Full Day Tour From Safaga To Dendera And Abydos Temples

Embark on a Private Day Tour of Dendera and Abydos Temples from Safaga Port

Explore the fascinating Temple of Hathor, dedicated to the Goddess of Love, Music, and Healing. Then, journey to Abydos to visit the temple of Osiris. In ancient Egyptian culture, Abydos held immense religious significance, comparable to the importance of Mecca for modern Muslims during their pilgrimage.

ITINERARY

Pickup from Safaga Hotel
Your knowledgeable guide from Zexcursion Tours will pick you up from your Safaga hotel. The excursion to Dendera Temple begins with an anticipated arrival at 08:30.

Dendera Temple
The construction of the Temple of Hathor predominantly occurred during the Late Ptolemaic period, specifically under the reign of Ptolemy XII and Cleopatra VII. Subsequent additions were made during the Roman period. Despite being built by rulers outside of native Egyptian lineage, the temple's design aligns with classical Egyptian temples. An exception is noted in the front of the hypostyle hall, credited to Emperor Tiberius as indicated by an inscription above the entrance.

In addition to its architectural marvel, the temple complex features depictions of Ptolemaic rulers. Notably, a large relief of Cleopatra VII and her co-ruler and son, Ptolemy XV (Caesarion), adorns one of the temple walls. Both rulers are portrayed in Egyptian attire, engaging in sacrificial offerings.

Hathor, revered as a goddess of healing, is commemorated in the temple complex with a sanatorium. Pilgrims sought healing by bathing in sacred water, dispensed unguents by Hathor's priests, and were provided sleeping quarters, anticipating the goddess's appearance in their dreams for aid.

Drive to Abydos from Dendera

Abydos Temple
Recognized as one of Ancient Egypt's paramount archaeological sites, the sacred city of Abydos housed various temples, including Umm el-Qa'ab—a royal necropolis for early pharaohs. Over time, this site gained prominence as a coveted burial ground. Notably, Abydos is renowned for the memorial temple of Seti I, featuring the Abydos King List—a chronological compilation of dynastic pharaohs from Menes to Ramesses I. Unfortunately, the Great Temple and much of the ancient town are obscured beneath modern structures, with some original structures and artifacts considered irretrievable.

Abydos, situated approximately 2.5 hours north of Luxor by car, was a significant religious site for ancient Egyptians. Similar to modern Muslims aspiring to complete a pilgrimage to Mecca, ancient Egyptians aspired to visit Abydos, strongly associating it with the transition into the afterlife.

Although multiple temples were erected at Abydos, the Temple of Seti I stands out as the largest and most significant. Seti I, the father of Ramesses II, prioritized the restoration of faith in the pre-Amarna gods, which Akhenaten sought to eliminate. The temple contains chapels dedicated to major gods, reflecting Seti's commitment to the pantheon. While much of the temple complex is no longer intact, well-preserved wall reliefs, particularly those completed during Seti's reign, are considered among Egypt's finest.

Due to its remote location, Abydos receives fewer visitors compared to other sites. Occasional tour buses may arrive from beach resorts or cruise ships, but a well-timed visit might afford you the opportunity to explore the temple complex in relative solitude.

Lunch in Abydos Temple
Delight in an Egyptian lunch at Abydos Temple, savoring the culinary offerings amid the historical and archaeological wonders.

Return to Safaga
The day concludes with a return journey from Abydos Temple to Hurghada and your cruise in Safaga.

Meals Lunch

Please don't forget to bring:

• Passport
• Camera