Middle Egypt Travel Guide

Explore the rich cultural and natural heritage of Middle Egypt with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Middle Egypt

Located in the north-central part of Egypt, Middle Egypt is situated between Cairo and Luxor. Known for its rich cultural history and stunning natural landscapes, this region attracts visitors from all over the world. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at what Middle Egypt has to offer and provide you with information on the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Middle Egypt

Middle Egypt is home to many culturally important and natural landmarks that are worth a visit. Here’s a list of the top places to see:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Beni Hasan Tombs
  • Tuna El-Gebel Necropolis
  • Al Minya Museum
  • Abydos Temple
  • Hermopolis Magna

Natural Attractions of Middle Egypt: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • White Desert National Park
  • Wadi Al-Rayan
  • Magic Lake
  • Jabal Al-Tayr
  • Al-Fayyum Oasis

Hiking/Biking Routes of Middle Egypt

Middle Egypt has many hiking and biking routes that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the region’s stunning landscapes. Some popular routes include:

  • Al Fayoum Desert
  • Valley of the Whales
  • White Desert
  • Wadi Al Hitan National Park
  • Al Qasr to Qasr Al Sagha

Best Things to Do in Middle Egypt: Activities and Tours

Besides hiking and biking, Middle Egypt offers many other exciting activities and tours. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Hot air balloon ride over Luxor and the Valley of the Kings
  • Camel trekking in the desert
  • Fishing in the Nile River
  • Visiting local markets and trying traditional foods
  • Exploring ancient ruins and temples

Week-Long Itinerary for Middle Egypt

If you’re planning to spend a week in Middle Egypt, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit Beni Hasan Tombs and Tuna El-Gebel Necropolis
2 Explore Abydos Temple and Al-Minya Museum
3 Take a hot air balloon ride over Luxor and the Valley of the Kings
4 Go camel trekking in the Al Fayoum Desert
5 Visit Wadi Al-Rayan and Magic Lake
6 Explore White Desert National Park
7 Spend a day fishing on the Nile River

Food and Drink Scene of Middle Egypt

Middle Egypt is known for its delicious cuisine, which incorporates local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Molokhiya: a soup made from jute leaves and chicken or beef
  • Kushari: a hearty dish made with pasta, rice, lentils, chickpeas, and tomato sauce
  • Fatta: a dish made from bread, rice, and meat
  • Hamam Mahshi: stuffed pigeon cooked in a clay pot

Local Beverages

  • Hibiscus tea
  • Karkadeh: an herbal tea made from dried hibiscus flowers
  • Sugarcane juice
  • Mango juice

Where to Stay in Middle Egypt: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Middle Egypt offers a wide range of accommodation options, including luxurious hotels, budget-friendly hostels, and cozy guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:

  • Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa
  • Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruiser
  • Horus Hotel in Al Minya
  • Sandalhata Lodge in Al Fayoum
  • Gardenia Hotel in Beni Suef

What to Buy in Middle Egypt: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking to bring home a unique souvenir, Middle Egypt has plenty to offer. Here are some local products that are worth a look:

  • Handcrafted rugs and textiles
  • Pottery and ceramics from Al-Fayoum
  • Perfume oils
  • Spices and herbs

Local Culture and Customs of Middle Egypt

Middle Egypt has a rich cultural history that is reflected in its traditions and customs. Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting the region:

  • Dress conservatively, especially when visiting mosques and temples
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Be mindful of your behavior in public places
  • Learn some basic Arabic phrases to communicate with locals

Best Time to Visit Middle Egypt

The best time to visit Middle Egypt is between October and April, when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. Avoid the summer months when temperatures can soar above 40 degrees Celsius, making it uncomfortable for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Middle Egypt

When visiting Middle Egypt, it’s important to be aware of the cultural norms and customs. Here are some do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  • Dress conservatively
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Learn some basic Arabic phrases
  • Visit historic and cultural landmarks

Don’t:

  • Drink alcohol in public places
  • Show public displays of affection
  • Take photos of people without permission
  • Eat or drink during Ramadan in public

Safety and Health

While Middle Egypt is relatively safe for tourists, it’s important to take some necessary precautions. Here’s what you should know about safety and health in the region:

Safety in Middle Egypt

  • Avoid traveling alone at night
  • Stay alert and aware of your surroundings
  • Be cautious when using ATMs or carrying valuables

Health in Middle Egypt

  • Drink only bottled water
  • Protect yourself from the sun and heat
  • Bring insect repellent and use it regularly

Getting to Middle Egypt: Transportation Options and Logistics

Middle Egypt is easily accessible by air, road, and train.

Airports Near Middle Egypt

  • Cairo International Airport
  • Luxor International Airport
  • Aswan International Airport

Bus Stations Near Middle Egypt

  • Giza Bus Station in Cairo
  • Luxor Bus Station
  • Al Minya Bus Station

Other Options

  • Private taxis or car rentals
  • Nile River Cruises

How to Get Around in Middle Egypt

To get around Middle Egypt, there are several options to choose from:

  • Taxis and private cars
  • Public buses and microbuses
  • Trains
  • Nile River ferries

Where to Go Next from Middle Egypt: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time in Middle Egypt, consider exploring one of these nearby destinations:

  • Cairo: Egypt’s bustling capital city
  • Alexandria: a historic coastal city renowned for its Mediterranean charm
  • Aswan: a city filled with ancient temples, tombs, and beautiful scenery
  • Red Sea Riviera: a stunning coastline with world-class snorkeling and diving opportunities

Conclusion

With its rich cultural history, awe-inspiring natural landscapes, and exciting activities and tours, Middle Egypt is a destination worth visiting. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, hiking through the desert, or simply relaxing and taking in the scenery, Middle Egypt has something for everyone. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your next trip to this unique and beautiful region of Egypt.



    Beni Hasan
    Dendera
    Mallawi
    Minya
    Sohag