Top 10 Things to Do in Egypt

Take a tour of the iconic Pyramids of Giza, marvels of ancient Egyptian architecture situated on the Giza Plateau, just outside Cairo. These enormous constructions, which include the Pyramid of Khafre, the Great Pyramid of Khufu and the Pyramid of Menkaure, exhibit unmatched accuracy in design. The oldest and largest Great Pyramid stands at 146 meters and was built with an estimated 2.3 million limestone blocks. Wander through the ancient necropolis, appreciating the delicate intricacies of the Sphinx and feeling the palpable history that pervades these massive structures. It is a journey into Egypt’s ancient past that fascinates you.

Best time: October through February, the colder months of late fall and winter, are the ideal times to see the Pyramids of Giza. The clear skies offer breathtaking vistas of the historic buildings and the temperatures are more comfortable for outdoor activities. You can also avoid the intense midday heat by going there early morning or late afternoon.

If you are looking for cool things to do in Egypt, embark on an opulent journey as you cruise the majestic Nile River aboard a luxury cruise. Typically, these cruises go between Luxor and Aswan, stopping at well-known sites, including the Philae Temple, Karnak Temple, and the Valley of the Kings. Take expert-guided tours to explore Egypt's rich heritage and unveil the secrets of the pharaohs. Relish in world-class cuisine, spacious cabins with panoramic views and top-notch service. Witness mesmerizing sunsets over the Nile and enjoy the magic of sailing along the lifeblood of Egypt, surrounded by unparalleled comfort and elegance.

Best time: The winter months, from November to February, are the best times to take a Nile cruise. The weather is mild, and the temperatures are pleasant for enjoying the open-air decks and breathtaking views along the river. Avoid the peak summer months when the heat can be quite intense.

Discover the ancient temples of Egypt, where the echoes of millennia-old rituals resonate through time. Guided expeditions lead enthusiasts through monumental structures like Karnak and Luxor, revealing the grandeur of religious practices in antiquity. Marvel at colossal statues, intricate hieroglyphs and sacred chambers, each telling a story of devotion to gods and pharaohs. Expert narrations unveil the significance of each temple, providing a profound connection to the spiritual and architectural achievements of ancient Egyptians.

Recommended destinations:

• Karnak Temple: Karnak, near Luxor, is a vast temple complex dedicated to various deities, constructed over 2,000 years ago. Witness the monumental Hypostyle Hall with 134 columns, the Sacred Lake and the iconic obelisks. This architectural marvel reflects the religious and political significance of ancient Thebes.
• Luxor Temple: Situated on Luxor's east bank, Luxor Temple showcases exquisite design dating back to 1400 BCE. Marvel at the elaborate hieroglyphics, the Avenue of Sphinxes and the enormous statues of Ramses II. Lit up at night, it offers a captivating atmosphere during your trip to Luxor.
• Aswan Temple: The Philae Temple, relocated to Agilkia Island in Aswan, venerates the goddess Isis. Carved reliefs depict ancient rituals, and the Kiosk of Trajan stands as a testament to Roman influence. Explore this Nile island sanctuary, resonating with Egypt's spiritual heritage on your Aswan tour.

Best time: The winter months of November through February are the ideal times to explore the historic temples now that the heat has subsided due to the colder weather. Early morning visits are recommended to escape the crowds and have a quiet experience.

Delve into the enchanting tapestry of Old Cairo by exploring its vibrant markets, one of the most fun things to do in Egypt. Explore the maze-like passageways of Khan El Khalili, one of the Middle East's oldest bazaars, which dates back to the 14th century. Indulge in the sensory overload of rich fabrics, traditional crafts and pungent spices. Engage with friendly local vendors, honing your bargaining skills for unique souvenirs. Marvel at the historic architecture surrounding the market, including the medieval-style gates. From exquisite jewelry to handcrafted artifacts, Old Cairo's markets offer an authentic and immersive experience, inviting you to savor the essence of Egypt's bustling capital.

Best time: The vibrant markets in Old Cairo are best experienced in the evening, especially during the months of October to April when the temperatures are milder.

Escape the hustle and bustle of Egypt's vibrant cities and discover tranquility in the serene Siwa Oasis. Nestled in the heart of the Western Desert, this oasis is renowned for its lush palm groves, crystal-clear springs and ancient archaeological sites. Unwind in the tranquil waters of Cleopatra's Bath, which is thought to have been visited by the fabled queen herself. Explore the unique salt lakes, such as Bir Wahed, where you can float effortlessly due to the high salinity. Unwind in eco-friendly desert lodges, offering breathtaking views of the expansive dunes. Don't pass up the chance to see the mysterious and historic Temple of the Oracle.

Best time: The Siwa Oasis is a year-round destination, but the spring months of March to May offer a particularly pleasant climate with the desert environment covered in flowers.

Exploring museums in Egypt offers an enriching journey through millennia of captivating history and culture. Visitors are transported back in time as they wander through renowned institutions like the Egyptian Museum in Cairo or the Luxor Museum, encountering artifacts from ancient civilizations, mummies and breathtaking artifacts. Expertly curated exhibits showcase the evolution of Egyptian art, technology and daily life, providing a profound understanding of the country's rich heritage. Expert guides share tales of pharaohs and gods, making the past come alive. A unique blend of education and fascination, museum tours should be on top of your list of things to do in Egypt.

Alternative destinations:

• Cairo - Egyptian Museum: Discover the treasures of ancient Egypt at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. Housing over 120,000 artifacts, including Tutankhamun's golden mask and mummies, it offers an immersive journey through the country's rich history, spanning the prehistoric to Greco-Roman eras.
  
• Luxor - Egyptian Museum: The Mummification Museum offers a unique perspective on ancient Egyptian burial practices in Luxor. Explore exhibits featuring mummification tools, coffins and well-preserved mummies, shedding light on the fascinating afterlife rituals.
• Giza - Egyptian Museum: The Solar Boat Museum, adjacent to the Great Pyramid of Giza, unveils the perfectly preserved Khufu Ship. This ancient vessel, intended for Pharaoh Khufu's afterlife journey, showcases remarkable craftsmanship and provides insights into ancient Egyptian maritime technology.
• Aswan - Egyptian Museum: Aswan's Nubian Museum is a cultural gem that celebrates the rich heritage of the Nubian people. With exhibits from prehistoric times to the present, it chronicles Nubia's history, art and traditions, offering a comprehensive look into this vibrant African civilization.

Best time: Although you can visit the Egyptian museums year-round, the winter months of November through February offer a more comfortable setting for seeing the vast collection.

If you are looking for unique things to do in Egypt, head to the mesmerizing White Desert and embrace the exhilarating sandboarding experience. Located in the Farafra Depression, this otherworldly landscape is characterized by surreal chalk rock formations contrasting sharply against the golden sands. Strap yourself onto a sandboard and glide your way down the supple, rolling dunes with the ethereal splendor of the desert all around you. The White Desert's vast, untouched expanses provide an ideal playground for beginners and seasoned sandboarders.

Best time: For an exhilarating sandboarding experience in the White Desert, the best time is during the cooler months, from October to March. The temperatures are more bearable, and the unique white landscape creates a stunning backdrop for this adventurous activity.

Saddle up and embark on an iconic Egyptian camel ride adventure. Meandering through desert sands, expeditions on the humped ships of the desert reveal whispers of ancient trade routes that once connected far-flung lands. Sitting atop the saddle about six feet high, watch the sunset over the Sphinx as your camel returns along the same trail. For a more extended trip, ride into the desert and spend the night stargazing at a traditional Bedouin camp. Camelback rides are one of the best ways to learn about the enduring desert lifestyle of the country.

Alternative destinations:

• Luxor West Bank: Multi-day camel safaris to the Valley of the Kings and beyond offer immersive overnights in the desert, tracing old caravan routes now gone but not forgotten.
• Sharm El Sheikh: Camel rides in Sharm El Sheikh allow you to cross the sandy Sinai beaches that demonstrate an enduring Bedouin lifestyle against the contrasting backdrop of the bright blue Red Sea and modern coastal development.

Best time: Late fall and early spring provides a pleasant desert climate for a camel ride.

Set out on a thrilling adventure as you ascend to discover Egypt's captivating splendor. The Sinai Peninsula offers an iconic trek, with trails leading to the summit of Mount Sinai, where the sunrise reveals a captivating panorama. Alternatively, traverse the Red Sea's striking landscapes, with trails showcasing diverse ecosystems and coastal vistas. Egypt's varied terrain unfolds beneath your feet, from rugged mountains to vast deserts, providing a unique blend of challenges and rewards. Hiking enthusiasts can delve into the country's natural wonders, discovering hidden oases, ancient valleys and breathtaking viewpoints.

Alternative destinations:

• Mount Sinai: Summit the 2,285-meter Mount Sinai for a stunning sunrise panorama over the Sinai Peninsula and the Red Sea. The Siket Sayidna Musa trail reveals ancient inscriptions, adding a historical touch to this spiritually significant ascent.
• Colored Canyon: Explore Sinai's Colored Canyon, a mesmerizing geological wonder with sandstone walls adorned in vivid hues from mineral deposits. Navigate its winding trails to discover natural masterpieces like the "Amphitheater".
• White Desert National Park: Immerse yourself in Egypt's White Desert National Park, home to surreal chalk formations resembling an otherworldly landscape. Marvel at monolithic structures like the "Chicken and Tree". Camping amidst these ethereal wonders provides an intimate encounter with this geological marvel.
• Ras Mohamed National Park: Hike Ras Mohamed National Park's trails, where Sinai's arid beauty meets the Red Sea's vibrant marine life. Snorkel is surrounded by diverse aquatic species in the clear waters of Yolanda Reef. 

Best time: Hiking enthusiasts will find the autumn and spring months, from October to April, most suitable for exploring Egypt's diverse landscapes. The moderate temperatures and the varied terrains offer a range of hiking experiences.

Elevate your adventure with a hot air balloon ride, one of the top things to do in Luxor, Egypt. As you ascend into the dawn sky, catch the sunrise casting a golden glow over the Valley of the Kings and Queens, the Karnak Temple and the Colossi of Memnon. Drift peacefully above the Nile River, witnessing the lush landscapes and iconic landmarks unfold beneath you. These balloon rides, typically scheduled in the early morning for optimal weather conditions, offer a serene and panoramic adventure, allowing you to absorb the vast historical tapestry of Luxor from a unique vantage point.

Best time: The milder months of October through April are the ideal times to take a hot air balloon flight over Luxor. The crisp morning air and clear skies provide optimal conditions for a breathtaking aerial view of the ancient city and its landmarks.

Whether you are interested in culture, history or adventure, Egypt will not disappoint. From touring the ancient ruins to cruising the Nile and lounging on the Red Sea shores to taking in the view of iconic landmarks from a hot air balloon, there are many things to do in Egypt for an exciting holiday experience.

Explore our best Egypt tours to find a holiday of your choice in the Land of the Pharaohs. Or contact our local travel experts to plan a customized trip to Egypt. You can also check out our articles on the best time to visit Egypt and how many days to spend in Egypt to plan your trip.