Kom Ombo Temple
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Although the visible structure is Ptolemaic and Roman, the core of the temple dates back to ancient Egyptian times.
The temple took nearly 400 years to complete, much longer than similar temples of the era. This extended timeline may be due to seasonal construction during the low Nile season, or the temple’s proximity to major pilgrimage sites such as Edfu and Philae, which diverted resources and attention.
Kom Ombo was completely buried under soil and sand for centuries, which helped preserve its carvings, colors, and fine artistic details. Thanks to this preservation, it contains some of the most beautiful reliefs of the Ptolemaic world.
In the rear section of the temple is one of ancient Egypt’s most remarkable reliefs — the catalog of surgical tools, including scalpels, forceps, scissors, hooks, suction devices, and birthing chairs.
This scene highlights the advanced medical knowledge of the pharaohs.
A striking relief shows the goddess Maat (Justice) dividing the temple between Horus and Sobek, symbolizing cosmic balance and harmony between the two deities.
The temple still contains the remains of a Nilometer, an ancient system used to measure the Nile flood levels. Priests used these measurements to help determine tax levels based on agricultural expectations.
Near the temple, archaeologists discovered a remarkable cemetery of mummified crocodiles, honoring the god Sobek. These are now beautifully displayed in the Crocodile Mummies Museum beside the temple.
Find quick answers to the most common questions about your trip. Our FAQ section covers everything from travel requirements and safety tips to local customs and currency information. Interested to know more? Contact Us!
Licensed tour guides must maintain a certification from the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, along with membership in the Egyptian General Tourist Guide Syndicate. These certifications ensure that our guides are fully approved and registered as professionals with the Egyptian government authorities.
The busiest tourist season is from September to April. The weather in Egypt is generally sunny and dry, with lower temperatures in the winter months that make for pleasant travel through Upper Egypt.
Tipping is greatly appreciated, based on the quality of the service you receive. We suggest around $5-$8 per day for your driver, and $10-$15 per day for guides. Tipping can be done in cash, either as Egyptian pounds, US dollars or Euros. For non-Egyptian currency, bills in good condition (no rips or tears) are preferred.
You can get a 30-day tourist visa upon arriving at Cairo Airport. Please bring $25 in USD cash with you; you will get the visa documentation before the immigration desk at the airport, and the immigration officials will review and stamp your passport. Our staff will meet you after you disembark the plane to facilitate this process and ensure you are able to get through security smoothly.
Most tours can be walking-intensive, primarily on flat ground. Visiting the Pyramids and the Sphinx requires some walking over flat but uneven ground and sand. Entry into many of the tombs and Pyramids can be physically demanding, with low ceilings, steep staircases and narrow passageways.
Each day’s tour is a full day, estimating 8 to 10 hours - though we have built in plenty of time to rest, enjoy a coffee or a meal, or explore on your own.
Comfortable, closed-toe walking or athletic shoes are recommended as there may be areas with uneven pavement. Locals in Egypt often dress modestly, so visitors often feel more comfortable in clothes that cover their shoulders and knees (t-shirts or long sleeved shirts, capris, pants). You may wish to bring a hat for sun protection, as well as a scarf or light jacket for evening.