An ancient land, rich in culture
Whether you’re over 50 and looking for adventure, or want to leave the whole family spellbound, holidays to Egypt deliver mystery and wonder. Iconic pyramids and ancient ruins have made Egypt – unforgettable land of pharaohs, a favourite travelling destination for decades but aside from the cultural depth, there are colourful coral reefs and endless starry skies to enjoy too.
So what are the best tourist attractions in Egypt?
First of all, it boasts two of the seven ancient wonders of the world – The Great Pyramid of Giza and the Lighthouse of Alexandria. Whilst the Lighthouse no longer stands, it’s possible to dive into the sea to explore it.
The Great Pyramid of Giza is around 4,600 years old and was built as a tomb for Pharaoh Khufu. It’s an Egyptian must-see, dominating Cairo’s skyline.
Other highlights include The Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Karnak. The valley is where Tutankhamun’s tomb was first discovered and you can still descend into the tombs to discover hieroglyphics. As for the temple, no one could fail to be impressed by this imposing religious structure, built over a period of 2,000 years.
Experiencing Egyptian nature
After packing in the sights, a bit of rest and relaxation may well be in order. Egypt besides being an unforgettable land of pharaohs, is also home to some of the best diving spots in the world with the Red Sea offering colourful coral reefs and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkelling.
It’s a great place to spot safari animals too with African lions, cheetahs, leopards, gazelles and hyenas all present in Egypt’s deserts and savannas. At the famous River Nile, you might spot the odd hippo or crocodile.
After dark, head into the Sahara to take a nighttime star-gazing tour and see the skies just as the Pharaohs would have done, centuries before you.
Enjoy culture, shopping and eating in Egypt
Once you’ve revelled in the wonder of the pyramids and taken time out to relax, there’s still plenty to see and do in Egypt for families, over 50s or couples alike.
- Savour the flavours. Try an Arabic cooking class or take a walking food tour through Alexandria, Cairo or Luxor. Egyptian cuisine is one of the most diverse in the world, mixing traditional Arabic recipes with the rich spices of North Africa. The popular dish ‘Koshari’ is one not to miss.
- Discover museums and monasteries. The Egyptian museum sits in a faded pink mansion and is a treasure trove for travellers who want to learn about the Pharaonic ages. Or if you’d like to visit one of the oldest monasteries in the world, St. Catherine’s stands at the foot of Mount Sinai where Moses is said to have received the Ten Commandments.
- Explore the bazaars. Cairo offers great shopping experiences – try Khan el-Khalili Bazaar for a sprawling Aladdin’s cave of spices and fabrics. Remember to prepare to haggle since it’s a way of life in Egypt. Start at half the price the vendor gives you and work your way to a compromise in the middle.
How to plan your Egyptian adventure
Before you book your holiday, think carefully about the season you’re travelling in since summer in Egypt can be very hot while winter nights can be chilly. Do your research and find out what other travellers have to say about certain sights and destinations before you finalise your itinerary.
We want you to have the most rewarding experience in this exotic country and are on hand to help you get the most from your trip. Start planning your holiday to Egypt by calling Silver Travel Advisor on 0800 412 5678.
