10 Souvenirs to Bring Back From an Egypt Trip
If you have the chance to visit Egypt, a country that is both a witness to an enchanting history and perfect for relaxation, make sure to leave some room in your suitcase.
If you have the chance to visit Egypt, a country that is both a witness to an enchanting history and perfect for relaxation, make sure to leave some room in your suitcase. You'll want to bring back a few souvenirs to remember your magnificent trip to Egypt, as well as gifts to give to family and friends. Here are some souvenir ideas to purchase during your stay in Egypt.
A Miniature Pyramid
Perhaps a bit of a classic—and a touch kitschy—a mini pyramid is nonetheless an essential souvenir to bring home. Indeed, the pyramid is the first image that comes to mind when thinking of Egypt. The Giza pyramid is also the most visited archaeological site in the world and the only one of the seven wonders of the ancient world still standing today. You'll also find other statues with the appearance of ancient Egypt: sphinx, hieroglyphics, Egyptian gods, and more. Perfect for giving your home a touch of antiquity and Cleopatra.
A Papyrus Scroll
Another souvenir inspired by ancient Egypt, the beautifully painted papyrus scroll is a perfect decoration for your home. You'll find them in all sizes and with different designs to accommodate every taste.
Spices and Sweets
While not the most durable souvenirs to display at home, spices and desserts make wonderful gifts upon your return. Egypt is renowned for crafting delicious pastries sweetened and scented with honey or nuts. In the souks (markets), you'll find an abundance of fresh, high-quality spices at very affordable prices. Stock up—your palate will thank you!
Jewelry
Don't hesitate to fill your jewelry box during your stay in Egypt. You'll find numerous pieces in gold and silver at prices far more affordable than in Europe. Feel free to negotiate the price with the seller.
If you'd like to bring back jewelry that is distinctly Egyptian, you'll have plenty of choices. You'll find bracelets decorated with hieroglyphics, as well as scarab-shaped pendants—sacred animals in ancient Egypt. If you're fascinated by hieroglyphics, consider purchasing a "cartouche" pendant: you can even have one custom-made with your name written in hieroglyphics!
A Jewelry Box
And yes, if you're buying jewelry, you'll need somewhere to store it! In Egypt, you'll find beautiful boxes, often made of iron and decorated with geometric shapes and arabesques. These are typical of Islamic Egypt.
Decorative Sand
Egypt is not only the land of the pharaohs. It's also an ideal beach destination, especially for escaping the snow during winter. Bring back beautiful jars filled with colorful Egyptian sand. These artistic souvenirs are truly striking, forming tableaus of typical Egyptian landscapes—for example, a caravan of camels. These are sold particularly in coastal towns.
Carpets
If you have enough space in your suitcase and at home, why not bring back a beautiful handmade carpet? Crafted by hand using ancient techniques, Egyptian carpets feature various designs, particularly Berber patterns, which will add a beautiful touch to your living room.
Leather Slippers
Highly prized by locals, leather slippers are a fine example of Egyptian craftsmanship. You'll find some specially made for tourists, with hieroglyphics or other symbols of ancient Egypt drawn on them. Otherwise, these are everyday items worn and appreciated by Egyptians. You can also find other quality leather garments.
A Hat
In Egypt, men wear different hats depending on their region and background. They are all very colorful. A hat is a perfect decorative object, and more original than the typical pyramid. You'll find notably the hats worn by Nubian men in the markets.
A Tea Service
Egyptians craft beautiful tea services, sometimes in silver. They come in different colors and designs, ranging from simple geometric shapes to more tourist-oriented decorations (pyramids, camels, and so on). In any case, it's a lovely souvenir to bring back from Egypt. Better still, it won't gather dust since you can use it daily.
Frequently asked questions
The 10 must-have souvenirs to bring back from Egypt are: a miniature pyramid, a papyrus scroll, spices and sweets, jewelry, a jewelry box, decorative sand, an artisanal carpet, leather slippers, a Nubian hat, and a tea service. Each reflects a different aspect of Egyptian culture, whether ancient or contemporary.
To find authentic souvenirs in Egypt, head to Khan el-Khalili in Cairo, one of the world's largest bazaars. You'll find jewelry, spices, papyrus, and crafts there. The markets in Luxor and Aswan are also excellent for carpets and leather goods. In coastal towns like Hurghada or Sharm El-Sheikh, colorful sand jars are widely available.
Yes, negotiation is a common practice and even expected in Egyptian souks and markets. It's advisable to start by offering about 50 to 70 percent of the asking price, then reach a compromise. Being courteous and smiling always facilitates exchanges. In official boutiques and shopping centers, however, prices are often fixed.
Authentic papyrus is made from stems of the Cyperus papyrus plant. To verify its authenticity, try bending it gently: true papyrus bends without breaking and returns to its original shape. Imitations are often made from banana paper or ordinary paper, which are more rigid and brittle. Buy preferably from specialized shops that can provide you with a certificate of authenticity.
It is forbidden to export antiquities and archaeological objects from Egypt without official authorization. For food products like spices, European customs regulations apply, and reasonable quantities for personal use are generally tolerated. Leather items, jewelry, and handicrafts are, however, freely importable. Check with French customs before your departure.
