Things To Do
in Qifţ
Qift, historically known as Coptos, sits along the Nile in Upper Egypt as a gateway to ancient desert routes. Today it is a quiet town where time-worn ruins meet traditional markets and welcoming locals. The landscape blends fertile riverbanks with arid deserts and open skies, inviting exploration on foot or by bicycle.
Visitors can trace a connection to ancient trade routes while enjoying simple Egyptian rhythms of daily life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the majestic Karnak Temple complex, one of the largest religious buildings in the world. As the sun rises, walk through the grand entrance flanked by colossal statues, taking in the intricate hieroglyphics that adorn the walls. Spend time marveling at the Great Hypostyle Hall, where the towering columns reach toward the sky.
After a delicious lunch at a nearby local eatery, head to the Luxor Museum to explore artifacts that highlight the rich history of the region. The museum's well-curated exhibits provide context to the temples you've just visited and showcase the history of the ancient Egyptians. Spend your afternoon wandering through the museum’s peaceful gardens, absorbing the tranquility before you head back to Qifţ.
As the sun begins to set, enjoy a traditional Egyptian dinner at a local restaurant in Qifţ, savoring dishes like koshari and falafel. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Nile Corniche, soaking in the beauty of the river at dusk. End your day with a captivating local music performance, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Egypt.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, preparing you for a day on the water. Then, head to the Nile River where you will board a traditional felucca boat, enjoying the gentle breeze and the stunning views of the riverbanks. The morning light reflects off the water, creating a picturesque backdrop as you sail leisurely down the river.
During the afternoon, stop at one of the lush islands on the Nile for a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Explore the local flora and fauna, perhaps even taking a dip in the refreshing waters of the river. After your break, continue your felucca ride, allowing the captain to share stories of the river’s significance to Egyptian culture.
As evening approaches, return to the mainland and head to a riverside café to enjoy tea or coffee while watching the sunset over the Nile. The sky transforms into a canvas of colors, providing a perfect backdrop for reflection on your day. End the night with a traditional dance show that showcases local talent and cultural heritage.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.25-0.60 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (within town) | $2-5 |
| 🛏️One night in budget hotel | $15-30 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Less crowded than Luxor or Aswan
- Affordable street food and lodging
- Rich Nile scenery and slow-paced culture
- Accessible from nearby towns via roads
- Limited English-speaking services in some spots
- Fewer organized tourist amenities
- Heat in summer can be challenging
- Distance to major airports
- "السلام عليكم" - Hello / Peace be upon you
- "شكرا" - Thank you
- "كم السعر؟" - How much is the price?
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "هل يتحدث أحد الإنجليزية؟" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Qifţ
Visit one of these nice places.
A wide river view with soft evening light and palm silhouettes.
Narrow, sun-dappled lanes with traditional facades and daily activity.
Ancient stones and desert horizons offering dramatic silhouettes at sunrise.
Open fields with irrigation channels and farmers at work.
Food in Qifţ
Qifţ Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty layered dish of lentils, rice, pasta, and tomato sauce, widely available at inexpensive eateries.
Must-Try!
A green, mucilaginous soup made from jute leaves, typically served with rice or bread and pieces of meat.
Stuffed vegetables (usually zucchini, peppers, or vine leaves) filled with spiced rice and herbs.
Egyptian falafel made from fava beans, crispy on the outside and soft inside.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A daily market where you can buy fresh produce, herbs, spices, bread, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Small stalls offering falafel, grilled corn, baladi bread sandwiches, and sharp, flavorful sauces.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees in markets and religious sites.
Greet elders with a simple 'Salam' or 'As-salamu alaykum' and use polite titles.
Ask permission before photographing people; avoid taking photos of private homes or individuals without consent.
Safety
Tipping in Qifţ
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary for good service; 5-10% in cafes if service isn’t included; small tips for guides and drivers.
Cash is widely used; some shops accept cards in town, but carry Egyptian pounds for markets and small vendors. ATMs are available in larger towns nearby.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and dry; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon, stay hydrated, wear a hat and light clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Warm days with cooler evenings; comfortable for outdoor exploration, occasional sand in the air depending on winds.
Mild days with chilly nights; pleasant for ruins visits and river outings, some evenings can be cool.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming vegetation; great for walking, photography, and village visits.
Qifţ at Night
Hiking in Qifţ
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Desert trails east of the Nile with scenic rock formations and sweeping views.
Gentle to moderate hikes with olive groves and traditional terraces.
Airports
How to reach Qifţ by plane.
Major hub serving the region; about 200-250 km from Qift; connected to Cairo and international destinations.
Smaller airport farther to the south; offers regional and some international flights; longer drive from Qift.
Egypt's main airport; far from Qift but serves many international connections; typical base for longer trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Muslim with a Coptic minority; rural, family-oriented communities; age distribution skews younger in town and nearby villages.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely watched and played in towns and schools; local leagues and pickup games.
Popular due to river paths and flat terrain; locals and visitors enjoy rides along the Nile.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Qifţ.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes are plant-based; ask for no meat stock and opt for legumes, vegetables, and bread; in markets, request vegetable dishes prepared with oil rather than animal fat.