Day 1: LUXOR – ESNA – - EL KAAB -EL HEGZ 1
At the start of the first day, you will head out with your guide to visit the temples of
Karnak, a complex of masterpieces extending over more than 100 hectares. At its
heart lies a huge architectural ensemble called the Great Temple of Amun. It was
each Pharaoh’s dreamt enlarge and redecorate it. During the visit you will mainly focus
on the Temples of Seti II, Ramses III, the Hypostyle Hall with its 134 giant
sandstone columns, the Sacred Lake, and the open-air museum.
You will then cross the Nile through the bridge to reach the Theban Necropolis that lies
on the left bank to enjoy the amazing Valley of the Kings. Your guide will show you
three of the most beautiful tombs open to visitors.
When you leave the Necropolis, you will enjoy a thirty-minute drive in the countryside,
heading towards the South of Luxor to reach the City of Esna, the home port of the
Dahabieh NUBA NILE.
The Dahabieh is a type of river boat specific to
Egypt, as during very early times, travel in
Egypt could only be done by boat because the
Nile floods prevented the establishment of a real
system of roads. The Khedives and kings of
Egypt, such as Khedive Abbas II, built
Dahabieh boats mimicking the old model out of
a passion for sailing on the Nile.
Once you arrive to NUBA NILE, a crew member
will offer you a beautifully rose-scented fresh,
wet towel along with a traditional drink from the
region. This drink called Karkadé is an infusion
of hibiscus flowers. Freshly squeezed lemon juice
with mint will also be offered. Once you have
relaxed, it will be time to settle into the cabins.
The Dahabieh will start sailing along the Nile
while you enjoy your first meal on board.
You will then reach El Kab, a 5000-year-oldcity
built during the periods 747-332 B.C., and
discovered during the Neolithic era El Kab was
the meeting place of Horus and his wife
Hathor, during the feast of "the Beautiful
Union".
Your first afternoon will be spent relaxing while
exploring the vast landscape along the banks of
the river until you stop at El Hegz, where you
will spend your first night on board.
Your dinner will be served on deck with a variety
of Egyptian dishes prepared on board.