Egypt (Africa)

Egypt is synonymous with Pharaohs, the pyramids, temples and antiquities from ancient civilisations. And at the centre of these great civilisations lies the Nile River that has influenced their economics, social life, politics and religion. It is the oldest travel destination on earth: Greek and Roman travellers came in 430 BC to wonder at some of the very sights that make it a modern travel destination today. The magnificence of the painted Valley of the Kings, exquisite temples and the pyramids were all sought-after subjects of admiration, and many were already 2,500 years old!

From desert landscapes and dry, rugged mountains that reach to the sea, dusty cities full of exotic sounds and smells, and green strips of agricultural land snaking along the banks of the Nile, Egypt has something to offer all travellers from all walks of life. Spectacular diving in the Red Sea; unique desert experiences, whether on the back of a camel to Mount Sinai or on a jeep safari to the inner oases; the colour and chaos of Cairo and its markets; and felucca cruises on the Nile River are just some of the exotic attractions awaiting visitors. Egypt promises an unforgettable experience of history and relaxation - a mixture of discovery and pleasure.

Near Cairo you'll find the Great Pyramids and Sphinx at Giza, the Step Pyramid at Saqqara and the ancient capital at Memphis, while in Upper Egypt there's the Valley of the Kings; the temples at Luxor, Karnak, Deir el-Bahri (Hatshepsut), Edfu, Dendera, Kom Ombo and Philae; the awesome twin temples of Abu Simbel, and a wealth of vast statues, temples and monuments in between.

In fact, just when you think you've seen everything, the sands and seas give up some new wonder: a valley of golden mummies, Cleopatra's palace, a new cache of statues, or yet another tomb.

There's the promise of new man-made attractions, too - the foundation stone has just been laid for a huge new Egyptian museum near the Pyramids and a re-creation of the great library of ancient Alexandria is about to open.

Luxurious new resorts are being built alongside established tourist areas, ever-expanding the choice for holidaymakers.

For watersports, fantastic beaches and some of the best diving and snorkelling in the world, head for the Red Sea resorts - Sharm el Sheikh, Hurghada, Nuweiba, Taba, Dahab and Marsa Alam.

Looking for adventure? The Sinai Peninsula offers the remote St Katherine's Monastery, site of Moses' Burning Bush, the Coloured Canyon, camel and jeep safaris and camping out in Bedouin-style tents. And if you really want to get off the beaten track, there are the oases of the Western Desert to explore.

But perhaps the country's best asset is its people: you'll find the Egyptians warm and welcoming whichever area you visit, and always keen to share their culture and incredible heritage.

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