Top 10 Attractions in Egypt That Aren’t the Pyramids

Everyone and their mothers would have heard of Egypt’s Great Pyramids. The Pyramids of Giza reign supreme as one of world’s most important attractions, but what else does Egypt have to offer? Luckily, travellers are spoilt for choice. A nation with a long, rich and full history, you can find out here what else to discover in Egypt.

1. Temple of Horus in Edfu

A temple dedicated to the falcon-headed God, the Temple of Horus in Edfu is not to be missed. One of the best preserved monuments that can be found Egypt, there is plenty to discover within its ancient walls.

2. Philae Temple

Floating on the reservoir of Aswan Low Dam is Philae Temple. The island temple feature ancient markings and awe-inspiring hieroglyphics. It’s grand and collected image today hides the fact the structure was a rescue job. The Philae Temple was uprooted when it’s original location was prone to severe flooding. UNESCO decided to fish the temple out of its sinking state and relocate it. Thanks to the project, the temple can be admired from the Nile banks or up close.

3. Kom Ombo Temple

Kom Ombo is unlike anything you’ve seen before. It dates back to the Greco-Roman period, evident in the imposing columns. Temples are typically dedicated to one god, but the Kom Ombo Temple is unique for its dedication to both Sobek the crocodile God and Horus the falcon headed god. You will find beautiful and detailed etchings of both of these gods on their respective entrances.

4. Siwa Oasis

It’s what you imagine when dreaming of Egypt. Within the scorching heat and desert haze, an oasis splits through the grainy distance like an illusion. Thankfully, the Siwa Oasis is very much real. The human settlement is situated in the western desert, where residents can bear witness to the transforming desert and take a dip in Cleopatra’s pool.

5. Unfinished obelisk of Aswan

Fascinating and mysterious, the unfinished obelisks of Aswan are found in Northern Egypt. In fact, the unfinished obelisk is located in the stone quarry of ancient Egypt; where stone was extraverted for various obelisks and statues found across the country. The abandoned obelisk is about one third larger than average and its weight is equivalent to 200 African elephants!

6. Hatshepsut Temple

The mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut is an exceptional ancient structure located in Luxor. The honey gold temple is tucked away in the mountains with a uniquely elaborate layout. One step into the temple and you will be surrounded by obelisks, unrivalled artistry and walls full of hieroglyphs.

7. St Catherine’s Monastery

Seemingly in the middle of nowhere, you will find St Catherine’s Monastery. Dating back to 527, the monastery is located by Mount Sinai and was founded by the Byzantine emperor Justinian I. The monastery is thought to be the place where God appeared to Moses as the burning bush. It’s holy origins are only complimented by St Catherine’s beauty in the sweeping landscape.

8. Abu Simbel

Carved into the cliffside of the Nile’s bank is the magnificent Abu Simbel. Here two temples were built by Ramses II and are an exquisite feat of engineering.

9. The White Desert

As a counterpoint to Egypt’s iconic amber landscape, visitors are delighted and surprised by the outstanding White Desert. Strange and wonderful, the White Desert is a protected national park in Egypt and is a natural landscape of alien proportions.  

10. Sailing the Nile

Follow the path of the ancient Pharaohs and allow the Nile to show you Egypt. The famed River Nile splits through Egypt and is considered the longest river in Africa. Visitors are encouraged to lookout onto the banks for panoramic views of temples, palm trees and glorious scenery. 

Egypt’s monuments are waiting to be discovered and Travel Talk can help get you there. Whilst offering a range of tours that highlight Egypt’s best monuments, Travel Talk Tours will get you moving.

Related Content:

Seven Wonders of Egypt

How to Spend 9 Days in Egypt

The Most Colourful Villlage in Egypt

10 Tasty Egyptian Dishes You Need To Try

5 Reasons Why You Should Visit Egypt Right Now

5 Fascinating Facts About Egypt’s Suez Canal

Things To Do In Egypt: Don’t Leave Egypt without these 12 Best Experiences