Viking Cruises

Viking Explorer Society News - Issue 29 - Summer 2026

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S U M M E R I S S U E 2 9 viking.com | 31 Journey along the Nile River DAY 5 - QENA Wake before dawn to enjoy an optional excursion soaring over the Valley of the Kings in a hot air balloon. Today's included tour visits Dendera Temple, dedicated to the goddess Hathor. Marvel at the impressive architecture and intricate carvings, reflecting ancient devotion and ingenuity. Relax on the Aquavit Terrace as the sun sets, knowing tomorrow brings more discoveries. DAY 6 - LUXOR Journey to the Nile's west bank to explore the Valley of the Kings, where ancient pharaohs were entombed deep in the hillsides. Today, you can visit several sites, such as the tomb of Tutankhamen (discovered in 1922), Ramses IV and Seti I, among the dozens found within the royal necropolis. Then, venture to the Valley of the Queens to discover the grandeur of the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, one of the world's most remarkable architectural feats. After a day of exploration, return to your ship, which is docked in the centre of town. DAY 7 - ESNA Explore Esna and its temple, dedicated to the god Khnum. Admire its intricate carvings, towering columns, ancient hieroglyphics and its well- preserved Hypostyle Hall. Later, take a guided walking tour through the town. See its 19th-century houses with elaborate mashrabiya and stroll the lively covered market. Enjoy a traditional Egyptian dinner on board tonight and rest well, as Aswan awaits. DAY 8 - ASWAN Today's excursion offers a variety of experiences including a tour to the Aswan Dam, a market visit and a ride in a traditional felucca along the Nile. Or you can choose an optional tour of the Abu Simbel temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is dominated by four colossal statues of Ramses II. Constructed in the 13th century BC and rediscovered in the 19th century, it was relocated from its original location in 1968 during the construction of the Aswan Dam. Enjoy a relaxing evening on board. DAY 9 - ASWAN & KOM OMBO Traverse the Nile by boat to visit a traditional Nubian village. Learn about their culture and lifestyle, and spend time engaging with children at a local school. Then, journey to Agilkia Island to visit the enchanting Philae Temple built to honour Isis. This afternoon, walk right off your ship to explore Kom Ombo, a dual temple dedicated to the gods Sobek and Horus. Return to your ship for an evening at leisure. DAY 10 - EDFU & LUXOR Your day is highlighted by a visit to the well-preserved Edfu Temple, dedicated to the falcon god Horus. Inside, stroll the colonnaded courtyard, view the hieroglyphics and admire the rows of lotus columns. Later, unwind with a cocktail on the Sun Deck, then make sure your bags are packed as you prepare for your return to Cairo. After dinner, enjoy your last night on board. DAY 11 - CAIRO Disembark your ship, fly back to Cairo and check in to your hotel. You have the day at leisure to explore more of Cairo on your own. Or consider an optional tour to discover the winding alleys of Old Cairo and the Coptic Quarter, a UNESCO Site, or a tour to browse exhibits at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation. DAY 12 - CAIRO Bid farewell to your fellow guests and journey home. Or spend more time exploring, perhaps joining one of our extensions. Hatshepsut Temple, Valley of the Kings Nubian Musician, Aswan Temple Statues, Abu Simbel

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