Few holiday destinations have the ability to stimulate the westerner's imagination the way Egypt does. From the majestic Egyptian pyramids, to Coptic churches and Islamic mosques, to beach getaways that rival the best in the world, and to scuba diving in the Red Sea, Egypt is one of those holiday destinations that simply cannot disappoint. Here's a look at Egypt by region, and what you'll want to see in each.
Lower Egypt
Keep in mind that Egypt's geography keeps the Nile River flowing from south to north, so 'Lower Egypt' is actually located in the far northern section of the country, bordering the Mediterranean Sea. In Lower Egypt, you'll find the bustling capital of Cairo, the largest city in Africa and the Arab world. Between the Egyptian Museum, which hosts the most extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts in the world, and shopping areas such as the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, you can spend an entire holiday just in Cairo and never run out of things to do.
Also in Lower Egypt is the city of Alexandria, the country's window to the Mediterranean Sea. Alexandria stands in the same category as Athens, Rome, and Carthage when it comes to the history of the Classical Period. Founded by Alexander the Great, it was Egypt's capital for nearly one thousand years; it was home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, along with one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages; and even as late as the nineteenth century it was one of the most important seaports in the world. Visitors to Alexandria today can explore its rich history, but it's also a very popular resort area thanks to its place on the Mediterranean Sea.
Middle Egypt
Fans of Egyptian history will enjoy a trip into Middle Egypt, located along the Nile River corridor. Middle Egypt is filled with ancient tombs; the capital of the 'heretic pharaoh' Akhenaten; Abydos, where Ramesside and Predynastic temples can be found; and Dendera, home of one of Egypt's best-preserved ancient temples.
Upper Egypt
Upper Egypt is located in the Nile River Valley, between Luxor and Aswan. Like Middle Egypt, Upper Egypt is popular with visitors thanks to its 'temple towns', or cities where well-preserved remnants of ancient Egypt can be found. One way to visit all these towns is through a Nile cruise, which will stop at points of interest along the way. The town of Luxor is the gateway to the Valley of the Kings, home of the pyramids.
Western Desert
Egypt's Western Desert region consists of a huge amount of land west of the Nile. There are five oases in this desert where towns are located. These make for interesting cultural excursions, but would not necessarily be the best place to base a holiday around.
Sinai Peninsula and the Red Sea Coast
To the east of the Red Sea is the Sinai Peninsula, once an undeveloped part of Egypt that has gained great popularity in recent decades as a perfect beach destination. Prime among Sinai Peninsula destinations is Sharm el Sheikh, where on any given day you will find thousands of English-speaking visitors soaking up the sun and enjoying the water.
The Red Sea Coast, to the west of the Red Sea, is another great beach holiday area. The Red Sea is particularly famous for its scuba diving, which is what draws most visitors.
Summary
Egypt has a little something for everyone. From romantic beach getaways to family vacations, not to mention the incredible richness of Egypt's culture, past and present, a well-planned holiday to Egypt should give everyone in the family a smile on their face.
