Luxor , Egypt

Private Half Day East Bank Tour

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(13 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The East Bank of Luxor, Egypt, is characterized by a vibrant modern city and significant ancient Egyptian temples. Luxor City stands as a lively hub, offering a blend of contemporary life and historical richness. Luxor Temple, dedicated to the Theban Triad, is a prominent attraction, featuring colossal statues and obelisks.

The Karnak Temple Complex, dedicated primarily to Amun, boasts the Great Hypostyle Hall and various temples, showcasing the architectural marvels of different pharaohs. The Avenue of Sphinxes once connected Luxor Temple to Karnak Temple, and remnants of this ancient processional route have been uncovered. The East Bank also houses the Luxor Museum, exhibiting a collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts.

Along the Nile Corniche, locals and tourists enjoy picturesque views of the Nile River. The East Bank stands as a dynamic and culturally rich destination, inviting visitors to explore both its modern vibrancy and ancient wonders.

Available options

Private Half Day East Bank Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Entrance fees to all mentioned sites

Expert Egyptologist tour guide

Bottled water during the tour

Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Luxor

Private air-conditioned vehicle

All service charges and taxes

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Luxor Temple, situated in the city of Luxor on the east bank of the Nile River in Egypt, is an ancient temple complex with a rich history dating back to the New Kingdom period of ancient Egypt. Dedicated to the Theban Triad of gods - Amun, Mut, and Khonsu, the temple served as a religious center and played a significant role in the annual Opet Festival. The architectural features include an imposing First Pylon at the entrance, a large peristyle courtyard, a hypostyle hall, and various sanctuaries. The temple boasts colossal statues, intricate reliefs, and at one time, an avenue of sphinxes connecting it to the Temple of Karnak. Luxor Temple has witnessed centuries of construction, renovation, and historical events, including its conversion into a Christian church during the Roman period. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination, showcasing the grandeur of ancient Egyptian architecture and religious practices.

Stop 2

Karnak Temple, located on the east bank of the Nile River in Luxor, Egypt, is one of the largest and most impressive temple complexes in the world. Covering about 200 acres, the temple is dedicated primarily to the god Amun, along with other deities like Mut and Khonsu. Constructed over more than a thousand years, from the Middle Kingdom to the Ptolemaic period, Karnak boasts numerous structures, including the iconic Great Hypostyle Hall with towering columns, various precincts surrounded by mudbrick walls, monumental pylons marking entrances, obelisks, statues, and the Festival Hall of Tuthmosis III. The complex features an ancient processional way, the Avenue of Sphinxes, and includes a sacred lake with potential ritual significance. Karnak Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracts visitors with its immense historical and architectural significance, showcasing the grandeur of ancient Egyptian civilization.

What's not included

Tipping

Personal expenses

Meals during the Tours

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.9

13 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Child car seat not available

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.