TOP 10: EGYPT

Egypt, with its captivating past that dates back to the beginning of human civilization, holds the distinction of being the oldest travel destination in the world. For millennia, the remarkable temples and pyramids of this African nation have captivated the minds of explorers. While the primary allure of Egypt lies in its ancient monuments, there are also natural wonders that entice travelers. The Red Sea coast boasts magnificent coral reefs and idyllic beach resorts, while a journey through the Sahara Desert can unveil a rejuvenating oasis.

NUMBER 1: Situated in close proximity to the southwestern suburbs of Cairo, the Giza necropolis holds a significant place as one of the world's most famous ancient sites. Egypt's iconic image is epitomized by the pyramids and the Sphinx, which grace the Giza plateau. These remarkable structures were constructed over a span of three generations, attributed to Khufu, his son Khafre, and his grandson Menkaure. Complementing these grand monuments are various smaller satellite structures, such as queen pyramids, causeways, and temples.

NUMBER 2: Situated at the mouth of the Nile River delta, Cairo, the contemporary capital of Egypt, is a vibrant and bustling city that has witnessed a tumultuous history. Positioned near the former capital city of Memphis, modern Cairo serves as a popular embarkation point for Nile cruises and a gateway to the iconic Pyramids at Giza, located just beyond the city's borders. The renowned Egyptian Museum, located in Tahrir Square, offers visitors an opportunity to marvel at the treasures of Tutankhamun, alongside mummies and other artifacts that provide a glimpse into Egypt's ancient civilization.

NUMBER 3: Luxor, with its lush surroundings, provides a captivating backdrop for an array of extraordinary ancient structures. The meandering Nile gracefully winds its way through this area, with the contemporary city of Luxor situated on the East Bank and the ancient capital of Thebes on the West Bank. This once magnificent city of the ancient world now stands as a modern-day, open-air museum, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich history. On the East Bank, one can marvel at the renowned temples of Karnak and Luxor, while the West Bank is home to the captivating Valleys of the Kings and Queens.

NUMBER 4: Situated at the southern end of the Sinai Peninsula, Sharm el-Sheikh is a popular beach resort that appeals to both vacationers and diving enthusiasts. It is renowned for its exceptional diving opportunities, making it a favored destination among divers worldwide. In addition to its stunning coastline, Sharm el-Sheikh boasts a range of services provided by hotels and travel agencies, including organized tours by jeep, camel, or quad bike. Some of the most popular day excursions include snorkeling trips to Nabeq, thrilling jeep rides to the Colored Canyon, and unforgettable overnight visits to Saint Catherine's Monastery and Mount Sinai.

NUMBER 5: Situated in the desert on the western bank of the Nile River, approximately 25 miles south of Cairo, Dahshur is a necropolis that offers a more serene and secluded experience compared to Giza. With fewer visitors and shorter queues, exploring the impressive pyramids at Dahshur, such as the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, which were built during the reign of Pharaoh Sneferu, is a hassle-free experience.

NUMBER 6: Once a small and unassuming fishing village nestled by the Red Sea, Hurghada has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis. Today, it stands as a thriving resort town and one of Egypt's most frequented tourist destinations. With a plethora of sandy beaches and over 100 hotels, many of which are located along the shoreline, Hurghada has become a haven for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure. Its diving opportunities have played a significant role in attracting visitors from around the world.

NUMBER 7: Situated in the heart of the Sinai Peninsula, Mount Sinai is renowned as the exact location where Moses was believed to have received the Ten Commandments from God. Despite the scarcity of archaeological proof to support this claim, the mountain continues to be held in great reverence as a significant pilgrimage site. Additionally, it is home to the Monastery of Saint Catherine, a Greek Orthodox establishment that has stood the test of time since its establishment in the 6th century.

NUMBER 8: Siwa Oasis, located in close proximity to Egypt's western border, had long remained culturally isolated from the rest of the country until the late 19th century. In the present day, Siwa Oasis has gained immense popularity as a travel destination. Visitors are drawn to this city to indulge in the numerous freshwater springs, take leisurely strolls through extensive palm groves, and explore the ancient mud-built fortresses and remnants of Siwa's Greco-Roman heritage.

NUMBER 9: Alexandria, positioned along the Mediterranean shoreline, holds the distinction of being Egypt's foremost port and pivotal transportation hub. Its foundation dates back to 331 BC when Alexander the Great established the city, which subsequently became a renowned crossroads of the world. Regrettably, devastating earthquakes resulted in the destruction of several iconic historical sites in Alexandria, including a library that housed an impressive collection of over 500,000 books. Despite its faded cosmopolitan glory, the city still holds allure for visitors due to its diverse cultural attractions and glimpses into its storied past.

NUMBER 10: Located in the southernmost region of Egypt, Aswan is a mid-sized city positioned to the north of Lake Nasser. Although its own collection of monuments may be less significant compared to Luxor, Aswan serves as a hub for exploring the temples of Philae and Kabasha, as well as the Sun Temple of Ramses II at Abu Simbel, situated to the south. Additionally, it serves as an excellent starting point for excursions to the temples of Kom Ombo and Edfu, which are situated between Aswan and Luxor.