9 most Instagrammable places in Egypt.
Ancient Egypt is on most people’s bucket list and for good reason!
The nation’s fascinating landmarks have stood the test of time, and all tell a different story from historic times dating back over five thousand years. You will find an abundance of picture-perfect settings throughout the Northern African country.
This blog will explore the 9 most Instagrammable places in Egypt, following my solo trip down the Nile in September 2023.
Let’s uncover the mystical ancient gems!
The best Instagram shot in Egypt with the Sphinx and one of the Pyramid’s of Giza as the backdrop.
The River Nile.
The River Nile is the world’s longest river with the length of 4187 miles, and it passes through some of Egypt’s best cities, and many African countries. A river so long must be one of the Instagram-worthy spots in Africa? right!
Many cruises begin their journey in Cairo, before heading south down through the Egyptian cities Luxor and Aswan, both of which make our list of most Instagrammable places in Egypt.
Whether it is relaxing on the top deck of one of the luxurious Egyptian cruise ships, watching the world go by, or sailing on a famous ‘felucca boat’, you are going to feel the magic of the Nile during your trip.
Even in the less popular months, tourists fill the NIle.
It is amazing to think that the River Nile has given life to the Egyptian people dating back to Ancient times over 5 thousand years ago!
I enjoyed the magic of the Nile in the southern city of Aswan.
A famous ‘felucca boat’ sailing on the River Nile in Aswan.
The Karnak Temple - East Bank Luxor.
Luxor is a magical Egyptian city which is separated into its East Bank and West Bank by the Nile. Both sides of the river have ancient treasures, such as temples, museums, and tombs - which are all post card worthy!
The Karnak Temple is one of the East Bank’s most famous tourist attractions, dating back to around 2055 BC.
The Temple has amazingly stood the test of time well enough to display the intricate details of the ancient civilisation which once used it as a place of worship. The huge columns are the perfect spot to grab an Instagram shot, along with showing the sheer scale of the structures.
The carvings and hieroglyphics pique visitor’s attention as they display ancient languages throughout the complex.
You should also take a walk along the famous ‘Avenue of Sphinxes’, which is a walkway that once connected Karnak to Luxor Temple. There still some of the original sphinx statues from thousands of years ago.
Posing in the Karnak Temple in Luxor.
Abu Simbel Temple.
Welcome to Egypt’s most southern wonder!
Abu Simbel is not a straightforward excursion due to its proximity to the Sudan border. You can expect to set your alarm for 3am and a have long three-hour drive south through the Egyptian desert, however, the reward is worth it!
The Complex features two temples, both providing many great photo opportunities inside and outside. The ancient architecture of the site is believed to have been designed in such a way, that rays from the sun would penetrate the sanctuary and illuminate the sculptures on the back walls on 22nd October and 22nd February.
The sheer size of the structures are awesome and make for perfect backdrop for your Instagram profile pictures!
The amazing Abu Simbel Temple.
The Nubian Village - Aswan.
What is more Instagram-worthy than a vibrant village full of colourful architecture, camels, and quirky street art?
Visiting a traditional Nubian Village during you trip to Aswan is a must do activity, and a gateway to experience some Nubian Culture. An organised trip into the village usually entails a welcoming into a local house for tea, snacks, and a sing song.
You may just spot a crocodile or two also!
Your scenic ferry journey along the Nile to and from the village also allows you to capture some truly epic camera shots, especially if you travel at sunset. You will pass by Elephantine Island, the Aswan Botanical Garden, and an abundance of felucca boats on the Nile.
The Nubian character of Aswan is why it takes its place as one of the most Instagrammable places in Egypt!
Children riding camels is popular in the Nubian villages in Aswan.
The Great Pyramid of Giza.
This selfie spot in Egypt needs no introduction, and is one of the main reasons people visit Egypt!
The great pyramids are an iconic global landmark, furthermore, the last remaining original wonder of the world, therefore a highlight of any Cairo city break.
You will catch some great snaps from various points of the Pyramids and Sphinx (including inside two of them).
The perfect Instagram profile picture doesn’t come easy though!
The pyramids are notorious for hassle and scammers, all trying to grab some of your holiday spending money. You can expect to be disrupted during your photo taking with unwanted photobombing and a lot of shouting/whistling, or locals shouting random pyramids facts at you.
If you want to get a shot of the camels, you can also expect to have to pay for this - unless you are quick and inconspicuous with your camera.
Don’t let this put you off though, the pyramids of Giza are truly epic and abundant with amazing photo opportunities.
There are many ways to enjoy the Pyramids without a guide!
A selfie in front of the Great Pyramid of Giza.
Tombs at The Valley of the Kings - West Bank Luxor.
The Valley of the Kings is one of the greatest ever archaeological discoveries.
When Howards Carter made the discovery on the West bank of the Nile in Luxor, during an excavation expedition over a century ago, another piece of ancient history was unveiled.
As of today, you can visit the famous sights and enter many of the original tombs which were built for the Egyptian Pharaohs as far back as the eighteenth Dynasty.
You will find original hieroglyphics, ancient architecture, and flawless decorations, fit for a king - all of which make for some great selfie spots.
You can even find the mummy of Tut Anhk Amun inside his tomb. A true gem for history buffs, although his death mask is located at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.
With over 60 original tombs at the site, there is no doubt that the Valley of the Kings is one of the most Instagrammable places in Egypt.
I would not recommend visiting the west bank on your first day in Luxor if you arrive by the Egyptian sleeper train as it will be a wild night - trust me!
The hieroglyphics inside the tombs all tell a unique story.
The Step Pyramid of Saqqara.
If you want a more serene experience visiting a pyramid, then Saqqara is a must-visit spot in Egypt.
The step Pyramid of Djoser on site is the oldest known pyramid in the world. You will also find many important monuments in Saqqara such as the Pyramid of Unas, Pyramid of Sekhemket, Mastaba of Ti and the deep underground Persian Tombs.
As it is only around a thirty-minute drive from Giza, it should be on every tourist’s itinerary when visiting Cairo.
You get to spend some peaceful alone time with this fascinating archaeological wonder, so it is a great spot to catch some awesome snaps while you learn about its history.
This step pyramid is not as famous as the ‘Giza’ pyramids, but still very impressive.
The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut - West Bank Luxor.
Here we have another truly epic temple on the West Bank of Luxor!
The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut is exclusively dedicated to the only female Pharaoh - Hatsheput. She reigned in the eighteenth dynasty of Egypt. The spectacular natural approach of the steps helps to build anticipation of the ancient structures on site.
Another unique feature of this temple is that it is cut into the mountain - this offers a picture-perfect setting for you to explore!
You can feel the history in the air as you explore, which ensures this ancient temple makes the list of most Instagrammable places in Egypt.
Another awesome temple on the West Bank of Luxor.
The Philae Temple - Aswan
Located on one of Aswan’s beautiful islands, the well-preserved Philae Temple takes you on an imaginative journey back to ancient times.
The impressive temple complex had to be relocated due to the construction of the Aswan Dam in 1977 in a project that took around three years to complete, to prevent the structure from full submersion.
Today, you can walk around the island of ‘Agilkia’ and enjoy the abundance of original structures, which are decorated elaborately, and provide some spectacular scenery.
Make sure you take advantage of the photo opportunity of the beautiful temple with the river Nile backdrop, it is one of the Instagram-worthy spots in Africa I loved!
If you want a truly awe-inspiring experience, then visit the temple at night for the Philae Temple Sounds and Light show.
Most tourists also combine the colourful Nubian Village with the temple on day tours.
You have to travel by boat to visit the Philae Temple in Aswan.
Frequently asked questions about taking photos in Egypt.
Is photography allowed in Egypt?
Yes, photography is generally allowed in Egypt, but there are some restrictions.
Where can I take photos in Egypt?
You can take photos in most public places in Egypt, including streets, transport, markets, and mosques. However, there are some restrictions on taking photos in sensitive areas, such as military installations, government buildings, and near airports and other strategic infrastructure.
What can't I take photos of in Egypt?
You should not take photos of the following:
Military installations and government buildings
Airports and other strategic infrastructure
Children without their parents' permission
Adults without their consent
People who are praying or engaged in other religious activities.
Anything that could be considered offensive or insulting to Egyptian culture or religion.
Do I need a permit to take photos in Egypt?
No, you do not need a permit to take photos in Egypt, unless you are taking photos for commercial purposes, which may cost an additional amount at entry of tourist attractions.
What happens if I break the rules for taking photos in Egypt?
If you break the rules for taking photos in Egypt, you may be fined, have your camera confiscated, or even be arrested.
Additional tips for taking photos in Egypt.
Be respectful of Egyptian culture and religion.
Ask permission before taking photos of people.
Avoid taking photos of sensitive areas.
Be aware of your surroundings and avoid taking photos that could be considered offensive or insulting.
If you are unsure whether it is okay to take a photo, ask a local person.
Be prepared to pay extra for a photos of popular tourist attractions.
Expect to be approached by locals wanting to take your photo for a tip (they can be aggressive with their harassment). I experience this at Medinet Habu Temple.
Which is my favourite Instagrammable place in Egypt?
Egypt is abundant with historical wonders dating back to ancient times, however, the experience that visitors have at some of the landmarks is ruined by the locals’ harassment and scams. The Valley of Kings was my most pleasant experience, as while visiting the tombs, I was allowed to explore at my own leisure with little to no hassle.
I also got to visit King Tut’s tomb (and mummy inside) which was on my bucket list!
The hieroglyphics on display in the tombs are also the most colourful and interesting ones I seen on my Egyptian adventure, and display some of Egypt’s most important history.
The tombs in Luxor are up there with the best Instagram spots around the world.
You can also enjoy a different vibe, and some beautiful photo spots, if you stay in the resorts in Hurghada or Sharm el-sheikh.
Posing in front of the world famous tomb of King Tut.
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