Above the entrance to Abydos Temple, a carved panel shows the famous “helicopter, submarine and fighter jet” glyphs – one of Egypt’s most intriguing mysteries and a reminder that Abydos is unlike any other site in the country.
You may have realised by now that my appreciation for Egypt’s temples comes from personal experience gained over more than 25 years and countless visits.
From the moment I first set foot in Abydos and Dendera, I urged every guest at Mara House to visit them. Nobody has ever come back and told me I was wrong. It is a long day, but so is a trip to Abu Simbel. Given the choice, I would choose Abydos and Dendera every time.
The main reason Abu Simbel appears on more itineraries is simple: for many years Abydos and Dendera were largely overlooked by travel writers and tour operators, while Abu Simbel was already firmly established as a standard destination. I spent years encouraging visitors to make the journey and have never regretted doing so.
I cannot recommend these temples strongly enough. If you do visit, make sure you go with a guide who truly understands their many layers of history, symbolism and mystery, rather than treating them as another box to tick.
I have written many articles about these temples, especially Abydos, and have listed them at the end of this page. Some are practical, some are historical and some are decidedly more mystical. Take your pick.
The Day’s Journey
- Departure: We leave Luxor around 7:30 am for the three-hour drive north to Abydos.
- Abydos Visit: Around two hours inside the Temple of Seti I, with time to explore its chapels, the King List and the famous “helicopter glyphs.”
- Dendera Visit: After Abydos, we return south to Dendera, spending around two hours beneath its painted ceilings while exploring chapels, rooftops and crypts.
- Return: Travel back to Luxor in time to meet security protocols, usually arriving by early evening.
A packed lunch is provided for Mara House guests. Visitors staying elsewhere should bring one from their hotel, as facilities along the route are limited.
What’s Included
- Pickup and drop-off from Mara House, your hotel or your cruise boat in Luxor
- Air-conditioned transport
- All entrance fees
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Packed lunch for Mara House guests
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Hat and sun protection
- A sense of curiosity for both history and mystery
A Note on Special Access
The Osirion at Abydos, along with certain restricted areas at Dendera, requires additional permissions and fees. If these are on your personal wish-list, let me know when you enquire.
Related: The Osirion at Abydos: The Ancient Egyptian Temple Still Defying Explanation
Practical Details and Booking
This is a full-day journey rich in history, atmosphere and discovery. Every booking is handled personally by me. For availability and pricing, email me at maraegypt@gmail.com with your travel dates and the number of people in your party.
If you are travelling with children under 12, please include their ages so I can advise accurately on pricing. Abydos and Dendera can be especially magical places for curious children.
Related Reading
- Pharaoh Seti I, Ramses II and the Quest for Eternity — while not specifically about Abydos, this story helps set the scene.
The Seeker’s Path: Abydos & Dendera
- Key of Invitation: The Seeker’s Path
- Key of Connection: How the Stones Found Me
- Key of Devotion: Omm Sety – Dorothy Eady & Pharaoh Sety I
- Key of Mystery: Return of the Djedi?
- Key of Revelation: The Maker’s Hand – Unseen Genius at Abydos
- Key of Ritual: Beyond the Cartouches – The Priests Who Kept the Heartbeat of Abydos
- Key of Cosmos: The Celestial Secrets of Dendera Temple