I did this “extra” add-on ballooning adventure in Egypt in 2018, but this experience was so much more enjoyable. This time our pilot took us right over the Valley of the Kings while on my previous excursion, the pilot did not get us too high or anywhere near the “big ticket” sites. While I enjoyed my ride in 2018, this was 100% better.
Kent Weeks
I also learned a new little tidbit of information. It was archeologist Kent Weeks who introduced hot air ballooning to Luxor. He did it as a cheap way to create aerial maps of the area, and it later turned into a booming tourist business for local companies.
http://www.ethanholman.com/history/egypt/biography/weeks_kent.html
The ride was approx 45 minutes long. I attempted to take still photographs and some video. Here are the results.
Sunrise in the morning with the Nile glistening from the early light – nothing is more beautiful
Road leading to the Valley of the Kings
Howard Carter House/Museum – I need to come back and see how the man who found the tomb of Tutankhamen lived and worked.
Jackal spotted from the air near the Valley of the Kings
Hatshepsut Temple
Valley of the Kings (Left side of mountain ridge) / Hatshepsut Temple (Right side of mountain ridge)
Ramesseum
Temple of Ramesses III – Medinet Habu
Another smiling face to greet us as we landed
Next, we had breakfast and then met up with the rest of our group. What happens next is just incredible.
If you enjoy reading my posts about Egypt, STEM, Drones, MIT, mountains, or mysteries I hope you will want to run out and purchase my first book, “Osiris Returns”. With some luck, it should come to market late 2020 / early 2021. Please consider staying in the loop. An email sign-up form can be found at the bottom of my home page along with my social media links. Your email will only be used to alert you when it comes out. I will not use or share your email for any other purpose.
