Beyond the stone and sand of Giza, Egypt is a diverse destination filled with adventure, relaxation, sun and fun!
Egypt is best known for its mythical and intriguing past. Home to the only wonder of the ancient world still in existence, travellers expect to trawl its ancient pyramids and lose themselves in a country filled with Pharaohs, hieroglyphs, treasures and tombs.
But remarkable relics from a world long buried are not the only treasures the destination has on offer. Since the end of the nineteenth century, a once-ancient Egypt has been catapulted into the present day, making it a country rich in culture, flavour and activity.
See blue at the Red Sea
Famous for its sandy plains, travellers to Egypt might consider snorkels and swimwear an unlikely addition to the suitcase. But the Egyptian Red Sea is one of the most sought after scuba diving sites in the world.
Coined Egypt's "Garden of Allah", the Red Sea stretches for more than 800 km and is home to an astonishing 1,248 species of underwater life. The most experienced or the untrained diver can explore the gigantic coral outcrops of Taba, the vertical walls of Ras Mohammed, the wrecks of Sha'ab Abu Nuhas or the lonely offshore islands of The Brothers and Zabargad.
Set your sites on safari
It comes as no surprise that the vast deserts of Egypt are traditionally explored via overnight camel treks. For travellers not ready for the bumpy ride and heat, Egypt offers a variety of safari alternatives that marry the excitement of rough terrain riding and the comfort of air conditioning. Full day jeep and quad bike safaris provide enthusiastic tourists with the adventure opportunity to dune bash and sand surf.
Take a break from reality
Egypt is arguably a real life amusement park, packed with mummies and mystical mythology, pyramids and temples to explore and camels and boats to ride. Yet every kid (and fun-loving adult!) who needs a break from real life relics will revel in Egypt's real life amusement parks. Scattered across the country, the American-style Dream Park, Family Land, Cairo's Al-Fustat Garden and Sindbad all offer make believe monuments when the sand and grit becomes a bit too much.
Like an Egyptian Tiger
Egypt is fast becoming renowned for its high calibre golf courses. In contrast to Egypt's sandy stereotype, the vivid green courses provide travellers with a sporting opportunity to see the country. Tiger Woods-inspired tourists can tee off from Cairo or Alexandria or enjoy the self-contained leisure complexes in Cairo's suburbs. They may send a drive toward the Luxor Mountains or across the Red Sea Riviera courses. The Sinai Peninsula or the northern and western Red Sea coasts are also breath taking locations for golf enthusiasts all year round.
Make like a mummy, and unwind
The only way to cap off a fast-paced adventure safari is to indulge in one of Egypt's celebrated healing therapies or spas. Bathe in sand or salt-rich seas, soak in hot springs or mummify yourself in curative clay. Visit Aswan for traditional Nubian therapies and environmental therapies including sand bathing and massages, experience the bubbling hot springs and traditional medicinal herbs of New Valley or immerse yourself in the rich mineral waters of the Red Sea.
Refuel and feast
Partake in any (or indeed all) of the above activities and you are bound to awaken your senses and rouse your appetite. With a cultural heritage coloured by a rich variety of Mediterranean cultures, Egyptian cooking is a fabulous combination of exotic dishes. After your meal, explore Egyptian bars and nightlife while sampling local lagers and wines. Whether you're looking for traditional dishes and drinks or contemporary variations of old favourites, Egyptian restaurants and bars offer delicious delicacies fit for the Pharoahs!
Traditional or trendy - shop 'til you drop!
From traditional souvenirs, spices, sequins and shishas right through to designer fashions, Egypt offers a wide array of shopping options. Pick up treasures unique to the region such as papyrus paintings, perfumes, pipes, jewellery and even hand woven carpets at the traditional Egyptian bazaar, or visit one of the countries modern shopping malls to indulge in some of your favourite brands.
Get in touch with nature
Egypt's diverse natural landscape provides tourists with the opportunity to explore wide-stretched deserts fertile banks of the Nile. Experience Egypt's breathtaking scenery by camping beneath its starlit skies and witnessing the natural beauty of its lush oases'. The keen explorer can brave the spectacular sandscapes of the Great Grand seas or camp in the shadows of Egypt's infamous pyramids.
Felucca down the Nile
Feluccas are sail boats that have been used on the Nile for thousands of years. Taking a Felucca down the Nile is something you must do. You can take short sunset sails in Cairo and Alexandria or you can take a longer cruises that can last days!
Oasis in the desert
The old town of Siwa dates back to the 13th century and its mud and brick architecture looks gnarled and quite unique. Egypt's oldest oasis town is situated in the Western Desert close to the Libyan border. As well as its unique culture, the Siwa oasis is known for its geographical beauty, hot springs and the fact that Alexander the Great traveled here to visit the Oracle of Amun.
A place where fine regional cuisine is served up with a sea breeze and where a scenic country walk can be made from one cellar door to the next. You'll be spoiled for choice at the Mornington Peninsula.
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