Best souvenirs from Egypt: Things you must buy

If you're planning a trip to Egypt, you'll likely want to bring back some of the best souvenirs from Egypt to remember your journey. However, shopping in Egypt can be challenging, especially if you have limited time to travel. Many souvenirs are not even made in Egypt and do not support the local artisans, who are at risk of disappearing.

Egypt Immigration Services will help you to choose the best gift from Egypt to give to your loved ones. Whether you're interested in traditional Egyptian crafts like leather slippers, distinctive gold, silver, or mother-of-pearl jewelry, miniature pyramids, or delicious treats such as dried dates, there are plenty of options available.

Top 10 Best Souvenirs to Buy in Egypt

Mini Pyramid Souvenirs

When you think of Egypt, the pyramids likely come to mind. The Pyramids of Giza, one of the seven wonders of the world, are a must-visit on your trip. Naturally, it's fitting to take home a memento from this iconic site. You can also purchase models of the entire complex, including the pyramids and the Sphinx, another ancient marvel.

You can display the mini of pyramids on a desk, shelf, or mantelpiece; these miniature marvels serve as constant reminders of the awe-inspiring beauty and cultural significance of the iconic Pyramids of Giza. As one of the most popular places to buy souvenirs in Egypt, each pyramid is a testament to the craftsmanship and ingenuity of the ancient Egyptians, making it a meaningful and memorable gift for any occasion.

Mini Pyramid Souvenirs

Palm Leaf Baskets

Palm leaf baskets are ubiquitous across Egypt, ranging from upscale boutiques in Zamalek to simpler versions sold by street vendors and in markets, including at souvenir shops throughout Egypt. Baskets crafted from dried palm leaves have origins tracing back to Ancient Egypt, with notable discoveries unearthed at Deir el-Bahri and various archaeological sites.

These versatile baskets are used by grocers to showcase spices and fresh produce, while housewives utilize them by lowering them on ropes from balconies to conveniently transport groceries without using the stairs.

Additionally, the Maqtaf, a palm-leaf basket commonly employed for carrying produce, has served generations of archaeologists in collecting fragments during excavations. These baskets are also made in multiple colors that can be exquisite decorations to any home decor.

Palm Leaf Baskets

Papyrus

Another best thing to buy in Egypt is Papyrus. For those who don’t know, Papyrus is one of the best souvenirs from Egypt, celebrated for its historical significance, cultural traditions, and widespread popularity. Serving as the primary medium for recording crucial societal events, papyrus was historically exported to various countries. Its hieroglyphic inscriptions offer insights into the lives of ancient Egyptians and significant historical occurrences for future generations.

In Egypt, printing machines and specialty shops offer papyrus adorned with typical Egyptian imagery. However, caution is advised when purchasing from street vendors, as many sell counterfeit items. A simple test involves running a wet finger over the surface of the papyrus: if the water penetrates, it is likely authentic.

Store of Papyrus in Egypt

Kilims

A kilim is a flat tapestry-woven rug crafted from wool, cotton, or silk. Handcrafted on wooden looms, kilims vary from vibrant and multicolored to more minimalist and geometric in design. They serve versatile purposes, functioning as carpets, door mats, throws, wall hangings, or even coasters in their smallest iterations. Khan el Khalili and various locations throughout Egypt boast an abundance of kilims and rugs in assorted shapes and styles, and other religious items are popular souvenirs in Egypt as well.

For an impressive assortment of contemporary designs crafted in the Nile Delta, Kiliim stands out as a notable Egyptian brand dedicated to preserving this traditional art form. The brand adheres to fair trade practices and offers an array of cushions, quilts, and throws both online and at their boutique in Maadi.

Kilims

Explore more: All About The Best Mall of Egypt - A Shopper's Paradise

Perfume Oils

Egypt has a long history of producing aromatic oils and perfumes, dating back to the time of the pharaohs. These oils are pure and often made from flowers, herbs, and spices. Perfume oils are a luxurious gift that captures the essence of Egypt’s flora and are a popular souvenir in Egypt. Unlike alcohol-based perfumes, these oils are long-lasting and can be used as personal fragrances or for aromatherapy.

Visit a reputable perfume shop like the Pharaoh’s Perfume Palace or Gayer-Anderson Museum shop. They often allow you to sample various scents before purchasing.

Egypt Perfume Oils

Pharaonic Objects

You can find a wide array of items adorned with images of Egyptian pharaohs, ranging from miniature plastic replicas to iconic artifacts like Tutankhamun’s death mask. Unique souvenirs to buy in different parts of Egypt include intricately hand-carved pieces detailing the lives of renowned pharaohs, which is particularly rewarding. These unique creations capture the essence of Egypt and serve as meaningful additions to your collection of cherished memories.

Pharaonic Objects are the best gift from Egypt

Lanterns

Because Egypt adheres to Islam, it's unsurprising that lanterns play a significant role in the country's culture. During the onset of Ramadan, Muslims adorn their homes with lanterns, known as 'fanous', to usher in the holy month. However, these decorative ornaments are readily available for purchase year-round, as evidenced by Cairo's bustling markets aglow with their presence.

These lanterns exhibit diverse characteristics, including varying sizes, colors, and materials such as marble, glass, and metal. Some are intricately embellished with religious phrases and symbols. Serving as exquisite souvenirs, they beautifully encapsulate the essence of Egypt, particularly during the sacred period of Ramadan.

Lanterns

Camel Leather Goods

Camel skin products offer unique and exotic gifts to present to your friends and family, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Egypt. Crafted from high-quality camel leather, these products range from intricately designed bags and wallets to decorative items such as lamps and poufs. Each piece boasts exquisite craftsmanship, with the supple texture of camel leather adding a touch of luxury to any accessory or home decor.

In Egypt, travelers can buy paintings, blankets or carpets, even some accessories to wear on like shoes, slippers, bags, socks, etc. Camel skin products are sure to be cherished by your loved ones as meaningful reminders of your journey to Egypt.

Camel leather hat

Soaps and face oils

One of the best souvenirs from Egypt that you can give to your loved ones is soaps and face oils. With reasonable prices, it is often made from nourishing ingredients such as olive oil, shea butter, and aromatic herbs like lavender and chamomile, known for their soothing properties. These soaps cleanse and moisturize the skin, leaving it soft, supple, and delicately scented. Additionally, Egyptian face oils are formulated with potent botanical extracts like rosehip, argan, and jojoba oils, renowned for their hydrating and rejuvenating effects.

Egyptian soaps are especially fragrant

Coffee

The quality of coffee in Egypt is outstanding but often overlooked. Consider picking up a couple of bags of robust and fragrant Turkish coffee, especially the varieties infused with cardamom for an extra layer of flavor. One renowned brand, Al-Yemeni Cafe, established in 1940, enjoys immense popularity throughout Egypt. Their packs can be found in most grocery stores, offering options of light and dark roasts with varying proportions of cardamom.

Egypt coffee

Conclusion

Take the time to learn about the significance and symbolism behind certain souvenirs, such as the meaning of specific motifs or designs. This can enhance your appreciation for the items you purchase and choose the best souvenirs from Egypt to give to your loved ones. However, travelers should bargain the price while purchasing products from local markets to get reasonable prices. By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure that the souvenirs you bring back from Egypt are not only beautiful but also ethically sourced and culturally meaningful.