Souvenirs Everyone Should Buy in Egypt

By
Mona Ibrahim
– April 14, 2011Posted in: Activity Guide, Top Stories, Travel Guide

A list of souvenirs everyone should buy from Egypt

Khan El Khalili Bazaar

Khan El Khalili Bazaar

Souvenirs are there to remind you of the great memories you have of a place you’ve visited and never want to forget.  They are also supposed to make the ones who didn’t join you on your trip feel that you were thinking of them during your travels. One of the best experiences you could have when traveling is buying souvenirs, and the best souvenir shopping can be for the most stereotypical items.

If you’re visiting Egypt, here is a list of fun and interesting souvenirs to buy, whether for yourself, or loved ones back home!

 

  • Miniature Pyramids

Miniature Pyramids

Mini Pyramid Souvenirs

These are great gift ideas, because, well, who doesn’t want a mini version of the only remaining ancient wonder!

 

  • Mini Shisha

Mini Shisha

Mini Shisha

These water pipes are enjoyed all over the world, and have been increasing in popularity, especially in Western countries.  While in cafes you’ll find them quite tall, you’ll be able to find a miniature version to take to friends who enjoy this pastime!

 

  • Sand-filled camels

These are cute for the kids. Basically, all they are are small leather camels filled with sand, almost like small dolls.

 

  • Papyrus scrolls

Papyrus Scroll

Papyrus Scroll

Papyrus was the paper of ancient Egypt, and to this day you can still buy a replica scroll at any of the major tourist centers. They come in all colors, and depict different battle scenes or scenes from the tombs of the pharaohs. Pick one with the hieroglyph alphabet, and have fun making words!

 

  • Alabaster vase/sculpture

Alabaster Vase

Alabaster Vase

Alabaster is a mineral that the ancients used to work and created wonderful vases and sculptures from.  It can come in various colors, and usually has a white-ish streak to it. These are especially popular in Luxor, though you can buy them in Cairo and other major tourist destinations as well.

 

  • Belly dancing outfit

It’s no secret that belly dancing has been associated with Middle Eastern culture for a long time now. Most women who come to Egypt choose to buy a belly dancing suit/outfit from the Khan El Khalili Bazaar, as they’re abundant there. These come in handy during Halloween, or other more interesting times! Definitely a fun choice of souvenir!

 

  • Gold jewelry

Gold Jewelry

Gold Jewelry

o   There are a few places in the world renowned for their gold jewelry, and especially since the discovery of the Golden Mask of King Tut, Egypt has been one of them.  The gold in Egypt is less expensive than most Western countries, and the design is more varied here. Definitely buy a gold ring or necklace from here if you like gold!

 

  • Scarab

Scarab

Scarab

o   The ancient Egyptians considered the scarab, fashioned after a dung beetle, to be a symbol of the heavenly process of the sun being rolled across the sky by the god Ra. To them, it was a heavenly symbol and quite an important one. Nowadays, you can find scarab-shaped beads and other items all around. Buy a small bracelet with a scarab bead on it for a constant reminder of your trip to Egypt!

 

  • Khartouche

Khartouche

Khartouche

o   The pharaohs often wrote words and names in the form of a Khartouche. When in Egypt, you can easily have gold or silver vendors create a khartouche for you to take home. It’s a really personal souvenir!

About Mona Ibrahim

My name is Mona and I’m a writer/blogger at Tour Egypt. Egyptian by ethnicity, I was born and raised on the east coast of the United States, living in New Jersey and Massachusetts my entire life. Three years ago, I decided to move to Egypt, on my own, and experience what it is like to live in such an incredible country. I have a degree in Hospitality Administration, I love “The Office” and Welch’s Grape Juice, and I really enjoy baking. These are my experiences and tips for Egypt.