Whether it's reliving Tintin's thrilling exploits in Egypt (ah, the unforgettable "Cigars of the Pharaoh"), indulging in the cinematic splendor of Hollywood's Egyptian epics (cue the Mummy series), or delving into the pages of our schoolbooks adorned with tales of Tutankhamun, Egypt has woven its timeless spell on us all.
And believe it or not, this fascination extended to our esteemed guests, Devika and Nikhil. Devika harbored a long-standing desire to explore the diverse locales chronicled in her beloved Agatha Christie mystery, "Death on the Nile". Meanwhile, her son, an avid disciple of Rick Riordan's mythic tales, found himself captivated by the mesmerizing realm of Egyptian Mythology, his passion so fervent that he corrected their guide's facts multiple times during the journey! With both wife and son unwavering in their determination to journey to Egypt, Nikhil eagerly joined the expedition (grateful, of course, for the attractively priced trip!).
Now, based on our engaging conversation with Devika and Nikhil, allow us to present some of Egypt's must-visit destinations to enrich your itinerary.
Around 3,000 BC, the ancient tale of Egypt began with the merging of Upper and Lower Egypt under one united kingdom, led by the legendary King Menes. This marked the birth of a remarkable civilization that spanned thirty dynasties. Menes established the capital city, "White Walls," at the meeting point of the Nile, where it graciously flows into fertile plains—what we now call Memphis. For over 3,000 years, Memphis stood as the majestic throne of the pharaohs. Today, just 20 miles north, Cairo, the modern capital, continues to thrive near this historic junction of the Nile valley and delta.
Pyramids, beyond their majestic appearance, hold a deeper significance as ancient royal tombs in Egypt. Constructed as monuments to house the pharaohs in the afterlife, these structures symbolize the beginning of a journey beyond death. The Step Pyramid at Saqqara, built for King Zoser (or Djoser) around 2750 BC, marked the inception of this tradition, mirroring the grandeur of royal palaces within its chambers.
1. Pyramids of Giza
Fast forward 150 years to the days of King Khufu in Egypt's Old Kingdom. That's when the Great Pyramid—the grandest of them all—was built, becoming one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World that still dazzles us today. When you're in Egypt, visiting this iconic structure feels like a must-do, almost like a tradition.
Now, picture the modern city of Giza, standing tall and bustling, quite different from those ancient wonders. But that's the thing about Egypt—it's a place where history and modern life mingle, showing us how the past still captures our hearts.
Known as the Giza Necropolis, this site cradles the tombs of Fourth Dynasty members, who ruled from around 2613–2494 BC. Among them rests the Great Sphinx, a towering monolithic figure guarding the mysteries of the past. Imagine, it took about 20 years to build, and the Great Pyramid's limestone blocks each weigh as much as a mini truck—truly mind-blowing!
As you listen to the spellbinding tales of the guides and explore the ancient chambers of the pyramids, don't forget to capture the magic by striking a pose with the Sphinx or pretending to lift the pyramids like a mighty pharaoh.
2. Dahshur, Memphis, and Saqqara
Just a short drive from Cairo lies a treasure trove of ancient wonders even older than those at Giza. Welcome to Dahshur, Memphis, and Saqqara, where history comes alive amidst some of the oldest and best-preserved sites in the world.
Begin your journey in Memphis, the first capital city of Egypt, by taking a quick tour of the open-air museum there.
Dahshur is where the ancient Egyptians likely honed their pyramid-building skills to perfection. It served as the testing ground for several early pyramid constructions, with each attempt refining their techniques.
Among the pyramids you'll explore here are the Red Pyramid and the Bent Pyramid. Additionally, you'll find several smaller pyramids scattered across the area, alongside the Black Pyramid—a weathered structure newer than its counterparts.
The Bent Pyramid represents their initial endeavor at constructing a smooth-sided pyramid, with its unique angle changes giving it its distinctive ‘bent’ appearance. Archaeologists suggest these alterations were made to prevent collapse. The construction of the Red Pyramid, the third-largest Egyptian pyramid, started only after the discovery of the optimal 43-degree angle.
At Saqqara, the necropolis of Memphis, you'll encounter the renowned Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest complete stone building complex globally. Constructed by stacking six mastabas, it stands at 62.5 meters tall, inspiring future pharaohs in pyramid construction. Additionally, you can explore tombs of nobles and generals from the Middle and New Kingdoms.
Tip from Devika and Nikhil: Exploring the pyramids of Dahshur can be an exhilarating adventure through tight, steep tunnels into ancient chambers. But, if you're claustrophobic or have knee/back issues, consider skipping entry to the Red and Bent pyramids.
A trip to Dahshur, Memphis, and Saqqara promises one of Egypt's richest history lessons. Plan for an early start; the full tour of all three sites takes nearly 7 hours.
3. Abu Simbel Temples
Nestled by the calm waters of Lake Nasser are Egypt's stunning Abu Simbel temples. Whether you set out from Aswan or Cairo, the trip can last up to 3-4 hours by land or quicker by air (though at a higher cost). But trust us, it's worth every penny!
Crafted over 3,000 years ago by the legendary Ramesses II, these temples have stood strong against time's erosion. The Temple pays homage to gods like Amon-Ra, Ra-Harakhti, and Ptah, showcasing Egypt's power and Ramesses II's eternal fame.
Would you believe it took twenty years to build these temples?
Once forgotten, the Abu Simbel temples laid hidden under shifting sands. Then, in 1813, explorer Jean-Louis Burckhardt found a piece of the Great Temple and four years later, Giovanni Battista Belzoni uncovered the entrance, after which tourism flocked to see the marvel.
But that's not the end. When the waters of the Aswan High Dam threatened to engulf the temples, a daring rescue mission began. In the 1960s, the entire complex was carefully taken apart, brick by ancient brick, and moved to higher ground—a massive effort involving over 50 nations and five years of hard work!
Now, as you stand before these grand structures, it's hard to believe they once stood in a different place.
4. Luxor Temples
For a fulfilling experience in Luxor, plan to spend at least two days exploring its rich heritage. However, bear in mind that two days might feel short when delving into thousands of years of Egyptian history.
Begin by visiting the majestic Karnak and Luxor temples, then, venture into the historic Valley of the Kings and explore the fascinating Temple of Hatshepsut in the nearby Valley of the Queens.
The Valley of the Kings is an extraordinary archaeological site that serves as the final resting place for many of Egypt's pharaohs.
The selection of this location was not arbitrary; the pharaohs were interred on the West Bank of the Nile River, where the sun sets each day, symbolizing the end or death of the day. It was here that pharaohs were laid to rest at the conclusion of their earthly lives, preparing for their journey into the afterlife. Among the illustrious tombs in this valley is that of Tutankhamun.
The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut stands as a testament to ancient Egypt's grandeur, beckoning visitors to delve into its rich history. Built to honor Queen Hatshepsut, one of Egypt's most influential pharaohs, this architectural marvel captivates with its stepped platforms, majestic pillars, and vibrant reliefs against the desert backdrop.
As the daughter of King Thutmose I, Hatshepsut defied norms, assuming the role of queen regent after her husband's death. Despite her stepson Thutmose III's ascension, she boldly claimed the title of pharaoh and ruled for over two decades, making her one of Egypt's first female pharaohs.
Hatshepsut's legacy echoes through the ages, from towering obelisks in Thebes to roads honoring the gods. Her statues, portraying her in regal male attire, symbolized her authority and power.
Yet, her mortuary temple, Djeser Djeseru, stands as her crowning achievement. Adorned with scenes from her reign and housing shrines to Anubis, god of the dead; Hathor, goddess of fertility; Amun, king of gods; and Re, god of the sun it solidified her place among Egypt's rulers.
Despite her efforts to secure her legacy, Thutmose III sought to erase her from history, destroying her statues and defacing her images after her death. Yet, scholars, through painstaking excavation and deciphering hieroglyphs, have pieced together her remarkable story, ensuring that Hatshepsut's pioneering reign will never be forgotten.
Today, the temple remains a beloved spot for tourists, and it's not hard to understand why. With its breathtaking architecture and picturesque location, it truly stands out. Adorning its walls are captivating tales of sailing ships, brave soldiers, and the mystical land of Punt.
Take a moment to appreciate the remarkable Osiris statues and the intricate ceiling in the main sanctuary. As you explore, be sure to pause at each level to soak in the magnificent views offered by the temple. For the most well-preserved reliefs, head to the middle level.
The Temple of Karnak is one of the largest temple complexes ever built by humans, where every step whispers ancient tales. Here, you'll be greeted by the majestic Avenue of the Sphinxes, leading you to the awe-inspiring Luxor Temple. As you stroll through the Great Hypostyle Hall, adorned with 134 towering sandstone columns resembling papyrus stalks, you can't help but feel humbled by the grandeur of the ancient world.
Standing beside these colossal 70-foot tall columns, thousands of years old, offers a profound perspective on time and history. Don't miss the breathtaking views of the Precinct of Amun-Re from the Sacred Lake, and keep an eye out for the magnificent Obelisks of Hatshepsut.
Luxor Temple is one of Egypt's largest and most well-preserved temples. As you enter, you're greeted by towering stone statues of Ramesses II. Walking through the Grand Colonnade gives you a taste of the grand processional entrances of ancient times. The Sun Court of Amenhotep III is filled with mesmerizing giant columns.
But Luxor isn't just a glimpse into ancient Egypt; it also offers insights into the Roman Empire. Admire the frescoes in the Roman sanctuary and explore the remnants of the Roman fortress that once enclosed the temple. For the ultimate experience, visit during sunset when the sandstone glows in the golden hour, creating a magical atmosphere enhanced by the changing colors of the sky.
5. Cruising on the Nile
While in Egypt, immersing yourself in the lifeline of the country—the Nile—is an absolute must. The Nile cruises cater to diverse travel styles, offering a variety of experiences. Sailing from Luxor to Aswan over several days unveils a tapestry of cities, villages, and communities drifting past at a leisurely pace. Children can be seen playing along the shores, while fishermen greet passing boats with their daily catch.
Beyond cultural immersion, a Nile cruise offers unparalleled beauty. Tall reeds line the banks, framing breathtaking sunsets and sunrises. Standing on deck, witnessing the sky ablaze with hues of red and gold feels almost magical.
The focus of a Nile cruise is the exploration of ancient Egyptian temples and complexes, offering glimpses into the modern country along the way. Each day brings new wonders, meticulously organized to maximize passengers' time. After exploring archaeological sites, stops at local cafes or visits to communities are as prioritized as the next ancient marvel, enriching the journey with authentic experiences.
From the iconic pyramids of Giza to the majestic temples of Luxor and Karnak, Egypt is brimming with treasures waiting to be discovered. Beyond the renowned sites, hidden gems like the Edfu and Kom Ombo temples, as well as the captivating city of Alexandria, await discovery. After days of immersive exploration under the Egyptian sun, the tranquil shores of Hurghada and Sharm-el-Sheikh offer the perfect retreat to unwind and recharge.
And if you're an Indian tourist, don't be surprised if you find yourself being affectionately called 'Shahrukh Khan' by the locals, who are avid fans of Bollywood! Nikhil proudly recalls being called Shahrukh Khan throughout his time in Egypt, and who knows, you might get lucky like Devika and earn the Kareena Kapoor title!
To delve deeper into our Egyptian adventures and discover more hidden treasures with Nikhil and Devika, tune in to our podcast.
Connect with Nikhil: Twitter || LinkedIn
Connect with Devika: Twitter || LinkedIn
Additionally, we offer customized, detailed micro itineraries tailored to your preferences. Feel free to leave us a comment or send a message if you're interested in planning your trip with us. Here's a curated itinerary we have for Egypt:
Day 01: Arrival to Cairo
Either stay at Cairo city, or in Giza
If former, take a walk around the historical Tahrir square and along the banks of the river Nile
If latter, you will most likely be staying at a pyramid view hotel, so admire the lovely view of the pyramids from your hotel
Day 02: Full Day Pyramids, Sphinx & Egyptian Museum
Full Day Cairo tour
visit the Pyramids, Sphinx, Papyrus Institute, Egyptian Museum.
Day 03: Spend the day visiting the other popular Pyramids
Visit Dahshur’s Bent and Red pyramids
Visit Saqqara’s oldest complete stone building complex - the Pyramid of Djoser
Day 03: Day tour to Alexandria Oasis
Visit the Catacombs, Pompey’s Pillar, Roman Amphitheatre, Qait Bay Fortress, Alexandria library
Walk on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea and relax
Day 04: Tour the Coptic Cairo and Citadel area
Visit Old Cairo
Hanging Church, Abu Serga Church & Ben Ezra Synagogue
The Citadel
The Mosque of Suleiman Pasha, The Alabaster Mosque, Joeh's Walls, Mohamed Ali Pasha Palace)
Visit Khan El Khalili Bazaars
Take an overnight sleeper train to Aswan
Day 05: Tour of Aswan
Philae Temple, Aswan High Dam
Transfer to the Nile cruise for a 3N Nile cruising experience
Day 05-08: The cruise will stop at several temples/monuments for you to go on a leisurely tour on:
Kom Ombo Temple, Edfu Temple, Abu Simbel Temple, Necropolis of Thebes, on the Eastern bank
Hot air Balloon experience – a morning sunrise experience drifting peacefully over the Valley of King, Valley of the Queens and the Mountain on the Nobles.
Day 08: Depart from the cruise and tour Luxor West Bank
Valley of Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut, Colossi of Memnon
Day 09-11: Stay in the resort city of Hurghada
Enjoy the sun and the beach
Go for a day long cruise tour (we swam with dolphins on this tour)
Day 12: Back to Cairo and departure
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