Discovering the ancient wonders of Luxor’s East and West Banks is an unforgettable experience. Visitors can enjoy the grandeur of Egypt’s pharaonic legacy, from the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple to the enigmatic Valley of the Kings. This private tour offers a seamless way to explore these iconic sites, with personalized guidance, comfortable transportation, and a delicious lunch included. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an extraordinary adventure, this full-day excursion promises to leave you captivated and eager to uncover more of Luxor’s timeless treasures.

Good To Know

  • Explore the iconic Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut, and Colossi of Memnon on a private full-day tour.
  • Gain insights into ancient Egyptian history and culture from a knowledgeable private guide during the tour.
  • Travel in air-conditioned comfort and enjoy a included lunch, with all fees and taxes covered.
  • Discover the architectural wonders and engineering feats of the East and West Bank sites.
  • Experience a comprehensive and immersive tour with a 100% past participant recommendation.

Overview of the Tour

This full day private tour provides travelers a comprehensive exploration of Luxor’s East and West Banks.

Highlights include the iconic Luxor Temple, the majestic Karnak Temple, the tomb-filled Valley of the Kings, the stunning Temple of Hatshepsut, and the colossal Colossi of Memnon.

Guests will travel in air-conditioned comfort with a private guide, ensuring a personalized experience.

Lunch is included, and all fees and taxes are covered.

The tour operates daily, offering flexibility for travelers.

With 100% of past participants recommending this tour, it’s an exceptional opportunity to discover the wonders of ancient Thebes.

Highlights of the East Bank

Travelers begin their East Bank exploration at the majestic Luxor Temple, a stunning monument that showcases the grand architectural style of ancient Egypt.

Next, they’ll visit the colossal Karnak Temple, a sprawling complex of pylons, obelisks, and chapels that astound with their sheer scale.

Nearby, the Valley of the Kings holds the tombs of pharaohs like Tutankhamun, where visitors can descend underground to witness the incredible wall paintings.

Finally, the Temple of Hatshepsut, a terraced monument dedicated to one of Egypt’s few female pharaohs, offers a breathtaking view of the Nile.

These East Bank highlights provide a captivating introduction to Luxor’s ancient wonders.

Exploring the Karnak Temple

One of the highlights of the East Bank tour is the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple.

As you step into this vast complex, you’ll be amazed by the sheer scale and grandeur of the ancient Egyptian architecture.

The temple’s highlights include the towering pylons, the hypostyle hall with its 134 massive columns, and the sacred lake.

Your guide will provide insights into the temple’s history and the significance of the various structures.

You’ll have ample time to explore the site and capture stunning photographs.

The Karnak Temple is a true testament to the architectural and engineering prowess of ancient Egypt.

Venturing to the West Bank

After marveling at the grandeur of Karnak Temple on the East Bank, the tour now heads across the Nile River to the West Bank.

The first stop is the iconic Valley of the Kings, where visitors can explore the well-preserved tombs of ancient Egyptian pharaohs.

Next, the group visits the Temple of Hatshepsut, a magnificent mortuary temple dedicated to one of Egypt’s most powerful female rulers.

The final stop is the Colossi of Memnon, two towering statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III that have stood guard over the Nile for centuries.

Throughout the West Bank exploration, the private guide provides insightful commentary, ensuring a truly immersive experience.

The Valley of the Kings

Descending into the Valley of the Kings, visitors are met with a sense of awe and reverence. This ancient burial ground, home to the tombs of Egypt’s most powerful pharaohs, offers a glimpse into the rich history and beliefs of the past.

The tour includes:

  1. Exploring the elaborate tombs, adorned with intricate hieroglyphics and vibrant murals that depict the pharaohs’ journeys to the afterlife.

  2. Witnessing the impressive architecture and engineering feats that went into constructing these underground marvels, some reaching depths of over 100 feet.

  3. Learning about the significance of the artifacts and treasures found within, which provide invaluable insights into the lives and cultures of ancient Egypt.

Temple of Hatshepsut

The mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut stands as a testament to the ambition and architectural prowess of ancient Egypt.

Situated on the West Bank of the Nile, this majestic temple features a series of terraces and ramps that lead to the main sanctuary.

Visitors can marvel at the intricate carvings and reliefs that depict Hatshepsut’s military campaigns and her divine connection to the gods.

The temple’s unique design, blending Egyptian and Nubian influences, is a true architectural masterpiece that offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Luxor.

Exploring the Temple of Hatshepsut is a highlight of any comprehensive tour of the West Bank.

The Colossi of Memnon

Towering over the West Bank of the Luxor, the Colossi of Memnon stand as iconic sentinels, their massive stone figures commanding attention from all who visit.

These twin statues, each standing at over 60 feet high, depict the pharaoh Amenhotep III and date back to the 14th century BC.

Visitors can:

  1. Marvel at the intricate carvings and details adorning the colossi.
  2. Listen for the faint musical notes said to emanate from the northern statue, a phenomenon attributed to ancient acoustic effects.
  3. Imagine the grandeur of the original mortuary temple that these colossi once guarded, now long lost to time.

The Colossi of Memnon are a must-see highlight of any Luxor tour, offering a glimpse into Egypt’s rich past.

Practical Information

After marveling at the colossal figures of Amenhotep III, visitors can turn their attention to the practical considerations for enjoying the full-day tour of Luxor’s highlights.

The tour includes convenient pickup from Luxor Airport or a specified meeting point, as well as an air-conditioned vehicle for comfort. A private guide ensures personalized attention, and lunch is included at no extra cost.

All fees and taxes are covered, and tipping for the guide and driver is taken care of. The tour operates seven days a week, from 12:00 AM to 11:30 PM, and is available from August 2022 through November 2025.

Prices start at $75 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Time Does the Tour Start and End?

The tour operates from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, covering the highlights of Luxor’s East and West Banks. Pickup and drop-off can be arranged from the specified location, with the full tour lasting approximately 10 hours.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Interests?

You can customize the tour itinerary to fit your interests. The private guide is flexible and will work with you to personalize the experience based on your preferences and time available.

Is There an Option for a Private Group Tour?

Yes, this tour offers a private group option. Travelers can book a private tour with their own group for personalized attention and flexibility to customize the itinerary according to their interests.

What Are the Accepted Payment Methods for the Tour?

The tour accepts various payment methods, including credit cards and online payment options. Travelers can reserve the tour and pay later, or pay in full at the time of booking.

Can Children Participate in the Tour Activities?

Children can participate in the tour activities. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families. Specific requirements or discounts for children are not mentioned, so it’s best to check with the tour provider for details.

The Sum Up

This full-day private tour of Luxor’s East and West Banks offers an immersive experience in ancient Egyptian history. Visitors can marvel at the grandeur of Luxor and Karnak Temples, explore the Valley of the Kings, and visit the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon. With personalized guidance, comfortable transportation, and a delicious lunch, this tour provides an unforgettable adventure through the rich cultural heritage of Luxor.