Egypt is one of the great destinations that everyone should visit at some point in their life. Alongside the iconic attractions, the country has a fascinating ancient and modern history. Many of the must-see places are along the River Nile, so you can experience many of them in one trip. Make time to see and do as many of the below as possible.

1. Visit the spectacular Pyramids of Giza

No trip to Egypt is complete without gazing upon the majestic Pyramids of Giza. You truly have to see them with your own eyes to marvel at their beauty. They’re still the subject of great controversy about how they came to be, but the stone pyramids are certainly a great symbol of the sophistication of the ancient Egyptian civilisation. There are pyramids all across Egypt and the world, but these are the most famous by far.

2. Learn to dive in the Red Sea

The Red Sea is one of the most popular diving spots in the world. With its secluded position between Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, it benefits from clear and clean water which is perfect for maximising visibility. Stunning coral reefs and rich marine diversity mean it has everything needed for incredible diving.

3. Cruise along the River Nile

The Nile has been central to life in Egypt for thousands of years. If you look at a map, you’ll be able to see the importance it plays in the country’s geography and civilisation. It’s been a source of irrigation for farmland on its banks and a pivotal transportation and trade route up and down the country. On an Egypt River Cruise, you’ll be able to see life as it’s been for many millennia and take in the spectacular sights down the longest river in the world.

4. Enjoy a camel ride

You can’t go to Egypt without taking a camel ride. Camels are the traditional form of transportation through the desert because of their tolerance to heat and ability to go weeks without water. You’ll be able to find these services at any of the tourist hotspots, but be careful about scam artists.

5. Sleep in the desert under the stars

The White Desert is a largely empty space with a few awe-inspiring natural formations, but the national park well and truly comes alive at night. With little light pollution, you can look up to one of the most amazing views of the night sky anywhere in the world. Enjoy a night or two in remote Egypt and return to civilisation after some spectacular star-gazing.

6. Explore the Valley of the Kings

The famous burial ground of Tutankhamun and many other famous Egyptian royals, the Valley of the Kings is a seemingly desolate landscape with an incredibly rich history. Explore some of the 60 tombs that are gorgeously crafted and covered in hieroglyphics and artwork that detail ancient Egyptian life. It’s not far out of the city of Luxor, so you can tie in a visit and our next must-do…

7. See Luxor by hot air balloon

Luxor is a city with a fascinating blend of old and new. There’s no better way to see it than from above, and a hot air balloon ride is a magnificent experience if you can stomach heights. You’ll be able to gaze down at ancient monuments such as Karnak and the Colossi of Memnon and see how the modern city has been shaped by these incredible pieces of history.