Excursion Luxor exploration tour at Safaga

Cruise line: Silversea
Difficulty:

See the incredible landmarks known around the world in Luxor, Egypt. See the Avenue of the Sphinx at the Karnak temple, the largest religious complex ever built by man, the pink granite obelisk of Queen Hatshepsut, and walk in the Valley of the Kings.


Departing the pier, drive approximately 3.5 hours to Luxor. Upon arrival, your first stop is at the spectacular Karnak Temple, the largest religious complex ever built by man. The temple is composed of three main temples, smaller enclosed temples, and several outer temples, Karnak is a vast complex that was built and enlarged over a thirteen-hundred-year period.


Take the opportunity to see the impressive Avenue of the Sphinx, linking Karnak with Luxor Temple. View the massive statues of Ramses II, the great halls and pylons, and the pink granite obelisk of Queen Hatshepsut.


Following Karnak temple enjoy lunch at a deluxe hotel, then cross the Nile to the west bank of the city to visit the Valley of the Kings. During a period of 500 years from the 16th to 11th century B.C., tombs were constructed in this Theban Necropolis for the kings and powerful nobles of the New Kingdom.


Visit one of the regular tombs in the valley as well as gaining access to two other special tombs. See the tomb of Pharoah Seti I, the largest tomb in the valley which includes the most beautiful paintings. Then visit the most famous king's tomb known as King Tutankhamen. Please note that no explanation is allowed inside tombs; your Egyptologist gives you a full explanation before entering the tombs.


Take a final photo stop at the Colossi of Memnon, a pair of colossal statues standing alone in a farmer's field. The statues are all that remains of the Temple of Amenhotep III.


From here, drive back across the Nile to the East Bank for afternoon tea, then commence the approximately 3.5-hour drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Luxor, Karnak Temple, Avenue of the Sphinx, Queen Hatshepsut obelisk, Valley of the Kings, tombs of Pharoah Seti I and Tuthankhamen

Note

Please note: This tour includes a long drive (3.5 hours) in each direction to reach the tour destination. It also involves at least 1.5km (0.9 mile) of walking as well as many steps, stairs and inclined paths and ramps. Guests are recommended to wear comfortable clothing and shoes; slippers or sandals are not recommended as the valley of the Kings is quite sandy. Wear and bring sun protection. Video cameras are not allowed inside the Valley of the Kings. Flash is not allowed. No explanation is allowed inside tombs; your Egyptologist will give you full explanation before entering the tombs.