If Egypt isn’t on your travel list yet, it’s time to add it—bold, underlined, and starred. This North African gem is more than just the land of pyramids and pharaohs. It’s a country bursting with ancient wonders, vibrant culture, mesmerizing landscapes, and enough bucket-list experiences to fill an entire passport.
Here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Egypt—whether you’re a history buff, thrill-seeker, or sunset-chaser.
🏜️ 1. Stand in Awe of the Pyramids of Giza
Let’s get the obvious one out of the way. The last remaining wonder of the ancient world doesn’t disappoint. The Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx are just outside Cairo, and standing beneath them feels like stepping into a time machine. Pro tip: Go early in the morning or at sunset to beat the crowds and catch some magical lighting for photos.
🚢 2. Cruise Down the Nile River
Forget planes, trains, and automobiles. The best way to explore Egypt’s heart is by boat. A Nile River cruise between Luxor and Aswan takes you past ancient temples, charming villages, and endless desert landscapes. Opt for a traditional dahabiya if you want a slower, more serene experience.
🏛️ 3. Explore the Temples of Luxor & Karnak
Luxor is basically one giant open-air museum. Karnak Temple will blow your mind with its massive columns and intricate carvings. Luxor Temple, especially when lit up at night, is pure magic. Don’t skip the Valley of the Kings nearby—home to over 60 tombs, including that of Tutankhamun.
🏝️ 4. Dive or Snorkel in the Red Sea
Egypt isn’t just about the desert. Head to the coastal towns of Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh for crystal-clear waters and some of the best diving in the world. Coral reefs, colorful fish, and even shipwrecks await underwater adventurers.
If you’re looking for a chill, hippie-vibe beach town, Dahab is your place. It’s a favorite among backpackers and divers, offering incredible snorkeling, windsurfing, and laid-back cafes. Bonus: The cost of living here is super budget-friendly.
🧭 5. Get Lost in Old Cairo
The old part of Cairo is a maze of history and culture. Wander through Khan el-Khalili bazaar for spices, souvenirs, and Egyptian coffee. Visit Al-Azhar Mosque or climb to the top of the Citadel for panoramic views of the city. It’s chaotic, noisy, and completely unforgettable.
Join Cairo Walking Tours to blend Cairo’s culture and history with its authentic cuisine. With Cairo walking Tours, you can try Food Tour and add insider glimpse to your trip.
Walk Cairo’s historic streets and landmarks with an expert guide. Taste Egypt’s authentic cuisine to add a local experience to the city’s historic streets. Taste traditional eats via Cairo Food Tour and dive into Cairo’s vibrant alleys escorted by professional guides with the best Egypt Day Trips.
🐫 6. Take a Camel Ride at the Pyramids:
The surreal landscapes of the Sahara desert are like something from another planet. Giant Pyramids rise from the sand. Pyramids Camel Ride by sunrise or sunset is truly a majestic experience to view all 9 Pyramids at the Giza Panorama and feel the glory at the Sahara desert. It can be one of the best Things to do in Egypt.
Take a sunset camel ride at Giza plateau with the iconic pyramids Cheops, Chephren, Mecyranus in the distance. A Bedouin guide, make the way into the desert and through the village where you can touch life. Enjoy a scenic overlook where you can view the pyramids in full glory.
🕌 7. Visit Abu Simbel
This colossal temple complex built by Ramses II is carved straight into rock and relocated stone-by-stone in the 1960s to save it from flooding. It’s a bit of a journey to get to (close to the Sudanese border), but trust me—it’s worth it.
🎨 8. See Nubian Culture in Aswan
Aswan is more than just a gateway to Abu Simbel. Visit a Nubian village painted in every color imaginable, learn about local traditions, and enjoy a meal with a Nubian family. The hospitality is unmatched, and the culture is beautifully unique.
🧳 Final Tips Before You Go
- Best Time to Visit: October to April for cooler weather.
- Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP)
- Dress Code: Respect local customs, especially in religious areas—cover shoulders and knees.
- Language: Arabic, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
✈️ Ready to Pack Your Bags?
Egypt is one of those rare places where every step feels like part of a grand story—where history is written into the landscape, and every local has a story to tell. Whether you’re climbing through ancient tombs or sipping mint tea by the Nile, you’ll leave with memories that feel almost too epic to be real.
So, are you ready to walk like an Egyptian?
