On Florian's Trails

Photography & Adventures by Florian Huguenin

Whispers of Ancient Egypt

Step into the heart of Egypt, where ancient history meets the vibrant pulse of modern life. This category captures my journey through the timeless land of pharaohs, bustling souks, and golden dunes.
From the majestic pyramids of Giza to the tranquil waters of the Nile, these posts chronicle my exploration of Egypt’s iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and the stories etched into its sun-scorched landscapes. Join me as I uncover the mystique, beauty, and culture of this extraordinary country, one photograph and tale at a time.

  • Embarking for Egypt: Adventure Awaits

    Embarking for Egypt: Adventure Awaits

    Today begins a journey long imagined, the kind that stirs the soul with anticipation and paints dreams with the allure of ancient wonders. I find myself stepping into the storied land of Egypt – the cradle of the Pharaohs, the timeless Nile, and a civilization cloaked in millennia of mystery.

    Leaving Cameroon for Egypt

    The day unfolded early in Douala, the routine hum of work temporarily replaced by the electric buzz of adventure. The sun had barely begun its ascent when I awoke, eager to embrace the unknown. Rising with purpose proved serendipitous; much remained to be done. Packing, that essential ritual of any journey, awaited. My priorities, perhaps unconventional, centered first on my craft: camera, lenses, drone, and a myriad of chargers – all the tools necessary to capture the essence of this adventure. My wife, ever the amused observer, gently teased my disregard for more traditional essentials like clothing and toiletries.

    By noon, preparations were complete, and we set off for the airport, our flight slated for 14:50. Save for an unexplained hour-long delay, the journey began smoothly. As we boarded the Airbus A330-200, its seats teeming with passengers destined for Cairo and beyond, the reality of the adventure ahead began to sink in.

    Touching down in Cairo

    Landing in Egypt

    Touching down in Cairo, we were met with warm efficiency by our travel agency’s representative, who seamlessly guided us through entry formalities. As we stepped outside, the night unveiled its magic. The drive to our hotel took 45 minutes, and along the way, the city hinted at its grandeur. The shadowy outlines of pyramids pierced the glowing urban horizon, a fleeting promise of the marvels awaiting us.

    Cairo is vast – an endless sprawl of life and history. Even a brisk 45-minute journey barely begins to capture its essence. Home to over 9 million people within the city proper and more than 22 million in its surrounding suburbs, Cairo is a metropolis where humanity’s presence is as palpable as its ancient legacy. The sheer scale is humbling, a challenge for urban planners and a feast for the senses.

    Arrival at the Hotel

    We arrived at our hotel at 23:45, the day’s weariness tempered by our mounting excitement. The night, however, offered little rest; with a 3:00 AM departure for Aswan and a flight scheduled for 6:00 AM (5:00 Douala time), only a brief respite lay between us and the next chapter of our adventure.

    As I bid goodnight from Cairo, I am filled with a profound sense of wonder and anticipation. This is a land where the echoes of antiquity mingle with the pulse of the modern world, a place where stories both ancient and contemporary await discovery.