Karnak, in depth
The largest temple complex of ancient Egypt, built and rebuilt over two thousand years. We take it slowly: the Great Hypostyle Hall, the obelisks, the sacred lake, and the reliefs most visitors walk straight past.
The route
The first pylon and the ram-headed sphinxes
How a temple entrance worked, and why it was never finished.
The Great Hypostyle Hall
134 columns, most of it built under Seti I and Ramesses II. We read the battle and offering scenes on the walls.
The obelisks of Thutmose I and Hatshepsut
The story of the queen who ruled as king, and the walls built around her obelisk.
The sacred lake and the great scarab
Where the priests purified themselves before the daily rituals.
Open Air Museum (optional)
Rebuilt chapels, including the Red Chapel of Hatshepsut and the White Chapel of Senusret I. Separate ticket.
Good to know
- Karnak is large and has little shade. Start early, wear a hat and bring water.
- Comfortable shoes: the ground is uneven in places.
Included
- Private guiding by Baha, in English or Arabic
- Hotel pickup and drop-off [confirm area: East / West Bank hotels]
- Transport [car and driver: confirm]
Not included
- Entry tickets (paid at each site) [or included?]
- Lunch and drinks [confirm]
- Tips
Other days out
- Luxor Temple at sunsetEast Bank · Late afternoon into evening
- The East Bank in one dayEast Bank · Full day
- West Bank templesWest Bank · Early morning
What guests say
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