Six Unusual Places to Visit in Egypt

In every major city, you are likely to find traditions and customs that remain from the time of the pharaohs and in some, a mix of customs that were brought in throughout the centuries by the invaders. This mix is probably the reason why when compared to other Middle Eastern countries, Egypt seems more advanced, and more open to foreigners and visitors.

Egypt is a destination popular with people looking for last minute holiday deals to tropical climates. Added to this, the warm nature of the locals makes a holiday in Egypt an unforgettable experience, even for the most jaded tourist.

For those looking to explore, the destinations below will get you off the beaten path and offer new insights into this country. From the peasants of the Nile, to the Bedouin tribes of the desert, the Nubians of the south and the Coptic Christians, the duality between fertility and desolation you will experience in this country is second to none.

Dashur

These are the oldest pyramids in Egypt, but aren’t on the usual tourist trail, simply due to their remote location. They are 40km to the south of Cairo and were built long before the Great pyramid of Giza. The red pyramid, the second largest after Giza is in Dashur, and is a joy to visit as there are no lines, or hawkers to hassle you.

Marsa Alam

This town has a picture perfect beach and is well loved by underwater photographers. It is home to a large coral reef and the warmest waters in the world; the perfect getaway.

Gilf Kebir

Also known as the cave of swimmers, this is said to be the location of the lost oasis of Zerzura. It is close to the border of Libya and Sudan and was discovered in 1933 by a Hungarian explorer. The cave walls are lined with paintings depicting humans and giraffes and are more than 8,000 years old.

Cleopatra’s spring and the Siwa Oasis

Also in the western desert close to the Libyan border, you will find the Fatnas spring, locally known as Bir Wahed.  In 331 BC, Alexander the great journeyed here to consult the oracle of Amun. If you need a bit of an adrenalin rush, try sand boarding on the great dunes.

Camping in the White Desert

You will pass through Bedouin villages to get to the white desert. This area is visually stunning and almost looks like another planet. The scenery is beyond explanation and you will just have to experience it for yourself to understand how amazing this location is. Don’t forget your camera.

Alexandria’s sunken treasure

Take a literal dive into history and view over 7000 monuments belonging to pharaohs and Romans. The lost city of heracleon and Cleopatra’s palace, built by Alexander are just some of the underwater treasures you will visit. Scattered amongst these ancient temples are aircraft that sank during World War II.

There’s more to Egypt than just pyramids. Plan well in advance for your trip as this is the best way to save money and effort, as well as to ensure that you get to see parts of Egypt that are rarely explored by the usual tourist.