Things to do in Egypt

Egypt is one of the top places to visit in the world, and it is easy to see why this is so. This country offers myriad things to do for visitors of every age and interest. From interacting with the local culture to seeing the ruins of ancient Egypt to simply enjoying a relaxing vacation along the Red Sea, travelers will find a host of activities in Egypt to suit their desires.

Nile River Cruises

One of the best activities in Egypt as well as the best way to see and experience the country is on a Nile River cruise. Visitors can book passage on one of the many vessels offering accommodations for anywhere between three to seven nights. Travelers can experience the life of a pharaoh and his lady cruising on the grand Nile River in a felucca, a traditional sailboat, or on larger, more modern craft.

Beaches

Typically, Egypt is not associated with gorgeous beaches and water activities as much as with the great pyramids and sphinx, but the beaches of the Red Sea and the Mediterranean Sea are among the most beautiful in the world, offering not only plenty of opportunities for sunbathing but excellent waters and wildlife for snorkeling and scuba diving as well. Many visitors travel to Egypt specifically for the inexpensive yet luxurious beaches and accommodations found in cities such as Marsa Alam, Dahab, and Hurghada.

Diving and Snorkeling

One of the most exciting things to do in Egypt is to go diving and snorkeling in the coastal waters. The best places for these Egypt activities are in the Red Sea and in the Gulf of Aqaba; Sharm el-Sheikh is a popular destination for visitors who are attracted to the sea. Be aware that this may require a visa if you're diving in the marine parks, such as Ras Mohammed.

Museums

Visiting the beaches is always a wonderful spectacle, but taking in a bit of culture can be among the most charming and delightful Egypt activities. One of the best museums in the country is the Pharaonic Village that sits on the shores of the Nile. Here, a live enactment takes place each day, portraying the life and times of Egyptians who lived in the time of the pharaohs. Other interesting things to do in Egypt include visiting the Egyptian Museum in Cairo and the Luxor Museum.

Shopping

Of the many things to do in Egypt, one of the most entertaining events is shopping. Visitors can haggle at the local bazaars, such as the famous Khan el Khalili in Cairo, and find a great deal of variety in products and merchandise at the innumerable shops that line the streets. From alabaster to Egyptian fashion, travelers will enjoy the colorful array of goods.

Temples

Visiting the temples is probably one of the activities in Egypt that everyone does at some point during their trip. Two of the most famous temples are Abu Simbel and Karnak. Many people gather at dawn at Abu Simbel to see the rays of light slowly illuminate the façade of the temple in glowing shades of red. Karnak is a great complex built and expanded over more than a thousand years; today, visitors can walk the same halls as the pharaohs once did in ancient times.

Pyramids

Another of the top ten things to do in Egypt is to visit the Pyramids of Giza, along with the Great Sphinx, and other pyramids around the country, including those at Dahshur and Saqqara. Each night in Giza, a grand light show takes place three times and is a breathtaking spectacle that hundreds of visitors enjoy each year.

Whatever Egypt activities you choose for your vacation in this historically and romantically saturated country, it is sure to be filled with intrigue and excitement in this top destination, and no matter what your interests or when you go, you'll find no shortage of memorable things to see.