East and West Bank of Luxor – Full Day Private Guided Tour
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Luxor’s East and West Bank highlights in one day with an expert guide. Visit the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, Karnak, and Luxor Temples while learning about Egypt’s ancient history from a certified Egyptologist.
Available options
Guide $ car & tickets
Pickup included
Transportation only
Pickup included
All Inclusive plus tut' Tomb
Guide &Car$ tickets &Tut' tomb<br/>Pickup included
Guide & car
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off from central Luxor
Entrance fees to all mentioned sites
Private air-conditioned transportation
Bottled water during the tour
Services of a licensed Egyptologist guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Step into the heart of ancient Egypt’s royal burial ground at the Valley of the Kings, where over 64 tombs were carved deep into the desert cliffs for the pharaohs of the New Kingdom. Walk through tombs adorned with intricate hieroglyphics and colorful murals that vividly depict the pharaohs’ journey to the afterlife. Your guide will highlight some of the most impressive tombs open to the public, such as those of Ramses IV, Merenptah, or Thutmose III. (Optional: Entry to King Tutankhamun’s tomb is available at an additional charge.
2
Stop 2
Marvel at the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, one of Egypt’s most architecturally striking temples. Built into the limestone cliffs at Deir el-Bahari, this multi-level temple honors Egypt’s most successful female pharaoh. Learn about Hatshepsut’s reign, her bold trade expeditions to Punt, and her unique approach to kingship. The temple’s elegant design, terraces, and vivid reliefs make it a must-see.
3
Stop 3
Pause for photos at the Colossi of Memnon, two massive statues standing nearly 18 meters high. These towering figures once guarded the entrance to the mortuary temple of Amenhotep III, now long vanished. Despite centuries of exposure, they remain iconic symbols of ancient Thebes and provide a fascinating glimpse into the scale of royal architecture.
4
Stop 4
Explore the awe-inspiring Temple of Karnak, one of the largest religious sites in the world. This vast complex was built and expanded over 2,000 years by successive pharaohs. Stroll through the towering Hypostyle Hall, with its 134 massive columns, and see highlights like the Sacred Lake, Obelisks of Hatshepsut and Thutmose I, and the Temple of Amun-Ra. Your guide will explain how Karnak served as a major spiritual and political center in ancient Egypt.
5
Stop 5
End your day with a visit to the elegant Luxor Temple, a beautifully preserved site in the heart of the modern city. Unlike Karnak, Luxor Temple was primarily dedicated to the rejuvenation of kingship. Built by Amenhotep III and expanded by Ramses II, it features imposing statues, detailed carvings, and remnants of its Greco-Roman past, including a chapel built by Alexander the Great. It’s especially stunning in the late afternoon or evening when the lighting brings its carvings to life.
What's not included
Gratuities
Personal expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
26 reviews
5★
26
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
