Luxor , Egypt

Dendera and Abydos Tour from Luxor

Active

4h - 5h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This isn’t your typical tourist route — it’s a private, deep dive into two of Egypt’s most spiritually rich and best-preserved temples. While most tours stick to Luxor’s East and West Bank, this experience takes you to Abydos, home to the rare King List and exquisite reliefs of the Temple of Seti I, and Dendera, where the Temple of Hathor boasts some of the most vibrant celestial artwork in Egypt. With a professional Egyptologist guide, private air-conditioned transport, and hotel pickup and drop-off included, you’ll explore at your own pace and truly connect with Egypt’s sacred legacy — without the crowds. It’s ideal for travelers who crave authenticity, history, and deeper storytelling beyond the usual highlights.

Available options

Only Private car

Only Private car<br/>Pickup included

Car+Guide+Entry fees+Lunch

Car+Guide+Entry fees+Lunch<br/>Pickup included

Car + Guide + Lunch

Car + Guide + Lunch<br/>Pickup included

What's included

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Bottled water

Pick up from your hotel in Luxor

Lunch meal at Quality local restaurant (Depending on the Selected Tour option)

Entrance fees (Depending on the Selected Tour option)

English speaking guide (Depending on the Selected Tour option)

Transport by private vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Your journey begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel or Nile cruise ship in Luxor at 7:00 AM. A private, air-conditioned vehicle will transport you northward through the scenic landscapes of Upper Egypt. The route traverses rural villages, bustling markets, and stretches of desert, offering glimpses into daily Egyptian life. Expect to pass through several police checkpoints—a standard procedure ensuring safety for all travelers. The drive to Abydos takes approximately 3 hours, followed by a 1.5-hour journey to Dendera, and finally, about 1 hour and 40 minutes back to Luxor. Throughout the trip, your experienced driver and knowledgeable Egyptologist guide will ensure a comfortable and informative experience.

Stop 2

Next, you'll visit the Dendera Temple Complex, home to the Temple of Hathor, the goddess of love, music, and joy. This temple is one of the best-preserved in Egypt, with vibrant ceiling paintings and detailed carvings that have withstood the test of time. The hypostyle hall, supported by 24 ornate columns adorned with Hathor-headed capitals, leads to a sanctuary that once housed the goddess's statue. Don't miss the astronomical ceiling, depicting the zodiac signs and celestial scenes, reflecting the ancient Egyptians' advanced understanding of astronomy. The temple's crypts and rooftop chapels offer further exploration opportunities, revealing layers of religious significance and historical depth.

Stop 3

Your first destination is Abydos, one of ancient Egypt's most sacred cities and a major center of Osiris worship. Here, you'll explore the magnificent Temple of Seti I, constructed during the 19th Dynasty and completed by his son, Ramses II. This temple is renowned for its exceptional preservation and intricate reliefs. Among its most notable features is the Abydos King List, a chronological list of 72 pharaohs carved into the temple walls, offering invaluable insights into Egypt's dynastic history. The temple's seven sanctuaries, each dedicated to a different deity, showcase the architectural and artistic prowess of ancient Egyptian craftsmen.

This is more than just a day trip — it’s a deep dive into Egypt’s spiritual and artistic heritage that most travelers miss. Unlike crowded, standard tours, this private experience gives you the time and space to fully absorb two of Egypt’s most underrated treasures. With an expert Egyptologist by your side, you'll uncover details in the carvings and inscriptions at Abydos and Dendera that many overlook. From the rarely visited King List at Abydos to the vivid astronomical ceiling at Dendera, each stop is rich with storytelling and insight. Hotel pickup and drop-off, a private vehicle, and flexible pacing make the journey as comfortable as it is enlightening.

What's not included

Any Optional Tours

Any extras not mentioned in the itinerary.

Tipping

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if require

Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

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.