The most instagrammable places in egypt
As incredible as it may seem, Egypt has gone through a lot in the last decade. Now that things have calmed down, more people are visiting the country. This country is a photographer’s paradise due to its stunning landscapes and rich historical heritage. It’s an Instagrammer’s dream because of the picturesque temples and breathtaking coastlines. It’s no wonder that every tourist who visits Egypt takes home some stunning pictures.
1. The Great Pyramids of Giza
Unsurprisingly, the Great Pyramids of Giza are first on the list. The Great Pyramid of Giza is the tallest of Egypt’s pyramids and one of the tallest buildings in the world. It held the record for the tallest structure on Earth until 1311, which adds to its allure.
The Great Pyramid of Giza is also known as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It is the oldest and only remaining wonder of those original Seven Wonders and has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To get the best photos and avoid the crowds, visit the pyramids early in the morning.
Location: Al Haram, Nazlet El-Samman, Al Giza Desert, Giza Governorate 3512201, Egypt
Opening time: Daily 8 AM- 5 PM
Travel Tips: Beware of scammers here, locals will try and lure you away using whistles, acting like they are helping, be sure to do more research on common scams here.
2. Khan El Khalili Market
Location: 5 Sekat Al Badstan, El-Gamaleya
Opening time: Most shops and stalls open from around 9 am to well after sundown (except Friday morning and Sunday), although plenty of the souvenir vendors are open as long as there are customers, even on Sunday
3. The White Desert
The White Desert is a part of the larger Farafra depression in the Sahara. It includes the oasis towns of Farafra, Ain El Maqfi, and Ain El Wadi. The desert is famous for its striking white dunes and unique granite formations, and it’s located near the Great Sand Sea. The desert’s name comes from the white chalk and limestone that cover parts of it. The contrast between the white rock formations and the golden sands creates a truly unique and unforgettable landscape.
The exact location: Al Farafra Desert, New Valley Governorate 1010001, Egypt
Opening Time: Mon-Sat 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
4. Abu Simbel
Ramesses II, one of Egypt’s greatest pharaohs, built the impressive temple of abu simbel. This massive temple, carved into the rock, marks the southern boundary between Nubia and ancient Egypt. It is often considered the largest and most magnificent temple from Ramesses II’s reign and one of Egypt’s most stunning structures. You can also take as many photos as you like outside the temples.
The exact location is Abu Simbel, Aswan 1211501, Egypt.
Opening Time: Daily 5 a.m.–6 p.m.
5. Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Kings is one of Egypt’s most breathtaking attractions. Situated on the western bank of the Nile River, near Luxor, it features a remarkable number of finely carved tombs of ancient Egyptian pharaohs. The valley was used as a burial site for royals from the 18th, 19th, and 20th dynasties of Egypt’s New Kingdom, including famous pharaohs like Tutankhamun, Seti I, and Ramses II, as well as queens and high priests from 1539-1075 B.C. For over 500 years, from the 16th to the 11th century BC, the Valley of the Kings served as a royal burial ground for pharaohs, their families, and their treasures.
In 1979, the Valley of the Kings was added to the list of World Heritage Sites, along with the rest of the Theban Necropolis.
A visit to the Valley of the Kings is a must for anyone traveling to Egypt. It is the final resting place of many ancient Egyptian pharaohs, with some tombs still waiting to be discovered. The Valley of the Kings is renowned for its impressive royal tombs.
Location: Luxor, Luxor Governorate 1340420, Egypt
Opening Time: 6 am to 4 pm in the winter months (November – January) and 5 pm in the summer months (May-August).
6. Karnak Temple
One of Egypt’s most amazing sites is the Temple of Karnak. It was believed to be the place where everything was first created and a meeting point between the Egyptian people and the god Amun-Ra. This temple is very important in Egyptian culture because it was a place of worship and gives us a look into ancient Egyptian religion.
When visiting Luxor, seeing the Karnak Temple is a must. The temple is huge and has many great spots for photos. One of the best places for a perfect picture is right after the front door, where you’ll see huge pillars. This spot is perfect for Instagram. Most tour groups from Hurghada arrive around 8:30 or 9 in the morning, so getting there earlier will help you take the best photos without other visitors in the background. At its height, the Karnak Temple was the largest and most important religious complex in ancient Egypt.
The exact location: Karnak, Luxor, Luxor Governorate, Egypt
Opening Time: Summer from 6 am to 6.30 pm and winter from 6 am to 5.30 pm.
7. AL – AZHAR MOSQUE
Location: El-Darb El-Ahmar, Cairo Governorate 4293024, Egyp.t
Opening Time: Daily 8 am to 4 pm
8. Citadel of Saladin
Location is: 27H6+G27, Private Entrance Bel Kalaa, Al Abageyah, El Khalifa, Cairo Governorate 4252360, Egypt.
Opening Time: Daily, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Travel Tips: Wearing bright colors, will help contrast many of the locations in Egypt, making your photos even better!
9. The Egyptian Museum
Location: Giza, Greater Cairo
Opening Time: 9 am -5 pm. Late-night openings until 9 pm on Thursdays and Sundays
10. Temple of Queen Hatshepsut
The Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut is a great example of ancient Egyptian architecture due to its precise alignment with the stars. Although much of the temple has been restored, visitors can still see the tomb. This temple is especially significant because it was built by a woman. Queen Hatshepsut was a powerful and independent female pharaoh with the longest reign, often referred to as “the lady who was king” because of the many disguises she used.
The temple is beautifully designed with a symmetrical layout and is three stories high, each level featuring impressive columns. It used to have a garden on the ground floor with exotic trees that Hatshepsut collected during her travels. Despite its beauty, the temple can be very crowded with tourists and very hot during the day.
Location: Al Qarna Desert, Luxor Governorate, 1340420, Egypt
Opening Time: Daily 6 am – 5 pm
Instagrammable places in Egypt, categorized by region:
First lets look at the most Aesthetic places by region, before going into our top 10!
Cairo and Giza:
- Pyramids of Giza: Iconic and world-famous, the Pyramids of Giza, including the Sphinx, provide stunning backdrops for photos.
- Khan El Khalili Bazaar: The vibrant and historic market offers picturesque alleyways, colorful shops, and traditional Egyptian architecture.
- Al-Azhar Park: A beautifully landscaped park with views of historic Cairo and the Citadel, providing a tranquil setting for photos.
Luxor and Aswan:
- Luxor Temple: Illuminated at night, Luxor Temple is a captivating site with ancient Egyptian architecture.
- Valley of the Kings: The tombs of pharaohs in the Valley of the Kings offer a mystical and historic atmosphere for photographs.
- Philae Temple: Located on an island in the Nile, Philae Temple provides a scenic and ancient backdrop for photos.
Alexandria:
- Qaitbay Citadel: This fortress on the Mediterranean Sea offers breathtaking views and a picturesque setting.
- Montaza Palace: With its beautiful gardens and sea views, Montaza Palace is a lovely spot for photography.
- Alexandria Corniche: The waterfront promenade along the Mediterranean is perfect for capturing the city’s charm.
Sinai Peninsula:
- Mount Sinai: A sunrise or sunset hike provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and desert.
- Blue Hole: In Dahab, the Blue Hole’s clear blue waters make it a popular spot for underwater photography.
Red Sea:
- Ras Mohamed National Park: A marine reserve with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life for underwater photography.
- Hurghada Marina: The marina offers a mix of yachts, shops, and restaurants with a view of the Red Sea.
Western Desert:
- White Desert: Known for its surreal landscapes and unique limestone formations, the White Desert is a photographer’s dream.
- Siwa Oasis: An isolated oasis with date palms, mud-brick buildings, and the ancient Temple of the Oracle.
Nile Delta:
- Rosetta: Explore the historic town and its Ottoman-era architecture along the Nile Delta.
Final Thoughts
Egypt is full of stunning and Instagrammable places that showcase its rich history and breathtaking beauty. From the iconic Great Pyramids of Giza and the ancient temples to the vibrant streets and serene landscapes, each spot offers a unique backdrop for memorable photos. Whether you’re exploring ancient wonders or modern marvels, these instagrammable places in egypt provide the perfect opportunities to capture and share your adventures. Embrace the magic of Egypt and let its unforgettable scenery enhance your social media feed.
Where to Stay in Egypt
Now that you know where all the tourists hang out in Egypt for their Instagram photos, it’s time to whip out your camera. Remember to show proper courtesy to the places you photograph at all times. Always act responsibly; it’s not worth risking your safety to wander off the path just to ta ake photo. Let me know if you think I missed out on some essential spots. And if you visit the places mentioned above, share your pictures here!
FAQS
Egypt is home to several Instagrammable places that are perfect for capturing stunning photographs. Some popular options include the Great Pyramids of Giza, the iconic Sphinx, the mesmerizing temples of Luxor and Karnak, the beautiful White Desert, the historic city of Alexandria, and the colorful streets of Aswan.
While Egypt has numerous picturesque spots, some locations offer exceptional photo opportunities. The top spots include the Pyramids of Giza, where you can capture the awe-inspiring ancient structures in all their glory. The temple complex of Abu Simbel, with its colossal statues, is another great choice. The vibrant bazaars and narrow streets of Cairo’s Khan El Khalili district also provide unique and colorful photo opportunities.
Absolutely! Alongside the well-known landmarks, Egypt is home to some hidden gems that are worth photographing. The Siwa Oasis, located in the western desert, offers picturesque landscapes, natural springs, and ancient ruins. The stunning coastal town of Marsa Matruh, with crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches, is another hidden gem for capturing beautiful beachside shots.
Popular tourist sites in Egypt can get crowded, especially during peak seasons. However, there are a few strategies to capture the best pictures without crowds. Arriving early in the morning or visiting during off-peak hours can help you avoid the crowds. Additionally, exploring lesser-known angles or viewpoints can allow you to capture unique shots while avoiding the main crowds.
While Egypt welcomes photography enthusiasts, there are some restrictions to be aware of. Inside temples and museums, photography may be restricted or require an additional permit. It’s essential to respect these rules and ask for permission when necessary. Additionally, photographing military facilities or personnel is strictly prohibited. Always be mindful and respect the local regulations to ensure a pleasant photography experience.
To capture the essence of Egypt in your photos, focus on capturing the unique cultural elements and rich history. Seek out shots that showcase the stunning architecture, vibrant colors, and intricate details. Including local people or traditional activities can also add authenticity to your images. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to create visually interesting compositions. Lastly, don’t forget to use appropriate hashtags and geotags to help your photos reach a wider audience on Instagram.
The best time so post is 7pm on Saturdays, while travelling in egypt.
