Planning an Egypt holiday can be overwhelming. Where to start, the Great Pyramids or the Red Sea’s beaches? This article streamlines your decision-making, featuring Egypt’s stunning landscapes, historical wonders, and luxury resorts, while offering essential tips to ensure a trip that’s as epic as the land of the Pharaohs themselves.
Key Takeaways
- Egypt mixes ancient marvels with sandy beaches, offering pyramids and coral reefs by day, and starlit dance-offs by night.
- Prepare for adventures such as hot air ballooning over Luxor, sandboarding in the desert, and water-sporting on the Red Sea to quench your adrenaline thirst.
- When packing for Egypt, remember the Swiss Army scarf for style and modesty, stuff your wallet for tips aplenty, and check your documents lest you get stuck in a sandy bureaucracy.
Unforgettable Egypt Holidays
From the mighty Great Pyramids of giza, that have stood as timeless witnesses to history to the vibrant coral reefs that dance with life beneath the Red Sea, Egypt is a symphony of contrasts. It’s a land where ancient wonders meet modern luxuries, and the sun-kissed beaches are as inviting as the warm smiles of the locals.
If the secrets of ancient Egyptians pique your curiosity, much like the fascination ancient Greeks had with their culture, or you simply crave the warmth of the Egyptian sun, an Egyptian holiday offers a lifetime adventure.
Sharm El Sheikh
Nestled on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, Sharm El Sheikh is a slice of paradise, where the golden beach meets the alluring Red Sea in tourist hubs like Naama Bay. This bustling Red Sea resort, located along the beautiful Red Sea coast, is a haven for those seeking the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, including a championship golf course for avid golfers.
Here are some highlights of Sharm El Sheikh:
- Dive into the world of colorful coral reefs at Sharks Bay
- Unwind on the sandy beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see
- Experience the vibrant nightlife and dance the night away under a blanket of stars
Sharm El Sheikh offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an action-packed vacation.
Sharm El Sheikh offers more than just soaking up the Egyptian sun, it serves as a hub for water enthusiasts. From a serene snorkelling day trip to a heart-pounding parasailing adventure, there’s something for every adrenaline junkie. Remember, while swimsuits are the uniform of the day at luxury hotels and private beaches, a modest cover-up is your best friend when you wander onto public sands.
Hurghada: Red Sea Paradise
Hurghada, the gem of the Red Sea Riviera, is where the desert meets the sea. Its stunning beaches and world-class scuba diving spots are a magnet for sea-lovers, while the hurghada marina whispers the tales of the town’s humble beginnings as a simple fishing village. Dive into the deep to scuba dive beside vibrant coral reefs or stroll through El Dahar, Hurghada’s old town district, and haggle for treasures in bustling bazaars.
The Fort Arabesque Resort, with its golden sands and private beaches, promises a memorable snorkelling trip, making it a paradise for both families and water sport enthusiasts. Amidst the luxury hotels and the kaleidoscope of marine life, Hurghada is a place where memories are made, and stories begin.
Marsa Alam: Serenity by the Sea
If your idea of a perfect golden beach break involves more serenity and less hustle, Marsa Alam is your sanctuary. Here, the sun-kissed land offers a quiet retreat on white sandy beaches that are a stone’s throw from the clear, turquoise waters of the Red Sea. In Marsa Alam, you have the opportunity to disconnect and let the rhythm of the waves and the soft whispers of the sea breeze envelop you.
For the underwater explorers, the local reefs are a world-class ticket to diving and snorkeling, showcasing colourful coral reefs and a mesmerizing marine life ballet. If you’re itching for a bit of adventure on dry land, Wadi El Gemal National Park beckons with its rich Roman history, diverse birdlife, and a chance to dive deeper into the desert’s heart.
Luxor: A Journey Through Ancient Egypt
Luxor stands as the world’s greatest open-air museum, with ancient sights where the stones speak of pharaohs and gods. Some of the must-visit attractions in Luxor include:
- The Karnak Temple complex, with its forest of giant pillars
- The Valley of the Kings, where tombs carved into the rock hold secrets of the past
- The colossal Memnon statues, silent guardians of history
Venture to Luxor and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of ancient Egypt.
Luxor offers more than just temples and tombs, it also presents a tapestry of diverse cultures interwoven through time. The Luxor Temple dazzles with its mix of pharaonic grandeur and the remnants of a mosque, while the Dendera complex’s Temple of Hathor showcases a blend of Egyptian and Roman architecture, with a hint of early Christianity.
And for those who wish to see it all from the sky, a hot air balloon ride at dawn offers a view that will etch itself in your memory forever.
Exhilarating Activities and Excursions
Once you’ve marveled at Egypt’s historical wonders, it’s time to inject your holiday with some adrenaline. Egypt’s landscape is a playground for thrill-seekers and adventurers alike. Whether you’re soaring above ancient sites in a hot air balloon, conquering a sand dune on a desert safari, carving through the waves on a kite surfing adventure or scuba diving on the Red Sea coast, Egypt’s array of activities will leave you breathless and begging for more.
Hot Air Balloon Rides: Imagine you visit Egypt and are greeted the dawn suspended in a hot air balloon, the Nile River unfolding below like a lifeline through the desert. Luxor is the launch pad for this ethereal adventure, offering a bird’s eye view of:
- the city’s vast archaeological treasures
- the Valley of the Kings
- the Temple of Karnak
- the Temple of Luxor
As the sun rises to reveal their full glory, it’s clear that this breathtaking view checks all the boxes.
As you drift silently over the ancient city, the Valley of the Kings reveals itself in the soft morning light, and the Colossi of Memnon stand tall, saluting the new day. It’s not just a ride; it’s a journey through time, lifted by the gentle winds of Egypt and guided by safety-conscious professionals who ensure an unforgettable experience.
Desert Safaris: For the intrepid, the desert calls with the promise of adventure. Egypt’s desert safaris offer a cocktail of excitement, including:
- Quad biking over undulating sand dunes
- Camel treks that follow ancient caravan routes
- Nights spent under a tapestry of stars, the silence broken only by tales and music of the Bedouin.
These safaris are not just about the thrill; they’re a cultural immersion. Here are some activities you can enjoy:
- Visit a Nubian village to experience the richness of their music and art
- Delve into Egypt’s geology with a trip to awe-inspiring fossil sites
- Experience the adrenaline of sandboarding on the Red Sea riviera
- Discover the historical sites and leave your mark on the desert
The desert is a vast canvas, inviting you to explore and engage in these activities.
Water Sports Galore: The Red Sea beckons with its crystal-clear waters, a siren call to water sport enthusiasts. Here are some activities you can enjoy in the Red Sea:
- Scuba diving: An odyssey into an underwater kingdom, where coral reefs pulse with life, and marine creatures glide in the dappled sunlight.
- Snorkeling: Explore the reefs and observe the vibrant marine life from the surface.
- Water sports: Try your hand at windsurfing, kiteboarding, or jet skiing.
Whether you’re a seasoned diver or looking to snorkel amongst the reefs, Egypt’s waters are an open invitation to explore.
But why stop at diving? Kite surfing harnesses the power of the wind, jet skiing offers a high-speed chase with the waves, and swimming with dolphins is a dream fulfilled. With professional instructors and top-notch equipment on hand, the Red Sea is your oyster—ready to be enjoyed by beginners and pros alike.
Practical Tips for Your Trip to Egypt
Before you set off to chase the Egyptian sun, let’s iron out the practicalities so your holiday is as smooth as the sands of the Sahara. From navigating currency exchange to understanding travel requirements, a bit of preparation can go a long way.
Here are some nuggets of wisdom to pocket along with your sunglasses and camera.
Currency and Tipping
The Egyptian pound is the national currency. Although having a wallet full of them might make you feel like a pharaoh, understanding where to exchange your money is crucial. Approved bank kiosks and hotels offer exchange services, but remember to bring enough cash for those market haggling sessions and small-town excursions.
Tipping or ‘baksheesh’ is a way of life here, a gesture of thanks for services rendered. Whether it’s the waiter who brought you your mint tea or the guide who brought ancient local history to life, a tip is always appreciated. Keep in mind that service charges are often included in bills, so check before you tip to avoid overdoing it.
Travel Requirements
Your passport serves as your gateway to Egypt, so verify that it has a minimum validity of six months remaining. For British travelers, a visa is a must-have, and thanks to the wonders of the internet, you can secure yours before you even pack your bags through the official e-visa portal. Remember that travel money cards, prepaid cards that allow you to store multiple currencies and make payments in different countries, are also a convenient and secure way to manage your money while travelling abroad
Staying longer than 15 days or venturing outside the resorts of Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada? You’ll need a visa for that. And if your trip extends beyond the date on your visa, make sure to renew it to avoid fines. Also, keep an eye on health advisories and vaccination requirements—better safe than sorry.
Packing Tips
Given the unpredictability of Egypt’s climate, akin to a game of Senet, intelligent packing is crucial. Here are some essentials to consider:
- Light, breathable clothing to keep you comfortable when the mercury rises
- A few layers to fend off the evening chill
- A scarf, which is the Swiss Army knife of travel accessories, offering sun protection and modesty in equal measure
Sun protection is non-negotiable, so pack your highest SPF sunscreen alongside hats and sunglasses. And to keep your electronics juiced up and ready to capture every moment, don’t leave home without a universal travel adapter and a power bank. With sand being a constant companion, zip-lock bags will become your new best friends, keeping your gear sand-free.
Family-Friendly Holidays in Egypt
Catering to travelers of all ages, Egypt is a wonderland that fulfills all the criteria for an ideal family holiday. With resorts designed to delight both the young and the young at heart, and attractions that fascinate and entertain, your family holiday in Egypt will be one for the photo albums.
All-Inclusive Resorts: Family-friendly all-inclusive resorts in Egypt epitomize a hassle-free vacation. Places like Rixos Sharm El Sheikh and Steigenberger ALDAU Beach Hotel offer a cornucopia of activities, dining options, and relaxation opportunities—all included in your stay. With kids’ clubs and aqua parks on-site, these resorts promise fun for the little ones and peace of mind for the parents.
From the golden sands of Hurghada to the sandy beaches of Marsa Alam, these resorts have curated experiences that cater to family fun. Whether it’s splashing in the warm waters of the Red Sea or sliding down water park rides, these havens of luxury ensure that every family member leaves with a smile.
Kid-Friendly Attractions: Beyond the resort walls, Egypt’s kid-friendly attractions stand ready to enchant. Water parks like Aqua Blu Sharm El Sheikh and Jungle Aqua Park in Hurghada are a splash hit with families, offering slides and water adventures to keep the energy high and the excitement higher.
For a taste of culture and a touch of adventure, guided tours in Sharm El Sheikh can include camel rides across the desert and snorkeling trips that bring the underwater world up close. It’s the perfect blend of education and exhilaration, making every day in Egypt a fantastic place for family fun.
Summary
As the Egyptian proverb goes, “A beautiful thing is never perfect,” but an Egyptian holiday comes close. From the historic grandeur of Luxor to the underwater wonders of the Red Sea and the all-inclusive luxury of family-friendly resorts, Egypt is a destination that caters to every desire. With these tips, deals, and insights, your 2024/2025 holiday in Egypt is poised to be an unforgettable odyssey of discovery, relaxation, and adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Jet2holidays fly to Egypt?
Yes, Jet2holidays does offer flights to Egypt, including the resorts of Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada. So, if you’re up for some adventure in the land of pharaohs, Jet2holidays has got you covered!
Are holidays in Egypt expensive?
Nope, an Egypt holiday is actually quite affordable, especially for budget travelers. You can enjoy a lot without burning a hole in your pocket. So, pack your bags and get ready for a wallet-friendly adventure!
Why are holidays to Egypt so cheap?
Holidays to Egypt are so cheap because of the strong exchange rate from the British pound to the Egyptian pound, making it a great value for money compared to family holidays in other destinations. So, pack your bags and get ready for some affordable fun in the sun!
Is Egypt good for all inclusive holiday?
Absolutely! Egypt is fantastic for an All Inclusive holiday, offering year-round hot weather and plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy. So, pack your bags and get ready for a great time!
Which part of Egypt is best for holiday?
The best places in Egypt for a holiday are Hurghada for an all-rounder experience, Sharm el Sheikh for relaxation and luxury, Cairo for a taste of the ‘real’ Egypt, Luxor for history and culture, and the Red Sea for diving. So, just pick a spot and start planning your tan! No one likes sand in their pants.