July 29 – August 07, 2027
This tour begins in Cairo where guided visits to some of the world’s oldest treasures are planned beginning with a visit to the Cairo’s iconic Giza pyramids where the city meets the desert, and the Sphinx, constructed around 2000 B.C. Other sites in Cairo include the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum, along with other significant museums and historic churches. On our arrival in Luxor, we’ll visit the treasures of that region, including King Tut’s tomb in the Valley of the Kings, Queen Hatshepsut’s Temple and the Temple of Karnak. August 2, is a day dedicated to the eclipse viewing in Luxor. Experience the beauty and magic of the eclipse, connecting with fellow travelers in this shared moment of awe. Following the eclipse, we’ll set sail from Luxor aboard a small luxury yacht (Dahabiyya) to continue our Egyptian adventure. We’ll cruise on the Nile to the city of Aswan and visit Edfu, the Temple of Horus and Kom Ombo along the way. Take an early morning flight to the monuments at Abu Simbel, built by Ramses II (r. 1277-1212 BCE) they were moved when the High Dam at Aswan was built to avoid being flooded.
July 29- August 7, 2027 – Join Curator of Astronomy Rich Sanderson of the Springfield Museums & Artful Travels in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the longest total solar eclipse for the next 87 years from Luxor, Egypt. Known historically as Thebes, this city was once the capital of ancient Egypt and is now celebrated as one of the world’s greatest open-air museums. Luxor is home to a plethora of spectacular temples, tombs, and monuments that testify to its rich historical legacy.
The climate in Luxor during August is characterized by extreme heat and arid conditions, dominated by the desert landscape.
These conditions are ideal for eclipse viewing, as they significantly optimize the chances of clear skies. Our selected viewing location has been carefully chosen based on historical weather data for this date, ensuring that you will enjoy the best possible experience as the moon obscures the sun.
Luxor offers unique photography opportunities against the backdrop of its ancient structures, allowing enthusiasts to capture stunning images of the eclipse framed by iconic monuments. For those who prefer to immerse themselves in the awe of the phenomenon without the distraction of a camera, the historical significance and archaeological grandeur of Luxor provide a breathtaking setting.
Regardless of how you choose to witness this magnificent solar event, the experience promises to be unforgettable, set in a location steeped in history that enhances the magic of the eclipse.
