Family Adventure in Luxor: Exploring Ancient Egypt

First Day in Luxor: Karnak and Luxor Temple

Our family adventure in Luxor began today, and what a start it was! Leaving Bielefeld behind, with a layover in Cairo, we finally arrived in Luxor, ready to explore the ancient wonders that this city holds. The kids, especially Omar, were buzzing with excitement. I was eager to see the temples, and Fatima was excited to immerse herself in the local culture. Today was all about exploring the magnificent Karnak and Luxor Temples, a journey back in time that left us in awe.

After settling into the Iberotel Luxor Hotel, which is conveniently located and offered a great view of the Nile, we headed straight for Karnak Temple. The sheer size of the complex is astounding. As we approached, the towering pylons loomed before us, hinting at the grandeur within. The sun was shining, casting long shadows across the massive stone structures, adding to the mystical atmosphere.


Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Luxor at Iberotel Luxor Hotel, where comfort meets convenience just minutes from the city center.

We started our exploration at the Great Hypostyle Hall, a forest of colossal columns adorned with intricate hieroglyphs. Omar was fascinated by the sheer scale of it all, craning his neck to take in the towering pillars. I tried to explain the significance of the hieroglyphs, pointing out the cartouches of pharaohs and the depictions of ancient gods. Fatima was particularly interested in the details of the carvings, noticing the subtle artistry and the stories they told.

The Karnak Temple is not just a temple, but a sprawling religious complex built and expanded over more than 2,000 years, a living chronicle of dynastic ambition and divine devotion.

Wandering through the complex, we came across the Sacred Lake, its still waters reflecting the surrounding structures. I could almost imagine the ancient priests performing their rituals here, the air filled with chants and incense. We also saw the Obelisk of Hatshepsut, a towering monument dedicated to the female pharaoh, its pink granite gleaming in the sunlight. I explained to Omar how Hatshepsut defied convention to rule Egypt, a story that seemed to captivate him.

After spending a good part of the morning at Karnak, we were ready for lunch. We decided to try Al Sahaby Lane Restaurant, recommended for its rooftop seating and traditional Egyptian food. The restaurant was located in a bustling lane, adding to the authentic atmosphere. As we climbed to the rooftop, we were greeted with a stunning view of Luxor Temple and the Nile. The breeze was refreshing, and the setting was perfect for a relaxing meal.


Discover authentic Egyptian cuisine at Al Sahaby Lane Restaurant in Luxor—where tradition meets flavor in an inviting setting.

We ordered a variety of dishes, including mezze, tagines, and shawarma. The food was delicious, and the flavors were a delightful mix of spices and herbs. Omar particularly enjoyed the shawarma wrap, while Fatima savored the tagine. I tried a bit of everything, enjoying the authentic taste of Egyptian cuisine. The service was friendly, and the staff made us feel welcome, adding to the overall positive experience.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we made our way to Luxor Temple in the late afternoon. The temple is located closer to the city center and is easily accessible from the restaurant. As we approached, the sun began to set, casting a warm golden glow over the ancient stones. The Avenue of Sphinxes, recently restored, was a sight to behold, leading us towards the temple entrance.


Explore Luxor Temple, an archaeological gem in Egypt, where ancient history comes alive through breathtaking architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Luxor Temple, though smaller than Karnak, has its own unique charm. The temple was built by Amenhotep III and Ramses II, and it is dedicated to the Theban Triad of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. The columns and statues were beautifully lit by the setting sun, creating a magical ambiance. We walked through the colonnades, admiring the intricate carvings and the towering statues of pharaohs.

I found a sense of peace and tranquility as we wandered through the temple, a feeling of connection to the past. Fatima pointed out the Coptic Christian and Islamic influences within the temple, showcasing the layers of history that have shaped this place over the centuries. Omar, though tired from the day's adventures, was still curious, asking questions about the pharaohs and the gods.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, we made our way back to the hotel. The city was alive with activity, the streets filled with people and the sounds of daily life. We decided to have dinner at Sofra, a restaurant known for its authentic Egyptian dining experience. The reviews I had read spoke highly of the rooftop terrace, and we were lucky enough to get a table there.


Experience the vibrant flavors of Egypt at Sofra, where traditional meat dishes meet modern café culture in Luxor.

The atmosphere at Sofra was enchanting, with soft lighting and traditional decor. We ordered a variety of dishes, including Tagin Lahma Bil Kawerma, Saniyet Kofta, and some traditional mezze. The food was exceptional, each dish bursting with flavor. Fatima particularly enjoyed the Tagin Lahma Bil Kawerma, while Omar loved the kofta. I savored the Bosara, a mashed fava bean dip with fresh herbs and spices. The service was attentive, and the staff made us feel like honored guests.

Visiting Luxor is like stepping back in time, where every stone has a story to tell, and every corner holds a piece of history waiting to be discovered.

After dinner, we strolled through the local market, SHOP SANDOUK . HandCrafts/FairTrade, looking for souvenirs. The shop was a treasure trove of handcrafted items, from cotton shawls to pottery and jewelry. We bought a few small items, supporting the local artisans and taking home a piece of Luxor with us. The owner, Khaled, was incredibly hospitable, offering us hibiscus tea and sharing stories about the local products.


Discover the essence of Egyptian craftsmanship at Shop Sandouk, a premier destination for authentic handicrafts and fair-trade souvenirs in Luxor.

Back at the hotel, we reflected on our first day in Luxor. It had been a whirlwind of ancient wonders, delicious food, and cultural immersion. The Karnak and Luxor Temples were truly magnificent, and the local cuisine was a delight. Omar was already asking about our plans for tomorrow, eager to explore the Valley of the Kings and the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut. Fatima and I were excited to see more of what Luxor had to offer, knowing that our family adventure was just beginning.

As I write this, I'm sipping on some mint tea, the sounds of Luxor fading into the background. Tomorrow, we venture into the Valley of the Kings, where pharaohs rest in their hidden tombs, and visit the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, a monument to a remarkable queen. I'm sure it will be another day filled with awe and wonder, and I can't wait to share it with you all.

I almost forgot to mention that I was so caught up in the excitement of the day that I completely forgot to pack swimsuits for the hotel pool. Guess we'll have to make a quick shopping trip tomorrow!

I am also looking forward to trying Kam Thai for breakfast, A Taste of India for lunch, and 1886 Restaurant for dinner tomorrow. Perhaps we will also visit Murphys Irish Bar. Good night from Luxor!