EGYPT: JOURNEY THROUGH ANTIQUITY
A JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY AND AWAKENING
A Personal Journey Through Ancient Egypt
Egypt: Journey Through Antiquity
In September 2004, I travelled alone to Egypt, beginning a nineteen-day journey through a land I had long wanted to experience for myself.
What began as a journey to the great monuments of antiquity gradually became something more. From the pyramids of Giza and the temples along the Nile to quiet moments far removed from the crowds, Egypt became part of a much larger journey of discovery and awakening.
Egypt: Journey Through Antiquity tells the story of that journey through my experiences, reflections, and photographs taken along the way.
The Journey
The journey began in Cairo, where the pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx offered my first encounter with the ancient world. From there, I travelled to Alexandria before returning to Cairo and continuing south by train to Luxor.
Over the days that followed, the journey carried me along the Nile, through the temples of Luxor and Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, Aswan and Abu Simbel, and later through Middle Egypt before returning once more to Cairo and the pyramids.
The photographs that follow are drawn from that journey. They offer a visual companion to the story told in the book and a glimpse of Egypt as I experienced it in September 2004.
Photographs from the Journey
Days 1–2 — Arrival in Cairo and the Giza Pyramids
I land in Cairo and check into the Cosmopolitan Hotel.
Driving from my hotel in Cairo to the Pyramids of Giza. Hired a guide and driver through the hotel.
Driving from my hotel in Cairo to the Pyramids of Giza. My guide says this makes a good picture?
Driving our way through Giza to the pyramids.
My first close-up view of the Great Pyramid. This is the northern face. Later today I enter here and climb up into the King’s Chamber.
Many people near the Great Pyramid this afternoon.
People from all over the world. Today many are from Eastern Europe.
The Author. Many security guards in the area, they will let you know if you climb too high up the pyramid.
Security guard near the 3 Pyramids of Giza.
Driving up to a viewpoint overlooking the pyramids. The center pyramid still has some of its outer casing at the top, which the other two do not.
The smallest of 3 pyramids from the view point.
I pose again for my guide. He wouldn't take a picture until I put my hand up.
The Sphinx is very close to the eastern side of the Giza pyramid complex. The center pyramid is in the background.
Many tourists trying to get their picture taken in front of the Sphinx.
From the Sphinx I zoom in slightly to take a picture of modern tourism along side the antiquity of Egypt.
This is as close as we are allowed to the Sphinx. Restoration is underway.
No guard railing along the edge. Easy to fall in if you’re not careful.
Again, many people trying to take their picture with the Sphinx.
The Sphinx faces generally east. The rising sun is in front of it around the equinoxes. The Great Pyramid is in the background.
A view to the South West from the view point of the Sphinx.
I was tired after a long day. I was still getting use to the jet lag but it didn't hamper my spirits.
Attended a dinner and dance show this evening. I get to dance with the belly dancer for a short while.
Dinner and dance show was on a boat going down the Nile.
Day 3 — Day Trip to Alexandria
Mahmoud, my driver who I called Rambo. I felt safe in his presence. We stop for an Egyptian coffee and car wash along the way.
Alexandria - My driver and I head up to Alexandria, about a 3 hour drive North of Cairo. A young boy hitching a ride.
Alexandria - View of streets in Alexandria as we drive around.
Alexandria - Streets of Alexandria.
Alexandria - Police direct traffic throughout the city.
Alexandria - One of many tour companies in Egypt.
Alexandria - Pompey’s Pillar – A stop on my tour of Alexandria.
Alexandria - Pompey’s Pillar - Old ruins with the modern- day buildings around it.
Alexandria - Pompey’s Pillar – One of the statues.
Alexandria - Pompey’s Pillar – The modern buildings are not in much better shape than the antiquity they are built around.
Alexandria - Pompey’s Pillar – Nice garden setting nearby.
Alexandria - Castle built from the ruins of an ancient lighthouse that once stood just off shore.
Alexandria - Another view of Castle.
Alexandria - Another view of the Castle that is along the coast line in Alexandria.
Alexandria - Mediterranean Coast at Alexandria.
Alexandria - Corniche (Walking path) along the beach in Alexandria.
Alexandria - A view facing to the West along the coast line in Alexandria showing the cement blocks that help with erosion.
Alexandria - Local boys enjoying a favorite pastime.
Alexandria – Graeco-Roman Museum. Pictures are allowed.
Alexandria - Graeco-Roman Museum - Guard takes my picture then wants a tip!
Alexandria - Graeco-Roman Museum - Lots on display.
Another stop in Alexandria – Cathedral.
Day 4 — Egyptian Museum and Meeting the Tour Group
Egyptian Museum – First view of Museum. It took me a long time to cross this street. Traffic doesn’t yield too well to pedestrians even at the designated crosswalks.
Egyptian Museum – Near front entrance.
Egyptian Museum – Museum entrance – Strictly no pictures allowed inside. Security was tight and lockers were available to hold cameras.
Egyptian Museum – To the side of the front entrance.
Egyptian Museum – View of the front from the steps of the Museum.
Egyptian Museum – View of area in front of Museum.
Egyptian Museum – View from the Museum.
Egyptian Museum – View from the Museum.
Walking back to the hotel from the Egyptian Museum.
Large roundabout on my walk back to the hotel.
Views from my walk to the hotel from the Museum.
Views from my walk to the hotel from the Museum.
Day 5 — Giza Pyramids and Museum with the Tour Group
The start of my tour (Explorer) with group. Going over the Nile on the way to the Pyramids of Giza.
A view on our way to Giza and the pyramids from Cairo.
The valley along the Nile. All of it is irrigated due to the little rainfall in this area.
First view of the pyramids this morning.
The bus parks on the South side of the Great Pyramid. We have one hour on our own to walk around.
One of the many guards in the area. They did not like a picture being taken of them.
Western side of the pyramid is shaded in the morning.
North face of the Great Pyramid entrance. Our group doesn’t have tickets to go in as they’re hard to get. Good thing I got in the other day.
Part way up the Northern wall.
The guards let you know if you climb too high.
A view of the middle pyramid.
A wooden boat was found buried at the foot of the Great Pyramid and is now housed inside this room.
A view from the base of Great Pyramid which is situated farthest to the North. Looking to the South West.
A view from the middle pyramid looking North East at the Great Pyramid.
We drive west to the viewing area.
Many merchants in this area trying to sell you merchandise.
Many shops are set up in the viewing area.
The local people are trying to get our attention to have a camel ride.
Cairo and Giza are in the distance behind me and the pyramids.
Coming up to the third and smallest of the three main Giza pyramids.
Northern face of the small pyramid. The opening was created by earlier explorers.
Entrance into small pyramid.
Many experts believe that the pyramids were covered with these stones. They have fallen away over the years but a few are still intact on the small pyramid.
Earthquakes and later civilizations moved the blocks away. It appears that many have been taken away and used for housing.
A view of Cairo from the East side of the small pyramid.
Middle pyramid. Some of its outer casing is still intact at the top.
The Sphinx. A view from the South West corner looking generally to the East.
The Sphinx was once buried up to its neck in sand, with only its head visible. It was excavated and cleared in stages over many years.
No tourists are allowed down by the Sphinx.
At the Egyptian Museum with my group. Absolutely no pictures allowed to be taken inside.
Another hot day in Cairo. A group member insists on taking my picture.
Security is extremely high at the museum; no cameras are allowed. There are lockers available to hold them while you go inside.
Day 6 — Train to Luxor and Boarding the Nile Riverboat
Waiting for our train going down to Luxor.
A view from the train.
We stay in the Nile Valley for the entire nine-hour trip down to Luxor.
A typical view as we travel through many small towns.
In Luxor now, riding a caleche over to our riverboat.
Caleche rides can be found everywhere. For a few dollars you could go almost anywhere in Luxor.
On our river boat called Doma.
Our first view of the corniche along the Nile in Luxor near our river boat.
The main street in Luxor along the corniche.
A view to the West side of the Nile from our boat which is anchored on the East bank.
Doma is not a big boat but the pool is big enough to keep us cool.
Small boats used to take us back and forth across the Nile over the next few days.
Great sunsets along the Nile.
Day 7 — Hot Air Balloon Ride, Luxor Temple and Karnak
Up early this morning for a hot air balloon ride. The balloons try to lift off just before sunrise.
The cost of the balloon ride was extra. $1035.00 Egyptian pounds or about $180.00 USD at the time.
The water and fuel are moved around by children.
The balloons are held back with trucks so they don’t get away from them.
First group is off just before sunrise. Baskets hold up to 20 people.
The balloon that I’m on is just taking off.
We lift off just as the sun rises. We were delayed a little on our lift off but it was done safely.
Great views this morning.
Our first good view of Hatshepsut.
The ridge above Hatshepsut Temple is our destination for tomorrow’s donkey ride.
Everything growing in the Nile Valley is irrigated all year.
Our Captain at the controls. He did a very good job.
He was in control for the entire trip.
We stay close to the ground; it would only take a slight breeze to take us off course if we go up too soon.
The variety of crops grown is endless with the abundance of sunshine and heat.
The last rainfall in Luxor was four years ago, according to what we were told, with about a quarter of an inch falling that day.
Another great view.
Many balloons around this morning. Looking to the East towards the Nile.
Looking to the West with the Nile behind me.
Our balloon's shadow.
The pollution hangs in the air every day.
We land smooth and safely.
The captain and I.
All the helpers get the women to do a dance with music playing loudly in the background.
Luxor Temple is right across the street from our river boat.
After breakfast, I visit Luxor Temple just across the street from the Doma for an additional 20 Egyptian Pounds, about $3.50 USD.
North side of Luxor Temple area.
Luxor Temple. Unbelievable carvings made so long ago.
Luxor Temple. Obelisk standing perfectly straight and the carvings look like they could have been made yesterday.
Inside the Luxor Temple area.
Luxor Temple. These pillars line up perfectly.
Luxor Temple. Worker keeping watch on the tourists.
Courtyard in the center of Luxor Temple.
Luxor Temple. Another view of the North entrance.
Back on a caleesh going over to the Karnak Temple.
Our whole group goes over by caleche to the Karnak Temple.
Roads shared by all.
The first view of Karnak Temple. Much of the damage has accumulated over many centuries.
Going into Karnak from the South entrance.
Karnak Temple. Lots of people today.
Karnak Temple. One of the few left almost intact.
Karnak Temple. Massive columns in alignment.
Karnak Temple. Carvings go right to the top.
Karnak Temple. Some destruction from previous eras.
Karnak Temple. A roof may once have covered all this. Only speculation.
Karnak Temple. The damage seen on the columns comes from being buried in sand for a long time.
Karnak Temple. We were told that marks high above our heads were made by soldiers sharpening their blades. Sand once filled this area.
Karnak Temple. Carvings well above us.
Karnak Temple. Some restoration going on in other areas.
Karnak Temple – Some of the ceiling is in place looking like the stars.
Karnak Temple. Many carvings.
Karnak Temple. Much detail in the carvings.
Karnak Temple. Some of the paint is still visible.
Karnak Temple. Outstretched wings of birds are common.
Karnak Temple. Near the North end of the temple.
Karnak Temple. So many try to figure out what it all means.
Karnak Temple. A fallen obelisk for closer viewing.
Karnak Temple. A large pool that can be replenished from the Nile.
Our boat is anchored on the East side of the Nile in Luxor.
Walkway of the Doma goes into the lobby area.
The corniche along the Nile near our boat.
Some of the local people. Children come running over for a tip after I take this picture.
The corniche being unusually empty.
Some of the streets in Luxor.
Day 8 — Donkey Ride to the Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut
Donkey ride to Valley of Kings – We are on our way starting near the Nile River on the western side.
Donkey ride to Valley of the Kings – A view along the way from the donkey.
Donkey ride to Valley of the Kings – On our way up the mountain.
Donkey ride to Valley of the Kings - Our tour leader is in the front. Hard to take pictures from the donkey.
Donkey ride to Valley of the Kings – Another hot morning.
Donkey ride to Valley of the Kings – We stop for a rest.
Donkey ride to Valley of the Kings – I decide to name my donkey Silver.
Valley of the Kings – Our first view of the Valley of the Kings.
Valley of the Kings – Too steep for us to be on the donkeys. The last bit is done on foot.
Valley of the Kings – Great view on the way down.
Valley of the Kings – Restoration still going on. The old ways are still evident.
Valley of the Kings – No photos were allowed in or around the tombs. We are now starting our hike back over the mountain to Hatshepsut.
Hike to Hatshepsut – We are rewarded with some great views on our hike over the mountain.
Hike to Hatshepsut – The ridge where the people are standing is the route we took with the donkeys earlier.
Hike to Hatshepsut – Our first view of Hatshepsut on our hike.
Hike to Hatshepsut – Near the end of our hike.
Hike to Hatshepsut – Standing near the entrance area.
Hatshepsut – Up on the second level.
Hatshepsut – This ramp has been reconstructed, it’s not the original.
Donkey ride back to the Nile – We’re back on our donkeys heading back to where we started.
Donkey ride back to the Nile – Many kinds of transportation share the roads.
We are back on the boat having a small party. They call it a Fancy Dress Party, but most of us don’t really dress up.
Day 9 — Along the Nile: Edfu and Kom Ombo
River boat on the Nile – Early morning on the Nile. We went through a lock last night and we’re still on the move this morning.
River boat on the Nile – The other boats pass us all day.
River boat on the Nile – There are a lot of factories along the Nile.
River boat on the Nile – People are out early for fishing.
River boat on the Nile – Just before sunrise, another clear morning.
River boat on the Nile – No wind this morning.
River boat on the Nile – Our captain had to steer around many of the low areas in the Nile.
River boat on the Nile – There doesn’t appear to be much for pollution control in many of the factories.
River boat on the Nile – Edfu – Our first stop for today is Edfu. Many other boats are at shore with the passengers viewing the temples.
Edfu – No sign of the taxi we booked to pick us up, it was only a 15 minute walk to the temples.
Edfu – Vegetable stand along the way.
Edfu – Plenty of merchandise to purchase along the way.
Edfu – Southern entrance into Edfu.
Edfu – Entrance price was 20 pounds ($3 USD) which was included.
Edfu – Inside the temple area.
Edfu – Another perfect morning.
Edfu – I'm tanding near the center. The pillars went around 3 sides with the main South wall being solid.
River boat on the Nile – Edfu – Another view.
Edfu – Looking to the West from Edfu.
River boat on the Nile – On our way again going further up the Nile at about noon.
River boat on the Nile – Many small boats fishing along the Nile.
River boat on the Nile – The children along the banks were always happy to wave to us.
River boat on the Nile – Going through some areas that are not so populated.
River boat on the Nile – Many river boats going along the Nile taking tourists to the temples and other areas. They seem to pass us all day.
: River boat on the Nile – Some areas along the Nile are not so fertile, with the hills rising near the river’s edge.
River boat on the Nile – Some marshland.
River boat on the Nile – More local fishers.
River boat on the Nile – The cattle and people live close together.
River boat on the Nile – We are being passed again; our Doma is one of the slower boats on the river.
River boat on the Nile – Tending the cattle.
River boat on the Nile – Always willing to wave at us.
River boat on the Nile – They are getting ready for some serious fishing.
River boat on the Nile – Small town along the way.
River boat on the Nile – Not sure what’s happening here.
River boat on the Nile – Another temple area for viewing. We did not stop at this one.
River boat on the Nile – Many feluccas along the Nile.
River boat on the Nile – Coming into shore slowly for our next stop, temples of Kom Ombo.
Kom Ombo – Buildings in the background were built well after Kom Ombo, a vast contrast in construction.
Kom Ombo – The details seemed to be preserved better than many of the other temples.
Kom Ombo – Many carvings.
Kom Ombo – Temple side facing West.
Kom Ombo – Great detail in the carvings.
Kom Ombo – Sun was just right for many of the pictures this afternoon.
Kom Ombo – Much damage over the years.
Kom Ombo
Kom Ombo – I have the pleasure to see these temples as the sun was setting, the temples seemed to take on a different glow.
Kom Ombo – Our tour leader for the first part of this tour. Wael, an Egyptian.
Day 10 — Abu Simbel and Aswan
Abu Simbel – Up early this morning for a drive to Abu Simbel. Lake Nasser was created by the construction of the Aswan High Dam.
Abu Simbel – First view of Abu Simbel. The temples were relocated in the 1960s to save them from the rising waters created by the Aswan High Dam.
Abu Simbel – The construction of the dam would have submerged the temples. They were moved and reconstructed on higher ground.
Abu Simbel – Too many people today making it crowded inside. No pictures were allowed inside the temple.
Abu Simbel – Unbelievable detail.
Abu Simbel – Most of the destruction came from earthquakes. The entrance leads to the inner chambers.
Abu Simbel – Moving all of this in the 1960s took an extraordinary amount of careful planning.
Abu Simbel – Other temples off to the side of Abu Simbel.
Abu Simbel – The other temple is not too far from Abu Simbel.
We are driving back to Aswan. We are off the boat “Doma” and will be checking into a room in Aswan.
Nothing but desert for the three-hour bus ride back to Aswan.
Aswan – Our group is sitting at the Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan watching the sun set.
Aswan – All the group is here to have high tea.
Aswan – High tea is an additional cost of 55 pounds or $10.00 USD. My friends from the UK assured me it was worth it.
Aswan – We had excellent service.
Aswan – Very peaceful in Aswan compared to the other parts of Egypt we have visited so far.
Aswan – Feluccas are for rent and are plentiful in front of the hotel.
Drinking my tea with my new friends from the tour group.
Day 11 — Camel Ride, High Dam, Temple of Philae and Nubian Dinner
Camel ride – Getting ready to cross the Nile for our camel ride.
Camel ride – Unusual rock formations in Aswan.
Camel ride – A boat just like the one we are in now.
Camel ride – The rocks look like they could be man-made, but they tell me it’s a natural formation.
Camel ride – Heading to the West side of the Nile.
Camel ride – On our camels. Camel ride was an additional 60 pounds or $10 USD.
Camel ride – About a forty-five minute ride, with each one of us having our own guide to lead us along in case of trouble.
Camel ride – The Monastery just ahead is our destination.
Camel ride – Enjoying my first camel ride.
Camel ride – View from the Monastery.
Camel ride – The Monastery was used not too long ago.
Camel ride – Another perfectly clear day.
Camel ride – Before the High Dam was built, the Nile would come close to the Monastery during the flood season.
Camel ride – This is where we came up with the camels.
Camel ride – Our visit of the Monastery is done and we are getting back on our camels.
Camel ride – My guide was always in front of me.
Camel ride – It was a 10 minute ride back to the Nile.
Camel ride – The Nile is broken up into cataracts at Aswan and some areas have very slow moving water.
Camel ride – Walking back to our small boat for a ride back across the Nile.
Camel ride – Leaving the West bank of the Nile.
Going through the cataracts of Aswan.
A felucca on the Nile.
Many great views this morning.
Livestock graze wherever they can.
Old Cataract Hotel, our place of high tea yesterday.
A restaurant near the hotel.
Rooms at the Old Cataract Hotel are about $300 USD per night.
Our table area from where we sat yesterday.
Rock formations along the Nile.
High Dam Tour – The start of our tour.
High Dam Tour – Built about 50 years ago.
High Dam Tour – On top of the dam at the visitors’ center.
High Dam Tour – Statistics of the power generated by the High Dam.
Temple of Philae tour – Off to the temple that’s on its own island. High Dam tour along with Philae costs 50 extra pounds.
Temple of Philae tour – Our first good view of the temple.
Temple of Philae tour – Closer view.
Temple of Philae tour – Some of the small boats near the entrance.
Temple of Philae tour – Security is at every site we visit.
Temple of Philae tour – Details at the top of the pillars.
Temple of Philae tour – After so many years they are still in great condition.
Temple of Philae tour – Some of the many carvings.
Temple of Philae tour – Another view of the pillars.
Temple of Philae tour – Information showing when the temple was moved because of the dam construction.
Nubian village dinner – Later in the evening we leave on a small boat and go across the Nile to a Nubian village for a traditional dinner.
Nubian village dinner – A few quiet places along the Nile within the cataracts near Aswan.
Nubian village dinner – Lots of rocks near the surface for our boat to maneuver around.
Nubian village dinner – A view of the West bank.
Nubian village dinner – It looks like some of the camels that we used earlier today.
Nubian village dinner – A boat that is similar to the one we are in.
Nubian village dinner – Nearing the Nubian village where we will be disembarking.
Nubian village dinner – On our walk up from the Nile, you can see the High Dam in the distance.
Nubian village dinner – The sun is starting to set.
Nubian village dinner – In the Nubian home some hibiscus tea is ready for us.
Day 12 — Medinet Habu Tour and Dinner with the Group
Luxor – West Bank tour – After our train ride back to Luxor we check into our hotel and then head out for a tour.
Luxor – West Bank tour – The West Bank tour costs us an additional 100 Egyptian Pounds, about $18 USD.
Luxor – West Bank tour – Medinet Habu temple complex
Medinet Habu temple complex - Again, the marks in the stone show where swords were sharpened in past eras.
Medinet Habu temple complex - Carvings covered the walls.
Medinet Habu temple complex – Looks like hands.
Medinet Habu temple complex – Reconstruction going on.
Medinet Habu temple complex – Some of the paint is still intact.
Medinet Habu temple complex – Some of the group walking around the pillars.
Medinet Habu temple complex – Some of it is preserved under the cover
Medinet Habu temple complex – Again, the outstretched wings.
Medinet Habu temple complex – Some of the detail.
Medinet Habu temple complex – The arch way is alighed to match the rising sun of the Equinox which will be tomorrow.
Medinet Habu temple complex– Carvings.
Medinet Habu temple complex – Some of the old buildings sites near the workers tombs.
Medinet Habu temple complex – The old buildings go out a long ways.
Medinet Habu temple complex – May be the hottest day of the entire trip.
Luxor – West Bank tour – Going back over the Nile to the East Bank.
Luxor – West Bank tour – Habu Temple – Some of the locals as we go across the Nile.
Luxor – West Bank tour – Some of the many River Boats along the Nile.
Luxor – Final Dinner with first group – Dancing display.
Luxor – Final dinner with first group – Stephanie’s 30th Birthday celebrations as well.
Egypt – Luxor – Final Dinner with first group – Tomorrow most of the group will head over to the Red Sea while some of us continue touring the temples.
Luxor – Final Dinner with the first group – Some of ladies in the group learning to belly dance.
Luxor – Final Dinner with first group – Wael our tour leader on the right.
Luxor – Final Dinner with first group – Group photo.
I'm sitting in the bottom row center with sleeveless white shirt.
Day 13 — Free Day in Luxor
Luxor – Nile – Some free time in Luxor.
Luxor
Luxor
Luxor
Luxor
Luxor
Luxor – View from the Emilio Hotel.
Luxor – View from the Emilio Hotel.
Luxor – Emilio Hotel – Pool on top floor.
Luxor – View from the Emilio Hotel.
Luxor – View from the Emilio Hotel.
Day 14 — Joining a New Tour Group: Bus Tour of Abydos and Monasteries
Bus tour along the Nile – I meet up with my new group and we’re on our way to Asyut.
Bus tour along the Nile – One of the locks along the Nile.
Bus tour along the Nile – Over the next few days we travel along the Nile by bus seeing some of the valley.
Bus tour along the Nile – These donkeys are used to pump water.
Bus tour along the Nile – Nile Valley from the West side.
Bus tour along the Nile – Harvest in progress.
Bus tour along the Nile – The land is being flooded before new crops are planted.
Bus tour along the Nile – Traveled through many small towns.
Bus tour along the Nile – The fertile lands go further inland than other areas.
Bus tour along the Nile – Plenty of palm trees in the Nile Valley.
Bus tour along the Nile – The children were always quick to give us a wave.
Bus tour along the Nile – A very popular mode of transportation.
Bus tour along the Nile – Abydos Temple – Our first stop.
Bus tour along the Nile – Abydos Temple – Front steps – Another hot day.
Bus tour along the Nile – Abydos Temple – Some of the damage to the carvings.
Bus tour along the Nile – Abydos Temple – Housing built right up to the temples.
Bus tour along the Nile – Abydos Temple – A view from the temple. Many buses and tourists today.
Bus tour along the Nile – Abydos Temple – A modern place of worship near the ancient site.
Bus tour along the Nile – Abydos Temple – Many people are trying to sell postcards to the tourists.
Bus tour along the Nile – On the road again.
Bus tour along the Nile – White Monastery – Christianity within mostly Islamic Egypt.
Bus tour along the Nile – White Monastery – Within the walls with my new group.
Bus tour along the Nile – White Monastery – This part appears much newer than the ancient structure.
Bus tour along the Nile – White Monastery – Another perfect day along the Nile.
Bus tour along the Nile – White Monastery – Inside the church and pictures were allowed.
Bus tour along the Nile – White Monastery – Walking back to the bus from the monastery.
Bus tour along the Nile – On the bus heading to Asyut – Local gravel truck.
Bus tour along the Nile – Driving through some of the remote regions along the Nile.
Bus tour along the Nile – We see many children working in the fields.
Bus tour along the Nile – Donkeys still do much of the work.
Bus tour along the Nile – Typical dress for most of the women in this area.
Bus tour along the Nile – A view of the road conditions we travel on.
Bus tour along the Nile – Passing through a small village.
Bus tour along the Nile – A typical sight as we drive through the towns; men sitting around having Turkish coffee.
Day 15 — Bus Tour: Stops at El Amarna, Beni Hassan and El Minya
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – A view in the morning from the bus.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Many different modes of transportation in Egypt.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Typical view going through the small towns.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Plenty of grapes for sale for the local people.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Vendors set up their carts wherever they can.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – A donkey is heavily burdened with what looks like papyrus.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Continuing our way through the small towns along the Nile.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – The roads we travel on are better today.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – One of the many security crossings that we must go through. No pictures were to be taken … Oops!
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – El Amarna - Our ferry crossing to the tombs of El Amarna.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – El Amarna – The bus we board after the ferry ride to the East side of the Nile.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – El Amarna – Some information about the site.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – El Amarna – You can see the bus and steps that we just came up.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – El Amarna – View from the trail to El Amarna – Vast open desert.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – El Amarna – Walking from tomb to tomb. No pictures allowed.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – El Amarna – Back in the bus. Some of my group.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – El Amarna – Young children trying to sell us handmade ornaments made from papyrus. Guards chase them away.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – El Amarna – Our bus waits for us as we get back to the West side.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – El Amarna – Arriving back at the West bank of the Nile.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – There were plenty of satellite dishes on many of the taller buildings.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Back on the bus heading for Beni Hassen.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – View of streets on our way to Beni Hassan.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Beni Hassan – Some of my group on the ferry ride over.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Beni Hassan – You can see our destination, the tombs in the mountain side are Beni Hassan.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Beni Hassan – On the Nile heading over to Beni Hassan.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Beni Hassan – We are walking over to the tombs from where the ferry docks on the East bank of the Nile.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Beni Hassan – We are near the base of the mountain leading up to the tombs.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Beni Hassan – Another view from the base of the mountain before we start our ascent to the tombs.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Beni Hassan – On our way up you can see the fertile valley ends abruptly.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Beni Hassan – A view of the pathway that we just climbed heading up to the tombs.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Beni Hassan – It was a great view from the top.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Beni Hassan – Looking to the Northwest from the top.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Beni Hassan – A view to the Southwest from near the tombs.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Beni Hassan – No pictures allowed in or around the tombs, the guards follow us all the way and watch us closely and make sure we don’t take out our cameras – Closer look at the farmland in the area.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Beni Hassan – A farm house along our trail back to the ferry.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Beni Hassan – Even in the remote areas the children are looking for money from the tourists.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Beni Hassan – View of area near the trail down to the ferry.
On the ferry going back to the west bank of the Nile. Security police follow us all the way; you can see them in the small boat. There are also guards in our boat as we cross.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Beni Hassan – Security police never left our side since we left Luxor.
We are in the town of El Minya, situated near the center of Egypt. There was hardly anyone trying to sell us merchandise in this part of Egypt, as there are not too many tourists.
Bus tour – Asyut to El Minya – Our hotel for the night – Security Police even walk along outside as we go out for dinner later this evening.
Day 16 — Bus Tour: Stops at Maidum Pyramid and El Fayyum
Bus trip – On the road in the early morning.
Bus trip – It was a common sight to see the men sitting around and taking it easy.
Bus trip – The town of El Minya
Bus trip – There was some telephone service available.
Bus trip – Typical morning scene.
Bus trip – Another small town.
Bus trip – Caleche rides are available in many of the places we visit in Egypt.
Bus trip – Some of the graffiti as we go through the small towns.
Bus trip – View in small town.
Bus trip – One of the guard towers along the road.
Bus trip – The security service in Egypt employs many people.
Bus trip – Some of the service stations are affiliated with familiar companies.
Bus trip – View of a side road from the main road we are traveling on.
Bus trip – We travel through many small towns.
Bus trip – Streets in the small town are typically untidy.
Bus trip – Some transportation for the local people.
Bus trip – Markets are setting up for the day.
Bus trip – View from bus as we head our way through the small towns along the West side of the Nile.
Bus trip – Another clear day.
Bus trip – One of the few tractors we see.
Bus trip – Maidum Pyramid – A sign near the entrance.
Bus trip – Maidum Pyramid – Our first view.
Bus trip – Maidum Pyramid – Entrance into the pyramid. Most of us go in, and it was a long ways down.
Bus trip – Maidum Pyramid – View from the entrance of the pyramid. No pictures allowed inside.
Bus trip – Maidum Pyramid – Looking up just before going inside the pyramid.
Bus trip – Maidum Pyramid – Some members of my group coming out of the pyramid.
Bus trip – Maidum Pyramid – The Nile runs close to this pyramid.
Bus trip – Maidum Pyramid – Ready to enter some tombs. The entranceway was tight making it a hard climb in.
Bus trip – Maidum Pyramid – Small tomb area on the East side of Maidum Pyramid.
Bus trip – Maidum Pyramid – Small tomb entrance.
Bus trip – Maidum Pyramid – Top of Maidum Pyramid.
Bus trip – Maidum Pyramid – View to the West from the Pyramid.
Bus trip – Stop in small town where not too many tourists venture.
Bus trip – A water wheel in the town’s center and a gathering place for many of the local people.
Bus trip – Many crafts for sale but it was for the locals as this town seemed to have a higher standard of living.
Bus trip – El Fayyum – We are at the Hotel that is built around the oasis. Great hotel.
Bus trip – El Fayyum – A very large room just for myself.
Bus trip – El Fayyum – Pool at hotel.
Bus trip – El Fayyum – A few boats along the hotel pool.
Bus trip – El Fayyum – Sun setting, and our tour guide has a few people on the small boat.
Bus trip – El Fayyum – Sun setting over the oasis.
Bus trip – El Fayyum – Sun setting.
Bus trip – El Fayyum – Sunset – This is probably the most cloud we’ve seen on this trip.
Bus trip – El Fayyum – Near sunset at the oasis.
Bus trip – El Fayyum – Sun setting.
Day 17-18 — Bus Tour: Saqqara and Red Pyramid, Memphis. Departure Home
Bus trip – Saqqara Pyramid – Our first view of Saqqara.
Bus trip – Saqqara Pyramid – First views.
Bus trip – Saqqara Pyramid – Some of my group near the Step Pyramid. We were not allowed to go inside this one.
Bus trip – Saqqara Pyramid – Our guide for today had specific views on the building of the pyramids while not embracing others’ views.
Bus trip – Saqqara Pyramid – We are not too far from Cairo. The haze of the pollution can be seen in the distance.
Bus trip – Saqqara Pyramid – This is the entrance to the pyramid and it was not open to the public.
Bus trip – Saqqara Pyramid – Our group walking around the pyramid. We were informed that they have found over 6kms of tunnels under this pyramid so far.
Bus trip – Saqqara Pyramid – Some of the local people who are trying to grab our attention for a horse ride.
Bus trip – Saqqara Pyramid – Most of my group listening to our Guide.
Bus trip – Saqqara Pyramid – View of pyramid.
Bus trip – We are back on the bus heading over to the Red Pyramid.
Bus trip – Near the outskirts of Cairo.
Bus trip – Some of the signs along the way. Not quite as modern as what we are use to in the Western world.
Bus trip – Red Pyramid – Nearing the pyramid.
Bus trip – Red Pyramid – I will be going into the Red Pyramid along with most of my group. You can see the pathway and entrance.
Bus trip – Red Pyramid – A view of the pathway from near the entrance.
Bus trip – Red Pyramid – Our group has been inside and are now coming out. Once again there were no pictures allowed.
Bus trip – Red Pyramid – The South side
Bus trip – Red Pyramid – Another hot day to be walking around.
Bus trip – This is the Bent Pyramid from a distance. We weren’t allowed any closer; it had been closed off for some official reason.
Bus trip – Museum in Memphis – Statue inside a building.
Bus trip – Museum in Memphis – Unbelievable detail.
Bus trip – Museum in Memphis – Statue near the front entrance.
Bus trip – Museum in Memphis – A large selection of souvenirs were available from the many vendors in the area.
Bus trip – Cairo – Back in Cairo for our last night before heading home.
Bus trip – Cairo – Near the main bazaar in Cairo.
Bus trip – Cairo – Crowded streets in the Bazaar.
Bus trip – Cairo – One of the group members is helping the driver as we head back to the hotel.
Egypt – Final Day – Cairo Airport
Egypt – Final Day – Cairo Airport