Luxor , Egypt

Luxor Full Day Culture and Food Tour

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About this experience

Journey with us on a private, luxury-style day tour in Luxor that bridges ancient grandeur with living tradition. Begin your day among the silent colossi and carved tombs of the West Bank, then cross the Nile to a family-run kitchen where you’ll cook, taste and explore Egypt’s spice-rich legacy. With a dedicated “mystic-guide” at your side, you'll unlock stories carved in stone and simmering in the pot — leaving the usual tourist trail behind and discovering how past and present meet beneath Luxor’s golden light.

Available options

Luxor Full Day Culture and Food Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Step into a warm family kitchen and learn the art of authentic Egyptian cooking.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Walk through the gates of eternity into the necropolis where Egypt’s most powerful pharaohs were laid to rest. Your Egyptologist guide reveals the art, symbols, and afterlife beliefs painted across the tomb walls — from the golden journey of Ra to the heart-weighing of Ma’at. You’ll visit selected tombs (often including Ramses III, IV or IX) chosen for their vivid preservation and storytelling power.

Stop 2

Rising dramatically from limestone cliffs, this mortuary temple honors Egypt’s most remarkable woman-pharaoh. Discover how Hatshepsut defied convention, commissioning a monument blending divine symbolism with political genius. Your guide explains her bold expedition to Punt, her transformation into a male-styled ruler, and how her image was later defaced — a timeless lesson on power and legacy.

Stop 3

Two immense seated statues greet the rising sun on Luxor’s West Bank. These weathered guardians once flanked the temple of Amenhotep III. Hear the legend of their mysterious “singing” sound that echoed through antiquity — a melody of wind and stone that drew pilgrims from Rome to Thebes.

Step into a warm family kitchen and learn the art of authentic Egyptian cooking. Guided by your hosts, prepare beloved dishes such as koshari, molokhia, and feteer using fresh herbs and spices from Luxor’s markets. Feel the rhythm of chopping, stirring, and tasting as your host shares stories of home life and traditional healing foods. End with a shared meal — laughter, aromas, and connection.

Conclude your day at a boutique spice and oil shop renowned for its purity and preservation methods. Learn how ancient Egyptians used natural botanicals for health, perfume, and sacred ritual — and how locals continue those traditions today. Every guest receives a small spice or tea blend to take home, a fragrant keepsake of Luxor’s living legacy.

What's not included

Tipping/Gratuity

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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.