13 days in Egypt Itinerary

The land of pharaohs, pyramids, sphinxes, and papyrus, Egypt needs little by way of introduction. Visitors find more than a textbook readout of ancient history when visiting the country--the power, scale, art, and mysticism of its centuries-old culture bleed out from each landmark attraction and seep into the everyday life. Bustling markets, the slow-flowing Nile, the vast desert, and inspiring archeological sites often sit right alongside palaces of great excess and historical importance. All ensure you have plenty to see and do during your vacation in Egypt. In the wake of the Arab Spring in 2011, travel to certain areas where conflict and terrorism are deemed likely remains inadvisable for foreign visitors.

The opening of an international airport and subsequent development of hotels and resorts boosted tourism in Marsa Alam, a town on Egypt's Red Sea coast known for its world-class diving spots. While the town itself lacks historical and cultural attractions, it boasts scenic beaches that reveal a vibrant underwater world. On a scuba diving holiday in Marsa Alam, you're likely to encounter exotic marine life, from schools of tropical fish to octopuses, dugongs, and sea turtles. Things to do in Marsa Alam include activities like boating, kitesurfing, and swimming with dolphins.