Traveling through Egypt for two weeks allowed me to explore some of the country's most iconic sites while also experiencing its cultural and geographical diversity. From the intensity of Cairo, with its pyramids, chaotic bazaars, and museums steeped in history, to the contrasting south of Aswan and Luxor, where pharaonic temples rise imposingly on the banks of the Nile, each stage of the trip was distinct and complementary.
After that immersion in ancient history, I decided to close the itinerary on the Red Sea coast in Dahab, a much more relaxing destination perfect for rest. There I discovered a different Egypt: quiet beaches, a backpacker atmosphere, and the opportunity to snorkel and dive on spectacular reefs. This two-week trip proved to be an ideal balance of adventure, history, and relaxation.
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Main attractions to visit in Egypt
Each region offers distinct experiences: monumental temples, symbolic tombs, oasis in the middle of nowhere, and beaches perfect for relaxing. While I didn't have time to explore everything, these are the main highlights of a visit to Egypt:
Cairo
Egypt's capital is chaotic, vibrant, and fascinating. Besides wandering around the Khan el-Khalili bazaar and exploring the Egyptian Museum, it's a good base for organizing excursions and immersing yourself in the daily life of the locals.
Pyramids of Giza
The pyramid complex of Cheops, Chephren, and Menkaure is undoubtedly the country's most famous landmark. A visit to the Great Sphinx is often a bonus.
Alexandria
Located on the Mediterranean coast, Alexandria has a completely different feel from Cairo. Its must-sees include the Alexandrian Library, the Fort of Qaitbay, and its seafront cafes. It's a great getaway to see another side of the country.
Siwa Oasis
One of Egypt's most magical places. Located in the middle of the desert, near the Libyan border, Siwa offers unique landscapes, salt lakes, dunes, and a strong cultural identity. Getting there takes time.
Luxor
Ancient Thebes is a true open-air museum. Here you'll find the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Karnak, and the Temple of Luxor, some of the most impressive treasures of Pharaonic Egypt.
Aswan
Much quieter than Luxor, Aswan stands out for its landscapes on the banks of the Nile and as a starting point for visiting Abu Simbel, one of the most impressive temples in the country. You can also tour the Nubian villages, which maintain a very unique culture.
Dahab
On the Sinai Peninsula, Dahab combines tranquil beaches with a backpacker vibe, ideal for relaxing after exploring the country. It's famous for snorkeling and diving in the Red Sea, especially at sites like the Blue Hole.
Mount Sinai
Very close to Dahab is Mount Sinai, a climb usually made at night to reach the summit at dawn. In addition to its spiritual significance, it offers spectacular views of Egypt.
What I liked most about my 2 weeks in Egypt
From my time in Egypt I took away several moments that were engraved in my memory.
Cairo, chaos and Arab culture
Being in Cairo was a unique experience: a chaotic, intense city with a very strong Arab culture that envelops you with its history and daily life.
Pyramids of Giza
The Pyramids of Giza, despite the fact that getting to them wasn't easy and the experience around them can be a bit chaotic, remain one of the most impressive wonders I've ever seen. Seeing them face to face is something no traveler forgets.
Luxor with its temples and the Valley of the Kings
Luxor was another highlight of the trip. Walking among temples like Karnak or Luxor and exploring the Valley of the Kings, with the tombs of the pharaohs, is like traveling back in time.
Temple of Abu Simbel
And if I had to choose one place that left me speechless, it was Abu Simbel: the most impressive temple I saw in Egypt, both for its size and its history.
Map with the itinerary of Egypt
Egypt itinerary details
Our trip began by arriving in Cairo from Malta, where we spent three intense days. We took the opportunity to get to know the city a little, walk through its chaotic streets and, of course, visit the impressive pyramids of Giza, which were one of the highlights of the tour.
From there we took a 13-hour overnight train to Aswan, the southernmost city in the country.
We spent two days visiting its main attractions, such as the majestic Abu Simbel and the Philae Temple, as well as enjoying the tranquility of the Nile.
We then continued by train to Luxor, where we spent five full days. There we find some of the most impressive sites in all of Egypt: the Luxor Temple, the gigantic Karnak Complex and the Valley of the Kings, among others. It was one of the places I enjoyed most on the itinerary.
Finally, we closed the trip by taking a flight from Luxor to Sharm el-Sheikh, in the Sinai Peninsula, to move immediately to Dahab. There we spent three relaxing days facing the Red Sea, enjoying the calm of the place, before continuing our route to Jordan.
How to get to Jordan from Egypt. (coming soon)