Egypt is a destination that is near the top of every world traveler’s bucket list. Egyptophile or not, you cannot help but be awed by Egypt’s jaw-dropping monuments and history as a powerful civilization that laid the foundations for modern life. Selecting 20 photos to inspire you to visit Egypt was not easy! From chaotic Cairo in the north to laid back Aswan in the south, the present is always juxtaposed with the past. It was a childhood dream to visit the land of the mighty Pharaohs and immerse myself in the enthralling history seen in movies and documentaries. Memories of my most epic journey to date are still vivid and I always dream of returning!
Reasons why I chose these 20 photos to inspire you to visit Egypt
The Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza
I know they’re ultra touristy, but the Pyramids of Giza and Sphinx are a MUST. Why? They’re the last of the 7 Wonders of the ancient world!
I kissed a girl and I liked it!
Behold the ancient grandeur!
The Egyptian Museum, Cairo
The Egyptian Museum in Cairo is a glorious treasure trove of relics for history lovers. See the mask and possessions of the boy-king King Tutankhamen! And be sure to visit the Royal Mummies collection to view some of the most important rulers in ancient history!
What’re you waiting for…let’s go!
The Luxor Temple
Modern day Luxor was once the location of the city of Thebes, the ancient capital of Egypt. The Luxor Temples will blow your mind with their colossal statues, obelisks and pillars. Dedicated to the worship of sun god Amun, they were important political and religious centers. Luxor Temple was once connected to the Temple of Karnak by an avenue of sphinxes, however, only small number remains today.
I felt as insignificant as an ant before these colossi of Pharaoh Ramses II !
Giant obelisk of red granite at the Luxor Temple
Statues of Pharaoh Ramses II as the god Osiris
The Karnak Temple, Luxor
The Karnak Temple was a city of temples that was extremely important as contact point between sun god Amun, the supreme deity, and the Pharaoh, who represented the people. As I mentioned above, the temple was connected to the Luxor temples via an avenue of Sphinxes.
The Incomparable Karnak Temple with Avenue of Rams
Close up shot of the Rams with figures of the Pharaoh between their hooves.
Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, Valley of the Kings
The Temple of Queen Hatshepsut was built by Egypt’s first female ruler of the same name. This audacious woman seized power from her young stepson, Thutmose III, and declared herself Pharaoh! She built this vast tomb complex for herself in the Valley of the Kings.
Horus, the falcon headed god
Hathor – goddess of fertility, motherhood and beauty
Abu Simbel Temples, Aswan
Aswan is home to the spectacular UNESCO Heritage site, the Abu Simbel Temples. The temple compound consists of the Great Temple and Small Temple. Both were built by Ramses II to commemorate his battle victory against the Hittites and to honour himself and his favourite wife, Queen Nefertari.
Great Temple of Abu Simbel
Ramses II and his favourite wife, Nefertari
Queen Nefertari, Ramses II most beloved wife
Nile River Cruise, Aswan
A river cruise is a great way to relax and view the gorgeous scenery of the Nile. Purchase lunch on your way back from touring the Abu Simbel Temples and enjoy it onboard. Later, take a refreshing dip in the cool river waters!
Afternoon boat cruise on the Nile !
My guesthouse’s river boat that cruises the Nile river!
We’re all aware of recent travel advisories and security concerns regarding Egypt. Note however, that if an incident happens in one area it doesn’t mean that the entire country is in an uproar! As with all destinations, exercise common sense and be vigilant. I hope my 20 selected photos will pique your interest and inspire you to visit this amazing country!
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