Little-known ways to get to know Egypt

By, Judit Villar

• July 11, 2024
• 73
• Blog

When we think of Egypt, the majestic pyramids of Giza and the mysterious Valley of the Kings immediately spring to mind. However, this fascinating country offers a variety of unique experiences, especially if you dare to explore its landscapes from a hot air balloon. Here are some little-known ways to experience Egypt from above.

1. Fly over the temples of Luxor at sunrise.
   What makes it special?
   Most balloon flights in Egypt focus on Luxor, but what many don’t realise is that the real magic happens at sunrise. Rising early to see the first rays of the sun illuminating the ancient temples of Karnak and Luxor is an experience beyond the ordinary. The tranquillity of the morning, combined with the spectacular views, makes every second worth it.
   Tip:
   Book a private or small group flight for a more intimate and personalised experience.
2. Explore the Western Desert
   What makes it special?
   Beyond the usual tourist sites, Egypt’s Western Desert offers surreal and almost otherworldly landscapes. Ballooning over the vast sand dunes, hidden oases and unique rock formations of the White Desert will give you a completely different perspective of the country.
3. Look for tour operators that offer flights combined with desert safaris for a complete adventure.
4. Fly over the Red Sea
   What makes it special?
   The Red Sea is known for its crystal clear waters and vibrant marine life. From a hot air balloon, you can enjoy panoramic views of the coastline, coral reefs and deserted islands. It’s a spectacular way to combine an aerial experience with water activities such as scuba diving and snorkelling.
   Tip:
   Plan your flight in the Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh region, where you’ll find the best balloon flight operators over the Red Sea.
5. Themed flight over the Valley of the Nobles
   What makes it special?
   While the Valley of the Kings gets all the attention, the Valley of the Nobles is equally fascinating. Many operators offer flights that focus on this area, allowing you to see the tombs and temples of Ancient Egyptian high officials from a unique perspective.
   Tip:
   Be sure to bring a camera with a good zoom lens to capture the intricate details of the tombs from the air.
6. Aerial view of Abu Simbel
   What makes it special?
   Abu Simbel, with its impressive rock-cut temples, is an iconic Egyptian destination. Ballooning over the site allows you to appreciate the monumental scale of the temples and their desert setting. It’s a less common but absolutely breathtaking way to see these ancient treasures.
   Tip:
   Combine the balloon flight with a guided walking tour for an in-depth look at the history and architecture of the temples.
7. Balloon ride over the Nile Farmlands
   What makes it special?
   Beyond the ancient ruins and deserts, the Nile Valley is the lifeblood of Egypt. Ballooning over the lush farmlands shows you a more everyday, rural side of the country. You can watch farmers at work and local communities from a privileged perspective.
   Tip:
   This type of flight is ideal in the Aswan region, where the agricultural landscape blends with ancient history.
8. Night flight with starry sky
   What makes it special?
   Although most balloon flights take place at dawn, some operators offer night-time experiences. Imagine floating gently in the air as you gaze up at a starry sky and the twinkling lights of distant villages. It’s a mystical and tranquil experience that will connect you with nocturnal Egypt in a unique way.
   Tip:
   Wear warm clothes, as nights in the desert can be chilly.
9. Balloon Photo Tours
   What makes it special?
   For photography enthusiasts, some operators offer dedicated flights to capture the best aerial shots of Egypt. With the help of a professional photographer, you can learn specific techniques for aerial photography and get spectacular images of your views from the balloon.
10. Tip:
11. Find out the best flight times for the perfect lighting and bring the right equipment.

Get ready to take off!
Exploring Egypt by hot air balloon is an experience that goes beyond the conventional and offers a new perspective of this ancient and beautiful country. Whether flying over temples, deserts or farmland, each flight promises a unique and unforgettable adventure. So, if you’re looking for a little-known but extraordinary way to experience Egypt, don’t hesitate to book your place in a hot air balloon and get ready to take off for adventure.

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