Egypt is a destination for those fascinated by the world’s history. Its past extends into a time pre-dating the Bible, and it is the site of the last of the remaining Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. You’re not going to have trouble fulfilling your clients’ fascination quota here, but it can be tricky to decide what exactly to showcase in this magnificent country in the time you have to work with.
Read on for ideas when planning your clients’ Egypt tour.
Cairo, Egypt’s Capital
Hugging the banks of the Nile River and located about 15 miles northeast of the Giza Pyramid complex, Cairo is Egypt’s capital and one of the world’s oldest ancient civilizations.
Having clients stay in Cairo puts them in a position to see the most of what Egypt has to offer in a short amount of time. If the vacation is longer, it is prime to arrive and stay here for a few days before heading to another Egyptian destination.
For History
Pyramids
Giza Pyramid Complex – Located west across the Nile about 15 miles from Cairo, this is where visitors come face-to-face with Egypt’s most famous pyramids.
- The Great Pyramid of Giza stands powerfully as the largest of the pyramids and is the last surviving relic of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
- The Pyramid of Khafre, tomb of the Fourth Dynasty Pharaoh Kharfre (believed to be the face of the Sphinx, located east of the same pyramid)
- The Pyramid of Menkaure is smallest in the trio and presumed to be the tomb of Fourth Dynasty Pharaoh Menkaure. Archaeologists argue over whether the three mini-pyramids on its south side are tombs belonging to the pharaoh’s queens or half-sisters.
Saqqara – A little over 20 miles north of the Giza Plateau, Saqqara is a massive ancient burial ground and hosts several more pyramids and tombs including the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the first limestone structure ever built dating as far back as 27th century B.C.
Dahshur Pyramids – A little further north of Saqqara and about 25 miles south of Cairo, this is where to find Egypt’s largest and best preserved pyramids. Visitors are able to enter some of the pyramids such as the Bent Pyramid, the still-standing first attempt at building a smooth sided pyramid, and Red Pyramid, the second more successful attempt at building a smooth sided pyramid.
Valley of the Kings
Located in the city of Luxor, a beloved destination of travelers, the Valley of the Kings sits at the west bank of the Nile and is home to 64 discovered tombs. Guided tours allow visitors to enter these sites and witness the detailed hieroglyphics and careful construction that went into the creation. The preservation of the valley’s elaborate tombs guarded by the surrounding sand mountains give the feeling of being transported to a world separate from modern civilization.
The Grand Egyptian Museum
The city has been working on this museum since 2012, and it is set to open this year on Tahrir Square in Cairo. The museum holds the largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, many relocated from other museums throughout Egypt. A massive collection of 5,000 items belonging to King Tutankhamun serves as the main attraction and the museum’s newest exhibit in 2021.
El Muizz Street
Medieval marvels and architectural treasures fill this one-kilometer stretch of street beginning from the north city gate of Bab al-Futuh to the south gate of Bab Zuweila. A stroll through here guides travelers passed historical buildings and mosques dating back to the 11th century. Clients can also do some shopping at the colorful booths that line its stone pathways.
For Adventure
Hiking Mount Sinai (a.k.a. Mount Moses)
As its name implies, this famous mountain is known as the site where Moses received the Ten Commandments. The mountain is also a popular place to hike, and those who love outdoor adventure make a point to include hiking to the 7,497-foot summit in their itinerary. Group tours offer an experience to replicate that of Moses’s, starting the hike at in the early morning hours so that you summit at sunrise.
Diving in the Red Sea
It is hard to imagine colorful coral reefs vibrant with marine life when thinking about the Egyptian desert, but don’t overlook this versatile country as one of the best places to go scuba diving and snorkeling. The hot summer whether makes water temperatures perfect for sea exploration and its waters are full of beautiful fish, dolphins, plants, and wrecks.
Kite and Windsurfing
Thanks to its mellow waters and consistent winds, Egypt’s climate is ideal for kite and windsurfing. Favorite places for the sport include Dahab on the Gulf of Aqaba and the beach resort town of Hurghada, where classes are offered.
Nile Cruise
Booking a multi-day cruise on the Nile is a unique way to see many of Egypt’s attractions while also floating on the world’s longest river. Most cruises sail between Aswan and Luxor and include stops at Kom Ombo, Edfu, Valley of the Kings, and many temples in each of the cities.
Other methods of transport on the Nile include riding aboard an authentic dahabiya, a beautiful large wooden sailboat, or a smaller felucca sailboat.
For Shopping
Khan el-Khalili Market
Known as Egypt’s can’t-miss bazaar and one of the largest markets in the Middle East. This is where clients find the most authentic souvenirs and experience the true energy of an Arabic marketplace.
Sharm El Sheikh
Situated on the Sinai Peninsula, this old market lends a break from the nearby resort city and presents an authentic shopping experience with some of the best prices in the area. Among the booths, clients find unique souvenirs, places to taste Egyptian cuisine like kebabs and kofta, fresh produce, and spices sold by the bag.
Egypt flourishes with countless attractions of ancient and modern alike. Book everything your clients need for their trip to Egypt with the all-inclusive WINGS booking engine. Access exclusive deals on airfare and book hotels, rental cars, and land activities all on the same platform.
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