Egypt never ceases to amaze anyone who visits. With majestic, centuries-old temples and fascinating deserts, Egypt is an unmatched country. We all might have been familiar with Egypt, as it is home to the world’s most magnificent civilization and enchanting historical sites. Places like the Pyramid of Giza and Luxor will surely ring a bell. However, there are a lot of off-the-radar places in Egypt that are worth exploring. Take a peek at their mysterious beauty and get ready for a thrilling adventure. Here are the nine best Egypt hidden gems that would leave you in awe. Check them out for your next trip to Egypt!
Egypt Hidden Gems to Visit – Summary
- Catacombs of Kom El-Shofaqa
- Shali Fortress
- The Tombs of the Nobles
- Cave of Beasts
- Wadi El-Weshwash
- Blue Desert
- Salt Mountain
- Abdeen Palace
- Elphinstone Reef
Catacombs of Kom El-Shoqafa
Location: Alexandria
Entering this ancient spot makes you feel like you are in a Tomb Raider episode! The Catacombs of Kom El-Shofaqa is an Egyptian and Roman underground burial site. It dates back to the second century and has a prominent status as one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages. Among all historical places in Egypt, the Catacombs of Kom El-Shoqafa are unique as it displays a fusion of different cultures.
The catacombs present a collaboration of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman cultures. The doors and stairs to the catacombs are adorned with Egyptian and Roman statues, as well as Roman-styled pillars. Moreover, carvings of Egypt and Greek mythology decorate the walls. Therefore, it is one of the best hidden gems in Egypt you can visit.
Shali Fortress
Location: Siwa
It is puzzling that this charming fortress in Egypt stays off the radar. Shali Fortress is a magical historical site in the heart of the Siwa oasis. The fortress was built between the 12th and 13th centuries and served as the settlement of the Siwi people. Since 1926, the fortress is abandoned due to a big flood in the area. However, the fortress becomes an enchanting historical spot and viewpoint that people are curious about.
Shali Fortress has a remarkable architectural style, resembling classic desert houses. Thus, it was built with a unique material. Shali Fortress is made out of kershef, a mixture of salt, mud, and sand. For that reason, Shali Fortress is one of the most unique places to visit in Egypt.
The Tombs of the Nobles
Location: Aswan
Often overlooked by tourists, the Tombs of the Nobles is a brilliant alternative to the Valley of the Kings. The site offers majestic ancient tombs with a more serene atmosphere. Dating back to the Old and Middle Kingdoms of Ancient Egypt, the tombs have elegant entrance halls, fascinating pillared rooms, and amazing tombs. They are the tombs of governors, administrators, and noblemen during Ancient Egypt. It is one of the best Egypt hidden gems you can include in your itinerary.
Tucked on the west bank of the Nile River, you can reach the tombs by hopping on a boat. However, you might need a guide to visit the tombs. Thus, there are several different tombs to explore in the complex. It is a great place to visit in Egypt if you are looking for something less touristy.
Cave of Beasts
Location: Wadi Sura
If you are looking for a site other than temples and tombs, Cave of Beasts is for you! The centuries-old cave belongs to the Neolithic period and displays intriguing illustrations. Located in the middle of an arid desert, the Cave of Beasts is one of the most charming places to visit in Egypt. It is a timeless monument of ancient human civilization.
When visiting the Cave of Beasts, you can marvel at the murals on the cave walls. It is adorned with different illustrations of humans and animals. You can see paintings of regular everyday life, like cooking and dancing. Thus, it is a unique Egypt hidden gem that is worthy to check out!
Wadi El-Weshwash
Location: South Sinai
The magical site shows us what a ‘hidden gem’ is all about! Tucked between the granite mountains of South Sinai, lies the glimmering turquoise body of water. Like an oasis, Wadi El-Weshwash adds a splash of freshness to its arid surroundings. Thus, the waters in Wadi El-Weshwash natural pool are warm, safe, and clear. You can dip yourself into the waters and relax in this unique hidden beauty.
To reach Wadi El-Weshmash, you can go on a jeep tour to Sinai. Then, go for a 90-minute hike along the valleys of South Sinai. During the hike, you can also see the magnificent Colored Canyons. The long hike will be paid off as you reach the turquoise natural pools!
Blue Desert
Location: Sinai
This unreal landscape in Sinai will leave you in awe! Among the sandy desert, stands a plethora of striking blue boulders. Although it looks absolutely stunning, the boulders are actually an art installation. It is a piece of art by Jean Verame, a Belgian artist. Thus, it was built after the Peace Agreement and acted as the monument of Peace, symbolized by the color blue.
Blue Desert is one of the most unique places to visit in Egypt. Moreover, it is still unheard of by a lot of tourists, making it one of Egypt’s hidden gems. The blue boulders look unbelievable, adding colors to the arid desert. So, make sure to snap a lot of pictures here!
Salt Mountain
Location: Port Fouad
Are you looking for an unbelievable spot in Egypt? Then, head to Salt Mountain! Located in the northern Egypt town of Port Fouad, Salt Mountain is a hidden gem overlooked by tourists. Like its name, the spot features a series of pure white salt mountains. It resembles a snowy landscape, something that you cannot find in a country with a hot desert climate. For that reason, Salt Mountain becomes an emerging tourist destination.
To see Salt Mountain, you can take a ferry ride through the Suez Canal. Thus, you can do many things in Salt Mountain. From taking pictures to skiing, enjoy a snowy activity without the biting cold.
Abdeen Palace
Location: Cairo
Head to Cairo and see one of the fanciest hidden gems in Egypt. Abdeen Palace is the presidential residence of Egypt. Thus, it was once the residency of the Egyptian royal family. Abdeen Palace was built in eye-catching, sumptuous architecture. Besides its lavish exterior, the interior of the palace is breathtakingly beautiful. It is one of the most beautiful castles in the Middle East.
Although Abdeen Palace is a presidential site, people can enter some parts of the palace and the museum. You can see fancy artifacts and items in the museum, such as royal porcelain and elegant silverware. Moreover, you can also find gifts from other nations, such as a Samurai crown from Japan and jewelry from Europe.
Elphinstone Reef
Location: Red Sea
The Red Sea is renowned for its world-class diving sites and Elphinstone Reef is one of them. Although incredibly stunning, Elphinstone Reef is still off the radar. Located 12 miles off Marsa Alam, the reef is one of the best Egypt hidden gems for nature lovers, especially divers.
Elphinstone Reef has a diverse underwater life. It is home to iconic fishes, such as blue damselflies and morays. Thus, you can also find white-tip sharks and hammerhead sharks in the area. The coral reefs are also enchanting, offering you an experience you can find nowhere else. Therefore, Elphinstone Reef is one of the best places to visit in Egypt for diving.
These Egypt hidden gems are surely awesome to see! So, are you ready to travel to Egypt and visit its fascinating hidden gems?
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