NEW! Grand Nile Journey I

Ancient Egyptians knew Esna as Latopolis, named for the largest of the perch species that swam in the Nile’s sacred waters. Its ancient past lives on in the colorful street market overflowing with fabrics, carpets, brassware, mother-of-pearl keepsakes and more. Esna’s glorious Temple of Khnum is celebrated for its 1st-century Roman Hypostyle Hall, 24 columns topped with intricately carved floral capitals. Its walls are adorned with images of Roman emperors making offerings to Egyptian gods.

Egyptians have relied upon the Nile since ancient times, when the river supported trade, fishing and agriculture, and facilitated connection between the communities of Upper and Lower Egypt. Papyrus boats and wooden vessels were a common sight, carrying fishermen, goods and passengers along its waters. This legacy can still be seen today: modernized feluccas continue to navigate by wind with their distinctive lateen sails next to local ferries and humble fishing boats.