7 Fun Things To Do In El Wadi El Gedid (The New Valley Governorate)

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Ever wondered what the Egyptian hieroglyphics and designs looked like? Or how old structures are still standing? In this article, I’ll take you on a journey through the fun things to do in the New Valley Governorate (El Wadi El Gedid) to immerse you in the rich cultural heritage of the Egyptians.

On this journey to learn the exciting things to do in El Wadi El Gedid, you’ll find out the beauties embedded in the great Egypt.

 

1. Visit to the Temple of Hibis

Egypt is known for its ancient history and structures.  The Temple of Hibis is one of the oldest structures in the whole of Egypt.

 

It is the largest in the whole western oases and the whole of Egypt. It is the only standing structure dated to the Saite-Persian era long in the years 664-404 BCE.

 

This temple is still standing in relatively good condition. In history, it is noted that the temple was a strategic location for important stops to drink water along the caravan routes across the Western Deserts.  Offering a good unique captivating experience, tourists enjoy the architectural sight of the structure.

Scenes of Egyptian history, mythology, and daily lifestyle are depicted on the walls of the temple. The temple is designed with intricate carvings of their cultural values.  The carvings give a glimpse into the customs, beliefs, and even the artistic traditions of old Egypt.

 

It is also located in a very cool area where visitors and every other individual coming into the region enjoy a peaceful and tranquil surrounding, with a feel of the deserts. This temple was originally dedicated to the god Amun who is one of the very important deities in Egyptian culture. This temple shaped the cultural and religious life of the people of the area.

 

The temple has a very complex structure. It gives room for visitors to journey through the temple’s chambers, corridors, and various courtyards. All these walks offer tourists to discover hidden treasures and mesmerize them with architectural prowess.

 

Visitors also can capture stunning images of age-long structures and ruins within the temple.

 

2. Visit to the White Desert National Park

The white limestone rock formation of the park is a very striking feature of the White Desert National Park. Over the times of millennia, erosion, sand, and wind have made these formations, and it now stands as one of the fun things to do in the New Valley Governorate.

 

The limestone formation thus creates an ethereal beauty that resembles giant camels, mushrooms, and other beautiful creations. There is a stark contrast between the beautiful white limestone rocks and the rather desert surroundings.

 

This contrast creates an otherworldly and surreal space. These features thus make you feel as though you are out on another planet.

The White desert gives a beautiful sight at night when you gaze into the skies. The remote location of this desert gives you an opportunity of stargazing and looking into the Milky Way.

All this stargazing is made possible as the area is not corrupted by light pollution. Visitors also can camp, hike, go on adventures, and explore the distinct rock formations.

 

You also have the chance to take cool photos of the rock formations, the beautiful sky at night, and the vast expanse of the white sand in the area. You have a chance to experience firsthand a unique and unforgettable blend of adventure, natural beauty, and so many sights of beauty.

 

3. Visit to The Theban Tombs

One of the fun things to do in the New Valley Governorate is taking a trip to the Theban Tombs. Egypt is home to hieroglyphics and intricate paintings. All these can be seen on the walls of these tombs. They depict Egyptian daily life, funeral rituals, and mythology.

 

These art carvings on the tomb say a lot about the customs, beliefs, and traditional norms of old Egypt. This tomb is historically significant as it housed the remains of many key figures in history such as Pharaohs, Priests, and Nobles. All these attributes has further made it an archaeological site.

 

These tombs are associated with distinct historical times which provides insights into the evolution of the ancient Egypt civilization. Despite the years of these Theban Tombs, they are well preserved. The climatic dryness of Egypt has also helped to preserve these tombs.

 

An unforgettable encounter is what everyone takes home from a visit to the Theban Tombs. The quiet and serene atmosphere coupled with the art inscriptions and historical heritage is something no one should miss on a visit to El Wadi El Gedid.

 

For additional context and information, guided tours are provided in the tomb. The intricate artistry, well-preserved state of tombs, and historical significance make it a must-visit on a tour to El Wadi El Gedid.

 

4. A Visit to Gilf Kebir

Just like the White Desert National Park, the Gilf Kebir is home to many unique formations of rocks. These formations include mushroom-shaped rocks, towering cliffs, and sandstone beauties.

 

All these create a surreal landscape making the area seem as though it is some other planet. There is an ancient hidden oasis embedded in the plateau of the Gilf Kebir.

 

This oasis was once a thriving settlement. Now this place is open to tourists to go on adventures on the ruins of the oasis. The Gilf Kebir is popular for its prehistoric rock art which gives an insight into the lives and the people who occupied the region in ancient times.

 

Spiritual symbols, humans, and animals are depictions made on the walls of shelters and caves with paintings and engravings. This place is a paradise of adventure. You cannot run out of adventurous stuff while on the Gilf Kebir.

From camping, to hiking, to discovering secret canyons, and valleys, and even exploring rugged terrain are all fun activities to do in the region. You can also marvel at different consolations as you stargaze at night in this region. The remote location makes stargazing possible.

 

5. Visit the El Bagawal Cemetery

It’s very rare for an ancient Egypt cemetery to have its tombs intact. Well, this is not the case for the El Bagawal Cemetery.

 

It has a huge number of its tombs still available. This allows tourists to check out some burial chambers. Visitors can also see the various artifacts and decorations in a very close manner while exploring the area.

 

The class and status of Egyptians buried here can easily be detected. The tombs in the Bagawal Cemetery are in types like mastabas, rock-cut tombs, and mostly mud bricks.

 

The decor of this place is beautiful as it is often painted with sculptures and hieroglyphs inscriptions. All these designs and paintings give insight into the burial rites of the ancient locals.

This place is said to have revealed several historical proofs that serve as a great archaeological site that is still in research and excavation.

 

Interestingly, visitors tend to appreciate the historical beauty of the cemetery. Individuals are graced with the serene atmospheric condition of the area.

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6. Visit to the El Dakhla Oasis

This Oasis has an amazing landscape. It is made of palm-fringed oases, and sandstone cliffs which create a natural environment. Drives, camel rides, and hikes are activities visitors can enjoy.

 

This place was once a rich cultural and trading center. It has a very strong history which visitors can learn about on a visit to the temple. It also has lakes that are crystal clear. These lakes are mostly warm which gives the environment a relaxed feel.

 

Visitors and locals alike have the opportunity to fish, swim, and also boat around the lakes. You can be a part of the cultural heritage of this place if you visit. You get to taste traditional cuisines while learning about the cultural values of the place.

 

It’s a place that speaks of the Old Egyptian Bedouin traditions, and you can also stargaze the Milky Way in this place.

 

7. A visit to the Black Desert

Just as the name says, this place is unique for its black volcanic sand. This makes for a special atmosphere in the region.

 

The area has beautiful rolling dunes. These dunes are just perfect for activities of dune dashing, Carmel trekking, and of course, sandboarding.

 

All this goodness can be carried away with you when you take great pictures of the area and of course, the happiness you share.

 

The peace and tranquility from these deserts are therapeutic. It gives you relaxation from the ups and downs of everyday city life. With this serene atmosphere, you can enjoy a good sky gaze.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How family and children-friendly is El Wadi El Gedid?

It is a great and exciting place to go as a family. You enjoy outdoor games and activities with no natural threat whatsoever.

2. When is the perfect time on the calendar to visit?

Over time, it has been discovered that the best time to visit the region is during the months of October through April. These are times when the region is cooler.

 

3. How safe is a trip to El Wadi El Gedid?

This place is considered generally safe for tourists and visiting bodies.  But following causes is also a great idea. You can do this by sticking to local guidelines.

4. How can I get there?

The best way to reach El Wadi El Gidid is by car or an arranged tour from Cairo. You should also note that there are scarce bus services in the region.

Conclusion – 7 Fun Things To Do In El Wadi El Gedid

A visit to Egypt is always something to anticipate, not to talk on a visit to the New Valley Governorate. With lots of  fun things to do in the New Valley Governorate, El Wadi El Gedid sure has amazing places that strongly hold the cultural values of the indigenous people.

Not only would you learn about their history, architecture, and values. You also stand the chance to enjoy nature and sky gaze which is a common feature of most places in the New Valley Governorate.