Egypt Travel

Marhabâ! Welcome to Egypt! Egypt has captivated the world with its monuments to the past and the vibrant culture of one of the most ancient civilizations in the world. Travelers, scholars, diplomats, and conquerors have ventured to Egypt to wonder at this "Gift of the Nile". Be part of the magic as Silk Road Treasure Tours unfold a world of mystery and glory, of fantasy and desert beauty.

Since 3000 BC a series of dynasties have controlled Egypt. The pharaohs Tutankhamen, Nefertiti, and Ramses presided over the grandest cities of their time, commissioning pyramids and temples that continue to inspire awe. Persians and Greeks sought control, and the Romans eventually introduced Christianity. Arab conquerors reached Egypt in the early seventh century, bringing their faith and language. After Ottoman expansion into North Africa and then Napoleon's brief stint of control, British forces occupied Egypt and remained through the middle of the twentieth century. Modern Egypt reflects these Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and African influences, making it a must-see cultural center; a diverse and exciting feast for the senses.

Fly into Egypt's capital, Cairo, and enjoy the "City of a Thousand Minarets". Its extravagant Islamic architecture, with soaring towers that disappear into clear skies contrast with the European-style Abedeen Palace, an official residence of the Egyptian president. Venture through one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Pyramids of Giza, massive funerary edifices that have enticed travelers since their construction. Outside the Pyramid of Khafre, encounter the Sphinx, guardian of the city. Stroll along the Nile, the world's longest river. Especially remarkable is the Mosque of Mohammed Ali, which dominates the colossal Citadel complex. Unearth Egyptian history in the archaeological exhibits of Cairo's Museum of Egyptian Antiquities. Take a daytrip to the ancient city of Memphis, with its breathtaking pyramids and monuments. By nightfall, return to Cairo and feel the energy of this unfathomably gorgeous blend of ancient and modern that attracts so many travelers to Egypt. Modern Cairo was developed in the 1800's after the opening of the Suez Canal to impress visiting foreigners. Emulating Paris, it continues to impress visitors with its distinctly European air.

On the site of the Ancient Egyptian capital of Thebes on the southern stretch of the Nile, Luxor is the "World's Greatest Open-Air Museum". A UNESCO World Heritage site it has been drawing visitors since the Greeks and Romans! The Temples of Karnak, with their looming obelisks and pylons, enigmatic hieroglyphs and silent tombs are testaments to the ancient polytheistic Egyptian civilization. Visit the spectacular memorials dedicated to the gods Amun-Ra, Mut, and Khonsu. Journey through the enormous burial ground for the pharaohs, the legendary Valley of the Kings to the tombs of Tutankhamen and Ramses the First. Enter the Valley of the Queens where Nefertari's lavish tomb will enthrall you. In the city proper, immerse yourself in Egyptian local culture, have your name drawn in a cartouche, shop for local alabaster or indulge in the fragrant oils of Eyptian perfume.

A short domestic flight from Luxor, Alexandria is the "Pearl of the Mediterranean". Alexander the Great founded this city on the sea which later became home to the seductive empress Cleopatra. It was, and still is, a beacon of culture on the Mediterranean coast. Fort Qaitbey, a giant fortress is built on the location of the Pharos Lighthouse, one of the original seven wonders of the ancient world. Centuries of learning and scholarship are preserved in the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a commemoration and emulation of the original Great Library of Alexandria. Adventure through the catacombs of Kom Ash-Shuqqafa, an underground Roman burial chamber that is shrouded in mystery. With such a varied cultural heritage, restaurants galore tempt you with delicious Mediterranean cuisine and traditional Egyptian delights as you saunter along the seashore.

Sharm-el-Sheik on the Sinai Penninsula has plenty of history, too, but lovely beaches and waters just made for diving and snorkeling. Swim the Red Sea, explore archaeological wonders, enjoy the ride from the heights of a camel, or the deck of a felucca on the Nile or cruise the dunes in the desert. Silk Road Treasure Tours wil unveil the mysteries of the past as you travel to Egypt on an unforgettable journey!