Exploring the Horizon of Khufu
Down in the deep recesses of the CF Chinook Centre one can uncover the mysteries that archeologists and anthropologists have been studying for centuries. An ancient Egyptian pyramid known as Khufu is waiting for the public to explore its deep corridors and discover the history behind it. And there is a lot of adventure to be had when you are magically transported to Egypt in your own backyard. We have this virtual reality experience called, “the Horizons of Khufu” by PHI studios to thank for it.
Upon entering the friendly staff will take your tickets and give you a quick spiel about where the lockers are, how you need to sign the iPad waivers, and the lineup you need to be in to start your exhibition. But let’s face it, the adventure cannot start without taking pictures in front of the giant mural of the Nile with a boat and a sunset. Kind of romantic, right?
With the waivers signed, and a quick instructional video watched, the staff will help you with your virtual reality headsets. Suddenly you are no longer in a white room with abstract black pictures but you are surrounded with images that bring you into a whole new world. It starts with blank images and a slight tutorial but in mere seconds you will find yourself outside of the Khufu Pyramid in modern-day Cairo, Egypt.
It is a starry-filled night, the kind of night that you know that something interesting is going to happen. Flaming torches light your way and suddenly you are introduced to a brilliant bubbly Egyptology student named Mona who is going to guide you on your amazing journey. But she is not going to be the only one to entertain and educate you. A very special guest will appear and take you places that you never thought you would see.
This experience is only 45 minutes but it is worth every penny at $35-$40. What you see, and what you go through seems so real that you often have to do a double take or watch your step to make sure that you are not going to fall off the pyramid. The graphics are just that beautiful, the characters you meet are not just entertaining but give you a great look into what the King of Khufu’s story is. If you are looking for something educational without being some kind of long-drawn lecture then this is what you need to see.
This experience is a love letter to those who have a passion for history, mythology, or even travel. A great way for most ages and abilities to immerse themselves in a world full of wonders. One tends to get disappointed when the ride is over and it is time to say good-bye to the characters that you got to know in such a short time but sadly, it does. Never-the-less you can stop at their gift shop and get a little something to remember your day by. A good suggestion is “A Child’s Introduction to Egyptology” (here’s a hint: You don’t have to be a child).
It's here until the end of January so if you ever need a small but affordable break from everyday life get your tickets here
Guest Blog by: Erika Ravensborg, freelance writer