Get the chance to visit the temples and sites of Luxor and Aswan.

On the second day of your Egypt Day Tour, you will journey north along the majestic Nile to the remarkable Kom Ombo Temple, an extraordinary site dedicated to two deities: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Haroeris, a manifestation of Horus. Constructed during the Ptolemaic period, this temple exemplifies the fascinating blend of Egyptian and Hellenistic influences, showcasing a harmonious fusion of cultures.

The temple's unique design features a symmetrical layout with two identical halls and sanctuaries, symbolizing the duality of chaos and order in ancient Egyptian belief. This architectural marvel allows visitors to appreciate the intricate relationship between the two gods and their respective domains.

The sanctuary dedicated to Sobek, revered as the god of fertility, strength, and the Nile itself, is located adjacent to the Crocodile Museum. This museum houses an impressive collection of mummified crocodiles and various artifacts, shedding light on the significance of Sobek in ancient Egyptian society and the reverence for these creatures, which were seen as both protectors and symbols of the Nile’s life-giving power.

On the opposite side of the temple lies the section dedicated to Haroeris, also known as "Horus the Elder." This lesser-known form of Horus embodies kingship, divine protection, and healing, highlighting the balance between the nurturing and fierce aspects of divinity. Haroeris’s presence in the temple reinforces the idea of royal authority and the protection of the pharaohs.

As you explore the temple, take note of the intricate reliefs, carvings, and hieroglyphic inscriptions that adorn its walls. These artistic elements provide valuable insights into the Ptolemaic rulers' efforts to integrate Egyptian religious practices into their governance, reinforcing their legitimacy and connection to the ancient gods. Each scene tells a story of devotion, power, and the enduring legacy of the gods in the daily lives of the ancient Egyptians.

This visit to Kom Ombo Temple not only enriches your understanding of ancient Egyptian spirituality but also highlights the cultural exchange that characterized the Ptolemaic era, making it a captivating stop on your Nile adventure.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The third day of your journey unfolds with a visit to Edfu, home to the Temple of Horus, celebrated as the best-preserved temple in all of Egypt. This architectural gem is renowned for its remarkably intact inscriptions and intricate carvings, having been buried beneath desert sand and silt for centuries, which helped protect it from the elements. The temple also features a Nilometer, an ancient device used to gauge the water levels of the Nile, crucial for agriculture and flood management. Additionally, you'll learn about the Feast of the Beautiful Reunion, a significant festival symbolizing the sacred union between the statues of Hathor and Horus, which reflects the deep intertwining of mythology and daily life in ancient Egypt.

Next, your tour continues to the iconic Colossi of Memnon, two massive stone statues that originally stood at the entrance of Amenhotep III's mortuary temple. Constructed from durable quartzite, these colossal figures exemplify the Egyptians' advanced logistical and engineering skills. Interestingly, during the Greco-Roman period, it was believed that the northern colossus emitted musical sounds at dawn, a phenomenon that captivated many travelers and added to the statues' mystique.

The day culminates at the expansive Karnak Temple in Luxor, a sprawling site that includes the Temple of Ptah, a lesser-known sanctuary dedicated to the god of craftsmen and creation. Here, you will encounter beautifully preserved statues of Sekhmet, the lioness-headed goddess associated with both war and healing, symbolizing the duality of destruction and protection.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

The MS Nile Dolphin Nile Cruise offers an unforgettable day of excursions in Luxor, including the iconic Valley of the Kings, which houses over 60 royal tombs, including the famous tomb of Tutankhamun. The valley's layout protects the tombs from robbers and preserves intricate wall paintings depicting the soul's journey to the afterlife.

The lesser-known tomb of Seti I is renowned for its vivid colors and elaborate decorations. The Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, also known as Djeser-Djeseru, is a place of worship and political statement, featuring statues and reliefs depicting her divine birth and journey to the mythical land of Punt. The unique terraced design of the temple sets it apart from other mortuary temples.

The Colossi of Memnon, towering statues of Amenhotep III, are the only remaining remains of his once-great mortuary temple. The Colossi continue to stand as silent sentinels, guarding the largest temple in Egypt. The journey concludes at Luxor Airport or the railway station.

Meals: Breakfast