Egypt has an ancient history that is familiar to all of us. Pyramids, pharaohs, constructions that have lasted for millennia, the sphinx and an interesting culture that has left great vestiges throughout the centuries. It is undoubtedly a tourist place, although not as quiet as years ago, due to its political situation. Anyway, it's well worth remembering which ones are the best. things to see and do in Egypt.
In Egypt we certainly have a list of essentials, like the pyramids or the Sphinx, but there is much more, like temples, the Valley of the Kings and a long etcetera. And that's not to mention the fact that we can also enjoy shopping, cities full of life and a beautiful coastline.
Pyramids of Giza
How could it be otherwise, we begin with one of the most essential visits in Egypt, since they are like who says their symbol. The Pyramids of Giza, of different sizes, are located a few kilometers from the city of Cairo, so if you stay here, surely one of the visits will be to these pyramids. They are that of Cheops, Khafre and Menkaure. It is possible to enter the pyramids by paying a ticket, and the visiting and waiting time is different depending on which one we enter. The experience is unique, and it is that we will be inside the pyramids that were built centuries ago, seeing what its interior is like. The bad news is that the passageways are narrow, so if you have a minimum of claustrophobia it is better not to enter. In the area we will also find other entertainments, because it is a very touristy place, with camels to ride or souvenir stalls to buy and take a souvenir.
The Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens
Another visit not to be missed in Egypt is that of the King's Valley, which is the most important, and the Valley of the Queens. Many of the tombs have already been looted, and there is little more than the remains, but we will be able to see this sacred valley in which the pharaohs of the New Kingdom were buried. With the access pass you can enter three tombs, the ones you want, except that of Tutankhamun, which, because it is the most famous, requires a special entrance. Although it must be said that it is not worth much, because everything that was in his grave is already in museums. In the Valley of the Queens we will find something similar, with the tomb of Nefertari. There are fewer open graves, and their discovery is more recent.
Abu Simbel Temple
Among the temples there are many that you may like, but Abu Simbel has something special. Carved out of the rock and with an aspect of keeping something mysterious inside, it is a wonderful place. In addition, this temple is a great work of engineering, since it was completely moved when the Aswan Dam was built. Is dedicated to Ramses II and Nefertari, his first wife. To get to this temple, you usually take a bus trip through the desert, or a short cruise on Lake Nasser. Both options are nice and interesting.
Temples of Luxor and Karnak
If we talk about these two temples at the same time, it is because they are connected, and it is because hundreds of years ago both were connected by the Avenue of the Sphinxes. We can get an idea when we get to the temples, since today you can see the beginning of this avenue in both temples, although of course, it traveled for kilometers and today there are only a few left. In both temples we will find places to get lost, with huge stone columns with engravings and some statues. They are quite well preserved, and it is best to visit at night, when they are illuminated. In these temples you can take really spectacular photos, so you have to take advantage of them, since the best snapshots come out of these visits.
Hatsepsut Temple
This temple is also known as the Deir-el-Bahari temple. It is a totally different temple from the others, with a much lighter and even modern look you could say. It was built in honor of Hatsepsut, the only woman who reigned in Egypt for a long time. It is an interesting place, really well preserved, with beautiful details, so it is worth exploring. In addition, it must be said that we will not find images or statues of Hatsepsut in any way, since at his death, his brother destroyed everything, since she had taken the kingdom from him. The images of a pharaoh belong to Tutmosis III, his brother, who replaced them in his temple. It is a quick visit but essential for being such a special temple.