When travelers think of Egypt, words like “antiquity”, “old” and “dusty” come to mind, but it offers much more than that. It is a prime location to learn about and experience aspects from a great heritage of the ancient world. The pyramids and holy temples draw thousands of avid historians, and local and foreign visitors annually.
Egypt is part of the Holy Land and tours to religious monuments are popular. For those wanting an action-packed holiday there are nature and desert treks, birding expeditions, golf, fishing and great scuba diving opportunities. You can choose to spend your time leisurely along the Sinai coast and the Egypt Red Sea, float serenely down the Egyptian Nile on a luxury river boat or take in the high culture by day or by night in Cairo.
It’s almost compulsory to visit the pyramids when in Egypt; the area holds more ancient sites than any other destination around the world. The Great Pyramids at Giza are best known pyramids – they are the icon most people associate with the country. However, if you really want to get a feel for the history of ancient Egypt you must remember that there are over 100 pyramids, and that’s excluding the temples and other tombs. Most of the sites are grouped closely around Cairo so are easily located. It’s best to find yourself a good guide or tour operator so that you’ll be taken to the best sites and won’t run the risk of trespassing where visitors are not allowed – some of the sites are sacred.
A desert trek is a great way of discovering the secrets of the ever-changing land of Egypt. You’ll spend time in surreal landscapes where unexplored terrain lies waiting. One of the destinations of this trip is the Bahariya Oasis, accessed by any vehicle. The road is well-paved, but travelers must be aware of sand drifts along the way. Even though it is an oasis there are villages nearby, as well as many interesting spots to explore. It is highly recommended that visitors only embark on this trip with an official tourist guide.
Scuba diving in Egypt is another popular pastime. Visitors can experience a myriad of exotic sea life, and will be able to tell jealous family and friends back home that they went swimming in the Egypt Red Sea. If you don’t want to get into the water but are looking for an outdoor experience unlike any other, a birding expedition should be right up your alley. There are many birding areas in Egypt with opportunities to spot some amazing indigenous birds.
Tip: If you’re planning a visit to Egypt you’ll need to remember that it is a Muslim country and is quite conservative. To avoid any embarrassing situations, or offending the local people, try to dress appropriately. Don’t show off large amounts of skin, the more conservatively dressed you are the more you’ll fit in.
Jade Scully is a copywriter excited about writing copy and stories, blogging about the world and editing. She currently and regularly publishes her stories on a number of blogs. Jade loves animals and hopes to begin writing copy for the animal rescue charity TEARS as her contribution to the cause.
