Expert:
Aidan Dodson, author, broadcaster and lecturer is a Research Fellow in the Department of Archaeology and Anthropology, University of Bristol, where he is Unit Director for Egyptology.
Day 1 – London/Luxor
Fly London to Luxor with EgyptAir and transfer to the first-class Old Winter Palace Garden Pavilion for seven nights on a bed and breakfast basis. The hotel is set in peaceful gardens and has all the usual amenities. Upgrades are available to the Old Palace.
Day 2 – Karnak
We start with a morning at mighty Karnak the greatest temple ever built by man. As well as admiring the Hypostyle Hall, obelisks and pylons of the main axis of the temple we will also explore the many hidden corners and recesses that tell us of the fascinating rise and fall of Egypt. This afternoon there will be an informal tea served in the gardens of the Winter Palace. (B) 
Day 3 – Abydos
Our first full day off the beaten track takes us north to the great complex at Abydos with some of the finest reliefs ever carved. From here we continue to Shunet ez Zebib whose massive mud brick walls predate Giza and even Sakkara. We are fortunate to visit the early dynastic royal tombs at Umm el Qab and finally the gigantic and mysterious mastabas at Beit Khallaf before returning to Luxor. (B)
Day 4 – Naqada and Dendera
Another extraordinary day starts as we head north again to the well kept Ptolemaic temple of Dendera where we can enjoy time on the roof of an Egyptian temple. We continue to the important and almost legendary site of Naqada that gave rise to predynastic dating systems. Return to Luxor and an evening lecture at the Museum of Mummification. (B)
Day 5 – West Bank
Today we are close to home as we investigate some of the less well known sites of the West Bank. The Temple of Seti I, the gigantic tombs at Assasif and the open air museum of Merenptah all feature. (B)
Day 6 – Akhmim/Athribis
Our final special excursion takes us north once more to the remote and rarely visited site of Akhmim, a once thriving city that Aidan will interpret for us. We will also explore the tombs at Qaw el Kebir and the temples of Hiw at Wannina. (B) |
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DEPARTURE DATE:
10th September 2007, Aidan Dodson
Basic Holiday Price: £1,375
Single Supplement: £224
 Book 10th September tour
Nile view from £399 per person
Optional balloon flight £90 per person |
Day 7 – Free Day
Today is a chance to explore on your own, shop or relax. There is an optional hot air balloon trip and an afternoon felucca sail will be offered locally. (B)
Day 8 – Luxor/London
Fly Luxor to London with EgyptAir arriving early afternoon. (B) |