Egypt-land: Ethical things to do when you visit
If you're looking for a travel guide to Egypt that promotes ethical tourism and does not condone animal exploitation, you're in the right place. It is well-known and documented that handlers cruelly mistreat horses and camels, forcing them to carry visitors on their backs or in carriages. And it is Egypt's top tourist destination, including the Giza pyramids. Fortunately, there are plenty of animal-friendly alternatives that allow you to experience Egypt's rich cultural heritage without supporting such inhumane activities.
Hooray, we’re going to Egypt!
Egypt has been a beloved tourist destination for many years, owing to its breathtaking sights and rich history. However, it's also gained notoriety for rampant animal exploitation at some of its most well-known attractions. Here are five fantastic options for those seeking a more humane travel experience:
Visit a museum:
Egypt boasts a plethora of museums, such as The Egyptian Museum and the Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo, and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Alexandria. These museums provide invaluable opportunities to appreciate a vast collection of artifacts from ancient times. They also provide insights into the history of local culture.
Discover Cairo:
a variety of vibrant markets, stunning mosques, and other captivating attractions in Egypt's bustling capital city. Take a leisurely cruise on the Nile at sunset or sunrise. Savor the local cuisine, such as koshary, a traditional dish often prepared veganly (BUT check with your server). Cairo's street food scene offers a variety of delectable dishes made from lentils, rice, and noodles, topped with fried onions, chickpeas, and tomato sauce. For a quick bite to eat while exploring the city, stop by El Tahrir or Abu Tarek for a delicious bowl of koshary.
Travel to Luxor: Split by the Nile River into an East and a West Bank, this ancient city offers visitors a wealth of temples and tombs to explore. While some attractions in Luxor offer donkey, horse, or camel rides, it's worth noting that these intelligent, sentient animals are often subjected to cruel treatment throughout their lives. Once they are no longer productive, they may be sold for meat or slaughtered. If you encounter a tour that includes animal rides or other forms of animal exploitation, speak up and politely decline to participate in such inhumane activities.
Luxor Temple - Ancient Egyptian Temple
Experience Scuba Diving in the Red Sea: Whether you're keen to explore the stunning coral reefs or delve into underwater ruins, the Red Sea is a paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts. While exploring the depths, it's crucial to maintain a respectful distance from marine animals you may encounter.
Visit the Pyramids: As one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Great Pyramid of Giza is an incredibly popular attraction. However, it's important to acknowledge the unfortunate reality that handlers often force camels to carry tourists on their backs until they can no longer continue. Horses are made to pull carriages in scorching temperatures with inaccessible access to food, water, or shade. These animals are sentient beings with their own unique personalities and needs, yet they're treated as mere transportation. If someone offers you a ride or a photo with an animal, decline. The good news is that you can explore this magnificent complex on foot, and have a memorable and cruelty-free experience.
Regardless of where you're headed in Egypt, please avoid animal exploitation on your itinerary. There may be occasions when tour guides or drivers try to convince you to take a camel ride, even after you've declined. Don't hesitate to assert yourself and remind them that you won't engage in animal exploitation. Stay resolute in your stance, knowing you're making a compassionate and ethical decision. By speaking up for animals, you may inspire others in your tour group to follow suit and refrain from supporting animal exploitation.