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Egypt’s biggest draws are its dazzling ancient sites (pyramids, tombs, palaces, etc.). Tickets for most of these sites can be purchased through a tour operator or at your hotel.
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The Citadel This enclosed, 12th-century fortress city easily takes a day to explore. It encompasses both the massive Muhammed ‘Ali Mosque (an integral part of the city skyline) and the National Military Museum. Islamic Cairo South; al-Qala’a, Shar’a Salish Salem
Giza The three Great Pyramids: Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure as well as the mythical Great Sphinx, await visitors to this desert area just outside Cairo. 011-20-2336-9700
Egyptian Antiquities Museum Explore significant artifacts – organized in chronological order – from Egypt’s history, particularly the Pharaonic age. Most notable is the collection from the interior of King Tut’s tomb on the upper floor. Downtown Cairo; Maydan Tala’at Harb; 011-20-2-578-2448; www.emuseum.gov.eg
Mosque of Ibn Tulum Built by Ahmad Ibn Tulum in 885, this six-acre mosque has a large courtyard and a minaret which visitors can climb courtesy of the zig-zag stairs. Islamic Cairo South; Shar’a Tulum
Al-Kaneesah Al-Mu’allaqah (the Hanging Church) One of the most breathtaking churches in Cairo, this 4th-century masterpiece has eight Corinthian columns, a pulpit surrounded by 15 marble columns, and a screen made of ebony and ivory. Coptic Cairo; Shar’a Mari Girgis
Museum of Islamic Arts Boasting one of the finest collections of Islamic art in the world, this museum displays ceramics, metal, textiles, and paintings from different periods in Islamic history. Islamic Cairo South; Shar’a Bur Sa’id at Maydan Ahmad Maher; 011-20-2-390-9930
Pyramids of Giza Rise early and beat the crowds to tour the iconic Sphinx and the Pyramids of Giza, built over 4,000 years ago. On the south side of the Great Pyramid, don’t miss the Solar Barque Museum, which showcases a reconstructed funerary boat. 011-20-2-33-838-823; www.egypt.travel
The Pharaonic Village A short drive outside of Cairo, this family-friendly theme park has reproductions of ancient Egyptian monuments, complete with actors playing the part of a Pharaoh and his court. 3 El Bahr El Aazam St.; 011-20-2-35-71-8675; www.touregypt.net/village
Valley of the Kings One could easily spend a day trekking through this famous necropolis. For 500 years, between the 16th and 11th centuries BC, Egyptian kings were buried in this hot and arid valley. Pick your tombs carefully as a ticket is only valid for three tombs (62 to choose from, but Tuthmosis III, Seti and Ramses VI are three of the best). A separate ticket is needed for the tomb of Tutankhamen. Nile Valley; www.touregypt.net/kingtomb.htm
Karnak Located in Luxor and buried under the sands of the Sahara for over 1,000 years, Karnak is still being excavated. The astounding complex includes the Temple to Amun, Great Hypostyle Hall with its famed gigantic columns, and the colorful festival temple. www.touregypt.net/karnak.htm
Luxor Temple Begun during the 14th century BC and later modified by Alexander the Great in the 4th century BC, this temple is usually open late, so come at sunset when the building is bathed in golden sunlight. Notice the single obelisk guarding the entrance. The second one is now in the Place de la Concorde in Paris. Corniche el-Nil; www.egypt.travel
Hot air balloon ride An aerial tour of Luxor and the Valley of the Kings is a great way to gain perspective on the geography of this culturally rich region. Balloons depart at dawn for a 50-minute tour. Magic Horizon Balloons, Ohed St., off TV St.; 011-20-3-95-365-060; www.magic-horizon.com
Egyptian Exploration Society Join this well-respected British archeological society for a minimal fee (about US$22) and sign up for one of their archeological digs at various sites throughout Egypt. The British Council, 192 Sharia el-Nil; 011-202-33-00-1886; www.ees.ac.uk
Golf near the pyramids Tee up on one of Egypt’s best golf courses under the watchful gaze of the Great Pyramid. Mena House Oberoi, Pyramids Rd.; 011-20-2-33-77-3222; www.oberoimenahouse.com
Horseback riding If you’re up for a tour of the pyramids the old fashioned way, hire a horse and guide at MG Stables to take you around Giza, or take a five-hour ride to Saqqara to see the ancient step pyramid. MG Stables, Sharia Abu al-Houl; 011-20-2-33-85-3832
Snorkeling and scuba diving The Red Sea is well known for its spectacular array of coral and fish. Go on a dive safari with Aquarius Diving or enjoy a more leisurely snorkeling adventure. Aquarius Diving, Hurghada Marriott Beach Resort, El Corniche Rd.; 011-20-65-344-6950; www.marriott.com
Cruise the Nile Taking a full vacation on a boat up the Nile is a great way to experience the monuments and daily life of the Egyptians. If you don’t have the time, take a sunset float on a felucca (ancient Egyptian sailing vessel). Thomas Cook can arrange such tours, but the easiest way is just to make arrangements through your hotel upon arrival. Thomas Cook, 17 Sharia Mahmoud Bassiouni; www.thomascook.com
