Do not feel bad if you didn’t travel this Eid or the one before, or if you haven’t really got the chance to get the best out of it, because this October there are two long weekends; as Sunday the 2nd, and Thursday the 6th are public holidays, so it’s either you will have two long weekends, or you take 3, 4, 5th off, and have a good long 9 days vacation.

If you are an Egyptian Passport holder you still have the chance to book, and travel to one of those countries that do not require an entry visa from Egyptians one of those countries that do not require an entry visa from Egyptians, and even better if you aim for some local tourism to give it a boost.

My recommendations are;

SIWA

Temple of the Oracle by Passainte Assem

Often referred to as the forgotten oasis given how travelers tend to forget it due to its remote location. The drive would take something around 9 to 10 hours, but what you are going to see is well worth the effort.

Cleopatra’s Bath (a.k.a. Pool) by Passainte Assem

WHAT TO DO

• Gabal Al-Mawta not only to explore Greco-Roman tombs but to enjoy a magical view over the oasis
• Witness a sunset/sunrise atop Shali Fortress
• Take as many dips as you can at their widespread natural water springs
• Temple Of The Oracle; a witness of what remains from an impressive ancient civilization
• Pay a visit or stay at Talist, Taziry, and Adrere Amellal Ecolodges -Talist is so pretty and affordable while Taziry & Adrere Amellal are luxurious & do not suit every budget-, Adrere Amelal is the ecolodge you heard about that has no electricity, phones are banned, and where celebrities like Prince Charles have stayed before
•  Cycle your way through the oasis, and make cycling your main mean of transportation

Sand-boarding in Siwa be like by Passainte Assem

DAHAB

The Magical Blue Lagoon by Hesham Al-Qersh

From where do I start?!! Relaxing by the beach? Hiking scenic trails? Swimming in turquoise-ly colored lagoons?

The hike from the Blue Hole to Ras Abu Gallum by Passainte Assem

WHAT TO DO

• Take a dip at the Blue Lagoon
• Hike from the Blue Hole to Ras Abou Galoum
• Snorkel or dive at the Blue Hole and in Ras Abou Galoum too
• Star-gaze while lying on your back, the prettiest star-gazing experience I’ve ever had
• This is a water sports hub, so practice some kite-surfing, windsurfing, and many more

Kitesurfing in Dahab by Sergey Yeliseev

ASWAN

Elephantine Island by David Stanley

Home to Egypt’s friendliest population, and cutest as well. Have you ever dreamed of taking a dip in the Nile, Aswan is absolutely where your dream will come true!

 A colorful Nubian House by Omnia Mamdouh

WHAT TO DO

• Sail on board a felucca
• Marvel at Gharb Seheil’s beautifully painted houses
• Philae Temple & Sofitel Legend Old Cataract are a must
• Explore Heissa & Elephantine Islands
• Go for bird-watching & hiking
• Take a 2 hours bus to Abu Simbel, it’s far but totally worth it!

Nile Feluccas in the foreground with Philae Temple in the background by Dennis Jarvis

FAYOUM

The Magic Lake by Passainte Assem

In a little under 2 hours say goodbye to chaotic Cairo to be at one of Egypt’s magical oases. It’s not only about the scenery but about the amount of activities that you could enjoy.

Sand-boarding by Mathew

WHAT TO DO

• Visit the Pottery village of Tunis, and El-Nazla as well
• Sand-board at Qoussour Al-Arab
• A small & easy hike to the top of Gabal Al-Modawara which overlooks the Magic Lake -camping there is an option, however do not expect to find any toilet facilities
• Explore Wadi Al-Hitan “Valley of the Whales” on foot, and pay a visit to the newly opened Fossil & Climate Change Museum -solar cells have been installed to generate electricity in the entire valley
• Kayak, take a boat, or fish at Lake Qaroun
• Visit the Petrified Forest & Wadi Al-Rayan

Valley of the Whales by Passainte Assem

So where are you planning to go? Can you share with us a local place or recommendation that has a special place in your heart?!! Let us know in the comments below..

About the Author

Passainte Assem

A former lawyer, travel junkie and adventurer from head to toe. Whether broke or out of vacation time, always on the lookout for the next destination. Keen to share her travel stories, planning tips and photographs to give you a real sense of place.