To explore more of Egypt, all you have to do is follow the Nile River, the longest river in the world at 6,695km. From my time with the Pyramids, I headed south towards the town Luxor and Luxor Temple, the biggest ‘open-air museum’ in Egypt. Mainly due to all the archaeological sites and temples it has to offer.
I was keen to see more of this amazing country.
Luxor
Luxor city has two parts. In the East Bank of Luxor, the two surviving ancient monuments, the LUXOR Temple and the KARNAK Temple, surround the city. Then, the West Bank, where the royal tombs of the VALLEY OF THE KINGS and the Valley of the Queens are to be found. Basically THE biggest open air museum.
Remember the time I visited Greece? My whole trip was about visiting historical and monumental sites. So, I am basically doing the same in Egypt. Exploring and learning about the history of Egypt (because I did not really listen back at school). And it is quite fascinating!
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The ‘open-air museum’ – Luxor Temple
I won’t bore you too much with the history of it all, – there is soo much – , but let’s say, there are some stunning sites to see. The size of the temples are just unbelievable. The effort and design that went into building most of Egypts monuments is just incredible! Personally I am a big fan of the engravings and colourful wall art. Especially in the tombs. So much detail in it all!
Lots of it is still unbelievably intact, which makes it even more special. Even today the government and archaeologists are finding new tombs and statues buried in the desert. They are even moving whole villages to allow for the digging. I guess that is why they call it the biggest ‘open-air museum’?!
I love Egypt!
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The land in Egypt is 90% desert and the fertile land for agriculture is clearly visible along the Nile river. Although I won’t make it into the Sahara on this trip, I am amazed by all the different culture and scenery this country has to offer. Visiting the biggest ‘open-air-museum’ and the Luxor Temple was a highlight for sure. There is so much history in Egypt!
There is still a little bit more to explore, so stay tuned on my next ventures. Not to mention that I will be catching up with my dad at the Red Sea for some beach time. – Diving in Hurghada with my Dad.
Travel tip – getting around
Best way to get around in Egypt? By bus, air or train? I flew to Luxor from Cairo as it was the easiest. And I am currently on an ‘express’ train to Aswan (from Luxor). Although I read about lots of issues that might occur travelling as a tourist, I have had none so far. Fingers crossed! Everybody is willing to help and I always give them a small tip for their efforts.
Catching a Cab is also an option! Going in between all the archeological sites, you definitely don’t have to worry about finding a cab. They will find you! And make sure you bargain hard.
In Luxor you can also catch the local ferry to get across the river between the East and the West Bank. It is a different way and quite fun. So, save travels in Egypt! But first, read: My Roundtrip Aswan – Abu Simbel. xx
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