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Europe / Iceland

Iceland Roadtrip Day 3: Fjaðrárgljúfur, Svartifoss & Svínafellsjökull

3 December 2016

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Last Updated on 23 May 2025

Day 3 is really only our second day of exploring, so we make sure we cram in as much as possible. Unfortunately, the weather has other plans, so by midday, exploring outside is like taking a shower with your clothes on. We do our best not to be slowed down, because we certainly aren’t stopping.

Today’s drive takes us from Kirkjubæjarklaustur east to Hof, about 90km along Route 1. I didn’t mark too many things on the map for us today, so I do some quick googling in the car (thanks to the portable wifi we were given for free at the car rental place!!). Unsurprisingly, there are more things than we could ever hope to see during daylight hours along this short stretch of the country.

Fjaðrárgljúfur

A short drive from our hotel in Kirkjubæjarklaustur, our first stop today is a canyon that is surprisingly green considering all the black rock we’ve been seeing that looks like something out of a space movie. We are not so lucky with the weather today, so it’s drizzling on and off while we hike around to various points along the canyon to snap photos. I don’t know if it isn’t a popular spot or if the weather has put people off, but we only see about 3 other people the whole time we are there! A perfect opportunity to slip past the safety barriers and take some photos. Cal won’t let me do anything too daring, because he thinks I have the coordination of a spider on rollerskates, so I settle for photographing him.



Foss á Siðu

Just a short drive along Route 1 back to the east, we stop for a quick snap of yet another waterfall and a very glacial looking river.


Svartifoss

And this makes our third waterfall of the day. About a half hour from reaching our hotel in Hof, we stop for a quick hike out to another waterfall in Vatnajökull National Park. From the car, we walk 1.5km each way to see the unusual falls surrounded by strange hexagon lava columns. It almost doesn’t look real. Clearly my camera is upset by the moisture in the air, so it’s taken rather blurry photos, but in person it is just stunning.



Svínafellsjökull

Also in Vatnajökull National Park, just a few minutes from Svartifoss, we get back on the main road and then turn left onto a gravel road that takes us almost right up to Svínafellsjökull glacier. By this point, it’s approaching sunset and the rain is in full swing, so we don’t hike along the length of the glacier like we want to, but we do enjoy it plenty from 20 minute of sprinting around, frantically taking photos in the downpour.  It is still so worth it. The glacier is incredibly blue, quite similar to ones I’ve seen in Patagonia, but far better than the one we saw recently in New Zealand. It appears I’ve coordinated my outfit with Mother Nature today. Callum almost didn’t want to get out of the car because of the rain, but he’s running around taking photos like mad as soon as he sees the glacier. A fabulous end to another great day in Iceland.


Read more about our adventures in Iceland

ICELAND ROADTRIP DAYS 1 & 2: SKÓGAFOSS, SÓLHEIMASANDUR & VÍK

ICELAND ROADTRIP DAY 4: VATNAJÖKULL NATIONAL PARK & THE GLACIER LAGOONS

ICELAND ROADTRIP DAY 5: RIDING ICELANDIC HORSES & EXPLORING BLACK SAND BEACH

ICELAND ROADTRIP DAY 6: GOLDEN CIRCLE

ICELAND ROADTRIP DAY 7: SNOWMOBILING ON LANGJÖKULL GLACIER

ICELAND ROADTRIP DAY 8: BLUE LAGOON

Check out these posts for details on planning your own trip

LAND OF FIRE & ICE: A GUIDE TO PLANNING THE ULTIMATE ICELAND TRIP

A PERFECT 8-DAY ICELAND ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

And read my article on We Are Travel Girls for more inspiration

ROAD TRIP INSPIRATION: 10 MUST-SEE PLACES IN SOUTHERN ICELAND

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brooke beyond

Hey, I'm Brooke and I'm obsessed with getting off the beaten path, exploring backcountry gems & travelling beyond the ordinary! I left Australia 5 years ago after finishing a PhD in Biomechanics & have been travelling the world full-time ever since (joined by my life/climbing partner, James). Whether it’s road-tripping through Mexico, climbing alpine peaks in the Andes, scuba diving in the Red Sea, or tackling epic via ferrata in the Dolomites, I hope this blog will inspire your future adventures & help you find wonder in every corner of the globe. xx bb

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hi, I’m brooke!

I'm obsessed with getting off the beaten path, exploring backcountry gems & travelling beyond the ordinary! I left Australia 5 years ago after finishing a PhD in Biomechanics & have been travelling the world full-time ever since (now joined by my life/climbing partner, James). I hope this blog will inspire your future adventures & help you find wonder in every corner of the globe. xx bb

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@brookebeyond_
brooke ✨travel & mountain gal

@brookebeyond_

  • In a land of sand and stone, Jabreen Castle feels like a secret garden 🌺 — #oman #nizwa #castle #jabreencastle
  • WELCOME TO OMAN 🇴🇲✨ Nestled between the Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Sea, Oman unfolds in a tapestry of sand, stone & silence— a desert kingdom shaped by centuries of tradition. We spent 2 weeks road-tripping between ancient forts, sparkling wadis, golden dunes, and mud-brick villages seemingly lost in time. And while the natural beauty has completely astounded us (along with the near-total lack of people!), Oman is also the most conservative country we’ve ever visited—and it’s left us with very mixed feelings overall. It’s been heartbreaking to see posted signs declaring homosexuality a “crime”. To have a man approach James on the street (without even looking at ME) and say he should “tell his wife to cover her legs because they’re offending Allah”. To be forbidden to even hold hands in public. It’s brought up a lot of questions for us about the ethics of supporting tourism in places that deny basic rights and perpetuate hateful ideologies. But then again, if we only visited places with perfect human rights records, we’d never set foot in the US again, either… The world is a terrible and incredible and heartbreaking and beautiful place, all at once. So perhaps the best thing we can do is share a balanced perspective— the stunning views AND the hard truths about Oman. I’m curious to know how other people reconcile this in their travels… Would you travel somewhere that is fundamentally in misalignment with your values? — #oman #nizwa #muscat #middleeast
  • Welcome to Siwa Oasis, a shimmering mirage at the edge of the Sahara & perhaps the most unexpected corner of Egypt ✨ The only way to reach this tiny settlement is by driving nearly 10hrs from Cairo, but the lack of airport or easy connections does come with its benefits… Siwa is rustic, uncrowded, and blissfully untouched. A world all its own. — #egypt #siwaoasis #siwa
  • a small collection of our favourite temples in Upper Egypt 🤩✨ which would you want to visit first?? — #egypt #luxor #ancientegypt
  • Carved in the cliffs of Luxor’s West Bank lies the Valley of the Kings, the ancient necropolis where Egypt’s mighty pharaohs were entombed for eternity. From 1550–1070 BCE, more than 60 royal tombs were carved into the rock, their walls covered in vivid hieroglyphs and celestial maps to guide each ruler safely into the afterlife. Of all the incredible ancient sites in Luxor, the Valley of the Kings struck me the deepest. The colours are just so vivid and the art still feels so alive… a time-capsule that’s perfectly preserved 3000yrs of history. The wonder of it all literally brought me to tears 🥺 TIPS FOR VISITING 🎟️ there are usually ~12 tombs open at any given time & the standard ticket will get you into any 3 of the basic lot (while a few of the most special ones require an extra ticket) Which tombs to visit👇 🔹 Tomb of Ramses IV (KV2) — one of the best preserved, with a soaring barrel-vaulted ceiling painted deep blue and covered in golden stars 🔹 Tomb of Merneptah (KV8) — long, descending corridors lined with detailed reliefs that still show traces of their original colour 🔹 Tomb of Ramses III (KV11) — features striking battle scenes and the Book of Gates, illustrating the pharaoh’s journey through the night 🔹 Tomb of Ramses V/VI (KV9) — ($4 extra ticket) — the ceilings are covered in intricate astronomical scenes, including the Book of the Heavens. 🔹 Tomb of Seti I (KV17) — ($40 extra ticket) — the most exquisite of them all, with incredible depth, vivid paintwork, and intricate carvings that make it feel almost alive — #egypt #valleyofthekings #ancientegypt #luxor
  • After 3 trips to Cairo, here’s what I’d recommend if you only had 1 full day to see the highlights: 1️⃣ 6.30am: light brekky on your hotel rooftop - book a hotel in Giza with a rooftop terrace and enjoy a light breakfast overlooking the pyramids before heading out! 2️⃣ 7am: start at the Giza Plateau (pyramids + sphinx) - arrive at opening to enjoy the complex to yourself before tour buses arrive ~9am - new shuttle bus system inside the complex as of late 2025—> take the bus to the King Khafre stop (this is the pyramid with partial casing on the top) and then walk around the backside of the Great Pyramid - in the interest of time, I’d recommend skipping the inside of the pyramid (it takes at least 30min and there’s not much to see) - catch the shuttle to the Sphinx 3️⃣ 10.30am: brunch at 9 Pyramids Lounge - reservation required to access this area— worth it for the view! - from the Visitor’s Centre, take the shuttle out to the lounge >30min before your reservation to allow time for photos - our absolute favourite view of the pyramids is a short walk to the left of the restaurant 4️⃣ 1pm: Saqqara Necropolis - about 1hr from Giza (hire a driver) - Pyramid of Teti: descend steep steps into the tomb to see incredible deep relief hieroglyphs & stars on the ceiling - Tomb of Mereruk: large interior with some preserved colour & great representations of daily life - Djoser Step Pyramid + tomb: another cool pyramid to enter! *OR if you want a fancy lunch and more time at the museum, skip Saqqara and swap 9 Pyramids Lounge for Khufu’s (also inside Giza Plateau) 5️⃣ 4pm: Grand Egyptian Museum - 1hr drive back to Giza - spend 2-3hrs exploring the museum (galleries close an hour earlier, so start there and then explore the hall) - open until 10pm on Sat or Wed, otherwise until 7pm 6️⃣ dinner at Zooba - one of our favourite restaurants in Cairo, with a location right inside the GEM complex — #egypt #pyramids #giza #cairo
  • For hundreds of years, people have been cruising the Nile as a way to experience the incredible temples and tombs of Upper Egypt (and for thousands of years before that, as a means of transporting the raw materials used to BUILD these temples). And here’s what we’ve learned after multiple Nile Cruises: it’s a classic for a reason. This is the absolute best way to experience ancient Egypt, and it’s a joy for us to come back year after year (after year) to spend more time on this storied river, soaking in the magic of so many millennia. If you like the idea of a Nile Cruise but have noooo idea what’s involved, here’s some quick info: 🔹most cruises run between Luxor and Aswan over 3-5 days 🔹cruises include full board (3 meals per day) and guided visits to all of the sites along the route— you’ll dock outside ancient temples and step off the boat to explore! 🔹expect to pay anything from $500-$10k per room, depending on how budget vs fancy the boat is 🔹the standard itinerary includes: East Bank of Luxor (Karnak + Luxor Temples), West Bank (Temple of Hatshepsut, Valley of the Kings), Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae Temple (and it’s easy to tack on Abu Simbel) Would you go on a Nile Cruise?? 👇🏻 — #egpyt #nilecruise #luxor
  • back in Egypt for the 3rd time in 2 years and still mesmerised by the history and legends and MAGIC here ✨ — #egpyt #pyramids #gizapyramids
  • WE LOVE YOU, JORDAN!!! 🤩🇯🇴 If you’ve been following along in my stories (@brookebeyond_ ), you’ll know that we just wrapped up our inaugural Jordan adventure group trip and that it was CRAZY AMAZING!!! We hiked along the Jordan Trail, we scrambled high above Wadi Rum, we learned to cook classic Jordanian dishes with a group of local ladies, we canyoneered to hidden waterfalls, we explored back trails of Petra that almost no one knows about, we floated in the Dead Sea… and we got to watch 12 new people fall in love with Jordan ❤️ It’s such an unbelievable privilege to share our favourite places with fellow travellers, to be given a platform and an opportunity to showcase the culture, hospitality, wild landscapes, and incredible adventures that make Jordan so unique. And it’s a role we take very seriously! We spent a month in Jordan last year, meticulously researching & vetting experiences for a group trip that would be truly one-of-a-kind. With the support of our amazing local partners @experiencejordanadventures and the BEST guide in Jordan @mahmoud_bdoul , we were able to bring this vision to life: a 10-day itinerary full of adventure, connection, flavour, and experiences that you simply won’t find on ANY other tour. 📣 If this sounds like your kinda trip, we’ll be returning to Jordan next year from 2-11 May with another group of intrepid explorers!! Spots sold out crazy fast last time, so make sure to join my BEYOND GROUP TRAVEL broadcast channel to be the first to hear when the trip goes live later this month! Or DM to be added to the waitlist 🎉✨ — #jordan #visitjordan #beyondjordan #grouptrip #jordantrail
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  • In a land of sand and stone, Jabreen Castle feels like a secret garden 🌺 — #oman #nizwa #castle #jabreencastle
  • WELCOME TO OMAN 🇴🇲✨ Nestled between the Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Sea, Oman unfolds in a tapestry of sand, stone & silence— a desert kingdom shaped by centuries of tradition. We spent 2 weeks road-tripping between ancient forts, sparkling wadis, golden dunes, and mud-brick villages seemingly lost in time. And while the natural beauty has completely astounded us (along with the near-total lack of people!), Oman is also the most conservative country we’ve ever visited—and it’s left us with very mixed feelings overall. It’s been heartbreaking to see posted signs declaring homosexuality a “crime”. To have a man approach James on the street (without even looking at ME) and say he should “tell his wife to cover her legs because they’re offending Allah”. To be forbidden to even hold hands in public. It’s brought up a lot of questions for us about the ethics of supporting tourism in places that deny basic rights and perpetuate hateful ideologies. But then again, if we only visited places with perfect human rights records, we’d never set foot in the US again, either… The world is a terrible and incredible and heartbreaking and beautiful place, all at once. So perhaps the best thing we can do is share a balanced perspective— the stunning views AND the hard truths about Oman. I’m curious to know how other people reconcile this in their travels… Would you travel somewhere that is fundamentally in misalignment with your values? — #oman #nizwa #muscat #middleeast
  • Welcome to Siwa Oasis, a shimmering mirage at the edge of the Sahara & perhaps the most unexpected corner of Egypt ✨ The only way to reach this tiny settlement is by driving nearly 10hrs from Cairo, but the lack of airport or easy connections does come with its benefits… Siwa is rustic, uncrowded, and blissfully untouched. A world all its own. — #egypt #siwaoasis #siwa
  • a small collection of our favourite temples in Upper Egypt 🤩✨ which would you want to visit first?? — #egypt #luxor #ancientegypt
  • Carved in the cliffs of Luxor’s West Bank lies the Valley of the Kings, the ancient necropolis where Egypt’s mighty pharaohs were entombed for eternity. From 1550–1070 BCE, more than 60 royal tombs were carved into the rock, their walls covered in vivid hieroglyphs and celestial maps to guide each ruler safely into the afterlife. Of all the incredible ancient sites in Luxor, the Valley of the Kings struck me the deepest. The colours are just so vivid and the art still feels so alive… a time-capsule that’s perfectly preserved 3000yrs of history. The wonder of it all literally brought me to tears 🥺 TIPS FOR VISITING 🎟️ there are usually ~12 tombs open at any given time & the standard ticket will get you into any 3 of the basic lot (while a few of the most special ones require an extra ticket) Which tombs to visit👇 🔹 Tomb of Ramses IV (KV2) — one of the best preserved, with a soaring barrel-vaulted ceiling painted deep blue and covered in golden stars 🔹 Tomb of Merneptah (KV8) — long, descending corridors lined with detailed reliefs that still show traces of their original colour 🔹 Tomb of Ramses III (KV11) — features striking battle scenes and the Book of Gates, illustrating the pharaoh’s journey through the night 🔹 Tomb of Ramses V/VI (KV9) — ($4 extra ticket) — the ceilings are covered in intricate astronomical scenes, including the Book of the Heavens. 🔹 Tomb of Seti I (KV17) — ($40 extra ticket) — the most exquisite of them all, with incredible depth, vivid paintwork, and intricate carvings that make it feel almost alive — #egypt #valleyofthekings #ancientegypt #luxor
In a land of sand and stone, Jabreen Castle feels like a secret garden 🌺 — #oman #nizwa #castle #jabreencastle
In a land of sand and stone, Jabreen Castle feels like a secret garden 🌺 — #oman #nizwa #castle #jabreencastle
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In a land of sand and stone, Jabreen Castle feels like a secret garden 🌺 — #oman #nizwa #castle #jabreencastle
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WELCOME TO OMAN 🇴🇲✨ Nestled between the Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Sea, Oman unfolds in a tapestry of sand, stone & silence— a desert kingdom shaped by centuries of tradition. We spent 2 weeks road-tripping between ancient forts, sparkling wadis, golden dunes, and mud-brick villages seemingly lost in time. And while the natural beauty has completely astounded us (along with the near-total lack of people!), Oman is also the most conservative country we’ve ever visited—and it’s left us with very mixed feelings overall. It’s been heartbreaking to see posted signs declaring homosexuality a “crime”. To have a man approach James on the street (without even looking at ME) and say he should “tell his wife to cover her legs because they’re offending Allah”. To be forbidden to even hold hands in public. It’s brought up a lot of questions for us about the ethics of supporting tourism in places that deny basic rights and perpetuate hateful ideologies. But then again, if we only visited places with perfect human rights records, we’d never set foot in the US again, either… The world is a terrible and incredible and heartbreaking and beautiful place, all at once. So perhaps the best thing we can do is share a balanced perspective— the stunning views AND the hard truths about Oman. I’m curious to know how other people reconcile this in their travels… Would you travel somewhere that is fundamentally in misalignment with your values? — #oman #nizwa #muscat #middleeast
WELCOME TO OMAN 🇴🇲✨ Nestled between the Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Sea, Oman unfolds in a tapestry of sand, stone & silence— a desert kingdom shaped by centuries of tradition. We spent 2 weeks road-tripping between ancient forts, sparkling wadis, golden dunes, and mud-brick villages seemingly lost in time. And while the natural beauty has completely astounded us (along with the near-total lack of people!), Oman is also the most conservative country we’ve ever visited—and it’s left us with very mixed feelings overall. It’s been heartbreaking to see posted signs declaring homosexuality a “crime”. To have a man approach James on the street (without even looking at ME) and say he should “tell his wife to cover her legs because they’re offending Allah”. To be forbidden to even hold hands in public. It’s brought up a lot of questions for us about the ethics of supporting tourism in places that deny basic rights and perpetuate hateful ideologies. But then again, if we only visited places with perfect human rights records, we’d never set foot in the US again, either… The world is a terrible and incredible and heartbreaking and beautiful place, all at once. So perhaps the best thing we can do is share a balanced perspective— the stunning views AND the hard truths about Oman. I’m curious to know how other people reconcile this in their travels… Would you travel somewhere that is fundamentally in misalignment with your values? — #oman #nizwa #muscat #middleeast
WELCOME TO OMAN 🇴🇲✨ Nestled between the Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Sea, Oman unfolds in a tapestry of sand, stone & silence— a desert kingdom shaped by centuries of tradition. We spent 2 weeks road-tripping between ancient forts, sparkling wadis, golden dunes, and mud-brick villages seemingly lost in time. And while the natural beauty has completely astounded us (along with the near-total lack of people!), Oman is also the most conservative country we’ve ever visited—and it’s left us with very mixed feelings overall. It’s been heartbreaking to see posted signs declaring homosexuality a “crime”. To have a man approach James on the street (without even looking at ME) and say he should “tell his wife to cover her legs because they’re offending Allah”. To be forbidden to even hold hands in public. It’s brought up a lot of questions for us about the ethics of supporting tourism in places that deny basic rights and perpetuate hateful ideologies. But then again, if we only visited places with perfect human rights records, we’d never set foot in the US again, either… The world is a terrible and incredible and heartbreaking and beautiful place, all at once. So perhaps the best thing we can do is share a balanced perspective— the stunning views AND the hard truths about Oman. I’m curious to know how other people reconcile this in their travels… Would you travel somewhere that is fundamentally in misalignment with your values? — #oman #nizwa #muscat #middleeast
WELCOME TO OMAN 🇴🇲✨ Nestled between the Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Sea, Oman unfolds in a tapestry of sand, stone & silence— a desert kingdom shaped by centuries of tradition. We spent 2 weeks road-tripping between ancient forts, sparkling wadis, golden dunes, and mud-brick villages seemingly lost in time. And while the natural beauty has completely astounded us (along with the near-total lack of people!), Oman is also the most conservative country we’ve ever visited—and it’s left us with very mixed feelings overall. It’s been heartbreaking to see posted signs declaring homosexuality a “crime”. To have a man approach James on the street (without even looking at ME) and say he should “tell his wife to cover her legs because they’re offending Allah”. To be forbidden to even hold hands in public. It’s brought up a lot of questions for us about the ethics of supporting tourism in places that deny basic rights and perpetuate hateful ideologies. But then again, if we only visited places with perfect human rights records, we’d never set foot in the US again, either… The world is a terrible and incredible and heartbreaking and beautiful place, all at once. So perhaps the best thing we can do is share a balanced perspective— the stunning views AND the hard truths about Oman. I’m curious to know how other people reconcile this in their travels… Would you travel somewhere that is fundamentally in misalignment with your values? — #oman #nizwa #muscat #middleeast
WELCOME TO OMAN 🇴🇲✨ Nestled between the Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Sea, Oman unfolds in a tapestry of sand, stone & silence— a desert kingdom shaped by centuries of tradition. We spent 2 weeks road-tripping between ancient forts, sparkling wadis, golden dunes, and mud-brick villages seemingly lost in time. And while the natural beauty has completely astounded us (along with the near-total lack of people!), Oman is also the most conservative country we’ve ever visited—and it’s left us with very mixed feelings overall. It’s been heartbreaking to see posted signs declaring homosexuality a “crime”. To have a man approach James on the street (without even looking at ME) and say he should “tell his wife to cover her legs because they’re offending Allah”. To be forbidden to even hold hands in public. It’s brought up a lot of questions for us about the ethics of supporting tourism in places that deny basic rights and perpetuate hateful ideologies. But then again, if we only visited places with perfect human rights records, we’d never set foot in the US again, either… The world is a terrible and incredible and heartbreaking and beautiful place, all at once. So perhaps the best thing we can do is share a balanced perspective— the stunning views AND the hard truths about Oman. I’m curious to know how other people reconcile this in their travels… Would you travel somewhere that is fundamentally in misalignment with your values? — #oman #nizwa #muscat #middleeast
WELCOME TO OMAN 🇴🇲✨ Nestled between the Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Sea, Oman unfolds in a tapestry of sand, stone & silence— a desert kingdom shaped by centuries of tradition. We spent 2 weeks road-tripping between ancient forts, sparkling wadis, golden dunes, and mud-brick villages seemingly lost in time. And while the natural beauty has completely astounded us (along with the near-total lack of people!), Oman is also the most conservative country we’ve ever visited—and it’s left us with very mixed feelings overall. It’s been heartbreaking to see posted signs declaring homosexuality a “crime”. To have a man approach James on the street (without even looking at ME) and say he should “tell his wife to cover her legs because they’re offending Allah”. To be forbidden to even hold hands in public. It’s brought up a lot of questions for us about the ethics of supporting tourism in places that deny basic rights and perpetuate hateful ideologies. But then again, if we only visited places with perfect human rights records, we’d never set foot in the US again, either… The world is a terrible and incredible and heartbreaking and beautiful place, all at once. So perhaps the best thing we can do is share a balanced perspective— the stunning views AND the hard truths about Oman. I’m curious to know how other people reconcile this in their travels… Would you travel somewhere that is fundamentally in misalignment with your values? — #oman #nizwa #muscat #middleeast
WELCOME TO OMAN 🇴🇲✨ Nestled between the Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Sea, Oman unfolds in a tapestry of sand, stone & silence— a desert kingdom shaped by centuries of tradition. We spent 2 weeks road-tripping between ancient forts, sparkling wadis, golden dunes, and mud-brick villages seemingly lost in time. And while the natural beauty has completely astounded us (along with the near-total lack of people!), Oman is also the most conservative country we’ve ever visited—and it’s left us with very mixed feelings overall. It’s been heartbreaking to see posted signs declaring homosexuality a “crime”. To have a man approach James on the street (without even looking at ME) and say he should “tell his wife to cover her legs because they’re offending Allah”. To be forbidden to even hold hands in public. It’s brought up a lot of questions for us about the ethics of supporting tourism in places that deny basic rights and perpetuate hateful ideologies. But then again, if we only visited places with perfect human rights records, we’d never set foot in the US again, either… The world is a terrible and incredible and heartbreaking and beautiful place, all at once. So perhaps the best thing we can do is share a balanced perspective— the stunning views AND the hard truths about Oman. I’m curious to know how other people reconcile this in their travels… Would you travel somewhere that is fundamentally in misalignment with your values? — #oman #nizwa #muscat #middleeast
WELCOME TO OMAN 🇴🇲✨ Nestled between the Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Sea, Oman unfolds in a tapestry of sand, stone & silence— a desert kingdom shaped by centuries of tradition. We spent 2 weeks road-tripping between ancient forts, sparkling wadis, golden dunes, and mud-brick villages seemingly lost in time. And while the natural beauty has completely astounded us (along with the near-total lack of people!), Oman is also the most conservative country we’ve ever visited—and it’s left us with very mixed feelings overall. It’s been heartbreaking to see posted signs declaring homosexuality a “crime”. To have a man approach James on the street (without even looking at ME) and say he should “tell his wife to cover her legs because they’re offending Allah”. To be forbidden to even hold hands in public. It’s brought up a lot of questions for us about the ethics of supporting tourism in places that deny basic rights and perpetuate hateful ideologies. But then again, if we only visited places with perfect human rights records, we’d never set foot in the US again, either… The world is a terrible and incredible and heartbreaking and beautiful place, all at once. So perhaps the best thing we can do is share a balanced perspective— the stunning views AND the hard truths about Oman. I’m curious to know how other people reconcile this in their travels… Would you travel somewhere that is fundamentally in misalignment with your values? — #oman #nizwa #muscat #middleeast
WELCOME TO OMAN 🇴🇲✨ Nestled between the Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Sea, Oman unfolds in a tapestry of sand, stone & silence— a desert kingdom shaped by centuries of tradition. We spent 2 weeks road-tripping between ancient forts, sparkling wadis, golden dunes, and mud-brick villages seemingly lost in time. And while the natural beauty has completely astounded us (along with the near-total lack of people!), Oman is also the most conservative country we’ve ever visited—and it’s left us with very mixed feelings overall. It’s been heartbreaking to see posted signs declaring homosexuality a “crime”. To have a man approach James on the street (without even looking at ME) and say he should “tell his wife to cover her legs because they’re offending Allah”. To be forbidden to even hold hands in public. It’s brought up a lot of questions for us about the ethics of supporting tourism in places that deny basic rights and perpetuate hateful ideologies. But then again, if we only visited places with perfect human rights records, we’d never set foot in the US again, either… The world is a terrible and incredible and heartbreaking and beautiful place, all at once. So perhaps the best thing we can do is share a balanced perspective— the stunning views AND the hard truths about Oman. I’m curious to know how other people reconcile this in their travels… Would you travel somewhere that is fundamentally in misalignment with your values? — #oman #nizwa #muscat #middleeast
WELCOME TO OMAN 🇴🇲✨ Nestled between the Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Sea, Oman unfolds in a tapestry of sand, stone & silence— a desert kingdom shaped by centuries of tradition. We spent 2 weeks road-tripping between ancient forts, sparkling wadis, golden dunes, and mud-brick villages seemingly lost in time. And while the natural beauty has completely astounded us (along with the near-total lack of people!), Oman is also the most conservative country we’ve ever visited—and it’s left us with very mixed feelings overall. It’s been heartbreaking to see posted signs declaring homosexuality a “crime”. To have a man approach James on the street (without even looking at ME) and say he should “tell his wife to cover her legs because they’re offending Allah”. To be forbidden to even hold hands in public. It’s brought up a lot of questions for us about the ethics of supporting tourism in places that deny basic rights and perpetuate hateful ideologies. But then again, if we only visited places with perfect human rights records, we’d never set foot in the US again, either… The world is a terrible and incredible and heartbreaking and beautiful place, all at once. So perhaps the best thing we can do is share a balanced perspective— the stunning views AND the hard truths about Oman. I’m curious to know how other people reconcile this in their travels… Would you travel somewhere that is fundamentally in misalignment with your values? — #oman #nizwa #muscat #middleeast
WELCOME TO OMAN 🇴🇲✨ Nestled between the Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Sea, Oman unfolds in a tapestry of sand, stone & silence— a desert kingdom shaped by centuries of tradition. We spent 2 weeks road-tripping between ancient forts, sparkling wadis, golden dunes, and mud-brick villages seemingly lost in time. And while the natural beauty has completely astounded us (along with the near-total lack of people!), Oman is also the most conservative country we’ve ever visited—and it’s left us with very mixed feelings overall. It’s been heartbreaking to see posted signs declaring homosexuality a “crime”. To have a man approach James on the street (without even looking at ME) and say he should “tell his wife to cover her legs because they’re offending Allah”. To be forbidden to even hold hands in public. It’s brought up a lot of questions for us about the ethics of supporting tourism in places that deny basic rights and perpetuate hateful ideologies. But then again, if we only visited places with perfect human rights records, we’d never set foot in the US again, either… The world is a terrible and incredible and heartbreaking and beautiful place, all at once. So perhaps the best thing we can do is share a balanced perspective— the stunning views AND the hard truths about Oman. I’m curious to know how other people reconcile this in their travels… Would you travel somewhere that is fundamentally in misalignment with your values? — #oman #nizwa #muscat #middleeast
WELCOME TO OMAN 🇴🇲✨ Nestled between the Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Sea, Oman unfolds in a tapestry of sand, stone & silence— a desert kingdom shaped by centuries of tradition. We spent 2 weeks road-tripping between ancient forts, sparkling wadis, golden dunes, and mud-brick villages seemingly lost in time. And while the natural beauty has completely astounded us (along with the near-total lack of people!), Oman is also the most conservative country we’ve ever visited—and it’s left us with very mixed feelings overall. It’s been heartbreaking to see posted signs declaring homosexuality a “crime”. To have a man approach James on the street (without even looking at ME) and say he should “tell his wife to cover her legs because they’re offending Allah”. To be forbidden to even hold hands in public. It’s brought up a lot of questions for us about the ethics of supporting tourism in places that deny basic rights and perpetuate hateful ideologies. But then again, if we only visited places with perfect human rights records, we’d never set foot in the US again, either… The world is a terrible and incredible and heartbreaking and beautiful place, all at once. So perhaps the best thing we can do is share a balanced perspective— the stunning views AND the hard truths about Oman. I’m curious to know how other people reconcile this in their travels… Would you travel somewhere that is fundamentally in misalignment with your values? — #oman #nizwa #muscat #middleeast
WELCOME TO OMAN 🇴🇲✨ Nestled between the Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Sea, Oman unfolds in a tapestry of sand, stone & silence— a desert kingdom shaped by centuries of tradition. We spent 2 weeks road-tripping between ancient forts, sparkling wadis, golden dunes, and mud-brick villages seemingly lost in time. And while the natural beauty has completely astounded us (along with the near-total lack of people!), Oman is also the most conservative country we’ve ever visited—and it’s left us with very mixed feelings overall. It’s been heartbreaking to see posted signs declaring homosexuality a “crime”. To have a man approach James on the street (without even looking at ME) and say he should “tell his wife to cover her legs because they’re offending Allah”. To be forbidden to even hold hands in public. It’s brought up a lot of questions for us about the ethics of supporting tourism in places that deny basic rights and perpetuate hateful ideologies. But then again, if we only visited places with perfect human rights records, we’d never set foot in the US again, either… The world is a terrible and incredible and heartbreaking and beautiful place, all at once. So perhaps the best thing we can do is share a balanced perspective— the stunning views AND the hard truths about Oman. I’m curious to know how other people reconcile this in their travels… Would you travel somewhere that is fundamentally in misalignment with your values? — #oman #nizwa #muscat #middleeast
WELCOME TO OMAN 🇴🇲✨ Nestled between the Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Sea, Oman unfolds in a tapestry of sand, stone & silence— a desert kingdom shaped by centuries of tradition. We spent 2 weeks road-tripping between ancient forts, sparkling wadis, golden dunes, and mud-brick villages seemingly lost in time. And while the natural beauty has completely astounded us (along with the near-total lack of people!), Oman is also the most conservative country we’ve ever visited—and it’s left us with very mixed feelings overall. It’s been heartbreaking to see posted signs declaring homosexuality a “crime”. To have a man approach James on the street (without even looking at ME) and say he should “tell his wife to cover her legs because they’re offending Allah”. To be forbidden to even hold hands in public. It’s brought up a lot of questions for us about the ethics of supporting tourism in places that deny basic rights and perpetuate hateful ideologies. But then again, if we only visited places with perfect human rights records, we’d never set foot in the US again, either… The world is a terrible and incredible and heartbreaking and beautiful place, all at once. So perhaps the best thing we can do is share a balanced perspective— the stunning views AND the hard truths about Oman. I’m curious to know how other people reconcile this in their travels… Would you travel somewhere that is fundamentally in misalignment with your values? — #oman #nizwa #muscat #middleeast
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WELCOME TO OMAN 🇴🇲✨ Nestled between the Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Sea, Oman unfolds in a tapestry of sand, stone & silence— a desert kingdom shaped by centuries of tradition. We spent 2 weeks road-tripping between ancient forts, sparkling wadis, golden dunes, and mud-brick villages seemingly lost in time. And while the natural beauty has completely astounded us (along with the near-total lack of people!), Oman is also the most conservative country we’ve ever visited—and it’s left us with very mixed feelings overall. It’s been heartbreaking to see posted signs declaring homosexuality a “crime”. To have a man approach James on the street (without even looking at ME) and say he should “tell his wife to cover her legs because they’re offending Allah”. To be forbidden to even hold hands in public. It’s brought up a lot of questions for us about the ethics of supporting tourism in places that deny basic rights and perpetuate hateful ideologies. But then again, if we only visited places with perfect human rights records, we’d never set foot in the US again, either… The world is a terrible and incredible and heartbreaking and beautiful place, all at once. So perhaps the best thing we can do is share a balanced perspective— the stunning views AND the hard truths about Oman. I’m curious to know how other people reconcile this in their travels… Would you travel somewhere that is fundamentally in misalignment with your values? — #oman #nizwa #muscat #middleeast
5 days ago
View on Instagram |
2/5
Welcome to Siwa Oasis, a shimmering mirage at the edge of the Sahara & perhaps the most unexpected corner of Egypt ✨ The only way to reach this tiny settlement is by driving nearly 10hrs from Cairo, but the lack of airport or easy connections does come with its benefits… Siwa is rustic, uncrowded, and blissfully untouched. A world all its own. — #egypt #siwaoasis #siwa
Welcome to Siwa Oasis, a shimmering mirage at the edge of the Sahara & perhaps the most unexpected corner of Egypt ✨ The only way to reach this tiny settlement is by driving nearly 10hrs from Cairo, but the lack of airport or easy connections does come with its benefits… Siwa is rustic, uncrowded, and blissfully untouched. A world all its own. — #egypt #siwaoasis #siwa
Welcome to Siwa Oasis, a shimmering mirage at the edge of the Sahara & perhaps the most unexpected corner of Egypt ✨ The only way to reach this tiny settlement is by driving nearly 10hrs from Cairo, but the lack of airport or easy connections does come with its benefits… Siwa is rustic, uncrowded, and blissfully untouched. A world all its own. — #egypt #siwaoasis #siwa
Welcome to Siwa Oasis, a shimmering mirage at the edge of the Sahara & perhaps the most unexpected corner of Egypt ✨ The only way to reach this tiny settlement is by driving nearly 10hrs from Cairo, but the lack of airport or easy connections does come with its benefits… Siwa is rustic, uncrowded, and blissfully untouched. A world all its own. — #egypt #siwaoasis #siwa
Welcome to Siwa Oasis, a shimmering mirage at the edge of the Sahara & perhaps the most unexpected corner of Egypt ✨ The only way to reach this tiny settlement is by driving nearly 10hrs from Cairo, but the lack of airport or easy connections does come with its benefits… Siwa is rustic, uncrowded, and blissfully untouched. A world all its own. — #egypt #siwaoasis #siwa
Welcome to Siwa Oasis, a shimmering mirage at the edge of the Sahara & perhaps the most unexpected corner of Egypt ✨ The only way to reach this tiny settlement is by driving nearly 10hrs from Cairo, but the lack of airport or easy connections does come with its benefits… Siwa is rustic, uncrowded, and blissfully untouched. A world all its own. — #egypt #siwaoasis #siwa
Welcome to Siwa Oasis, a shimmering mirage at the edge of the Sahara & perhaps the most unexpected corner of Egypt ✨ The only way to reach this tiny settlement is by driving nearly 10hrs from Cairo, but the lack of airport or easy connections does come with its benefits… Siwa is rustic, uncrowded, and blissfully untouched. A world all its own. — #egypt #siwaoasis #siwa
Welcome to Siwa Oasis, a shimmering mirage at the edge of the Sahara & perhaps the most unexpected corner of Egypt ✨ The only way to reach this tiny settlement is by driving nearly 10hrs from Cairo, but the lack of airport or easy connections does come with its benefits… Siwa is rustic, uncrowded, and blissfully untouched. A world all its own. — #egypt #siwaoasis #siwa
Welcome to Siwa Oasis, a shimmering mirage at the edge of the Sahara & perhaps the most unexpected corner of Egypt ✨ The only way to reach this tiny settlement is by driving nearly 10hrs from Cairo, but the lack of airport or easy connections does come with its benefits… Siwa is rustic, uncrowded, and blissfully untouched. A world all its own. — #egypt #siwaoasis #siwa
Welcome to Siwa Oasis, a shimmering mirage at the edge of the Sahara & perhaps the most unexpected corner of Egypt ✨ The only way to reach this tiny settlement is by driving nearly 10hrs from Cairo, but the lack of airport or easy connections does come with its benefits… Siwa is rustic, uncrowded, and blissfully untouched. A world all its own. — #egypt #siwaoasis #siwa
Welcome to Siwa Oasis, a shimmering mirage at the edge of the Sahara & perhaps the most unexpected corner of Egypt ✨ The only way to reach this tiny settlement is by driving nearly 10hrs from Cairo, but the lack of airport or easy connections does come with its benefits… Siwa is rustic, uncrowded, and blissfully untouched. A world all its own. — #egypt #siwaoasis #siwa
Welcome to Siwa Oasis, a shimmering mirage at the edge of the Sahara & perhaps the most unexpected corner of Egypt ✨ The only way to reach this tiny settlement is by driving nearly 10hrs from Cairo, but the lack of airport or easy connections does come with its benefits… Siwa is rustic, uncrowded, and blissfully untouched. A world all its own. — #egypt #siwaoasis #siwa
@brookebeyond_
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Welcome to Siwa Oasis, a shimmering mirage at the edge of the Sahara & perhaps the most unexpected corner of Egypt ✨ The only way to reach this tiny settlement is by driving nearly 10hrs from Cairo, but the lack of airport or easy connections does come with its benefits… Siwa is rustic, uncrowded, and blissfully untouched. A world all its own. — #egypt #siwaoasis #siwa
6 days ago
View on Instagram |
3/5
a small collection of our favourite temples in Upper Egypt 🤩✨ which would you want to visit first?? — #egypt #luxor #ancientegypt
a small collection of our favourite temples in Upper Egypt 🤩✨ which would you want to visit first?? — #egypt #luxor #ancientegypt
a small collection of our favourite temples in Upper Egypt 🤩✨ which would you want to visit first?? — #egypt #luxor #ancientegypt
a small collection of our favourite temples in Upper Egypt 🤩✨ which would you want to visit first?? — #egypt #luxor #ancientegypt
a small collection of our favourite temples in Upper Egypt 🤩✨ which would you want to visit first?? — #egypt #luxor #ancientegypt
a small collection of our favourite temples in Upper Egypt 🤩✨ which would you want to visit first?? — #egypt #luxor #ancientegypt
a small collection of our favourite temples in Upper Egypt 🤩✨ which would you want to visit first?? — #egypt #luxor #ancientegypt
a small collection of our favourite temples in Upper Egypt 🤩✨ which would you want to visit first?? — #egypt #luxor #ancientegypt
@brookebeyond_
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a small collection of our favourite temples in Upper Egypt 🤩✨ which would you want to visit first?? — #egypt #luxor #ancientegypt
1 week ago
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4/5
Carved in the cliffs of Luxor’s West Bank lies the Valley of the Kings, the ancient necropolis where Egypt’s mighty pharaohs were entombed for eternity. From 1550–1070 BCE, more than 60 royal tombs were carved into the rock, their walls covered in vivid hieroglyphs and celestial maps to guide each ruler safely into the afterlife. Of all the incredible ancient sites in Luxor, the Valley of the Kings struck me the deepest. The colours are just so vivid and the art still feels so alive… a time-capsule that’s perfectly preserved 3000yrs of history. The wonder of it all literally brought me to tears 🥺 TIPS FOR VISITING 🎟️ there are usually ~12 tombs open at any given time & the standard ticket will get you into any 3 of the basic lot (while a few of the most special ones require an extra ticket) Which tombs to visit👇 🔹 Tomb of Ramses IV (KV2) — one of the best preserved, with a soaring barrel-vaulted ceiling painted deep blue and covered in golden stars 🔹 Tomb of Merneptah (KV8) — long, descending corridors lined with detailed reliefs that still show traces of their original colour 🔹 Tomb of Ramses III (KV11) — features striking battle scenes and the Book of Gates, illustrating the pharaoh’s journey through the night 🔹 Tomb of Ramses V/VI (KV9) — ($4 extra ticket) — the ceilings are covered in intricate astronomical scenes, including the Book of the Heavens. 🔹 Tomb of Seti I (KV17) — ($40 extra ticket) — the most exquisite of them all, with incredible depth, vivid paintwork, and intricate carvings that make it feel almost alive — #egypt #valleyofthekings #ancientegypt #luxor
Carved in the cliffs of Luxor’s West Bank lies the Valley of the Kings, the ancient necropolis where Egypt’s mighty pharaohs were entombed for eternity. From 1550–1070 BCE, more than 60 royal tombs were carved into the rock, their walls covered in vivid hieroglyphs and celestial maps to guide each ruler safely into the afterlife. Of all the incredible ancient sites in Luxor, the Valley of the Kings struck me the deepest. The colours are just so vivid and the art still feels so alive… a time-capsule that’s perfectly preserved 3000yrs of history. The wonder of it all literally brought me to tears 🥺 TIPS FOR VISITING 🎟️ there are usually ~12 tombs open at any given time & the standard ticket will get you into any 3 of the basic lot (while a few of the most special ones require an extra ticket) Which tombs to visit👇 🔹 Tomb of Ramses IV (KV2) — one of the best preserved, with a soaring barrel-vaulted ceiling painted deep blue and covered in golden stars 🔹 Tomb of Merneptah (KV8) — long, descending corridors lined with detailed reliefs that still show traces of their original colour 🔹 Tomb of Ramses III (KV11) — features striking battle scenes and the Book of Gates, illustrating the pharaoh’s journey through the night 🔹 Tomb of Ramses V/VI (KV9) — ($4 extra ticket) — the ceilings are covered in intricate astronomical scenes, including the Book of the Heavens. 🔹 Tomb of Seti I (KV17) — ($40 extra ticket) — the most exquisite of them all, with incredible depth, vivid paintwork, and intricate carvings that make it feel almost alive — #egypt #valleyofthekings #ancientegypt #luxor
Carved in the cliffs of Luxor’s West Bank lies the Valley of the Kings, the ancient necropolis where Egypt’s mighty pharaohs were entombed for eternity. From 1550–1070 BCE, more than 60 royal tombs were carved into the rock, their walls covered in vivid hieroglyphs and celestial maps to guide each ruler safely into the afterlife. Of all the incredible ancient sites in Luxor, the Valley of the Kings struck me the deepest. The colours are just so vivid and the art still feels so alive… a time-capsule that’s perfectly preserved 3000yrs of history. The wonder of it all literally brought me to tears 🥺 TIPS FOR VISITING 🎟️ there are usually ~12 tombs open at any given time & the standard ticket will get you into any 3 of the basic lot (while a few of the most special ones require an extra ticket) Which tombs to visit👇 🔹 Tomb of Ramses IV (KV2) — one of the best preserved, with a soaring barrel-vaulted ceiling painted deep blue and covered in golden stars 🔹 Tomb of Merneptah (KV8) — long, descending corridors lined with detailed reliefs that still show traces of their original colour 🔹 Tomb of Ramses III (KV11) — features striking battle scenes and the Book of Gates, illustrating the pharaoh’s journey through the night 🔹 Tomb of Ramses V/VI (KV9) — ($4 extra ticket) — the ceilings are covered in intricate astronomical scenes, including the Book of the Heavens. 🔹 Tomb of Seti I (KV17) — ($40 extra ticket) — the most exquisite of them all, with incredible depth, vivid paintwork, and intricate carvings that make it feel almost alive — #egypt #valleyofthekings #ancientegypt #luxor
Carved in the cliffs of Luxor’s West Bank lies the Valley of the Kings, the ancient necropolis where Egypt’s mighty pharaohs were entombed for eternity. From 1550–1070 BCE, more than 60 royal tombs were carved into the rock, their walls covered in vivid hieroglyphs and celestial maps to guide each ruler safely into the afterlife. Of all the incredible ancient sites in Luxor, the Valley of the Kings struck me the deepest. The colours are just so vivid and the art still feels so alive… a time-capsule that’s perfectly preserved 3000yrs of history. The wonder of it all literally brought me to tears 🥺 TIPS FOR VISITING 🎟️ there are usually ~12 tombs open at any given time & the standard ticket will get you into any 3 of the basic lot (while a few of the most special ones require an extra ticket) Which tombs to visit👇 🔹 Tomb of Ramses IV (KV2) — one of the best preserved, with a soaring barrel-vaulted ceiling painted deep blue and covered in golden stars 🔹 Tomb of Merneptah (KV8) — long, descending corridors lined with detailed reliefs that still show traces of their original colour 🔹 Tomb of Ramses III (KV11) — features striking battle scenes and the Book of Gates, illustrating the pharaoh’s journey through the night 🔹 Tomb of Ramses V/VI (KV9) — ($4 extra ticket) — the ceilings are covered in intricate astronomical scenes, including the Book of the Heavens. 🔹 Tomb of Seti I (KV17) — ($40 extra ticket) — the most exquisite of them all, with incredible depth, vivid paintwork, and intricate carvings that make it feel almost alive — #egypt #valleyofthekings #ancientegypt #luxor
Carved in the cliffs of Luxor’s West Bank lies the Valley of the Kings, the ancient necropolis where Egypt’s mighty pharaohs were entombed for eternity. From 1550–1070 BCE, more than 60 royal tombs were carved into the rock, their walls covered in vivid hieroglyphs and celestial maps to guide each ruler safely into the afterlife. Of all the incredible ancient sites in Luxor, the Valley of the Kings struck me the deepest. The colours are just so vivid and the art still feels so alive… a time-capsule that’s perfectly preserved 3000yrs of history. The wonder of it all literally brought me to tears 🥺 TIPS FOR VISITING 🎟️ there are usually ~12 tombs open at any given time & the standard ticket will get you into any 3 of the basic lot (while a few of the most special ones require an extra ticket) Which tombs to visit👇 🔹 Tomb of Ramses IV (KV2) — one of the best preserved, with a soaring barrel-vaulted ceiling painted deep blue and covered in golden stars 🔹 Tomb of Merneptah (KV8) — long, descending corridors lined with detailed reliefs that still show traces of their original colour 🔹 Tomb of Ramses III (KV11) — features striking battle scenes and the Book of Gates, illustrating the pharaoh’s journey through the night 🔹 Tomb of Ramses V/VI (KV9) — ($4 extra ticket) — the ceilings are covered in intricate astronomical scenes, including the Book of the Heavens. 🔹 Tomb of Seti I (KV17) — ($40 extra ticket) — the most exquisite of them all, with incredible depth, vivid paintwork, and intricate carvings that make it feel almost alive — #egypt #valleyofthekings #ancientegypt #luxor
Carved in the cliffs of Luxor’s West Bank lies the Valley of the Kings, the ancient necropolis where Egypt’s mighty pharaohs were entombed for eternity. From 1550–1070 BCE, more than 60 royal tombs were carved into the rock, their walls covered in vivid hieroglyphs and celestial maps to guide each ruler safely into the afterlife. Of all the incredible ancient sites in Luxor, the Valley of the Kings struck me the deepest. The colours are just so vivid and the art still feels so alive… a time-capsule that’s perfectly preserved 3000yrs of history. The wonder of it all literally brought me to tears 🥺 TIPS FOR VISITING 🎟️ there are usually ~12 tombs open at any given time & the standard ticket will get you into any 3 of the basic lot (while a few of the most special ones require an extra ticket) Which tombs to visit👇 🔹 Tomb of Ramses IV (KV2) — one of the best preserved, with a soaring barrel-vaulted ceiling painted deep blue and covered in golden stars 🔹 Tomb of Merneptah (KV8) — long, descending corridors lined with detailed reliefs that still show traces of their original colour 🔹 Tomb of Ramses III (KV11) — features striking battle scenes and the Book of Gates, illustrating the pharaoh’s journey through the night 🔹 Tomb of Ramses V/VI (KV9) — ($4 extra ticket) — the ceilings are covered in intricate astronomical scenes, including the Book of the Heavens. 🔹 Tomb of Seti I (KV17) — ($40 extra ticket) — the most exquisite of them all, with incredible depth, vivid paintwork, and intricate carvings that make it feel almost alive — #egypt #valleyofthekings #ancientegypt #luxor
Carved in the cliffs of Luxor’s West Bank lies the Valley of the Kings, the ancient necropolis where Egypt’s mighty pharaohs were entombed for eternity. From 1550–1070 BCE, more than 60 royal tombs were carved into the rock, their walls covered in vivid hieroglyphs and celestial maps to guide each ruler safely into the afterlife. Of all the incredible ancient sites in Luxor, the Valley of the Kings struck me the deepest. The colours are just so vivid and the art still feels so alive… a time-capsule that’s perfectly preserved 3000yrs of history. The wonder of it all literally brought me to tears 🥺 TIPS FOR VISITING 🎟️ there are usually ~12 tombs open at any given time & the standard ticket will get you into any 3 of the basic lot (while a few of the most special ones require an extra ticket) Which tombs to visit👇 🔹 Tomb of Ramses IV (KV2) — one of the best preserved, with a soaring barrel-vaulted ceiling painted deep blue and covered in golden stars 🔹 Tomb of Merneptah (KV8) — long, descending corridors lined with detailed reliefs that still show traces of their original colour 🔹 Tomb of Ramses III (KV11) — features striking battle scenes and the Book of Gates, illustrating the pharaoh’s journey through the night 🔹 Tomb of Ramses V/VI (KV9) — ($4 extra ticket) — the ceilings are covered in intricate astronomical scenes, including the Book of the Heavens. 🔹 Tomb of Seti I (KV17) — ($40 extra ticket) — the most exquisite of them all, with incredible depth, vivid paintwork, and intricate carvings that make it feel almost alive — #egypt #valleyofthekings #ancientegypt #luxor
Carved in the cliffs of Luxor’s West Bank lies the Valley of the Kings, the ancient necropolis where Egypt’s mighty pharaohs were entombed for eternity. From 1550–1070 BCE, more than 60 royal tombs were carved into the rock, their walls covered in vivid hieroglyphs and celestial maps to guide each ruler safely into the afterlife. Of all the incredible ancient sites in Luxor, the Valley of the Kings struck me the deepest. The colours are just so vivid and the art still feels so alive… a time-capsule that’s perfectly preserved 3000yrs of history. The wonder of it all literally brought me to tears 🥺 TIPS FOR VISITING 🎟️ there are usually ~12 tombs open at any given time & the standard ticket will get you into any 3 of the basic lot (while a few of the most special ones require an extra ticket) Which tombs to visit👇 🔹 Tomb of Ramses IV (KV2) — one of the best preserved, with a soaring barrel-vaulted ceiling painted deep blue and covered in golden stars 🔹 Tomb of Merneptah (KV8) — long, descending corridors lined with detailed reliefs that still show traces of their original colour 🔹 Tomb of Ramses III (KV11) — features striking battle scenes and the Book of Gates, illustrating the pharaoh’s journey through the night 🔹 Tomb of Ramses V/VI (KV9) — ($4 extra ticket) — the ceilings are covered in intricate astronomical scenes, including the Book of the Heavens. 🔹 Tomb of Seti I (KV17) — ($40 extra ticket) — the most exquisite of them all, with incredible depth, vivid paintwork, and intricate carvings that make it feel almost alive — #egypt #valleyofthekings #ancientegypt #luxor
Carved in the cliffs of Luxor’s West Bank lies the Valley of the Kings, the ancient necropolis where Egypt’s mighty pharaohs were entombed for eternity. From 1550–1070 BCE, more than 60 royal tombs were carved into the rock, their walls covered in vivid hieroglyphs and celestial maps to guide each ruler safely into the afterlife. Of all the incredible ancient sites in Luxor, the Valley of the Kings struck me the deepest. The colours are just so vivid and the art still feels so alive… a time-capsule that’s perfectly preserved 3000yrs of history. The wonder of it all literally brought me to tears 🥺 TIPS FOR VISITING 🎟️ there are usually ~12 tombs open at any given time & the standard ticket will get you into any 3 of the basic lot (while a few of the most special ones require an extra ticket) Which tombs to visit👇 🔹 Tomb of Ramses IV (KV2) — one of the best preserved, with a soaring barrel-vaulted ceiling painted deep blue and covered in golden stars 🔹 Tomb of Merneptah (KV8) — long, descending corridors lined with detailed reliefs that still show traces of their original colour 🔹 Tomb of Ramses III (KV11) — features striking battle scenes and the Book of Gates, illustrating the pharaoh’s journey through the night 🔹 Tomb of Ramses V/VI (KV9) — ($4 extra ticket) — the ceilings are covered in intricate astronomical scenes, including the Book of the Heavens. 🔹 Tomb of Seti I (KV17) — ($40 extra ticket) — the most exquisite of them all, with incredible depth, vivid paintwork, and intricate carvings that make it feel almost alive — #egypt #valleyofthekings #ancientegypt #luxor
Carved in the cliffs of Luxor’s West Bank lies the Valley of the Kings, the ancient necropolis where Egypt’s mighty pharaohs were entombed for eternity. From 1550–1070 BCE, more than 60 royal tombs were carved into the rock, their walls covered in vivid hieroglyphs and celestial maps to guide each ruler safely into the afterlife. Of all the incredible ancient sites in Luxor, the Valley of the Kings struck me the deepest. The colours are just so vivid and the art still feels so alive… a time-capsule that’s perfectly preserved 3000yrs of history. The wonder of it all literally brought me to tears 🥺 TIPS FOR VISITING 🎟️ there are usually ~12 tombs open at any given time & the standard ticket will get you into any 3 of the basic lot (while a few of the most special ones require an extra ticket) Which tombs to visit👇 🔹 Tomb of Ramses IV (KV2) — one of the best preserved, with a soaring barrel-vaulted ceiling painted deep blue and covered in golden stars 🔹 Tomb of Merneptah (KV8) — long, descending corridors lined with detailed reliefs that still show traces of their original colour 🔹 Tomb of Ramses III (KV11) — features striking battle scenes and the Book of Gates, illustrating the pharaoh’s journey through the night 🔹 Tomb of Ramses V/VI (KV9) — ($4 extra ticket) — the ceilings are covered in intricate astronomical scenes, including the Book of the Heavens. 🔹 Tomb of Seti I (KV17) — ($40 extra ticket) — the most exquisite of them all, with incredible depth, vivid paintwork, and intricate carvings that make it feel almost alive — #egypt #valleyofthekings #ancientegypt #luxor
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Carved in the cliffs of Luxor’s West Bank lies the Valley of the Kings, the ancient necropolis where Egypt’s mighty pharaohs were entombed for eternity. From 1550–1070 BCE, more than 60 royal tombs were carved into the rock, their walls covered in vivid hieroglyphs and celestial maps to guide each ruler safely into the afterlife. Of all the incredible ancient sites in Luxor, the Valley of the Kings struck me the deepest. The colours are just so vivid and the art still feels so alive… a time-capsule that’s perfectly preserved 3000yrs of history. The wonder of it all literally brought me to tears 🥺 TIPS FOR VISITING 🎟️ there are usually ~12 tombs open at any given time & the standard ticket will get you into any 3 of the basic lot (while a few of the most special ones require an extra ticket) Which tombs to visit👇 🔹 Tomb of Ramses IV (KV2) — one of the best preserved, with a soaring barrel-vaulted ceiling painted deep blue and covered in golden stars 🔹 Tomb of Merneptah (KV8) — long, descending corridors lined with detailed reliefs that still show traces of their original colour 🔹 Tomb of Ramses III (KV11) — features striking battle scenes and the Book of Gates, illustrating the pharaoh’s journey through the night 🔹 Tomb of Ramses V/VI (KV9) — ($4 extra ticket) — the ceilings are covered in intricate astronomical scenes, including the Book of the Heavens. 🔹 Tomb of Seti I (KV17) — ($40 extra ticket) — the most exquisite of them all, with incredible depth, vivid paintwork, and intricate carvings that make it feel almost alive — #egypt #valleyofthekings #ancientegypt #luxor
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