About this experience
Luxor is the best place to study the masterpieces of ancient Egyptian culture, as it houses a third of the cult monuments of the era. You will visit the Karnak Complex and immerse yourself in one of the most fascinating religious-mythological worlds of humanity. You will hear about legendary tombs and the Colossi of Memnon. And in the end, you will embark on a journey along the great Nile.
What to Expect
The Karnak Temple Complex
In the City of the Living, on the east bank of the Nile, you will visit an open-air archaeological museum: the largest temple complex in the Ancient World and the main state sanctuary of the New Kingdom. Trace the history of the ensemble, established as far back as the 20th century BC and continuously developed for two thousand years. Explore the symbolism of the main monuments, understand the power of the priestly cult, and see how the pharaohs sought to surpass their predecessors.
Valley of the Kings
On the opposite bank, we will transfer to the City of the Dead where 63 royal tombs are located, including those of the legendary Tutankhamun and Ramesses II. We will discuss the ancient Egyptians' beliefs about the afterlife, the principles behind the creation of tombs, and of course, not overlook the history of their discoveries.
Temple of Queen Hatshepsut
Next, you will encounter a true marvel of engineering. You will see three large terraces, each with courts, columned halls, and sanctuaries carved into the rock. Discover how this structure differs from other temples of Egyptian kings and learn about the intriguing history of the first female pharaoh.
The Singing Colossi of Memnon
By the two grand statues - each 18 meters tall and weighing 700 tons - you will hear the story of the monuments, erected at the no longer existing temple of King Amenhotep III. Learn about the origin of their name and the legends that glorified the Colossi even in ancient times.
Trip to Banana Island
The highlight of the journey will be a trip along the Nile. On a motorboat with a roof, you will head to the island where banana plantations are located. We will show you banana flowers, from which fruits are obtained, treat you to fresh aromatic bananas and traditional red tea. Moreover, in a local enclosure, you will see crocodiles.
Traditions and Customs of Modern Egypt
During the trip, you will also learn how life is organized in Egyptian society today. We will talk about traditions related to marriage, divorce, childbearing, official and religious holidays - the sacred month of Ramadan, the birth of the Prophet Muhammad and Jesus Christ. Additionally, you will grasp the ancient and current calendar system and gain a general understanding of the economy, income, education, acute social issues, and their gender aspects.
Organizational Details
What's Included and What's Not
- The price includes transfers for 1-2 persons (with a child possible) in a modern air-conditioned sedan or for 3-8 persons in a modern Toyota 2023 air-conditioned minibus
- A guide will meet you at the hotel and see you back at the end of the program
- Additional costs include entrance tickets to the Karnak Temple - $13, Valley of the Kings - $16, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut - $9, a Nile boat trip to Banana Island - cost depends on the number of travelers on the boat (from $7 to $15 per person), lunch - $5-7
How the Excursion Goes
- We will meet you at any location in Hurghada and drop you back
- Early departure is planned at 05:00, we recommend having breakfast at the hotel
- The road to Luxor takes 4 hours, with one sanitary stop on the way (15-20 minutes). The excursion in Luxor will end around 16:00, and by 20:00 you will be back at the hotel
- No stops at shops are included in the program
- Upon the group's request, the program can be adjusted considering the route and duration of the trip
- By prior arrangement with the guide, a visit to Dendera (70 km north of Luxor) to see the Temple of Hathor - the goddess of the sky, joy, femininity, and motherhood can be included
- By prior arrangement, one of the locations can be replaced with a visit to the Luxor Temple and the Avenue of Sphinxes
Your excursion will be conducted by one of our professional Russian-speaking guides.