Quad biking in the desert in Egypt

Egypt is not just about the Pyramids, the Sphinx or the numerous temples. There is a lot on offer for the adrenalin junkies and for those who love adventure. You can go hot air ballooning or give diving and snorkelling a go. Or you choose to go on a desert jeep safari or  enjoy quad biking in the desert.

On our trip to Egypt  we went diving, snorkelling, on the jeep safari and did quad biking as well. Quad biking is normally arranged as a part of the day excursion if you are on a package tour. There are lots of day excursion operators in Egypt who can arrange quad biking trip for you if its not included in your package. These trips are usually done early morning or late afternoon so that you can catch either the sunrise or the sunset.

The tour operator will transfer you to the Quad biking centre which is usually somewhere in the middle of the desert. We were a group of around 20 people. When we got there, we were briefed on how to handle the bike. We were provided helmets and our faces were covered with a scarf in such a way that only the eyes were visible. Everyone of course had their sunglasses on. This is a must because so much sand and dust flies around when you go quad biking. This is the best way to protect your eyes and face.

Everyone gets a quad bike of their own. If you are not sure if you can handle the bike, you can pillion ride with a friend or one of the quad bike handlers will ride with you and assist in handling the bike. Once everyone was ready, the quad biking leader led us all out into the desert. We set off into the desert. It was amazing to see such vast expanses of sand. Our group was following the leader in a single line and it looked like a serpent whizzing through the sand. We had a few stops to relax, take some photographs and to have some refreshments.

The quad bike safaris can range from half an hour to an entire day depending on what you choose. Even if you are a novice at driving, you will enjoy this experience.  You will love going up and down the dunes and valleys. You will also be given plenty of time to stop and take memorable pictures. Do give it a try when you are in Egypt. Just make sure that  you have applied enough sunscreen and are covered well. Long sleeves and trousers with a good scarf and sunglasses and you are ready to go.
 

The Pyramids of Giza (The Giza Necropolis )

The Pyramids of Giza require no introduction. They are one of the most well known and recognizable Wonders of the World. Majority of tourists visiting Egypt come here to see the magnificent Pyramids.

The Giza Necropolis includes 3 pyramids and the Great Sphinx. The 3 pyramids are:
- The Great Pyramid of Giza (also known as the Pyramid of Khufu)
- The Pyramid of Khafre
- The Pyramid of Menkaure

The Pyramid of Khufu is the largest of the 3 and the oldest as well. Standing tall at 481 feet, this pyramid was the tallest man-made structure for a good 3800 years. The Pyramid of Khufu was constructed as a tomb for Pharaoh Khufu by his Vazir Hemon. If you look at the Pyramid you will marvel as to how the huge limestone blocks would have been transported in those days from the quarries onto the site of construction.

The best time to visit the Pyramids is between October and April. But whenever you decide to go, do carry enough water, a good hat and sunscreen. The Khufu Pyramid is open to visitors at certain times and costs around 60 Egyptian pounds. The number of tickets is limited so you need to go early and take them.

There is a lot of hassling that goes on in the Necropolis area. Vendors trying to seel jewellery, pottery, souvenirs, maps, scarves, dresses etc. Then there are the horse and camel rides. You could go for the rides if you are keen, but fix on the price before you climb the animal. We did not opt for these as it was easier and more comfortable walking around and taking in the sights peacefully alone.
If you are fit, you can walk around the whole Necropolis on your own without getting too tired. A guide with you will be an advantage, because they can fill you in on the history and provide a better experience.

Overall, the Pyramids are spectacular. Its really an amazing feeling to see them up close in person. It goes without saying that they are a must visit if you are travelling to Egypt.

 

Belly dancing in Egypt

A visit to Egypt is incomplete without a belly dance show, isn't it? There are number of places where you can watch belly dancing - nightclubs, while on a Nile cruise or in a Bedouin village.

We had a dancer perform on our Nile Cruise. And we got a chance to view the dance once again when we went for the Desert safari and spent the evening at a Bedouin village. There was also a performance by the Tannoura dancer. Here are some videos and a few pcitures.