15 must-try experiences in Egypt that celebrate history, adventure, and culture

One moment you're scaling the tallest sand dunes, and the next, you're exploring the remnants of the ancient world or snorkeling in the vibrant waters of the Red Sea. Whether you’re drawn to Egypt for its rich history, thrilling adventures, beautiful beaches, or iconic pyramids, you'll find an abundance of options to enjoy.

Explore our guide to the ultimate experiences in Egypt.

1. Enjoy breakfast with a view of the pyramids

8. Elevate your visit to the pyramids with some delicious falafel, refreshing mint tea, and stunning panoramic views of this ancient marvel. Visit the 9 Pyramids Lounge for Instagram-worthy photos and a delightful Egyptian breakfast featuring freshly baked bread, feta, or a Tahini salad.

2. Attend a captivating Tanoura show in Cairo

Old Cairo boasts the beautifully renovated Wekalet el Ghouri Arts Center, which hosts various cultural events. Here, you can witness an unforgettable Tanoura performance—a captivating whirling dervish act that blends Egyptian folklore with Sufi spiritual chants. This vibrant and enchanting one-hour spectacle is essential for anyone visiting Cairo.

Tip for planning: The performance takes place every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday at 7 PM, but arrive by 6 PM to secure your tickets before they sell out.

3. Savor authentic Egyptian street food at Kebdet El Prince in Cairo

Located in the lively Imbaba neighborhood of Cairo, Kebdet El Prince is a paradise for street food enthusiasts, offering a taste of traditional Egyptian cuisine amidst the vibrant atmosphere. This bustling eatery is perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in the flavors of Cairo.

Begin with the essentials: molokhia (jute mallow), kebda (liver), and sogo’ (sausage). For the more daring food enthusiasts, try mombar (stuffed sausage), makhasi (bull testicles), and shorbet kaware’ (cow’s foot soup).

Side note: If you still have room, indulge in dessert at El-Malky next door and finish with a refreshing mint tea from the café across the street.

4. Explore the winding alleys of Old Cairo

The historic streets of Old Cairo are a labyrinth of narrow paths lined with monuments, mansions, museums, and mosques. Begin your journey at El Moez Street and immerse yourself in the rich architectural, religious, and cultural heritage that intertwines with the lively sounds of everyday life in this vibrant neighborhood.

Stroll until you arrive at the Khan El-Khalili bazaar, where you can find everything from laundry detergent to exquisite clothing and charming souvenirs. Then make your way to Bab Zuweila, one of the last three remaining gates of the Old City of Cairo.

Tip for planning: Arrive in time to witness the sunset over the ancient structures from the lofty minarets of Bab Zuweila – one of the finest views you’ll discover in the city.

5. Experience camping in the Fayoum Desert

Escape the chaos of modern life with a desert camping trip in Fayoum. Enjoy the dunes on a 4WD safari with stops at the Wadi el Rayan waterfalls and the stunning blue lakes nestled in the desert, culminating in a delicious Bedouin dinner under the stars. Wear comfortable shoes and pack a light jacket for summer trips; in winter, prepare for the chilly nights. Fayoum is just two hours south of the capital, making it an easy weekend getaway from Cairo.

Tip for planning: To enjoy the best stargazing experience free from light pollution, schedule your trip to Wadi el Rayan or Wadi al Hittan (Valley of the Whales) during a moonless night.

6. Experience kitesurfing at the Blue Lagoon

Time seems to pause at the vibrant Blue Lagoon. Nestled between the Sinai Mountains and the clear waters of the Red Sea, this location features calm waters and powerful winds, making it a kitesurfer's dream destination.

Beginners can schedule a private kitesurfing lesson upon arrival. If kitesurfing isn't your thing, the Blue Lagoon offers the perfect opportunity to relax on the beach, soaking in the sun and tranquility of the sea.

7. Float in the stunning Salt Lakes of Siwa

Imagine this: floating in a pristine pool of crystal-clear water in the heart of the desert, surrounded by glimmering towers of sea salt. Siwa's salt lakes have been cherished by locals for ages. Enjoy effortless floating in this extraordinary pool, known for its high salt concentration, which is not only picturesque but is also believed to help clear sinuses and combat infections.

Siwa Oasis is sprinkled with countless turquoise salt pools – a striking contrast to the lush palm trees and golden desert, all set against breathtaking sunsets that have earned it the nickname Sunset Oasis.

Insider tip: Bring along some bottled water to rinse off the salt from your skin and prevent irritation. Even better, take a refreshing dip in Cleopatra’s Spring afterward.

8. Explore the underwater wonders of the Red Sea at Sataya Reef

Marsa Alam serves as an excellent base for divers eager to uncover the treasures of the Red Sea. The horseshoe-shaped Sataya Reef is hailed as one of the most stunning dive destinations in the world, featuring vibrant marine life and colorful corals. This natural marvel is also perfect for snorkelers.

9. Discover the temples in Luxor

Luxor, known as the greatest open-air museum on Earth, showcases the splendor of ancient Egyptian civilization with its impressive array of temples and monuments.

Start your temple exploration at the Temple of Karnak, a perfect embodiment of pharaonic ambition. Just a few kilometers southwest lies the breathtaking Luxor Temple. If possible, visit at night to see the temple illuminated. Approximately 40 minutes northwest of Luxor Temple, you’ll find The Valley of the Kings, a renowned tourist site that houses the tombs of Ramses III, Seti I, and Ay.

Located in the southern part of the Theban hillside, about 7km (4mi) from the Valley of the Kings, is The Valley of the Queens. This area contains 75 tombs, including the final resting places of Nefertari and one of Ramses II's five wives.

Bonus stops: Other significant sites along your journey include Queen Hatshepsut’s Temple, the Luxor Museum, and Ramses III’s Medinat Habu on the West Bank.

10. Savor authentic Egyptian cuisine with a local food tour in Cairo

Food transcends borders and is a universal love language, and Cairo is teeming with culinary treasures. But where do you begin? What should you taste? Where should you visit? Dive into local culture with a food tour that allows you to explore Egypt’s rich history and vibrant daily life, one authentic dish at a time.

Perfect for solo female travelers, Bellies En-Route is a women-led food tour company that bypasses tourist hotspots and instead introduces guests to beloved local eateries and neighborhood joints known for their amazing street food. At some restaurants, you even have the chance to assist in the kitchen, providing a wonderful way to engage with the community while preparing meals.

11. Soar above Luxor in a hot-air balloon

Each day at dawn, a multitude of balloons grace the skies above Luxor, offering a view that is simply breathtaking. Experience the sunrise illuminating the Theban hills, lush local farms, and ancient structures. Catch a glimpse of the shimmering Nile River in the distance and wave at locals enjoying the scene from their balconies. Trust us, that 3am wake-up and pre-ride jitters are absolutely worth it.

12. Enjoy a sunset felucca ride on the Nile

To truly appreciate the world’s longest river, float serenely in a felucca (traditional wooden sailboat) during sunrise or sunset, whether you're in Cairo, Aswan, or any spot in between.

In Cairo, you’ll find docks along the corniche in Maadi, Zamalek, and Garden City, providing stunning views of the city's skyline. If you’re in Aswan, feluccas serve as a delightful means of transport between the city’s 20 islands. Gather some friends, pack snacks and drinks, and soak in the tranquil beauty of the Nile.

13. Trek the Sinai Trail or Red Sea Mountain Trail

Discover Egypt's most famous mountain ranges and untouched wilderness by trekking with local Bedouin guides along the country's twin trails: the Sinai Trail and the Red Sea Mountain Trail.

The Sinai Trail is Egypt's inaugural long-distance hiking path, stretching 550km (342 miles) through the lands of eight Bedouin tribes in South Sinai. The 170km (106 mile) Red Sea Mountain Trail, located just outside the resort town of Hurghada, highlights the region's unparalleled beauty—ranging from expansive desert vistas to deep gorges, ancient Roman ruins, and prehistoric rock art, along with chapels of Egypt’s Desert Fathers.

Local tip: Both trails promote sustainable tourism, directly benefiting local Bedouin communities by generating jobs and preserving their traditional knowledge, skills, and heritage. Don't worry; the trails are segmented, allowing you to opt for hikes ranging from two to five days as part of your adventure.

14. Explore diving and snorkeling around Dahab

Dahab, the quintessential beach town of South Sinai, is a paradise for divers and snorkelers eager to encounter stunning underwater life. If you're not already certified, you can begin your PADI certification at one of the many dive centers in Dahab.

Just a few kilometers north of Dahab lies Egypt’s Blue Hole, a deep underwater sinkhole plunging over 100m (328ft) downwards, attracting seasoned divers from across the globe. While it offers a thrilling experience, it's also perilous, having claimed many lives, so it's best suited for advanced divers only.

15. Unwind with the breathtaking view from Castle Zaman

Come for the stunning scenery and stay for the ambiance. This medieval-style castle, which doubles as a slow-food restaurant, is set amidst Sinai’s majestic mountains, positioned between Nuweiba and Taba by the Gulf of Aqaba. It offers a remarkable perspective over the Red Sea, showcasing the shores and mountains of Egypt, Jordan, Israel, and Saudi Arabia.

Spend an entire day at Castle Zaman relaxing by the pool, sipping drinks at the bar, and savoring a leisurely lunch or dinner featuring dishes like a meat tagine or the fresh catch of the day. While Castle Zaman does not provide overnight accommodations, guests can enjoy amenities such as the sauna and massage services.

Planning tip: If you're looking to stay overnight, consider visiting Dayra Camp, a vibrant collection of decorated straw huts and wooden bungalows situated in the coastal town of Nuweiba, just 23km (14mi) away.