Egypt

Upper Egypt

Luxor, Egypt
Aswan, Egypt
Karnak, Egypt
Storia Dahabiya, Luxor

Why visit Upper Egypt

Upper Egypt is the heartland of ancient civilisation and home to some of the most awe-inspiring archaeological treasures in the world. Stretching from Luxor to Aswan, this region offers a deeper and more immersive experience of Egypt’s pharaonic past, away from the bustle of Cairo and the crowds of Giza.

In Luxor, once ancient Thebes, you will find the extraordinary temples of Karnak and Luxor, along with the tombs of the Valley of the Kings and Queens, including that of Tutankhamun. Cross the river to explore lesser-visited sites such as Medinet Habu or the workers’ village of Deir el-Medina, which offers vivid insight into daily life in ancient times.

Further south, Aswan provides a change of pace. It is gentler, warmer and deeply atmospheric. It serves as a gateway to the majestic temples of Philae and Abu Simbel, and to quieter moments such as sailing past river islands on a felucca or visiting a Nubian village.

Travelling through Upper Egypt by dahabiya allows for a slow and considered journey, with stops at temples and villages that are inaccessible to larger vessels. This region rewards unhurried exploration, rich storytelling and a deeper connection to Egypt’s extraordinary past.

 

Medinet Habu, Egypt

Highlights of Upper Egypt

  • The temples of Karnak and Luxor – Walk through vast colonnades and ancient courtyards in what was once the ceremonial heart of pharaonic Thebes.

  • The Valley of the Kings – Descend into elaborately painted tombs, including that of Tutankhamun, set among stark desert cliffs on Luxor’s west bank.

  • Temple of Hatshepsut – Visit one of Egypt’s most architecturally striking temples built into the cliffs to honour the female pharaoh who defied tradition.

  • Sailing the Nile by dahabiya – Drift peacefully between Luxor and Aswan on a traditional sailing boat, stopping at smaller sites larger ships cannot reach.

  • Philae and Abu Simbel – Explore two of Egypt’s most evocative temples, both rescued from rising waters and beautifully preserved on the banks of Lake Nasser.

  • Nubian heritage in Aswan – Discover vibrant local culture through music, food and craft in the villages along the Nile’s southern stretches near the Sudanese border.

Work in progress

The Unfinished Obelisk, in the hills above Aswan, had it been completed, would have been the largest ever carved, weighing over 1,000 tonnes. Abandoned due to a fault in the granite, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient stone-working techniques, with tools still visible in the rock.

 

 

Hand painted houses

In villages around Aswan, Nubian artisans still hand-paint houses in vivid colours and create distinctive pottery, jewellery and woven goods using methods passed down through generations. These living traditions offer a vibrant counterpoint to the region’s ancient monuments.

 

 

Good to know

Getting to Upper Egypt

Travelling from Cairo to Luxor is easy, with multiple daily flights taking just over one hour. Alternatively, the overnight sleeper train offers a comfortable and scenic journey. For those with time, a private road transfer allows for flexible stops en route and insight into Egypt’s changing landscapes and rural life.

 

 

When to go

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OUR FAVOURITE TIME TO VISIT

In November, the temperatures are warm and manageable, the Nile is clear and calm, and the key sites can be explored comfortably during the day, making this the perfect month to be there.

 

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