Here’s a sample travel guide for Egypt for 7 days:
Day 1: Cairo
- Visit the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
- Explore the Egyptian Museum
- Take a stroll through Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
Day 2: Luxor
- Take a morning flight to Luxor
- Visit the Karnak Temple and the Luxor Temple
- Explore the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens
- Take a sunset felucca ride on the Nile River
Day 3: Luxor
- Visit the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut
- Explore the Colossi of Memnon
- Take a hot air balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings (optional)
Day 4: Aswan
- Take a morning train or flight to Aswan
- Visit the Philae Temple and the High Dam
- Take a felucca ride to visit the Botanical Gardens on Kitchener Island
Day 5: Abu Simbel
- Take a day trip to visit the Abu Simbel temples (optional)
Day 6: Alexandria
- Take a morning flight to Alexandria
- Visit the Alexandria Library
- Explore the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa
- Take a stroll along the Corniche
Day 7: Cairo
- Return to Cairo
- Visit the Citadel of Saladin and the Mosque of Mohamed Ali
- Explore the Coptic Quarter and the Hanging Church
- Take a walk through Al Azhar Park
This is just a sample itinerary, and you can customize it to your interests and preferences. Egypt is a fascinating country with a rich history and culture, and there is so much to see and explore. Whether you’re interested in ancient ruins, modern cities, or natural beauty, Egypt has something to offer.
Pyramids of Giza
The Pyramids of Giza are one of the most iconic landmarks in Egypt, and a must-see for any traveler visiting the country. Here’s what you need to know about these ancient wonders:
- History: The Pyramids of Giza were built over 4,500 years ago as tombs for pharaohs and their consorts. They are the only surviving Wonder of the Ancient World.
- Location: The pyramids are located on the outskirts of Cairo, near the suburb of Giza.
- Construction: The pyramids were constructed from millions of limestone blocks, weighing up to 80 tons each. The largest pyramid, the Great Pyramid of Khufu, is over 450 feet tall.
- Inside the Pyramids: Visitors can enter the pyramids and explore the burial chambers of the pharaohs. However, it’s important to note that the interiors are narrow and can be hot and humid.
- The Sphinx: The Sphinx, a limestone statue with the head of a human and the body of a lion, stands near the pyramids. It’s believed to have been built around the same time as the pyramids.
- Camel Rides: Visitors can take camel rides around the pyramids, which is a popular activity for tourists.
- Sound and Light Show: At night, the pyramids are illuminated with a spectacular sound and light show that tells the history of Ancient Egypt.
Overall, the Pyramids of Giza are an awe-inspiring sight that will leave you with a sense of wonder and amazement. Don’t miss the opportunity to see them on your trip to Egypt!
The Sphinx
The Sphinx is a magnificent statue located near the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. Here’s what you need to know about this iconic landmark:
- History: The Sphinx is believed to have been built around 2500 BC, during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre. It is carved from a single piece of limestone and stands at over 66 feet tall.
- Meaning: The Sphinx has the head of a human and the body of a lion, and is believed to represent the pharaoh’s divine power and authority. It was also thought to serve as a guardian for the pyramids and their tombs.
- Restoration: The Sphinx has undergone several rounds of restoration over the years to protect it from damage due to weathering and erosion.
- Missing Nose: One of the most iconic features of the Sphinx, the nose, is missing. There are several theories about how the nose was lost, ranging from vandalism to natural erosion.
- Surroundings: The Sphinx is surrounded by other ancient Egyptian monuments, including the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx Temple.
- Nighttime Illumination: The Sphinx is illuminated at night with a stunning light show that tells the history of Ancient Egypt and the Sphinx’s significance.
Visiting the Sphinx is an incredible experience that provides insight into the rich history and culture of Ancient Egypt. Don’t miss the opportunity to see this iconic landmark on your trip to Egypt.
Museum of Egyptian Antiquities (Cairo Museum)
The biggest and most well-known museum in Egypt — the Cairo Museum, otherwise known as the Egyptian Museum. Home to over 120,000 ancient Egyptian artefacts, the Cairo Museum holds the world’s largest collection of pharaonic antiquities. It’s here where you can see the infamous King Tutankhamun collection, complete with his sarcophagus and gold burial mask.
Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
Khan el-Khalili Bazaar is a bustling marketplace located in the heart of Islamic Cairo, Egypt. Here’s what you need to know about this iconic bazaar:
- History: The bazaar was built in the 14th century during the reign of Sultan al-Nasir Muhammad, and has been a hub of commerce and trade ever since.
- Products: The bazaar offers a wide variety of products, including spices, textiles, jewelry, pottery, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to find unique and handmade items to bring home as a reminder of your trip to Egypt.
- Atmosphere: The bazaar is known for its lively and colorful atmosphere, with vendors calling out to passersby and bargaining over prices. It’s a great place to experience the energy and vibrancy of Cairo.
- Food: There are also many food stalls and cafes within the bazaar, offering traditional Egyptian cuisine such as falafel, koshari, and shawarma.
- Architecture: The bazaar is also known for its beautiful architecture, with intricate tile work and ornate wooden screens that provide shade and privacy for shop owners and customers.
- Location: The bazaar is located in the historic district of Islamic Cairo, which is home to many other ancient mosques, madrassas, and monuments.
Luxor
Luxor is a city in Upper Egypt that’s known for its ancient Egyptian monuments and temples. Here are some of the top things to do in Luxor:
- Visit the Valley of the Kings: This is a must-see site for anyone interested in ancient Egyptian history. It’s a vast burial ground where many pharaohs were buried, including King Tutankhamun.
- Explore the Karnak Temple: This temple complex is one of the largest in Egypt, and it’s dedicated to the god Amun. It’s known for its towering columns and intricate carvings.
- Take a hot air balloon ride: A hot air balloon ride is a great way to see the sights of Luxor from above. You’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the Nile River, the Valley of the Kings, and the ancient temples.
- Visit the Luxor Temple: This temple was built in the 14th century BC, and it’s dedicated to the god Amun. It’s known for its massive statues and towering columns.
- See the Colossi of Memnon: These two giant statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III are located on the west bank of the Nile River, and they’re over 3,000 years old.
- Take a Nile River cruise: A Nile River cruise is a great way to see the sights of Luxor and the surrounding areas. You’ll get to see the temples and monuments from a different perspective, and you’ll enjoy the beauty of the Nile River.
- Visit the Luxor Museum: This museum is home to a collection of artifacts from the ancient Egyptian period, including statues, jewelry, and sarcophagi.
Luxor is an incredible destination that’s full of history and culture. These are just a few of the many things to see and do in this fascinating city.
Top Things to do Aswan
Aswan is a city in southern Egypt that’s known for its beautiful scenery and ancient monuments. Here are some of the top things to do in Aswan:
- Visit the Abu Simbel Temples: These ancient temples are located about 280 km south of Aswan, and they’re one of the most impressive sites in Egypt. The temples were built by Pharaoh Ramses II and are known for their massive statues and intricate carvings.
- Take a boat ride on the Nile River: The Nile River is one of the most famous rivers in the world, and taking a boat ride is a great way to see the sights of Aswan from a different perspective.
- Explore the Nubian villages: The Nubian people are an ancient civilization that have lived in the area for thousands of years. You can visit their villages and learn about their customs and traditions.
- Visit the Temple of Philae: This temple is located on an island in the Nile River, and it was dedicated to the goddess Isis. It’s known for its beautiful carvings and hieroglyphics.
- Visit the Aswan Dam: The Aswan Dam is one of the largest dams in the world, and it’s an important source of hydroelectric power for Egypt. You can take a tour of the dam and learn about its history and construction.
- Explore the Souk: The Souk is a traditional market in Aswan, and it’s a great place to shop for souvenirs and local products.
- Visit the Unfinished Obelisk: This massive obelisk was abandoned by ancient workers when a crack appeared in the rock. It’s located in a granite quarry near Aswan, and it’s an impressive sight to see.
Aswan is a beautiful city that’s full of history and culture. These are just a few of the many things to see and do in this fascinating destination.
