by J A Wright

Created on: September 13, 2009   Last Updated: September 14, 2009

When visiting the primary site of interest the usual obvious sites are the Sphinx and the pyramids. It's wise to rise early to visit the Giza Plateau and to see the three pyramids and Sphinx, the early morning heat is far more mild and the stench of Cairo less overwhelming after a cool night.

Even arriving at seven am, it could already be too hot and still not in time to be one of the 100 people who are allowed into the Great Pyramid each day. It is limited to that to prevent the deterioration due to sweat, breath exhalation and general wear and tear. It has been suggested that all the historical venues will be closed to the public soon to preserve them. Special video work is being undertaken with NASA equipment in order to create a special online experience and to recreate a display of the originals. Make the most of time at the Giza Plateau if you can as the next generation may not be able to enjoy the same experiences.

The Sphinx is beautiful, despite the defacing by Napoleon and his men. If you line it up you can get some amazing pictures of the Sphinx with the Great Pyramid in a direct line behind it - gorgeous!

Aside the remarkable antiquities at the Giza Plateau it is worthy of note that although the pyramids are a feat of incredible engineering the plateau itself is amazing and varies in topography by only millimetres.

Cairo is a phenomenal city with enormous and well developed central areas but flanked by poverty stricken slums with little or no hygiene facilities.

Cairo Museum which is where the majority of the greatest finds are kept, they are truly amazing to view. The Mummy Room is a favourite, a large room filled with 9 glass caskets, each temperature controlled to preserve the nine royal mummies on display there. The elements of Tutankamun's tomb which are not on show in the tomb are here and displayed with amazing details of exactly how it was found. Dr Zahi Hawass is frequently there, conducting work on Egypt's greatest historical artefacts.

There are many places to visit around Luxor or on brief trips using the city as a base.First passing through the Colossi of Memnon, an amazing feat of engineering and a great photo opportunity, then the Theban Mountains (The Valley Of The Kings) are the home of the historical tombs of the kings including the elusive tomb of Tutankhamun.

Through the other side of the mountain is Deir El Bahari, Hatchepsuts temple and her way of being as close to a king as she could be, as well as hiding her own

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>