History and culture in magical Egypt

One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Pyramids of Giza rise from the dust and smog, shining against the horizon of bustling Cairo. Nothing can prepare you for how gargantuan they are. Still shrouded in mystery on how they were constructed 4,500 years ago, it is estimated that over 2.3 million stone blocks were used. 

Egypt’s Pharaohs were expected to become gods after death, so built these elaborate tombs to fill with items to sustain them in the next life. We’ll follow our expert Egyptologist as they guide us through this incredible ancient complex.

Abu Simbel

Even though Abu Simbel is an optional excursion on our Egypt holidays, we think it’s well worth the effort. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built by Pharaoh Ramses II, and carved into the into a rock in southern Egypt's ancient Nubian Valley. The entrance is guarded by four imposing seated Ramses, and it certainly has the wow-factor, even though it has been moved from its original location to Aswan.

Abu Simbel was painstakingly relocated in 1968 as it would have been submerged during the creation of Lake Nasser after the Aswan Dam was constructed.  It is simply breathtaking.

The Valley of the Kings

A royal burial ground for Pharaohs, the awe-inspiring Valley of the Kings lies near Luxor on the Nile’s West Bank. And perhaps the most famous tomb there is that of Tutankhamun, which is still said to be cursed after Howard Carter discovered it in 1912.

Over the centuries, this extraordinary valley has been investigated and combed over by grave robbers, treasure seekers and archaeologists – and it is still thought there are still a few tombs still to be uncovered. Our expert guide will reveal all – and even offer those brave enough the chance to enter King Tut’s tomb…

The Temple of Kom Ombu

Unlike other temples in Egypt, this one is unique as it a double temple built in the Graeco-Roman period and for two different deities. Built to worship the crocodile god Sobek associated with fertility and power, and to worship the Horus, the falcon-headed god of sky, hunting and war, Kom Ombu is special.

Perfectly symmetrical, there are twin entrances, two halls, and twin sanctuaries. We’ll discover why captive crocodiles were kept in their own pool within the temple, and how many mummified crocodiles have been found in the surrounding cemeteries.

If you’d like to find out what other wonderful sights we visit in Egypt, see all our Egypt escorted tours.