Top 5 Things to do in Egypt
Now that fall is officially here and everyone has their winter holiday plans on their minds Egypt can expect a whole helping of fresh bookings for the winter moths from British travellers. Egypt's ancient sights, beaches, crazy cities and desert dunes attract thousands upon thousands every winter. If you're heading to this African country for holidays this year, these are five things you cannot miss while you're there!
1. Temple of Karnak
This temple is part of Luxor and the sheer size of it will definitely impress you. The temple covers a whopping 200 acres and was built more than 2,000 years ago. It is the largest temple in Egypt is considerably well maintained given its age. Tip for photographers, try visiting in the late afternoon when the temperature is cooler and the light is dynamic and golden.
2. Scuba diving in Hurghada
Egypt is known for its great diving sights and Hurghada is one of the best. Particularly cool is the sunken ship but there are countless cool places to explore under the water off the coast here. The reefs attract a rainbow of fish like goatfish, banners, butterfly fish and snappers.
3. Souks in Hurghada
Across northern Africa the souks are a real attraction for Western visitors because there's simply nothing like them at home. Make your way through the narrow, winding streets lined with merchants selling everything from towering pyramids of colouful spices and power dyes to leather or silk purses and slippers. Jewellery and small rugs are the perfect souvenirs, just make sure you barter for a fair price.
4. Mummy Museum
The Mummification Museum is located in the heart of Luxor and cannot be missed. The museum collection is small but it takes you through the entire process of mummification which was the normal procedure thousands of years ago for the rich and famous. Egyptians believed that following certain rituals would give them access to an afterlife. Many tools used during the procedures are on display here, including the one used to pull out the brain through the nose...!
5. Sinai Mountain
If you're in Sharm el Sheikh then Sinai Mountain is a great place to spend a day or overnight. Travel up the mountain on foot, camel or even quad-bike. Taking a tour guide up with you will definitely make the experience more rich. If you stay over night in a Bedouin-style caravan, the stargazing is unlike anywhere else in the world. There is absolutely no light pollution here.
Will you spend your winter holidays in Egypt? Where do you like to getaway for some winter sun?