Last year at this time, we embarked on an unforgettable adventure to Egypt, a land steeped in history and brimming with natural beauty. From the depths of the Red Sea to the towering pyramids of Giza, our journey was filled with awe-inspiring moments and unique cultural experiences.
Our journey began with a very early morning arrival in Hurghada, the bustling coastal city on the Red Sea. The warm desert air greeted us as we stepped off the plane, the scent of salt and sand lingering in the breeze. Despite the exhaustion from travel, the excitement of the days ahead kept our spirits high.
After a brief rest, we set out into the Eastern Desert, leaving behind the modernity of Hurghada for the timeless simplicity of a Bedouin village. The vast, rolling dunes seemed endless, their golden hues shifting under the sun. Welcomed with traditional tea and warm smiles, we gained insight into the Bedouins’ nomadic way of life (including a ride on the back of a camel), learning about their traditions, survival skills, and deep connection with the desert. The visit was humbling—a stark contrast to the fast-paced world we had left behind.
From Hurghada, the next morning boarded a bus for a scenic journey down to Port Ghalib, a vibrant marina town and our launching point for a liveaboard diving adventure. The Red Sea is a diver’s paradise, and over the following days, we explored some of its mesmerizing underwater landscapes. Coral reefs teeming with vibrant marine life and even the occasional shark made for some of the most breathtaking dives I had ever experienced. The serenity beneath the waves was unparalleled—a true highlight of our trip.
Leaving the sea behind, we returned to Hurghada and spent a day visiting the local fish market, a Coptic Christian Church complete with a youth choir getting ready for their Easter services, a visit to their largest Mosque, and a quick walk around a local yacht builder before heading to the airport where we flew to Cairo, a city where ancient and modern worlds collide.
After an event filled, crazy drive to the hotel for a restful night of sleep, we arose to the energy of the bustling metropolis that was intoxicating as we boarded a bus to Memphis, the first capital of ancient Egypt. Here, we marveled at colossal statues and remnants of a civilization that once ruled the Nile.
From Memphis, we continued to Saqqara, home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser—the earliest pyramid ever built. Standing before this architectural marvel, we could hardly believe its age, dating back over 4,600 years. The site’s tombs and intricate hieroglyphics offered a fascinating glimpse into ancient funerary traditions.
No trip to Egypt would be complete without witnessing the Great Pyramids of Giza. Standing before these towering structures, we felt the weight of history pressing upon us. The precision and scale of these monuments left us in awe, and the enigmatic Sphinx only deepened the mystery of this ancient civilization. It was a surreal moment—one that made all the long flights and bus rides worthwhile.
One of the highlights of our time in Cairo was the morning spent at the Egyptian Museum, home to an astonishing collection of artifacts from Egypt’s long and storied past. We wandered through halls filled with intricately carved statues, ancient papyrus scrolls, and well-preserved mummies. The true centerpiece of the museum was the collection of treasures from the tomb of King Tutankhamun. Gazing upon the young pharaoh’s golden mask, inlaid with lapis lazuli and turquoise, was a surreal experience—one that brought the grandeur and mystique of ancient Egypt to life before our eyes.
Before our journey home, we immersed ourselves in the lively atmosphere of an outdoor marketplace in Cairo. The scent of spices filled the air as vendors called out, selling everything from colorful textiles to handcrafted jewelry. We haggled for souvenirs, sipped on sweet hibiscus tea, and absorbed the vibrant chaos of Egyptian street life. It was the perfect way to experience the city’s pulse before departing.
As we boarded our flight home the next morning, we reflected on the incredible journey we had just undertaken. Egypt had offered us a perfect blend of adventure, history, and cultural immersion. From the silent depths of the Red Sea to the towering pyramids, this trip had been nothing short of magical—a true exploration of time and nature’s wonders.
And a big shout out to Katherine and John from YSS Dive for putting this trip together and navigating all challenges that arose during the planning and execution of our fabulous journey. Your efforts were not unnoticed and are sincerely appreciated.
Blessings,
Chris
