About this experience
The capital of the pharaohs is the best place to study the masterpieces of ancient Egyptian culture. Here you will visit the Karnak complex and immerse yourself in one of the most interesting religious-mythological worlds of humanity. You will hear about the legendary tombs and the Colossi of Memnon. And at the end, you will go on a journey along the great Nile.
What to Expect
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. You will trace the history of the ensemble's formation, laid down as early as the 20th century BC and continuously built for two thousand years. You will 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 Ramses II. We will discuss the ancient Egyptians' beliefs about the afterlife, the principles behind the construction of the tombs, and of course, we will not overlook the history of their discovery.
Temple of Queen Hatshepsut
Next, you will witness a true marvel of engineering. You will see three large terraces, each with a courtyard, columned halls, and sanctuaries carved into the rock. You will learn what distinguishes this structure from other temples of Egyptian kings and why the history of the first female pharaoh is so intriguing.
Singing Colossi of Memnon
By the two grand statues, 18 meters high and weighing 700 tons each, you will hear the story of the monuments erected next to the lost temple of King Amenhotep III. You will learn about the origin of their name and the legends that glorified the colossi in ancient times.
Trip to Banana Island
The highlight of the journey will be a boat trip on the Nile. You will board a motorboat with a roof and head to the island where banana plantations are located. We will show you banana flowers, from which fruits are produced, treat you to fresh fragrant bananas and traditional red tea. Additionally, you will see crocodiles at the local crocodile farm.
Traditions and Customs of Modern Egypt
During the trip, you will also learn about life 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. You will also grasp the ancient and current calendar system and gain a general understanding of the economy, incomes, education, acute social issues, and their gender aspects.
Organizational Details
What's Included and What's Not
- Price includes transfer on a modern 2022 Toyota minibus with air conditioning
- Entrance tickets to Karnak Temple - $13, Luxor Temple - $11, Valley of the Kings - $16, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut - $9, Nile boat trip with a visit to Banana Island - $10, lunch - $5-7 are additionally paid
How the Tour is Conducted
- We will meet you at any location in Luxor and bring you back
- No visits to shops are included in the program
- Upon the group's request, one landmark can be replaced taking into account the route and the duration of the trip
The tour will be conducted by one of our professional Russian-speaking guides.
