18 Jan 2023
A long but amazing day. The drive to Abydos was long with much of it desert but becoming more interesting as we reached the Nile at Qena. A roadworks detour in Abydos - expertly negotiated by Sabr, our driver - showed us the real Egypt of narrow busy streets as we reached the site which was almost empty of tourists. The Temple of Seti was amazing with original colours and marvellous hieroglyphics - including the famous "helicopter" - while Moammen, our guide was both knowledgeable and engaging. Dendera was equally impressive with several levels including the alleged Dendera "light bulbs", followed by a good lunch in a local restaurant in old Qena. Overall, an excellent trip at our own pace to two of the most impressive historic sites in Egypt.