Luxor Day Trip
Journey back in time on an unforgettable day trip to Luxor, exploring ancient temples, pharaohs' tombs, and the majestic Nile.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds
Luxor Day Trip
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Journey back in time on an unforgettable day trip to Luxor, exploring ancient temples, pharaohs' tombs, and the majestic Nile.
"A truly awe-inspiring experience, stepping into the grandeur of ancient Egypt on a Luxor day trip."
🎯 Book a Private Tour
Offers flexibility, comfort, and personalized attention. Many reviewers rave about private tours.
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Luxor is extremely hot. Carry plenty of water and accept offered drinks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Karnak Temple Complex
East Bank of Luxor
The largest religious building ever constructed. Wander through its vast hypostyle hall and towering obelisks.
Valley of the Kings
West Bank of Luxor
Explore the elaborate tombs of pharaohs, including Tutankhamun's, adorned with ancient hieroglyphs.
Temple of Hatshepsut
West Bank of Luxor
A stunning mortuary temple with a unique terraced design, dedicated to the powerful female pharaoh.
Colossi of Memnon
West Bank of Luxor
Two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, standing guard over the Theban Necropolis.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Early Start is Key
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book a Private Tour
Offers flexibility, comfort, and personalized attention. Many reviewers rave about private tours.
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Luxor is extremely hot. Carry plenty of water and accept offered drinks.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. Prioritize comfort!
☀️ Sun Protection
Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential for the intense Egyptian sun.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book a Private Tour
Offers flexibility, comfort, and personalized attention. Many reviewers rave about private tours.
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Luxor is extremely hot. Carry plenty of water and accept offered drinks.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. Prioritize comfort!
☀️ Sun Protection
Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential for the intense Egyptian sun.
💰 Budget for Souvenirs
Alabaster workshops and local shops offer unique items. Bargaining is common.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Luxor day trips for their historical significance and awe-inspiring ancient sites. The organization of private tours, knowledgeable guides, and included meals are frequently highlighted as positives. However, the long travel time and intense heat, especially during summer months, are common drawbacks that travelers should be prepared for.
"We recently had a private tour of Luxor as a family, and it was a fantastic experience. The reservation process was smooth and done via WhatsApp. The owner, Tamer, took care of all the arrangements for us.
He also informed us in advance that our hotel would prepare breakfast bags, which was very thoughtful and convenient.
On the day of the tour, we were picked up at 4:30 AM. We appreciated that there were two drivers, Samuel and Biro, who took turns every couple of hours to stay well-rested and alert during the long journey.
Around 9 AM, we met our guide Aiman, who took us through an incredible itinerary: Karnak Temple, a pleasant boat ride, the Colossi of Memnon, the Temple of Hatshepsut, and the Valley of the Kings. Along the way, we also stopped at a local shop that sells alabaster and other stone souvenirs. The demonstration of how alabaster is crafted was both informative and entertaining. Our son especially enjoyed it and still talks about the experience.
The weather was intensely hot—around 43°C—but we were consistently provided with cold water and other refreshing drinks, which was much appreciated.
After visiting Karnak Temple and enjoying the boat ride, we stopped for lunch at a local spot called Paris Restaurant. We sat on the third floor, which offered a beautiful view of the surrounding farmland, with fans and open windows keeping the air pleasantly cool. The meal was a highlight: fragrant rice, fresh pita bread, delicious spinach and potato dishes, and main courses of chicken, beef, and kofta—all served in charming, rustic pots and bowls that added to the local atmosphere. Everything was absolutely delicious.
The tour ended around 3:30 PM, and we arrived back in Hurghada around 7:30 PM. We were really glad we chose a private tour—it gave us plenty of space in the van and the flexibility to move at our own pace without waiting or rushing. We especially appreciated the friendly team: our drivers, our knowledgeable guide Aiman, our boat captain Alibaba, and the warm hospitality at the restaurant."
Jeannie Eunsil Kim
"Excellent Boat Trip with all fun.
Everything run very smoothly from our pick up at the hotel to drop off again in the evening. The boat trip
Itself was good fun especially the banana boat and snorkelling stops which are included in the trip at no extra charge. With the snorkelling, the crew from the boat got in with us to make the most of the experience by taking groups to the best spots away from the boat. It didn’t matter if you were a novice or a good swimmer, everyone had a group guide to make sure we all had the best experience. We got off at Orange Bay island for a couple of hours which was busy but a beautiful place and experience. As far as excursions operators go in Hurgada, we will probably not use anyone else now except Hurgada Lovers. Prices are the best in Hurgada and the service 1st class. Thank you again Tamer and to all the boat crew."
Natasha Graham
"Wonderful Sea Scope Submarine Trip – A Unique Experience!
Our trip on the Yellow Sea Scope Submarine from the New Marina was one of the most memorable experiences we had in Hurghada! A big thank you to Mr.Tamer, who organized everything perfectly and made the whole experience smooth and stress-free."
Walaa Rady
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by pre-booked tour, which usually includes private transfers. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours each way. Some tours offer early morning departures to maximize your time in Luxor.
Yes, it's possible, but it's a very long day trip, often involving flights or overnight travel. Most day trips to Luxor are more feasible from Hurghada due to the shorter travel time. +1
Expect around 4 to 5 hours of driving each way. Tours often include stops, so the total travel time can be longer.
While public buses exist, they are less comfortable and significantly slower than organized tours. For a day trip, a private transfer or organized tour is highly recommended for efficiency and comfort.
Most tours depart very early, typically between 4:00 AM and 5:00 AM, to make the most of the day and avoid the hottest part of the afternoon.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Most organized Luxor day trip packages from Hurghada include entrance fees to the main sites like Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, and Hatshepsut Temple. Always confirm this when booking.
Prices vary depending on whether you choose a private or group tour, and what's included. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $150+ per person. Private tours are generally more expensive but offer more flexibility.
Yes, you can buy tickets at each site, but it's more convenient and often cheaper to have them included in your tour package. This also saves time queuing.
Attractions typically open early, around 6:00 AM, and close in the late afternoon, around 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM. Your tour guide will manage your itinerary to fit within these hours.
VIP tours often include smaller group sizes, more exclusive access, and potentially better guides or amenities. Reviewers suggest they offer a more comfortable and personalized experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key sites include Karnak Temple, the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, and the Colossi of Memnon. Some tours may also include a felucca ride on the Nile.
Hot air balloon rides are usually an optional add-on and not included in standard day trip packages. They offer incredible sunrise views over Luxor's ancient sites.
Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential due to the heat. Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must. Modest attire covering shoulders and knees is respectful for temple visits.
Expect a significant amount of walking, often on uneven terrain and stairs, especially within the temple complexes and tombs. Comfortable footwear is crucial.
Yes, children can enjoy Luxor, especially the grand scale of the temples and the stories of pharaohs. However, the heat can be challenging for younger kids, so ensure they stay hydrated and have breaks.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Most organized day trips include lunch at a local restaurant, often with views of the Nile. This is a great opportunity to try authentic Egyptian cuisine. +1
You'll likely have traditional Egyptian dishes such as rice, bread, grilled meats (chicken, beef, kofta), and vegetable stews. Reviewers often praise the delicious and authentic meals.
Most local restaurants can accommodate vegetarian requests, offering dishes like vegetable tagines, rice, and salads. It's good to mention any dietary needs when booking.
Yes, there are usually opportunities to buy water, soft drinks, and snacks at various points, though many tours provide water.
Many tours stop at reputable local restaurants like Paris Restaurant, which offers good food and Nile views. Your guide can also offer recommendations.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed at most outdoor sites. However, in some tombs or specific areas within temples, photography might be restricted or require an additional ticket. Your guide will advise you.
The Avenue of Sphinxes at Karnak, the terraces of Hatshepsut Temple, and the vastness of the Valley of the Kings offer incredible photo opportunities. Sunrise over the West Bank is also spectacular.
In most cases, your standard entrance ticket covers photography. However, some specific areas or museums within Luxor may have separate photography fees.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. This also helps avoid the harsh midday sun.
Drone usage is generally restricted in Egypt, especially around historical sites, due to security regulations. It's best to avoid bringing drones.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider tours that include a relaxing felucca ride on the Nile, which can be a welcome respite from the heat and walking. Some reviewers mention their children particularly enjoyed demonstrations at alabaster workshops. Ensure your tour provider is experienced with families and can cater to their needs, such as providing child-friendly meal options.
💰 Budget Travelers
Be mindful of optional add-ons like hot air balloon rides, which can substantially increase the cost. Pack your own snacks and water to avoid purchasing them at inflated prices at tourist sites. While lunch is often included, having some personal snacks is always a good idea.
couples
While the day is long, the experience of witnessing millennia-old temples and tombs side-by-side can be incredibly bonding. Some tours offer optional Nile felucca rides, which can be a particularly romantic way to experience the river. Evenings after a long day can be spent enjoying a quiet dinner back in Hurghada, reminiscing about the day's discoveries.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey from Hurghada to Luxor
Given the early start (often before 5 AM) and late return (around 7-8 PM), it's crucial to be prepared for a full day. Many travelers find that booking a private Luxor day tour enhances the experience, offering more flexibility, comfort, and the ability to set your own pace, which is particularly beneficial if traveling with children or seeking a more relaxed exploration.
While the drive is substantial, the reward is immense: stepping back in time to explore some of the world's most magnificent ancient wonders. The efficiency of organized tours ensures you can cover the major highlights within a single day, making it a feasible, albeit tiring, adventure.
Exploring Luxor's Ancient Wonders
+1The West Bank is home to the necropolis, where pharaohs and nobles were buried. The Valley of the Kings is a highlight, with its elaborately decorated tombs designed to guide the deceased into the afterlife. While many tombs are open to the public, access to Tutankhamun's tomb usually requires a separate ticket. The Temple of Hatshepsut, with its unique, multi-tiered architecture carved into a cliff face, is another must-see. Don't miss the Colossi of Memnon, two massive statues that once guarded Amenhotep III's mortuary temple.
+1Guides, often Egyptologists, play a vital role in bringing these ancient sites to life, explaining the history, mythology, and intricate hieroglyphs. Their insights transform a visit from a sightseeing tour into an educational journey through ancient Egyptian civilization.
Beyond the Temples: Optional Activities
For those seeking an unforgettable sunrise, a hot air balloon ride over Luxor is a breathtaking, albeit optional and costly, addition. This offers panoramic views of the ancient sites and the surrounding Nile Valley from above.
+2Some tours might also include visits to local alabaster workshops, where you can see how these stone souvenirs are crafted. While these stops are sometimes seen as commercial, they can be informative and offer a glimpse into local craftsmanship.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit