Discover the Charm of Egypt Through Its Iconic Film Settings

As an ardent film lover, I’ve always been fascinated by how movies can transport you to different places, expose you to different cultures, and make you feel like a part of the story. And Egypt offers an ideal backdrop for this cinematic exploration. From the towering Pyramids of Giza to the bustling Khan El Khalili market in Cairo, Egypt’s iconic sites have become unforgettable frames in many blockbuster movies.

In this comprehensive travel guide, I will take you on a journey through Egypt, as depicted in movies, TV shows, and literature. We will explore famous shooting locations, dive into children’s and animated films, uncover hidden gems, and much more. So, buckle up, as we embark on this cinematic journey!

A List of the 10 Famous Films Shot in Egypt

Egypt, with its iconic Pyramids, sweeping deserts, and the pulsating life of the Nile, has long been a favorite setting for filmmakers looking to capture its unique blend of historical grandeur and scenic beauty. Here are ten movies set in the land of the pharaohs:

1. “Cleopatra” (1963): This epic historical drama, starring Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and Rex Harrison, used the landscapes of Egypt to tell the story of the famous queen.
2. “Death on the Nile” (1978): Based on the Agatha Christie novel, this murder mystery unfolds on a steamship on the Nile River.
3. “The Spy Who Loved Me” (1977): James Bond’s adventure brought him to Egypt, featuring scenes at the Pyramids and the ancient city of Luxor.
4. “Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark” (1981): The opening scenes of this iconic adventure movie were shot in Egypt, showcasing the country’s desert landscapes.
5. “The Mummy” (1999) and “The Mummy Returns” (2001): These action-adventure films used Egypt as the backdrop for their thrilling narratives, featuring the Pyramids and ancient tombs.
6. “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen” (2009): The climactic battle scenes were filmed in Egypt, with the Pyramids featuring prominently.
7. “Exodus: Gods and Kings” (2014): This biblical epic, telling the story of Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt, was filmed partly in Egypt.
8. “X-Men: Apocalypse” (2016): Scenes depicting ancient Egypt were filmed on location, adding authenticity to the comic book drama.
9. “Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves” (1944): This classic adventure film made full use of Egypt’s atmospheric settings, from bustling bazaars to desert landscapes.
10. “Lawrence of Arabia” (1962): Although primarily set in Arabia, several scenes were shot in Egypt, capturing the sweeping desert vistas and the Suez Canal.

These films showcase Egypt’s picturesque settings and landmarks, providing audiences with a rich canvas to experience the country’s unique allure through a diverse array of cinematic stories.

5 TV Shows Set in Egypt

Egypt’s rich culture and picturesque landscapes have made it an ideal setting for many TV shows. Here’s a look at five shows that capture the essence of this vibrant land:

1. “Egypt” (2005): This BBC docudrama recounts the history and archeological discoveries of ancient Egypt.
2. “The Egyptian Book of the Dead” (2006): This History Channel documentary series delves into the spiritual beliefs and practices of the ancient Egyptians.
3. “Egypt’s Golden Empire” (2001): PBS’s three-part series explores the rise and fall of the ancient Egyptian civilization.
4. “Joann Fletcher’s Egypt” (2010): This series follows Egyptologist Joann Fletcher as she explores Egypt’s history, culture, and archaeological treasures.
5. “Tut” (2015): This miniseries dramatizes the life and reign of the young pharaoh Tutankhamun.

In these series, Egypt is more than just a setting—it’s a character that adds to the narrative, enriching the stories with its unique spirit and charm.

5 Animated Films Set in Egypt

Animated films have also been captivated by the allure of Egypt. Here are five animated films that bring the spirit of Egypt to the screen:

1. “The Prince of Egypt” (1998): This DreamWorks Animation film tells the biblical tale of Moses in a beautifully animated format.
2. “Tutenstein” (2003-2007): This animated TV series is about a 10-year-old boy who is actually a reincarnated Egyptian pharaoh.
3. “Mr. Peabody & Sherman” (2014): The time-traveling duo visits ancient Egypt in this DreamWorks Animation film.
4. “Asterix & Cleopatra” (1968): The famous French comic characters Asterix and Obelix find themselves in Egypt in this animated adventure.
5. “Kleo the Misfit Unicorn” (1997-1999): This animated series features a unicorn named Kleo who lives in ancient Egypt.

These animated features celebrate Egypt’s unique blend of history and mythology, providing audiences with engaging stories and stunning visuals that highlight the country’s allure.

Famous Books Set in Egypt: Classic and Contemporary

Egypt, known for its iconic pyramids, rich mythology, and ancient civilization, has been a vibrant setting for many literary works. Here are three classic and three contemporary books that bring the spirit of this North African country to life:

Classic:

1. “Death Comes as the End” by Agatha Christie: This murder mystery set in ancient Egypt showcases Christie’s meticulous research and vivid imagination.
2. “River God” by Wilbur Smith: This epic novel brings to life the ancient civilization of Egypt in all its glory and brutality.
3. “The Egyptian” by Mika Waltari: This classic historical novel follows the life of Sinuhe, a physician in the time of Pharaoh Akhenaten.

Contemporary:

1. “The Yacoubian Building” by Alaa Al Aswany: This novel provides a cross-section of modern Egyptian society, with the titular building serving as a microcosm of Cairo.
2. “Palace Walk” by Naguib Mahfouz: The first book in Mahfouz’s Cairo Trilogy offers a detailed portrait of a Muslim family in Egypt during the British occupation.
3. “Nefertiti” by Michelle Moran: This historical novel brings to life the beauty and power of Nefertiti, one of the most powerful women in ancient Egypt.

Each of these books, from classic to contemporary, encapsulates different facets of Egypt’s multifaceted persona, from its role as a cradle of civilization to its contemporary society.

Exploring Egypt’s Filming Locations – Where to Go

If you’re eager to tread the paths of movie stars and soak up the cinematic history of this ancient land, here are some essential filming locations in Egypt you must visit:

1. Pyramids of Giza: The world-famous pyramids have been a backdrop for many films, from “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen” to “The Mummy.”
2. Karnak Temple: This ancient complex in Luxor has been featured in films like “Death on the Nile” and “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.”
3. Abu Simbel: These massive rock temples were the stunning location for scenes in “The Spy Who Loved Me.”
4. The Sahara Desert: Countless films have used the sweeping sand dunes of Sahara as their canvas, including “Lawrence of Arabia.”
5. Cairo: Egypt’s bustling capital has been a backdrop for many scenes in films, such as “The Spy Who Loved Me” and “Cleopatra.”

Visiting Egypt’s filming locations offers an exciting blend of entertainment and sightseeing, allowing visitors to engage with the country’s film heritage while enjoying its many historical and natural attractions.

Where to Sleep in Egypt: Cheap and Luxury Options

Egypt, with its iconic pyramids, bustling markets, and vibrant cultural scene, offers a diverse array of sleeping accommodations, from the ultra-luxurious to the charmingly economical.

On the luxury end of the spectrum, discerning guests have stellar options:

1. The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo: Overlooking the Nile and Tahrir Square, this hotel offers luxury accommodations in the heart of Cairo.
2. Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh: For a beachfront luxury experience, this resort in Sharm El Sheikh offers stunning views of the Red Sea.
3. Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan: This historic hotel in Aswan offers luxury accommodations with a view of the Nile.

For those seeking budget-friendly options without sacrificing comfort, Egypt has a range of accommodations:

1. Dahab Paradise: This budget-friendly hotel in Dahab offers stunning views of the Red Sea and the Sinai mountains.
2. Arabian Nights Hotel, Cairo: Located in the heart of Cairo, this hotel offers affordable accommodations with easy access to the city’s main attractions.
3. Nubian Oasis Hotel, Aswan: For a unique and budget-friendly stay, this hotel in Aswan offers accommodations in traditional Nubian style.

Whether you choose the indulgent opulence of Egypt’s luxury hotels or the cozy and affordable hostels, you’ll find that each option offers a unique way to experience this dynamic country.

Where to Eat in Egypt: From Flavorful Bargains to Opulent Tables

Egypt, a country famed for its iconic pyramids and diverse food scene, provides a myriad of dining options that suit both frugal foodies and those looking to splurge on a high-end meal. For an enjoyable dining experience that’s kind on the wallet, consider visiting:

1. Felfela, Cairo: Known for serving some of the best falafel and shawarma in the city, this Cairo staple is a go-to for tasty and affordable Egyptian eats.
2. Alexandria’s Fish Market: For fresh seafood at reasonable prices, the Fish Market in Alexandria is a must-visit.
3. Sofra, Luxor: This restaurant offers traditional Egyptian cuisine at bargain prices, with a charming atmosphere to boot.

On the luxurious end of the spectrum, Egypt’s upscale dining establishments are not just about food, but offer complete sensory experiences:

1. Abou El Sid, Cairo: This upscale restaurant offers a taste of traditional Egyptian cuisine in a sophisticated setting.
2. The Revolving Restaurant, Cairo: Located at the top of Cairo Tower, this restaurant offers panoramic views of the city along with its fine dining experience.
3. The Terrace, Four Seasons Hotel, Sharm El Sheikh: For a luxury dining experience with stunning sea views, The Terrace is the place to go.

Whether you’re in the mood for a casual bite or an extravagant meal, Egypt’s dining scene is as varied and exciting as the country itself.

Detailed Itinerary: Exploring Egypt’s Filming Locations Day by Day

Dive into the cinematic charm of Egypt, a country that has hosted some of the most memorable moments in film history.

Day 1: Begin your tour in Cairo, visiting the Pyramids of Giza, featured in countless films. Head to the bustling Khan El Khalili market, featured in films like “Cairo Time.”

Day 2: Explore the city of Alexandria, where scenes from “Cleopatra” were filmed. Visit the ancient Roman Amphitheater and the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina.

Day 3: Travel to Luxor and visit the Karnak Temple, featured in “Death on the Nile.” Also explore the Valley of the Kings, the location of the tomb of Tutankhamun.

Day 4: Head to Aswan and visit the Aswan Dam, featured in “The Spy Who Loved Me.” Also visit the Philae Temple and the Nubian Village.

Day 5: Take a trip to Abu Simbel, where scenes from “The Spy Who Loved Me” were filmed. Marvel at the massive rock temples of Ramses II and Nefertari.

Day 6: Return to Cairo and visit the Egyptian Museum, which houses many of the artifacts seen in films like “The Mummy.”

Day 7: Spend your final day exploring the modern side of Cairo, including Tahrir Square and the Cairo Opera House, both featured in several contemporary films.

Cryptid Legends and Curiosities about Egypt’s Film Industry

Egypt, with its ancient civilization and mystical allure, has sparked countless legends and curiosities that provide a fascinating backdrop to its cinematic endeavors. Tales of hidden pharaoh’s treasures, mythical creatures, and ancient curses have intrigued both filmmakers and audiences, sparking numerous documentaries and films.

Perhaps the most famous of these is the curse of the pharaohs, which alleges that anyone who disturbs the tomb of an ancient pharaoh is doomed to suffer ill fate. This legend has been the basis for many films, including “The Mummy.”

In the shadowy corners of Egypt’s deserts and ancient temples, local legends whisper of cryptids like the salawa, a mythical creature said to dwell in the desert. These tales add an element of the mysterious to Egypt’s film locations, offering a rich vein of inspiration for the fantasy and horror genres.

The intertwining of Egypt’s ancient landscapes with its cryptid legends creates an irresistible allure for the film industry, inviting viewers to explore a side of the country that thrives on the edge of imagination and reality. This interplay between the seen and the unseen is what continues to make Egypt a compelling protagonist in the world of film.

Hidden Gems in Egypt

Beyond the iconic pyramids and the bustling streets of Cairo, Egypt harbors a number of lesser-known locales that are cinematic gold. These hidden gems provide picturesque, evocative settings that can bring a unique character to any film.

1. White Desert: This surreal landscape, with its chalk-white rock formations, provides a unique backdrop for films.
2. Siwa Oasis: Nestled in the Western Desert, this remote oasis with its mud-brick buildings and palm groves offers a glimpse of traditional Egyptian life.
3. Dahab: This laid-back beach town on the Sinai Peninsula has a bohemian vibe that contrasts with Egypt’s bustling cities and ancient monuments.
4. Abydos: This ancient city, home to the Temple of Seti I, is less frequented by tourists but holds significant archaeological and cinematic appeal.
5. Port Said: This Mediterranean port city, with its Suez Canal and colonial architecture, offers a different perspective of Egypt.

Discovering these spots can give your project an original Egyptian flair that stands out in the cinematic landscape.

What to Pack for a Film-Themed Trip to Egypt

Packing for a film-themed trip to Egypt requires consideration of the country’s desert climate and conservative culture. Here are some essentials:

1. Lightweight clothing: Egypt’s climate is generally hot and dry, so lightweight, breathable clothing is a must. Long-sleeved shirts and long pants are recommended to protect against the sun and respect local customs.
2. Sun protection: Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against the intense Egyptian sun.
3. Comfortable shoes: Whether you’re exploring the Pyramids of Giza or wandering the streets of Cairo, comfortable walking shoes are essential.
4. Layered clothing: While days can be hot, nights in the desert can be surprisingly cool. Make sure to pack some layers for the evenings.
5. Camera: To capture your own cinematic memories, don’t forget your camera. A good zoom lens can be particularly useful for capturing distant shots of Egypt’s magnificent landscapes and ancient ruins.

Transportation Tips for Getting Around Egypt’s Filming Locations

Navigating Egypt’s filming locations can be both thrilling and challenging. Here are some tips on how to get around the cinematic landscapes of Egypt:

1. Public Transit: Egypt’s public transit system includes trains, buses, and metro services in major cities. The Egyptian National Railways run regular services along the Nile from Alexandria to Aswan.
2. Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are widely available in cities like Cairo and Alexandria. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are also available in major cities.
3. Private Car or Tour Bus: For exploring filming locations outside of cities, renting a private car or joining a tour bus can be a more convenient option.
4. Domestic Flights: For longer distances, consider taking a domestic flight. EgyptAir operates regular services between Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and Sharm El Sheikh.
5. Ferries and Riverboats: To explore the Nile, consider taking a riverboat or a ferry. This can provide a unique perspective of Egypt, as seen in films like “Death on the Nile.”

Navigating Egypt’s filming locations with these transportation tips will allow you to experience the cinematic history embedded in the country’s fabric.

Travel Documents Needed for Visiting Egypt

When planning a film-themed trip to Egypt, it’s crucial to ensure you have the right travel documents. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Valid Passport: Travelers coming to Egypt from outside the country must have a passport that is valid for at least six months after the intended period of stay.
2. Egyptian Visa: Most travelers will need a visa to enter Egypt. This can be obtained from an Egyptian embassy or consulate before travel, or on arrival for citizens of some countries.
3. Proof of Accommodation: Whether it’s a hotel booking or an address of where you’ll be staying, having this documentation may be requested upon entry.
4. Sufficient Funds: Proof of sufficient funds to support your stay in Egypt might also be required at the border to ensure that you have the means to support yourself during your visit.

It’s also recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, lost luggage, and trip interruption. Remember, if you’re planning to drive, you should carry your driver’s license and understand the rental car insurance policies. Having these documents readily available will ease your entry into Egypt and allow you to enjoy the diverse landscapes, historical sights, and cinematic landmarks of the country.

Conclusion: Your Ultimate Egypt Movie Tour Guide

Egypt, with its cinematic allure and rich history, offers a unique travel experience for movie buffs, TV series fans, and book lovers. Whether you’re a fan of classic cinema, contemporary TV series, or riveting literature, Egypt’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems will transport you into your favorite scenes. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for your ultimate Egypt movie tour!