15 Best Things to Do in Egypt Besides Pyramids
When someone mentions Egypt, the first image that comes to mind is always the Pyramids. But that doesn’t mean Egypt is only about the Pyramids. And no, I don’t mean camel rides near the pyramids, sunset by the pyramids, or the Sphinx night show. It almost sounds like I’m making another list about the pyramids, so let’s switch gears. Egypt has plenty of things to do besides Pyramids.
Rock Climbing – Kid and Adult Adventure Activity
Egypt’s desert landscapes are full of unique rock formations. The Sinai Peninsula, especially around Dahab and St. Catherine – is known for incredible climbing. Wadi Qnai and Wadi Hamam near Dahab are popular for sport climbing and bouldering, while the St. Catherine region offers traditional multi-pitch routes.
Horse Riding – Budget friendly Adventure Activity
Horseback riding on a dessert safari has its own vibe. It is an experience on a different landscape altogether. You can try it out by itself or part of a dessert safari.
Activity Tips
Be sure to ask for the helmet if not provided. Horse riding is affordable at places like Hurgadha or Marsa Alam as compared to Giza.
Jeep Safari – Family Adventure Activity
This is different from ATV rides. They too provide off-road adventure tour through rugged terrain of these deserts. This activity is relatively comfortable and safer compared to ATV rides when traveling with kids. Please be cautious and considerate, when you have children as passengers in your jeep ride. Same applies when you are choosing your operator.
Museum – Art, history, civilization and culture
Egypt has several museums. I am not a museum person myself, especially when travelling with kids. Although the Grand Egyptian Museum is one that I do recommend to have the experience of seeing an ancient mummified body. It was a wow moment to see those little details of their hair, nails preserved even after 2000 years.
Activity Tips
If traveling with kids, consider limiting the number of museums in your itinerary, as it’s easy for younger travelers to lose interest or need time to burn off energy.
Sand Boarding – Family Adventure Activity
If you have ever tried sliding down a snowy hill at your school, the desert sand boarding is something similar but you do not have to worry about your pants getting wet but just worry about the sand getting into your clothes. It is a fun and simple activity.
Khan El-Khalili – Food, Shop and Culture
A buzzing local market and plenty to shop for. Looking for a souvenir? You are at the right place. Local crafts to intricate artifacts explore this market for a vibrant Cairo walk across town. Be sure to shop smart and know what to watch out for.
Food Tour – Day and Night Activities
Food plays a major role in exploring the culture of a place. Even if you are not a foodie, you can try a shorter duration tour that covers your lunch plans. This way you get both covered under a single activity.
Activity Tips
Daytime food tours are generally better suited for travelers with kids, as it aligns well with their energy levels. Ingredient availability can vary by location, so be sure to check ahead if you have food allergies.
Hot Air Balloon – Family Activity
This has become a popular activity at Luxor, especially the sunrise ride with the views of ancient sites like the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple. Best part is you don’t have to break the bank like at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Sunrise balloon rides are best enjoyed during Egypt’s cooler months, making timing an important part of planning this experience.
Activity Tips
This activity may not be suitable for all age groups. Many tour operators have minimum age requirements, often starting at age 6. Age policies can vary, so it’s best to confirm with the provider before booking.
Private Sail Boat – Luxury Family Activity
Hire a private Sail boat or felucca and enjoy the tranquility of the Nile at your own pace. If you book a tour, they come with the Sailor, so you can sit back and enjoy the views.
Activity Guide
While life vests are typically available on boats and ships, it’s a good idea to confirm in advance that child-sized life vests are provided and how many are available, as they may be limited.
Old Islamic Cairo – Family Activity for all ages
Explore the Old Islamic Cairo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its density of medieval architecture, including mosques, madrasas, and palaces. Choose from the Citadel of Salah El Din, the Great Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha and the mosques of Sultan Hasan, Al-Rifa’i, Ibn Tulun, and al-Azhar or the first Islamic university. If time allows, consider pairing Cairo’s history with travel beyond the city for a more complete Egypt experience.
Dinner Cruise – Budget Friendly Family Activity
What more better than an evening cruise for traditional entertainment and dinner at the same time. To experience live music, belly dance and Tanoura performance, book a dinner cruise for the evening. Booking this tour, got me the best seats for viewing. I was even given the Riq(tambourine) to play the music mid performance.
Water Sports – Adventurous Family Activity
Water sports in a country that majorly is desert? Yes, but it has plenty of water bodies surrounding the country along with the famous Nile river. Snorkeling, Scuba diving to kayaking, there are several water sports Egypt has to offer.
Cruise from Aswan to Luxor – Standard and Luxury Activity
Cruise from Aswan to Luxor lasts 3- 4 days and helps you cover major ancient Egyptian sites like the High Dam, Philae Temple, Kom Ombo, and Edfu depending on the cruise you select. Fly to Ashwan and take a cruise from there to head to Luxor.
Desert Safari – Family Adventure Activity
Desert Safari is not about viewing the wild life in a desert, although you might spot a few. (My kid asked me that while I was reading this out loud, and honestly it was funny). As part of a desert safari, one can camp under the stars, enjoying the star gaze, ride a camel, or ride an ATV on the rugged desert terrain which is more personal and adventurous than a Jeep ride.
Sharm El Shiekh – All in One city for activities
Well the reason, I added an entire city as an activity itself is because the city alone offers a ton of activities to choose from beaches, rock climbing, dolphin viewing, diving, adventure sports to night life.
Activity Tips
Many water activities have age restrictions, and some nightlife venues – such as Farsha Café – do not allow children after sunset. It’s best to check age policies with the tour operator or venue in advance when traveling with kids.
Bottom Line
Egypt is so much more than its iconic pyramids. From desert adventures and water activities to ancient cities, vibrant markets, and peaceful Nile moments, the country offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re chasing history, culture, or a bit of adrenaline, these experiences prove that Egypt’s has many things to do besides pyramids.
Activities, tours, and entrance fees can quickly add to the cost of a trip. Paying for experiences like these with travel rewards cards allows us to earn points that we later use toward flights and hotel stays.