This isn't necessarily hidden, but do not miss the Philae Temple in Aswan. It's spectacular. Also - we took an overnight trip on a felucca (sailboat) called the Glory Of Nubia and it was a delight. You overnight at a very cool Nubian village and they serve meals on the boat. It was private - only five of us. Have fun!

Posted Dec 01, 2010

Do the Abul Simbel trip.  It is a bit of a trek (like 300 km from Aswan -a whole day affair) but 100% totally worth it.  We also did a 4 day boat trip on the Nile that was great.  Luxor at night was also beautiful.  King Tut's tomb was not as cool as you would think.  Eat lots of swarmas and stop in a shisha bar for sure!

Posted Dec 03, 2010

In Alexandria I would suggest that you take a underground cript tour of the ancient Christian tombs that are underground near the heart of the city.  If you are going to Alexandria from Cairo, I would be sure to stop and the Abu Mina monestary. This particular monestary has had a very important role in the Coptic Christian Church.

In Cairo, be sure to take a subway ride.  They are inexpensive and a good experiance.  Remember, only women ride in the first one or two cars of each subway train.

Padre David Larsen, El Sargento, BCS, Mexico

Posted Dec 07, 2010

Cairo: Drive through the City of the Dead. Visit the Ar Rifai mosque. Go to the Alley of the Tentmakers. Go to the pyramid field at Dashur.

Alex: The Biblioteca and The Fish Market Restaurant. Go to the corniche near Fort Quatby and touch the Mediterranean.

Aswan: The Nubian Market at Night. Take a felucca to Elephantine Island. Go to the Cataract hotel where Agatha Christie wrote "Death on the Nile."

Luxor: A morning balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings, Radwan the goldsmiths (near Isis hotel), have a drink at The Old Winter Palace hotel. Take a few hours one night and sit at an ahwa in the market, have shisha and helba (fenugreek tea).

Posted Dec 14, 2010

Definitely go to Abu Simbel. It's worth the extra money. You have to fly there in a sketchy airplane, but once you're there you get to see the most intact temples and they are simply amazing. Also, I would go to Valley of the Kings if you are staying longer. You can take a hot air balloon ride over the valley at sunrise.

Posted Dec 15, 2010

If they offer a side trip to the Red Sea, jump on it: Dahab is amazing. Also, in Aswan, check out the main hotel where Agatha Christie wrote her novel, Death on the Nile.

Posted Dec 15, 2010

From Aswan, the Abu Simbel trip is not to be missed (and well worth the trek.)  In Cairo, take some time to go to Al Azhar park, not far from the Citadel.  It is the lungs of Cairo and a much appreciated respite from the craziness of the rest of the city!

Posted Dec 17, 2010

I think I'll end up reiterating what others have said but just quickly:

Aswan:  Philae was wonderful, don't miss it.  Did a meal with a local Nubian family, which was a treat, but a little tourisity.  Abu Simbel is not to be missed - we flew there and back and saved much time - our plane was a 737 which was completely fine.

Alexandria:  Loved the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, and walking along the waterfront.

Cairo:  I might add the Hanging Church, a Coptic Church.

Have a great time.

Phil

Posted Dec 19, 2010

In Aswan- if you look across the Nile you can see tombs built into the hill. Rent a felucca over and explore. They are the tombs of the governors and families from ancient times. Its a great trek around the ruins and they still have the bones in tact on site!

Posted Dec 22, 2010