Ultimate Highlights Of Egypt For An Unforgettable Trip
Egypt was a dream for us for so long, till we made it into a reality in 2022. We spent nine unforgettable days in Egypt while sailing from Aswan to Luxor, spending a night on picturesque Elephantine Island, and eventually taking a train from Luxor to Giza to be mesmerized by the enchanting sight of the Great Pyramids. Below are the main highlights for a 9 to 10-day trip in Egypt. It is a country with rich history, stunning temples, and a certain hint of mystery that is a must-see destination for any traveler.
Destinations in this blog post:LuxorPyramids of GizaAswanAbu SimbelNile River CruiseTemples of Edfu and Kom OmboElephantine Island |
Luxor
Luxor is often referred to as the “world’s greatest open-air museum” due to its vast array of ancient temples and tombs. The Karnak Temple Complex and the Luxor Temple are the major attractions in the city. We spent two nights in Luxor, which is fine for the first visit. But we loved it so much that our next visit must be longer to do justice to this amazing place. Luxor also serves as the gateway to the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens, where you can explore the royal tombs. |
Pyramids of Giza
I fall short of the appropriate words to describe our emotions when we first glanced at these monumental structures. We had seen countless documentaries and travel programs featuring the pyramids but seeing them with our own eyes was something truly magical and indescribable. |
Aswan
Aswan is a picturesque city located on the banks of the Nile River. It is known for its beautiful natural scenery and historical landmarks. The Aswan High Dam, one of the largest dams in the world, is a remarkable engineering feat. The Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, was relocated to a nearby island due to the dam’s construction and is another must-visit attraction. If you take a Nile River cruise, as we did, you will surely get the chance to marvel at the beauty of this temple. Most cruises also include a trip to the Aswan High Dam on the way to Abu Simbel. |
Abu Simbel
Abu Simbel is an archaeological site in southern Egypt. It is famous for its two massive rock temples that were carved out of the mountainside during the reign of Pharaoh Ramesses II. The Abu Simbel temples are renowned for their colossal statues and intricate carvings. The temples were also relocated to higher ground to save them from flooding caused by the construction of the Aswan High Dam. |
Nile River Cruise
A Nile River cruise is a popular way to experience the beauty and history of Egypt. Cruises typically operate between Luxor and Aswan, which allows you to sail along the Nile and visit various historical sites along the way. It offers a unique perspective of the country, passing through lush landscapes, ancient temples, and traditional villages. |
Temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo
These temples are remarkable examples of the architectural prowess and cultural significance of ancient Egypt. Visiting the temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo allowed us to delve deeper into the rich history of Egypt, marvel at the craftsmanship of the ancient Egyptians, and gain a better understanding of their complex belief system. |
Elephantine Island
Located in the Nile River in Aswan, Elephantine Island is a picturesque island with a rich history. It was an important trading center and housed various temples and fortifications. You can explore the ruins of the ancient city, visit the Nubian Museum, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the island. Elephantine Island also offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding Aswan area. We spent a night here before boarding the Nile River cruise to Luxor. Staying in a charming Nubian guesthouse and enjoying homemade local food was also one of the highlights of the whole trip. |
ConclusionThese are just a few highlights of Egypt’s rich history and cultural heritage. Exploring Egypt is like stepping back in time and experiencing the wonders of an ancient civilization. We cannot wait to visit it again and hopefully for a longer period to truly immerse ourselves into the ancient world of wonders. |