About this experience
Luxor is the best place to study the masterpieces of ancient Egyptian culture, as it holds a third of the cult monuments of the era. You will visit the Karnak complex and immerse yourself in one of the most interesting religious-mythological worlds of mankind. Hear about the legendary tombs and the Colossi of Memnon. At the end, 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 of the Ancient World and the main state sanctuary of the New Kingdom. Trace the history of the ensemble's formation, which was laid out as early as the 20th century BC and continuously developed for two thousand years. Explore the symbolism of the main monuments, realize the power of the priestly cult, and see how the pharaohs sought to surpass their predecessors.
The Valley of the Kings
On the opposite bank, we will transfer to the City of the Dead - here, in the depths of the mountain, are 63 tombs of pharaohs, including the legendary Tutankhamun and Ramses II. We will talk about the ancient Egyptians' beliefs about the afterlife, the principles behind the construction of the tombs, and of course, the history of their discovery.
Queen Hatshepsut's Temple
Next, you will encounter a true marvel of engineering ingenuity. You will see three large terraces, and on each of them - courtyards, columned halls, and sanctuaries hewn into the rock. Find out how this structure differs from other temples of Egyptian kings and the fascinating history of the first female pharaoh.
The Singing Colossi of Memnon
Near the two grand statues - 18 meters high and weighing 700 tons each - you will hear the story of the monuments, installed next to the lost 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 trip will be a journey along the Nile. On a shaded motorboat, you will visit the island with banana plantations. We will show you banana blossoms, from which fruits are produced, treat you to fresh aromatic bananas and traditional red tea. And in the local aviary, you will see crocodiles.
Traditions and Customs of Modern Egypt
During the journey, you will also learn about how life is structured in Egyptian society today. We will tell you about traditions related to marriage, divorce, childbirth, about official and religious holidays - the holy month of Ramadan, the births of the Prophet Muhammad and Jesus Christ. Additionally, you will understand the ancient and current calendar system and gain a general understanding of the economy, incomes, education, pressing social issues, and their gender aspects.
Organizational Details
What's Included and What's Not
- The price includes transfer on a modern 2022 Toyota microbus with an air conditioner
- Additional entrance tickets are paid separately: Karnak Temple - $13, Luxor Temple - $11, Valley of the Kings - $16, Queen Hatshepsut's Temple - $9, a Nile cruise with a visit to Banana Island - $10, lunch - $5-7
How the Excursion is Conducted
- We will meet you at any location in Marsa Alam and bring you back
- An early departure is planned, at 04:00, we recommend ordering breakfast at the hotel to take with you, as well as a late dinner
- The road to Luxor takes 4.5-5.5 hours. We will drive to the town of Safaga (220 km north of Marsa Alam), bypass a checkpoint, and under police escort, head to Luxor. There will be one sanitary stop along the way (15-20 minutes). The excursion in Luxor will end around 18:00, and you will be back at the hotel by 23:00.
- No visits to shops are included in the program
- With the group's consent, one sightseeing stop may be replaced
Your tour will be conducted by one of our professional Russian-speaking guides.
