Egypt

Egypt is a destination that exists in two dimensions: the monumental scale of its ancient past and the vibrant, pulsing energy of its modern resurrection. It is a land where 5,000 years of history aren’t just preserved in museums, but stand tall against the desert horizon. From the Great Pyramids to the sun-drenched shores of the Red Sea, Egypt is a sensory masterpiece of golden sands, lapis-lazuli waters, and spice-scented air.

Whether you are exploring a newly opened tomb in the Valley of the Kings or dining on a rooftop overlooking the minarets of Old Cairo, Egypt offers a sense of wonder that time cannot touch.

Why we love Egypt

We love Egypt for its ability to make the ancient feel immediate. It is a place of grand gestures—massive temples, colossal statues, and the world’s longest river. But we also love the intimate moments: the steam rising from a glass of hibiscus tea, the rhythmic sound of a felucca sail snapping in the wind, and the quiet expertise of an Egyptologist revealing a hidden hieroglyph. It is a country that demands to be seen in style, offering a level of heritage luxury that is truly royal.

The Most Beautiful Places in Egypt

From the Mediterranean “Bride of the Sea” to the sands of Nubia:

1. Cairo & The Giza Plateau

The heartbeat of the Arab world. Cairo is a city of layers, from the medieval majesty of Islamic Cairo to the sleek, modern galleries of Zamalek. Of course, no visit is complete without the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx. For a modern perspective, the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) offers a world-class home for the treasures of Tutankhamun.

2. Luxor & The Valley of the Kings

Commonly called the world’s greatest open-air museum. Luxor is home to the staggering Karnak Temple and the high-drama tombs of the New Kingdom Pharaohs. To avoid the crowds, we recommend private, after-hours access to the Tomb of Nefertari—the most beautiful and well-preserved mural work in the ancient world.

3. Aswan & The Nubian Nile

Where the Nile is at its most beautiful. In Aswan, the river winds around granite boulders and lush botanical islands. This is the land of the Nubian people, famous for their vibrant blue-washed villages. Stay at the historic Old Cataract Hotel, where Agatha Christie once sat, and watch the sun set over the dunes of the Sahara.

4. The Siwa Oasis

For those seeking the ultimate escape, Siwa is a lush emerald island in a sea of sand. Located deep in the Western Desert near the Libyan border, it is home to ancient mud-brick fortresses, salt lakes you can float in, and the Temple of the Oracle where Alexander the Great once sought counsel. It is the height of “eco-chic” isolation.

5. The Red Sea Riviera (El Gouna)

Egypt’s answer to the Mediterranean’s most exclusive enclaves. El Gouna is a sophisticated lagoon town offering world-class diving, private yacht charters, and boutique beach clubs. It is the perfect place to decompress after a journey through the desert, where the mountains meet the deep blue of the Red Sea.

Highlights of a Tour Through Egypt

  • Sailing by Dahabiya: Forget the large cruise ships. A private dahabiya—a traditional twin-masted sailing boat—allows you to glide down the Nile in total privacy, stopping at smaller temples and remote islands that the big boats can’t reach.
  • Abu Simbel by Air: Take a short flight south to witness the colossal temples of Ramses II, rescued from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. The sight of the sun striking the inner sanctum is one of the world’s most powerful architectural feats.
  • Cairo’s Street Food Tour: Go beyond the hotel dining room to taste the authentic flavors of the city—from the perfect koshary to the sweet, syrupy crunch of basbousa in the markets of Khan el-Khalili.

Essential Travel Tips

  • When to go: The ideal time is from October to April, when the weather is pleasantly warm and perfect for temple exploration. The summer months (June to August) can be intensely hot, especially in Upper Egypt (Luxor and Aswan).
  • The New Egypt: With massive infrastructure investments and the opening of new museums, Egypt is more accessible and polished than ever. Use private drivers and reputable guides to navigate the bustling cities with ease.
  • Language: Arabic is the official language. English is widely spoken in the travel industry, but a few words like “Shukran” (Thank you) will be met with the legendary Egyptian hospitality.
  • Currency: The Egyptian Pound (EGP) is the local currency. While high-end establishments accept credit cards, cash is essential for the markets and tipping (baksheesh), which is an integral part of Egyptian culture.