Egypt is a timeless destination where ancient wonders meet vast deserts and vibrant marine life. This captivating country, steeped in millennia of history, offers an unparalleled travel guide through its magnificent historical sites, breathtaking landscapes, and unique cultural experiences. From the iconic Pyramids of Giza to the tranquil waters of the Nile River and the vibrant Red Sea coastline, Egypt invites you to explore its natural wonders and delve into its rich past. Discover the best places to visit in Egypt and plan your unforgettable journey.
1. Pyramids of Giza & Sphinx
The Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx are arguably the most iconic tourist attractions in Egypt and truly global natural wonders. These monumental ancient structures, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu, stand as a testament to the ingenuity of ancient Egyptian civilization, a must-see for any traveler.
Location: Giza Plateau, Cairo, Egypt.
Best time to visit: October to April for cooler, more comfortable weather for exploration. Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Activities on offer:
Marvel at the sheer scale of the Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx.
Take a camel ride or horseback riding tour around the Giza Pyramids for a classic desert experience.
Explore the interior of one of the pyramids (extra fee applies).
Witness the Sound and Light Show in the evening for a dramatic historical presentation.
Accommodation:
Marriott Mena House, Cairo (Offers direct pyramid views)
Pyramids View Inn (Budget-friendly with rooftop views)
Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel & Spa
2. Karnak Temple
Located in Luxor, the mighty Karnak Temple Complex is one of the largest ancient religious sites in the world. Dedicated to the Theban Triad, particularly the god Amun-Ra, its colossal columns, towering obelisks, and intricate carvings make it a profound historical site and a vital part of things to do in Luxor.
Location: East Bank of Luxor, Egypt.
Best time to visit: October to April for mild weather. Early morning to avoid heat and crowds.
Activities on offer:
Walk through the Avenue of the Sphinxes leading to the temple entrance.
Explore the Great Hypostyle Hall with its 134 massive columns.
Visit the sacred lake and the various smaller temples within the complex.
Attend the Sound and Light Show in the evening for an immersive cultural experience.
Accommodation:
Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor
Steigenberger Nile Palace Luxor
Jolie Ville Hotel & Spa Luxor
3. Valley of the Kings
On the West Bank of Luxor, the Valley of the Kings is the burial ground of pharaohs and powerful nobles of the New Kingdom, including Tutankhamun. Its intricately decorated tombs offer a unique glimpse into ancient Egyptian beliefs and artistry, making it an essential historical site to explore.
Location: West Bank of Luxor, Egypt.
Best time to visit: October to April. Go early in the morning to beat the heat and crowds.
Activities on offer:
Descend into several open tombs to admire the well-preserved hieroglyphs and colorful frescoes.
Visit the tomb of Tutankhamun (requires an extra ticket).
Explore the Visitor Center to understand the history and excavation of the Valley of the Kings.
Combine with a visit to nearby Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut and Colossi of Memnon.
Accommodation:
Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa
Hotel Nefertiti
Pavillon Winter Palace
4. Nile River Cruise
A Nile River Cruise is an iconic and relaxing way to experience the heart of Egypt, floating past ancient temples, local villages, and lush green banks. Typically sailing between Luxor and Aswan, it offers a unique perspective on the country’s timeless beauty and a convenient way to visit multiple historical sites.
Location: Nile River, typically between Luxor and Aswan.
Best time to visit: October to April for pleasant temperatures.
Activities on offer:
Relax on deck while watching daily life along the Nile River.
Visit key temples directly accessible from the river, such as Edfu and Kom Ombo.
Enjoy onboard amenities, fine dining, and entertainment.
Experience the peace and tranquility of sailing on a traditional felucca around Aswan.
Accommodation:
Nile River Cruise (various luxury ships available, e.g., Sanctuary Sun Boat IV)
Oberoi Philae Nile Cruise
Sonesta St. George I Nile Cruise
5. Abu Simbel Temples
The colossal Abu Simbel Temples are two massive rock-cut temples in southern Egypt, relocated to save them from flooding by the Aswan High Dam. Dedicated to Pharaoh Ramesses II and his queen Nefertari, they are among the most impressive and breathtaking places in Egypt, showcasing grand ancient architecture.
Location: Southern Egypt, near the Sudanese border, on the shore of Lake Nasser.
Best time to visit: October to April. Early morning is best if traveling by road, or by special convoys.
Activities on offer:
Marvel at the gigantic statues of Ramesses II guarding the main temple.
Explore the intricate hieroglyphs and carvings inside both temples.
Learn about the remarkable UNESCO-led effort to move the temples.
Witness the sun’s alignment twice a year illuminating the inner sanctuary (specific dates).
Accommodation:
Seti Abu Simbel Hotel
Eskaleh Nubian House (in nearby Aswan for overnight stay)
(Most visitors come on day trips from Aswan, so limited direct accommodation).
6. Alexandria
Alexandria, Egypt’s second-largest city, is a historic port city on the Mediterranean coast with a distinct European flair. Founded by Alexander the Great, it was once a beacon of knowledge in the ancient world, and now offers Roman and Greco-Roman historical sites, cultural experiences, and coastal charm.
Location: Northern Egypt, on the Mediterranean Sea.
Best time to visit: May to September for warm weather, ideal for coastal activities. October to April for cooler temperatures suitable for exploring historical sites.
Activities on offer:
Visit the Library of Alexandria, a modern tribute to the ancient library.
Explore the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, a unique Roman burial site.
See Pompey’s Pillar and the Roman Amphitheater.
Stroll along the Corniche and enjoy fresh seafood.
Accommodation:
Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefano
Hilton Alexandria Green Plaza
Tolip Hotel Alexandria
7. Hurghada
Hurghada is a popular Red Sea resort town famous for its stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities. It’s a fantastic destination for sun-seekers, water sports enthusiasts, and those looking to explore the underwater natural wonders of Egypt.
Location: Red Sea Governorate, Eastern Egypt.
Best time to visit: April to May and September to November for ideal weather and water temperatures.
Activities on offer:
Diving and snorkeling among colorful coral gardens and diverse marine life.
Enjoying various water sports like windsurfing, parasailing, and jet skiing.
Relaxing on the golden beaches and enjoying resort amenities.
Taking boat trips to nearby Giftun Island or Mahmya Island.
Accommodation:
Dana Beach Resort
Steigenberger Aldau Beach Hotel
Titanic Palace
8. Sharm el-Sheikh
Sharm el-Sheikh, located on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, is another premier Red Sea resort city. Known for its luxurious resorts, clear waters, and spectacular coral reefs, it’s a top destination for diving, snorkeling, and beach relaxation, offering a vibrant beach life experience.
Location: South Sinai Governorate, Sinai Peninsula.
Best time to visit: March to May and September to November for optimal weather for beach and water activities.
Activities on offer:
World-class diving and snorkeling in Ras Mohammed National Park and Tiran Island.
Relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Naama Bay or Soho Square.
Enjoying desert safaris and quad biking adventures.
Exploring the vibrant nightlife and dining scene.
Accommodation:
Rixos Sharm El Sheikh
Baron Resort Sharm El Sheikh
Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh
9. Siwa Oasis
The Siwa Oasis is a remote and enchanting desert oasis in the Western Desert of Egypt, known for its unique Berber culture, lush palm groves, and natural springs. It offers a tranquil escape, ancient ruins, and a distinct cultural experience far from the bustling cities, showcasing Egypt’s natural wonders.
Location: Western Desert, Matrouh Governorate, Western Egypt.
Best time to visit: October to April for cooler temperatures, ideal for desert exploration.
Activities on offer:
Bathing in natural hot and cold springs like Cleopatra’s Bath.
Exploring the ancient mud-brick fortress of Shali.
Desert safaris (dune bashing) and sandboarding in the Great Sand Sea.
Visiting the Temple of the Oracle of Amun, once visited by Alexander the Great.
Accommodation:
Adrère Amellal (Eco-lodge)
Siwa Shali Resort
Ghaliet Ecolodge & Spa
10. White Desert National Park
The White Desert National Park is a surreal natural wonder in the Farafra Oasis depression, famous for its chalk-white rock formations sculpted by wind into fantastical shapes. Camping under its starry skies offers an otherworldly adventure and a breathtaking landscape unique to Egypt.
Location: Farafra Oasis, Western Desert, Egypt.
Best time to visit: October to April for pleasant daytime temperatures and cool nights for camping.
Activities on offer:
Camping in the White Desert under a blanket of stars.
Exploring the unique “mushroom” and “ice cream cone” rock formations.
Visiting the Black Desert and Crystal Mountain nearby.
Wildlife spotting, though sparse, may include fennec foxes.
Accommodation:
(Primarily camping; tour operators provide tents and facilities)
Badawiya Farafra Camp (Eco-friendly desert camp)
Qasr El Farafra Hotel (in Farafra Oasis, a base for tours)
11. Islamic Cairo
Islamic Cairo is the historic heart of Cairo, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with magnificent mosques, madrasas, bustling bazaars, and medieval architecture. It offers an unparalleled cultural experience and a journey through Egypt’s rich Islamic history, featuring many vital historical sites.
Location: Central Cairo, Egypt.
Best time to visit: October to April for pleasant walking weather.
Activities on offer:
Shop amid the Maze of Khan el-Khalili, a vibrant historic souk.
Admire Mamluk Architecture in the Sultan Hassan Mosque and Refa’i Mosque.
Visit the Museum of Islamic Art for incredible collections.
Stroll down Al-Muizz li-Din Allah Street to see numerous medieval buildings.
Accommodation:
Fairmont Nile City
Ritz-Carlton, Cairo
The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo
12. Aswan
Aswan, a tranquil city on the Nile River in southern Egypt, is known for its beautiful riverine landscapes, vibrant Nubian culture, and impressive ancient monuments. It’s a key starting or ending point for Nile River Cruises and offers a more relaxed pace of travel.
Location: Southern Egypt, on the Nile River.
Best time to visit: October to April for mild, pleasant weather.
Activities on offer:
Sail around Aswan on a Felucca (traditional sailboat) at sunset.
Visit the beautiful Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, on Agilkia Island.
Explore the High Dam and the Unfinished Obelisk.
Visit a Nubian Village for a unique cultural experience and colorful homes.
Accommodation:
Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan
Mövenpick Resort Aswan
Nubian Village Aswan (guesthouse options)
13. Edfu Temple (Temple of Horus)
The Temple of Horus at Edfu is one of the best-preserved ancient Egyptian temples, dedicated to the falcon god Horus. Its remarkably intact structure, intricate reliefs, and grand scale offer an incredible insight into Ptolemaic-era architecture and religious practices, making it a key historical site to explore.
Location: Edfu, between Luxor and Aswan on the west bank of the Nile.
Best time to visit: October to April. Usually visited as part of a Nile River Cruise.
Activities on offer:
Exploring Edfu’s Magnificent Temple of Horus, walking through its massive pylons and halls.
Admiring the detailed carvings depicting Horus and other deities.
Learning about ancient Egyptian mythology and rituals.
Taking a horse-drawn carriage from the river to the temple.
Accommodation:
(Typically visited as part of a Nile Cruise with accommodation on board)
Basma Hotel Aswan (if visiting from Aswan)
Steigenberger Nile Palace Luxor (if visiting from Luxor)
14. Kom Ombo Temple
Kom Ombo Temple is a unique double temple dedicated to two gods: Sobek (the crocodile god) and Horus (the falcon god). Its symmetrical design, relief carvings, and location overlooking the Nile River make it a fascinating historical site and a popular stop on Nile River Cruises.
Location: Kom Ombo, between Luxor and Aswan on the east bank of the Nile.
Best time to visit: October to April. Best seen as part of a Nile River Cruise.
Activities on offer:
Exploring Kom Ombo Temple, noting its symmetrical layout for two distinct cults.
Visiting the Crocodile Museum on site, housing mummified crocodiles.
Admiring the intricate carvings, including depictions of ancient surgical instruments.
Enjoying the temple’s scenic setting by the Nile River.
Accommodation:
(Typically visited as part of a Nile Cruise with accommodation on board)
Tolip Hotel Aswan (if visiting from Aswan)
Mercure Luxor Karnak (if visiting from Luxor)
15. Dahshur
Dahshur is an ancient royal necropolis in the desert, home to some of the earliest and most innovative pyramids in Egypt. It includes the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, precursors to the Pyramids of Giza, offering a crucial insight into the evolution of pyramid architecture and a less crowded historical site.
Location: South of Cairo, in the Giza Governorate.
Best time to visit: October to April for comfortable temperatures.
Activities on offer:
Exploring the Bent Pyramid, known for its unique angle changes.
Entering the Red Pyramid, Egypt’s first true pyramid, for an adventure inside.
Witnessing the archaeological excavations still in progress.
Enjoying the peaceful desert landscape away from the crowds of Giza.
Accommodation:
(Usually visited as a day trip from Cairo; no direct accommodation at the site).
Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel & Spa (in Giza)
Pyramids Park Resort Cairo
16. Saqqara
Saqqara is a vast, ancient burial ground that served as the necropolis for the ancient Egyptian capital of Memphis. Its most famous feature is the Step Pyramid of Djoser, considered the world’s oldest stone structure. This extensive historical site is a treasure trove of tombs and temples, offering deep exploration into Egypt’s early dynasties.
Location: South of Cairo, Giza Governorate.
Best time to visit: October to April for pleasant weather.
Activities on offer:
Exploring Saqqara, marveling at the Step Pyramid and its complex.
Visiting the Serapeum, an underground gallery of massive sarcophagi.
Descending into various Mastaba tombs, like the Tomb of Ti, with their intricate reliefs.
Learning about Imhotep, the architect of the Step Pyramid.
Accommodation:
(Usually visited as a day trip from Cairo; no direct accommodation at the site).
Safir Hotel Cairo
Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino
17. Abydos
Abydos is one of Egypt’s most ancient and sacred sites, considered a pilgrimage destination for ancient Egyptians. It is home to the Temple of Seti I, known for its incredibly detailed and well-preserved hieroglyphs, particularly the Abydos King List. This less-visited historical site offers a profound cultural experience of ancient Egypt.
Location: Sohag Governorate, Upper Egypt.
Best time to visit: October to April for comfortable temperatures. Often visited as a day trip from Luxor.
Activities on offer:
Exploring The Temples of Abydos, particularly the Temple of Seti I and its Osireion.
Admiring the exquisite artistry of the relief carvings, still retaining much of their original color.
Studying the Abydos King List, a chronological list of pharaohs.
Experiencing the quiet reverence of this important ancient religious center.
Accommodation:
(Limited accommodation directly in Abydos; often done as a long day trip from Luxor).
Steigenberger Nile Palace Luxor (if coming from Luxor)
Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa
18. Mount Sinai & Saint Catherine’s Monastery
Mount Sinai is a revered biblical site, believed to be where Moses received the Ten Commandments. At its foot lies Saint Catherine’s Monastery, one of the oldest working Christian monasteries in the world. This spiritual destination offers a challenging adventure and a profound cultural experience in a breathtaking landscape.
Location: South Sinai Governorate, Sinai Peninsula.
Best time to visit: October to April for cooler temperatures for hiking.
Activities on offer:
Hike up Mt Sinai (either by foot or camel) to witness the sunrise from the summit.
Visit Saint Catherine’s Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore its library of ancient manuscripts and religious icons.
Learn about the history and significance of this holy place.
Enjoy the serene desert landscape.
Accommodation:
Saint Catherine’s Monastery Guesthouse (basic accommodation within the monastery complex)
Bedouin Camp options nearby
(Many visitors stay in Sharm el-Sheikh and take a tour.)
19. Luxor Temple
Luxor Temple is a magnificent ancient Egyptian temple complex located on the east bank of the Nile River in Luxor. Dedicated to the rejuvenation of kingship, its grand pylons, colonnades, and sphinx-lined avenue connect it to Karnak Temple, making it a stunning historical site to explore, especially at night.
Location: East Bank of Luxor, Egypt.
Best time to visit: October to April for mild weather. Best seen at sunset or after dark when beautifully lit.
Activities on offer:
Walk through the impressive colonnades and courtyards, admiring the architecture.
Witness the temple lit up at night, offering a magical cultural experience.
Explore the Mosque of Abu el-Haggag, which is built into the temple complex.
Learn about the Opet Festival, a major ancient Egyptian ceremony re-enacted at the temple.
Accommodation:
Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor
Pavillon Winter Palace
Sonesta St. George Hotel Luxor
20. Colossi of Memnon & Hatshepsut’s Temple
On the West Bank of Luxor, the Colossi of Memnon are two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, guarding the entrance to his ruined mortuary temple. Nearby, the Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut is a striking example of ancient Egyptian architecture, built into the cliffs. These historical sites are essential stops for understanding royal burials and powerful female pharaohs.
Location: West Bank of Luxor, Egypt.
Best time to visit: October to April for pleasant weather. Morning is best to avoid heat.
Activities on offer:
Marvel at the sheer size of the Colossi of Memnon and imagine their former temple.
Explore Hatshepsut’s Temple, appreciating its unique terraced design and reliefs.
Learn about the fascinating history of Queen Hatshepsut, one of Egypt’s most powerful pharaohs.
Combine this visit with the Valley of the Kings and other West Bank sites.
Accommodation:
(Typically visited as part of a West Bank tour from Luxor accommodation)
Mara House Luxor (West Bank guesthouse)
Amr Ethna Guesthouse (West Bank)
Egypt truly is an unparalleled destination for travelers seeking to explore millennia of history, vibrant culture, and incredible natural wonders. From the iconic Pyramids of Giza to the serene Nile River Cruise, the bustling streets of Cairo to the vibrant Red Sea for diving, and the peaceful Siwa Oasis, Egypt offers breathtaking landscapes and profound historical sites. Whether you’re drawn to ancient architecture, thrilling desert adventure, or rich cultural experiences, these places to visit in Egypt promise a journey of a lifetime.
Ready to explore these incredible destinations for yourself? Let Hourglass Expeditions craft your perfect Egypt travel adventure, tailored to your dreams and interests. Contact us today to start planning your bespoke journey to this timeless land!
