Ballooning over then visiting The Valley of the Kings

Today we were up early as we are off to fly in a balloon, as the predawn allows for the better wind and consistent thermals. We arrived at the launch fields and the fans were starting to inflate the balloons, soon the burners fired and the majestic glows started. 

Soon we were loaded our basket with 24 people and as the burners roared we gently lifted of and were away.  We were soon soaring over ancient sights and villages. 

After a most gentle landing, we made our way back to the boat for a quick breakfast. Soon we were on a bus heading to the Valley of the Kings. Sadly there were no cameras allowed in this area.  

The Valley of the Kings is the necropolis of the pharaohs of the New Kingdom. Many of the tombs had been raided, yet as time passed the newer discoveries were of tombs that had not raided. It is here the tomb of Tut was discovered. 

With your admittance, one is allowed to enter three of the tombs. The open tombs are determined by site and rotate to prevent over visitation. These tombs are amazing as even though they have not been restored, the colors are amazingly vibrant. 

We visited the Tomb of Ramses IV, Tomb of Ramses IX and the Tomb of Queen Tawsert/ King Sethnaakht. 

We then visited Hatshepsut Temple, simply pronounced “Hot Chicken Soup”.   This temple is partially rock-hewn and the high cliffs make this site very impressive. This site was damaged by Ramses II and his successors, yet it remains a very impressive temple. 

Next we were able to make a visit to Medinet Habu, this less visited site has some amazing hieroglyphs and murals. The enclosure walls provided refuge for the entire population of Thebes during the in the late 20th century. Amazing this site was appropriated by the Coptic Church and was ironically preserved as the reliefs were cover with mud. 

Back to the ship for lunch and a leisurely cruise up the Nile. 

Our Balloon Pilot

Smiting 

Mini Mart 

These guys paddle along side the River Boats and attach a line to a railing. Then they call out the passengers in an effort to sell their wares. They will toss the items up onto the top deck and should you agree on a price you place the money in a bag and toss it back to them. Amazed nothing went into the drink.