egypt
Qena
The Temple of Hathor in Dendera
Dendera , on the Nile ’ s west bank facing the city of Qena , was Ancient Egypt ’ s cultcentre dedicated to the goddess Hathor . With its hypostyle halls studded with Hathor-headed columns and ceilings awash with lavish blue-hued scenes , Dendera ’ s Temple of Hathor is a remarkable surviving testament to the spectacular artistic achievements of Ancient Egypt .
The superb level of interior preservation is thanks both to the temple ’ s youth and an amazing multi-year restoration project that has painstakingly revived the original colours of the decoration . While the oldest temple sections date back to the 1st century BCE , during Ptolemaic rule , the outer hypostyle hall was only completed later , under the reign of Roman Emperor Tiberius .
Soak up the ceiling scenes depicting sky-goddess Nut in the outer hypostyle hall and in the sanctuary chapel , then tackle the steep staircase down to the crypt to explore claustrophobic passageways covered in intricate reliefs . Afterwards , a trip up to the roof using the western staircase is an experience not to be missed . This is the processional route the priests would have used during Dendera ’ s New Year Festival and the walls along the stairs depict scenes from the ceremony . Whether you ’ re a first-timer or an Egyptophile , this itinerary has something to please everyone .
ESSENTIALS
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When to go : Egypt ’ s peak cruise season runs December to February . In fall ( October and November ), the Nile Valley ’ s soft light is great for photography . Upper Egypt ’ s weather is still comfortable during March and April ( spring ) but this is Egypt ’ s khamsin ( sandstorm ) season , which sometimes disrupts travel . From May to September , there are fewer sailings due to the summer heat . Currency : Egyptian pound Language : Arabic . Many people understand English in tourist areas . Getting around : Taxis are ubiquitous and can be
hailed on the street . Uber operates in Cairo . When the weather ’ s not too hot , walking is generally easy and safe . Cairo has an efficient metro system .
BOOK IT NOW
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Spend three nights exploring Cairo before you board the AmaDahlia to begin your cruise . Select a Grand Suite for its twin balconies , perfect vantage points to marvel at the Nile River scenery . Round-trip itinerary with AmaWaterways begins October 8 , 2025 .
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To book your trip to Egypt , contact our travel agency . image : awl images . Illustration : Lis Watkins
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