Sailing the Nile along the lush Nile Valley surrounded by golden dunes and sightseeing Ancient Egyptian monuments such as Kom Ombo and Abu Simbel is tourism at its best. Wake to the soft light of the morning sun, take in the heat and cool off in the pool on the deck of a cruiser; watch fishermen cast their nets, farmers take to their fields, a flight of birds, and water buffalos staring back at you. Book a Nile cruise and you just might unravel another layer of the mystery that is Ancient Egypt.

For a softer but still very inspiring cruise experience in Egypt, try the short felucca cruises on the Nile, in Aswan, Luxor or Cairo, or take it to the next level and enjoy an unforgettable night aboard one of the luxurious dinner cruises available in the Egyptian capital.

Nile Valley

The Nile Valley is home to the Valley of the Kings, the iconic Pyramids, the majestic Sphinx and the stunning temples of Luxor and Karnak. Explore the cradle of civilization and sail the world’s longest river. Visit the Nile Valley and marvel at the wonders of the Ancient Egyptians. There is nothing in the world like it.

Luxor & Aswan Nile Cruises

Choose your dream cruise through a variety of Nile cruises in the land of the Pharaohs, sailing through southern Egypt and discover the most incredible and majestic temples between the cities of Luxor and Aswan.

Lake Nasser Cruises

Explore the best of Egypt and leave the stress and worries you have behind by sailing and experiencing a relaxing journey south on Lake Nasser to see the monuments and ruins of Ancient Nubia and Abu Simbel.

Dahabiya Nile Cruises

Take the classic way to see the Nile. Enjoy a tranquil sailing and explore unique temples & tombs not on your average Nile cruise route onboard a Dahabiya, most exclusive and luxurious way to experience the river.

NILE STEAMER CRUISE SHIPS

Have you ever asked how people used to move along the Nile River about one century ago. experience the luxury and stunning Movenpick Nile Steamer Cruise. take a trip back in time down the Nile on a historic steamship who hosted kings and queens onboard in different times.

Cairo Aswan Nile Cruises

Have an incredible Long Nile Cruise experience in Egypt between Cairo, Aswan and Luxor on board deluxe Nile Cruises combining tours along the Nile to Pyramids in Cairo, Valley of the Kings in Luxor and Philae Temple in Aswan with much more historical sights to visit while cruising the amazing Nile from Cairo to Aswan or vice versa. Select any of our Egypt Long Cruise offers.

Spa & Wellness

Egypt has been a healing destination since ancient times thanks to its sunny and dry climate. The desert is ideal for treatments such as sand bathing and therapeutic dips in hot springs. Desert sands have proven qualities that heal arthritis and rheumatic pains. Egypt has rich therapeutic environments that attract people from around the world to enjoy its sand, climate, natural mineral water and sulphuric springs that cure numerous bone, muscle, kidney, skin and stomach diseases.

Plan your trip around your needs to mix a healthy balance of sightseeing and relaxation, choose a wellness spa resort. Egyptian spas are located throughout Egypt, but some of the best are found in Cairo and the Red Sea Riviera resorts. Wellness spa resorts cater to your every desire and need, provide world class facilities and treatments. Egypt’s spas also offer locally made natural products and treatments that build on centuries of health and wellness practices.

Shadowed by the mystical relics of the ancient world, Egypt is an underrated wellness destination. Alternative wellness and medicine has been a defining part of Egyptian culture since primeval times, with the use of practices like aromatherapy and reflexology dating back millenia.

As one of the oldest civilizations on earth, ancient Egyptians dedicated a great deal of time to health and wellbeing practices. They viewed ailments and illnesses as a fight between good and evil, and used magicians and prayer alongside trained physicians. In fact, most alternative health practices can be traced back to the ancient Egyptians, making the country one of the most unique places to experience immersive and traditional wellness.

TÜV Rheinland, the Best Health International Certificate for quality in spa and wellness tourism, has already recognized a few of Egypt’s Spas that meet the highest wellness and health international standards.

Free your mind and body in an unforgettable Egyptian spa experience. Choose a wellness spa resort.

Within Egypt are around 28 protected ecosystems that range from coral reefs to Nile River Islands, desert regions and the mountainous areas of the Sinai Peninsula. Recent years have seen the induction of more protected areas to encourage ecotourism in Egypt. Some of the wetland protectorates like the Zaraniq Protectorate and El Bardaweel Marsh are very important to worldwide bird migrations. As such, these areas are designated as both “Wetland Protectorate” and “Natural Restricted Area for Birds”. Over 270 bird species can be found in these areas including pelicans, herons and crested larks.

Egyptian Deserts & Oases

A desert safari takes you through an endless stunning range of desert landscapes coupled with scenic sunsets and starry night skies. Walk along mud houses and ancient ruins in Egyptian desert oases, shop for locally made crafts and rub shoulders with Bedouins carrying out century old traditions− the Egyptian Desert is one of those mystic places where regular living practices are suspended or absent, a place where water access is everything and land ownership is nothing.

Discover amazing natural landmarks such as the Silica Glass Field and explore prehistoric rock art in the Swimmers Cave or Shaw’s Cave in Gilf El-Kebir. You can also experience the amazing thrill of Sand Boarding in the Great Sand Sea, Quad biking in the Western Desert, or dune camping under the desert’s starry night.

To go on a desert safari in the Western Desert of Egypt, contact a trusted tour operator. In the Sinai, shorter safaris can be arranged through your hotel or resort or by contacting any tour operator in the major Sinai cities.

Nature Exploration

Dominated by a harsh, unforgiving but beautiful desert and divided by the world’s longest river, nature travel in Egypt is something beautiful to experience. Sustain Egyptian nature reserves; stay in eco-lodges, visit Egypt’s National Parks and look for other ways to help. Nature travel in Egypt helps ecotourism thrive and set sustainable standards so that generations to come can enjoy the same natural wonders.

The pace of life for over 6000 years of civilization depends on the Nile River which is the only source of water in Egypt. The river also deposits fertile soil from the heart of Africa along its banks, which keeps the land rich for farming.

The combination of the Nile River, the Western and Sinai deserts and oases make Egypt a wonderful place to explore nature and see firsthand a delicate balancing act millions of years in the making.

Revel under the sun in the Red Sea Riviera and enjoy some of the best seaside and family activities in eastern Egypt. Located near the Eastern Desert and south of the Sinai, the Red Sea Riviera is a long coastal area full of beautiful beaches that lead to the Red Sea. Here you’ll be able to swim among dolphins, dugongs and an overwhelming number of flora and fauna.

The year-round sunshine on the Egyptian Red Sea makes it a perfect diving destination at any time of the year. Even in the first 3 months of the year, when water temperatures range from 21 to 22 degrees, you can still swim, snorkel or dive in the crystal blue waters.

You can take to a touristic hot spot destination and stay in any of the year round international hotels at Sharm El Sheikh. In the pleasant climate of Hurghada, you can go underwater fishing, snorkeling, camping, and visit the world’s largest aqua-culture museum.

Unwind in El Gouna at luxury hotels set among gorgeous mountains and crystal clear waters. Go diving, fishing and sightseeing at Marsa Alam. Connect with the friendly locals of a charming fishing village called Dahab. Marsa Alam and Safaga are well known therapeutic destinations sites. Safaga in particular is said to be one of the best locations in the world for curing psoriasis.

Dive into a giant aquarium to see a multicoloured world built by an army of builders- the corals. In the Red Sea Riviera your options are endless.

Water Activities

Water activities, water games, water sports and sunbathing is a must do while you visit the Red Sea Riviera, the White Med or the Sinai.

You’ll find pool side bars in hotels, seaside restaurants, ancient and new harbours, seaside citadels, coastal islands and plenty of diving sites. You can start your day with a safari or a tour of Ancient Egyptian ruins and end your day sunbathing, going off for a swim and enjoying a cool drink with sheesha while you take in the last rays of sun as it sets over the sea.

For an easy going packaged vacation, plenty of sunbathing and some of the best diving sites in the world go to the Red Sea Riviera. Water activities include plenty of water games, diving and water sports.
Take to the barren coastline of the Sinai coast and discover stunning natural wonders.

Scuba Diving in Egypt

Scuba diving in the Red Sea started in the 1950s when Greek and Italian workers began spear fishing while residing in Egypt. Explored by the Austrian zoologist Dr. Hans Hass, a well-known underwater movie maker, and the famous French diver Jacques Cousteau, the Red Sea has amazing coral reefs that are a magnet for thousands of species.

Diving has matured since then, today you’ll find fully equipped facilities, liveaboard diving, a myriad of programs and internationally certified instructors. The Red Sea resorts of Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh, Marsa Alam, El Gouna and Taba are wonderful destination that offer diving holidays packages and facilities all year round because of their moderate temperature. It doesn’t matter if you have never dived before, if you’re a beginner or a veteran, you’ll find the right program for you and you’ll surely be coming back for more.

Diving and dive centers in Egypt are managed and regulated by the Chamber of Diving and Watersports (CDWS). For more information, visit the CDWS Website.

Also visit Egypt Diving Facebook Page for more news, videos and images about diving in Egypt.

Beaches in Egypt

Egypt is the country that links Africa to Asia. Part of the Arab world, Egypt is home to famous pharaohs. Egypt has a long coast with its north coast bordering the Mediterranean sea and red sea on the side. There is also a lengthy beautiful coastline along with river Nile. There is a huge contrast between its northern coast and eastern coast. Both the coasts have a very different landscape as well as flora and fauna.

Northern coast is more than a thousand kilometre long. Its eastern coastline is famously known by the name of Red Sea Riviera. Beaches in Egypt offer everything you can dream of – be it adventurous sea sports, snorkelling, sumptuous food at the beach side, relaxing on the sun beds, scuba diving, or experiencing the natural beauty. Some of the Egypt beaches are among the world’s most luxurious beach fronts, including a number of 5 star resorts and hotels with great amenities.

Some famous beaches are Ras Abu Galoum, Dahab, El Gouna, Ras Um Sid, Mahmya Island, Taba, Ras Shitan, Hurghada, Marsa Matrouh, Marassi, Ain Sokhna, Sharks Bay Beach and Mangrove Beach.

Fun & Leisure

Whether you’re travelling alone, with your significant other, friends or with your children, there’s plenty of entertainment in Egypt to enjoy in your free time. During day time you can explore the beautiful gardens and parks of Egypt’s major cities, such as the Montazah Gardens in Alexandria and Al-Azhar Park in Cairo, or take a stroll down the Nile banks in all of Egypt’s Nile Valley destinations before stopping for lunch or dinner at one of the charming floating restaurants. You can also try felucca sailing to experience the traditional way of travelling along the Nile.

Shopping is also one of the most accessible options to fill in gaps on your holiday schedule. You’ll find anything you’re looking for in traditional souks, modern shopping malls and exclusive boutiques. You’ll find plenty of cinemas in Cairo and other major cities. You can also take your children to a theme park or let them discover more about Ancient Egypt at the Pharaonic Village in Cairo.

And when the sun goes down, it’s time for you to dress up and explore bars, nightclubs and lounges in Egypt’s top inland destinations, go for a crazy yacht party cruise on the Red Sea or indulge in a scrumptious dinner with live entertainment aboard one of the Nile dinner cruisers.

A good idea would also be to check the local events calendar at your hotel to plan a movie night out or catch an interesting spectacle at one of the towns’ theatres or opera house. One thing you must visit while in Cairo is the Opera House. The vibrant Egyptian cultural scene is constantly bursting with art exhibitions, cultural events, festivals and international musical performances.

Entertainment in Egypt comes in many flavours, find out about the different possibilities in our list of attractions.

Golf In Egypt

Golf in Egypt is a hundred year old tradition since the Gezira Sporting Club and the famous Mena House Golf course near the Giza pyramids first opened in the late 1800’s.

By the 1950’s, there were seven world class golf courses in Egypt. Golf declined and most of these courses disappeared with the changing political climate: only Mena House (under renovation), the Alexandria Sporting Club and Gezira survived the changes.

Luckily, golf in Egypt has experienced a tremendous boom over the last decade. All in all, there are 20 top-scale operational golf courses in Egypt’s major cities and European golf competitions have included Egypt among world-class golf destinations.

New real-estate developments located in the suburbs of Cairo or at a close distance from the city host amazing greens, these include the Katameya Dunes Golf Course, the Orange Lakes Golf Club, and the Allegria Golf Course, among others. Moreover, Red Sea and Sinai coastal destinations boast some of the most scenic courses to play at: Red Sea vacationers enjoy paradisiacal surroundings of crystal clear lagoons at El-Gouna Golf Course, whereas others experience what it is like to play golf on a peninsula in the amazing Cascades Golf Resort in Soma Bay.

It’s no secret that Egypt is home to some of the most fascinating archaeological sites and treasures in the world. From Abu Simbel Temple in the south to the Great Pyramids of Giza. The Valley of the Kings with its hidden tombs that were once filled with treasures, some of which can be found today in the Egyptian Museum. Egypt has no shortage of things to see and do.

However, what if you’ve already been? Or, what if you are looking for something different to see? Or maybe you just want a new way of experiencing one of these classic sites? If you are a traveller looking for something new and different, then this article is for you. Here are our top picks for the best unique travel experiences in Egypt for adventure seekers, history buffs, and those wanting a better understanding of the local Egyptian culture.

Adventure

Adventure deep into the desert; safaris to Western Desert oases, the stunning Great Sand Sea desert and the Sinai desert are engrossing adventures. Rev your engine; quad biking in the Eastern Desert is a rush. Hiking the mountains of Sinai is a gripping experience.

Camping in the White Desert is surreal. Discover the unexpected; diving from the coasts of Egypt constantly unravels underwater treasures and an abundance of undersea life. You can choose to go for German submarine and Napoleonic era warship wreck dives, coral reef diving in the Red Sea or explore underwater ruins in the Mediterranean that date back from the golden age of the pharaohs up to the reign of Cleopatra. If you don’t care to dive, but would still love to get wet, harness the wind! Kite-surfing in Safaga is adrenaline-packed fun. See our collection of adventure itineraries and attractions to start planning your very own adventure in Egypt. Get an overview of the attractions that will get your thirst for discovery quenched or your adrenaline pumping. Whether you choose to sail the Nile or go horseback riding across the mountains of Sinai, adventures in Egypt are spellbinding.

Culture

Egypt offers you a rich cultural experience that spans thousands of years of history and the continuous practice of age old traditions. Walk into the vestibules of the ancients; explore Ancient Egyptian temples, tombs and other monuments.

Get lost in time, visit museums that display thousands of ancient artifacts such as coins, ceramic art, busts of ancient emperors, mosaics, sarcophagi and mummies. Get enchanted by Ancient Egyptian myths during a sound and light show at the Temple of Philae or Abu-Simbel.

Walk along ancient bazaars to shop in a traditional atmosphere and haggle for deals. Smoke hookahs and drink tea in old cafes as you watch living history pass by as it has for centuries in Egypt. Immerse yourself in the spectacle that is Egypt.

Romance

Julius Caesar and Mark Anthony were charmed by Cleopatra and the romance of Egypt. Today, you too can share the charm of Egypt and enjoy an unforgettable romantic vacation. Imagine walking the powder-white sands of pristine Red Sea beaches. Feel the sun at your back and the sand covering your feet. Hear the waves. See the wide expanse of the sea. Now picture the two of you discovering, hand in hand, breathtaking scenery on a sensational desert tour.

Take in the heat of the day and see different desert hues as far as the eye can see until the day gives way to a moonlit night. The sound of oriental music is in the air, the stars are shining and you’re dancing by the camp fire. Lose and find yourself with your partner.

Experience a river cruise to share a seductive blend of luxury, sightseeing and intimate moments overlooking ancient Egyptian monuments while gliding gently along the dreamlike Nile River. Take pleasure in candlelit dinners with spectacular backdrops. Whether it’s a well planned honeymoon or a spontaneous winter getaway, Egypt is perfect for a romantic getaway under the brilliant sun and starry night skies of Egypt. Enjoy a captivating blend of European refinement and exotic Middle Eastern culture.

Relaxation

Sunbathe in exclusive Red Sea Riviera resorts or on the deck by a cool pool on a luxury Nile River cruise. Surrender to the comforts of world renowned spas. Walk along pristine beaches and enjoy the sight of stunning coastal cliffs in the White Med. Smoke a hookah and drink tea in old urban cafes or riverside restaurants. Try a Bedouin seaside dining experience. Enjoy a leisurely game of golf with a view to the Great Pyramids of Giza. Escape to the open spaces of Egyptian deserts.

Go for a day trip to a nearby national park to unwind in rich natural environments unique to Egypt. Don’t miss out on snorkeling in the warm waters of the Red Sea to see spectacular coral reefs. Relaxation in Egypt is effortless.

Spiritual

Retreat from the daily demands of everyday living; take a spiritual retreat to receive spiritual renewal. The stillness of ancient places of worship, the serene settings of Egypt and the calm of a few restful days are the hallmarks of a vacation that allows you to open your mind to thoughts that rarely see the light of day. Visit mosques after prayer time when the mosques are near empty to marvel at old architecture and take in some spiritual silence away from hectic streets.

Visit ancient sites of pilgrimage such as the Al Azhar Islamic complex to see the beating heart of Islamic education. Spend time in quiet contemplation, unhurried sightseeing and serenity. Visit Coptic churches, cathedrals and monasteries to discover another side of Egypt. Attend mass to witness the timeless Coptic liturgy. Go on a pilgrimage to St. Catherine’s Monastery to appreciate the origins of monasticism. Spend time absorbed in prayer, mass and silence. Reach a serene state of mind, retreat to Egypt.