The nearest of Egypt's oases to the Nile Valley, the lush greenery of Al Fayoum stretches along the placid shores of Lake Qaroon, just over 100 kms south west of Cairo. Apart from fishing or rowing, for those who are so inclined, there are several features of interest:
The pyramid of Amenmhet III and that of Senusert II, Fayoum having been a royal Seat in the 12th dynasty (1991 to 1785 B.C.)
The Saqqias (age-old water-wheels). Its Lake Qarun is ideal for fishing, sailing, rowing and swimming. Where to stay: Auberge Al Fayoum- Oasis Tourist Village-Panorama Shak Shouk
Al-Wadi Al-Gadeed (The New Valley): Located in the West Desert 625 kms. west of Cairo, it is the largest of Egypt's governorates. It comprises three main oases: Al Kharga, the capital, Al-Dakhla and Al-Farafra. They are amongst the most important tourist attractions. Rich in antiquities dating to different ages, the oases are characterized by security, tranquility, warmth, mild climates and dry weather. They comprise sulphur-rich springs both hot and cold, which allow the oases to be international health spas.
Tourist Sites:
Hibis Temple, Cemetery of Al-Bagawat, Al-Zayyan Temple (Kasr AI-Zayyan), Bashendi antiquities, Mut Village, Al-Kasr Village (Islamic), Al-Mizawaka Tombs, Temple of Deir Al-Hagar Kasr Abu Minkar, Kasr AI-Farafra.
How to get there:
By Air. Two Flights weekly. By Bus: Upper Egypt Bus Service Sew ice from Assyut.
The Suez Canal Cities:
Port Said, at the northern mouth of the Canal, has increased in importance since being converted into a Duty Free Zone.
Ismailia, half way between Port Said and Suez, is a town of shady gardens and quiet avenues, Lake Timsah, on which it stands, is a lay-by for Canal Convoys.
Suez, at the head of the Gulf of Suez, stands at the Red Sea and of the Canal. Lovely beaches skirt it and stretch southward the length of the coastline.
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