Luxor – Aswan Tour (4 Nights, 5 Days)

Experience the Magnificence of the Temple of Luxor
Dedicated to Amun, the Temple of Luxor is a divine sanctuary that will take your breath away. First constructed by Amenhotep III in 1380 BC, the temple was expanded by successive pharaohs and has hosted numerous vibrant celebrations, including the famous Festival of Opet.

Discover the Valley of the Kings, an enormous necropolis where grand tombs were intricately carved into the desert cliffs, adorned lavishly, and packed with treasures intended for the afterlife.

The Valley of the Kings is located in Luxor, Egypt, and was used as a burial site for pharaohs and powerful nobles during the New Kingdom period. The tombs were constructed with great care, and each one was designed to ensure that the deceased would have everything they needed for the afterlife. These tombs were filled with treasures such as jewelry, food, and even furniture. The most famous tomb is that of Tutankhamun, which was discovered in 1922 by archaeologist Howard Carter. Despite being looted in ancient times, the tomb contained many artifacts that provided valuable insights into the life of the young pharaoh. The Valley of the Kings is a must-see destination for anyone interested in ancient Egyptian history and culture.

 The Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, the sole female Pharaoh of Ancient Egypt, emerges from the desert plains in terraces and blends in with the surrounding limestone cliffs. It appears as though the monument was crafted by nature.

Explore the Temple of Edfu – an incredible ancient Egyptian wonder located on the west bank of the Nile in the city of Edfu. Immerse yourself in its rich history and grand architectural design.

Built between 237 BCE and 57 BCE, the Temple of Edfu is the second largest temple in Egypt and is dedicated to the falcon god Horus. As you enter the temple, you’ll be greeted by two massive statues of Horus guarding the entrance. Inside, you’ll marvel at the intricate hieroglyphics on the walls and columns, and the stunning courtyards and halls that make up the temple complex.

One of the most impressive features of the Temple of Edfu is the hypostyle hall, which contains 12 massive pillars that soar up to 30 feet high. The walls of the hall are adorned with scenes depicting the legend of Horus and his battle with his uncle Seth.

Visiting the Temple of Edfu is a truly unforgettable experience that will transport you back in time to ancient Egypt. Whether you’re a history buff or simply appreciate stunning architecture, this temple is a must-see destination.

The Unique Duality of the Temple of Kom Ombo
The Temple of Kom Ombo is a fascinating piece of ancient architecture that stands out from other structures. What makes it so special is its striking duality. This captivating monument is not just one temple, but two perfectly aligned temples side-by-side. Each temple is dedicated to a different set of deities: Sobek, the crocodile-headed god of fertility, and Horus, the falcon-headed god of the sky and protector of pharaohs. The walls are adorned with intricate carvings and hieroglyphics that tell stories of ancient myth and legend. It’s definitely a must-see for anyone interested in ancient history.

The Myth of Isis and Osiris, and the Story of Philae Island
In Ancient Egyptian mythology, the goddess Isis embarked on a journey to collect the pieces of her husband Osiris’s body, which had been dismembered by his nefarious brother. On Philae Island, where she discovered Osiris’s heart, the Egyptians constructed a sacred temple devoted to Isis, goddess of purity, sexuality, nature and protection. Sadly, during the construction of the High Dam, Philae Island was submerged by water, and the temple complex was transported by UNESCO to nearby Agilika Island, where it currently resides.

The construction of the High Dam resulted in the formation of Lake Nasser, a massive body of water that reaches up to 10km wide and 500km long, and is the world’s largest man-made lake, spanning across the border between Egypt and Sudan. Despite its impressive size, the raising of water levels caused significant damage to numerous Nubian monuments. In an effort to safeguard these important cultural landmarks, the Egyptian Government, with the help of UNESCO and other countries, worked tirelessly to preserve them for future generations.

The relocation of the Philae Temple complex was a monumental task, requiring careful disassembly and reassembly of the structures, all while maintaining their original integrity and design. The process took over a decade to complete, and the temple was finally reopened to the public in 1980. Today, visitors can explore the grand halls and sanctuaries of the temple, adorned with intricate carvings and hieroglyphics that tell the story of Isis and Osiris and the ancient Egyptian religion. The temple is not only a testament to the skill and dedication of the ancient builders but also a symbol of the ongoing efforts to preserve and protect the world’s cultural heritage.

Discovering the Majestic Abu Simbel Temples
Located in Abu Simbel, a village in Nubia, southern Egypt near the Sudanese border, are two colossal rock temples that are known as the Abu Simbel temples. These historic structures are situated on the western bank of Lake Nasser and are approximately 230 km southwest of Aswan (about 300 km by road). Constructed during the reign of Pharaoh Ramesses II in the 13th century BCE, these temples are noted for their impressive architecture and historical significance. The larger of the two temples is dedicated to Ramses II himself, while the smaller one is dedicated to his wife, Queen Nefertari.

The Abu Simbel temples were originally carved out of a sandstone cliff, and they were later relocated to their current position in the 1960s. The temples were facing danger due to the rising water levels of Lake Nasser, which was created by the Aswan High Dam. The temples were dismantled, moved piece by piece, and then reconstructed on higher ground. The relocation of these temples was a monumental effort that involved the collaboration of several countries and UNESCO. Today, visitors can admire the intricate carvings and hieroglyphics that adorn the walls of the temples. The Abu Simbel temples are a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the ancient Egyptians, and they continue to inspire awe and wonder in all those who visit them.