Author: Sayed

There is Egypt… and then there is the Egypt few travelers ever see.

This journey takes you far from the usual tourist paths and deep into Middle Egypt, a land of desert cliffs, hidden tombs, forgotten cities, and revolutionary pharaohs. Over two unforgettable days, you’ll walk through Akhenaten’s lost capital, stand inside vividly painted Middle Kingdom tombs, and explore sacred cemeteries where gods were worshipped in animal form.

Day 1 – Luxor to Minya: The City of the Sun God

the adventure begins as you travel north along the Nile Valley. The scenery slowly changes, green fields give way to dramatic desert cliffs, and modern Egypt blends into landscapes that have witnessed thousands of years of history.

Tell el-Amarna – Akhenaten’s Lost Capital

Your first destination is Tell el-Amarna, one of the most fascinating and mysterious archaeological sites in Egypt. Here, Pharaoh Akhenaten built an entirely new capital city dedicated to Aten, the sun disk, in what became one of the boldest religious revolutions in human history.

You’ll explore:

The Amarna Museum
A small but powerful introduction to the Amarna Period, where art, religion, and politics changed forever. Statues, reliefs, and everyday objects reveal a softer, more natural artistic style — a striking contrast to traditional pharaonic art.

The Royal Palace Ruins
As you walk through the remains of the palace where Akhenaten and Queen Nefertiti once lived, your guide brings the city back to life. Imagine open courtyards, painted floors, royal ceremonies under the open sky, and a king who dared to change Egypt’s religion.

The Royal Tombs of Amarna
Carved into the desert cliffs, these tombs were meant for the royal family. Inside, scenes show Akhenaten, Nefertiti, and their daughters worshipping Aten beneath rays of sunlight that end in tiny hands — a symbol unique to this period. The atmosphere is quiet, remote, and deeply moving.

Lunch in Minya, Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch at a local restaurant, offering a taste of Middle Egyptian hospitality.

Tuna el-Gebel – Sacred Cemetery of Thoth

In the afternoon, you visit Tuna el-Gebel, a vast Greco-Roman necropolis that feels like an open-air archaeological playground.

Here you will discover:

  • The Tomb of Petosiris, a masterpiece that blends ancient Egyptian traditions with Greek artistic influence

  • Long underground galleries where thousands of mummified ibises and baboons were buried as sacred animals of Thoth, god of wisdom and writing

It’s a powerful reminder that Egypt’s story did not end with the pharaohs — it evolved, absorbed new cultures, and continued.

Transfer to your hotel in Minya for overnight. Rest well — tomorrow reveals even older secrets.

Day 2 — Cliffs of History & Daily Life of Ancient Egypt

After breakfast, your exploration of Middle Egypt continues.

El Ashmunein (Ancient Hermopolis)

Once a major center of learning and worship, Hermopolis was dedicated to Thoth, god of knowledge. The site reveals colossal statues, temple remains, and layers of history showing how this sacred city changed through pharaonic, Greek, and Roman times.

Nearby, you’ll also see the Basilica of St. Mary, reflecting Egypt’s Christian heritage and the country’s remarkable religious continuity.

Beni Hassan Tombs — Life 4,000 Years Ago

Then comes one of Egypt’s most extraordinary hidden treasures: Beni Hassan tombs, carved high into limestone cliffs overlooking the Nile.

Unlike royal tombs focused on gods and kings, these tombs tell the human story of ancient Egypt.

Inside, vibrant wall paintings show:

  • Wrestling matches and athletic training

  • Military drills and desert expeditions

  • Hunting scenes in the marshes

  • Farming, fishing, and daily work

  • Foreign traders bringing exotic goods

The colors, movement, and realism make these tombs feel alive. It’s like stepping into a 4,000-year-old documentary of Middle Kingdom society.

Lunch & Return to Luxor

After lunch at a local restaurant, you begin the scenic drive back to Luxor, carrying with you stories of a revolutionary pharaoh, sacred animal cemeteries, and cliffside tombs that few travelers ever get to see.

You arrive in Luxor in the evening — richer in knowledge, wonder, and unforgettable memories.

Minya, Tell el-Amarna & Beni Hassan Overnight Tour from Luxor – WOW Tours Egypt

Step aboard a traditional felucca sailboat and discover the Nile the way Egyptians have for thousands of years, carried only by the wind, guided by the rhythm of the river.

Sail on the Nile aboard a feluccathe iconic wooden boat with its graceful white sail dancing in the wind, as you step aboard and settle onto comfortable cushions, the sail catches the breeze, and the city slowly slips away behind you.

This is not just a boat ride. It’s a journey into the heart of Egypt’s living history.

As the felucca glides across the water, Luxor reveals a softer, more peaceful side. On one bank, green fields and palm trees flourish along the fertile edge of the Nile. On the other, desert hills rise golden in the distance, the same landscape that surrounded the pharaohs.

You pass small river islands, fishermen casting their nets, and local boats moving gently across the water. Life along the Nile continues much as it has for centuries, shaped by the same river that gave birth to ancient civilization.

Your guide shares stories of how the Nile governed daily life, agriculture, religion, and trade, not just as a river, but as the lifeline of an empire.

The beauty of a felucca ride is in its simplicity. There is no engine noise, no rush – only the sound of water, wind, and quiet conversation.

Whether you choose to relax in silence, take photos, or simply watch the changing colors of the sky, the experience invites you to slow down and feel connected to nature, to history, and to the timeless flow of the Nile.

If timed near sunset, the sky begins to glow in shades of gold and rose, reflecting across the water in a scene that feels almost unreal.

After a peaceful hour on the river, your felucca returns to the dock. Your guide then escorts you back to your hotel or Nile cruise, leaving you refreshed and carrying one of Luxor’s most serene and memorable experiences.

Rise with the Sun Over the Land of the Pharaohs: The Unforgettable Hot Air Balloon Experience in Luxor

Imagine this: the first light of dawn touches the horizon, painting the sky with hues of gold, rose, and amber. The desert is still, the Nile glimmers in the distance, and the only sound you hear is the gentle breath of the wind. In this sacred moment—when the day is just awakening—you step into a hot air balloon basket, ready to rise above one of the most legendary landscapes on Earth.

Your WOW tours Egypt representative will be waiting for you at the lobby of your hotel or Nile cruise to pick you up to cross the Nile by a motorboat to West Bank of Luxor, then you will be transferred to the takeoff area to start your Balloon ride in the sky of Luxor. (the biggest open-air museum).

For about 45 minutes you will enjoy a panorama view, the Nile with its blue color and the 2 green banks forming the way to the glory of ancient Egypt through the yellow desert.

Welcome to Luxor, the ancient city once known as Thebes—the beating heart of ancient Egypt and home to some of the greatest treasures of human history. But here, the wonders are not only found in stone and hieroglyphs… they are also seen from the sky.

As the balloon lifts gently into the air, a breathtaking panorama unfolds beneath you. To the west, the Valley of the Kings lies in quiet majesty—final resting place of the pharaohs, including the boy king Tutankhamun. The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut emerges from the cliffs like a vision, its terraces glowing in the early morning sun. The Colossi of Memnon, those ancient stone sentinels, gaze eastward as they have for millennia.

The view is nothing short of magical. The fertile lands of the Nile stretch like a green ribbon through the golden sands, dotted with palm groves and sleepy villages that have watched centuries pass. To the east, the temples of Karnak and Luxor stand as silent witnesses to the grandeur of a civilization that once ruled the ancient world.

From high above, you don’t just see Luxor—you feel it. You connect with it. You become part of its timeless story. Floating over the land of gods and kings, you’re offered a rare gift: the same perspective the ancient gods were believed to possess, looking down over their sacred domain.

This is not just a hot air balloon ride. This is a moment of stillness and wonder, a perfect harmony between the sky and the earth, the present and the past. It’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve touched down—a memory woven into the tapestry of your life.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple seeking a romantic escape, a family creating lifetime memories, or a history enthusiast chasing the echoes of ancient worlds – this sunrise balloon journey over Luxor is something truly extraordinary.

Let the winds carry you into the skies above Egypt’s most sacred city. Let the past and present merge in a silent, soaring dance. And let your heart be lifted by beauty, peace, and awe.

Because some places deserve to be seen from above. And some mornings, like this one, deserve to be remembered forever.

A Sacred Journey Beyond Luxor: Discover the Hidden Temples of Abydos and Dendera.

Let’s take you on a sacred journey north of Luxor—far from the beaten path—into the heart of ancient Egyptian spirituality, mystery, and beauty. This is not just a tour; it is a passage through the soul of a civilization. A day that begins in the golden light of the Nile Valley and leads us into two of Egypt’s most awe-inspiring yet often overlooked treasures: the Temple of Seti I at Abydos and the Temple of Hathor at Dendera.

Our first destination is Abydos, one of the oldest and most venerated cities in ancient Egyptian history. Known as the spiritual center of the cult of Osiris—the god of resurrection and eternal life—Abydos was believed to be the gateway to the afterlife, the place where the soul began its eternal journey. For thousands of years, pharaohs and pilgrims alike made their way here to pay homage, to leave offerings, and to seek favor in the world beyond.

The crown jewel of Abydos is the Temple of Seti I, a masterpiece of New Kingdom architecture that remains one of the most artistically refined temples in all of Egypt. Here, the walls come alive with intricate, high-relief carvings still glowing with original color, telling stories of gods and kings with an elegance rarely seen elsewhere.

One of the temple’s most mysterious features is Abydos King List, an extraordinary chronological list of 76 ancient pharaohs, carved with care as a legacy for eternity. Historians and Egyptologists still study this list today as a crucial key to understanding Egypt’s royal lineage.

But perhaps most magical is the atmosphere. Abydos is serene, powerful, and deeply spiritual. As you walk through its quiet halls, it feels less like a museum and more like a place still alive with ancient energy—a portal into another time, another world.

Next, we travel to Dendera, where one of the most beautifully preserved temple complexes in all of Egypt awaits you. Dedicated to Hathor, goddess of love, beauty, music, fertility, and joy, the Temple of Hathor at Dendera is both graceful and grand—a sanctuary filled with celestial symbolism and divine artistry.

This is a place where astronomy, spirituality, and art meet. The massive hypostyle hall features towering columns crowned with the serene face of Hathor, looking down with timeless grace. Above you, a spectacular astronomical ceiling reveals an ancient zodiac, stars, and constellations once used to track the movements of the heavens. It’s not just architecture—it’s a cosmic map, painted by the hands of ancient priests and astronomers.

You can even descend into the temple’s mysterious underground crypts, where sacred reliefs cover the walls—scenes of ritual, myth, and ancient technology that continue to stir the imagination of scholars and travelers alike.

Dendera also offers a rare glimpse into Greco-Roman influences in Egypt, blending pharaonic and classical art into one magnificent expression of sacred beauty. And unlike many temples in Egypt, you’ll find much of Dendera still intact—its ceilings, carvings, and colors preserved by the sands and shadows of time.

A Day of Discovery, Spirituality, and Wonder

This tour is a journey for the curious, the spiritual, and the seekers of the extraordinary. It’s for travelers who want to go beyond the ordinary and touch the essence of ancient Egypt—not just its monuments, but its soul.

You’ll travel in comfort from Luxor, passing through rural villages and open landscapes where the rhythm of the Nile still shapes daily life. Along the way, we’ll share stories of the gods, the kings, and the forgotten rituals that shaped these sacred places. You’ll stand where ancient pilgrims stood, gaze upon walls where the past is still written, and leave with more than photos—you’ll take with you a memory of something deeper, something eternal.

So, come. Step away from the crowds and into the heart of ancient Egypt’s sacred path. Abydos and Dendera are not just destinations—they are experiences waiting to awaken your spirit and imagination.

Alexandria: The City Where Time Whispers Through the Sea Breeze

Nestled on the shimmering edge of the Mediterranean Sea, Alexandria is not just a city—it’s a living legend. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, this coastal jewel of Egypt is where ancient glory meets modern charm, and where every cobbled street and crumbling stone carries the weight of centuries past. Unlike any other place in Egypt, Alexandria offers an entirely different rhythm—softer, cooler, poetic—a city where the sky seems to stretch endlessly over turquoise waves, and history sleeps beneath the sands and sea.

Wander through Alexandriaand you’ll feel the soul of Cleopatra drifting through the salty air, hear the echoes of philosophers who once debated in the great Library of Alexandria, and see the ruins of empires that rose and fell at the water’s edge. This was the cultural beacon of the ancient world—a melting pot where Greek, Roman, Egyptian, and later Arab civilizations collided and intertwined. Today, that same cosmopolitan spirit lives on in its architecture, its cuisine, and its people.

Start your journey at the iconic Qaitbay Citadel, standing proudly where the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria once lit the way for travelers across the world—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, now lost to time. Just steps away, you can stroll along the Corniche, Alexandria’s scenic waterfront, where fishermen still cast their nets and couples sip coffee under the whisper of the sea breeze.

No visit is complete without stepping into the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a tribute to the ancient library that once held the knowledge of the known world. With its futuristic design and vast collections, it invites scholars, dreamers, and explorers from around the globe to dive into the endless pursuit of learning.

Then there’s the underground world—the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages, where Roman, Greek, and Egyptian motifs blend in eerie harmony. Or visit the Roman Amphitheatre, still echoing the footsteps of ancient audiences, now bathed in soft Mediterranean light.

Alexandria isn’t only about the past. It’s a city of art, seafood feasts, narrow alleys filled with antique shops, and charming cafés where time seems to slow down. It’s where you’ll hear old songs playing on vintage radios and find fresh-baked feteer and ice cream on every corner. It’s a city that invites you not to rush, but to feel—to watch the waves, to breathe in the stories, and to let yourself fall under its spell.

Whether you’re a history lover, a romantic soul, or just a curious traveler looking for something different, Alexandria will surprise you.

It’s Egypt, yes—but with a scent of the sea, a taste of Greece, a memory of Rome, and a heart that’s eternally Alexandrian.

Welcome to Sharm El Sheikh, a sun-drenched gem on the southern tip of Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, where the enchanting waters of Red Sea meet the rugged beauty of the desert. Known as the “City of Peace” due to its international diplomacy efforts, Sharm El Sheikh is more than just a coastal city; it’s a world-renowned destination that captivates visitors with its dazzling coral reefs, vibrant nightlife, and luxurious resorts. Whether you’re drawn by the promise of underwater adventures, breathtaking natural landscapes, or the allure of a city that never sleeps, Sharm El Sheikh offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Sharm El Sheikh is uniquely positioned at the meeting point of Asia and Africa, offering stunning panoramic views over the Gulf of Aqaba and the Gulf of Suez. This proximity to both the mountainous Sinai desert and Red Sea creates a diverse landscape that’s perfect for those seeking both relaxation and adrenaline-pumping activities. What sets Sharm El Sheikh apart is its incredible underwater ecosystem, making it one of the world’s premier diving and snorkeling destinations. Ras Mohammed National Park, located just a short boat ride away, is home to some of the most breathtaking coral reefs and marine life you’ll ever encounter, with thousands of species of colorful fish, turtles, and even dolphins that make every dive feel like an underwater safari.

Beyond the underwater allure, Sharm El Sheikh is famous for its thriving nightlife and entertainment options, ranging from beach parties and open-air concerts to bustling markets. Naama Bay, with its palm-lined promenade, is the beating heart of the city’s social scene, filled with international restaurants, lively bars, and bustling shops. For a taste of luxury, the resort areas of Sharks Bay and Soho Square offer world-class amenities and exclusive dining experiences.

And for those looking to explore further, Sharm El Sheikh provides easy access to some of Egypt’s most iconic sites, including St. Catherine’s Monastery and Mount Sinai. This ancient monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, sits at the foot of Mount Sinai, where you can embark on an early morning hike to catch an awe-inspiring sunrise from the summit, a moment treasured by visitors from around the world.

In Sharm El Sheikh, every sunrise promises new adventures, and every sunset brings unforgettable memories. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a beach lover, or a history enthusiast, Sharm El Sheikh has something for everyone. This vibrant city is a paradise waiting to be discovered—an open invitation to explore the stunning landscapes, dive into crystal-clear waters, and immerse yourself in the unique spirit of Egypt’s “City of Peace.”

Alexandria, situated on the Mediterranean coast of Egypt, is the country’s second-largest city and a major economic hub. Half of Egypt’s industrial production comes from the delta, mainly from Alexandria. Additionally, Alexandria is home to several major commercial ports such as El Diekhila, Abu Quir, Idku and Damietta.

The city’s strategic location has played a vital role in its development, with the Mediterranean coast serving as an important gateway for trade and commerce. The region is divided into four main areas, with the northwestern coastal region extending from Sallum to Alexandria  being particularly noteworthy. Alexandria  has a rich history and is considered an ancient centre of Egyptian civilization.

In the second half of the 19th century, Alexandria emerged as a critical hub for foreign capital organizing cotton production and exportation. Ever since, it has remained a major passageway for flows of capital, commodities and people. The Nile Delta, which has its apex near Cairo and extends to the Mediterranean coastline of Alexandria to Port Said, is another significant area located in close proximity to the city. This region is what makes Alexandria a prominent agricultural land, as it stands as the most productive agricultural area in Egypt. The Nile Delta and the Mediterranean coast account for up to 30%-40% of Egypt’s total agricultural production, with Alexandria being its epicenter. Moreover, the city of Alexandria concentrates approximately 40% of Egypt’s industrial activities and houses two of its largest ports, which play a crucial role in the import and export of goods. Situated in a strategic location along the Mediterranean coast of Egypt, Alexandria is an economically significant city and major hub for trade and commerce. The city owes its prominence to its strategic location, which has allowed it to flourish as a commercial and economic center.

 

What you should know before you travel to Egypt

WOW TOURS EGYPT team has put together the following useful pre-tour/holiday information. While we appreciate that you are about to have a holiday full of adventure, it seems a good idea to arm yourself with a little further information, and so you can gain the most enjoyment from this fascinating country!

Although we aren’t trying to compete with other travel guides- we can tell that you will find some information highlighted both useful and enlightening.

Egypt

 

  • Full country name:- Arab Republic of Egypt
  • Name in Arabic: – Msr “مصر “.
  • Area:- 1 Million km.
  • Population:-105 million.
  • Capital city: – Cairo.
  • Main language: – Arabic.
  • Religion: – 90 % Muslim – 10 % Coptic Christian.
  • Government: – Republic.
  • President:- Abd el Fattah el sisi.

Geographical area

Egypt is one million square kilometers in size. 90 % of population occupies just 10% of the total area. This inhabited land known as Nile Delta and Nile valley which are good for sustaining cultivated crops.

Time zone

Egypt is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

Daylight saving time is also noticed at the beginning of May ending in September.

Power

220volts. Sockets are of the European, 2 pronged varieties. Be sure to pack a power adopter

Weather

Mainly hot and dry. Temperature exceeds 40 degrees up to 50 degrees.- During summer (from May to September).

From late November to February temperatures range from 20 -25 degrees on the Mediterranean cost to 28 -30 degrees in Aswan in the south

During winter nights, temperatures can plummet to 10 degrees on the north cost and Cairo. In the desert and mountains of Sinai, days are scorching hot, but bitterly cold at night.

Alexandria in the north receives the most rain while Aswan in the south almost no rain.

Food and Meals

Egyptian food is essentially similar to Turkish, Lebanese and Persian food with a big accent on a legume called locally “foul”. It’s fava beans and they are served in a variety of ways including- fried- called “Falafel”, also served with houmous and fresh pita bread. Another Egyptian dish “Kushari” is a mix of macaroni, rice, fried onion and black lentils seasoned and served with a generous dollop of spiced tomato sauce. It’s very delicious and inexpensive.

“Kofta” is a seasoned char grilled beef torpedo shaped fragment is also very delicious. Vegetarians are well catered for. Rice, pulses and breads are served in abundance, as are fresh fruit and vegetables. The local fruit juices especially freshly squeezed Mango juice is number 1.

McDonalds, KFC and the like are well spread all over Egypt. So if you miss the comforts of “home” cooking, these are also an option! Sometimes we aren’t always able to break at appropriate time for brunch or lunch, so it is suggested that you carry a few snacks.

Snack food –western or traditional peanuts, crisps, cookies, pita bread, soft drinks and other portable food stuff are widely available at many shops around the cities you visit all over Egypt.

Toilets and facilities

Pack some toilet paper and anti-bacterial wipes for your own comfort. There will be always western toilet facilities near tourist sites. If you go for a walk, it’s an excellent to use the rest room inside the western-style fast food, the malls and for sure the 5 * Hotels.

Hurghada is Founded only in the early 20th century, Hurghada has been seen since the 1980s an enormous boom in tourist development by American, European, Arab and Egyptian companies to make it the Red sea coast’s leading tourist resort.

Hurghada has Beaches front 20 km (12 miles) of holiday villages and first- rate hotels, which provide excellent water sports facilities for wind- surfing, sailing, deep- sea fishing, snorkeling and diving.

in Hurghada  The sports and leisure facilities here match the quality of the superb fine sandy beaches. The resort’s position makes it a dream location for snorkeling and scuba diving – with expert on – the- spot training for beginners. Glass- bottom boats let non- swimmers share in some of the fun.

in Hurghada Safaris into the desert hinterland are organized by jeep or camel. The Aquarium at Ad-Dahar gives you a first glimpse of the tropical fish to be seen before going out to join them in the sea.

Recommended Tours:-

Submarine Tour in Hurghada

Snorkeling Tour to Giftun Island

Snorkeling Day tour at Mahmya Island from Hurghada

Luxor Day Tour from Hurghada by Car

Hurghada Bedouin Desert Safari by Jeep 4×4

https://wowtoursegypt.com/tours/cairo-overnight-tour-from-hurghada-by-flight/

Cairo day tour from Hurghada by flight

https://wowtoursegypt.com/tours/2-days-cairo-and-luxor-tour-from-hurghada/

Alf Leila Wa Leila Show in Hurghada

Desert Safari by a Quad Bike

Determined by the course of the Nile. The southern part of the country is known as Upper Egypt – the northern region from Cairo to the Mediterranean comprising Lower Egypt. At its heart are Luxor and Karnak, which together formed Thebes, modern name Luxor, the national capital at the height of the empire, around 1500 BC.

Luxor the heart of Egypt. Luxor is located 500 Km south of Cairo about 7 hours’ drive.

Here are the great temples. A cross the Nile on the west bank, carved out of the rock in the valley of the kings, are the tombs of the pharaohs, where the treasure of king Tutankhamun was discovered.

Excursions north and south of Luxor take you to other major sanctuaries built by the pharaohs

Once you are in Luxor. First you see the great avenue of sphinxes linking the 2 Temples “Luxor Temple and Karnak Temple” 2 miles processional walking way with more than5000 sphinxes a body of lion and a head of man, you can take a quick photo, then proceed to the famous Karnak Temples; the largest place of worship ever built and the greatest example of worship in history. It has been built over than 2000 years. Great complex of Temples dedicated to the main God of Egypt (Imn – R’).

Have Lunch at local restaurant, then visit Luxor Temple one of the most beautiful and preserved temples in Egypt dated back 1500 B C. It was built by Amenhotep III in 18th Dynasty in the New Kingdom and was completed by Ramses II during the 19th Dynasty.

West Bank of Luxor you can visit the two colossal statues of Amenhotep III Known as (Colossi of Memnon), Then visit The Valley of the Kingswhere the magnificent tombs of the ancient Egyptian kings were discovered, those tombs were curved deep into the desert rock, richly decorated and filled with treasures for the afterlife of the pharaohs. (Not included Tutankhamen tomb). Continue the tour to visit Hatshepsut Temple Known as El Deir El Bahary, this impressive temple dedicated to the Queen Hatshepsut, the most powerful woman to rule Egypt.

Recommended Tours:-

Luxor Day tour from Cairo by Flight

Luxor overnight tour from Cairo by Flight

Luxor Layover Tour from Luxor Airport

Sound and Light Show at Karnak Temples.

Luxor Day Tour from Aswan