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Esna & El Kab Day Tour From Luxor
Overview
A tour to Esna and El Kab offers an incredible opportunity to explore two lesser-known but historically significant sites located on the West Bank of the Nile, south of Luxor. While not as famous as the Valley of the Kings or Karnak Temple, both Esna and El Kab hold fascinating ancient Egyptian history and unique archaeological remains. Here's a suggested itinerary for a day trip from Luxor to Esna and El Kab.
- Starting Point: Luxor
- Destination: Esan & El cab
- Distance: ~ 60km (approx. 1.5hours by road)
- Departure from hotel in Luxor
- Time: Early morning departure (around 5:00–6:00 AM)
- Mode of Travel: Air-conditioned private vehicle or minibus
- Duration: 5. hours depending on stops
- Stops en route: Short stops for refreshments and restroom
Itinerary
Morning: Departure from Luxor;
Departure Time: 8:00 AM
Duration of Travel: Around 1 hour (for both Esna and El Kab, the sites are located roughly 55 km south of Luxor).
1- Esna – Temple of Khnum .
Overview:
Esna is a small town on the banks of the Nile, known for its Temple of Khnum, a Ptolemaic-era structure dedicated to the ram-headed god Khnum (god of the Nile, water, and fertility
The temple is famous for its well-preserved hypostyle hall with 24 columns, each intricately carved with scenes depicting Khnum and the pharaohs offering gifts to the gods.
2- Drive to El Kab
Departure from Esna: 10:30 AM
Travel Time to El Kab: 20-30 minutes (around 15 km south
3- El Kab – Ancient Nekhet
Overview:
El Kab was the capital of Upper Egypt during the early dynastic period and later served as a significant religious and administrative center during the Middle and New Kingdoms.
The ancient name of the site was Nekheb, and it was dedicated to the vulture goddess Nekhbet, the patroness of Upper Egypt.
lunch break ;
Lunch Break on Your Tour – A Delicious Pause Amidst Ancient Wonders
After a morning filled with history and adventure, it’s time for a well-deserved lunch break on your Egyptian tour. Picture yourself relaxing at a cozy local restaurant, surrounded by the stunning landscapes and rich culture that make Egypt so unique.
The ruins of El Kab include:
The Temple of Nekhbet: A small temple dedicated to the goddess, known for its vulture-headed statues and reliefs.
The Tombs of the Nobles: El Kab is home to several tombs of local officials from the Old Kingdom to the New Kingdom, including high-ranking military and administrative figures.
Inclusions
- Pick up \ drop off
- Professional fluent guide
- Entrance fees
- Mineral water
- Lunch optional
Exclusions
- Tipping
- Personal expenses.