Top Attractions in Egypt
Written by
Ker & Downey® Africa
Egypt is a land full of dreams, mystery and a truly intoxicating culture. Shrouded in history, it is home to some of the most fascinating monuments and ancient wonders on the planet. Not only does this beguiling destination play host to the colossal pyramids, temples, and tombs of the ancient world, it is also home to the Nile River and intensely vibrant coral reefs and warm waters of the Red Sea. It is a captivating land of contrasts where, as Gustave Flaubert describes, “splendid things gleam in the dust”.
Explore this enthralling land with us as we share some of the top attractions of Egypt with you.
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Pyramids of Giza
The Pyramids of Giza are undoubtedly one of the most extraordinary human feats on the planet. Built around 4,500 years ago, these mammoth tombs are remarkable constructions of classical antiquity and, not surprisingly, are one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The oldest pyramid of the three was built for Pharaoh Khufu and is the largest in Giza, towering some 147 meters (481 feet) above the desert sand. An estimated 2.3 million stone blocks, each weighing an average of 2.5 to 15 tons, were used to build this structurally miraculous tomb.
Situated near the Great Pyramid is the giant 4,500-year-old statue known as the Great Sphinx of Giza. This mysterious ancient lion with a human head rests on a rocky plateau and, unlike the neighboring pyramids, was carved from a single mass of limestone. It is one of the oldest and largest monolithic structures on Earth standing at an impressive height of 20 meters (66 feet) and is over 73 meters (240 feet) long. These astonishing symmetrical structures are one of the top attractions in Egypt and receive around 14.7 million visitors each year.
The extraordinary Pyramids of Giza, located just outside of Cairo
The Nile
The Nile River has served as an unwavering life force to the Egyptian people for thousands of years. It was vital to the development of ancient Egypt’s civilization, providing a literal lifeline to the desert. This impressive waterway flows over 6,600 kilometers (4,100 miles) making it the world’s longest river – just over the length of the mighty Amazon River. The Nile River begins its journey in tributaries that flow into the great Lake Victoria in Uganda and ends in the Mediterranean Sea.
The quest to unveil the source was considered one of the most important scientific inquiries of the 19th century. This truly incredible natural wonder flows through 10 other African countries including Burundi, Tanzania, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Uganda, Sudan, Ethiopia, and South Sudan. Scattered with some of the region’s most famous temples and tomb sites dating back to antiquity, the fertile banks of the Nile are best explored on a cruise or traditional felucca – an unforgettable experience on a visit to Egypt.
The Nile River is often referred to as ‘the father of African rivers’
The Valley of the Kings
Located in Luxor on the west bank of the Nile, the famed Valley of the Kings pays homage to some of the most iconic rulers of ancient Egypt. Dating back over 3,000 years, this royal burial ground comprises brightly muraled tombs and chambers constructed for the great pharaohs of antiquity. The Valley of the Kings serves as the final resting place for the mummies of great kings including Tutankhamun, Ramses II, and Seti I, as well as queens, high priests, and other important nobility of the 18th, 19th, and 20th dynasties.
The sprawling tombs that make up the Valley of the Kings range in size from single chamber burials to colossal complexes spanning several thousand square meters. A fantastic way to grasp the impressive nature of this significant landmark is a sunrise hot air balloon over Luxor. Balloon rides take place just after the sun rises and casts its beautiful morning light over the tombs sites and temples of the Valley of the Kings, as well as the surrounding barren escarpments and lush riverbanks of the Nile river.
The inside of a tomb within the famed Valley of the Kings in Luxor
The Red Sea
While travelers may flock to Egypt for the ancient monuments found in Giza and along the Nile, the narrow strip of ocean between Egypt and Saudi Arabia, known as the Red Sea, has become a booming destination in its own right. Here, in one of the world’s warmest oceans, you will find kaleidoscopic coral reefs, intense blue-green waters, and a diverse assortment of marine life. This body of water is highly sought-after amongst scuba divers around the world, and boasts some of the most popular dive sites on the planet.
Located in Egypt’s South Sinai, the popular beach resort of Sharm el-Sheikh is a luxurious oasis nestled between the stark desert and the azure Red Sea. Travelers can enjoy year-round sunshine, panoramic views, and crystal-clear waters within the protected marine reserve. We highly recommend a visit to this breathtaking region after a thrilling adventure exploring the wonders of ancient Egypt for a full, all-round experience.
The coastal town of Sharm el-Sheikh, located between the desert of the Sinai Peninsula and the Red Sea
Abu Simbel
Now located along the shore of Lake Nasser in the south, the Abu Simbel temples were constructed by the great King Rameses II. These striking limestone structures are considered to be the most famous monument in Egypt after the great Giza Pyramids. Characterized by the two immense carved rock temples, Abu Simbel was dedicated to King Rameses II and his first wife, Queen Nefertari, to commemorate his victorious win at the Battle of Kadesh. Four colossal statues of a seated pharaoh Rameses II guard the doorway to the larger of the temples standing around 21 meters (69 feet) tall.
The Abu Simbel temples built by the great pharaoh Rameses II
Discover all the wonders of Egypt with us and see why this fascinating land has captured the hearts of so many for centuries. Get in touch with one of our LuxVenture® Designers today and plan the ultimate expedition into the ancient world of this captivating African destination.
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