The pyramids of Giza
Location: Near Cairo
- Why it’s beautiful: One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Great Pyramid of Khufu, along with the pyramids of Khafre and Menkaure, create a breathtaking and iconic view in the desert.
- Highlight: The nearby Great Sphinx, especially at sunrise or sunset.
The Temples of Abu Simbel
Location: Southern Egypt, near Sudan border
- Why it’s beautiful: Colossal statues carved into rock cliffs by Pharaoh Ramses II. The temple aligns with the sun twice a year, lighting up the inner sanctuary.
- Highlight: The precision of ancient Egyptian architecture and the serene setting by Lake Nasser.
White Desert (Sahara el Beyda)
Location: Farafra, Western Desert
- Why it’s beautiful: A surreal landscape with chalk rock formations shaped like giant mushrooms, animals, and towers, all dazzling white.
- Highlight: Camping under the stars among glowing white rocks.
Siwa Oasis
Location: Western Desert near Libya
- Why it’s beautiful: A remote, peaceful oasis with palm groves, salt lakes, hot springs, and mud-brick ruins.
- Highlight: The Oracle Temple of Amun, visited by Alexander the Great.
Valley of the Kings
Location: Near Luxor
- Why it’s beautiful: Hidden tombs carved deep into the mountainside, richly decorated with ancient art and hieroglyphs.
- Highlight: The tomb of Tutankhamun and others with stunningly preserved wall paintings.
Karnak Temple Complex
Location: Luxor
- Why it’s beautiful: One of the largest temple complexes in the world, filled with massive columns, obelisks, and sacred lakes.
- Highlight: The Great Hypostyle Hall, with 134 towering columns.
Red Sea Coast (Hurghada & Sharm El Sheikh)
Location: Eastern Egypt
- Why it’s beautiful: Crystal-clear water, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life.
- Highlight: Scuba diving/snorkeling in Ras Mohammed or Giftun Island.
Dahab
Location: South Sinai
- Why it’s beautiful: A laid-back beach town with golden sands, turquoise water, and a mountain backdrop.
- Highlight: The Blue Hole dive site, popular with divers from around the world.
Islamic Cairo
Location: Old Cairo
- Why it’s beautiful: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with historic mosques, madrasas, and bustling bazaars.
- Highlight: Al-Azhar Mosque, Citadel of Saladin, and the view from Al-Muizz Street.
Mount Sinai (Jebel Musa)
Location: Sinai Peninsula
- Why it’s beautiful: A place of religious and natural significance, with epic sunrise views from the summit.
- Highlight: Climb at dawn and visit St. Catherine’s Monastery, one of the oldest in the world.
Nile River Cruises – especially between Luxor and Aswan, offering stunning views of temples, villages, and river life.
- Philae Temple – beautifully located on an island in the Nile near Aswan.
Tourism Information
- Best time to visit: October to April (cooler months).
- Activities:
- Guided tours inside the pyramids (ticketed).
- Camel or horse rides on the plateau
- Sunset photography and light-and-sound shows.