Stuff to Do in Egypt: The Ultimate Guide for UK Tourists

Marvel at the Pyramids and Ancient Sites

The Great Pyramid of Giza stands as humanity's most enduring testament to ancient ingenuity, rising majestically from the desert sands just outside Cairo. This UNESCO World Heritage site, alongside the enigmatic Sphinx, represents the pinnacle of stuff to do in Egypt for history enthusiasts. The complex encompasses three main pyramids, each telling its own story of pharaonic ambition and architectural brilliance.

Beyond Giza, the Valley of the Kings in Luxor unveils the burial chambers of Egypt's most powerful rulers. Walking through these elaborately decorated tombs, visitors witness hieroglyphic narratives that have survived over 3,000 years. The tomb of Tutankhamun, though modest in size, captivates with its golden treasures and mysterious curse legends.

The Temple of Karnak sprawls across 200 acres, showcasing the largest religious complex ever constructed. Its hypostyle hall, supported by 134 massive columns, creates an almost mystical atmosphere as sunlight filters through the ancient stones. The nearby Luxor Temple, connected to Karnak by the Avenue of Sphinxes, demonstrates the sophisticated urban planning of ancient Thebes.

Egyptian Pyramids

Experience the Magic of Nile River Cruises

A Nile cruise transforms travel between Egypt's ancient sites into a luxurious journey through time. These floating hotels glide past verdant riverbanks where farmers still use traditional methods their ancestors employed thousands of years ago. The contrast between timeless rural life and ancient monuments creates a uniquely Egyptian experience.

Most cruises navigate between Luxor and Aswan, stopping at significant temples including Edfu, dedicated to the falcon god Horus, and Kom Ombo, uniquely devoted to two deities. The journey typically spans 3-7 days, allowing passengers to witness spectacular sunrises over the Nile while enjoying world-class amenities aboard modern vessels.

Aswan itself enchants visitors with its Nubian culture and the engineering marvel of the High Dam. The nearby Philae Temple, relocated stone by stone to save it from flooding, demonstrates international cooperation in preserving cultural heritage. A traditional felucca sail around Elephantine Island provides intimate contact with the Nile's gentle rhythms.

The Abu Simbel temples, accessible via day trip from Aswan, showcase Ramesses II's architectural propaganda at its most impressive. These massive rock-cut temples, also relocated to higher ground, feature colossal statues that guard the entrance to chambers decorated with vivid battle scenes and religious imagery.

Nile River Cruise

Discover Red Sea Paradise

Egypt's Red Sea coastline presents a dramatically different facet of stuff to do in Egypt, where pristine coral reefs meet luxury resort amenities. Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh serve as gateways to underwater worlds teeming with colorful marine life that rivals any tropical destination worldwide.

The Ras Mohammed National Park protects some of the Red Sea's most spectacular coral formations. Snorkeling or diving here reveals an underwater kaleidoscope of angelfish, parrotfish, and reef sharks gliding through crystal-clear waters. The park's diverse ecosystems extend beyond the marine environment to include desert landscapes and mangrove forests.

Dahab, once a humble Bedouin fishing village, now attracts adventure seekers with its laid-back atmosphere and world-class diving sites. The Blue Hole, a submarine sinkhole, challenges experienced divers while the nearby Canyon offers stunning underwater topography accessible to intermediate divers.

For those preferring to stay dry, glass-bottom boat excursions provide excellent reef viewing opportunities. Many resorts offer desert safaris that combine Red Sea relaxation with Bedouin cultural experiences, including traditional meals under star-filled skies and camel trekking across ancient trade routes.

Red Sea Paradise

Immerse Yourself in Cultural Experiences

Cairo's Islamic Quarter pulses with authentic Egyptian life, where medieval architecture frames bustling markets and traditional crafts continue centuries-old traditions. The Khan el-Khalili bazaar overwhelms the senses with aromatic spices, handwoven textiles, and intricate metalwork created by master artisans whose techniques pass from generation to generation.

The Citadel of Saladin dominates Cairo's skyline, housing the magnificent Mohammed Ali Mosque with its Ottoman-influenced architecture. From the citadel's ramparts, panoramic views encompass the sprawling metropolis where ancient minarets punctuate modern urban development.

Coptic Cairo preserves Egypt's Christian heritage through churches dating to the early centuries of Christianity. The Hanging Church, suspended above a Roman fortress gatehouse, contains beautiful wooden screens and religious artifacts that illuminate Egypt's diverse religious history.

Traditional Egyptian cuisine represents another essential cultural experience. Sampling ful medames (fava beans), koshari (mixed rice and lentils), and fresh seafood in local restaurants provides authentic flavors that reflect Egypt's position at the crossroads of Africa, Asia, and the Mediterranean.

Cultural Experiences

Embark on Desert Adventures

The Western Desert stretches endlessly beyond the Nile Valley, concealing oases that have sustained travelers for millennia. Siwa Oasis, near the Libyan border, maintains traditional Berber culture while offering unique attractions like the Oracle Temple where Alexander the Great supposedly received divine confirmation of his destiny.

White Desert National Park creates an otherworldly landscape of chalk formations sculpted by wind and time into fantastic shapes resembling giant mushrooms, animals, and abstract art. Camping beneath these formations under brilliant desert stars provides an unforgettable connection with Egypt's natural beauty.

The Black Desert, formed by volcanic activity, contrasts dramatically with surrounding golden sands. English Mountain offers panoramic views across this stark landscape, while hot springs provide welcome relief from desert temperatures.

Bahariya Oasis serves as the gateway to desert expeditions while maintaining its agricultural traditions. Date palm groves and natural hot springs create a verdant refuge where Bedouin guides share desert survival knowledge passed down through generations.

Egyptian desert

Planning Your Egyptian Adventure

Visa requirements for UK citizens involve obtaining an electronic visa online or purchasing one upon arrival at major airports. The process typically takes minutes, though advance planning ensures smoother entry procedures.

Currency exchange is readily available throughout Egypt, with the Egyptian pound fluctuating against the British pound. Credit cards work in hotels and tourist areas, though cash remains essential for local markets and smaller establishments.

Health considerations include routine vaccinations and potential hepatitis A/B protection. Bottled water prevents stomach issues, while sun protection becomes crucial given Egypt's intense sunshine and dry climate.

For the ultimate Egyptian experience that seamlessly combines all these incredible attractions, MemphisTours offers expertly crafted itineraries that maximize your time while ensuring authentic cultural encounters. Their local expertise transforms the overwhelming array of stuff to do in Egypt into perfectly orchestrated journeys that create lifelong memories.