10 Surprising Facts about Egypt

10 Surprising facts about Egypt, Around Egypt Tours


Ancient Egypt is referred one of the most evocative periods in history that schoolchildren learn.

But even now, thousands of years later, we are still learning new things about how people lived. Although the land of pharaohs, mummies and majestic cats is widely known and recognized, there are many interesting facts about Egypt that many people are unaware of. Here is a laydown of the top ten facts about ancient Egypt:

The ancient Egyptians loved board games.

After a long day of work along the Nile River, Egyptians often relaxed by playing board games. Numerous different games have been played, including "Mehen" and "Dogs and Jackals," but perhaps the most popular was a gambling game known as "Senet ."This hobby dates back to 3500 BC., and it was played on a long painted board with 30 squares. Each player had a series of pieces that moved on the board based on the roll of the dice or the throw of sticks. Historians still argue over Senet's exact rules, but there is no doubt about the game's popularity.

The pyramids were not built by slaves.

The life of a pyramid builder was certainly not easy: workers' skeletons often show signs of arthritis and other ailments, but evidence suggests that communal graves were not built by slaves but by wage earners. These former construction workers were a mix of skilled craftsmen and temporary hands, and some appeared to be proud of their craft. Graffiti found near the monuments suggests that they often gave their crews humorous names such as "Drunk of Menkaure" or "Friends of Khufu ."The idea of slaves building pyramids with the crack of a whip was first evoked by the Greek historian Herodotus in the 5th century BC. However, most historians now dismiss it as a myth. Although the ancient Egyptians were certainly not averse to owning slaves, it appears that they used them primarily as laborers and servants.

Cleopatra was not Egyptian.

Another interesting fact about Egypt is that Cleopatra, one of the most famous figures of ancient Egypt, is actually Greek, not Egyptian. Although she was born in Alexandria, she had no Egyptian blood and was instead a descendant of the Ptolemaic dynasty, which was a line of Greek Macedonians. The Ptolemaic dynasty ruled ancient Egypt from 323 to 30 BC. The name Cleopatra is actually Greek for "Famous in her father" or "The fame of her father."

Makeup And Ancient Egyptians

The ancient Egyptians believed that makeup had healing powers that protected them from the sun, and therefore makeup was worn by both men and women. The black eye paint we know so well from ancient Egyptian depictions was made of red, and they also used green makeup made of copper.

The Egyptians saw animals as embodiments of the gods!

Falcons, lions, baboons, and dogs were extremely popular animals among the ancient Egyptians. The animals were mummified and buried with their owners after their death;

accompany and watch over the dead.

Many of the gods were represented in therianthropic forms;  part human, part animal. In some cases, they were completely animal.

Egyptian women had a wide range of freedom and rights.

Although they may have been publicly and socially viewed as inferior to men, Egyptian women enjoyed great legal as well as financial independence. They could buy and sell belongings, serve on juries, make wills, as well as even enter into legal contracts. Egyptian women did not normally work outside the home, but they did, and they usually received the same pay for doing the same jobs as men.

Compared to the women of ancient Greece, who were actually the property of their husbands, Egyptian women also had the right to divorce and remarry. Egyptian couples were even known to negotiate an ancient prenuptial agreement. These contracts listed all the property and wealth the woman had brought into the marriage and guaranteed that she would be compensated in the event of a divorce.

A new capital

Cairo has been Egypt's capital for more than 1,000 years, but the government is building a new capital of about 45 kilometers (28 miles) to the east to ease Cairo's congestion. The plans call for the yet-to-be-named city to be home to major government departments and ministries, as well as foreign embassies.

The 356 days calendar

The calendar of 365 days divided into 12 months was invented in Egypt.

Egyptian gods

The ancient Egyptians believed greatly in more than 2,000 gods! They had gods for everything from chores to danger! They all had different responsibilities and had to be worshiped so that life could be kept in balance.

One of the largest dams in the world is located in Egypt

Egypt is home to one of the largest dams in the world. The Aswan Dam is referred to as the largest embankment dam in the entire world, stretching across the Nile, separating Egypt from Sudan and creating Lake Nassar. Lake Nassar is one of the largest bodies of water in the world.

Many of the things that people cherish in their lives today were invented by the ancient Egyptians, including paper and pens, keys and locks, and even toothpaste.

Well, here are some fun facts about Egypt that a lot of people probably didn't know about.

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Frequent Asked Questions

What is included in an Egypt travel package?

Most Egypt travel packages would have hotels, tours of a few major historic sites such as the Pyramids, Luxor, and Aswan, airport transfers, some meals included, and transport like Nile cruises, buses, or trains.

Is it safe to travel to Egypt?

Egypt is a safe country to visit for tourists; this includes the extremely crowded places like Cairo, Luxor, and the Red Sea resorts. Also, be updated with any travel warnings from your government.

What is the best time to visit Egypt?

The best time to visit Egypt would be in the cooler months, from October through April, because it would be much more pleasant to visit the ancient sites than during the very hot summer months between May and September, when temperatures usually soar, especially in desert areas.

Can I customize my Egypt travel package?

Yes, Around Egypt Tours customizes your Egypt travel packages. Therefore, you can adjust your itinerary to include particular destinations and activities or even extend the time frame of your trip. Do check with your service provider about customization availability.

What types of Egypt travel packages are available?

Egypt travel packages vary, from short tours in Cairo to longer ones that include Nile cruises, beach resorts like Sharm El Sheikh, or adventure packages for more stubborn areas of the country. Luxury packages exist for premium Nile cruises or exclusive stays on Dahabiya boats.

Are there Egypt travel packages for solo travelers?

Yes, the majority of Egypt tour packages are suitable for solo travelers, providing private packages or group tours. Solo travelers can enjoy the security and convenience of guided tours while exploring Egypt's sites.

Can I visit the beaches during an Egypt travel package?

Yes,  all of these Egypt packages also provide beach resorts, mainly for places like Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Dahab. These are famous for clear water, coral reefs, and also having amenities to carry out water activities like snorkeling and diving.

Are Egypt tours Packages suitable for families?

Yes, there are family-friendly Egypt tours focusing on families with children. These tours often include fewer activities, child-friendly hotels, and tailored experiences to ensure that younger travelers are busy discovering the marvels of Egypt.

What should I expect on a Nile cruise in Egypt tour packages?

A Nile cruise is among the highlights of most Egypt tour packages. Relax in comfortable, typically luxurious accommodations with wonderful views of the Nile River. The cruise will typically include daily excursions ashore to ancient temples, tombs, and historic sites, as well as onboard activities, meals, and relaxation.

How long is a typical Egypt holiday Package?

Most Egypt holiday packages could possibly range from 5 to 10 days, some even lasting up to two weeks. Of course, a shorter package would mostly cover Cairo and the Pyramids, whereas extended trips usually include a Nile cruise or travels to several cities: Luxor, Aswan, and Alexandria.

Can I customize an Egypt holiday package?

Yes, Around Egypt Tours offers customizable holiday packages. You can customize the itinerary to your liking, choosing some locations, accommodation types, or special activities like hot air ballooning over Luxor or Red Sea diving.

What are the must-see attractions in the Egypt Tour Package?

Cairo: Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, Egyptian Museum.
Luxor: Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple.
Aswan: Abu Simbel temples, Philae Temple, Nile cruises.
Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada: Red Sea resorts with diving and snorkeling opportunities.
Alexandria: Roman ruins, the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa.

What are the top Egypt tours?

Several incredible Egypt tours are waiting for every traveler on various days, prices, and types. Here are the Top Egypt tours:

Short Break Egypt Tours for 05 Days start from 649$

Egypt And Jordan Tours 06 Nights starts from 1080 $

Egypt Tours from USA 08 Days Cairo and Nile Cruise starts from 1299$

10 Days Cairo, Alexandria, and Nile cruise starts from 1399 $

All Inclusive Trips To Egypt From USA starts from 1549 $

 Egypt and Morocco Tours in 11 Days starts from 2300 $

 

 

Why book with Around Egypt Tours?

At Around Egypt Tours, we ensure an unparalleled travel experience by crafting meticulously curated itineraries tailored to your preferences. With our expert local guides, seamless logistics, and dedication to customer satisfaction, we guarantee an immersive journey through Egypt's wonders. From exclusive access to hidden gems to personalized attention, trust us to transform your Egypt travel into an unforgettable adventure, ensuring every moment resonates with authenticity and discovery.

What should I look for in an Egypt tours itinerary?

A good Egypt tour itinerary should include all of the top attractions, such as the Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum, as well as some lesser-known but equally fascinating sites. It should also allow for some free time to explore on your own and include activities that interest you, whether that's a Nile River cruise or a hot air balloon ride over Luxor.

Can I go inside the pyramids during my Egypt tours?

Yes, you can enter some of the pyramids, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu, but there might be additional fees and limited access for preservation purposes.

Are Egypt Tours Safe for Travelers?

Egypt has been one of the best and safest tourist destinations for decades. Surrounded by warm Egyptian hospitality with friendly locals, you will feel at home and as safe as ever. When visiting Egypt tourist places it is important to follow some sensible precautions and recommendations, you will be able to explore and enjoy the generally safer cities in Egypt with a calm mind. With a generally low crime rate, visitors will be more than safe, especially in areas that are frequently visited by tourists.

Can I use my credit card in Egypt?

Major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's always a good idea to carry cash as a backup, especially when shopping in local markets.

How budget-friendly are Egypt tours for travelers?

Egypt is a very affordable destination that you can visit on a budget. Many western and local hotel options meet everyone's travel budget and style. If you are a budget traveler, you can see and do a lot in Egypt without spending a lot of money.
Browse our Egypt travel packages, and you'll find the most affordable Egypt tour packages that save you time and money.

What's the best time of year to visit Egypt?

The best time to visit is during the cooler months, from October to April. The weather is pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Do I need a visa for Egypt tours?

Yes, most travelers need a visa to enter Egypt. You can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport or apply for one in advance through the Egyptian consulate or embassy in your home country.

Can I drink tap water in Egypt?

It's not recommended to drink tap water in Egypt, as it may contain harmful bacteria. Stick to bottled water, which is widely available.

What's the voltage in Egypt, and will I need a power adapter?

The voltage in Egypt is 220-240V, with a frequency of 50Hz. Most outlets are two-pronged, so you may need a power adapter if your devices have three prongs. Make sure to check your devices' voltage and compatibility before plugging them in.

What are the benefits of using a tour company for my Egypt tours?

Using a tour company for your Egypt tours can provide many benefits, including expert guidance from a local tour guide, organized transportation and accommodation, and a structured itinerary that ensures you see all of the top attractions. Around Egypt Tours can often provide insight into Egyptian culture and history that you might not get on your own.

Is it possible to bring children on Egypt tours?

Yes, Egypt is a great destination for families with children. Many tour companies offer family-friendly tours that cater to children, with activities such as camel rides and visits to child-friendly museums. However, make sure to check with Around Egypt Tours to ensure that the itinerary is appropriate for your children's ages and interests.

Is there a special rate for groups booking with Around Egypt Tours?

Yes, we offers a discount for groups bookings. so you can collect a group of travellers and get a discount.

Which destinations combine well with Egypt Tours?

Around Egypt Tours offer packages that include visits to other countries in the region, such as Jordan and Morocco. Make sure to check with us before booking to understand what is included in the package and any visa requirements for other countries.

Can I bring pets on an Egypt tours?

No, pets are not allowed on Egypt tours, with the exception of service animals for individuals with disabilities. Make sure to check with the tour company beforehand to understand their policies on service animals.

How can I be sure that budget Egypt tours maintain quality and safety standards?

At Around Egypt Tours, we prioritize quality and safety across all tour categories. Our budget Egypt tours adhere to the same stringent safety measures and quality standards as our premium tours, ensuring a secure and memorable experience.

Are Budget Egypt Tours limited in terms of accommodations and dining options?

While the offerings might differ slightly, our budget Egypt tours still provide comfortable accommodations and delicious dining experiences. You'll find suitable lodging and delightful local cuisines that align with the cost-effective nature of the tour.

Do Budget Egypt Tours compromise on expert guidance and informative tours?

Not at all. At our sister company, Egypt for Travel, our budget tours are carefully designed to provide exceptional value without compromising on quality. Our experienced guides offer in-depth knowledge and fascinating insights into Egypt's rich history, culture, and iconic landmarks. You'll enjoy informative tours and engaging narratives, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience, all within a budget-friendly framework.

Are budget Egypt Tours less comprehensive in terms of sightseeing and experiences?

No, Budget Egypt Tours are designed to offer a fulfilling experience within a more economical range. While luxury options may include additional amenities, our budget tours ensure you still explore key attractions and enjoy an enriching journey.

Are Tipping Important During Egypt Tours?

Service charges are included by default in the bill when dining at a restaurant. However, these fees go to the restaurant and not to the  staff. So, it is wise and courteous to tip the staff an additional from 5% to 10% directly.

What is the official currency of Egypt? 

The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian pound, or "Geneh" in Arabic, and is commonly written as LE. One USD is Equal to 30 EGP. There are 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 LE bills. It is advisable to have some change for taxis or tipping. Money can be exchanged at exchange houses on the main streets and near tourist sites or at the airport.

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