Top Things to Do in Cairo, Egypt—What Is There to Do in Egypt?
When it comes to things to do in Cairo, Egypt, most tour packages feature Egypt tours to the Giza pyramids, Mount Sinai hiking expeditions, and Luxor Temple tours. However, the list of safari activities in Egypt goes beyond that!
Here are the best things to do in Cairo, Egypt for tourists on Egypt tours in Africa:
Exploring Giza Pyramids and Sphinx
The Giza Pyramids are among the top iconic sights on Earth and key attractions in Egypt. History has it that the Pyramids of Giza were built about 5000 years ago.
Egypt’s Great Pyramid of Giza is the oldest of the three on the Giza plateau, and sometimes it’s referred to as the Pyramid of Khufu or the Pyramid of Cheops. Among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, this pyramid is the oldest, having been constructed in 2570 BC. It is, in fact, the only Ancient Wonder that is still mostly intact.
Usually, travelers take about 3 hours to explore these pyramids. Adventurous travelers can go inside these mighty pyramids of ancient Egypt. Don’t miss taking photos of the Great Sphinx of Giza, a massive limestone statue of a sphinx with a lion’s body and a human head.
The Great Sphinx of Giza is the world’s oldest and biggest sculpture. It was built to guard the 3 pyramids of Giza.
On this tour, you’ll find local guides who
Visit the Valley of Ancient Egyptian Kings
A visit to the Valley of Kings in Luxor (on the west bank of the River Nile) is among the best adventure activities in Egypt.
Due to the captivating rich history of the Valley of Kings, it has become one of the most prominent ancient sites in the world where you can discover ancient Egyptian culture.
On your adventure in this amazing site of ancient Egypt, you’ll explore magnificently adorned tombs for the pharaohs who governed Egypt between 1539 and 1075 BC. Therefore, this sacred historical place is simply a royal burial cemetery for pharaohs.
Within the Valley of Kings, there are about 63 tombs but only a few are accessible for tourists.
If time allows, don’t miss out on exploring the Valley of Queens. It’s also a significant revered site holding the history of Egypt. Here, you’ll discover tombs for queens of pharaohs and even the royal children.
In all these deified sites, you’ll find knowledgeable local guides who share with visitors the history attached to these places.
Adventure Activities to Do in Egypt: Hike Mount Sinai Summit
Biblically, Mount Sinai is the site where God gave Moses the 10 commandments. This mythical mountain for Christians and Muslims in Sharm el-Sheikh rises over 2,285m above sea level.
Hiking up to the peak of Mount Sinai with a guide is the finest way to explore this sacred mountain. Hikers typically begin their journeys early in the morning and arrive at the summit before dawn.
All hikes to the summit of Mount Sinai begin at Saint Catherine’s Monastery, a Greek Orthodox Church believed to be among the world’s oldest Christian monasteries.
Often, tourists to hike Mount Sinai stay in Sharm El Sheikh or Dahab.
After hiking Mount Sinai, you should go and relax on attractive beaches on the coast of the Indian Ocean to explore sea life as well.
Note: It’s wise to do some physical exercise to raise your physical fitness level before you take this hike.
Famous Tourist Activities in Egypt: Explore Abu Simbel Temples in Southern Egypt
An adventure to explore the Abu Simbel Temples of ancient Egypt on the banks of Lake Nasser shouldn’t be missed on your list of leisure activities in Egypt.
These massive temples were built in the year 1280 BC by Pharaoh Ramses II. Amazingly, these two enormous temples were cut out of a rock and each is dedicated to ancient Egyptian gods, for example, Ptah and Ra-Horakhty.
Views of these ancient Egyptian temples will leave you with memorable memories about ancient Egyptian architecture. It’s possible to visit these incredible ancient Egyptian temples on a day trip from Cairo
Fun Things to Do in Cairo, Egypt: Visit the Mummification Museum in Luxor to See Mummies
You should absolutely visit the Mummification Museum if you’d like to learn more about the technique of mummification, which the Egyptians were experts at.
Egypt’s Mummification Museum features several royal mummies but the most popular ones include a mummy of Queen Hatshapsut and that of Ramses II. Also, you should explore Amenhotep II mummy, which was discovered in 1898.
In this wonderful museum, you’ll see both mummies of humans and animals (like Crocodiles, cats, dogs, and jackals), as well as items used in the mummification process.
Undertake Ancient Egypt Tours in Historic Cairo
The capital city of Egypt is Cairo. It’s an integral part of Egypt, holding towering skyscrapers standing side by side, various historical sites, as well as ancient Egyptian mosques & Roman ruins. On this adventure, you’ll discover the well-being and social status of Egyptians. There are different social classes, of course!
Here are the main areas to explore in the Egyptian ancient city of Cairo:
i).COPTIC CAIRO
There are various attractions to discover in Coptic Cairo, within the Southern region of Cairo.
Within this city, you’ll get a chance to explore landmarks of ancient Egypt like the Hanging Church, Coptic Orthodox Church, the earliest mosque constructed in Africa, etc. Some features of ancient Egypt can be visited from here as well.
ii).ISLAMIC CAIRO
Popularly, the Islamic Cairo is known for holding the largest and most amazing treasures of Islamic architecture globally.
On your visit, you’ll visit mosques such as Salah El-Din Citadel, Al-Rifa’i, Al Azhar, and even Khan el Khalili Bazaar- a prominent market for tourists for shopping.
With a local guide, you’ll enjoy walking on bustling streets and even fall in love with the wonderful Egyptian style of building. Don’t end your adventure without visiting art galleries or tasting out a local dish (food) in local restaurants.
A visit during religious festivals (religious ceremonies) will give you a unique and amazing experience.
Undertake Quad Biking in a Desert Around Giza Pyramids
Quad biking within the stunning open desert around the Giza Pyramids is among thrilling adventure and leisure activities in Egypt to undertake. As you ride into the huge desert and take in the breathtaking views of the Pyramids, you’ll race your way up and down the sand dunes.
Weekends and holidays are when the drivers turn the desert into an adventure, showcasing their incredible skill at riding bikes through the dunes. It’s a memorable experience for adventure travelers on Egypt tours.
Interesting Leisure Activities in Egypt: Enjoy a Cruise on the River Nile
Exploring the Nile River on top of your ancient Egyptian tours gives you a golden opportunity to explore one of the key attractions in Egypt. The Nile (the world’s longest river) was vital to the ancient Egyptians up to date.
During the boat cruise in the scenic Nile Valley, you will sail past ancient Egyptian tombs and beautiful temples. The ride is between Aswan and Luxor and takes you to explore Kim, Esna, and Ombo, as well as Edfu Temple.
In most cases, travelers undertake the morning cruise or the sunset Nile cruise, which is ideal for photo shooting.
For a great experience on your trip in Egypt, it’s possible to swim in designated, safer areas.
Amazing Egypt Things to Do: Scuba Diving into Red Sea
One of the best places in the world to enjoy water diving is the Red Sea. This sea holds exciting coral reefs as well as crystal-clear waters, and it’s possible to explore various shipwrecks in the area.
A resort such as Hurghada is also wonderful for underwater experiences.
Exploring the Karnak Great Temple
Exploring the Karnak Temple is also among the most amazing adventures and leisure activities in Egypt. Famously, this ancient Egyptian attraction is known for its astounding size and magnificence.
It’s a great site for travelers with an interest in learning about the wonderful history of the ancient Egyptians—the pharaohs.
Karnak Temple is a great ancient Egyptian site (integral part) with several breathtaking temples, cathedrals, and chapels, as well as other amazing ancient Egyptian buildings built over 2000 years ago.
On this adventure, several visitors explore the most striking Temple of Amun-Ra. A local tour is available to walk you through the rich history of this ancient Egyptian site.
Exploring the Museum of Egypt
On your vacation in Egypt, visiting the museum is the best way to explore most of the wonderful history of ancient Egypt. This is because this museum displaces an array of cultural heritage of the ancient Egyptians and it’s among the world’s oldest museums worth touring.
The Tutankhamun tomb and the Royal Mummies exhibitions are among the Egyptian Museum’s golden treasures, despite the fact that it offer a variety of other attractions. As you enter the atrium, you’ll find a statue of Ramses II; his king’s reign became known globally.
All galleries in this ancient Egyptian museum are divided into 4 eras: the Old Kingdom, the New Kingdom, Prehistory, and even the Predynastic era of ancient Egyptians.
Expect to see over 100, 000 artifacts (various objects) that belonged to King Tut, one of the pharaohs of ancient Egypt.
More Interesting Activities in Egypt During Your Egypt Tours
- Exploring Oases in the White Desert: Here, you can enjoy water sports, including swimming
- Visiting the tombs of nobles in Egypt
- Enjoy Hot air balloon rides over the Nile Valley
- Visit the Magic Lake in Fayoum
- Undertaking dinner with Nubians
- Exploring Alexandria Library. Here, you’ll discover some amazing intellectual pursuits of ancient Egyptians
- Visit the Avenue of Sphinxes
- Explore the Avenue of Sphinxes; also here, you’ll learn more about the life of ancient Egyptians
- Discover the Valley of Artisans to see a vast collection of works of the ancient Egyptians- artisans
- Discovering the unfinished obelisk. This unfinished obelisk is found in the north of the stone quarries of ancient Egypt, within the Aswan region
FAQs About Leisure Activities in Egypt and Africa
What Is Egypt Famous for?
The country of Egypt is most famous for its ancient Egyptian sites, for instance, the towering Giza Pyramids.
Still, tourists on Egypt tours will get a chance to explore the temples of the ancient Egyptians and normally the Luxor Temple is visited. Egypt’s rich history about the ancient Egyptian pharaohs is worth exploring. Don’t miss listening to ancient Egyptian music (or ancient Egyptian entertainment or sports).
What Should We Do in Egypt?: What to Do If You Go to Egypt?: What to Do If You Go to Egypt?
The list of leisure activities in Egypt is quite long; however, on your Egypt tours, don’t miss the opportunity to explore Giza Pyramids.
Also, the other amazing adventures include Egypt tours to explore the life of the ancient Egyptians at Luxor Temple or the Valley of Kings of ancient Egypt. At these sites, you can listen to ancient Egyptian music or ancient Egyptian entertainment, including board games and sports.
More so, adventurous travelers can undertake a hike to the mythical Mount Sinai or a cruise on the Nile, etc.
Don’t miss relaxing at Red Sea resorts, where you’ll enjoy water sports and even other sports, including popular board games and ancient Egyptian games and sports. The common board game/board game, or sport, in Egypt is the senet boards.
What Can You Do in Egypt Other Than the Pyramids?
Egypt tours go beyond exploring the mighty Giza Pyramids. On your adventure in Egypt, you’ll enjoy a golden opportunity to visit some of the ancient Egyptian temples that were built in the early years of BC for instance, the Luxor Temple. At the temples, you can watch some ancient Egyptian entertainment.
Also, you can cruise on the Nile River, hike Mount Sinai, explore the stunning white wilderness in the Sahara Desert, or visit the Valley of Kings. In the Valley of Kings, you’ll encounter beautiful tombs of the kings of ancient Egypt.
What is Special in Egypt?: What Is the Most Special Thing in Egypt?: What Is the Most Famous Thing in Egypt?
The most special things in Egypt are the massive Giza Pyramids, built by ancient Egyptian pharaohs.
Other popular tourist attractions in Egypt include the numerous ancient Egyptian temples; for example, the Luxor Temple on the eastern bank of the Nile, where you’ll even watch the ancient Egyptian entertainment. The ancient Egyptian entertainment included mostly music and dance.
Is Egypt Affordable to Visit? : Is Egypt Cheap or Expensive?
Egypt is a cheaper country to visit in comparison with destinations such as Japan, Europe, Australia, and North America. The cost of traveling in Southeast Asia is almost comparable to that of traveling through Egypt.
Therefore, whether you’re on a tight budget in Egypt, you’ll see and do a lot of things in Egypt on your vacation. Among these are ancient Egyptian entertainment and some cultural immersion.
Is Egypt a Friendly Place to Visit? Is It a Good Idea to Go to Egypt? Is Egypt Worth Visiting?
Without doubt, Egypt is a friendly place to visit. Tourists visiting Egypt have a chance to explore wonderful landmarks of the ancient Egyptians for instance, the Giza Pyramids, one of the most amazing features of the ancient world.
Additionally, tourists on Egypt tours will explore several astounding ancient Egyptian temples, which hold a rich history about ancient Egyptians. Expect to explore numerous historical sites, including some in the Bible, such as Mount Sinai. Some thrilling ancient Egyptian entertainment can be enjoyed as well.
Is Egypt Good for Tourists? : Is Egypt a Good Place for a Holiday?
The captivating rich history, fabled landmarks of the ancient Egyptians, and even the breathtaking landscape make this country a great site for tourists.
During your Egypt tours, you’ll visit the stunning ancient Egyptian Pyramids, wonderful temples, and several historical sites, including Mount Sinai, where Moses got the 10 commandments.
Expect several adventure opportunities in Egypt for instance, snorkeling in the Red Sea. In this country, other leisure activities include ancient Egyptian games (ancient Egyptian entertainment) like board games or ball games/sports. The most popular board game/board games in Egypt is the senet board.
What Were Ancient Egyptian Activities? What Did People Do for Fun in Egypt? What recreational activities did the ancient Egyptians engage in?
The popular sport (ancient Egyptian entertainment) for ancient Egyptians were fishing, wrestling, and boxing, mostly at the king’s coronation ceremony.
Other sports for leisure time in ancient Egypt included javelin-throwing, field hockey, weightlifting, rowing competitions on the Nile, and even gymnastics.
What Did Kids Do for Fun in Ancient Egypt?
In ancient Egyptian culture, a child was considered to be a productive adult member at an early age.
Some time outdoors, games/sports were prepared for them and usually they could go swimming in the Nile River.
Other games (sports) for a healthy childhood among the children of ancient Egyptians for leisure time included dancing and wrestling. Board games could be possible for genius kids. Board sports are challenging to play as they have opposing side’s pieces.
The other popular sport for children in ancient Egypt included playing with dolls as well as animal toys with moveable jaws for example, a mechanical dog. In the same way, they could also play some musical instruments on top of the popular sport activities.
What Is Unique About Cairo, Egypt?
Egypt Cairo City is mainly known for its Giza Pyramids, one of the remaining ancient world wonders. In this city, you’ll even encounter the Valley of Kings (holding tombs of the ancient Egyptian kings) and even the mummification museum. It’s also among the biggest Islamic cities in the world, with wonderful mosques.
What is the main festival in Egypt?
The Heb Sed Festival is the most popular in Egypt. It’s among the oldest banquets in ancient Egypt, celebrated after thirty years by the king to celebrate his military victories.
How Many Days in Egypt Is Enough? : How Many Days Do You Need in Egypt? How Long to Spend in Egypt?
5-7 days can be enough for Egypt tours in Africa. Travelers in these days will get a chance to visit the main attractions of Egypt, such as the Pyramids of Giza, Cairo, the Grand Museum of Egypt , Mount Sinai, and numerous temples, for example, the Luxor Temple. A hike to Mount Sinai needs some physical fitness!
What to Do in Egypt for a Week?
Tourists touring Egypt for a week can explore several amazing landmarks from ancient Egypt. On your week-long trip to Egypt, you can tour the Giza Pyramids, the Valley of Kings, the Nile Valley, and even the ancient Egyptian Museum, among others.
Is It Safe to Travel to Egypt? Is Traveling to Egypt Safe? Is Egypt Safe for Tourists?
Egypt is a rather safe country, although it’s normally not advisable for a female traveler to walk alone at night. While in tourism places in Egypt, take extra precautions as pickpocketing can happen in crowded areas.
The same way, as a visitor, respect the local culture and try to dress decently (ladies should cover arms and knees), specifically while visiting mosques and churches.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Egypt?: What Is the Best Month to Go to Egypt?
The best time to go for Egypt tours is in the cooler months of October through March. Usually, in these months, the weather is perfect for exploring Egypt’s top sights, including the Giza Pyramids, ancient Egyptian temples, and the Nile in the south of Egypt.
December and January are the busiest travel months for travelers. Egypt is experiencing a surge in tourism during this season, so make sure you book in advance.
What to Pack for Egypt Tours? : What to Pack for a Trip to Egypt?
While going on Egypt tours, you should at least pack some trip essentials. We advise our clients to come with sunscreens, a packbag, a sunhat, scarves, and even a power adapter. Comfortable hiking shoes are also vital.
Do I need a visa to go to Egypt?
Several nationals coming for Egypt tours in Egypt need to have a visa. It’s possible to apply for an Egypt visa online and this is what most travelers coming for holidays in Egypt do. It’s possible to get it on arrival but we don’t recommend this to avoid delays.
Though there are many, the best activities on Egypt tours include Giza pyramid adventures, hikes to Mount Sinai, and exploring wonderful ancient temples. Let’s explore the amazing landmarks of ancient Egypt together for a remarkable holiday experience in Africa. Email our friendly team with anything about African safari Egypt tours.
