There was a 6am wake up call this morning as we were docked at Edfu only till 8.30am. We had pulled in next to another ship and actually had to walk through it to get to the bank. There we caught a horse and carriage to the Edfu temple. It’s the most beautiful and well preserved temple in all of Egypt as it’s the furthest from the Nile. Dedicated to a triad of Gods, which consisted of Horus, Hathor and their son Hor-Sama-Tawy. The main front wall is 37m high and decorated whit battle scenes.
Then we headed back to the boat for breakfast and to catch some sun on the top deck. After lunch, we entered the loch. That was super cool. Not just for the watching of the gates and the lowering of the water levels, but for the merchants in their boats. They would hook themselves up to our boat and then proceed to throw up bags of goods, mostly towels and table cloths. The kids (esp B.B.) were mesmerised. It was fun watching them scramble when a bag fell into the water
We arrived in Luxor not long after. It’s Karnak and Luxor temple time! We first visit Luxor temple. Luxor means the palace. It took more than 800 years to build the Luxor temples. It’s been mostly destroyed as it was over 65 acres but now only a 5th remains.
After an hour to roam it’s on dusk and we move to Karnak temple. It’s amazing to see it all lit up. Its massive rows of mini Sphinx used to run all way to Luxor temple. They are only now uncovering it and restoring as they go. The two huge stone figures at the entrance are most impressive. There is a change of style here with the temple pillars looking like lotus flowers.
The kids are struggling so we head back for diner. B.B. isn’t feeling well and nearly falls asleep at the table. Ayrlie is desperately trying to stay awake long enough to see the belly dancing show at 9pm….. it’s only 7! With much coaxing we change her into the beautiful blue dress we purchased in Dubai and head up. Mark stays with B.B. as he is already in lala land! We walk into blaring music and an Tanoura dancer spinning around in his massive skirt. It even has lights! He goes to the tables and dances over Ayrlie and I. Then the belly dancer drags us both on stage. It’s a bit embarrassing but Ayrlie has a great time. She is asleep 3 seconds after her head hits the pillow when we finally get back to the room. Tonight is our last night on the boat and it’s another early start tomorrow.
