Start the day with an early flight to Luxor, Egypt’s ancient capital. Once you arrive, your guide will take you on an unforgettable tour of Luxor’s East Bank, home to some of the world’s most famous temples.
Your first stop is the Karnak Temple, the largest temple complex in Egypt, dedicated to the Theban triad of gods: Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. Explore the Hypostyle Hall, a breathtaking space with 134 massive columns, some reaching 70 feet tall. Your guide will provide fascinating insights into the temple’s history, detailing the numerous pharaohs who contributed to its construction and the religious ceremonies held within its sacred walls.
Next, head to Luxor Temple, an elegant and well-preserved temple dedicated to the god Amun. Admire the impressive statues of pharaohs, including Ramses II, and explore the beautifully carved walls depicting royal rituals and divine ceremonies. Don’t miss the Avenue of Sphinxes, an ancient ceremonial pathway once connecting Luxor Temple to Karnak Temple, lined with statues of mythical creatures.
After a morning of temple exploration, enjoy a delicious traditional lunch at a local restaurant. You’ll sample Upper Egyptian specialties such as molokhia, fatta (a lamb and rice dish), and shawarma, which showcase the region’s distinct flavors.
After lunch, travel to the West Bank of Luxor and visit the Valley of the Kings, the final resting place of many of Egypt’s greatest pharaohs, including Tutankhamun. Explore the elaborate tombs adorned with intricate paintings depicting scenes of the afterlife and gods. As you venture into the burial chambers, you’ll hear about the ancient Egyptian beliefs surrounding death and the afterlife, as well as how the tombs were designed to ensure a pharaoh’s safe passage to the next world.
Tutankhamun’s Tomb One of the highlights of the Valley of the Kings is the tomb of Tutankhamun. Visit the tomb and see the famous burial mask, along with other treasures discovered by archaeologist Howard Carter in 1922. This discovery is one of the most significant archaeological finds in history and offers a glimpse into the life and death of Egypt’s most famous pharaoh.
After a full day of exploration, head back to your hotel in Luxor to relax and enjoy an evening at your leisure.