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Unexplored Egypt: Secrets of the Land of Pharaohs.
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Egypt is a land of ancient wonders, bustling markets, golden deserts and virgin beaches. Most tourists head straight for the Pyramids of Giza and the Nile, but there’s much more than it might seem. This magical country has a wealth of undiscovered treasures waiting to be disclosed by the inquisitive traveler. If you’re looking for an experience that goes beyond the standard travel guide, it’s time to discover the secrets of Egypt.
Quite interesting facts about Egypt.
- Imagine: over 95% of Egypt is endless waves of sand dunes and dry lands. All life and economy is concentrated on a modest 5% of fertile land, where rivers, oases, and ancient villages are located. Cities create centers of civilization in the middle of the vast desert.
- The brilliance of the shining pyramids. Once the monumental pyramids of Egypt shone like huge mirrors, due to a smooth layer of white limestone that reflected the scorching sunlight. Nowadays only individual fragments remain of this original brilliance, like silent witnesses of the ancient greatness and skill of ancient stonemasons.
- Senet – a journey through time. One of the oldest board games in the world called Senet has been preserved in the depths of Egyptian history. This game, which played an important role in beliefs about the afterlife, symbolized the journey of the soul through the labyrinths of the past. Playing it is like looking into the reflection of ancient rituals that accompanied every step of a person in the world of the unknown.
- The “Lost” City Under Water. Somewhere in the depth of the Mediterranean Sea the once bustling port of Heraklion sleeps. This ancient city sank into the depths of the sea more than a thousand years ago, and its ruins were only reopened to researchers in 2000. A walk among the finds in the underwater ruins of Heraklion reminds of diving into the world of fabulous and mythical Atlantis.
- An impressive invention of the technology of glassmaking appeared thanks to the ancient Egyptians. They not only created unique faience decorations, but also laid the basic foundations of craftsmanship, which turned simple glass into real works of art, which still inspire designers and craftsmen around the world.
- Among the green oases of Faiyum, a real natural mystery is hidden called the “Magic Lake”. It changes its shades depending on the time of day, as if reflecting all the colors of the sky, and legends say that its waters have healing properties. To swim here is to feel the magic of nature, which gives not only aesthetic pleasure, but also peace of mind.
- Luxor is a living museum spread over thousands of square kilometers. The city literally breathes history: ancient temples, ruins and monuments create an incredible atmosphere, where each building tells its own story.
The hidden treasures of Egypt are places that cannot be found in standard guidebooks and itineraries.
Each of these places is a separate chapter in the magnificent history of Egypt, a history hidden from mass tourist routes. Discover these unique locations, and they will certainly give you a new vision of this ancient land, full of magic, mysteries and beauty that inspires new adventures.
- Wadi El-Khitan (Valley of the Whales). This place is a real open-air museum, where the desert hides fossils of ancient whales. Walking among the majestic stone forms, you feel the breath of the eras when sea giants still ruled the oceans. Protected by the status of a UNESCO site, Wadi El-Khitan invites you to immerse yourself in natural history, revealing the secrets of long-gone times.
- Catacombs of Kom El-Shoqafa Walking through the narrow and dark corridors of this underground necropolis in Alexandria is a real journey into the world of antiquity and mysticism. The darkness, pierced by the light rustle of time, tells stories of past civilizations, where every niche and every stone preserves the memories of those who walked this path long before us.
- El Gouna is a place on the Red Sea – a real oasis of luxury and tranquility, where modernity is intertwined with authentic spirit. Beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters and unforgettable sunsets make this place an ideal choice for diving and kitesurfing. El Gouna gives a feeling of freedom and unusual harmony, which is difficult to find in standard tourist routes.
- Saint Catherine’s Monastery is located at the foot of Mount Sinai, this monastery is one of the oldest Christian shrines in the world. Its ancient walls silently preserve the wisdom of the ages, and cozy corners are filled with peace and spiritual strength. Here you can not only touch history, but also find inner peace and balance, inspiring new achievements and challenges.
- Al-Muiz Street in Cairo. This hidden historical street is a true gem of Islamic architecture. A stroll along its cobblestone paths reveals majestic mosques, ancient buildings and of course the aroma of spices that fill the air and add a sophisticated oriental touch.
- Colored Canyon. The Sinai Peninsula is home to a natural wonder of bright rocks that take on rainbow colors and shades, creating an incredible landscape, perfect for taking photos and contemplating the boundless beauty of nature. Here, every second is filled with the magic of contrasts, energizing you for a long time.
- Fayoum Waterfalls. The Wadi El Rayan Nature Reserve is home to the only waterfalls in Egypt which is a true melody of life in the desert. The sounds of falling water harmoniously combine with the gentle rustle of the wind, creating an unreal atmosphere of peace and inspiration. This place reveals another side of Egypt, where nature gives unexpected impressions and unforgettable emotions.
Olga Mitkina (COO Deputy, Speroteck), who currently lives with her daughter in the capital of Egypt, shared her feedback about this extraordinary place with us.
“Wadi El Rayan is simply a fabulous place in the desert of Egypt! The reserve consists of seven parts: the upper and lower lakes, the El Rayan springs, waterfalls, Mount El Modawara (or Jabal El Modawara), Mount El Rayan (Jabal El Rayan) and the famous Valley of Whales (Wadi El Hitan). Every corner here is surprising: from oases to mountains and rocks, from waterfalls to incredible landscapes.
This is a natural cave where two lakes are connected by the only waterfall in Egypt! Can you imagine? There is a waterfall in the desert! In 1989, Wadi El Rayan was granted the status of a nature reserve to protect the local nature, geological and cultural wealth. The reserve covers an area of 1,759 km² in southern Faiyum.
On the territory you can find stalls, cafes, and recreation areas. Also there are strange bird houses. The El Rayan waterfalls are especially impressive. This is a truly unique place, they look simply incredible! What I remembered most was the fantastic contrast between the blue of the lakes and the golden sands of the desert. Driving through the desert, we constantly saw alternating golden and “black” sand. It was so interesting that my daughter and I simply asked to stop to take a closer look.
When we got out of the car and walked a little through the desert, we realized that “black sand” is not sand at all! These are such small, flat pebbles that shine in the sun with black spots against the background of golden dunes. It seems as if the desert changes color – pure magic! And on the way we came across a huge monument in the form of a fish made of tires. This definitely added a little fun to the trip!”
Traditional Egyptian cuisine
During your trip to Egypt, discover not only the ancient pyramids and the grandeur of historical monuments, but also the true magic of local cuisine. Egyptian cuisine is a true oriental fairy tale, intertwined with the aromas of spices, the freshness of local vegetables and centuries-old traditions that are felt in every dish.
Koshari (Egyptian street food) is a real symphony of flavors, where rice, pasta, lentils and tomato sauce form an unsurpassed harmony. On the streets of Cairo, this dish has become a symbol of modern Egyptian street culinary art, which successfully combines the simplicity of ingredients and preparation with a deep cultural heritage.
Ful Midamess (Traditional Breakfast) – is one of the real taste discoveries – gently stewed beans, filled with the aroma of garlic, lemon and olive oil. This dish, which Egyptians have been lovingly preparing for centuries, can warm both body and soul, especially on an unexpectedly cool morning while strolling along the ancient Nile.
And of course, we can’t forget about the fragrant Ta’miyya – an Egyptian version of falafel, which, thanks to the addition of fresh parsley and specially selected spices, acquires a unique taste. These golden, crispy balls are the perfect complement to a traditional breakfast or a light snack on a hot day.
In addition to the main dishes, Egyptian cuisine also impresses with its sweets. Exquisite desserts, such as Baklava or Kunnafa, reveal the sweet aroma of honey and nuts, which will be a wonderful end to a day full of taste discoveries.
Egypt is the cradle of the oldest civilization of mankind, which still remains a source of wonders and mysteries for the modern world. Whether you explore ancient tombs, dive in the Red Sea or taste traditional dishes, every traveler will find something unique in the Ancient Land of the Pharaohs.
Hurry up and pack your bags to go to discover Egypt!