Best Tours and Day Trips of Luxor

Cairo is Egypt's most famous destination, but south of the capital on the Nile, Luxor is the cradle of Egyptian civilisation. Because of its importance in antiquity, when it was called Thebes, this city has become the centre of operations for researchers seeking to learn about the local past through its archaeological sites and museums, which you can also discover on guided tours.

Some of the best things to do in Luxor include taking a tour of the Temple of Karnak, taking a hot-air balloon tour to see the Valley of the Kings from above, discovering the east and west banks of the Nile on a guided tour, seeing Edfu and Kom Ombo on a full-day trip and visiting the Luxor and Mummification Museums with the assistance of an expert local guide.

If you want to discover the ancestral spirit of ancient Egypt, a visit to the Temple of Karnak is a must. This religious complex is an architectural gem that will transport you back to Pharaonic times, as it is the second largest archaeological site in the world and boasts a rich history dating back more than 4,000 years.

On these tours, with the assistance of an expert local guide , you will tour the pylons, columns and obelisks of Karnak. In addition, you will also learn about the reliefs and hieroglyphs that decorate the walls and tell the stories of gods, pharaohs and historical events that took place on the banks of the Nile, giving you an insight into life in ancient Egypt.

The highlight of your visit will be the sound and light show that transforms the Temple of Karnak at sunset. With tickets included in your tour, you will witness the lights bring the ancient structures to life as a captivating narration immerses you in the magic of the site. The play of light highlights the architectural details, creating a mystical atmosphere that will transport you back in time.

This tour is not only an opportunity to explore a fascinating archaeological site, but also to attend one of the most popular shows in this destination, where you will have an unforgettable experience combining historical knowledge and visual entertainment in the heart of Luxor.

Details of interest

• Price: approximately 26 euros per person. This usually includes guided tours and tickets for the sound and light show.
• Duration: about 3 hours.
• Advantages of these tours: you will get to see one of the largest religious temples in the world and attend one of the most popular shows in Luxor.
• Disadvantages of these tours: Although the Karnak complex is one of the largest in the world, these types of tours usually only tour the main building.

If you want to be part of one of the region's most fascinating experiences during your visit to Luxor, you can't miss a hot-air balloon ride over the mystical Valley of the Kings, the final resting place of some of ancient Egypt's most famous pharaohs, including the legendary Tutankhamun. This valley, located on the west bank of the Nile, is home to royal tombs and ancient archaeological treasures.

The sheer scale and historical significance of the Valley of the Kings is overwhelming, and the best way to appreciate its immensity is from the heights. On these excursions, which are among the best hot-air balloon rides in Luxor, you will see the entire funerary complex from a unique perspective, appreciating the meticulous planning and detailed architecture that distinguish this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

During the flight, your expert local guide will give you an insight into the rich history of the pharaohs buried at this sacred site, with special emphasis on the enigma surrounding Tutankhamun and his funerary altar.

Details of interest

• Price: approximately 105 euros per person.
• Duration: about 3 hours.
• Advantages of these excursions: it is the best alternative for discovering the Valley of the Kings in its entirety, which is unreachable during a walk.
• Disadvantages of these excursions: although you will learn the complete history of the site, you will have to combine this balloon excursion with a ground excursion around the same site to visit the most famous tombs and funerary altars, such as those of Tutankhamun and Ramses III.

The history of Luxor and the ancient city of Thebes rests on the bounties of the Nile, so the best way to learn about the legacy of this site is to embark on a tour that will take you to explore the east and west banks of the river, a journey that will immerse you in the very essence of ancient Egypt.

On the east bank you will discover the architectural gems of Luxor, such as the Temple of Karnak and the Temple of Luxor, monuments that bear witness to the splendour of the ancient Theban capital. As you stroll through these colossal structures, you will understand the grandeur of a civilisation that flourished thanks to the riches and opportunities provided by the Nile.

Crossing the river to the west bank, you will enter the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens, where the tombs of pharaohs and queens reveal the deep respect for the after life. Here agriculture thrived on the fertile banks of the Nile, sustaining the development of civilisation and establishing the river as a crucial tributary for international trade. In addition, at this site you can also take part in a cruise on the Nile at Luxor.

Thus, this tour is not only a journey through time, but also an opportunity to understand how the greatness of ancient Egypt was forged in the bounty of the Nile's waters. From monumental architecture to innovative agricultural practices, every step along these banks reveals the intricate relationship between the river and Egyptian civilisation.

Details of interest

• Price: approximately 16 euros per person.
• Duration: about 9 hours.
• Advantages of these tours: they are excellent value for money experiences.
• Disadvantages of these tours: they are full-day experiences, which could complicate your itinerary in the city if you are planning a short stay.

If you are in Luxor and want to experience the essence of Egyptian civilisation beyond the confines of the ancient city of Thebes, an excursion to Edfu and Kom Ombo is the perfect choice. On these experiences you can embark on a journey that will take you to explore two of the most emblematic temples of the Pharaonic civilisation, revealing the architectural and cultural grandeur of the region.

Edfu is home to the Temple of Horus, one of the best preserved and most impressive temples in all of Egypt. This monument dedicated to the falcon god Horus will transport you back to the Ptolemaic era with its pillars, detailed reliefs and vast courtyards. The experience of walking through its corridors will allow you to experience first-hand the mythology and spirituality that permeated daily life in ancient Egypt.

At Kom Ombo, another destination on this tour, the Temple of Sobek and Haroeris awaits you, a unique site of its kind. This dual temple, a rarity during dynastic times, dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek and the falcon Haroeris, offers an alternative view of the Egyptian worldview. The carved columns, reliefs and traces of ancient rituals will transport you back to the mystical local past.

On the way from Luxor to Edfu and Kom Ombo, you can also visit other intermediate towns on the banks of the Nile, such as Esna and At Tirah, which, due to their status as non-tourist destinations, still maintain ancient customs, such as cultivating the riverbanks and making a living from fishing. If you wish, you can also combine this tour with a trip to Cairo from Luxor, where you can get a complete overview of ancient Egypt.

Interesting details

• Price: approximately 26 euros per person. This cost usually includes return transfers with hotel pick-up and drop-off and the assistance of an expert local guide.
• Duration: about 8 hours.
• Advantages of these tours: You will have the opportunity to see a less famous circuit of the temples of ancient Egypt, but just as interesting as that offered by the religious buildings of Luxor.
• Disadvantages of these tours: While you will be able to pass through intermediate towns south of Luxor, you will not have much free time to explore these sites on your own.

A guided tour of the Luxor and Mummification Museums will introduce you to the rich history and spirituality of ancient Egypt. At the Luxor Museum you will have the opportunity to explore a collection of items ranging from prehistoric to Greco-Roman times. Among the jewels of this museum are statues, carved reliefs and ritual objects that reveal the idiosyncrasies of Egyptian civilisation.

In the Mummification Museum, on the other hand, you can learn about the process of preserving bodies in ancient Egypt. There you will discover the secrets of mummification techniques and the rituals associated with "the afterlife". The galleries include sarcophagi decorated with hieroglyphs, bandages and tools used in the mummification process, offering a unique insight into funerary beliefs and practices.

In these collections you will find items ranging from divine representations of Egyptian gods to everyday objects used in daily life. Your expert local guide will lead you through these pieces, revealing captivating stories about life, death and eternity in the worldview of the ancient Egyptians.

Details of interest

• Price: approximately 48 euros per person. The cost generally includes the assistance of an expert local guide and entrance fees to the museums.
• Duration: about 4 hours.
• Advantages of these tours: You will get to see the two main museums in Luxor.
• Disadvantages of these tours: these are intensive sightseeing experiences, so you won't have much free time to explore the exhibits on your own.

You can book tours of Luxor in advance online or book them once you are in the city, although you should be aware that booking in advance will allow you to know the tour provider's information, which will add more security to your tour. In addition, you will be able to freeze the rate and secure your place on the tour.

On the other hand, booking in advance will allow you to put together a more effective itinerary for your trip, including any of these tours combined with a Nile cruise from Luxor or some of the best balloon rides in the city.

On this type of tour you can explore the archaeological and cultural treasures in and around Luxor. From temples and religious buildings to exhibits on mummification and ancient Egyptian civilisation, you'll be spoilt for choice.

At the Luxor Museum you will have the opportunity to admire the collection of items spanning different periods of Egyptian history. From funerary statues to detailed reliefs, each piece serves as an example of the greatness and evolution of this civilisation over the millennia.

Excursions along the Nile from Luxor will allow you to understand the importance of the river in the construction of the cities around it as a way of life. You can also enjoy panoramic views of the major Egyptian cities along the banks of the Nile.

To get the most out of your excursions in Luxor I advise you to plan your experience in advance and research the sites you plan to visit, such as the Temple of Karnak or the Valley of the Kings, so that you can fully appreciate their historical significance during your visit. Also, consider opting for tours that always include a guided escort, as the knowledge of local experts will enrich your experience.

Another key tip is to plan your itinerary efficiently, taking into account the geographical location of sites of interest. Grouping nearby sites together will make it easier to get around and allow you to make the most of the time available. Also, be sure to pack comfortable clothing and sunscreen, but also warm clothing, as the weather can be very hot, especially during the day, and windy and cold at night.

Finally, be respectful of local rules and regulations. Many of the sites in Luxor are considered sacred sites, so it is essential to follow directions and maintain proper behaviour.

Opting for a guided tour in Luxor offers a number of advantages that can significantly enrich your experience of exploring the local attractions. Firstly, having a local expert guide provides you with an in-depth knowledge of the history, culture and architectural details of the sites you will visit, such as the temples of Karnak and Luxor, as well as the Valley of the Kings.

Logistical planning is also easier with a guided tour, as the itinerary is organised efficiently, grouping nearby attractions and maximising the time available. You will avoid potential mishaps, such as long queues or difficulties in finding the exact location of sites. In addition, a guide can tailor the tour to your specific interests, giving you a personalised experience that you might not get when exploring on your own.

While autonomy can be appealing, especially for more adventurous travellers, a guided tour in Luxor offers a more complete and enriching immersion into Egyptian history and culture and makes things easier in a destination that can be a bit overwhelming for tourists.