NEW! Grand Nile Journey II

  • From $15,999
  • |
  • 19 Days
  • |
  • 17 Guided Tours
  • |
  • 1 Country

Esna, Egypt

  • Riverside cityscape with boats and minaret

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. Return to your ship and cast off down the river. As you sail, spend the rest of the day enjoying onboard activities, perhaps attending an informative talk.