Wonders of Egypt: Best 21 things to do

Egypt’s extraordinary historical sites, like the iconic Pyramids of Giza, often take centre stage, leaving many visitors unaware of the country’s other remarkable things to do. 

While 95% of Egypt is desert, its vast, enchanting landscapes often go unnoticed. Similarly, the Red Sea, renowned worldwide for its exceptional diving, freediving, and vibrant marine life, is frequently overlooked by those who never even dip a toe into its stunning turquoise waters.
Don’t make the same mistake!

This guide highlights the best things to do in Egypt, crafted by someone who has spent two years living in and exploring this fascinating and often misunderstood country in depth.

When is the best time to visit Egypt? 

The first thing you need to know about Egypt’s weather is that it gets extremely HOT, and you won’t want to drag yourself around temples, drenched in sweat, during this time. 

The summer months, from May to September, see temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F). While crowds are thinner and prices are typically lower, most of your excursions will need to be in the early morning or evening to avoid the heat. 

The best time to visit Egypt is during the cooler months, from October to April. This period offers pleasant weather with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), making it ideal for exploring the country's iconic landmarks, such as the Pyramids of Giza, Luxor's temples, and the bustling streets of Cairo. 

How many days in Egypt is enough? 

Many travellers fly into Cairo, spend a few days exploring the Pyramids, and then head straight back home.

While Cairo has its charm, the best of Egypt lies beyond the capital. In just one week, you can cover Egypt’s historical highlights in Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. However, by sticking to this itinerary, you’ll miss the surreal beauty of the desert landscapes and the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea.

Our 10-day Wonders of Egypt tour ensures you experience the country’s best offerings, highlighting its culture, cuisine and local people. 

If time allows, we recommend spending at least two weeks in Egypt. This gives you the opportunity to explore the iconic historical sites while also venturing to the Sinai Peninsula, where you can unwind and soak up the relaxed charm of largely unknown beach towns like Nuweiba and Dahab.

Is Egypt safe? 

It's unfortunate that, instead of asking about the food or the culture, one of the first questions people ask before visiting Egypt is whether it’s safe.

While it's true that visitors may encounter persistent salespeople, occasional catcalling, and scams targeting tourists, these issues are only representative of a small minority of the population. 

Egyptians are renowned for their legendary hospitality, with many going out of their way to help. In fact, one of their greatest traits – and sometimes a downfall – is their inability to say no!

Egypt welcomes millions of tourists each year, and as long as you stick to popular tourist areas, you're unlikely to encounter serious issues.

Is Egypt safe for solo female travellers?

Having travelled extensively around Egypt and lived there on and off for two years, I can say that how safe you feel really depends on where you are.

Personally, I felt completely safe living in Dahab, a small beach town on the Sinai Peninsula. I’d walk home at night without a second thought, which I wouldn't do in Cairo.

In larger cities like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan, you’ll attract more attention – whether it's someone trying to sell you something or a man commenting on your appearance. Most of these interactions are harmless, but it's important to acknowledge that sexual harassment, while not common, can happen.

Being a solo female traveller shouldn’t deter you from visiting Egypt. Our advice is to assess your environment, ask for local recommendations on safe areas, and walk with confidence.

Bonus tip: Mastering the phrase ‘La shokran’ (no thank you) will quickly become your best friend. A little effort in speaking Arabic goes a long way and will earn you respect.

Still feeling nervous about visiting Egypt solo? Join our Wonders of Egypt tour and explore the country alongside like-minded women. 

What is the number one attraction in Egypt?

Many blogs claim the Pyramids of Giza are the top attraction in Egypt, but we beg to differ. 

While the pyramids are undoubtedly awe-inspiring as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, there’s another historical site in Egypt that we think is equally, if not more, unmissable: The Valley of the Kings.

Located in Luxor, this sacred burial ground is the final resting place of pharaohs, queens, and high priests of Ancient Egypt. The tombs are remarkably well-preserved, with vibrant hieroglyphics boasting stunning blues, reds, and yellows that have survived for over 3,000 years.

It’s truly mind-blowing to think that these ancient tombs, built between 1539 BC and 1075 BC, have endured the test of time and still retain such vivid detail.

Top things to do in Egypt

1. Pyramids of Giza

‍‍One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Pyramids of Giza, is one of the main reasons people travel to Egypt. Over 14 million people visit them every year. 

When you see these other-worldly structures in real life, you, too, will start to believe in the theory that aliens built them. It’s hard to wrap your head around the idea that an ancient civilisation built these towering pyramids — the tallest is over 138 metres (454 feet).

2. Valley of the Kings

‍We’ve already made our feelings clear about the Valley of the Kings – it’s absolutely spectacular!

With 65 tombs already discovered, you'd think that would be impressive enough, but new tombs are still being uncovered, with the latest discovery made in 2023. 

Deciding which tombs to visit can feel overwhelming, so we highly recommend exploring with a guide who can offer expert advice, joining our Wonders of Egypt tour, or doing some research on your own.

Your entrance ticket includes access to three tombs, but we strongly suggest paying the extra fee to visit the tombs of Ramses V and VI.

3. Freediving in Dahab 

‍You may recognise Dahab from Netflix’s documentary The Deepest Breath.

While Dahab has gained fame within the freediving community, it remains largely unknown to the wider world. 

Freediving in Dahab is rapidly growing in popularity, and it’s easy to see why—this idyllic beach town boasts incredible water visibility, impressive depths just off the shore, and the world-famous Blue Hole, making it one of the top destinations for freediving enthusiasts.

4. Scuba diving in the Red Sea‍

Egypt is a mecca for scuba divers thanks to the exceptional Red Sea, home to over 300 coral species and 1,000 fish species. 

There are plenty of spots to enjoy Egypt’s underwater world, including Dahab, Sharm el Sheikh, Hurghada, El Gouna and Marsa Alam.

Not only is the diving experience world-class, but Egypt also offers some of the most affordable prices for fun dives and diving courses compared to other popular diving destinations around the globe.

5. Sailing the River Nile 

‍The River Nile is the lifeblood of Egypt. There’s no better way to truly experience its magic than by sailing along its waters for a night or two.

Two great options are boarding a river cruise ship or taking a traditional felucca boat. 

If you prefer a more peaceful, intimate experience away from the crowds, we highly recommend opting for the felucca – as we do on our 10-day Egypt trip.

6. Black and White Desert

‍Swap the chaos of Cairo for the silence of the desert. An overnight adventure to the Black and White Desert is a rare experience many overlook due to time constraints — don’t make that mistake!

In the White Desert, vast sand dunes stretch into the horizon, dotted with striking white rock formations shaped like mushrooms, animals, and other surreal structures. Meanwhile, the Black Desert offers a stark contrast, where dark volcanic rocks create a dramatic landscape against the rugged terrain.

Most tours include a traditional BBQ and an unforgettable camping experience under a canopy of stars.

Do this as part of our Wonders of Egypt tour.

7. Abu Simbel Temple 

‍Abu Simbel is a 13th-century BC temple home to magnificent 20-metre (66-foot) statues of Ramses and his wife, exquisite hieroglyphics, and ancient tombs.

We can’t decide what’s more impressive – the temple’s impressive design or the engineering marvel behind its relocation. In the 1960s, the entire temple was moved to higher ground to prevent it from being flooded by the construction of the Aswan High Dam on the River Nile. 

Prepare for an early morning and a long drive as Abu Simbel is 4 hours from Aswan – the most popular place to visit from. 

8. Luxor Temple‍

Luxor Temple is so much more than the world’s best view from a McDonald's – even if you’re not a fast food fan, it’s worth it for the view. 

This mesmerising temple was built over several decades, beginning around 1390 BCE and ending around 1213 BCE, under the watch of multiple pharaohs, including Amenhotep III, Tutankhamun, and Rameses II. 

It’s iconic for its towering 42-metre (137 ft) obelisk and intricately carved maze of columns. 

9. Karnak Temple‍

Luxor is bursting with fascinating historical sites and Karnak Temple is one of the largest and most impressive, not just in the city, but in Egypt.

Primarily dedicated to the god Amun-Ra, this vast temple complex boasts colossal columns, exquisite carvings, and the iconic Hypostyle Hall. Its grandeur is unmatched, leaving you to ponder the ultimate question: which temple’s columns reign supreme — Luxor or Karnak?

10. Nubian Village ‍

Experience a different side of Egyptian culture in Aswan’s Nubian Village, home to an indigenous group with deep roots in southern Egypt and northern Sudan, renowned for their distinct language, customs, and rich cultural heritage. 

The village itself feels like a living canvas, with its homes painted in bold, vibrant colours and intricate patterns.

On our Wonders of Egypt trip, we spend two nights with a Nubian family, getting to know their culture and a taste of their unique cuisine. 

11. Alexandria‍

A 4-hour drive from Cairo, Alexandria, can be a day or overnight trip. You don’t need much time to explore Egypt’s second-largest city, but it’s worth the trip. 
This historic Mediterranean port is known for its ancient wonders like the Great Library and the Lighthouse of Pharos. Don’t make the mistake of looking for them, though. They no longer exist. 

Alexandria also played a pivotal role in early Christianity, a legacy still woven into the city’s culture and landmarks.

12. Historic Cairo ‍

Home to over 10 million people, Cairo is a city of striking contrasts, with each neighbourhood offering a distinct and vibrant character.
Step into the historic heart of Cairo, and it’s easy to forget the fancy new malls and trendy coffee shops. 

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this area is a living testament to Egypt’s rich Islamic heritage, showcased through magnificent mosques, centuries-old madrasas, and the bustling, treasure-filled markets of Khan el-Khalili.

13. Step Pyramid‍

Fancy escaping the crowds of the Pyramids of Giza and visiting something equally significant?

Head to Saqqara, home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser—the world’s first pyramid, dating back to the 27th century BC.

Designed by the architect Imhotep for Pharaoh Djoser, its innovative stepped design marked the beginning of Egypt's iconic pyramid construction.

14. Grand Egyptian Museum‍

You decide whether the Grand Egyptian Museum was worth the wait. After two decades of delays, it has finally opened its doors, showcasing over 15,000 pieces. 

And it’s still not done! When the museum is finally complete, it will be the largest archaeological museum in the world, boasting over 100,000 items.

15. Nuweiba ‍

Just a 2-hour drive from the bustling resort town of Sharm El Sheikh, Nuweiba offers a serene escape that feels worlds apart from the flashy all-inclusive hotels and souvenir shops.

This tranquil coastal haven is dotted with simple, rustic beach camps where relaxation and unplugging are the focus. 

Many of these camps are owned by Bedouins, the nomadic people who have called this region home for centuries. Here, you can expect endless cups of traditional Bedouin tea and a tasty Bedouin-style BBQ under the stars.

16. Mount Sinai ‍

An unmissable experience in Egypt’s Sinai peninsula is climbing Mount Sinai – a sacred biblical site revered in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, where Moses received the Ten Commandments. 

Standing at 2,285 meters (7,497 feet), it offers unparalleled views. Sacrificing a night of sleep hiking to the top of Mount Sinai to witness the sunrise illuminating the valley below is undoubtedly worth it. 

After your descent, if you still have enough energy, pop into St Catherine’s monastery at the mountain’s base, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest functioning monasteries in the world.

17. Kitesurfing in Dahab‍

Finding a destination that offers so many adventure sports while remaining under the radar is rare. Dahab is a hub for activities like kitesurfing, windsurfing, scuba diving, freediving, rock climbing, and more. 

This Egyptian beach town is so good for kitesurfing that Red Bull’s Wings of Sinai kitesurfing competition is hosted here. 

For the ultimate experience, head to Blue Lagoon—a slice of paradise where the winds are as legendary as the scenery.

18. Valley of the Queens‍

Throughout history, women have often been overshadowed by men — and the Valley of the Queens is no exception. Many visitors bypass this remarkable site, favouring the more famous Valley of the Kings.

The tombs in the Valley of the Kings are indeed grander, as more resources and time were devoted to the final resting places of the pharaohs.

However, the Valley of the Queens holds its own treasures, with over 60 tombs, including the stunning tomb of Queen Nefertari. Built in 1290 BC by Ramses II for his beloved wife, it is the most famous tomb in the valley, descending an impressive 27 meters and adorned with vividly preserved artwork that celebrates her importance and beauty.

19. Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut‍

Queen Hatshepsut was a badass and a perfect example of what women can achieve when they harness their power. 

One of ancient Egypt’s few female rulers, she defied convention by presenting herself as both king and divine leader.

The Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut is dedicated to her. It’s an architectural wonder built into the Theban mountains' cliffs. 

20. Siwa‍

In recent years, this magical desert oasis has gone viral. People have become obsessed with its turquoise pools, which have such a high concentration of salt that you can float around as light as a feather. 

Beyond the Instagram-worthy pools, Siwa has idyllic desert camps where you can soak in natural hot springs, and relaxation is unavoidable. 

Seeking adventure? The desert safaris will have you racing through the sand dunes, holding on for dear life.

21. Philae Temple‍

This temple is different from the rest. Located on Agilkia Island, near Aswan, there’s something about being surrounded by water which adds to the magic. 

Like Abu Simbel, Philae Temple was also relocated to save it from flooding after the construction of the Aswan High Dam, but you’d never be able to tell. 

It’s a beautifully preserved ancient temple complex dedicated to the goddess Isis. 

What's the best way to spend 10 days in Egypt?

While it would be physically impossible to fit everything in this list into 10 days, we've tried our hardest to fit the best the country has to offer into our Wonders of Egypt: From Desert Sands to the Red Sea tour.

It includes famous historic sites, as well as the desert and sea, which play a significant role in shaping this country. And, of course, it's people. We'll stay with local families and enjoy a 10-course farm-to-table lunch in partnership with a local women's NGO. It's honestly one of the best Egypt itineraries out there!