Abusir Travel Guide

Explore the culturally and naturally rich Abusir with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover top things to do including outdoor adventures, historical museums, and more.


Introduction to Abusir

Abusir is a small village located in the Giza Governorate of Lower Egypt, home to a series of ancient tombs and temples from the Old Kingdom period. Located only a short distance from the Great Pyramids of Giza, Abusir is a hidden gem for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike. Tourists must visit Abusir to explore the rich cultural heritage of the ancient Egyptians and enjoy the natural surroundings with hiking and biking routes, outdoor activities, and scenic views.

List of Places to Visit in Abusir

Abusir offers a variety of activities and experiences for everyone to enjoy, so take a look at our list of top attractions to explore while you’re there.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Abusir Necropolis: This ancient burial ground is home to a series of tombs, including those of the kings and queens of the Fifth Dynasty. You can see the tombs of King Sahure and Queen Khentkaus II in the northwestern part of the necropolis.
  • Sun Temple of Userkaf: This temple was built for King Userkaf during his reign in the Fifth Dynasty. The temple is home to a number of well-preserved reliefs of ancient Egyptian life and stories.
  • Egyptian Museum, Cairo: The Egyptian Museum is one of the most important museums in the world for ancient Egyptian history. The museum features a vast collection of ancient artifacts including the treasures of Tutankhamun.

Natural Attractions of Abusir: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Abu Gharib Canyon: This natural gorge is located a few kilometers from Abusir and is ideal for hiking and rock climbing. Many visitors come to Abu Gharib for the scenic views along the way.
  • Wadi El Rayan National Park: This national park is situated roughly 65 km from Abusir and is a popular destination for nature lovers. It includes several waterfalls, hiking trails, and picnic areas to enjoy.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Abusir

Abusir offers a range of hiking and biking trails, showcasing the beauty of the country’s natural landscapes. Some of the most popular ones are:

  • The Abusir-Cairo Bike Tour: This tour takes riders through the heart of Cairo and exposes them to the various historic and cultural sites of the city.
  • The Pyramids of Giza Bike Tour: A guided bike tour that takes visitors on a journey around the Giza Plateau. Visitors can admire the pyramids from different angles and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding area.

Best Things to Do in Abusir: Activities and Tours

Visitors to Abusir can enjoy a variety of activities, from exploring the ancient ruins to racing around the desert sand dunes. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Camel Riding: Explore the Wadi El Rayan National Park or the desert landscapes of Abusir from atop a camel. This is a great way to get a scenic tour of the area.
  • Sandboarding: For adrenaline junkies, sandboarding is a popular activity in the nearby desert areas. Visitors can rent boards and glide down the sand dunes at their own pace.

Week-Long Itinerary for Abusir

Here’s a suggested travel itinerary for a weeklong trip to Abusir:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Abusir, and check into your hotel
2 Tour the Abusir Necropolis and surrounding area
3 Visit the Sun Temple of Userkaf
4 Hike through the Abu Gharib Canyon
5 Visit the Egyptian Museum, Cairo
6 Enjoy a full-day tour of the Pyramids of Giza
7 Return home with unforgettable memories

Food and Drink Scene of Abusir

Abusir has a variety of restaurants and cafes that offer different cuisines, from local Egyptian dishes to international cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to try while you’re there:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kushari: A mix of rice, pasta, lentils, and fried onions, Kushari is a popular local dish in Egypt.
  • Ful medames: A staple breakfast dish in Egypt, ful medames consists of fava beans cooked with spices and served with bread.

Local Beverages

  • Karkade: A popular tea in Egypt, Karkade is made with a red hibiscus flower and is said to have numerous health benefits.
  • Sugar Cane juice: A refreshing drink made from freshly squeezed sugar cane.

Where to Stay in Abusir: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many accommodation options available in Abusir, ranging from budget hostels to five-star luxury hotels. Here are three great options:

  • Pyramids Adventure Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel with stunning views of the Giza pyramids, located near the Abusir Necropolis.
  • Le Meridien Pyramids: A luxury hotel located near the Pyramids of Giza, offering beautiful views of the ancient structures.
  • Fayrouz Plaza Beach Resort: A four-star hotel located on the Red Sea coast, featuring private beaches and a range of water sports activities.

What to Buy in Abusir: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Abusir has a variety of souvenirs and local products to bring home, from handmade crafts to traditional Egyptian spices. Here are some popular purchases:

  • Papyrus art: Papyrus art is a traditional Egyptian art form that involves painting on the dried stem of the papyrus plant.
  • Spices and herbs: A variety of traditional Egyptian spices and herbs are available for purchase, including cumin, coriander, and saffron.

Local Culture and Customs of Abusir

Egypt has a rich cultural heritage, and Abusir is no exception. Here are some tips to keep in mind when visiting:

  • Dress Code: Dress conservatively, covering your shoulders and knees, which are the minimum requirements in Egypt
  • Greetings and Gestures: In Abusir, greeting someone with a handshake is a standard practice. Avoid pointing with your finger or sole of your shoe as it is considered rude.

Best Time to Visit Abusir

The best time to visit Abusir is during the winter season, between November and February, when temperatures are moderate and perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Abusir

Here are some do’s and don’ts to be aware of when visiting Abusir:

Do:

  • Do bargain: Don’t hesitate to bargain for everything, from souvenirs to taxi rides, as haggling is a part of Egyptian culture.
  • Do try street food: Street food vendors in Egypt, especially in Cairo, serve some of the best local delicacies.

Don’t:

  • Don’t drink tap water: Tap water in Abusir is not safe for consumption, avoid it at all times.
  • Don’t wear shorts and tank tops: As already mentioned, covering up is a must when visiting Abusir and Egypt in general.

Safety and Health

Safety in Abusir

Abusir is a relatively safe place for visitors, but it’s still recommended to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Here are some tips to stay safe:

  • Avoid public demonstrations: In Cairo especially, it’s not uncommon for small protests and demonstrations to occur, which can turn hostile. Stay away from areas where protests are ongoing or expected to take place.
  • Visit popular and well-lit areas: Stick to well-lit areas of town during the night and don’t visit suburbs after dark.

Health in Abusir

Visitors to Egypt are recommended to follow the CDC’s recommended vaccination plan for the country, with routine vaccinations and additional shots for rabies, yellow fever, and typhoid. Travelers should also take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever and malaria.

Getting to Abusir: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are several ways to get to Abusir, including the following:

Airports Near Abusir

The closest international airport to Abusir is the Cairo International Airport, which is only a 35 km drive away.

Bus Stations Near Abusir

Cairo has several bus stations that offer both local and international transportation, including the Turgoman Bus Station, the Giza Bus Station, and the South Bus Station.

Other Options

In addition to the airport and bus stations, visitors can also book a taxi or hire a private driver to get to Abusir. However, be sure to negotiate the price beforehand as tourists are easily targeted for overcharging.

How to Get Around in Abusir

Getting around Abusir is relatively easy, with several transportation options available, including:

  • Taxis: There are many taxis available for hire, but it’s important to agree on the fare before heading off.
  • Buses: Most bus routes in Abusir travel to nearby towns and villages, which are much cheaper than taxis.
  • Rent a car: Visitors who cannot deal with public transport can hire cars from various firms in Abusir and Cairo.

Where to Go Next from Abusir: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Abusir is a great base from which to explore other nearby destinations of Lower Egypt, including:

  • Cairo: As the largest city in Egypt, Cairo is home to many ancient Egyptian wonders and modern amenities.
  • Suez Canal: The Suez Canal connects the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea, offering tourists a chance to take a cruise and enjoy spectacular views.

Conclusion

Abusir has a rich cultural heritage that offers a glimpse into the history of ancient Egypt. With its stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities, it’s a perfect destination for anyone who enjoys adventure and exploration. Visiting Abusir is an unforgettable experience that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

Pyramids of Sahure, Nuiserre and Neferirkare (from left to right) Pyramids of Sahure, Nuiserre and Neferirkare (from left to right) Entrance to the Mastaba of Ptahshepses Entrance to the Mastaba of Ptahshepses Pyramid of Sahure Pyramid of Sahure Pyramid of Neferirkare Kakai Pyramid of Neferirkare Kakai