Egypt is also home to the fabled Nile River, the longest river in Africa and since the days of ancient Egypt a major means of travel and transportation as well as food and resources. Cairo, the nation’s capital and largest city, is a megalopolis that houses millions of people who live in close proximity to the Giza Pyramid Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most-visited and significant archaeological sites on Earth. Down the Nile in “Upper Egypt,” the historic city of Luxor is a treasure trove of ancient temples, including namesake Luxor, Karnak, and the Temple of Hatshepsut. Even further down river, Aswan is home to the Aswan High Dam, which is built across the Nile and is one of the world’s largest embankment dams.

Nile River Cruises

The best time to visit Egypt is between October and April when temperatures are cooler but still comfortable enough to visit the top attractions, such as the Giza Pyramids and Luxor, and cruise down the Nile. Be aware that during the summer months in Egypt the average daytime temperature is over 100 degrees and can top 120 degrees.