Things To Do
in Al Qays
Al Qays is a small town located in Upper Egypt along the Nile River. It is known for its rich history dating back to ancient Egyptian times. The town is home to several archaeological sites, including the Temple of Kom Ombo and the Temple of Edfu.
Al Qays is a popular destination for tourists looking to explore Egypt's ancient past and experience the local culture.
- "Ahlan wa sahlan" - Welcome
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "La shukran" - No, thank you
- "Min fadlak" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local market. Enjoy fresh fruit and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Al Qays.
Explore the historical sites nearby, including ancient ruins and museums. Take a guided tour to learn more about the region's rich history.
Dine at a traditional Egyptian restaurant. Experience local flavors under the starlit sky.
Set off for a thrilling desert safari. Experience the breathtaking dunes and take plenty of photos.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the desert, surrounded by stunning landscapes. Participate in activities like camel riding or dune bashing.
Return to Al Qays and relax at your accommodation. Consider an evening stroll to enjoy the desert sunset.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage with ancient sites, including temples and ruins.
- Beautiful landscapes and proximity to the Mediterranean Sea.
- Friendly local population with a welcoming culture.
- Opportunities for agricultural activities due to fertile lands.
- Limited access to modern infrastructure and amenities.
- High temperatures during summer can be uncomfortable.
- Economic challenges, including unemployment rates.
- Potential for political instability affecting local governance.
Best Activities in Al Qays
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful Wadi El-Rayan, which offers hiking trails through stunning desert landscapes and opportunities to see natural waterfalls and lakes.
Enjoy the exhilarating experience of sandboarding on the vast sand dunes surrounding Al Qays, offering thrilling rides and panoramic views of the desert.
Experience the awe-inspiring night skies by going stargazing in the quiet desert surroundings of Al Qays, providing clear views of the stars and constellations.
Tours
Uncover the best of Al Qays with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Al Qays
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning panoramic view of the city of Al Qays and surrounding landscapes, perfect for photos.
Great spot to capture the beauty of the Nile River and the city skyline, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Historic fortress with elevated vantage points providing picturesque views of the town and nearby countryside.
Food in Al Qays
Al Qays Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular Egyptian dish made with rice, macaroni, lentils, and chickpeas, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions.
Must-Try!
A staple dish made from slow-cooked fava beans, seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice, often served with hard-boiled eggs and pita bread.
Zucchini, eggplant, or grape leaves stuffed with a savory mixture of rice, herbs, and spices, then simmered in a tangy tomato sauce.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Al Qays better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the bustling Al Qays Souq for an array of street food options such as falafel, shawarma, grilled kebabs, and freshly squeezed fruit juices. Don't miss the aromatic spices and traditional sweets at the market stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is customary to greet people with a handshake and a warm smile. Using polite phrases such as 'please' and 'thank you' is important in interactions.
In Al Qays, showing respect for elders is highly valued. It is important to address them using formal titles and to listen attentively when they speak.
When visiting public places or religious sites, it's important to dress modestly, particularly for women, to show respect for local customs and traditions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Al Qays with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Al Qays
Ensure a smooth experience
In Al Qays, Egypt, it is customary to tip service workers such as waitstaff, hotel staff, and tour guides. The typical tipping amount is around 10-15% of the total bill or a small amount of Egyptian pounds for smaller services.
Payment in Al Qays, Egypt is mainly done in Egyptian pounds (EGP). Major credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but it's always wise to carry cash, especially in smaller shops or local markets. ATMs are also available in urban areas for cash withdrawal.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Al Qays.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Al Qays, Egypt is in spring (March to May) when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. Expect blooming flowers and a colorful landscape as well as popular festivals and events.
Autumn (September to November) is also another good time to visit Al Qays, with pleasant temperatures and lesser crowds. Expect clear skies and pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor adventures.
Al Qays at Night
Hiking in Al Qays
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located in the Saint Catherine area, Mount Sinai is a historic and popular hiking destination. The hike offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is also a significant religious site.
While primarily known for its historical and religious significance, the area around Saint Catherine's Monastery has several hiking trails that showcase the beauty of the Sinai mountains.
A natural protectorate just outside of Cairo, Wadi Degla offers scenic trails with unique geological formations and a peaceful desert landscape, ideal for hiking and exploration.
Located near Nuweiba, the Colored Canyon features stunning rock formations and narrow passages, making for an adventurous hiking experience with colorful scenery.
Though slightly further away, Wadi Rum is known for its stunning desert landscape, with options for both hiking and rock climbing amid its unique rock formations and vast expanses.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Al Qays through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Al Qays by plane.
The largest international airport in Egypt, located in Cairo, approximately 215 km from Al Qays.
An international airport located in ALEXANDRIA, approximately 160 km from Al Qays.
A major international airport serving the Red Sea resort city of Hurghada, located about 450 km from Al Qays.
An international airport serving the resort town of Sharm El Sheikh, approximately 480 km from Al Qays.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly the largest ethnic group in Al Qays, comprising the majority of the population.
Egypt's indigenous Christian population, constituting a significant minority in the region.
A distinct ethnic group known for their rich culture and history, residing primarily in southern Egypt.
Traditionally nomadic Arab tribes known for their unique customs and lifestyle, found in desert areas.
Includes various smaller ethnic and religious groups that contribute to the cultural diversity of Al Qays.
The Soul of Al Qays
Discover the essence of Al Qays through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Al Qays, with many local teams and a passionate fan base supporting various leagues and tournaments.
Handball is widely played in schools and local clubs, with growing interest in competitive leagues.
Volleyball is a popular sport among both men and women, often played in beaches and community centers.
Athletic events, including running and jumping, are common in Al Qays, with many local competitions for youth and adults.
Basketball has been gaining popularity, with local courts and youth teams participating in various regional tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Al Qays.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-based dishes are prominent, many restaurants and cafes in Al Qays offer delicious vegetarian options such as stuffed grape leaves, falafel, hummus, and grilled vegetables. Additionally, some establishments can accommodate vegan requests with advance notice.
Due to the reliance on grains like wheat in Egyptian cuisine, gluten-free options may be limited. However, some venues offer rice-based dishes and salads that are naturally gluten-free, and it's advisable to communicate dietary restrictions clearly to ensure a safe dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Al Qays with these cultural adventures.
