Egypt
Egypt captivates with its powerful blend of ancient history, desert beauty, and vibrant culture. From the iconic pyramids of Giza to the bustling bazaars of Cairo and the serene Nile River, this is a land where the past and present flow together. Whether you're sailing to temples on a luxurious Nile cruise or exploring the mysteries of Luxor and Aswan, Egypt offers a journey unlike any other—both deeply enriching and endlessly inspiring.
Featured Itineraries
Egypt Pharaohs & Pyramids
Abercrombie & Kent Tour
Splendors of Egypt & the Nile
Uniworld River Cruise
The Egyptian Culture
Egyptian culture is one of the oldest and most enduring in the world—an extraordinary fusion of ancient customs, Islamic traditions, and modern influences. Family and hospitality lie at the heart of daily life, and visitors are often welcomed with warmth and generosity. From vibrant street markets and traditional music to colorful festivals and hand-crafted artistry, Egypt’s cultural spirit is alive in every corner. The legacy of ancient Egypt continues to shape modern identity, seen not only in its monuments but in the pride Egyptians take in their rich heritage and storytelling traditions.
Ancient Traditions
Many of Egypt’s modern customs are rooted in ancient traditions passed down for thousands of years. The use of henna in celebrations, protective amulets, and the continued practice of crafts like pottery, papyrus art, and jewelry-making all reflect a living connection to the past. Even storytelling and traditional clothing styles carry echoes of Egypt’s rich pharaonic heritage, blending ancient rituals with modern life.
Language
Arabic is the official language of Egypt, with Egyptian Arabic being the most widely spoken dialect. It’s a vibrant, expressive language that shapes daily communication, music, and media. Many Egyptians also speak English or French, especially in cities and tourist areas, making it easier for travelers to connect. Ancient Egyptian scripts, like hieroglyphs, remain an important part of Egypt’s cultural heritage, seen in monuments and museums across the country.
Religion
Religion is a central part of life in Egypt, shaping its culture, traditions, and daily rhythms. The majority of Egyptians practice Islam, and the call to prayer echoes across cities and villages five times a day. Christianity, particularly the Coptic Orthodox Church, also has deep roots, with ancient churches and monasteries still in use today. From mosque architecture to religious holidays like Ramadan and Coptic Christmas, faith plays a powerful role in Egypt’s identity and community life.
Featured Destinations
Ancient Egypt
Ancient Egypt is one of the world’s oldest and most fascinating civilizations, dating back over 5,000 years. It was a land ruled by powerful pharaohs, builders of monumental pyramids, and pioneers in writing, art, medicine, and astronomy. Along the fertile banks of the Nile, this civilization flourished—leaving behind temples, tombs, and hieroglyphs that still capture the imagination today. From the Great Pyramid of Giza to the golden treasures of Tutankhamun, Ancient Egypt’s legacy continues to inspire wonder around the globe.
Traditional Dishes
Tamiya
Tamiya is Egypt’s traditional falafel, made from crushed fava beans blended with fresh herbs and spices. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, it’s a beloved street food often served in pita with tahini and salad.
Mulukhiyah
Mulukhiyah is a beloved Egyptian dish made from finely chopped mallow leaves, simmered into a garlicky green soup with a thick, slightly viscous texture. Often served with rice and meat like rabbit, chicken, or lamb, it's a staple comfort food across Egypt. Though its texture can be an acquired taste, Mulukhiyah holds deep cultural roots—so much so that it was once banned by a Fatimid sultan in the 11th century for being too peculiar to his liking.
Kebab and Kofta
Kebab and kofta are classic Egyptian favorites—flame-grilled chunks of tender lamb and skewered, spiced minced meat cooked to smoky perfection. Often served with warm flatbread and a fresh tomato-cucumber salad, this flavorful duo is a staple meal loved for its bold taste and simple, satisfying sides.
Mahshi
Mahshi is a traditional Egyptian dish of vegetables, such as zucchini or grape leaves, stuffed with a fragrant rice and herb mixture. It’s slow-cooked in tomato sauce and loved for its comforting flavors.
Baklava
Egyptians have a deep love for sticky, syrup-soaked desserts—especially the rich, nut-filled filo pastries known collectively as baklava. These sweets come in many forms, such as konafa, made with a creamy filling and a crisp, shredded pastry crust, and basbousa, a semolina-based treat soaked in honey syrup and topped with hazelnuts.
Hawawshi
Hawawshi is a beloved traditional Egyptian dish made with a pita-like bread stuffed with spiced minced meat, onions, and peppers. Crispy on the outside and flavorful inside, it's a staple of home-style cooking—comforting, satisfying, and full of warmth.
Koshari
Koshari is one of Egypt’s most famous dishes, mixing macaroni, rice, and brown lentils, and topped with chickpeas, a spicy tomato sauce, and fried onions.
Pigeon
A prized Egyptian delicacy, Hamaam—stuffed pigeon—is traditionally raised in distinctive conical towers found across the countryside. The birds are typically filled with spiced rice or bulgur wheat (freek), then grilled or baked to perfection. Rich in flavor and deeply rooted in local tradition, it’s a dish often reserved for special occasions.
Basbousa
Basbousa is a sweet, semolina-based dessert with Ottoman roots, enjoyed across many countries under different names. In Egypt, it’s known as Basbousa and is typically baked thin, soaked in fragrant sugar syrup, and topped with almonds or fresh cream. Soft, moist, and delicately sweet, it’s a favorite treat that has won hearts far beyond its origin.
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