James Smith
May 8, 2026, 9:42 p.m.This was one of the best tours I've been on. The private guide was insightful and answered all our questions thoroughly. Visiting the Temple of Hathor was a surreal experience, and I felt completely immersed in the history and culture. A must-do tour!
1) Hotel Pickup in Sahel Hashesh
Pick up time from your hotel in Sahel Hashesh by Marsa Alam tours tour guide, Next Drive to Dendera temple The Distance 220 K.m Sahel Hashesh- Safaga 60 K.m Safaga -Dendera 160 With a break in the desert
2) Touring the Dendera Temple
Arrive at Dendera at 08: 00, You'll be accompanied by Egyptologist tour guide, He will explain the history of the temple Dendera temple The Temple of Hathor was largely constructed during the Late Ptolemaic period, specifically during the reign of Ptolemy XII and Cleopatra VII. Later additions were made during the Roman period. Although constructed by a dynasty of rulers who were not native Egyptians themselves, the design of this temple has been found to be in accordance to that of other classical Egyptian temples, with the exception of the front of the hypostyle hall, which, according to an inscription above the entrance, was constructed by the Emperor Tiberius. Apart from these, there are also scenes in the temple complex portraying the Ptolemaic rulers. For example, carved onto the external face of one of the temple walls is a huge relief of Cleopatra VII and her son by Julius Caesar and co-ruler, Ptolemy XV (better referred to as Caesarion). The two Ptolemaic rulers are shown dressed in Egyptian garb, and offering sacrifices. Hathor was also regarded as a goddess of healing, and this is evident in the presence of a sanatorium in the temple complex. Here, pilgrims would come to be cured by the goddess. Sacred water (which was made holy by having it poured onto statues inscribed with sacred texts) was used for bathing, unguents were dispensed by the priests of Hathor, and sleeping quarters were supplied for those hoping that the goddess would appear in their dreams, and so aid them.
3) Return Drive to Sahel Hashesh
Drive safe to Sahel Hashesh and Savour the stunning scenery of the desert