Luxor , Egypt

Luxor and Karnak Temples Half Day Tour

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About this experience

Magnificent monuments of Luxor’s East Bank on this private half-day tour, designed for travelers seeking a rich historical experience in comfort and style. Visit two of Egypt’s most iconic temple complexes, where colossal statues, intricate hieroglyphs, and awe-inspiring architecture tell the stories of pharaohs and gods. Your expert Egyptologist guide will provide fascinating insights into the religious, political, and cultural significance of these ancient sites. Enjoy a personalized experience with a private vehicle, avoiding large crowds and allowing ample time for photography and exploration. Perfect for history enthusiasts, families, and first-time visitors, this tour offers a convenient and engaging way to experience Luxor’s East Bank highlights in just a few hours, while gaining a deeper understanding of the city’s glorious past.

Available options

Luxor and Karnak Temples Half Day Tour

Pickup included

What's included

entrance tickets

Licensed Egyptologist guide

Hotel or cruise pickup and drop-off

Private air-conditioned vehicle

All service charges and taxes

Bottled water

Private tour, no shared groups

Detailed itinerary

Your private guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel or Nile cruise in Luxor in the morning. Begin your journey on the East Bank of the Nile, where the city’s most impressive temples await.

Stop 2

Start your tour at the vast Karnak Temple complex, one of the largest religious sites in the world. Explore its monumental halls, colossal statues, towering obelisks, and intricately carved pylons. Your guide will reveal the history behind the temple’s construction, built over centuries by successive pharaohs, and explain its religious significance as a center of worship for the god Amun. Walk along the famous Avenue of Sphinxes and admire the grandeur of the Hypostyle Hall, where 134 massive columns create a breathtaking forest of stone. Capture stunning photographs while learning about the ceremonies, festivals, and rituals that once animated this sacred space.

Stop 3

Continue to Luxor Temple, a striking complex located in the heart of the modern city. Unlike Karnak, Luxor Temple was primarily dedicated to the rejuvenation of kings and the cult of the god Amun. Admire the majestic statues of pharaohs, intricately decorated walls, and towering obelisks that reflect the temple’s historical and religious importance. Your guide will share fascinating stories about royal processions, ancient ceremonies, and the temple’s enduring role in Egyptian culture. Take time to explore the open courtyards and sacred halls at your own pace, enjoying the serene atmosphere and photographic opportunities.

Optional Photo Stops and Exploration:
Depending on your schedule and interests, your guide can provide brief stops along the streets of modern Luxor, allowing for panoramic views and additional photo opportunities of the Nile and surrounding areas.

After you explore Luxor and Karnak Temples, your private vehicle will take you back to your hotel or cruise, completing a convenient and memorable half-day journey into the heart of Egypt’s ancient capital.

What's not included

Gratuities for guide and driver

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Luxor

Luxor, once the ancient city of Thebes, is a treasure trove of ancient Egyptian history and architecture. Known for its magnificent temples, tombs, and monuments, it offers an unparalleled glimpse into the past. The city is often referred to as the world's greatest open-air museum, with landmarks like the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple attracting visitors from around the globe.

Top Attractions

Karnak Temple Complex

The Karnak Temple Complex is a massive temple complex dedicated to the god Amun-Ra. It is one of the largest religious buildings ever constructed and a must-visit for its grandeur and historical significance.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours Egyptian Pounds 160

Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings is a burial site for pharaohs and nobles from the New Kingdom period. It contains over 60 tombs, including the famous tomb of Tutankhamun.

Historical/Architecture 3-4 hours Egyptian Pounds 240 (includes entry to 3 tombs)

Luxor Temple

Luxor Temple is a large ancient Egyptian temple complex located on the east bank of the Nile. It was constructed around 1400 BCE and dedicated to the god Amun-Ra.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Egyptian Pounds 160

Hatshepsut Temple

The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut is a stunning temple dedicated to the female pharaoh Hatshepsut. It is uniquely designed and set against the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Egyptian Pounds 120

Luxor Museum

The Luxor Museum is a small but impressive museum showcasing artifacts from the Theban Necropolis and the surrounding area. It provides a great overview of Luxor's rich history.

Museum 1 hour Egyptian Pounds 100

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kushari

A popular Egyptian dish made with rice, lentils, pasta, and fried onions, topped with tomato sauce and garlic vinegar.

Main Dish Vegetarian

Ful Medames

A traditional Egyptian breakfast dish made from slow-cooked fava beans, often served with eggs, falafel, and tahini.

Breakfast Vegan

Grilled Kebab

Marinated and grilled skewers of lamb or chicken, often served with rice and salad.

Main Dish Contains meat

Baklava

A sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, nuts, and honey syrup.

Dessert Vegetarian, contains nuts

Popular Activities

Hot air balloon ride Felucca sailing Horseback riding Nile River cruise Spa treatments Café hopping Temple visits Museum tours

Best Time to Visit

October to April

This period offers the most comfortable weather for sightseeing and exploring the ancient sites. The cooler temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Egyptian Pound (EGP)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Luxor is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist sites.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour companies and guides
• Negotiate prices in advance for taxis and services

Getting there

By air

Luxor International Airport • 6 km from city center

By train

Luxor Train Station

By bus

Luxor Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses are a cheap and common way to get around Luxor. They can be crowded and may not be the most comfortable option for tourists.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Careem

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

East Bank West Bank

Day trips

Valley of the Queens

3 km from Luxor • Half day

The Valley of the Queens is a burial site for the wives and children of pharaohs. It contains over 70 tombs, including the famous tomb of Nefertari.

Dendera Temple Complex

60 km from Luxor • Full day

The Dendera Temple Complex is a well-preserved temple dedicated to the goddess Hathor. It is known for its beautiful reliefs and the famous Dendera zodiac.

Abydos Temple

140 km from Luxor • Full day

The Abydos Temple is a significant archaeological site dedicated to the god Osiris. It is known for its well-preserved reliefs and the famous Abydos King List.

Festivals

Luxor African Film Festival • Late March to early April Luxor International Folk Festival • Late October to early November Eid al-Fitr • Varies (end of Ramadan)

Pro tips

Visit major attractions early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat.
Hire a knowledgeable local guide to fully appreciate the history and significance of the ancient sites.
Stay hydrated and wear sun protection, as the sun can be intense, especially during the summer months.
Bargain politely in markets and with street vendors, as prices are often inflated for tourists.
Try local dishes like Kushari and Ful Medames for an authentic culinary experience.