Ancient Luxor
Duration: 13 hours
Tour Code: SAF-001
This amazing full day tour to Luxor provides an excellent opportunity for you to see outstanding examples of ancient Egyptian architecture and learn the fascinating mysteries of centuries old culture and hieroglyphics.
Disembarking the ship, you'll board your comfortable motor coach for the drive to Luxor. During the drive, you'll enjoy majestic scenic vistas provided by the vast expanses of desert and barren mountains that are interspersed with areas of surprisingly fertile farmland. Arriving in Luxor, your first stop will be at the Sheraton Hotel where you'll be treated to a lovely buffet lunch. At the conclusion of your luncheon, you'll rejoin your coach and cross the fabulous Nile River, proceeding to the West Bank area for a visit to the Valley of the Kings. It is here you will find the remarkable tombs of Egypt's ancient kings, their families and other Egyptian nobility. Ample time is allotted here for you to fully explore this wonderful site.
Next, it's on to Hatshepsut Temple where there will be a short photo stop. This awesome mortuary temple that was buried under sand for centuries was built by Hatshepsut, the only woman to rule as a Pharaoh. Built into the mountainside, it stands as an incredible monument to the powers held by the pharaohs. A second photo stop follows at the Colossi of Memnon, two massive statues that originally flanked the entrance to Amenhotep III's mortuary temple. Although the temple itself was destroyed in an earthquake and most of its remnants have long since disappeared, these magnificent statues still stand guard today, albeit over an open field.
Your final stop of the day will be at the spectacular Luxor Temple complex. Here, you will find a collection of simply breathtaking statues, obelisks, and temples that date back to the 14th century BC. After a truly unforgettable day immersing yourself in Egypt's mesmerizing ancient history and culture, you'll embark your coach for the relaxing drive back to the ship.
Please note: Travel time to and from Luxor is approximately 3 to 3 1/2 hours each direction. This tour includes a moderate amount of walking and climbing as well as some stairs to negotiate. It may not be considered suitable for wheelchair guests and those with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of ability and stamina. It is recommended that guests wear comfortable walking shoes, lightweight clothing, cap and sunglasses. There are no cameras allowed inside the tombs.