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What to Do Beyond the Usual Sites in Egypt

Discover Egypt's hidden gems beyond the famed attractions! From desert camping adventures to historical expeditions and culinary delights, this expert guide reveals unique experiences.

What to Do Beyond the Usual Sites in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal

Summary

  • The article, penned by a team of seasoned tour experts, spotlights Egypt's hidden gems, going beyond the typical tourist spots.
  • Venture into the Western Desert for an exceptional overnight camping experience in the White Desert, exploring Bahariya Oasis and natural rock formations via 4x4 rides, topped with a magical night under star-studded skies.
  • Delve into the significance of El-Alamein, a vital Second World War site honoring the sacrifices made by soldiers, alongside a museum exhibiting wartime artifacts.
  • Indulge in Egypt's diverse cuisine at Sequoia, a restaurant overlooking the Nile, savoring traditional dishes and enjoying shisha while admiring the stunning view.
  • Alexandria offers a rich cultural experience, unveiling historical sites like the Catacombs of Kom El-Shoqafa, Citadel of Qaitbay, and Pompey’s Pillar, showcasing Greco-Roman and Egyptian architectural wonders.
  • Explore lesser-known pyramids beyond Giza, discovering ancient structures at Saqqara, Dahshur, and Abusir, providing insights into ancient Egyptian burial practices and architecture.

What to do beyond the usual sites in Egypt is a very attractive subject that sheds some light on all the hidden sites of Egypt. The purpose of this article is to offer every traveler all the information and details about all the usual sites to explore in Egypt. This article was written by a group of a very skilled and experienced team of tour operators, tour guides, and travel consultants who know all the finest usual and hidden places to explore in Egypt.

Being in a great exceptional country like Egypt can take you on a totally magical adventure through which you will be able to check some of the most exciting sites, visit the greatest historical treasures that date back thousands of years ago and all tourists know that there are so many must-visit usual places all around the country, but there are some unusual impressive hidden sites that worth being visited especially for the ones who are looking for absolute adventure and exploring impressive sites. In our article below, you will find the most interesting activities that can be enjoyed in Egypt, but they are not familiar ones.

1. Enjoy Camping Out in the Desert

Camping out in the desert - What to do beyond the Usual Sites in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal
Camping out in the desert - What to do beyond the Usual Sites in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal

Among the most amazing things that you can enjoy in Egypt is heading from Cairo on a totally exceptional adventure into the Western Desert. Spending overnight camping in the White Desert is without a doubt one of the most interesting things to enjoy as an outdoor activity in Egypt. During such an excursion, you will be able to visit the glorious Bahariya Oasis while being on board a 4 X 4 and that will allow you to explore the gorgeous attractions all around you in addition to the wonderful rock formations in the area.

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At night, you will get the most exclusive opportunity to set up a camp and enjoy camping with the local Bedouins under a dark, magical blanket full of impressive stars. Then, on the following day, you can enjoy an unforgettable hot spring and take some exceptional photos at the spot before heading back to Cairo. The heavenly city of Faiy is a highly recommended tour that we advise any adventurous traveler to take.

2. Explore A Terrific Exploration Trip to El-Alamein

El-Alamein War Museum in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal
El-Alamein War Museum in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal

In order to understand more and more regarding the ancient history of Egypt, you need to visit some of the oldest attractions & highlights of each city and while being in Alexandria city, you can enjoy a trip to the hypnotic El-Alamein that played a very important role during the Second World War. Lots of British and Commonwealth soldiers have given their lives in the battles that took place there, defeating the nazi force.

Behind every single rock in this magical city of El Alamein is a story waiting to be narrated about the horrors and victories of WWII, which left a heavy mark on this glorious milestone. While being there, you will be able to check lots of graves that commemorate the lives of the British, New Zealand, and the Australian soldiers who fought there. You will also find a war museum that displays war memorabilia, including weapons, uniforms, records, models, and lots of other amazing items.

3. Taste the Egyptian Cuisine at Sequoia

The Egyptian Cuisine at Sequoia - What to do beyond the Usual Sites in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal
The Egyptian Cuisine at Sequoia - What to do beyond the Usual Sites in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal

 If you want to enjoy a delicious meal with ancient roots, then Egypt has a lot to offer. You should, without a doubt, head to Sequoia restaurant, which overlooks the Nile River and serves the best recommended oriental & international food. The tastiest cuisines offered in Egypt include some marvelous vegan dishes which include Koshari, Ful Medames, Tameya, Mahshi, Molokhia, Moussaka, Molasses with tahini, and the traditional Aish Baladi.

There are a number of phenomenal meaty dishes in Egypt that could have Middle Eastern origins like kebab and kofta, Hawawshi, Hamam Mahshi, Feseekh, Shawarma, Fiteer Baladi, and more across the golden streets and corners are some of the most delicious deserts which include Basbousa, Baqlawa, Alexandria cheese fondue, Roz Bel Laban, Basbousa, and more appetizing foods. You can smoke your shisha pipe there and enjoy the fascinating view from one of the most famous waterways in the world.

4. Don’t Miss Alexandria Cultural Experience

Alexandria City - What to do beyond the Usual Sites in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal
Alexandria City - What to do beyond the Usual Sites in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal

The coastal city of Alexandria is such a breathtaking example of an integrated Egyptian city that has the most astonishing coastal beaches, amazing hotels, and the best cultural sites that have the ability to uncover the most impressive secrets, facts, and information about the great history of Egypt. Some of the tourist sites go back to the Roman era, such as the impressive Catacombs of Kom El-Shoqafa, which is renowned for its magnificent architectural works of Greco-Roman and Egyptian styles.

The Citadel of Qaitbay is a historical fortress created on the site of a grand lighthouse using its rocks, which was once one of the tallest buildings in the world. The phenomenal Pompey’s Pillar is one of the most amazing and enchanting monuments of Emperor Diocletian. Acors the shores and lands of the immortal city of Alexandria are some of the most dazzling architectural and artistic attractions, which include Montaza Palace, Stanley Bridge, The Corniche, El-Mursi Abul Abbas Mosque, Royal Jewelry Museum, and more epic marvels.

5. Discover Hidden Pyramids

The Pyramid of Pharaoh Sahure, Abusir - What to Do Beyond the Usual Sites in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal
The Pyramid of Pharaoh Sahure, Abusir - What to Do Beyond the Usual Sites in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal

While being in the golden lands of Egypt, a magical door will open, leading to one of the biggest archaeological milestones ever created in history, the pyramids. Aside from the famous three pyramids of Giza, there are more than 120 pyramids scattered across lower Egypt in magical spots Saqqara, Dahshur, and Abusir. Visiting these Pyramids will provide the chance to discover the grand step pyramid of Djoser that dates to the 27th century BC.

Within the epic lands of Dahshur are some of the most glorious constructions, which include the high, unique bent pyramid, the red pyramid, and the majestic Dahshur pyramids. The everlasting pyramid of Abusir can be seen as one of the most unique and phenomenal necropolises dating to the old kingdom of pharaohs and high-ranking officials of the 5th dynasty. These glorious pyramids acted as tombs and provided important, valuable insights into the architecture, burial practices, and religious beliefs of the ancient Egyptians across 4500 years.

6. Visit the St. Catherine's Monastery

St Catherines Monastery, Sinai - What to Do Beyond the Usual Sites in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal
St Catherines Monastery, Sinai - What to Do Beyond the Usual Sites in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal

St Catherine Monastery is one of the holiest and most incredible attractions in the world. It acts as one of the oldest Christian monasteries in Egypt found on the Mount of Sinai. It became a UNESCO World Heritage site built between 548 and 565 by Byzantine emperor Justinian I that held some of the finest religious artifacts like the burning bush of Moses and many relics, manuscripts, icons, and artifacts that include the oldest Bibles in the world Codex Sinaiticus and the Syriac Sinaiticus.

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The monastery has magnificent and beautiful surroundings that will make your visit truly entertaining and highly spiritual. Visiting St. Catherine's Monastery will be the key to witnessing how Abrahamic religions came into existence, which plays a vital role in shaping our world. 

7. Attend a Local Festival

Ramadan in Egypt - What to Do Beyond the Usual Sites in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal
Ramadan in Egypt - What to Do Beyond the Usual Sites in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal

While being in Egypt, everyone will get to enjoy attending the most fun and thrilling festivals and celebrations throughout the year. Everyone will get to cast their eyes on the country's rich culture and traditions. There are a number of religious and cultural festivals & holidays in Egypt, like Ramadan celebrations, Eid, Easter, and Coptic Christmas, where the unique traditions of Egypt will come to life in front of your eyes.

Everyone will get to enjoy traditional music, dance, and food within the most marvelous surroundings. Attending the festivals of Egypt will be the chance to experience the great cultural, artistic, and historical milestones and culture of Egypt that were cultivated over thousands and hundreds of years. 

8. Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Luxor

Luxor Hot Air Balloon - What to Do Beyond the Usual Sites in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal
Luxor Hot Air Balloon - What to Do Beyond the Usual Sites in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal

Riding a hot air balloon ride over Luxor will be a thrilling adventure that feels like walking on clouds to uncover the immortal archaeological wonders that include the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut temple, Valley of the Queens, and many more glorious ancient temples. Everyone will get the most celestial and enriching sunrise view, thus providing a very peaceful and surreal experience that will create some delightful memories.

The beautiful architecture and art of Luxor will paint a beautiful picture filled with living glorious tales of gods and kings who created a powerful kingdom that was able to stand the test of time. 

9. Scuba Diving in the Red Sea

Goatfishes in the Red Sea - What to Do Beyond the Usual Sites in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal
Goatfishes in the Red Sea - What to Do Beyond the Usual Sites in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal

Every second spent diving in the blessed Red Sea will open a portal uncovering the immortal natural allure of crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life. The waters of the Red Sea are filled with beautiful and renowned scuba diving spots that include Ras Mohammed National Park, Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Dahab, which provide a magical insight into the heavenly marine treasures that come in many stunning, colorful coral reefs, underwater caves, and vibrant fishes.

From beautiful cities like Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Dahab, everyone will enjoy a truly fun, unforgettable underwater experience filled with an incredible sense of tranquility and enjoyment from the moment you enter the divine waters of the Red Sea. 

10. Visit the Cave Church in Cairo

Saint. Samaan the Tanner Hall - What to Do Beyond the Usual Sites in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal
Saint. Samaan the Tanner Hall - What to Do Beyond the Usual Sites in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal

The unique and extraordinary cave church in Cairo, which is known as the St. Simon the Tanner Monastery, is a remarkable church carved into the cliffs of Mokattam Mountain in Cairo, which was one of the places where the holy family hid in Egypt. The cave church is a true natural wonder that hosts some of the most incredible Coptic treasures and works of art carved in the inner surroundings of the cave.

It is adorned with religious icons and decorations and remains a great place of worship, prayer, and religious gatherings. This holy rock-cut golden piece of architecture will provide a distinctive and spiritually significant experience that will uncover some of the greatest and most magnificent facts.

11. Sail on a Dahabiya

Dahabiya Near Aswan - What to Do Beyond the Usual Sites in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal
Dahabiya Near Aswan - What to Do Beyond the Usual Sites in Egypt - Egypt Tours Portal

One of the most amazing and elevating travel experiences to Enjoy across the magical Nile River is a luxury dahabiya tour, which will deliver an intimate adventure that showcases the profound beauty of the Nile River and the ancient history of all the glorious attractions found across its banks. This beautiful leisurely journey onboard the dahabiya can only carry a few travelers who will enjoy the ideal services of comfortable accommodations and delicious Egyptian cuisines while discovering some of the most epic historical temples, villages, and archaeological sites.

Every moment spent on the dahabiya will truly feel like being an ancient pharaoh who sailed across the Nile back in the day in the most magnificent and luxurious manner.

Beyond the Pyramids: Unconventional Egypt Escapes

Out of the ordinary Egypt tours are the finest way to discover all the off-the-beaten-track monuments in the land of Pharaohs while enjoying the finest services and comfort at the most affordable prices.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the out of ordinary destinations in Egypt?

Some of the best out-of-ordinary destinations in Egypt are the Coptic attractions such as the hanging church, Abu Serga Church, and countless more plus a number of Islamic attractions such as Ibn Tulan Mosque, Al Azhar Mosque, Amr Ibn Alas Mosque, and more. There are also the Nubian village and the Natural Oasis's of Egypt and a number of enchanting museums like the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization

What are the unusual things to do in Egypt?

The most amazing unusual things to do include a dinner cruise in the heart of Cairo across the Nile, a sound & light show at the pyramids complex, a unique dahabiya across the waters of Luxor and Aswan, hiking tours in Egypt, Enjoy the Luxor temple by the night through a sound and light show, super safari in the Egyptian Sahara, a hot-air balloon in Luxor's skies, incredible aquatic tours like diving & snorkeling in the red sea, and many more

What Are the Finest Destinations to Visit in Egypt?

The entire country of Egypt deserve to be explored with its every heavenly detail but there are places that must be seen before any other such as the breathtaking Hurghada's red sea, The wonders of Cairo the pyramids of Giza, the great sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, Khan El Khalili Bazaar, the wonders of Luxor like Valley of the Kings, Karnak & Hatshepsut temple and the wonders of Aswan such as Abu Simbel temples, Philea temple, Unfinished obelisk and The Wonders of Alexandria like Qaitbat Citadel, Pompey's Pillar and Alexandria Library. Read more about the best places to visit in Egypt.

What Are Egypt's Visa Requirements?

If you want to apply for a Visa On Arrival that lasts for 30 days then you should be one of the eligible countries, have a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining and pay 25$ USD in cash, as for the E-Visa for 30 day you should have a valid passport for at least 8 months, complete the online application, pay the e-visa fee then print the e-visa to later be presented to the airport border guard. You could also be one of the lucky ones who can obtain a free visa for 90 days. Read more about Egypt travel visa.

What Is the Top Traditional Egyptian Food?

Egypt has a variety of delicious cuisines but we recommend “Ful & Ta’meya (Fava Beans and Falafel)”, Mulukhiya, “Koshary”, a traditional Egyptian pasta dish, and Kebab & Kofta, the Egyptian traditional meat dish.

What is the Best Time to Visit Egypt?

The best time to travel to Egypt is during the winter from September to April as the climate becomes a little tropical accompanied by a magical atmosphere of warm weather with a winter breeze. You will be notified in the week of your trip if the Climate is unsafe and if any changes have been made.

What to Pack for Your Egypt Tour?

You should pack everything you could ever need in a small bag so you could move easily between your destinations.

Why Book With "Egypt Tours Portal"?

We have been creating the finest vacations for more than 20 years around the most majestic destinations in Egypt. Our staff consists of the best operators, guides and drivers who dedicate all of their time & effort to make you have the perfect vacation. All of our tours are customized by Travel, Financial & Time consultants to fit your every possible need during your vacation. It doesn't go without saying that your safety and comfort are our main priority and all of our resources will be directed to provide the finest atmosphere until you return home.

Is it Safe to Travel to Egypt?

You will feel safe in Egypt as the current atmosphere of the country is quite peaceful after the government took powerful measures like restructuring the entire tourist police to include all the important and tourist attractions in Egypt. Read more about is it safe to travel to Egypt.

What to Wear While in Egypt?

Wear whatever feels right and comfortable. It is advised to wear something light and comfortable footwear like a closed-toe shoe to sustain the terrain of Egypt. Put on sun block during your time in Egypt in the summer to protect yourself from the sun.

What are the Best Activities to Do in Egypt?

The best activity is by far boarding a Nile Cruise between Luxor and Aswan or Vise Versa. Witness the beauty of Egypt from a hot balloon or a plane and try all the delicious Egyptian cuisines and drinks plus shopping in old Cairo. Explore the allure and wonders of the red sea in the magical city resorts of Egypt like Hurghada and many more by diving and snorkeling in the marine life or Hurghada. Behold the mesmerizing western desert by a safari trip under the heavenly Egyptian skies.

What are Egypt Festival and Public Holidays?

There are a lot of public holidays in Egypt too many to count either religious or nation, the most important festivals are the holy month of Ramadan which ends with Eid Al Fitr, Christmas and new years eve. Read more about festivals & publich holidays in Egypt.

What are Special Advice for Foreign Women in Egypt?

Egypt is considered to be one of the most liberal Islamic countries but it has become a little bit conservative in the last couple of decades so it is advised to avoid showing your chest, shoulders or legs below the knees.

What are the Official Languages of Egypt?

Arabic is the official language and Most Egyptians, who live in the cities, speak or understand English or at least some English words or phrases. Fewer Egyptians can speak French, Italian, Spanish, and German. Professional tour guides, who work in the tourism sector, are equipped to handle visitors who cannot speak Arabic and they will speak enough English and other languages to fulfill the needs of all our clients.

What is the Transportation in Egypt?

The fastest way is a car, of course, a taxi. If you are in Cairo ride a white taxi to move faster or you could board the fastest way of transportation in Egypt metro if the roads are in rush hour.

What is the Weather is Like?

The temperature in Egypt ranges from 37c to 14 c. Summer in Egypt is somehow hot but sometimes it becomes cold at night and winter is cool and mild. The average of low temperatures vary from 9.5 °C in the wintertime to 23 °C in the summertime and the average high temperatures vary from 17 °C in the wintertime to 32 °C in the summertime. The temperature is moderate all along the coasts.

What are the Reasons That Make You Visit Egypt?

It is the home of everything a traveler might be looking for from amazing historical sites dating to more than 4000 years to enchanting city resorts & beaches. You will live the vacation you deserve as Egypt has everything you could possibly imagine.

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