Characterised by its abundance of palm trees and tropical gardens, Aswān is Egypt’s southernmost city. Situated on the east bank of the Nile River, Aswān is the start and end point of many river cruises, it is also the home base for a day trip to Abu Simbel. Interestingly, it is one of the sunniest places on earth, receiving nearly 4,000 hours of sunshine annually and reaching an average of 40°C in the summer.
Located between Aswān and Esna, Edfu is a city rich with history. The Temple of Horus is the main attraction, drawing many travellers and tourists each year. The Temple of Horus is considered to be the best-preserved temple in Egypt - its origin dates back to the Ptolemaic times, meaning the temple we see today is a compilation of many years of construction, additions and inscriptions.
Esna was one of the most prestigious cities during the Roman and Ptolemaic periods and their influence is strongly noted in the city’s temples, including the Temple of Esna. Away from the marvellous architecture, Esna is host to a number of remarkable monuments like Al Baalein and the cemetery of El Muaalla. The city is considered an important commercial centre for its surrounding villages and towns and is a reliable source of goods.
Surrounded by sugar cane fields, Kom Ombo is best known for its temple, which was built during the Graeco-Roman period. Dedicated to Sobek the crocodile god and Horus the falcon-headed god, Kom Ombo Temple combines two temples in one. Stroll through its colonnades to truly capture the ambience of its glorious history.
Luxor (then known as Thebes) was the capital of Egypt during the Dynasty of the New King Kingdom. From the 11th Dynasty, Luxor grew from a small town into a thriving city, well known for its high social status and as a centre for wisdom, art, religious and political hierarchy. Today, things are much the same - Luxor is known as the world’s greatest open-air museum and is the famous home to some of Egypt’s most prominent temples, tombs and monuments, like the Avenue of Sphinxes.
Which cruise lines sail along the Nile River?
