For Egyptologists, archaeologists, and history buffs alike, wondering how to visit ancient Egypt’s plethora of wonders is probably the foremost question on their minds. Although time machines don’t exist, a trip back in time is now possible with the help of careful planning and tour experiences. With preparation and knowledge, you can immerse yourself in ancient Egypt and all its architectural wonders, incredible artwork and hieroglyphs, and a unique culture that has captivated people for centuries from the Pyramids of Giza to Luxor’s Valley of the Kings. Let’s explore how you can make the most of your visit to ancient Egypt.
Visit the Pyramids of Giza & Sphinx
The Pyramids of Giza are usually at the top of lists of what to see in ancient Egypt, and for good reason. Rediscovered by Napoleon Bonaparte’s expedition in 1798, the majestic pyramids are over 4500 years old, and have remained virtually unchanged for centuries. A true wonder of the ancient and new world, the Pyramids of Giza are a must visit destination on any trip to ancient Egypt to explore history up close and personal.
The Great Pyramid of Khufu is the oldest and largest pyramid at this site; from its top, you can take in breathtaking views of Cairo and see all three pyramids that make up this complex. The Sphinx, with its mysterious half-man, half-lion façade, is another must-see attraction at the Pyramids of Giza and is said to be the guardian of this site.
These attractions are so popular that there are plenty of tours to suit your needs, from those that last one day to 14-day tours, which include plenty of other sites from ancient Egypt to modernity.
Climb Mount Sinai, the Biblical Mountain
Are you an adventurous type, wondering what to do in ancient Egypt? Climbing Mount Sinai is the perfect option for you. Located in the southern region of Egypt, Mount Sinai is a must-see for any traveler, being one of the most stunning religious sites in the country – many believe Mount Sinai is where Moses received The Ten Commandments from God. Because of this, the mountain attracts millions of pilgrims every year who come to pay their respects at this sacred site. Climbing Mount Sinai takes anywhere from one night to over two days, depending on your skill level and comfort. The views from the summit, which can reach an altitude of 2285 meters, are breathtaking and will make all your efforts worthwhile.
Many tours allow you to see Sinai in different ways, whether at night through desert camping or break of day through a breathtaking sunrise or even on the back of a camel.
Cruise on the Nile
A trip to Egypt isn’t complete without a cruise on the Nile River. The river has been integral to Egyptian life for centuries, providing much-needed water for farming and drinking. In modern times, it also serves as a source of entertainment and relaxation with its many cruises that take visitors all along the river from Luxor to Aswan. On board these cruises, you can witness stunning sunsets over the horizon while enjoying delicious meals from local chefs. You can explore sites like the Karnak Temple in Luxor and visit important archaeological sites such as Abu Simbel in Aswan, while hearing stories about the lost ancient cities that have been swallowed up by the mighty Nile over the millennia.
Many tours offer excursions to or on the Nile, such as this 5-day tour that includes an evening cruise or this 4-day tour where you see the Nile and Suez Canal from the comfort of a Cairo bazaar.
Explore Coptic Cairo
Coptic Cairo is one of the oldest parts of modern-day Egypt, and it’s a great place to explore ancient Egyptian sites. Here you can find some of the most awe-inspiring monuments from antiquity, including churches, monasteries, and mosques. The Hanging Church is particularly remarkable – built in 690 AD, its history stretches all the way back to when Christianity first arrived in Egypt. Other attractions include Ben Ezra Synagogue and Abu Serga Church – both are worth visiting for their religious significance as well as their architectural beauty.
Cairo also contains many other ancient sites that are worth exploring, such as the Nile River, Egyptian Museum, and the Cairo Citadel. The last is a fortress that was built in 1176 by Saladin to protect the city from invading forces, and it still stands today.
The Great Pyramids of Giza are also nearby – if you were wondering how far Giza is from Cairo, it’s only about an hour away. These iconic monuments were constructed over 4500 years ago and remain some of the most impressive surviving structures from antiquity.
If you want the opportunity to see any and all of these sites, a four-day tour might be the best for you, or you can take any of these Cairo tours to get a taste of antiquity.
Visit Tombs of Ancient Pharaohs in Luxor
Luxor is one of the most popular destinations for visitors to ancient Egypt, with its grand temples and monuments that have remained preserved since their construction around 1400 BC. The Valley of the Kings, located on the west bank of Luxor, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to 63 ancient Egypt tombs belonging to some of their wealthiest kings and nobles.
Pharaoh Amenhotep III built the Temple of Luxor in 1380 BC, which features stunning murals, hieroglyphs, obelisks, and statues depicting ancient Egyptian gods. The Karnak Temples – an imposing complex of temples, pylons, and sphinxes built by pharaohs over thousands of years – are also here. There are tours for those who’d like to see Luxor and Cairo and some that also include the city of Aswan, which boasts impressive and oft-overlooked ancient temples.
Make History with your Next Trip
Whether you’re looking to explore the ancient ruins of Egypt or just want to get away from it all and experience something new, a trip to Egypt is unforgettable. So grab your passport and get ready for an adventure like no other in the ancient sites of Egypt – no time machine necessary. We offer tours that feature the iconic sites mentioned in this article and many more with options to fit your budget, timeline, and interests. Look at our tours of Ancient Egypt, learn some ancient Egypt tips, and plan your trip today!
