradise unrivaled in its beauty. The vibrant coral reefs are teeming with incredible marine life, from graceful manta rays and playful dolphins to abundant tropical fish. Gliding through the crystal-clear waters, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a mesmerizing realm from a National Geographic documentary.
• Siwa Oasis : Nestled amidst the vast Egyptian desert, the Siwa Oasis is a tranquil haven of palm groves, hot springs, and ancient ruins. This oasis is a respite from the scorching desert heat and a glimpse into the traditional way of life in the Western Desert. Immerse yourself in the soothing serenity of its natural springs, stroll through the lush date palm plantations, and explore the ruins of the ancient city of Shali . Siwa Oasis offers a rare opportunity to connect with nature and experience the magic of an oasis oasis oasis firsthand.
• The River Nile: Flowing through the heart of Egypt, the mighty River Nile holds significance far beyond its role as a life-giving water source. Embarking on a Nile cruise is like embarking on a journey through time, passing by ancient temples , lush green landscapes, and bustling riverfront towns. As you sail along this legendary river, you’ll witness Egypt’s timeless beauty unfold. The Nile is not just a river; it’s a lifeline that has shaped the civilization and culture of Egypt for millennia.

So, nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those yearning to connect with the Earth’s natural wonders, pack your bags and get ready to be enthralled by Egypt’s awe-inspiring landscapes. From the depths of the Red Sea to the lush oases and the meandering River Nile, the natural beauty of Egypt will leave an indelible mark on your heart and soul. Stay tuned for the following reasons why Egypt should be your ultimate travel destination!

Reason #3: Unique Experiences – Discovering Egypt’s One-of-a-kind Adventures

Egypt is not just about the ancient pyramids and historical landmarks; the country offers many unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else. From riding a camel through the desert to indulging in traditional Egyptian cuisine, these activities will add a touch of authenticity to your Egyptian adventure. Let’s explore some of the one-of-a-kind experiences that Egypt has to offer.

• Riding a Camel Through the Desert: Saddle up and embark on a quintessential Egyptian experience – riding a camel through the desert. The gentle sway of the camel’s gait and the vast dunes stretching as far as the eye can see create a sense of timelessness, transporting you to a bygone era. As you explore the desert landscape, you’ll glimpse the traditional Bedouin way of life and the beauty of Egypt’s natural surroundings.
• Experiencing a Traditional Egyptian Dinner: Every visit to Egypt is complete with savoring the country’s delicious cuisine. But why not take it further and experience a traditional Egyptian dinner? From the fragrant aroma of fresh herbs and spices to the colorful array of meze dishes, every aspect of the meal offers a sensory experience that will leave your taste buds tingling. As you enjoy your meal, you’ll also have the chance to witness traditional Egyptian music and dance performances, adding to the ambiance of the evening.
• Exploring the Old Islamic Cairo : For a glimpse into Cairo’s vibrant culture and history, head to the Old Islamic Cairo. This neighborhood is home to some of the most impressive Islamic architecture in the world, with stunning mosques, palaces, and bazaars lining the narrow streets. As you explore the area, you’ll also have the opportunity to sample traditional Egyptian sweets, shop for souvenirs, and immerse yourself in the city’s bustling energy.
• Exploring Nubian Villages in Aswan: Venture to the southern reaches of Egypt, and you’ll discover the beautiful Nubian villages of Aswan. These vibrant communities, nestled on the banks of the Nile, offer a glimpse into the rich Nubian culture and heritage. Engage in conversations with friendly locals, admire the vibrant colors of their houses adorned with intricate patterns, and witness the joyous music and dance celebrations. Exploring the Nubian villages is an immersive experience that unveils the soul of a community deeply connected to its roots.

Reason #4: Hospitality and Cuisine – Embracing the Warmth of Egypt

Regarding hospitality and cuisine, Egypt stands out as a shining star. The warmth and friendliness of its people, coupled with a culinary tradition that spans centuries, make for an unforgettable experience. Get ready to indulge your taste buds and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as we explore the fourth reason why Egypt should be at the top of your travel list.

• Egyptian Hospitality: You’ll be enveloped in genuine warmth and hospitality from stepping foot in Egypt. Egyptians are renowned for their friendliness and eagerness to make visitors feel at home. Whether exploring the bustling markets of Cairo or venturing into the charming villages along the Nile, you’ll be greeted with smiles and open arms. The locals are always ready to lend a helping hand, share a cup of tea, and engage in lively conversations that make you feel like a part of the community.
• Traditional Egyptian Cuisine: Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure. Egyptian cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavors and influences from the Middle East, Mediterranean, and North Africa. Traditional meals are a feast for the senses, with a tempting array of spices, aromatic herbs, and fresh ingredients. Try Koshari, a hearty mix of rice, lentils, and pasta topped with tangy tomato sauce and crispy onions, or Molokhia, a comforting green soup made from jute leaves. And remember to indulge in the deliciously sweet and flaky Baklava for dessert.
• Exquisite Beverages: To complement your culinary journey, Egypt offers a variety of traditional beverages that will quench your thirst and delight your palate. Start your day with a cup of solid and fragrant Egyptian coffee, sipping slowly while engaging in lively conversation. Try Hibiscus tea, a vibrant red infusion with a tangy flavor for a refreshing twist. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take advantage of the traditional sugarcane juice, freshly squeezed and brimming with natural sweetness.

Reason #5: Accessibility and Safety – Unveiling Egypt’s Commitment to Welcoming All Travelers

Regarding Reasons to Visit Egypt, accessibility and safety are essential factors that can significantly impact the overall experience. Egypt shines in these aspects, making it a destination that caters to many travelers. From robust safety measures to a growing commitment to accessibility, Egypt ensures that everyone can explore its wonders with ease and peace of mind. Join us as we delve into the fifth reason why Egypt should be your next travel destination.

• Safety Measures: The Egyptian government has taken significant steps to ensure the safety and security of tourists. The country’s tourism industry has implemented strict safety protocols, with enhanced measures in popular tourist areas and sites. You’ll find increased security presence, surveillance systems, and checkpoints to provide a safe environment for visitors. These measures, combined with the warmth and vigilance of the Egyptian people, create a reassuring atmosphere that allows you to explore and enjoy your journey with peace of mind.
• Accessibility for All: Egypt is committed to making its tourism industry accessible to people with disabilities or special needs. Efforts have been made to improve accessibility in important tourist sites, transportation, accommodations, and public facilities. Many hotels and attractions offer wheelchair access, ramps, and accessible facilities to ensure that all travelers can explore and experience the wonders of Egypt. Moreover, tour operators and travel agencies are increasingly providing specialized services and itineraries to cater to the unique needs of diverse travelers.

By prioritizing safety and accessibility, Egypt has created an environment where all travelers can immerse themselves in the country’s rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes regardless of their abilities.

Egypt’s commitment to accessibility and safety allows travelers to focus on the country’s awe-inspiring sights, cultural experiences, and warm hospitality. Whether exploring ancient ruins, sailing along the Nile, or indulging in traditional cuisine, you can do so with confidence and comfort.

Join us for the next and final reason why Egypt should be on your travel radar as we wrap up our journey through the wonders of this beautiful country.

Reason #6: Events and Festivals – Celebrating the Vibrancy of Egypt

In addition to its ancient wonders and natural beauty, Egypt is a land of vibrant celebrations and cultural festivals. Throughout the year, the country comes alive with many events that showcase its rich heritage, artistic prowess, and joyful spirit. Join us as we dive into the sixth reason why Egypt is an extraordinary destination, where you can immerse yourself in the excitement of captivating events and festivals.

• Cairo International Film Festival: Lights, camera, action! The Cairo International Film Festival is a prestigious event that attracts filmmakers, actors, and cinema enthusiasts from around the globe. This festival showcases a diverse range of films, from international blockbusters to independent productions, and celebrates the art of storytelling through the silver screen. It provides a platform for filmmakers to share their visions, fosters cultural exchange, and brings the magic of cinema to the heart of Egypt.
• Abu Simbel Sun Festival: Prepare to witness an awe-inspiring spectacle dating back to ancient times. The Abu Simbel Sun Festival occurs twice yearly at the iconic Abu Simbel Temples on February 22nd and October 22nd. During these dates, the rising sun aligns perfectly to illuminate the temple’s inner sanctum, casting a beam of light on the statues of Ramses II and the gods. It is a captivating moment that pays homage to the ancient Egyptians’ astronomical knowledge and architectural prowess.
• Sharm El Sheikh International Jazz Festival: Get ready to swing to the jazz rhythm in a stunning coastal setting. The Sharm El Sheikh International Jazz Festival brings together renowned jazz musicians from Egypt and worldwide for captivating performances. Against the backdrop of palm-fringed beaches and the Red Sea, the festival immerses attendees in jazz’s soulful melodies and improvisational genius, creating an unforgettable musical experience.

These events and festivals are not only a source of entertainment but also a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of Egypt. They provide a platform for artistic expression, foster cultural exchange, and offer a glimpse into the country’s vibrant present-day identity.

Reason #7: Affordable Prices – Unlocking the Affordable Charms of Egypt

Are you dreaming of an incredible travel experience without breaking the bank? Look no further than Egypt, a destination offering abundant wonders at affordable prices. From budget-friendly accommodations to mouthwatering street food, Egypt proves you don’t have to compromise on quality to enjoy an unforgettable journey. Join us as we unveil the seventh reason Egypt should be at the top of your travel list – its affordability.

• Affordability Compared to Other Destinations: Egypt shines brightly regarding value for money. Compared to other popular tourist destinations, such as Europe or the United States, Egypt offers a significantly lower cost of travel. From flights to accommodations, transportation, and dining, you’ll find that your travel budget stretches further, allowing you to experience more of what this incredible country has to offer.
• Budget-Friendly Accommodations : Egypt presents a wide range of accommodation options that suit every budget. Whether you prefer luxury hotels or cozy guesthouses, you’ll find that prices are generally lower than other destinations. To save even more, consider staying in locally owned hotels or guesthouses, which not only offer affordable rates but also provide an authentic experience and a chance to support local communities.
• Savoring Local Delights : One of the joys of traveling in Egypt is indulging in its mouthwatering cuisine. And the best part? You can savor the flavors of Egypt without emptying your wallet. Street food stalls and local restaurants offer delicious, affordable meals showcasing the country’s culinary traditions. You’ll be spoiled for choice, from fragrant falafel sandwiches to hearty koshari and flavorful shawarma. Embrace the local eateries, and your taste buds and wallet will thank you.
• Bargaining in Souks and Markets: Exploring the vibrant markets and souks is essential to the Egyptian experience. These bustling marketplaces are filled with a kaleidoscope of colors, scents, and treasures waiting to be discovered. Remember to haggle and bargain when shopping for souvenirs or handicrafts. Negotiating prices can result in substantial savings and add fun to your shopping adventures.

One of the most compelling reasons to visit Egypt is the opportunity to embark on captivating journeys that offer a profound glimpse into the country’s rich history and cultural heritage. From the iconic pyramids of Giza to the stunning temples of Luxor and the fascinating relics housed in the Egyptian Museum, Egypt beckons travelers with its ancient wonders. Exploring Egypt’s historical sites is even more enriching by the availability of specialized experiences like Ancient Egypt Tours , where expert guides illuminate the mysteries of the past, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the captivating narratives that have shaped this remarkable land.

Reason #8: Sustainable Tourism – Embracing the Beauty of Egypt Responsibly

In a world where sustainability is paramount, Egypt stands out as a shining example of a destination that values its natural wonders and the well-being of its communities. With a commitment to sustainable tourism practices, Egypt is paving the way for responsible travel. Join us as we delve into the eighth reason Egypt should be your next destination – its dedication to sustainable tourism.

• Environmental Conservation: Egypt is taking significant steps to protect its natural habitats and reduce its ecological footprint. Efforts are underway to preserve delicate ecosystems, such as the Red Sea coral reefs and the pristine desert landscapes. Sustainable initiatives include reducing plastic waste, promoting responsible diving practices, and raising awareness about the importance of conserving Egypt’s biodiversity. By prioritizing environmental conservation, Egypt ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy its remarkable natural beauty.
• Cultural Preservation: Preserving Egypt’s rich cultural heritage is also a cornerstone of sustainable tourism. The country’s historical sites, such as the Pyramids of Giza and Luxor Temple, are carefully maintained to ensure longevity. Preservation projects aim to safeguard ancient artifacts, restore architectural marvels, and educate visitors about the significance of Egypt’s cultural legacy. By engaging in sustainable tourism practices, visitors contribute to protecting and sustaining Egypt’s cultural treasures.
• How to Participate: As a responsible traveler, you can actively participate in sustainable tourism practices during your visit to Egypt. Here are a few ways you can make a positive impact:
• Reduce Plastic Waste: Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it from filtered water stations or carry a reusable bag for shopping to minimize plastic waste.
• Support Local Communities: Choose locally owned accommodations, restaurants, and shops to support the local economy and foster community development.
• Respect Cultural Sites: Follow the guidelines and regulations when visiting historical sites, and avoid touching or damaging artifacts.
• C hoose Responsible Tour Operators: Opt for tour operators and guides who prioritize sustainability and environmental conservation in their practices.
• Conserve Natural Resources: Conserve water and energy in your accommodations by reusing towels, turning off lights, and minimizing water usage.

Reason #9: Ecotourism Opportunities – Discovering Egypt’s Natural Treasures Responsibly

Are you an adventurous soul seeking to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature while treading lightly on the Earth? Look no further than Egypt, a destination that offers exceptional ecotourism opportunities. From eco-lodges in pristine landscapes to sustainable initiatives in protected areas, Egypt beckons you to explore its natural treasures responsibly. Join us as we unveil the ninth reason Egypt should be at the top of your travel list – its commitment to ecotourism.

• Eco-lodges in Natural Paradises: Egypt boasts a selection of eco-lodges strategically located in breathtaking natural environments. These sustainable accommodations blend harmoniously with their surroundings, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while minimizing your ecological footprint. Imagine waking up to panoramic views of the desert, the lush oases, or the sparkling coastline, knowing that your stay supports local communities and conservation efforts.
• Wadi El Gemal National Park: One prime example of Egypt’s commitment to ecotourism is Wadi El Gemal National Park. Located on the Red Sea coast, this protected area is a haven of biodiversity and natural wonders. The park encompasses vast desert landscapes, coastal ecosystems, and stunning coral reefs with marine life. It provides a sanctuary for rare and endangered species, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and eco-conscious travelers.

Within Wadi El Gemal National Park, sustainable tourism initiatives have been implemented to preserve its delicate ecosystems. These initiatives focus on responsible hiking, snorkeling, and diving practices, ensuring visitors enjoy the park’s beauty while minimizing adverse environmental impacts.

• Responsible Nature Exploration: When venturing into Egypt’s natural wonders, it’s essential to embrace responsible nature exploration practices. Here are a few tips to ensure a sustainable and enjoyable experience:
• Stay on designated trails to protect fragile ecosystems and avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Respect wildlife by observing safely and refraining from feeding or touching animals.
• Practice Leave No Trace principles, carrying out any waste you generate and leaving nature undisturbed.
• Choose eco-friendly activities, such as snorkeling, diving, or birdwatching, that promote the conservation of natural habitats.
• Support local conservation efforts by visiting protected areas and engaging in educational programs.

Reason #10: The Nile River Cruise – Embark on an Epic Journey through Ancient Egypt

Imagine drifting along the timeless waters of the mighty Nile, the lifeblood of ancient Egypt, while unraveling the mysteries of this fascinating civilization. A Nile River cruise offers a unique and enchanting way to explore the wonders of Egypt. Join us as we delve into the tenth reason why Egypt should be your next travel destination – the captivating Nile River cruise.

• Benefits of a Nile River Cruise : Embarking on a Nile River cruise is like stepping back in time, immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of Egypt’s history and culture. Here are some of the benefits of this remarkable experience:
• Unparalleled Convenience: A Nile River cruise allows you to visit multiple ancient sites while unpacking only once. The boat becomes your floating hotel, taking you effortlessly from one extraordinary destination to another.
• Spectacular Scenery: As you sail along the Nile, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of lush green landscapes, palm-fringed riverbanks, and picturesque villages. The ever-changing panorama will mesmerize you at every turn.
• Unforgettable Sunsets: Witnessing the sunset on the Nile is a magical experience. The warm hues of the sky reflecting on the tranquil waters create a serene and captivating ambiance, making each evening aboard the cruise a cherished moment.
• Activities and Attractions from the Boat: While cruising the Nile, you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at Egypt’s iconic landmarks and archaeological wonders right from the deck of your boat. Here are some of the activities and attractions you can enjoy:
• Temple Visits: From the awe-inspiring temples of Luxor and Karnak to the stunning Abu Simbel temples, a Nile River cruise allows you to explore these ancient architectural marvels. Guided tours offer insights into the captivating history and mythology surrounding these temples.
• Valley of the Kings: Marvel at the grandeur of the Valley of the Kings, the final resting place of pharaohs and nobles. Discover intricately decorated tombs and witness the incredible preservation of ancient artifacts.
• Kom Ombo and Edfu Temples: The cruise will take you to the enchanting temples of Kom Ombo and Edfu. These perfectly preserved temples dedicated to the falcon-headed Horus and the crocodile god Sobek offer a glimpse into ancient religious practices.
• Aswan and Philae Temple : Explore the vibrant city of Aswan and visit the stunning Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Admire the magnificent architecture and learn about the temple’s relocation to its current location on Agilkia Island.

A Nile River cruise combines the comforts of modern travel with the enchantment of ancient Egypt. It offers a unique perspective on the country’s rich history, allowing you to witness its iconic landmarks and archaeological treasures in a captivating and leisurely manner.

Prepare for an extraordinary journey along the legendary Nile, where the river’s gentle flow guides you through Egypt’s remarkable past. Stay tuned for our concluding segment, where we summarize why Egypt should be your next destination. Get ready to set sail on a voyage of a lifetime!

Conclusion – Discover the Marvels of Egypt: Your Next Travel Destination!

As we near the end of our exploration, let’s take a moment to recap the top 10 reasons to visit Egypt in 2023/2024. From ancient wonders to natural beauty and cultural riches to unique experiences, Egypt offers an unforgettable journey that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. So, why should you consider Egypt as your next travel destination?

• Historical and Cultural Wonders: Immerse yourself in the legacy of ancient Egypt, marvel at the Pyramids of Giza, explore the Valley of the Kings, and wander through captivating temples.
• Natural Beauty: Dive into the vibrant underwater world of the Red Sea coral reefs, wander through the enchanting Siwa Oasis, and cruise along the majestic River Nile.
• Unique Experiences: Ride a camel across the desert, savor a traditional Egyptian dinner, and embrace the vibrant local culture through festivals and events.
• Hospitality and Cuisine: Experience the warm and welcoming nature of the Egyptian people, indulge in mouthwatering traditional dishes, and sip on refreshing beverages.
• Accessibility and Safety: Benefit from the efforts made by the Egyptian government to ensure the safety of tourists and explore Egypt’s tourism industry, accommodating people with disabilities or special needs.
• Events and Festivals: Immerse yourself in the cultural celebrations of Egypt, from the prestigious Cairo International Film Festival to the captivating Abu Simbel Sun Festival.
• Affordable Prices: Discover the affordability of travel in Egypt compared to other popular tourist destinations, with tips on saving money while experiencing the best of Egypt.
• Sustainable Tourism: Witness Egypt’s commitment to sustainable practices, preserving natural habitats, reducing plastic waste, and how you can actively participate in sustainable tourism.
• Ecotourism Opportunities: Delve into Egypt’s protected areas and eco-lodges, where you can connect with nature responsibly and support local communities.
• The Nile River Cruise: Embark on an epic journey through ancient Egypt, witness iconic landmarks from the comfort of a cruise, and immerse yourself in the fascinating history along the Nile.

With all these great reasons, Egypt beckons you to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. From the captivating historical sites to the stunning natural wonders, Egypt offers an enriching experience that combines the best of culture, history, and natural beauty.

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Reasons You Should Visit Egypt at Least Once

Egypt may be known for ancient treasures and rich history, but there is more to this nation than you might expect. From surreal waters and golden sand beaches to remarkable architecture and natural therapies, Egypt is worthy of your bucket list. Here are some of the top reasons Egypt should be your next destination.

Keen to visit Egypt but not quite sure where to begin with planning your itinerary? Consider joining Culture Trip’s specially curated 10-day Egypt adventure, led by our local insider .

It’s one of the oldest ancient civilisations in the world

Ancient Egypt is one of the most interesting and oldest civilisations in the world. The Great Pyramids of Giza, the only surviving ancient wonder, along with ancient Egyptian statues and tombs, continue to seize the attention of top archaeologists and, of course, the wider world. To this day, remains of the ancient Egyptian civilization continue to be discovered.

It has the longest river in the world

Ranking as the longest river in the world, the Nile extends around 6,695km (4,160mi) and flows into the Mediterranean. You can visit a number of attractions along its length; the most prominent being Luxor and Aswan, both of which feature on Culture Trip’s exclusive small-group Egypt tour .

You’ll follow the footsteps of Moses

Mount Sinai, also known as Jabal Al Tor or Mount Moses, is considered a holy site and is visited by pilgrims from religions including Islam, Christianity and Judaism. It is where the prophet Moses received the divine commandments from God. It is located in the beautiful Sinai Peninsula, where many come to enjoy mountain climbing and hiking, too.

Paradise beneath the waves

The Red Sea is without question the best place to dive in Egypt. It offers diverse locations for an unforgettable experience including bright corals and colourful, distinctive fish. Egypt offers different diving opportunities including wrecks, walls, drifts, pinnacles, shore dives, day boats and liveaboards.

The beaches are gorgeous

The beaches of Egypt are a dream come true with the country home to internationally renowned beaches guaranteed to delight sunseekers. From natural pools and crystal blue waters to steady beaches as well as surfing spots, they are not to be missed.

It’s a hotspot for water sports champions

Dahab, Safaga, Hurghada, Ras Sudr and El Gouna are all among the top kite and windsurfing destinations in Egypt. Kite and windsurfing champions from around the world train in these locations due to the perfect weather and steady, safe waters. Not a champion? Egypt has some of the best kite and windsurfing schools as well.

The weather is great all year round

Egypt’s high season never ends. Summer is the perfect time to take a dip and go diving, while winter is the best time to visit the historic desert sites.

Safari desert trips are the best in Egypt

Much of the land here is desert, making it the perfect spot for a new kind of adventure. The best way to discover the region is via a safari trip. Camp to enjoy the full experience.

Horseback riding here is amazing

Wherever you’re going to enjoy your horseback riding experience in Egypt, rest assured you’ll have a view to go with it. Enjoy a ride across the dunes overlooking the lake in Fayoum, pass by the great pyramids or enjoy a romantic ride by the crystal blue beaches in Hurghada.

It’s a dream for architecture and art lovers

Cairo has some of the best Islamic architecture and art on earth. Visit mosques that have been standing for 1,200 years, such as the Mosque of Ibn Tulun, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, the Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan and more. These mosques are a perfect chance for architecture, art and history buffs to soak up some culture.

Egyptian cuisine is delicious

Egyptian food has been influenced by neighbouring countries in the Middle East, resulting in dishes full of flavour. Not only is it delicious, but the food in Egypt shapes the national culture. Egyptians turn to food in times of happiness, need and struggle. It’s the highlight of any occasion.

Egypt’s therapeutic waters and sands

Therapeutic tourism has long been popular in Egypt. The hot springs here are reputed to help cure respiratory diseases, kidney, bone and other skin problems. The mud in many areas is also said to cure skin issues. Sand-burying massages are also popular in Egypt and are said to treat physical injuries.

Egyptian people are a diverse bunch

In Egypt, people have different accents, distinctive food, unique traditions and even different fashions depending on which city they are from. Some cities even have different languages. Just wandering around Egypt is an experience in and of itself.

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Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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Why You Should Visit Egypt This Year

By Erin Florio

The unveiling of the game-changing Grand Egyptian Museum has been delayed again. And yet the news from the ground is that, for the first time in eight years, there’s a wait list for Cairo hotels and boat trips along the Nile. After a tumultuous few years, Egypt, it seems, is back on the map. It had been hoped that the $1 billion sleek marble temple to the country’s antiquities would have swung open its doors by now, revealing, most crucially, King Tutankhamen’s entire burial collection—more than 5,000 pieces—displayed to the public in an exact replica of the tomb itself, allowing visitors to see everything (bejeweled sandals, embroidered tunics, and the Boy King’s death mask) just as Howard Carter did when he made his milestone discovery in 1922. And while everyone waits patiently, elsewhere in the country the momentum mounts. Luxury travel outfitter Sanctuary Retreats has just launched weekly sailings of its boutique wooden boats on the Nile , kitted out with Art Deco fixtures and leather deck chairs to sink into while gazing at the teeming ancient tombs and temples of Luxor. Oberoi Hotels & Resort's ship The Oberoi Philae was given a top-to-bottom refurb in 2016, including a rooftop pool and fewer, more spacious rooms, as well as a spa with views out to Medinet Habu, the resting place of Rameses II and one of the newer spots on the ship’s itinerary. And next month the much-talked-about St. Regis Cairo will open right on the river, injecting the city’s dusty hotel scene with a long-needed dose of glamour; its floor-to-ceiling windows offer the sharpest vista of Cairo’s pedestrian-friendly Corniche promenade anywhere around.

See a full list of where to go in 2019 here.

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Why Visit Egypt? - 6 Main Reasons

Egypt is one of the oldest and most fascinating civilizations and is known as the ' Land of the Pharaohs '. This is where the great ancient Egyptians wrote the history upon the sands of their lands. "Why should I visit Egypt?", you may ask. Maybe the question should be "Why not?" Why not … …

• Walk the footsteps of the Pharaohs .
• Behold the beauty and wonders that mankind built .
• Sail along the River Nile .

Over five thousand years of history – that is the legacy of Egypt, where you can learn about their ancient past, and how the past has shaped their future.

Did you know:

• 2024 is the 102th anniversary of the opening of Tutankhamun's tomb .
• The Grand Egyptian Museum , set to open in 2022 will be the largest archaeological museum in the world , with over 100,000 artifacts on display, including treasures from King Tutankhamun's tomb.
• A 3,000-year-old ancient road in Luxor known as the Grand Avenue of the Sphinxes officially reopened at the end of November 2021 with an epic grand procession after an extensive period of excavation. The 1.7-mile-long road is lined with approximately 700 sphinxes and connects Karnak Temple to Luxor Temple. It is one of the world's largest ancient sites.
• Egypt is also full of mystery and wonders , where you can embark on a journey from the surreal waters, and golden sand beaches, to remarkable architecture ever built in the history of mankind

Therefore, we have listed 6 main reasons why you should make Egypt a must destination on your bucket list.

Suggested read: How to Plan Your First Trip to Egypt — 7 Easy Steps

1. Discover the mysteries of one of the oldest civilizations

Egyptian civilization was known for its mighty armies and great leaders. The country with its blend of the past and ancient relics has survived time. With countless archaeological sites and some of the world's best museums , you will be embarking on a journey through historical times.

Further reading: 10 Best Places to Visit in Egypt (Can't Be Beaten for First-Timers)

2. Immerse yourself in the culture

While walking the ancient streets, and winding passages, makes Egypt a great place to experience how the culture has developed and grown from ancient to modern times . The Egyptians formed one of our most astonishing cultures, revered for their extraordinary architecture, renowned Pharaohs, and superb inventions that shaped our world.

Suggested reading: How to Plan a 2-Week Egypt Itinerary: 4 Itinerary Ideas

3. Amazing feats of ingenuity

The ancient Egyptians established a civilization, and heritage with lasting memories by carving history into the sands of their regions, where they built magnificent tombs, temples, monuments, artifacts, and other ancient items.

You will be captivated by the historical and cultural structures ever erected, like the Giza Pyramids Complex , Luxor Temple and Karnak Complex , and the Valley of the Kings & Queens – where King Tutankhamun was buried, therefore making this an ideal destination for historical, architectural and cultural lovers.

Suggested reading: How Much Does It Cost to Travel in Egypt?

4. The largest desert in the world

Did you know that over 94% of Egypt is sand? Therefore Egyptian culture and heritage were shaped by such severe conditions of the desert. The Sahara or 'The Greatest Desert' is the largest hot desert in the world , and is the third largest desert on the planet after Antarctica and Artic deserts.

Around 6000 BC, some of the early Egyptians living there would herd cattle and build large structures. At that time people used a barter system, trading food and animals. Today, the Sahara Desert's population is around 2.5 million covering 9 million square kilometers, spanning nearly a third of the African continent and covering a total of 11 countries.

The desert offers anyone wanting a break from the city to head out and appreciate the pristine unspoiled natural beauty . If you like nature and adventure, you can go camel riding , trekking , or hiking , visit oases – such as the Siwa Oasis, located in the middle of an ocean of golden sand, and enjoy the desert night sky.

5. The River Nile – the historic lifeblood of Egypt

The Nile is ranked as the longest river in the world with a length of more than 6,6000 km and ends at the Mediterranean Sea in the north. Sail along the Nile River and explore its beauty and learn about how the Ancient Egyptians believed that the eastern side represents life and the western side is for death and the afterlife , therefore many lived on the eastern bank, and built their tombs and burial sites on the western bank. With a cruise along the River, you will see great attractions of Luxor city as well as the monumental sites of Aswan.

Read more about Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Egypt

6. Savor the gastronomy

Egyptian cuisine is one of the most unique in the world, blending many different influences from other parts of Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. This created an amazing melting pot of different cultures which come together to create some magnificent food. You can enjoy the sweet and savory tastes of the county as you explore the colorful bazaars. Egyptian cuisine will make your visit a delightful one.

Further reading:

• The Best Egyptian Foods and Dishes You Have to Try
• What the Egyptian People Eat for Breakfast

With a visit to Egypt, you can see hieroglyphs, explore ancient ruins, and encounter history you could never imagine. So, don't ask why you should visit, but why not? Allow us to help you begin your journey to explore and learn how this ancient civilization has shaped our world. Check some popular Egypt tours for inspiration.

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Top Reasons Why You Should Visit Egypt

Egypt, with its rich history, iconic landmarks, and captivating culture, has long been a dream destination for travelers around the world.

From the majestic pyramids to the serene Nile River, Egypt offers a mesmerizing blend of ancient wonders and modern charm. In this article, we’ll explore eight compelling reasons to visit Egypt and experience the enchantment that this remarkable country has to offer.

Table of Contents

When traveling to Egypt…

To get around efficiently, consider utilizing various transportation options such as taxis, buses, or the Cairo Metro, which connects key areas in the capital.

The official currency used in Egypt is the Egyptian pound (EGP), and it is recommended to exchange your currency at banks or authorized exchange offices. If you encounter restrictions on accessing WhatsApp, a popular communication app, you can try using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to use Whatsapp in Egypt and ensure uninterrupted communication with friends and family. When planning your routes, prioritize visiting renowned attractions like the Great Pyramids of Giza, Luxor’s ancient temples, and much more, as we’ll discuss later.

However, it is advisable to stay away from certain areas near the border regions, such as the Sinai Peninsula, due to potential security concerns.

Ancient Egyptian Civilization

Egypt, often called the “Gift of the Nile,” boasts one of the world’s most captivating and influential ancient civilizations.

Stretching back over 5,000 years, the legacy of the Ancient Egyptians continues to mesmerize and inspire people from all corners of the globe. From monumental pyramids to intricate tombs, from majestic temples to spellbinding artworks, the remnants of this ancient civilization stand as testaments to their ingenuity, intellect, and profound cultural beliefs.

The ancient Egyptians developed a sophisticated society that thrived along the banks of the Nile River.

They excelled in various fields, including architecture, engineering, mathematics, astronomy, medicine, and art. The pyramids, towering structures that housed the pharaohs in their afterlife, showcase their remarkable architectural prowess and engineering marvels. The Great Pyramid of Giza, constructed around 4,500 years ago, remains an enduring symbol of the ancient Egyptian civilization and an astonishing achievement in human history.

The religious beliefs of the Ancient Egyptians played a central role in their society. They worshiped numerous gods and goddesses, each associated with different aspects of life and natural phenomena. The temples of Luxor, Karnak, and Abu Simbel were places of reverence and ritual, constructed with meticulous attention to detail and adorned with intricate carvings and hieroglyphics.

Exploring these sacred sites provides a profound insight into the spiritual practices and beliefs that shaped the daily lives of the ancient Egyptians.

The Pyramids of Giza

The Pyramids of Giza, one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring architectural marvels in the world, stand as a testament to the ingenuity, power, and grandeur of ancient Egypt.

Located on the outskirts of Cairo, these monumental structures have captivated the imagination of travelers and historians for centuries. The Great Pyramid of Giza, built for Pharaoh Khufu around 4,500 years ago, is the largest of the three pyramids and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Rising majestically from the desert landscape, the pyramids astound with their sheer size and precision construction. 

The mystery surrounding their construction, with theories ranging from slave labor to advanced engineering techniques, adds to their allure.

Exploring the pyramids, venturing into their intricate passages, and gazing at the panoramic views from their summits evoke a sense of wonder and awe, providing a profound connection to the ancient past and the remarkable civilization that built these enduring monuments. The Pyramids of Giza truly represent the enduring legacy of the ancient Egyptians and continue to inspire admiration and reverence for their architectural achievements.

The Temples of Luxor and Karnak

The temples of Luxor and Karnak, located on the east bank of the Nile River in modern-day Luxor, Egypt, stand as magnificent testaments to the grandeur and artistic brilliance of the ancient Egyptian civilization.

The temple complex of Karnak, covering an area of over 100 hectares, is a sprawling architectural masterpiece. Walking through its majestic precincts, visitors are awestruck by the towering columns, adorned with intricate hieroglyphics, and the colossal statues that guard the sacred spaces. 

The Hypostyle Hall, with its forest of massive columns, is a sight to behold, leaving visitors in awe of the architectural precision and artistic sophistication of the ancient Egyptians.

Luxor Temple, located in the heart of modern Luxor, is a captivating blend of grandeur and elegance. It was dedicated to the god Amun-Ra and served as a setting for religious ceremonies and festivals. The temple’s stunning pylon entrance, colossal statues, and beautifully carved reliefs transport visitors back in time, immersing them in the rituals and beliefs of the ancient Egyptians. 

The Nile River

The Nile River, often referred to as the lifeblood of Egypt, weaves its way through the heart of the country, leaving a trail of mesmerizing beauty and profound historical significance. As the longest river in Africa and one of the world’s most famous waterways, the Nile holds a special place in the collective imagination. 

Its serene waters have nurtured the fertile lands along its banks for millennia, allowing civilizations to flourish and shaping the course of history.

A journey along the Nile offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural treasures. Cruising down its meandering path, travelers are treated to breathtaking vistas of lush greenery, picturesque villages, and ancient temples that rise majestically from the river’s edge. The tranquil rhythm of the Nile, coupled with the mesmerizing play of light and shadow during sunrise and sunset, creates an ambiance of serenity and timelessness. 

Exploring the riverside towns, such as Luxor and Aswan, provides glimpses into the daily lives of the Egyptian people, where traditional ways of life seamlessly blend with the demands of the modern world. The Nile River is not only a source of inspiration for poets and artists but also a gateway to the rich tapestry of Egypt’s history, culture, and natural beauty.

The Red Sea Riviera

Egypt’s Red Sea Riviera is a paradise for beach lovers and underwater enthusiasts.

With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, this coastal region offers world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities. From the resort town of Sharm El Sheikh to the laid-back charm of Dahab, the Red Sea Riviera provides a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty.

Cultural Richness

Egyptian culture is a vibrant tapestry woven from ancient traditions and contemporary influences.

Exploring the bustling streets of Cairo, with its lively bazaars, aromatic street food, and Islamic architecture, immerses you in the country’s vibrant cultural fabric. The warmth and hospitality of the Egyptian people make every interaction memorable, as they eagerly share their rich heritage and traditions.

Unique Cuisine

Egyptian cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavors and influences from the Middle East, Africa, and the Mediterranean.

Indulge in aromatic dishes such as kosher, falafel, and ful medames. Sip on a cup of traditional mint tea or savor the rich taste of Egyptian coffee. Exploring the local food scene is a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds craving more.

Diverse Landscapes

Egypt’s diverse landscapes offer a captivating journey through contrasting natural wonders that will leave travelers in awe of their breathtaking beauty.

From the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert to the lush greenery along the Nile River and from the vibrant coral reefs of the Red Sea to the tranquil oases tucked amidst arid lands, Egypt boasts an array of landscapes that cater to every adventurer’s desire. The Sahara Desert, one of the world’s largest deserts, mesmerizes with its undulating dunes, vast stretches of golden sand, and a night sky filled with countless twinkling stars. Exploring this vast expanse offers a profound sense of solitude and an opportunity to witness the mesmerizing beauty of sunrise or sunset over the endless horizon. 

The Red Sea Riviera beckons along the coast with its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and an underwater world teeming with diverse marine life.

Diving and snorkeling enthusiasts can explore this underwater paradise, encountering colorful fish, majestic sea turtles, and even elusive dolphins. Inland, the oases dotted across the Western Desert provide tranquil havens amidst the arid landscapes. 

These lush pockets of greenery are home to date palm groves, natural springs, and mud-brick villages, offering a glimpse into a more serene and traditional way of life.

Whether traversing the dunes of the desert, exploring the underwater wonders of the Red Sea, or immersing oneself in the tranquility of an oasis, Egypt’s diverse landscapes provide an opportunity for unforgettable adventures and an appreciation of the country’s natural splendor.

The Enigmatic Valley of the Kings

Located on the west bank of the Nile in Luxor, the Valley of the Kings is a site of immense archaeological significance.

It served as the burial ground for numerous pharaohs, including the famous Tutankhamun. Exploring the intricately decorated tombs, adorned with colorful hieroglyphics and intricate artwork, provides a glimpse into the belief system and afterlife rituals of the ancient Egyptians. The Valley of the Kings is a testament to the opulence and grandeur that surrounded the pharaohs on their journey to eternity.

Vibrant Festivals and Celebrations

Egypt is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations that showcase the country’s cultural richness and religious traditions.

The most famous of these is the Festival of Ramadan, a month-long observance where Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. Witnessing the festive atmosphere, the colorful decorations and joining in the joyous gatherings during this time provides a unique insight into the Islamic culture and the spirit of unity that binds the Egyptian community together. Other notable celebrations include Coptic Christmas, Easter processions, and the mesmerizing Whirling Dervishes performances.

Planning to visit? Here’s how to get a visa for Egypt !

In short, Egypt is a destination that beckons travelers with its unparalleled blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Plan your visit to Egypt and embark on a journey that will unravel the mysteries of the past while creating memories that will last a lifetime.

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The Egyptian Traveler

Uncover The Wonders Of Egypt: 10 Compelling Reasons To Visit The Land Of The Pharaohs 🇪🇬

Egypt is a magical country full of history, and it is a must visit. Discovering this land of mystery, and the ancient templates and artefacts is a unique experience that is a must at least once in your lifetime. Egypt also have beautiful white beaches and reefs on the red sea that are also a must.

10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Egypt

1. fascinating history.

The number one reason for you to visit Egypt would be the fascinating history, Egypt has so much to offer. The best thing about its history, is that you don't just get to learn about it, but you get to live it. Anywhere you go in Egypt, you will be learning & experiencing something new, everywhere you go you will be encountered with history.

2. Delicious Cuisine

Egyptian food is so delicious, trust me you will love the flavours this cuisine have to offer. I took my friends before to an Egyptian restaurant when I was living in Spain, and they LOVED it! You have a lot of variety to choose from, so whether you eat meat, or if you are vegetarian or vegan, you will find something for you. Dishes such as Kushari, Falafel (Egyptian falafels are way different tha Lebanese), Mahshi (Literally translates to “Stuffed”), Kebab & Kofta, Om Ali, and much more.

3. Warmer Climate

We have a long summer in Egypt, so you will enjoy the beautiful and warm weather when you want. Winter starts in Egypt in December and end in either March or April, so you have the rest of the year for enjoying the warm weather. Summer in Egypt does get quite hot, so if you are not used to the heat, you should probably visit in March, April, September, October, and November.

4. It Is Budget Friendly

Egypt is a affordable location for tourists, it fits all budgets, so no matter what is your budget, this is the perfect destination for you. You will find a lot of accommodations available that will suit your budget, and also you will find a lot of tour packages which will help you save money as well.

5. Beautiful Beaches

Egypt is filled with beautiful beaches, wether that’s the Mediterranean or the Red Sea, so beside the historical sites that you would love, you will enjoy the warm weather by the beach. Cities such as Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh, or even Dahab, you will love it. Egypt is also a great spot for scuba diving, you will be able to do that in the Red Sea in spots such as the Blue Hole in Dahab.

6. The Best Museums

With so much history available, it is no wonder that will find a lot of museums to enjoy, and even if you are not a fan of museums, you will change your mind when you visit Egypt. More than 120,00 artefacts, statues, jewellery, and many more, you will be amazed by how many things we have available for you.

7. Mesmerising Temples

The real highlight of ancient Egypt besides The Pyramids are the templates, this is where you will be able to walk through the templates that the Pharos used to walk through as well! There are many temples around Egypt and they differ in size, colours, styles, and much more. Temples such as Karnak, Luxor, Hatshepsut, Abu Simbel, and many more.

8. Jaw Dropping Tombs

Even though it might sound scary, but the tombs in Egypt will leave you in awe. From their size, to their colours, they will be one of the highlight of your trip to Egypt.

9. The Last Standing Ancient Wonder of the World

The Pyramids are the last standing ancient wonder of the world, so visiting it is a must. You can get up and close with it which is crazy, you can also go inside the Pyramids as well as The Sphinx. You do not want to miss seeing them.

10. Camping Destination

If you are a fan of camping, then you will love Egypt even more. Imagine camping in the Sahara Desert under the stars, Egypt’s Western desert is a pristine, stark wilderness where you can camp, you can also go sand-boarding, immerse yourself in natural hot springs, and watch the stars at night. One of the coolest natural wonders in Egypt in the desert are the white chalk formations in the White Desert.

What To Do Before Travelling To Egypt

🪪 get your visa.

Easily get your visa with iVisa which is simple and much less complicated than dealing with foreign governments. All documents are reviewed by a team of immigration experts. Their staff is well-trained and offers years of experience.

→ Go to iVisa

✈️ Book Tickets

Book your flights seamlessly with WayAway. Compare prices, find the best deals, and jet off to Egypt with ease! — Get 10%  off WayAway Plus membership with this code → TP-385219.

→ Go to WayAway

📱 Buy A Travel SIM-Card

Stay connected easily with Airalo SIM-card. Activate one before your trip and enjoy hassle-free communication during your time in Egypt!

→ Go to Airalo

🔒 Choose Insurance

Ensure peace of mind during your trip to Egypt by having comprehensive coverage against any unforeseen circumstances.

→ Go to VisitorsCoverage

How To Get To Egypt

Egypt has many international airports that you can arrive to, here is a list of these airports:

Cairo International Airport

Hurghada International Airport

Sharm El Sheikh International Airport

Luxor International Airport

Alexandria International Airport

How To Move Around Egypt

It is so easy to move around Egypt without renting a car, also a tip; do not rent a car because driving in Egypt is so chaotic and exhausting. You can easily find trains and buses to move from one city to another, and you can also find planes if you want to since there is a quite a few airports. For buses I really like Blue Bus since it is the most clean and comfy one available, but if you are on a budget; you can still find cheaper buses such as Go Bus or The Super Jet. You can also use both Uber & Careem to move within each city, but be aware that they are not available in some areas so you can use public transportation.

Best Time To Visit Egypt

Egypt has a great weather nearly all year round, but it gets pretty cold during winter which is actually short since it would typically be from December/January until March/April. Be aware that during this time is the low season so things would be cheaper at that time. The best time to visit Egypt in general is between October and April, but if you are looking for a nice and warm weather, then it is best to visit in October, November, and April. You can of course visit Egypt during the summer, but it gets really hot during that time and it is also high season so things will be more expensive.

Accommodations In Egypt

Egypt has a wide range of accommodations available that would suit each budget, you can find a lot of hotels whether you want something luxurious or on a budget. You can also find hostels around Egypt if you really are on a budget, as well as some great Airbnbs.

You can book your accommodation through Booking.com , which is the one I use the most, or if you wan to stay in a hostel you can book through HostelWorld . You can also use Agoda , Trivago , or Vrbo  to book your accommodations. I know most people have a favourite website or app to use, so just choose what you prefer best.

• Guides & Itineraries

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The value of a trip is not the time it lasts, but the intensity with which it occurs

6 Reasons to Visit Egypt today

If you are thinking of visiting Egypt, this blog post is for you! This article will give you six reasons to visit Egypt right now and enjoy your trip to the fullest!

You’ll find everything from ancient pyramids at Giza to tombs of pharaohs deep in the desert sand, among the amazing history that can be found all over the country.

Another fantastic thing to see while traveling through Egypt is its world-famous temples and monuments. Here you will find the best places to visit in Egypt .

These include the Luxor’s Karnak Temple, Abu Simbel’s Great Temple of Ramses II, and the Valley of Kings near Luxor/Aswan – where there are more than 60 tombs belonging to Egyptian monarchs dating back 3,000 years ago.

All these things make it one of the most interesting places to visit.

You can also meet many friendly people in Egypt, who welcome travelers into their homes and want nothing more than for you to have a good time.

Egyptians are very hospitable people – they are known as the “hospitality country” of the world!

✏️ Post content

1. The Red Sea and Amazing Diving Opportunities

2. beaches and resorts for a relaxing getaway, 3. egypt evisa system, 4. ancient sites to explore, 5. jeep riding through the desert, 6. the nile river, 6 reasons to visit egypt right now.

If you’re interested in learning more about Egypt and what it has to offer, continue reading!

The Red Sea is the source of some of the most incredible diving opportunities in the world.

With a number of popular dive sites, crystal clear water, and abundant marine life, it’s no wonder that so many travelers go to Jordan for this experience.

You’ll be in awe of the Red Sea’s stunning colors, rare marine life, and vast amounts of fish species you won’t want to miss out on!

Some of the best diving spots in Egypt include:

• The Thistlegorm – for an incredible opportunity to explore the sank British vessel that was attacked during the Second World War. The ship was carrying war supplies, all of which can now be spotted underwater.
• The Shark and Yolanda Reef – if you’re lucky you may have a chance of seeing sharks during this underwater adventure!
• The Elphinstone Reef – is an incredible diving spot with numerous rare marine life species, including the Oceanic Whitetip shark. Moreover, you’ll be able to admire some coral reefs and colorful fish! Other than that, if you’re lucky, you can spot some dolphins and turtles as well. Getting to this diving spot requires taking a boat trip about 12 kilometers from the shore.

There is nothing more relaxing than a getaway to the beach. And, with so many beaches and resorts around the world, it can be difficult to choose one for your next vacation.

Egypt is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world .

The coastline stretches for miles, and there are plenty of resorts on offer for travelers who want to experience a relaxing getaway.

One of the most popular destinations in Egypt is Hurghada which has miles of coastline with excellent hotels such as the H ilton Hurghada Resort & Spa , InterContinental Al Manara Resort & Casino , Nile Palace Hotel and more!

Whether you’re looking for an all-inclusive resort or more budget accommodation, Egypt has it all!

Must read: The 7 most Beautiful Beaches in Europe for an unforgettable vacation.

Egypt, as many countries now, enables foreign travelers to cross the border using an eVisa system.

Electronic visas have been implemented into the world of traveling to ease the whole process.

It is now possible to your visa to Egypt entirely online following a quick and intuitive application process.

e-Visa Egypt comes in two types, depending on your needs, it can be either a single or multiple-entry travel authorization.

The processing time takes up 7 business days and the approved document lands on your email inbox! As simple as that!

Ancient sites in Egypt are some of the most historically important and awe-inspiring destinations.

With thousands of years of civilization, each site tells a unique story from an era that is long gone. One of the best reasons to visit Egypt! 

The ancient sites include:

• the Luxor’s Karnak Temple,
• Abu Simbel’s Great Temple of Ramses II, and
• the Valley of Kings near Luxor/Aswan – where there are more than 60 tombs belonging to Egyptian monarchs dating back 3,000 years ago.

If you want to go off the beaten path and have an authentic experience, then Jeep riding in the desert of Egypt is for you.

In the back of a Jeep, you can feel the hot wind on your skin and see the Egyptian desert spread out before you.

Your driver will stop at all the awe-inspiring sites along the way and tell you stories about how these ancient wonders came to be so powerful!

The Nile River is one of the most iconic rivers in the world . It’s long and winding, with many tributaries that make up its length.

There are several different options to choose from depending on what you’re looking for: boat cruises, helicopter tours, or even an underwater excursion!

The Nile River was considered sacred by ancient Egyptians- so not only will you get to see some of the most beautiful scenery in Africa, but you’ll also be able to learn about Egyptian history as well!

You don’t have to be a history buff or an archaeologist to appreciate the beauty of Egypt.

From its sprawling landscape and rich culture, to its modern-day cities and beaches, there is so much for any traveler to love about this country!

Sara Rodríguez

A passionate traveler with a mission: Help you plan your next trip easily and enjoy it to the fullest.

In this travel blog you will find everything you need to get inspired and organize your next adventure. Read more about my story here.

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10 Reasons to Visit Egypt

Published on: August 2nd, 2023

Last modified: March 8th, 2024

Some destinations capture the imagination of travellers the world over – and Egypt is certainly among them. Home to one of the oldest civilisations on earth, this North African country has a culture all of its own.

Explorers flock to Cairo and Luxor for their rich history, and to the Nile and Sahara for their natural allure. But there’s far more to this place than what you might see on a postcard. From temples and tombs to sand dunes and snorkelling, here are the top 10 reasons to visit Egypt.

Why Visit Egypt?

Fascinating history, legendary landmarks and stunning landscapes are some of the most obvious reasons to visit Egypt. But it’s also overflowing with hidden gems, gorgeous beaches, delicious cuisine and opportunities for adventure. And the only way to truly understand this iconic destination is to dive right in and explore it yourself.

1. Incredible Ancient History

Egypt’s top claim to fame is undoubtedly its past; this is where one of the world’s most impressive ancient civilisations flourished. Its remnants are everywhere you look, from the emblematic Pyramids of Giza to the endless archaeological sites spread across the country.

Here you can visit royal tombs in the Valley of the Kings – or soar over them at dawn on a hot air balloon tour – and have breakfast overlooking the Great Pyramid. Cairo is the ideal home base for history lovers, within easy reach of the most famous sites.

2. Captivating Temples

Among all of Egypt’s breathtaking architecture, its many temples deserve special mention. Stepping into one of these sacred buildings gives you a glimpse into how spirituality and mythology intersected with daily life in ancient Egypt.

The temples of Luxor and Karnak are essential stops; you can reach them via a scenic Nile cruise, a felucca excursion or a trip to the city of Luxor. The temples of Edfu and Dendera are equally enthralling, and the complex of Abu Simbel is well worth a day trip from Aswan .

3. Delicious Cuisine

Egyptian cuisine is unlike any other, echoing aspects of other culinary traditions while maintaining distinctive flavours. It’s centred on vegetables, legumes and fruit, as well as seafood in the coastal areas. You’ll also find delicious bread, cheese and meat dishes.

In Cairo you can take a traditional food tour to sample local specialities like koshari (pasta with chickpeas and lentils), ta’ameya (Egypt’s version of falafel) and om ali (similar to bread pudding). Or enjoy a luxurious private dinner in the rose garden of the Winter Palace Luxor .

4. Modern Cities & Culture

Although it’s best known for its illustrious past, modern-day Egypt is also worth exploring. The old and new parts of Cairo strike a fascinating balance, juxtaposing thousands of years of history with a bustling modern metropolis.

In Alexandria you can learn about Egypt’s recent past from journalists and political experts. From its burgeoning economy to its role in the Arab Spring, there’s much more to Egypt than what you’ll find in history books.

5. Thrilling Desert Adventures

The Western Desert is one of Egypt’s defining features. Part of the Sahara, it covers around two-thirds of the country. This vast landscape is dotted with oases, olive groves and even waterfalls – all of which can be discovered on exciting expeditions into the desert. 

Thrill-seekers can venture to Wadi Al-Hitan to see ancient whale fossils, or the dreamy Siwa Oasis with its turquoise lakes, swaying palms and the scenic village of Shali. The best time to visit is outside the summer months (July and August), when temperatures often exceed 40ºC (104° F).

6. Mesmerising Museums

It’s only logical that a country with this much history is chock-full of amazing museums. Highlights include the extensive Egyptian Museum, the innovative Grand Egyptian Museum and the elegant Luxor Museum.

Strolling through these beautifully designed spaces is one of the best things to do in Egypt – and the perfect complement to visiting the sites where many of their artefacts were found.

7. Expert Egyptologists

There aren’t many countries with an entire branch of science named after them. Egyptologists are devoted to the study of ancient Egyptian history, architecture, art, language and more. 

Visiting Egypt means learning about every aspect of its past from people who have dedicated their careers to it. These expert guides truly bring history to life; not only at museums and historical sites, but also on Nile cruises and Sahara adventures.

8. Authentic Nubian Villages

Southern Egypt is home to an indigenous group known as the Nubians, who descend from the ancient inhabitants of the Nubia region. Today they proudly keep their languages and traditions alive in small villages near the city of Aswan .

The Nubian villages are among the most interesting places to visit in Egypt , as they form an important – and often overlooked – part of the country’s identity. They’re also incredibly beautiful, with brightly painted houses and welcoming locals who are happy to share their heritage.

9. Year-Round Sunshine

Egypt is a wonderful place to visit in any season, boasting sunny skies and warm temperatures all year round. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach by the Red Sea or sailing down on the Nile on a traditional felucca, you can expect wonderful weather.

That said, summer (July and August) isn’t the best time to visit Egypt if you want to avoid extreme heat. If you’re here from June to August, consider visiting Alexandria on the Mediterranean coast. And keep in mind that some monuments open as early as 6am, before temperatures get too high.

10. Spectacular Snorkelling & Diving

Beyond its infinite deserts and colossal monuments, Egypt is also a world-class destination for underwater adventures. The Red Sea is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and incredibly clear waters, providing perfect conditions to discover its breathtaking marine life.

Visit Egypt’s coast in the summer (July and August) for sparkling sunlight and the best visibility, but remember that this also means hotter weather. If snorkelling and diving are your priorities, you can spend your days exploring beneath the sea’s surface and then cooling off in the shade.

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Top 5 Reasons to Visit Egypt on Vacation

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Dendera Temple, Egypt

The top reasons to visit Egypt reveal the long and lingering dream of culture, history, and heritage that can take you from ancient life to natural grandeur, with new ways to explore and possibilities that abound.

People visit Egypt to experience how the country’s ancient past unfolds like a storybook, with each page revealing a new, inspiring wonder, from the grand tip of the pyramids cracking the sky to the serene banks of the Nile River. From the Red Sea’s surprising opulence, the preserved architecture of medieval Islam, and continued Coptic Christian traditions, Egypt is full of marvels.

Our reasons to explore the country reveal when it is most beautiful, the unexpected charms that await, and more, to give you an idea of why Egypt is worth visiting on vacation.

1. Egypt Truly is a Year-Round Destination

2. the red sea coastline rivals the best in the world, 3. egypt is a treasure chest of ancient discovery, 4. egypt specialists can show you unbridled luxury, 5. exclusive itineraries showcase what makes egypt special, experience what makes egypt a must-visit destination.

Aswan, Egypt

No matter the time of year, an Egypt trip can take you on an exploration of vast desert dunes, rugged cliffs within reach of the Nile’s winding riverbanks, an ancient port, or the waters of a coastal paradise.

While the summers may reach peak temperatures, most of Egypt has a moderate climate that often surprises visitors, rather than the sweltering desert many expect. The different regions and seasons can give you a great diversity of crowds, weather, and the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The summer heat can also provide a new perspective on Egypt’s grandeur by revealing the splendor of the Red Sea, rather than only focusing on ancient heritage.

Autumn, winter, and spring, from the coastline to the winding edges of the Nile River, offer calm and consistent weather that makes it easy to travel, explore, and enjoy. The comfortable weather will enhance your trip and accentuate your connection to diverse cultures and mouth-watering cuisine. Whether interested in the fairytale architecture of the historic mosques or eager to bask in therapeutic waters, you can always find the right time to visit Egypt.

Learn more: Best Time to Visit Egypt

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Hurghada, Egypt

The heritage of Egypt stems from the tangible and intangible, ancient ruins to a specific cuisine, but the crystal-clear waters and vibrant coastline of the Red Sea add to the overall impression Egypt can make on your travel experiences.

The coastline along the Red Sea, where you can find Hurghada, one of Egypt’s top places to visit , feels like a surrealist vision come true, where soft, golden sands reflect the inland desert landscape, while overlooking the shifting colors of the water. It can immerse you into a paradise of palm trees that feel like a luxurious oasis, accentuated by the sea breeze, the scent of dates, and the touch of hot sand beneath your feet.

Whether looking for water sports or a luxurious beachside resort at which you can lounge, eager to dive along seabeds or wind through lively reefs erupting with rainbow hues, the Red Sea is an unexpected jewel.

The Great Sphinx of Giza in Egypt

Egypt feels like a treasure chest that connects the wonders of the ancient world to contemporary culture. As one of the world’s oldest civilizations, it has inspired visitors from across the globe eager to witness the impressive temples, learn through shared interactions, or continue to uncover a piece of the past to learn more about the shared heritage of the Mediterranean.

From the discovery of the first pharaoh, Narmer, who united the two kingdoms, to the story of Moses floating down the Nile River, Egypt will capture your imagination and bring legends to life. With artifacts and tombs continuously uncovered, the country’s ancient allure feels immortal as you explore on history tours and experience more of the top things to do in Egypt .

From Cairo to Luxor, Alexandria to Aswan, Egypt can feel like an open-air museum, with culture, traditions, and history preserved from its cities to villages. Whether wandering the former with a guide or exploring museum galleries, the depth of Egypt’s heritage is unparalleled.

Cairo, Egypt

With so much opulence, history, and heritage to explore, Egypt can feel overwhelming, but Egypt travel specialists can customize your luxury Egypt tours to focus on the best and finest experiences in the country.

Exploring Egypt’s beauty and charm with the help of a specialist can take you into unexpected palaces, medieval mosques, Nubian villages, and the grandeur of ancient ruins. A travel specialist understands the diversity and specific differences of the types of cultural experiences you may prefer.

You can expect splendor. You can expect wonder. But most of all, you can expect that your trip will unfold Egypt before your eyes as you discover more than just the famous monuments. From museums to tombs, shopping lanes to elegant beaches, you can discover Egypt in a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable way that highlights the important beauty of the cultures that share the land and heritage.

Luxor, Egypt

When planning an exclusive Egypt itinerary, you have the opportunity to travel to the renowned pyramids and beyond, explore uncovered tombs and more, and sample delicious cuisine and culture.

Working with Zicasso means you work with an Egypt travel expert who understands important customs, has local experience, and is knowledgeable about the various ways you can travel through the country at your pace, within your preferences, to make your desired experiences a reality and showcase why Egypt is worth visiting.

Exclusive Itineraries in Egypt:

One-Week Capturing the Essence of Egypt in Cairo, Luxor, & Aswan is a brilliant introduction to the highlights of the ancient world and the Nile River’s timeless allure. Experience the beauty and essence of heritage that spans millennia, while witnessing the wonders of the ancient world.

Highlights: Explore the mysterious and momentous Pyramids of Giza • Visit the ancient capital of Memphis • Tour the impressive odes to ancient Egyptian gods at the Karnak and Luxor temples • Soar over the Nile River and the Egyptian desert in a hot-air balloon

Travel through the wonders of the past in luxury as the ancient world meets contemporary opulence on this 12-day Exploring the History of Ancient Egypt With a Relaxing Resort Escape . From Cairo to Abu Simbel, treasured oases to the comforts of the Red Sea, you can indulge in the uncommon splendor of Egypt.

Highlights: Visit the massive rock-cut temples of Abu Simbel • Cruise in a romantic and calming traditional Egyptian sailboat • Admire the Greek-built architecture in honor of ruling pharaohs of the Edfu Temple • Discover Cairo’s timeless historic highlights • Tour Alexandria’s wealth of heritage • Revel in the clear waters of the Red Sea

Wonders of Egypt & the Great Pharaohs: 11 Days for History Buffs indulges in the sacred and mysterious, the awe-inspiring and the unique. From the astonishing pyramids to picture-perfect temples, the Valley of the Queens to a traditional felucca , you can discover the distinctive pleasures of Egypt like an amateur archeologist.

Highlights: Discover the Great Pyramids and the impressive Sphinx • Explore the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel temples • Visit the staggering Philae Temple on the banks of the Nile • Journey to the Valley of the Queens • Enter the intricate network of ancient burial grounds in the Valley of the Kings • Explore Egypt’s history within bustling Cairo

Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt

Egypt is the perfect destination in which to combine adventure and culture, relaxation and discovery. With four-wheel excursions, luxury cruises along the Nile River, or uncovering artifacts in the famous Egyptian Museum, you can experience Egypt in all its grandeur and diversity on our Egypt tours and vacations .

For more travel tips and insight to inspire your custom trip to Egypt, explore our specialist advice in our Egypt travel guide .

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With Egypt topping the list of must visit destinations year after year, don’t miss the opportunity and experience it for yourself already!

Don’t take it just from me, Lonely Planet voted Egypt among its top destinations last year, and now National Geographic has listed Cairo as one of the best tourist destinations for 2023. So what better time than now?

Egypt is a country of rich history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an attractive destination for travellers in 2023. From the ancient landmarks of the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, to the diverse landscapes of the desert and the Nile Delta, to the vibrant arts and music scene, there are many reasons to visit Egypt. In addition to its many attractions, Egypt also offers a range of accommodation options and good value for money on travel services, making it an affordable and enjoyable destination for travellers. Here are ten reasons you need to make Egypt the top of your 2023 bucket list!

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Explore the ancient landmarks of Egypt

Ok, let’s the obvious out of the way, Egypt is famous for it’s ancient history and most travellers come hoping to fulfill their childhood archaeology dreams!

Egypt is a land of fascinating history and culture, with landmarks such as the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Valley of the Kings. These ancient structures are some of the best-preserved examples of ancient Egyptian architecture and art, and are a must-see for anyone interested in history or archaeology. In addition to these iconic sites, there are also many other ancient temples, tombs, and museums to explore, offering a wealth of information and insights into the country’s rich past.

What makes 2023 even MORE special is that the Grand Egyptian Museum is FINALLY opening! Once opened, this museum will be sure to rank among the best in the world, over 100,000 artifacts and incredible exhibits like King Tut’s entire treasure collection.

Must visit sites: Pyramids of Giza, Great Sphinx, Valley of the Kings, Temple of Karnak just to name a few!

Get a good bang for your travel budget

One of the main reasons to visit Egypt in 2023 has to be that it is a relatively affordable destination, offering good value for money on accommodation, food, and activities. Compared to other popular tourist destinations, Egypt offers competitive prices on a wide range of travel services, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers. In addition to the lower costs, Egypt also has a well-developed tourism industry, with a wide range of options and services to suit every budget and preference. This means that visitors can enjoy a high-quality travel experience without breaking the bank. Furthermore, the country’s favorable exchange rate means that visitors can get even more value for their money, making it an attractive destination for budget-conscious travelers.

The recent fluctuations in exchange rates have made it a difficult time for many locals, so please be mindful and tip generously if you can! Here’s a tipping guide to help you navigate your travels through Egypt!

Sample the delicious Egyptian cuisine

Egypt has a rich and varied culinary tradition, with a wide range of dishes and drinks to try. From spicy stews and grilled meats to sweet pastries and refreshing juices, there is something for every palate. In addition to the traditional cuisine, Egypt is also home to many international restaurants and cafes offering a variety of cuisines from around the world. Egypt is also a very vegetarian and vegan friendly destination.

I mean where else can you have brunch, with a view like this?

Must try foods: Koshary, Ta’ameya (Egyptian falafel) and Fresh juices (Sugar cane being the Egyptian go-to)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 9 Pyramids Lounge (@9pyramidslounge)

Experience the vibrant arts and music scene

The arts and music scene in Egypt is vibrant and diverse, with many traditional and contemporary performances to enjoy. Visitors can experience traditional music and dance performances, as well as modern music festivals and art exhibitions. In addition to these cultural events, Egypt is also home to many museums and galleries showcasing the country’s rich artistic heritage, as well as contemporary works by local and international artists.

Must visits for creatives: Khan el Khalili market , Museum of Islamic Art

Enjoy the warm and sunny climate

The warm and sunny climate in Egypt makes it a great destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its Mediterranean and Red Sea coasts, Egypt offers beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters for swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports. In addition to the beaches, the country’s warm climate also makes it a great place for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and desert safaris.

Use Egypt as a base for regional exploration

As a country located at the crossroads of Africa and the Middle East, Egypt is a great base for exploring the region. With its central location and good transport links, Egypt is a convenient starting point for regional tours and excursions. In addition to its own rich history and culture, Egypt is surrounded by many other fascinating countries and cultures, offering opportunities for further exploration and discovery.

Embark on adrenaline adventure activities in Egypt

Egypt is a popular destination for adventure seekers, with opportunities for activities such as scuba diving, desert safaris, and hot air balloon rides. Whether you want to explore the underwater world of the Red Sea or soar above the desert sands, there are plenty of exciting experiences to be had in Egypt.

Here are 30+ bucket list worthy activities to have in Egypt.

Discover the beauty of Egypt’s diverse landscapes

Egypt is a country of diverse landscapes, ranging from the sandy deserts of the Western Desert to the fertile Nile Delta. This natural beauty provides a wide range of opportunities for outdoor activities and adventures, such as hiking, birdwatching, and camel safaris. In addition to its natural beauty, Egypt is also home to many beautiful beaches and clear waters, making it a great destination for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.

Learn about and experience the diverse cultures of Egypt

Egypt is a country of diverse cultures and backgrounds, with people from many different ethnic, religious, and linguistic backgrounds living together in harmony. This diversity is reflected in the country’s arts, music, and cuisine, and visitors can learn about and experience the rich cultural heritage of the region. In addition to its cultural diversity, Egypt is also home to many international organizations and institutions, making it a cosmopolitan and globalized destination.

The Nubian culture in the southern part of Egypt is particularly unique! The Nubians have a rich and diverse culture that has been influenced by a range of different civilizations, including the ancient Egyptians, Romans, and Arabs. They are known for their vibrant and colorful art, music, and dance, which often incorporate traditional instruments and elements of their indigenous spiritual beliefs. Make sure to pay a visit to Aswan to experience some of it for yourself!

Now is the time – avoid the crowds

While on my most recent trip to Egypt, it’s gotten considerably busier, but travel levels have still not returned to their previous peaks. That’s why I have to remind you, what are you waiting for, 2023 is definitely the year to plan a trip to Egypt!

Some additional guides that may help with your trip planning:

• Egypt travel tips for first-timers
• Where to stay in Cairo , advice on the best neighbourhoods
• What are the  most unique souvenirs to buy in Egypt
• A  two-day itinerary for Alexandria Egypt
• Amazing pyramid view hotels  you should consider staying at
• The  best 15 spots in Cairo for instagram photos
• Vegan Food Guide to Egypt –  Traditional Foods You MUST try
• Planning a honeymoon in Egypt ? I share everything you need to know!

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10 Reasons Why Visit Egypt?

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The well said thought, ‘Do not judge a book by its cover’ is the definite identity of Egypt. How? Well, while in a picture, the place looks like a shiny infinite sheet of the golden desert and a middle eastern lifestyle, the place is full of exquisite experiences as you travel within. So, visit Egypt and witness the love for culture, color, crafts, history, and treasures. Read on to discover the top reasons why you should visit Egypt for your next vacation.

10 Top Reasons to Visit Egypt, Northeast Africa

1. witness age-old culture and traditions.

The touch of exotic culture, unharmed legacy, and rich heritage accessorize Egypt. Be a part of its unique festivals and lively carnivals as they represent its varied eclectic elements. Whether it is the Sphinx Festival or the Cairo Jazz Festival, the festivals in Egypt are full of charm and hidden magic.

Where To Go?

Cairo , Luxor, Giza, and many other cities. 

2. Witness the Most Distinct Forms of Crafts

The second most important reason why you must visit Egypt is for the love of arts and crafts. If you are an art admirer, then this place is more than once in a lifetime visit. The Egyptians have always gained attention for their sculptures, wall arts, historic inscriptions, carvings, etc., since the ancient era. So, take a tour of its art lanes that project a chain of amazing creations. 

Museum of Islamic Art Cairo, Townhouse Gallery, Manasterly Palace, and many more.

3. Listen to the Poetic Waves of the Sahara

The thrilling Sahara desert safari is one of the prominent reasons to visit Egypt. The largest hot desert in the world is a legend to explore and a melody to be heard. The adventurers can hire a desert safari or ride a quad bike for the time of their lives. While the leisure seekers can stargaze by the bonfire. You can also spot a variety of wildlife here. So, ride on the ocean of desert and have unlimited fun in Egypt. 

Where To Go ?

Great Sand Sea, Sinai Desert, Blue Desert, Eastern Desert, and many more.

4. For the Rich Egyptian Hospitality

You must have heard of Egyptian hospitality. The luxury that Egyptian resorts serve reminds of its royal era. So, check-in for an absolute luxe delight and enjoy the pleasures of Egyptian hospitality. Stay at a Mediterranean resort with a sea view and experience the rich Egyptian hospitality combined with the wonderful views of the coastline. 

Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa, Serenity Makadi Beach, Hurghada Marriott Beach Resort, and many more.

5. Sail on the Shimmering Blue Nile

The Nile is one of the greatest treasures of Egypt, also the longest river on the globe. This sailor’s wonderland symbolizes life and is the core of Egyptian civilization. You can boat, sail, explore the historic attractions, and hidden kingdoms by this river. In the evening, do not miss the magical sunset view here.

Cairo, Giza, Luxor, and many other places.

6. Indulge in the Galvanizing Middle Eastern Treats

Now, what to say about Egyptian delicacies when it has already taken the world by a storm. From local to posh restaurants, the food here is more of a journey than a bite. So, get ready to taste one of the most flavorsome, traditionally-preserved delicacies fueled by the warm Egyptian hospitality. 

Al Khal Egyptian Restaurant, Local eating outlets in the streets of Cairo, Asyut, Sharm El-Sheikh, and many other places. 

7. For the Shopping of a Lifetime At the Souks

If you have a flea shopping bug, then the traditional souks in Egypt are the must-visit spots. You can get the best kind of local retail experience here as Egypt is known for spices, silver jewelry, hookahs, lanterns, ceramics and so much more. So, engage in a shopping delight and collect legendary souvenirs. Put on your bargainer’s hat though!

El-Souk, Khan-el-Khalili Bazaar, and many other places. 

8. Rekindle Memories with a Hot Air Balloon Ride

An exciting hot balloon ride awaits for you in Egypt. Prepare to fly over the historical pyramids, ancient temples, and majestic desert for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. A fun fact, an Egyptian balloon ride happens to be a great way to propose as well. So, what are you waiting for? Confess your love or revive your love for your partner in a magical setup.

9. Seek the Hidden Lanes and Legends in History

Egypt has multiple layers, some explored, while some are hidden. If you are a digger for legends, the hidden mysteries, then visit Egypt. Explore the ancient ruins and walk down the chambers that were once the secrets routes. Make sure you have enough time to explore at a slow pace as you discover the historic legends of the place.

Karnak Temple Complex, Valley of the Kings, The Temple of Philae, and others. 

10. Take a Tour of the Ancient Past

Egypt is the one country that is known for a past that is well-preserved to date. Every corner in Egypt holds a historic link. Explore the wonderful antique towns, structures, museums, that express its old-age magnificence. Decipher the grandness of Egypt to touch base with a past that is thousands of years old. 

Pyramid of Khufu, Great Sphinx of Giza, Giza Necropolis, Abu Simbel Temples, Montaza Palace, and many other places. 

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8 Reasons Why You Should Visit Egypt

Of all ancient civilizations, Egypt seems to hold a special magnetism for the modern world. Ruined monuments etched with a fascinating script, colossal pyramids, imposing temples, spectacular landscapes, and incredible archaeological discoveries all add to the mystique surrounding. Like a steady staccato, it reverberates far and wide, beckoning everyone to come and experience its age-old tale of wonder.  

Because of Egypt’s unique geographical positioning, lying at the corner of three continents ( Africa, Asia, and Europe ), it soon became the centre of attention for its strategic importance. The land has attracted many outsiders, often as invaders. Hyksos, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Mamluks, Ottomans, French, and British have ruled over the country, introducing their languages, populations, and ways of life. 

You cannot experience the whole of Egypt in one trip – and we do not recommend you try either. However, we suggest places you should explore according to your interests first. We are sure you will find more interesting things to do and see during your first trip compelling you to visit again.

Egypt boasts of several world-class museums that make experiencing the history and seeing the artefacts of the country a pleasure. You may have seen some of the Egyptian glimpses if you have visited your country’s museum. Almost every one of them has a dedicated area to display Egyptian artefacts. The Hermitage, The Louvre, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the British Museum are among the biggest repositories of these antiquities.

Yet these astonishing collections are overshadowed by the objects on display at the 

Egyptian Museum , located right off the main Tahir square in the centre of Cairo. It has on display some 120,000 items, with another 150,000 stored in the basement. 

If you are interested in early Christian history in Egypt, then visit the Coptic Museum . It is a splendid mansion built in 1908 and newly refurbished, located in Old Cairo in a residential area where many Copts live. You will be amazed at the beautiful woodwork throughout the museum that illustrates the sect's typical architecture.  It has a stunning collection of medieval or early Christian art, probably the best in the world, as well as fine examples of textiles for which Coptic weavers were renowned.

The magnificent Gayer-Anderson Museum is the representation of the domestic lifestyle of the affluent in the 17th century. This house turned museum was the residence of Major R.G. Gayer-Anderson, who was an avid collector of artefacts. You will find oriental to the western style of décor and objects, making it an eclectic ensemble. It is adjacent to the Ahmad ibn Tulun mosque, one of Cairo’s most magnificent.

There are impressive museums outside Cairo. Alexandria has the Graeco-Roman Museum , opened in 1892, holds a remarkable collection dating back to the Greco-Roman (Ptolemaic) era, offering an important glimpse into the Greco-Roman civilization. Currently, this museum is under renovation but is expected to start by the end of 2020.

Another interesting museum that opened in 1997, relatively small but spacious, is the Nubian Museum at Aswan and displays many Nubia objects. It is closer to Aswan Old Cataract Sofitel Hotel. It was a superhuman international effort supported by UNESCO to Save the Monuments of Nubia that would otherwise have been submerged by Lake Nasser behind the high dam of Aswan. The Egyptian architect Mahmud al-Hakim's skills are clearly evident in its architecture, the gardens surrounding the structure. The museum is also a testimony of the men and women's love and devotion who combed the region to assemble the pieces on display there.

The biggest Museum is opening in Egypt by 2021. Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), situated less than two miles from the Giza Plateau, will house about 100,000 artefacts spanning 7000 years of Egyptian history. It will also feature the latest technology, such as virtual reality exhibits. Visiting the Grand Egyptian Museum will definitely be a highlight to any Egyptian adventure in the coming times.

Leave your systematic sensibilities back home and simply jump into the city's maddening vibe, and that is the best way you will enjoy Cairo. At your first sight as a western traveller, you will be overwhelmed , but do not let that deter you from exploring. In that chaos also the city has its own order by which it operates , and the people are hospitable to the fault since it is embedded in their culture, so relax. 

Cairo is a desert city , densely populated and expanding at an alarming rate consuming natural landscapes. It is also a contradictory city in some areas as the arid land lays on one side and the other is lush vegetation along the banks of the Nile. After Egypt’s independence from colonial rule in 1952 , Cairo was seen as the greatest city for education, culture, art, music and media within the Arab world. 

The city caters for all tastes - western Cairo  is modern and spacious, whereas Cairo's eastern side is historic and packed with many attractions. It is also grown haphazardly over the centuries , with more people inhabiting a small area; small lanes, crowded apartments, and Islamic architecture make the eastern part interesting to explore but laborious to navigate. 

South  is Coptic Cairo , an old fortified town that flourished with Romans using it as a strategic location on the Nile between Memphis and Heliopolis on the northeast. The port was known as Babylon locally and became the Christian community region in Cairo.

Central Cairo is the heart of the modern city and centred around Tahrir Square that boasts some fine 19th-century architecture. Islamic Cairo, however, is the centre of attraction; its minarets and domes, bazaars and typical of 1001 Nights stories. 

Alexandria   was the beacon for seafarers for a very long time , and therefore Alexander the Great made it his empire capital. Not much of the old glory is evident around the city today. A lot has disintegrated , and most of it has been submerged in the sea , including Cleopatra’s Palace and the city’s  ancient lighthouse . You will be able to see Alexandria’s submerged archaeological treasures right where they lay only when the proposed cutting-edge underwater museum is built nearby in the bay . Hopefully,  the excavations will reveal the tombs of Cleopatra and Mark Antony .

Alexandria had seen its share of European decadence in the 19th century when Pasha Mohammed Ali revived Alexandria’s importance as a trade port by linking it to the Nile. This era ended in the 1950s as the foreigners escaped Nasser’s revolution of Nationalism.

Alexandria’s cosmopolitan culture has distinct Mediterranean influences found in the European quarter and its typically Egyptian areas. Being a seaside town means fabulous seafood to binge on , and Alexandria capitalizes on it with its delicious dishes and vintage coffee houses . Add to this the dazzling new library , and you will have a plethora of attractions to discover in this Mediterranean port city. 

Visit the spooky Catacombs of Kom es-Shoqafa  beneath the Karmous quarter of Alexandria to see a fusion of pharaonic, Roman and Greek funerary themes reflecting the city’s diversity.

Giza , the legacy of ancient Egypt in the southwest, is where the famed ancient man-made mountains of limestone are. These iconic structures were filled with riches and served primarily as royal burial places for the deceased pharaoh , who was thought to be divine, a god-man, the offspring of a human mother and a deity. It was believed that he would ascend into the gods' eternal world after his death and live there forever. The royal burial was to guarantee a successful afterlife .

The Sphinx , a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human dated around 2500 BC, stands guard over the Pyramids at Giza and their associated queens’ pyramids, temples and tombs. These complexes consisted of the pyramid, pyramid temple, a long  causeway to a valley temple, and smaller satellite and/or queens’ pyramids. They were both cosmic staircases to the heavens and mansions of eternity. 

The famous pyramids at Giza are the products of years of experimentation. The earliest pyramids were step pyramids - Mud-brick tumuli and rectangular mastaba tombs were expanded to step (architectural structures that used flat platforms or steps), which receded from the ground up. The 3rd Dynasty architect Imhotep designed the first, largest, and most famous step pyramid at Saqqara as a tomb for the pharaoh Djoser .

In the Fourth Dynasty, Egyptians began to build true pyramids that have smooth sides. The first attempts occurred at Meidum and Dahshur under King Snefru and eventually reaching a pinnacle at Giza under Kings Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure. 

Khufu’s Great Pyramid originally stood 481 ft. high. No royal pyramids are found after the 17th Dynasty, but small pyramids adorned elite tombs at Thebes in the New Kingdom. Nubian royalty, however, made use of this form extensively; in fact, there are more pyramids in Nubia - about 255 than in Egypt - about 118.

The Pyramids are the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World to survive . The absolute vision and workmanship of people 4,500 years ago, creating structures that would be the world’s tallest until the 14th century , is pretty unbelievable. Today, even the accompanying spectacle of camel and horse rides, souvenir and soft drinks vendors, persistent beggars and the nightly Sound and Light Show does not diminish their splendour.

Docile and serene, or foaming and formidable, the Nile   was really the centre of Egypt’s existence for everything: food, irrigation, communication, transportation and governance. Every year , the Nile's flood deposited rich, fertile silt that nourished the farmers’ productive fields. Its water formed a highway north and south, provided ample fish to eat, essential minerals laden water for irrigation and plenty of mud to make bricks. Off to the edges was the Red Land, the land of desert and arid mountains – lots of sand and stone, several gold mines and the sporadic oasis. 

And because the Nile sustained a great civilization around it , it's easy to understand why so many monuments adorn the Nile banks . 

Ancient Egyptian construction created enduring testaments proving what is attainable when people put their minds—and thousands of well-organized arms, legs, and backs—to it.

The best way to experience these heritage sites is cruising on the Nile in complete comfort and luxury. As the full board river cruises make their way from Luxor to Aswan or back , it takes you to all the valley’s ancient monuments that constitute the greatest open-air museum in the world. 

These cruises offer 3-4-7-night itineraries are professionally guided (by certified Egyptologists) for daily shore excursions.

Luxor   To understand the difference between the Old Kingdom and its successor regimes in the Middle and New Kingdoms, you must visit Egypt’s ancient imperial headquarters at Luxor.

This modern-day city of Luxor in Upper Egypt was built on the ancient site of Thebes . Most visitors arrive by flight, but the overnight train from Cairo is an interesting way to make the four-hundred-mile journey. The deluxe category train leaves the main Cairo station in the evening, and passengers, after taking a tasteful meal in their rooms, retire to beds for the overnight journey, arriving refreshed at the Luxor station early the next morning.

Here, modern Egyptians blend exotic antiquity  with modern commercialism . What most people think of as Luxor is actually three distinct areas: Luxor city (including Luxor temple), the village of Karnak, and the necropolis of ancient Thebes. Hordes of foreign visitors crowd the streets, even in the sweltering summer heat.

On the West Bank of the Nile, directly across from Luxor, the famous Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, Temple of Hatshepsut, and many superbly decorated tombs attract enthusiastic tourists to explore the remnants of Egypt’s intricate funerary practices.

Howard Carter’s 1922 unearthing of King Tutankhamun’s tomb full of treasures is still one of the most internationally celebrated sites to visit.

Valley of the Kings located on the West Bank of the Nile, opposite modern Luxor, many tombs were constructed for the pharaohs of the New Kingdom west of a mountain peak with a natural pyramid shape. So far, 63 tombs have been discovered here. Most of them were raided since earlier times, but the greatest collection of paraphernalia was found in the famous tomb of King Tutankhamun.

Valley of the Queens , in antiquity known as Ta-Set-Neferu, meaning "the place of beauty", was the burial site for the wives of pharaohs of the 18th to 20th Dynasties on the West Bank of the Nile at Thebes. Post 20th Dynasty, the tombs very used as multiple burials or Hermit shelters. A lot of tombs are unfinished and without decoration or beautification, looking like caves rather than sacred grave chambers. The most impressive is that of the wife of Ramses II, Queen Nefertari , his favourite.

Karnak Temple - T he largest and most enduring is the Temple of Amun at Karnak, begun in the Middle Kingdom and augmented for the next 2,000 years with additional shrines, pylons, and columned halls. Devoted to the ancient Theban gods Amun, Mut and Khonsu , this vast complex reached its pinnacle during the New Kingdom. After the pyramids of Giza, Karnak is Egypt's most significant pharaonic site. Gradual diggings over the years have slowly uncovered the original structure of the temple complex. 

Feluccas These traditional lateen-sailing wooden boats can be hired for an afternoon lounging on the Nile or for a 2 or 3 days long journey from Aswan, en-route visiting the temples at Kom Ombo and Edfu. Feluccas have been traversing on the Nile for ages and still serve as conveyance along many stretches. Despite the high-performance motorboats available, these simple boats are favoured by tourists for sunset cruises; they allow you to experience the changing moods of the Nile while slowly sailing in blissful indolence. 

Aswan , also once known as Syene , is located on the east side of the Nile about 9.6 km north of the First Cataract, between Aswan and Khartoum has been a favourite winter town since the 19th century. It’s a pleasantly laid back and spacious town, ideal for resting and recovering from the rigours of travelling. 

The Nile is wide, languid and stunningly beautiful here, sinuously making its way down from Lake Nasser, around dramatic black-granite boulders and islands scattered with palms. Aswan’s islands, exotic souqs and riverside restaurants can keep you happy in between excursions to sites such as Abu Simbel . From Old Kingdom times, this strategically important stronghold guarded Egypt's southern border and was a base for military invasions into Nubia and Sudan. 

Aswan stands on the most captivating part of the Nile, where the desert comes right down to the water’s edge , and the river is dotted with islands. It is home to a large Nubian community, and the town’s laid-back atmosphere makes it one of the more relaxing places in Egypt to visit.

Nubia extends from southern Egypt to northern Sudan. Nubia was ancient Egypt’s backyard and entry point to Africa, south of the Sahara. Ancient Egyptians and Nubians were constantly at odds as Egypt sought to exploit quantities of gold from this region, as well as to import incense, ebony, ivory, exotic animals, and dwarfs through trade. Nubia, however, did turn around the tide by placing one of their own as Egypt’s 25th dynasty; scholars have called its rulers the black pharaohs of Egypt. Although the Nubians were on familiar terms with the ancient Egyptians and imbibed many Egyptian institutions and values, their own traditions did not phase out.

The Western Desert presents travellers the opportunity to escape Cairo's crowded sites and the Nile Valley and revel in the peace and tranquillity of the empty desert and its green oases. Since time immemorial , oases have been a welcome sight for weary and exhausted travellers ; oases contain sufficient water to allow permanent plant growth and human settlement. 

The massive depressions beneath Egypt’s Western Desert gave rise to a series of oases west of the Nile, for here , the water table is near the earth’s surface. The deserts shaped civilization as much as the Nile, creating buffer zones between Egypt and its neighbours. Egyptians ventured into the deserts mainly for raw minerals extraction, trade, or military drives.

The Western Desert, though driest and most desolate, is punctuated by the Bahariya, Dakhla, Farafra, Kharga, and Siwa Oases – the five major oases that rise like islands of greenery, where flourishing palm plantations engulf crumbling medieval towns that were once important outposts along ancient caravan routes with permanent water sources large enough to sustain substantial populations. Each oasis has different characteristics due to its diverse landscapes and level of modernization.

In the northwest, the remote Siwa is the perfect place to relax with its lush, green orchards glistening like a mirage in the surrounding barren and inhospitable desert. Over 300 freshwater springs and streams sustain this desert oasis. With its inimitable culture, hilltop citadel, Siwa is regarded by many as the best oasis in Egypt. Yet again , nature will leave you spellbound to see how the freshwater springs feed thousands of date palms and olive trees. If you truly want to see the magic of solitude , make the lonely jeep journey across the great sand sea between Siwa and Bahariyya oases. 

Relax those sore muscles in the hot springs of Bahariyya Oasis before feasting on traditional cuisine. Camp under the stars in the otherworldly White Desert , a surreal landscape  of chalk rock-formations  in Farafra Oasis, often visited on overnight safaris from the neighbouring oasis of Bahariya. Visiting the Black Desert en route. Enjoy the desert landscape and be astonished as Dakhla Oasis rises from the sands like a mirage.

Between Farafra and the beautiful Dakhla oasis , many small fertile areas growing fruit, rice , and peanuts are scattered through the dunes. Dakhla and the more built-up Kharga have the more ancient monuments to offer along with oases experience.

Egyptian Food Dining in a restaurant, try mezze, consisting of many delicious, small dishes (particularly good for vegetarians). Street Food Sold from pushcarts or in sit-down diners, Tamiya, Kushari, Fuul and shawarma are tasty, cheap and nourishing.

Shopping   There’s an endless choice of pharaonic, classical, Islamic and contemporary designs in the bazaars of Cairo, Luxor and Aswan, and oases such as Siwa. The most sort after is Khan al-Khalili in Cairo. It is Alibaba’s cave of glittering paraphernalia, filled with spices, perfumes, jewellery and souvenirs. This magical bazaar in Cairo has been selling souvenirs to visitors for thousands of years . The original Khan area's lanes are lined with shops selling everything from water pipes and handicrafts to silks and spices. 

Even though Egyptians are expert salesmen and haggling is expected , it is generally done with a great deal of charm and hospitality. Even if you do not plan on purchasing anything, they will always invite you to sit down and rest, have a tea or coffee , and a friendly conversation in whatever language you choose. The most distinctive items to buy in Egypt are a papyrus painting or a cartouche.

Note - Works of art or antiques over 100 years old are not allowed to be taken out of Egypt.

Bellydancing or Arabic dance is a centuries-old tradition of Raqs Sharqi (eastern dance) is best seen mostly at clubs visited by locals. Public performances are usually part of an evening show at a nightclub along the Pyramids Road, a large hotel or a floating restaurant on the Nile where the dancers and musicians will set your pulse racing.

Whirling Dervishes dancing born of the mystical tradition of Sufi Islam. Sufis claim that through the centuries-old elegant and mysterious twists and turns, the dancers and mystics seek to connect with the divine, with you present, surrounded by the music and the dance. Delightfully intense, colourful shows can be seen at the Wikala al-Ghouri , just south of the Al-Azhar mosque.

Mount Sinai - Mount Sinai is in the south-central part of the Sinai Peninsula. The mountain also called Jebel Musa (“the mountain of Moses”), is at the height of 7,497 feet above sea level. The mountain is a possible holy site of divine revelation in Jewish history , where God  appeared to Moses and gave him the Ten Commandments . The mountain is also revered in both Christian and Islamic traditions and see’s thousands of pilgrims every year. 

The triangular-shaped Sinai peninsula is a bridge between Asia and Africa, bounded by the Mediterranean to the north, the Gulf of Aqaba to the east, and the Red Sea to the west. 

St Catherine’s Monastery    – a site sacred to Christianity, Islam, and Judaism.

The monastery was built and fortified in the middle of the 6th century in seclusion beneath Mount Sinai . St Catherine’s Monastery is one of the oldest working Christian monasteries and the world's oldest continually operating library. 

St Catherine’s is built on the site where the burning bush appeared to Moses. However, the first construction in the 4th century AD was ordered by Empress Helena , Constantine's mother . The chapel was dedicated to the Virgin Mary initially. When the Romans departed , lawlessness ensued , which resulted in fortification around the chapel to protect the monks ordered by the Byzantine emperor Justinian I . The monastery was renamed St Catherine in the 9th or 10th century after the monks discovered the saint's intact body on a nearby mountain. The monastery was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2002.

If no other reasons fuel your wanderlust , then this point should do the trick. The beaches! Egypt’s Red Sea coastline is famed for its brilliant turquoise waters , and this is where the desert meets the sea. In the  Red Sea Riviera , you have a wide range to select from.

The favourite activities other than lounging on the beach is  Diving and Snorkelling in astonishing coral reefs. Swimming with the tropical fish and interesting shipwreck sites make the Red Sea a paradise for scuba divers and snorkellers.

Some of the best seaside spots and family activities are in eastern Egypt. - Hurghada , the oldest beach resort in Egypt , hosts over a dozen attractions to keep you engaged. Take a boat to Giftun Island or a submarine-style trip to see the world’s largest aqua-culture museum or experience desert hinterland on the five-hour quad bike safari in Hurghada , including a visit to Bedouin village . In the evenings, unwind at the Marina cafés or restaurants with lovely sea view. The fully-contained resorts of resort strip extending towards the south are a good option if you want to spend a few days lazing on the beach or by the pool.

Sharm El Sheikh , the resort town , is one of the world's top diving destinations surrounded by rich, diverse marine life habitat because of  Ras Mohammed National Park. The park is the southernmost tip of the Sinai Peninsula , where the Gulf of Suez's waters and the Red Sea meet , encompassing two islands, Tiran and Sanafir. While you are diving in the incredible Yolanda, Shark reefs or Dunraven , look for the colourful fish, barracuda, reef sharks, turtles and manta rays around you.

Apart from diving, Sharm is also a base for  overnight tours to Mt. Sinai & Saint Catherine's Monastery.

Brimming with premium hotels and excellent facilities , it makes for one of Egypt's best places to spend time with family and friends and mix mountain exploration with diving or snorkelling adventure just offshore. 

There’s also much to shop from  Sharm Old Market (also known as Sharm al-Maya) , selling colourful handicraft of the local Bedouin culture, Arabic lamps, traditional shisha pipes, and finely carved woodwork.

Dahab is a chilled-out former fishing village south of Sinai, renowned for its diving, Blue Hole - a submarine sinkhole in particular. Abound by colourful beach cafés , Dahab is also a dispatch point for camel and jeep safaris into the rugged interior. It has attracted young independent backpackers and budget travellers for its boho vibe. The accommodation around the Bedouin village of Assalah is mostly hotels, basic hotels and beach huts. Although to the south in Medina , luxury hotels are catering to premium clientele. 

Besides, you can opt to unwind in  El Gouna luxury hotels set among gorgeous mountains and crystal clear waters. Go fishing and sightseeing , or just kick back and relax on the expanse of Marsa Alam’s endless white beaches.  Marsa Alam and  Safaga are famous therapeutic sites . Safaga, especially, is possibly one of the best locations in the world for  curing psoriasis .

Egypt is a traditional country, it wise to educate yourself with their basic do’s and don’ts before you arrive. This effort will take you far with the locals in gaining their respect.  

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Is it safe to travel to Egypt? Travel advice from the UK explained

By Olivia Morelli

In light of the ongoing conflict between Israel, Hamas and Iran, there are concerns about the safety of travellers visiting nearby regions. Below, find everything you need to know about the UK advice for visiting Egypt, including the latest update from FCDO.

What does the FCDO say about travel to Egypt?

The UK Foreign Office has updated their advice on travel to Egypt following military activity and explosions in Iran, Syria and Iraq. While it doesn’t explicitly advise against travel to Egypt as a whole, it does advise caution and notes ongoing unrest in the country: “In response to events in Israel and the OPTs, a number of demonstrations have taken place in Egypt and protests have been planned, including after Friday prayers. Demonstrations could take place at short notice, with a heavy security presence in place. You should avoid large gatherings, demonstrations and protests,” says the gov.uk website .

The FCDO website also highlights the following areas as places to avoid travelling to, and reminds travellers that “travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel”. For the full advice, check gov.uk .

• Within 20km of the Egypt-Libya border
• North Sinai
• Northern part of South Sinai
• The eastern part of Ismailiyah Governorate
• Hala’ib Triangle and Bir Tawil Trapezoid
• Western Desert (the area west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions, with some exceptions)

Always check FCDO Egypt page for the latest advice, as the situation is changing rapidly.

Are flights still operating to Egypt?

At the time of publishing, flights are still continuing to run between the UK and Egypt. Typically for UK airlines, the flight path crosses over Italy, other parts of Europe and across the Mediterranean before reaching Egypt (instead of crossing over any Middle Eastern territories).

Can I cancel my holiday to Egypt?

Holidays to Egypt are operating as usual and the FCDO is not advising against all travel to the country, so cancellations might be tricky. But as the situation is continuously developing, we would advise talking to your holiday provider, airline and hotel to discuss options for postponing the trip. If the advice changes and advises against all travel to Egypt, it is likely that you would be able to cancel and get a refund without penalty.

THE JOURNAL

Travel Inspiration

3 Reasons to Visit Egypt

The Modern Travel Agency

https://www.foratravel.com/the-journal/why-egypt-now

Nothing says "bucket list" quite like Egypt. Visiting this mesmerizing destination is like stepping into a living, breathing museum, with its the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza, ancient monuments of Luxor, bustling streets of Cairo and so much more.

Read on to learn why Egypt should be your next bucket list destination, plus how your Fora Advisor can help level up your trip.

Then, connect with Fora to plan and book your Egypt getaway.

1. The country is bouncing back from the pandemic, so you have access to exclusive, private experiences you wouldn’t have otherwise

Egypt is recovering from the downturns of tourism over the last 10 years, ending in a standstill due the pandemic. But the future of Egypt travel is bright. Today, travelers to Egypt can realize their bucket list moments, minus the crowds: imagine taking pictures in front of the Pyramids and the Sphinx, without hundreds of tourists behind you. Plus, due to the lack of crowds, Egypt tours and experiences feel especially exclusive (it’s not uncommon to end up with a private tour when you booked a group one), and guests benefit from extra-personalized hospitality.

2. It’s affordable relative to the experience you're getting

Image courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh

Egypt offers all the luxuries expected on far-flung adventures, from fine dining to opulent hotel suites. But since Egypt is still bouncing back and eager to welcome tourists, hotels, tours and other experiences are far more affordable than those found in comparable locales.

For instance, in Cairo, the Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh is a surprisingly affordable paradise on the stunning shores of the Egyptian Red Sea (read our full review ). With lavish accommodations, including spacious suites and private villas, the resort’s world-class amenities include a private beach, multiple pools and an exceptional spa — for as low as $350/night during high season (yes, high season!).

3. There’s something for everyone — not just history buffs

While Egypt offers a journey through time like no other country, it’s not all about the ancient sites. Rather, this ancient jewel of Africa is a veritable home run for travelers of all types. Visitors can explore the vibrant bazaars, where rooftops beckon with craft cocktails. They can cruise the serene waters of the Nile, and opt for water sports with views of the Sinai Mountains. They can savor cuisine in buzzing restaurants with DJs spinning overlooking the Nile. Egypt-bound travelers can visit hidden sculpture gardens or spend the afternoon at an Egyptian spa. And with five-star luxury here to stay — like the Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh, which opened in late 2021 — travelers can count on the world-class hospitality only leveling up in years to come.

Bonus: Your Fora Advisor is ready to upgrade your trip to Egypt

With Egypt’s seemingly endless list of places to visit and things to do — from Luxor to the Nile to Aswan to the Pyramids of Giza — planning a trip here can be intimidating. That’s why it’s important to have someone on your side who understands the country’s full suite of offerings. This is where your Fora Advisor comes in. They can line up your itinerary with the very best recommendations for you, from the best tour guides to the best time to visit the Sphinx to the perfect Nile cruise (spoiler alert: there are tons of options).

Plus, you’ll benefit from your advisor being plugged in to the scene — they’ll know the place to pick up your Egyptian cotton scarf, for instance. They can recommend the best restaurants to top off your days of sightseeing (or spa-going, or shopping) and line up the best reservations — which you will need.

And don’t forget… hotels are kind of our thing . Your Fora Advisor will not only guide you to the best hotel and accommodation type for you — be it a standalone villa outfitted with Egyptian decor or a sky-scraping suite overlooking the Nile — but they’ll upgrade your stay with perks galore. 

Ready to travel? Connect with Fora to plan and book your dream Egypt getaway today.

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15 Reasons to Visit Egypt

By: Author Swedish Nomad

Posted on Last updated: July 2, 2018

Categories Egypt

Home / Africa / Egypt / 15 Reasons to Visit Egypt

Dreaming about pyramids, paradise beaches, interesting culture and a bustling marine life, then you should travel to Egypt!

In recent years, Egypt has been portrayed as a dangerous place to visit, but in reality, it’s only been a few incidents. But due to heavy media reports, the tourism has declined. That’s a shame because there are so many things to see in Egypt!

Today, I want to tell you about another story, and if you aren’t thinking about visiting Egypt, here are 15 reasons why you should make it your next trip!

Once known as the city of knowledge and crossroad to the world. A historic city that was founded by Alexander the Great himself around 300 years BC. Alexandria was famous for housing one of the world’s largest libraries with over 500 000 ancient books.

Sadly the library was destroyed in an earthquake in the 14th century. But it’s still worth a visit to indulge the Egyptian culture and explore some historic sites.

Search for Treasures in the Khan al-Khalili

One of the Middle East’s largest bazaars and a paradise for those who love bargains. If you’re good at negotiating I’m sure you can find plenty of lovely crafts here. Khan al-Khalili is located in Cairo.

An ancient city mainly populated by ethnic Berbers nowadays. Siwa is famous for the oracle that is located in the temple dedicated to the god Amon. The area has been populated at least since 9000 years BC, which make Siwa a really old settlement and an important historic site.

Longing for a nice place to soak up the sun? Then Marsa Alam is a place for you. It’s a smaller resort town than Hurghada and Sharm el Sheik, but it’s really nice. I was there for 2 weeks and enjoyed an all-inclusive resort. The snorkeling and diving here is amazing and you can also go on day trips to old temples and pyramids.

Me at the beach in Marsa Alam

During ancient times, Luxor was known as Thebe and was the political capital of Egypt during a certain time period. As from the New kingdom, approximately from 1550 to 1080 BC it also served as the religious capital.

Luxor is one of Egypt’s most visited places and tourists come here to admire the mighty temple of Karnak and many other temples. Luxor is also known as the world’s largest open-air museum.

Luxor is also home to the famous Valley of the Kings, and to go here is absolutely a must thing to do when you visit Egypt.

Chat with the locals

Western Media has given Egyptian men a bad rep for a long time now, and sure there are some cultural differences that western people aren’t used to, but you shouldn’t be afraid of speaking with the locals.

So, I’m not a girl but I know a few girls who’ve been traveling in Egypt, and some found Egyptian men to be a little too up-close, but in general most were friendly towards them. And I have the same experience, the locals I met were all very interested in hearing more about my culture and were also eager to tell me more about their culture.

Sure, at the markets people wanted me to buy things and walked after me, but it wasn’t scary, it was just a bit unusual, but that’s one way to do business in Egypt, and it’s also an interesting thing to experience. We travel to experience and see different things than back home, so instead of thinking of it as a bad thing, embrace it and smile.

Hieroglyphs

The old Egyptian hieroglyphs have intrigued me even since I was a little child and saw the old pyramids and pharaohs.  I think it’s really cool to see them in person, and it’s quite interesting how advanced their way of thinking and writing was.

The Sahara Desert

Most of you have probably heard about the mighty Sahara Desert. It’s a cool experience, and you can either walk or go for a 4×4 ride in the desert. Another exciting thing you can try is sandboarding.

Egyptian cuisine

Food is always a good reason to travel, and when you’re in Egypt you shouldn’t miss out on the Egyptian cuisine. You might have tried some of the dishes since many are common in other Arabic countries as well, but there are some dishes that you need to eat while you visit Egypt!

Don’t miss out on these delicious and unique dishes:

• Ful Medames
• Ta’meya   (Egyptian Falafel)

Pyramids of Giza

One of the wonders of the world. The mysterious pyramids of Giza are without a doubt Egypt’s best-known tourist attraction and with all rights. Most of you have probably seen some documentaries and such on TV back at home, but to see it in person – Priceless!

Ancient temples built by Ramses II, to honor the gods Amun, Ra-Horakhty och Ptah, but it’s also raised Ramses himself to a “god” and Abu Simbel is one of the world’s most incredible temples! The Facade is dominated by huge statues that are 20 meters tall.

A place you shouldn’t miss out when you visit Egypt!

A lovely resort town with both luxurious hotels and more modest ones. The marine life is amazing here, and the beaches are nice too. If you’re looking for a nice vacation Hurghada is a great place, and the prices have never been cheaper.

Bedouin Villages

Want to experience the nomadic life for real? Bedouins live in the desert, and travel often. It’s a simple way of living and it’s very interesting to stay with the bedouins and learn more about their culture.

Snorkeling & Diving

If you like to snorkel and explore life underwater, then Egypt is one of the best places in the world. While I’m not a diver myself, I love animals, but since I’m afraid of water I opted for a submarine tour instead and got to see Sea Turtles, Manatees, colorful fishes and much more.

There are many tours available, but if you’re experienced you can rent equipment and head out on your own or rent a private boat.

The bustling capital of Egypt is probably the best place to go if you want to experience the culture and meet a variation of locals. It’s also here in Cairo that you can visit the Pyramids of Giza, a mighty experience that shouldn’t be missed out.

In Cairo, you can also visit markets and try different Egyptian cuisine. Another great reason to visit Egypt!

Is Egypt safe to visit?

Well, in short, absolutely. But, of course, you should listen and stay updated with local news. Even though the political situation has calmed down, you should always be wary of the current situation, as in any other country for that matter.

Egypt is safe in general, especially in tourism areas. Most political protests happened in Alexandria or Cairo, and the resort areas hardly noticed anything. When I was in Egypt the political situation was unstable, but I never felt unsafe, and the daily life continued as usual.

The current situation today is way more stable, especially since  Abdel Fattah el-Sisi  took over as president. Don’t fear Egypt as a destination because it’s highly unlikely that something would happen during your visit.

However, there are some things you should know before you visit Egypt

• Women and Men should dress modestly. Egypt is a Muslim country, so please respect their culture. It’s okay to wear shorts and swimwear on the beaches, but please don’t when you walk around the city, it’s disrespectful and shouldn’t be done anywhere in the world.
• Don’t follow strangers home if you go to nightclubs (probably something you shouldn’t do anywhere else either)
• Use official taxi and tour companies
• Be firm when saying no to things you don’t want, but don’t be hostile.

Flight tickets to Egypt and hotel

• Find the cheapest flight tickets .
• Book a hotel in Egypt

If you follow these rules, you will be met with respect and you’ll have a great time exploring Egypt.  Personally, I’m eager to go back and explore more.

It’s a huge country and there are so much to see and do! 

Tamiza Rahman

Wednesday 12th of December 2018

Thanks for the nice write up.I am planning to visit Egypt this month.It was always in my bucket list.I am planning to travel by train from Cairo to Aswan to save some money.Is it safe to do night journey by train ?

Monday 15th of January 2018

Yes! Egypt is beautiful! I went to Alexandria university so I was living in Alexandria for 5 years and just left Egypt for good a few months ago. I’m back to my hometown now but I’m looking forward to go back & visit a few more places I haven’t visited like Sharm el sheikh and mount sinai.

Saturday 29th of April 2017

A great article, as well as good and user friendly comments. It's refreshing for people who have already been to put the whole political situation in a clearer perspective . I am now even more determined to go. Thank you all.

Saturday 15th of April 2017

Thank you for saying nice things about my beautiful country. Came 8 years ago and never left ? Welcome back to Alexandria anytime! Safe trip to new destinations. Best regards Katrine from Norway ??

Alexander Waltner

Sunday 16th of April 2017

Thanks Katrine :) Egypt is beautiful and doesn't deserve all the negative publicity it has been given in recent years! I'm looking forward to go back, and I hope I will have a private Norwegian guide to the best spots in Alexandria when I go back to Egypt! :)

Friday 14th of April 2017

Very well written! Been living in Egypt for 8 years now. Take care on your trips! Looking forward to follow you :) Katrine. (Norwegian) ?

8 Best Reasons Why You Should Visit Egypt Now!

Have you been thinking of visiting Egypt but been afraid because of what you hear on the news? Well, that’s definitely understandable. I’ve been fascinated with the wonders of ancient Egypt for at least 10+ years now. I was even planning a trip back in 2008 but then I lost my job and turmoil erupted in the area. I had to scrap the idea and I’ve been upset about it ever since. Such a shame to put your once in a lifetime plans on hold.

When I saw my friend Leslie’s amazing Instagram photos last December of her trip to Egypt I almost didn’t believe it. So I was beyond thrilled when she suggested writing an article all about her trip for my blog. I’m so excited to share her 8 best reasons why you should visit Egypt now. My hope is that you read it and take it all in before you make a decision to go or not to go. Don’t be swayed by all negative press Egypt receives in the media. Make up your own mind.

Leslie Marciniak is a writer, wanderluster, recovering web designer and retro pop culture geek. She rediscovered her long lost travel addiction in 2015 and has since ventured to Cuba, England, Iceland (twice!), Egypt, and her first travel crush: NYC (sooo many times). Her favourite part of traveling, aside from the locations themselves, are all the interesting and amazing people she always meets.

If you too want to guest post on The Savvy Dreamer blog please don’t hesitate to contact us using the contact form here ! We’d love to hear from you.

8 B est R easons W hy Y ou S hould V isit Egypt N ow!

O ne of the many responses I got from people when I told them I was going to Egypt alone in November 2017 was, “Why Egypt?”

I wish I could give a clear answer. It was a culmination of things. A fascination I had with Egypt in a segment of an Ancient History class in high school. It was the mystique and wonder of the pyramids. And a genuine curiosity. But why now? In 2017? Life pushes you in unexpected directions at times. Egypt was calling me in the same way Iceland called me a couple years ago. It was all I talked about all year, long before I booked the ticket. 2017 was coming to an end. I had to do it and I had to do it now .

So, that’s my intentionally vague backstory: How I ended up on a plane to Egypt all by myself! Now here are 8 reasons why you should do it too, because it was one of the most memorable and bewildering experiences of my life.

N o, really. There is so much here to see that it honestly can’t all be done in one short trip. No two cities are alike and it’s very easy to feel like you are traveling through different countries at times. The warm Mediterranean sea air and relaxed vibe of Alexandria is almost a culture shock after spending time just a few hours south in busy hectic Cairo . The drive to Abu Simbel from Aswan takes you through the vast desert planes of the Sahara , where there is absolutely nothing on the horizon for miles. Luxor is a modern and lush tourist town packed with rich history and incredible sites. All of this rests along the Nile , where the majority of Egypt’s population resides. I never made it to any of the popular Red Sea resort towns, but if diving and beautiful beaches are your thing, Egypt has that waiting for you too.

The Pyramids

Y ou can’t go to Egypt and not see the Pyramids of Giza . It was so important to me that I booked a room at a bed and breakfast across the street from the pyramids for my first two nights before joining with my tour group. I hadn’t even checked into my room yet and ran to the rooftop patio and – boom – there they were. Right in front of me. One of the coolest moments ever and the best way to really let it settle in as to where on this planet I am right now. They are stunning to see in person and writing about them or taking pictures doesn’t do any of it justice. You really need to just go. And pay the small extra fee to walk inside the Great Pyramid. It’s an intense journey that you will be happy you accomplished.

O h-em-gee I will miss Egyptian food most of all. I quickly grew to love everything I tried and had less and less desire for Western fare the longer I was there. The Egyptian falafel is not like the falafels you’re getting at the supermarket at home. They make them very differently in Egypt with fava beans instead of chickpeas and it is sooo good. Whether it be for breakfast or lunch, I think I somehow worked falafels in to my meal at least once a day. The other winner for me was Feteer . Which is like an Egyptian pizza. However, you can also have it as a dessert. It’s essentially layers of flaky pastry crust with all your various ingredients cooked in the middle, minus the tomato sauce. The desert version involved powdered sugar and custard and I’m still craving it horribly. It’s served on a big platter and cut into small squares and it is so good, you will cry eating that stale pizza slice on your lunch break when you get back home.

I heart Egyptians. Guess what? They heart us too. I read beforehand that being stopped to have your picture taken may be a usual occurrence as a foreigner. At almost every tourist site I went to, it was inevitable that a gaggle of school kids, or an excited family, would shyly approach me and ask for a picture. It was cute and bewildering and I said yes every time. At every hotel, a mere mention that I was Canadian would ignite a cheerful and often shocked response. The level of warmth and hospitality from hotel staff and locals was something I hadn’t experienced since I visited Cuba a few years ago. Egyptians know why tourism is down and they are genuinely happy to see you. Show them some kindness in return.

Your Money is Going to go FAR

I ’m Canadian. I’m used to traveling and watching my dollar evaporate before I get off the plane. It makes me stingier than others and little less eager to spend. Right now in Egypt our dollar goes so far, I couldn’t even understand it at times. Seriously. It was only in my last 3 days that I finally wrapped my head around the conversion rate. If you met me in my last days in Egypt, I probably tipped you quite well. I went on a tea-shopping spree at a local grocery store. I went back to Khan El-Khalili and finally spent money and bought things. Don’t be stingy here. There is no need. I ate well, saw every site I wanted to see and didn’t come close to going over my budget. Their tourism industry is needlessly suffering. Come to Egypt, live like a Queen, accidentally spend less than you would elsewhere, while receiving so much more in return. This is one of the best reasons why you should visit Egypt now.

I think along with the pyramids, a sail on the Nile is something you really must experience if you find yourself in Egypt. There is something very special about it and just knowing that this is where you are right now on this planet is just… ahh. Words can’t properly describe it. A felucca is a traditional wooden sailboat still widely used in Egypt. Spending 24 hours on one was definitely a highlight of the trip for me. If you are lucky to go at night, take a look up at the stars. I totally geeked out as I noticed the constellation Orion , in a different position than I’m used to seeing at home. It’s the little things like this, that would remind me how I really was on an entirely different part of the globe. Enjoy those moments and don’t always feel like you need to take pictures. Some things really are best when just experienced in the moment.

Having Shish Tawouk overlooking the Nile and the Sahara desert

The Weather

T he best time to visit Egypt is November-April. The summer months can be brutally hot, averaging 35-40C with no clouds in sight. In the winter you’ll find perfect, dry, mid-20s weather that will have your friends and family drooling (it will also make you not want to go home if you were originally escaping the icy winter blahs). The sun is always shining and it almost never rains. It’s a desert climate, so humidity won’t be an issue for you either. Leave your jacket and umbrella at home. But do remember to pack a sweater, as the nights can get chilly during these months.

L ast but not least, are all the incredible historic ancient sites to see in Egypt. While the main draw for most people are the pyramids, by the end of our group tour, I found new places to love and miss once I returned home. Abu Simbel and Karnak Temple were the two biggest hits for me and places I would love to return to. Wandering alone around the massive columns in Karnak at sunset, after most of the other tour groups had left, was a special moment I will take with me for a very long time. It is truly an incredible place and an absolute must if you are visiting Egypt. Having an expert guide show you these places and explain in detail what you’re seeing adds so much to the experience too. Especially when a slew of dumb questions come to mind. If this doesn’t convince you to visit Egypt now I don’t know what will.

(All of the above and then some)

E gypt is a wild and often intense place, with a rich and astounding history. The scenery, the sites, the food, the people… You will see things you’ve never seen before and learn more than your sun-soaked brain can handle at times. But it is all worth it. When I think about how nervous I was to go at first, it makes me sad because I know this is how a lot of people feel right now. This is why tourism is down over there. This is another great reason to visit Egypt now. If you’re hesitant, book with a reputable tour company (I went with Intrepid and have no complaints) and let them handle all the fine details so you can just simply enjoy your vacation and have one of the best experiences of your life.

Intrepid – I took the 8 day “ Egypt Adventure ” tour, but they offer many different highly rated tours. I personally recommend this tour if you want a quick taste of what Egypt has to offer.

Giza Pyramids Inn – Where I stayed for two days prior to joining up with my group tour. The hospitality here was next-level wonderful. They picked me up from the airport for free, breakfast was beyond filling and the rooftop view of the pyramids is insane.

If anyone has any questions (I know I did before I finally decided to go), feel free to contact me via Instagram or my infrequently updated blog . 🙂

Shukran! Happy Travels!!!

Oh wow, thank you so much Leslie for this amazing recap of your trip to Egypt. Reading this article has definitely revived my desire to plan my dream trip there. Your 8 best reasons why you should visit Egypt now make complete sense to me. I’ve been talking about it to my friends and family constantly and I don’t want to stop!!! All the sites look so amazing and the food is fabulous too? I know I want to go as soon as I can.

What do you think of the idea of visiting Egypt? Would you go? Would you feel safe? Have you been recently? What has been your experience? I’m very curious to hear other opinions so please share in the comments below.

And remember to sign up for our newsletter to never miss an amazing story like this and others. And you’ll also get some freebies and chances to win future contests and giveaways. Our current contest to win an iPhone X ends this Wednesday so enter here !

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40 Comments

I have wanted to visit Egypt ever since I was 10 years old! Life has taken me in different directions and every time I’ve tried to get there it hasn’t worked out. But I can’t even imagine seeing the pyramids for the first time from that rooftop. I’m pretty sure I’m going to ball like a baby when I see them, haha. This was a great post. Thank you for sharing!

Oh I feel the same. I hope we both get there someday. It will be an experience of a lifetime ?

I’ve never been but would absolutely love to go! 🙂

That’s wonderful to hear Jennifer. I hope you do end up going and have a fabulous time.

You have a totally different view of how Egypt is. Thanks for the share!!!

Oh really? What experience did you have there?

I’ve never been there before but I have been having some ridiculous imaginations of what the place is like

Great pictures! I would LOVE to visit Egypt

I really do hope you end up going. Thanks for checking out the article 🙂

You had me at “it’s Egypt!” It’s definitely on my travel bucket list.

Oh Yes! Me too! I really need to start planning it.

Egypt has been in every person’s history book in the world. Maybe every one of us has started making travel bucket lists since we read about the pyramids and mummies in school. How lucky you were to visit ! I will try to visit before I get old 😛

Oh yes, I’ve been fascinated by Egypt for quite some time. I’m so happy my friend got to experience it and I can’t wait for my own adventure.

Egypt has been a top destination for me since I was a little girl, and this post didn’t help my wanderlust! For me it was always the history and the sites, but now I want to do that AND eat that amazing sounding food! I didn’t know falafel was different there!

Oh I’m so happy to hear your wanderlust has been revived. I hope you get to go soon.

Ok I”m convinced now. Egypt is going on the list right after Africa, Greece, New Zealand and Peru 🙂 What a great and informative article. I loved it.

Awesome. Impressive list already 🙂

I couldn’t agree more!! Egypt is awesome and I cannot wait to go back! I only managed to visit Cairo, Mansoura and an Egyptian village close by where I attended a wedding (one of a kind, unique experience). I really need to go back for Luxor, Aswan and Alexandria of course (duh I’m Greek)! Oh I can talk about Egypt for days. No matter what anyone else says, Egypt is a must and I never ever for a second felt threatened or unsafe.

That’s amazing to hear Niki. I was wondering how you felt when you were there. I hope you get to go back soon and see all the sites you missed the first time.

Wow! This post definitely made me wish to see Egypt! When I was younger I watched lots of Discovery shows about Egypt and was always mesmerized by the history and sights. I hope one day I do visit too.

I remember as kid watching a lot of shows too. I was too mesmerized and that’s what sparked my interest too.

I have always wanted to go to Egypt to see the pyramids. I don’t know if I ever will but I’m glad I have this post to rely on if I have the privilege of going. I’m glad you had a a good time!!

I hope you do end up going there.

Egypt is definitely on my bucket list! The history and the culture is so amazing just reading or watching a video about it, I cannot imagine it in person.

I know right? It must be something else entirely to see it in person. Hope you make it there soon 🙂

If only it’s not difficult for us Asians to get a visa, I would have saved up travel funds and go to Egypt. I’ve only been to Asian countries but who knows, I might be able to go there someday too!

I hope that changes and you’ll be able to go. It would be so sad for you to miss out.

You’ve convinced me! I need to go here and I’ll add it to my list!

Yas!!! So happy to hear that.

Amazing. I still haven’t been to Egypt yet, but I know I will. I enjoyed reading this, some really nice insights and great reasons to visit. I’m really looking forward to trying the food, it sounds wonderful!

I’m looking forward to reading about it when you do Matt. Unless I beat you to it 😉

Thank you for having me as a Guest writer, Kasia! Egypt exceeded my expectations. I had fun writing this. I hope you make it there soon! 🙂

Oh I take my hat to you Leslie for writing such a great article. Thank you so much. This makes me want to go to Egypt even more. Now on to trying to convince my family that it’s cool ?. Egypt has been calling my name for a long time and I can’t wait to get there.

This was a great read, Egypt is high on my bucket list. Awesome photos

Thank you so much. It’s a great place and it would be a shame if people stay away from visiting it.

Holy crap, I have always been interested in Egypt, at one point when I was younger it was the only place I was interested in traveling to. I love the photo you posted of the person in comparison to the pyramid, so unreal.

Oh yes that photo just shows us how massive these structures are. Almost unbelievable human beings build them, right? It must be something to see in person for sure.

One day I will surprise my partner with this trip

OMG yes! Do it girl!

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6 Reasons Why You Should Visit Egypt Now

Tahrir Square is only approximately 850 meters from the hotel property at where I am currently staying; and the mood is clearly different now than it was greater than four years ago…

…which leads me to give you 6 reasons why you should visit Egypt now — or, at least, as soon as possible:

1. Egypt is Currently Safe in Most Areas

Let me dispel the fears and concerns right now: if you plan on visiting Egypt, you will most likely be safe — even safer than in parts of the United States. While no place on earth is safe 100 percent of the time, I can tell you from my personal experience that I have not once in the greater than one week in which I have visited Egypt have I felt unsafe — not once .

Yes, I hear explosions going on right now outside the window of my hotel room prior to midnight — from the pyrotechnics which light up the local areas of the sky in euphoric celebration around Cairo upon the arrival of the weekend. I hear loud music blasting from 25 stories below amidst the honking of horns from cars mired in traffic on the streets. Boats float along the Nile River in displays of brightly colored lights with revelers aboard. Party time, anyone?

If you plan on seeing the pyramids and the Sphynx, the tombs in the Valley of the Kings — including that of Tutankhamun, who is more popularly known as King Tut — the Luxor Temple, the Karnak Temple, or the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, you will need to go through some sort of security protocol to gain entrance. If you plan on relaxing on the shores of the Red Sea in Hurghada and soak up some rays, you can do so without concern, as many resort properties screen visitors and their belongings. Want to go out on the town in Cairo? No one is stopping you from having fun.

Do not be alarmed of the military and law enforcement officers brandishing rifles and guns at security checkpoints on the roads. Realize that you will most likely go through screening and metal detectors at popular tourist attractions and at major lodging chains. You will not feel like you are in a police state, though; and the checks are minimal at best in terms of your inconvenience.

2. Egypt is Not Crowded With Tourists

“Hello, my friend” was the usual cheerful greeting at virtually all of the hotel or resort properties where I stayed.

“How is everything? Is there anything you need?”

I either politely placed my requests — which were happily fulfilled and then some — or I would simply say la shukran , which generally means no thank you .

“Where you from, my friend? Germany? England?”

“The United States of America.”

“America!” That exclamation was usually coupled with a startled and refreshingly surprised look, followed by a smile. “We do not get very many Americans here.”

That surprised me at first; but then I noticed that most of the other visitors were not American no matter where I went. In Hurghada, for example, many of them were from Russia or Germany, usually on tours. In fact, many advertisements and store banners were in Russian in Hurghada.

Primarily because of the concern for safety, the tourists just are not visiting Egypt as they had in the past — especially Americans. There was usually no wait to go inside of one of the three famous pyramids. The temples were not crowded. I had my time with Tutankhamun only mere inches from his mummified body with no strangers in the tomb with me. Fewer people and virtually no waiting in line? You better get here before others find out this secret.

3. Favorable Exchange Rate

Your dollar — or whatever form of currency you use — will go further in Egypt due to the favorable exchange rate. I received 7.58 Egyptian pounds to the dollar.

4. Low Cost of Goods and Services

If all of the above is not enough to entice you to visit Egypt, how about the low cost of goods and services? You can easily secure a night at a resort for fewer than $50.00. Don’t believe me? Look up the Hilton Hurghada Resort through the current summer sale  as one example, where you can secure a room for $48.75 per night through the middle of July — and that includes all taxes and fees but it does not include the 30 Egyptian pounds it costs per night to park your car if you bring one. Can’t go before then? $74.75 afterwards is still not a bad deal.

Need fuel for your car? 2.6 Egyptian pounds per liter roughly equates to $1.40 per gallon; and if your car can take the lower grade — you will be advised against this — fuel can cost as low as 1.6 Egyptian pounds per liter or approximately 90 cents per gallon.

Consider Lynn Canyon Instead of Capilano Park When in North Vancouver

Food, souvenirs, services — all can be remarkably inexpensive; and do not forget that you can bargain and haggle as well for even better prices.

5. The People are Friendly and Helpful

I have personally received impeccable service in many areas in Egypt from local people who are only too willing to assist you in whatever you need — and some of them will even refuse a gratuity if you attempt to tip them. In fact, I have arguably received amongst the best service I have ever experienced from the staff at the  Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa .

They are certainly the opposite of aggressive touts, who can be annoying and irritating. Here are nine tips on how to deal with aggressive touts when visiting Egypt .

6. You Can Help the Economy

Egypt is filled with the same treasures as it has had for centuries; and they are not going anywhere anytime soon. They are spread around the country, which is quite large; so ensure that you incorporate travel time between destinations in your itinerary. The drive from Cairo to either Hurghada or Sharm El Sheik can take approximately five hours, for example…

…and the economy in Egypt is not at its best right now. Prior to January 2011, tourism was reportedly the second-largest earner of foreign currency  — as well as a significant source of employment for Egyptians. Although it may be paltry, your tourist dollars can help the Egyptian economy get back on its feet, so to speak, as every little bit helps.

The sooner you get to Egypt is the sooner you can help its economy grow.

As I said, no place on earth is completely safe. Violence and natural disasters can erupt virtually anywhere at any time. My experience in Egypt suggests to me that you have nothing about which to be concerned if you want to visit — and now is a great time to do so for the aforementioned list of reasons…

…and if you have any questions to which I have not yet addressed, I will be more than happy to answer them as best as I possibly can.

All photographs ©2015 by Brian Cohen.

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Good to hear. I an visiting Egypt in November and December for two weeks. I have been looking forward to this trip for a while. Do you need to pick up a visa before you enter the country or can you still get one at the airport? Great article. Thanks

Thank you for reminding me of a very important piece of information, Michael Lambert : yes, you can still easily get your visa at the airport after landing. It can be purchased from one of several currency exchange booths for $25.00.

May 15, 2015 was the date set for visitors requiring to obtain visas to Egypt in advance; but that has been postponed indefinitely.

My husband & I are going to visit Egypt when we’re on our round the world trip later this year. This just made me even more excited even though it’s one of the top destinations on our route.

I hope that you and your husband have a great time stopping off in Egypt later this year, Lynn A Girard . Please let me know of your experiences there, which I hope will be part of a lifetime of wonderful memories…

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World News | 5 takeaways from the global negotiations on a…

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World News | 5 takeaways from the global negotiations on a treaty to end plastic pollution

FILE – A person walks past an art installation outside a United Nations conference on plastics on April 23, 2024, in Ottawa, Ontario. (Adrian Wyld/The Canadian Press via AP, File)

FILE – United Nations Environment Programme Executive Director Inger Andersen and Environment and Climate Change Minister Steven Guilbeault take their seats at a news conference April 23, 2024 in Ottawa, Ontario. (Adrian Wyld/The Canadian Press via AP, File)

FILE – Minister of Environment and Climate Change Steven Guilbeault leaves a news conference at the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee with staff, April 23, 2024, in Ottawa, Ontario. (Adrian Wyld/The Canadian Press via AP, File)

FILE – A person carries food in a plastic bag past an art installation outside the a United Nations conference on plastics on April 23, 2024, in Ottawa, Ontario. (Adrian Wyld/The Canadian Press via AP, File)

By JENNIFER McDERMOTT (Associated Press)

OTTAWA, Ontario (AP) — The world’s nations  finished a round of negotiations  early Tuesday on a treaty to end plastic pollution and made more progress than they have in three prior meetings.

Coming into Ottawa, many feared the effort would stall to craft the first legally binding treaty on plastics pollution, including in the oceans. The last meeting was  marred by disagreements  and there was much left to do.

But instead, there has been a “monumental change in the tone and in the energy,” said Julie Dabrusin, a Canadian parliamentary secretary.

It was the fourth  Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution  session. For the first time, the nations began negotiating over the text of what is supposed to become a global treaty. They agreed to keep working between now and the next and final committee meeting this fall in South Korea.

“We are working toward a world where we won’t have plastic litter everywhere in our ecosystems,” Jyoti Mathur-Filipp, the executive secretary of the committee, said in an interview. “The energy is there, the will is there and I know we will get an instrument by the end of the year.”

Here are some of the biggest takeaways from the meeting:

NATIONS ARE NEGOTIATING

The talk shifted in Ottawa from sharing ideas to negotiating treaty language. Finally, said Santos Virgílio, Angola’s chief negotiator. Time was wasted in previous meetings, Virgílio said, but this time many arguments had been exhausted and it was time to find solutions.

“It’s big, because we have been going round and round during these sessions without showing direction,” he said in an interview. “But at least now, people are showing, OK, they have goodwill.”

LIMITING HOW MUCH PLASTIC IS MADE IS ON THE TABLE

Most contentious is the idea of limiting how much plastic is manufactured globally. Currently, that remains in the text over the strong objections of plastic-producing countries and companies and oil and gas exporters. Most plastic is made from fossil fuels and chemicals.

Graham Forbes, head of the Greenpeace delegation in Ottawa, said massively reducing plastic production is the most important thing the treaty can do because it’s impossible to end plastic pollution otherwise.

Plastic production continues to ramp up globally and is projected to double or triple by 2050 if nothing changes. Plastic producers and chemical companies want a treaty that focuses on recycling plastic and reuse, sometimes referred to as “circularity.”

TREATY WORK WILL CONTINUE UNTIL THE NEXT MEETING

The negotiators agreed to keep working on the treaty in the coming months. Expert working groups will collect information and expertise to inform the negotiations at the final meeting in South Korea in the fall.

Without this preparation work between meetings, it would’ve been daunting to complete the negotiations this year.

The topics they’ll work on in between sessions are one indication of their priorities for the final round of talks. Plastic production won’t be a focus for the working groups. Instead they will focus on how to finance the implementation of the treaty, assess the chemicals of concern in plastic products and look at how products are designed.

Environmental groups were frustrated that production cuts won’t be part of the work between now and the fall meeting.

MANY BORE WITNESS TO PLASTIC POLLUTION

Waste pickers have been on the frontlines of trying to solve plastic pollution for decades, said John Chweya, a 33-year-old waste picker representing Kenyan waste pickers.

They collect, sort, recycle and sell plastics that would otherwise pile up or be burned. They’re exposed to hazardous materials and can suffer from respiratory illnesses, skin infections and other diseases. They want a treaty that recognizes the role they play and helps waste pickers transition to safer jobs.

“We’ve given this problem that this treaty is trying to solve our lives,” Chweya said.

In Malawi, Tiwonge Mzumara-Gawa sees plastic bags littering the lands where goats and cows graze and people burning waste behind their homes because there is no waste collection. She believes it’ll take a global agreement for the national government to do more to address plastic pollution. Mzumara-Gawa is a campaigner for the Christian charity Tearfund.

Frankie Orona told negotiators their decisions affect peoples’ lives and health. Indigenous land, water and air are being contaminated as fossil fuels are extracted and plastic is manufactured using hazardous chemicals, said Orona, executive director of the Texas-based Society of Native Nations.

“We’re here to make sure our voices are being heard,” he said. “Our communities have been disproportionately impacted for decades, Indigenous and black and brown communities.”

NEGOTIATORS AIM TO FINALIZE TREATY THIS FALL

They plan to finish negotiating in South Korea so the treaty can be adopted next year at a diplomatic conference. It’s an extremely short timeline for negotiations, meant to match the urgency of the problem.

Dabrusin, of Canada, said she’s more hopeful than ever that an ambitious treaty to end plastic pollution will be adopted on schedule. Over the past week, she said she has heard from so many people that this is what they want — from businesses and environmental advocates to waste pickers and residents of communities littered with plastic.

“We’re hearing many voices coming together,” she said. “That’s a beautiful moment when you can see that synergy, that it’s economic, it’s environmental, it’s for health reasons. And there is that momentum right now.”

The Associated Press’ climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org .

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Inside billionaire Ankur Jain, Erika Hammond’s wild Egypt wedding: Private jets, pyramids and celebs

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Billionaire Ankur Jain and former WWE wrestler Erika Hammond tied the knot Friday in an over-the-top ceremony that took place in front of the Great Pyramids in Egypt.

“We’re New Yorkers and there’s something so special about being in a completely different world environment,” Jain, the founder and CEO of tech company Bilt Rewards, told People following their nuptials.

“So we decided, our wedding is about having a moment together to celebrate the new beginning, having a really special party with our friends somewhere where you’re in a different world.” (Jain had originally suggested getting married in space, but Hammond was not keen on the idea.)

While the location of their wedding was unique, it wasn’t the only unorthodox detail about their celebrations: The couple had no bridal party and no wedding cake — although they did serve a birthday cake from Milk Bar.

“I had no idea what the napkins looked like or what the table setting looked like,” Hammond, 32, told People.

Jain, 34, added, “We’re not traditional wedding people. Why do you have to spend $20,000 on flowers? It doesn’t make sense.”

The couple worked to make their dream wedding with an event company called Vertex.

The one detail they were certainly involved in was the transportation of their wedding guests from the safari they brought them on in Africa back to Cairo for their ceremony.

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Ahead of their welcome party, their private Egypt Air flight was halted by the South African government, leaving them in a huge bind. After the bride and groom stayed up hours trying to get their guests to Egypt, they eventually pulled it off — but it made their welcome event kick off three hours late.

“We partied until 5 a.m. having just the best opening night,” Jain recalled to People April 25. The event, which was held at the Muhammed Ali Palace, had a “Modern Cairo” theme and featured belly and fire dancers.

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Jain and Hammond’s 130-person guest list was impressive as well. Some of the biggest celebrities celebrated their love, including Lance Bass and his husband, Michael Turchin, Robin Thicke and his wife, April Love Geary, “Shark Tank” investor Kevin O’Leary and his wife, Linda, influencer Serena Kerrigan, several politicians and prominent businesspeople.

Thicke, 47, surprised guests with a performance, while Bass, 44, gave an impromptu show of “Bye, Bye, Bye” near the end of the night after a stunning fireworks show over the pyramids.

“We had the best time. It was so special,” Jain gushed to the outlet. “When the fireworks went off, it was one of the most spectacular moments. I was so emotional, I couldn’t even put it into words.”

The newlyweds met at Rumble Boxing, where Hammond is a founding member. She was also an instructor there when they first interacted.

A few years later, they hit it off and got engaged in November 2022.

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Middle East Crisis Israel Appears to Soften Stance in Cease-Fire Talks

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• Destroyed buildings in Rafah on Monday. Associated Press
• Relatives and supporters of Israeli hostages protest in Tel Aviv on Monday. Ohad Zwigenberg/Associated Press
• Palestinians flee after a strike in Nuseirat in central Gaza. Agence France-Presse — Getty Images
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• Looking at a damaged building in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip on Monday. Hatem Khaled/Reuters
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• Children at a makeshift movie theater set up among the tents in Rafah on Sunday. Haitham Imad/EPA, via Shutterstock
• Israeli soldiers resting outside the border with southern Gaza. Amir Cohen/Reuters

Israel is open to a truce involving an initial release of 33 hostages, officials say.

Israel’s latest offer would accept fewer hostages to be freed during the first phase of a new truce in Gaza, according to three Israeli officials, offering a hint of hope for cease-fire negotiations that could restart as soon as Tuesday.

For months, Israel had demanded that Hamas release at least 40 hostages — women, older people and those who are seriously ill — in order to secure a new truce. Now the Israeli government is prepared to settle for only 33, according to the officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity in order to discuss the sensitive matter.

The change was prompted partly by the fact that Israel now believes that some of the 40 have died in captivity , according to one of the officials.

Antony J. Blinken, the U.S. secretary of state, said at the World Economic Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Monday that Israel had made an “extraordinarily generous” offer and that Hamas alone stood in the way of a deal. David Cameron, the British foreign minister, said at the same conference that the offer included a sustained 40-day cease-fire and the release of potentially thousands of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the Israeli hostages.

Sameh Shoukry, Egypt’s foreign minister, said at the conference that he was “hopeful” about the latest cease-fire proposal, but did not say what it involved or who had proposed it.

“The proposal has taken into account the positions of both sides,” Mr. Shoukry said, adding that “we are waiting to have a final decision.”

The shift has raised expectations that Hamas and Israel might be edging closer to sealing their first truce since a weeklong cease-fire in November, when Hamas released 105 captives in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners. A senior Hamas official, Izzat al-Rishq, said on social media on Monday that Hamas was studying a new Israeli proposal, but did not say what the proposal was.

Hamas and its allies captured roughly 240 Israelis and foreigners in their attack on Oct. 7, which prompted Israel to go to war in Gaza. More than 130 hostages are believed to still be held in Gaza, but some are thought to have died.

Negotiations over a new pause, mediated by Egypt and Qatar, have stalled for months over disagreements about the number of hostages and prisoners who should be exchanged in a future deal. Another obstacle has been whether Israel would allow civilians from northern Gaza who fled the Israeli invasion to return to their homes, and how many would be permitted to do so.

The length of a cease-fire has also been a key stumbling block. Hamas wants it to be permanent, while Israel wants another temporary pause so that it could still send troops into Rafah, the last major Gazan city under Hamas control, though one where more than a million displaced Palestinians have sought shelter. Far-right members of Israel’s governing coalition have threatened to bring down Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government if the war ends without Hamas’s total defeat.

A mid-ranking Israeli delegation is planning to fly to Cairo on Tuesday to restart talks mediated by Egypt, but only if Hamas also agrees to attend, according to two of the Israeli officials. A senior Hamas official said that a delegation was already in Cairo on Monday.

At the economic forum in Saudi Arabia, Mr. Cameron, the British foreign secretary, said something else must happen for the conflict to end: “The people responsible for Oct. 7, the Hamas leadership, would have to leave Gaza.”

Vivian Nereim and Edward Wong contributed reporting from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

— Patrick Kingsley and Adam Rasgon reporting from Jerusalem

Biden speaks to the leaders of Egypt and Qatar to press for Hamas’s agreement on a new cease-fire.

President Biden spoke on Monday with the leaders of Egypt and Qatar as he sought to increase pressure on Hamas to accept a deal that would result in a temporary cease-fire in the war in Gaza and the release of some of the hostages held there.

According to a statement from the office of President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt, he and Mr. Biden discussed the negotiations and Egypt’s efforts to broker a cease-fire. They also reiterated their support for a two-state solution, discussed the importance of containing the conflict to the region and emphasized their opposition to a military escalation in the city of Rafah in southern Gaza, which Israel seems poised to invade.

Mr. Biden also spoke on Monday with Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, the emir of Qatar. According to the White House, Mr. Biden urged the Qatari leader “to exert all efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas,” saying that “this is now the only obstacle” to an immediate cease-fire.

Mr. al-Sisi and Mr. al-Thani have been prime intermediaries with Hamas through months of fitful negotiations to reach a deal to halt the hostilities, and Mr. Biden hopes they will prod the group’s leader, Yahya Sinwar, to accept the U.S.-brokered proposal on the table. On Sunday, Mr. Biden spoke with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel.

Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House press secretary, expressed a hopeful view of the prospects for an agreement. “In recent days, there has been progress in talks,” she told reporters at the White House.

Like other American officials, Ms. Jean-Pierre said that Hamas, not Israel, was the obstacle to an agreement.

“The onus is indeed on Hamas,” she said. “There is a deal on the table, and they need to take it.”

— Peter Baker reporting from Washington

Blinken meets with Arab officials to discuss Gaza and postwar plans.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Arab officials on Monday in Saudi Arabia about the war between Israel and Hamas and the difficult issues it has created, from humanitarian aid to hostages. Mr. Blinken plans to travel to Jordan and Israel on Tuesday.

After landing in Riyadh, the Saudi capital, shortly after dawn, Mr. Blinken met with Prince Faisal bin Farhan, the foreign minister of Saudi Arabia, and then with foreign ministers and a top foreign policy adviser from five other Arab nations in the Persian Gulf that, along with Saudi Arabia, form the Gulf Cooperation Council. Prince Faisal was also part of that second meeting. On Monday night Mr. Blinken met with Saudi Arabia’s crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman.

The State Department listed the cease-fire and hostage issues first in the summary it released of Mr. Blinken’s one-on-one meeting with the prince. The two “discussed ongoing efforts to reach an immediate cease-fire in Gaza that would secure the release of hostages held by Hamas,” the department said.

The two diplomats also talked about greater regional integration and “a pathway to a Palestinian state with security guarantees for Israel,” the summary said. That was a reference to negotiations over a broad deal that would involve the United States, Saudi Arabia, Israel and Palestinian representatives agreeing to terms that would result in the creation of a Palestinian state and greater diplomatic recognition for Israel in the region.

Mr. Blinken planned to meet with Arab and European officials in a group later on Monday to talk about plans for rebuilding Gaza, even though Israel is still carrying out its war there and has not stepped back from its difficult — and perhaps impossible — goal of fully eradicating Hamas.

Saudi Arabia is hosting a three-day meeting of the World Economic Forum, and top Arab officials, including Mr. Blinken’s diplomatic counterparts, are attending the event in Riyadh. The gathering includes senior ministers from Qatar and Egypt, the two Arab mediators in multiple rounds of talks over a potential cease-fire between Israel and Hamas .

“The quickest way to bring this to an end is to get to a cease-fire and the release of hostages,” Mr. Blinken said in an onstage talk with Borge Brende, president of the World Economic Forum. “Hamas has before it a proposal that is extraordinarily generous on the part of Israel. And at the moment, the only thing standing between the people of Gaza and a cease-fire is Hamas.”

“I’m hopeful they will make the right decision and we can have a fundamental change in the dynamic,” he added.

Mr. Blinken and other top aides of President Biden have also been trying to push for a long-term political solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which is where the broader deal comes in. In a call meant to pave the way for Mr. Blinken’s trip, his seventh to the region since the war began, Mr. Biden and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel spoke by phone on Sunday afternoon for nearly an hour.

The two leaders discussed “increases in the delivery of humanitarian assistance into Gaza,” according to a White House statement released after the call, and Mr. Biden repeated his warning against an Israeli ground assault on Rafah in southern Gaza. He also reviewed with Mr. Netanyahu the negotiations over a hostage release.

In their best-case scenario, the Biden administration envisions Saudi Arabia and perhaps a few other Arab nations agreeing to normalize diplomatic relations with Israel. In exchange, Saudi Arabia would receive advanced weapons and security guarantees, including a mutual defense treaty , from the United States and a commitment for U.S. cooperation on a civilian nuclear program in the kingdom .

For its part, Israel would have to commit to a concrete pathway to the founding of a Palestinian nation, with specific deadlines, U.S. and Saudi officials say.

“I think it’s clear that in the absence of a real political horizon for the Palestinians, it’s going to be much harder, if not impossible, to really have a coherent plan for Gaza itself,” Mr. Blinken said at the public talk on Monday.

Prince Faisal said Sunday that Saudi officials hoped to discuss concrete steps toward creating a Palestinian state during Mr. Blinken’s visit to Riyadh. Calling the war and humanitarian crisis in Gaza “a complete failing of the existing political system,” he told a news conference that the kingdom’s government believes that the only solution is “a credible, irreversible pathway to a Palestinian state.”

Before the war started last October, U.S. and Saudi officials were in intense discussions to reach an agreement on the terms of such a proposal. For those negotiators, a big question at the time was what Israel would agree to. Since the war began, the Americans and the Saudis have publicly insisted that Israel must agree to the existence of a Palestinian state.

But Israeli leaders and ordinary citizens have become even more resistant to that idea since the Oct. 7 attacks, in which the Israeli authorities say that Hamas and allied gunmen killed about 1,200 people and took about 240 people as hostages. Israel’s retaliatory military offensive has killed more than 34,000 Palestinians, most of them civilians, including thousands of children, say officials from the Gaza health ministry.

Vivian Nereim and Zolan Kanno-Youngs contributed reporting.

— Edward Wong traveling with Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken

Deadly Israeli strikes hit residential buildings in Rafah, Palestinian news media say.

Deadly Israeli airstrikes flattened concrete buildings overnight in the crowded southern Gaza city of Rafah, according to news agencies, which published video on Monday of rows of body bags containing what Palestinian officials said were victims of the strikes.

The Reuters news agency said the strikes in Rafah, which Israel seems poised to invade , killed 20 people. The Palestinian news media said the death toll was at least 24. The Gaza Ministry of Health said 34 people were killed in the Gaza Strip during the previous 24 hours, but it did not specify how many of them were killed by the strikes in Rafah.

Asked for comment on the strikes, the Israeli military issued a statement on Monday saying that its “fighter jets struck terror targets where terrorists were operating within a civilian area in southern Gaza.”

More than one million Gazans have been crowding into shelters and tents in Rafah to seek safety from almost seven months of Israel’s military offensive. Israeli officials have said they will soon send ground troops into Rafah, the last Gazan city Israel has not invaded, in order to eliminate Hamas battalions there, an operation that the Biden administration has warned against because of the risk to civilians.

Palestine TV — a channel backed by the Palestinian Authority, which administers parts of the Israeli-occupied West Bank — said the strikes had hit residential buildings in Rafah. One survivor, carrying a baby she said had been pulled from the rubble, spoke to a Reuters video journalist.

“The entire world is seeing what’s happening to us,” the woman, Umm Fayez Abu Taha, said. She said the child appeared to be uninjured, but that her parents had been killed.

“Look at us with some compassion, with some humanity,” Ms. Abu Taha continued. “This is all we ask for, we’re not asking for much just end the war, nothing more.”

— Liam Stack reporting from Jerusalem

Hamas fires a barrage of rockets into Israel from Lebanon.

Hamas’s military wing said on Monday that it had launched a salvo of rockets from Lebanon into northern Israel, an apparent attempt by the group to signal that it is still capable of striking within Israel’s borders even as it studies the latest proposal for a cease-fire in Gaza.

The Qassam Brigades, Hamas’s military wing, said in a statement that it had targeted an Israeli military position in Kiryat Shmona, the largest city in Israel’s far north, with a “concentrated rocket barrage” from southern Lebanon. The Israeli military said in a statement that most of the roughly 20 launches that crossed the border had been intercepted, and that it had responded by striking the source of fire. There were no injuries or damage, the military said.

Though Hamas is based in Gaza, many of its leaders are exiled in Lebanon , where the group has a sizable presence and operates largely out of Palestinian refugee camps. Since the Hamas-led terror attack on Oct. 7 prompted Israel to go to war in Gaza, Hamas has occasionally launched rocket attacks into northern Israel from within Lebanon’s borders, though its ally Hezbollah, the Lebanese militant group, has launched far more. Both groups are backed by Iran. Israel has also targeted Hamas figures in Lebanon in deadly strikes.

Walid al Kilani, Hamas’s spokesman in Lebanon, said the attack was “the minimum duty” given Israel’s continued attacks in Gaza. “We know that Hezbollah is doing its duty and more, but the battlefield requires everyone to participate,” Mr. Kilani said.

The launches on Monday, although muted in their impact, highlighted Hamas’s continuing ability to threaten Israel with rocket fire despite more than 200 days of a devastating Israeli air and ground offensive that has decimated the group’s military capabilities in Gaza.

Mohanad Hage Ali, a Beirut-based fellow with the Carnegie Middle East Center, said the attack was likely an attempt by Hamas to signal that it was “still part of the fight.” While it was largely symbolic, it could also be a means to apply pressure amid the Gaza cease-fire negotiations, he said.

Data compiled by the online website Rocket Alert — which tracks warnings of rocket launches using Israeli military figures — shows that there were just 37 alerts in April in response to detected rocket fire from Gaza, compared to around 7,300 in October at the onset of the war. More than six months into the conflict, the data shows a significant drop-off in the number of warnings of rockets from Gaza.

Alerts indicating rocket fire from Lebanon, however, have remained largely steady, the data shows. Most of those are launched by Hezbollah, but Hamas continues to launch attacks from Lebanon with Hezbollah’s blessing.

Amin Hoteit, a military analyst and former brigadier general in the Lebanese army, said the latest attack was a sign of the “integrated front of operations” among Hamas, Hezbollah and other Iran-backed groups in the region .

Hwaida Saad and Jonathan Rosen contributed reporting.

— Euan Ward reporting from Beirut, Lebanon

Israeli officials believe the International Criminal Court is preparing arrest warrants over the war.

Israeli officials increasingly believe that the International Criminal Court is preparing to issue arrest warrants for senior government officials on charges related to the conflict with Hamas, according to five Israeli and foreign officials.

The Israeli and foreign officials also believe the court is weighing arrest warrants for leaders from Hamas.

If the court proceeds, the Israeli officials could potentially be accused of preventing the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip and pursuing an excessively harsh response to the Hamas-led Oct. 7 attacks on Israel, according to two of the five officials, all of whom spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to publicly discuss the matter.

The Israeli officials, who are worried about the potential fallout from such a case, said they believe that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is among those who might be named in a warrant. It is not clear who might be charged from Hamas or what crimes would be cited.

The Israeli officials did not disclose the nature of the information that led them to be concerned about potential I.C.C. action, and the court did not comment on the matter.

Arrest warrants from the court would probably be seen in much of the world as a humbling moral rebuke, particularly to Israel, which for months has faced international backlash over its conduct in Gaza, including from President Biden , who called it “over the top.”

It could also affect Israel’s policies as the country presses its military campaign against Hamas. One of the Israeli officials said that the possibility of the court issuing arrest warrants had informed Israeli decision-making in recent weeks.

The Israeli and foreign officials said they didn’t know what stage the process was in. Any warrants would require approval from a panel of judges and would not necessarily result in a trial or even the targets’ immediate arrest.

Karim Khan, the court’s chief prosecutor, has previously confirmed that his team is investigating incidents during the war, but his office declined to comment for this article, saying that it does not “respond to speculation in media reports.”

Mr. Netanyahu’s office also would not comment, but on Friday the prime minister said on social media that any intervention by the I.C.C. “would set a dangerous precedent that threatens the soldiers and officials of all democracies fighting savage terrorism and wanton aggression.”

Mr. Netanyahu did not explain what prompted his statement, though he may have been responding to speculation about the arrest warrants in the Israeli press.

He also said: “Under my leadership, Israel will never accept any attempt by the ICC to undermine its inherent right of self-defense. The threat to seize the soldiers and officials of the Middle East’s only democracy and the world’s only Jewish state is outrageous. We will not bow to it.”

Based in The Hague, the I.C.C. is the world’s only permanent international court with the power to prosecute individuals accused of war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity. The court has no police force of its own. Instead, it relies on its 124 members , which include most European countries but not Israel or the United States, to arrest those named in warrants. It cannot try defendants in absentia .

But warrants from the court can pose obstacles to travel for officials named in them.

The Hamas-led raid last October led to the killing of roughly 1,200 people in Israel and the abductions of some 250 others, according to Israeli officials. The subsequent war in Gaza, including heavy Israeli bombardment, has killed more than 34,000 people, according to Gazan officials, caused widespread damage to housing and infrastructure, and brought the territory to the brink of famine.

The Israeli assault in Gaza has led the International Court of Justice, a separate court in The Hague, to hear accusations of genocide against the Israeli state and has spurred a wave of protests on college campuses in the United States.

If the I.C.C. does issue arrest warrants, they would come with deep stigmatization, placing those named in them in the same category as foreign leaders like Omar al-Bashir, the deposed president of Sudan, and Vladimir V. Putin, the Russian president, who was the subject of a warrant last year tied to his war against Ukraine.

The I.C.C.’s focus on individuals rather than states differentiates it from the International Court of Justice, which settles disputes between states.

The I.C.C. judges have ruled that the court has jurisdiction over Gaza and the West Bank because the Palestinians have joined the court as the State of Palestine.

Mr. Khan has said that his team will be investigating incidents that have occurred since Oct. 7 and that he will be “impartially looking at the evidence and vindicating the rights of victims whether they are in Israel or Palestine.”

Mr. Khan’s office has also been investigating allegations of war crimes committed during the 2014 war between Israel and Hamas; one of the officials who spoke on the condition of anonymity believes the new arrest warrants would be an extension of that investigation.

Hamas and the Israeli military did not respond to requests for comment. The office of Yoav Gallant, the Israeli defense minister, declined to comment.

In general, Israeli officials say that they fight according to the laws of war and that they take significant steps to protect civilians, accusing Hamas of hiding inside civilian areas and forcing Israel to pursue them there. Hamas has denied committing atrocities on Oct. 7, saying — despite video evidence to the contrary — that its fighters tried to avoid harming civilians.

Marlise Simons , Gabby Sobelman and Myra Noveck contributed reporting.

— Ronen Bergman and Patrick Kingsley The reporters spoke to Israeli and foreign officials.

World Central Kitchen plans to resume working in Gaza.

World Central Kitchen said on Sunday that it would resume operations in Gaza with a local team of Palestinian aid workers, nearly a month after the Israeli military killed seven of the organization’s workers in targeted drone strikes on their convoy.

Israeli military officials have said the attack was a “grave mistake” and cited a series of failures , including a breakdown in communication and violations of the military’s operating procedures.

The Washington-based aid group said that it was still calling for an independent, international investigation into the April 1 attack and that it had received “no concrete assurances” that the Israeli military’s operational procedures had changed. But the “humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire,” the aid group’s chief operating officer, Erin Gore, said in a statement .

“We are restarting our operation with the same energy, dignity, and focus on feeding as many people as possible,” she said.

The aid group said it had distributed more than 43 million meals in Gaza so far and that it had trucks carrying the equivalent of nearly eight million meals waiting to enter the enclave through the Rafah crossing in the south. World Central Kitchen said it was also planning to send trucks to Gaza through Jordan and that it would open a kitchen in Al-Mawasi, a small seaside village that the Israeli military has designated as a “humanitarian zone” safe for civilians, though attacks there have continued.

Six of the seven workers killed on April 1 were from Western nations — three from Britain, one from Australia, one from Poland and one with dual citizenship of the United States and Canada. The seventh was Palestinian. They were killed in back-to-back Israeli drone strikes on their vehicles as they traveled toward Rafah after unloading food aid that had arrived by sea.

The attack prompted World Central Kitchen to immediately suspend its operations in Gaza and elicited outrage from some of Israel’s closest allies.

The World Central Kitchen convoy’s movements had been coordinated in advance with the Israeli military, but some officers had not reviewed the coordination documentation detailing which cars were part of the convoy, the military said.

Some 200 aid workers, most of them Palestinians, were killed in Gaza between Oct. 7 and the attack on the World Central Kitchen convoy, according to the United Nations. A visual investigation by The New York Times showed that, well before the World Central Kitchen attack, six aid groups in Gaza had come under Israeli fire despite sharing their locations with the Israeli military.

The episode forced World Central Kitchen to decide between ending its efforts in Gaza or continuing, “knowing that aid, aid workers and civilians are being intimidated and killed,” Ms. Gore said in the statement.

“Ultimately, we decided that we must keep feeding, continuing our mission of showing up to provide food to people during the toughest of times,” she said.

At a memorial in Washington for the World Central Kitchen workers on Thursday, the group’s founder, the celebrity chef José Andrés, said that there were “many unanswered questions about what happened and why,” and that the aid group was still demanding an independent investigation into the Israeli military’s actions.

The seven aid workers had “risked everything to feed people they did not know and will never meet,” Mr. Andrés said. “They were the best of humanity.”

— Anushka Patil

Arab ministers suggest ways to ‘force peace’ amid Israel’s refusal to recognize a Palestinian state.

At a conference in Saudi Arabia’s capital on Monday, senior diplomats from around the world appeared to agree on one thing: The pathway to a durable peace between Israel and the Palestinians is the creation of a Palestinian state.

But with Israel’s refusal to recognize a Palestinian state, three Arab foreign ministers posited how best to proceed, with Ayman Safadi of Jordan presenting the bluntest proposal among them. The international community, he said, should find a way to “force peace” against the will of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel.

“If we come up with the best plan ever, and all of us in the international community agree that this is the plan to go forward, and then Netanyahu and his government say no, what happens then?” Mr. Safadi said during a World Economic Forum panel discussion in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, with the foreign ministers of Egypt and Saudi Arabia. “Will he face consequences?”

He added, “The party that is responsible for denying Palestinians, Israelis and the whole region peace must be held accountable.”

Israel’s foreign ministry declined to comment, and the prime minister’s office did not respond to a request for comment.

Both before and during this war in Gaza, which began after the Hamas-led attack on Israel on Oct. 7, Mr. Netanyahu has rebuffed calls for the creation of a Palestinian state.

Analysts say that the attack, in which about 1,200 people were killed and about 240 people taken captive, according to the Israeli authorities, has made it even more unlikely that the Israeli government would agree to such a path. Israeli officials have said that they are trying to eradicate Hamas.

“There is a contrary move, an attempt to force, ram down our throats, a Palestinian state, which will be another terror haven,” Mr. Netanyahu said this month.

Polling shows that a majority of Israelis oppose creating a Palestinian state.

In the Biden administration’s plan for resolving the underlying conflict — and end a war in which Israel’s military has killed more than 34,000 Palestinians, according to officials from the Gazan Health Ministry — it envisions Saudi Arabia agreeing to normalize diplomatic relations with Israel.

In exchange, Saudi Arabia would receive advanced weapons and security guarantees, including a mutual defense treaty from the United States and U.S. commitment for cooperation on a civilian nuclear program in the kingdom .

For its part, Israel would have to commit to the founding of a Palestinian nation, with specific deadlines, U.S. and Saudi officials say.

“In the absence of a real political horizon for the Palestinians, it’s going to be much harder, if not impossible, to really have a coherent plan for Gaza itself,” Antony J. Blinken, the U.S. secretary of state, said on Monday during the conference in Riyadh.

On Sunday at the same event, the Saudi foreign minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, said that the only solution was “a credible, irreversible pathway to a Palestinian state.”

He added, “We need to move from talk to action, to concrete steps, and it can’t be left up to the warring parties.”

Prince Faisal implied that diplomats could maneuver around an Israeli refusal, referring to “mechanisms within the toolbox of the international community that can overcome the resistance of any party.”

“If we make that decision, the pathway will unfold before us, even if there are those that will try to stop it,” he said. “There are levers clear, there are levers hidden, that can push us in that direction.”

Mr. Safadi, the Jordanian foreign minister, said that the challenge Arab states had faced while trying to resolve the conflict was that “we don’t have a partner in Israel now.”

“Do we allow Netanyahu to doom the future of the region to more conflict, war and destruction — or do we do what it takes to force peace?” he said.

Speaking on the same panel, Sameh Shoukry, Egypt’s foreign minister, said that if the international community made a “categorical” commitment to creating a Palestinian state, there were “points of leverage that can fulfill that requirement.”

“We have the mechanisms, but is there the political will to utilize it?” he asked.

— Vivian Nereim reporting from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

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South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem defends her account of killing own dog in new book

South Dakota governor and Republican vice presidential contender Kristi Noem on Friday responded to a news report about a section of her forthcoming book where she describes killing her 14-month-old dog.

“We love animals, but tough decisions like this happen all the time on a farm,” she said in a post to X above a headline from The Guardian , which obtained a copy of Noem's upcoming book, “No Going Back.”

The Guardian's article describes a section of Noem's book, set for release next month, in which she recounted shooting her dog after deciding it was “less than worthless” and “untrainable.”

In her account, Noem grabbed her gun and led the dog, named Cricket, to a gravel pit.

“It was not a pleasant job, but it had to be done. And after it was over, I realized another unpleasant job needed to be done,” Noem wrote.

She then went on to kill a family goat, which she called “nasty and mean.” Noem also led the goat to a gravel pit, where she said her first shot wounded but did not kill the animal. She got another shell for her gun and killed the goat, according to the book.

Noem wrote that her daughter seemed confused when she came home from school, asking, “Hey, where's Cricket?”

NBC News has not obtained Noem's book or independently verified the section reported by The Guardian.

Noem was lambasted Friday on social media; some said they were “ horrified ,” while others posted pictures of their dogs .

The Biden campaign p osted p hotos of the president walking with the family dog Commander, who has had numerous biting incidents , and Vice President Kamala Harris cuddling a dog.

Noem is widely viewed as a top contender to be Trump's running mate. She is in her second term as South Dakota governor, and she previously served as the state's lone representative in the U.S. House.

Megan Lebowitz is a politics reporter for NBC News.

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Hamas ‘reviewing Israel’s latest Gaza ceasefire proposal’

Islamist group release new video apparently showing two hostages as UN warns famine thresholds will be breached within six weeks

Hamas has said it is studying the latest Israeli counterproposal regarding a potential ceasefire in Gaza, a day after media reports said a delegation from Egypt had arrived in Israel in an attempt to jumpstart stalled negotiations.

The signs of renewed truce talks come as the UN warned that “famine thresholds in Gaza will be breached within the next six weeks” unless massive food assistance arrives.

On Saturday Hamas also released a new video that appeared to show two Israeli hostages who have been held in the Gaza Strip since the 7 October assault on southern Israel.

The video is similarly filmed to previous hostage videos made public by the Islamist group. The two men, identified as Keith Siegel, 64, and Omri Miran, 47, speak individually in front of an empty background. They send their love to their families and ask to be released.

Miran was taken hostage from his home in the community of Nahal Oz in front of his wife and two young daughters.

Siegel, who is a dual US citizen, was taken captive along with his wife from another border town. She was later released during a brief November truce.

At one point Siegel breaks down crying as he recounts celebrating Passover with his family last year and expressing his hope that they will be reunited.

Aid groups say Gaza’s already catastrophic humanitarian conditions would be worsened by an invasion that Israel has vowed to carry out against Hamas battalions that remain in Rafah.

Rafah, on the border with Egypt, is crowded with hundreds of thousands of Palestinians displaced by nearly seven months of war between Israel and Hamas. The area is regularly bombed. Hospital officials said strikes in Rafah and elsewhere killed more than 12 people overnight.

Among the dead were an entire family, their relative Mohammed Yussef said. “Nobody left: the father, the mother, a girl and two boys” were killed when their house was targeted, he said.

Elsewhere in Rafah, people searched the rubble of homes that Abed al-Aziz Barhum said were “bombarded without prior warning”. He appealed to “all Arab people to support us against occupation and help us reach a ceasefire”.

Khalil al-Hayya, the deputy head of Hamas’s political arm in Gaza, said it had “received the official Zionist occupation response to the movement’s position, which was delivered to the Egyptian and Qatari mediators on 13 April”.

In a statement, Hayya said Hamas “will study this proposal” before responding. Hamas has previously insisted on a permanent ceasefire, which Israel rejects.

Egypt, Qatar and the US have been unsuccessfully trying to seal a new truce deal in Gaza ever since a one-week halt to the fighting in November, when 80 Israeli hostages were exchanged for 240 Palestinians held in Israeli prisons.

There has been “noticeable progress in bringing the views of the Egyptian and Israeli delegations closer”, said al-Qahera News, which is linked to Egyptian intelligence services.

In early April Hamas had said it was studying a proposal, after talks in Cairo, and al-Qahera reported progress. Days later Israel and Hamas accused each other of undermining negotiations.

As talks drag on, dozens of people in Gaza die every day, according to figures from the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory.

The war began with Hamas’s unprecedented attack on 7 October, which resulted in the deaths of about 1,170 people in Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures.

Vowing to destroy Hamas, Israel’s retaliatory offensive has killed at least 34,388 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry. At least 32 additional deaths are among the latest toll released on Saturday, it said.

An international summit will take place on Sunday in Saudi Arabia and will have a strong focus on the war, including the humanitarian situation, organisers said. The US secretary of state, Antony Blinken, will be among leaders attending the World Economic Forum special meeting, they said.

Israel’s military said on Saturday that its aircraft had hit more than 25 militant targets over the previous day.

It estimates that 129 hostages seized by militants on 7 October are still being held in Gaza, including 34 who are dead, says the military.

Israeli demonstrators have intensified protests for their government to reach a deal that would free the captives, accusing the prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, of prolonging the war.

In its report on Friday, the UN’s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said “the only way to halt famine” is by “massive and consistent food assistance that can be delivered freely and safely”.

OCHA says rising temperatures are exacerbating Gaza’s sanitation crisis, and an infant girl has reportedly died in Rafah from extreme heat.

The defence minister, Yoav Gallant, said this month that Israel planned to “flood Gaza” with aid, but the OCHA report cited continued “access constraints”.

A Royal Navy support ship has sailed from Cyprus to house hundreds of US army personnel building a jetty for aid sent by sea, a British defence source said on Saturday.

The Gaza war has led to increased violence between Israel and Iran’s proxies and allies, in particular the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah along the border with Lebanon.

Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon killed three people on Saturday, including two members of Hezbollah, the movement and official media said.

The violence has fuelled fears of all-out conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, which last went to war in 2006.

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