Best Luxor Day Trip to the East and West Bank of the Nile
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Duration
8 days
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Type
Private Tour
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Runs
Every Day
Overview
Discover the wonders of ancient Thebes on an unforgettable Luxor day trip. Explore the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, the Colossi of Memnon, and the magnificent temples of Karnak and Luxor—all in one extraordinary day.
Included
- All our transfers are arranged by private A/C vehicle.
- Entrance fees and tickets to the mentioned sites on the West Bank and the East bank.
- A tasty lunch in a local restaurant in Luxor is included during our Luxor day tours and excursions.
- An English-speaking Egyptologist during Egypt Day Tours that we offer.
- A bottle of water and soft drinks is included during the East and West Bank of the Luxor tour.
- All taxes and service charges are covered.
Excluded
- Entrance to King Tutankhamun's tomb, King Seti I tomb, and king Ramses XI at the Valley of the Kings.
- Tipping is not expected during the Luxor day tour to the East and the West Bank.
- Camera or photo ticket in the Valley of the kings during Luxor day tours and excursions that we organize.
- Prices also apply during Christmas and New Year tours in Egypt or Egypt Easter tours.
Itinerary:
Start your unforgettable Luxor day trip with a professional Egyptologist guide and private driver who will meet you at your hotel. Prepare to explore the treasures of both the East and West Banks of the Nile, uncovering the timeless beauty of Luxor—the ancient city once known as Thebes.
Your Luxor day trip begins on the West Bank, where the Colossi of Memnon stand tall, welcoming you to the land of ancient kings. These two towering statues, each weighing over 1,000 tons, once guarded the grand mortuary temple of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. Continue to the magnificent Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, carved into the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari. This masterpiece of ancient architecture was dedicated to Egypt’s most successful female ruler, and its terraces and reliefs tell the story of her divine reign.
Next, journey into the heart of royal history at the Valley of the Kings—a vast necropolis where more than 60 tombs were cut into the rock to serve as eternal resting places for pharaohs and nobles of the New Kingdom. Here, you’ll see the legendary tomb of Tutankhamun, the young pharaoh whose burial treasures captured the world’s imagination.
Before crossing to the East Bank, you’ll stop by a local alabaster workshop to see how skilled artisans continue ancient traditions, crafting beautiful souvenirs from local stone. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a quality restaurant overlooking the Nile before continuing your Luxor day trip.
On the East Bank, marvel at the majestic Karnak Temple Complex, the largest religious structure ever built by humankind. Wander through its vast Hypostyle Hall, adorned with towering columns and intricate hieroglyphs, and see Hatshepsut’s obelisk, the tallest surviving in Egypt. The temple’s scale and detail reflect more than 2,000 years of devotion to the gods.
Conclude your Luxor day trip with a visit to the elegant Luxor Temple, a masterpiece of New Kingdom architecture. Built by Amenhotep III and expanded by Ramses II, this temple was once linked to Karnak by an avenue of sphinxes and served as the centerpiece for the annual Opet Festival. As the sun sets, its beautifully lit columns create an enchanting scene that captures the spirit of ancient Egypt.
Finally, your guide and driver will transfer you back to your hotel, leaving you with unforgettable memories of your Luxor day trip—a journey through thousands of years of Egyptian history and culture.
Prices:
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top attractions to visit in Egypt?
Popular attractions include the Pyramids of Giza, Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, Abu Simbel, Aswan, and the Red Sea resorts.
How do I get around Egypt?
You can travel by domestic flights, private transfers, trains, taxis, Uber, or guided tours. Many travelers prefer booking a full tour package for convenience.
Are Nile cruises worth it?
Yes, Nile cruises are one of the best ways to explore major temples between Luxor and Aswan while enjoying luxury accommodation and guided tours on board.
What currency is used in Egypt?
Egypt uses the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and tourist areas, but carrying some cash is recommended.
Are credit cards accepted in Egypt?
Yes, most hotels, restaurants, and stores accept credit cards. Smaller shops and markets may prefer cash.
Do I need a visa to enter Egypt?
Most travelers require a visa. Many nationalities can obtain an e-visa online or purchase a visa on arrival at Cairo, Hurghada, or Sharm El Sheikh airports. Check your nationality’s requirements before traveling.
Is Egypt safe to visit?
Yes. Egypt is generally safe for tourists, especially in major destinations like Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, and Sharm El Sheikh. Tourist areas are well-patrolled, and security is high. As with any destination, stay aware of your surroundings and follow local guidance.
When is the best time to visit Egypt?
The best time is October to April, when the weather is cooler and perfect for sightseeing. Summer (June–August) is very hot, especially in Upper Egypt, but ideal for Red Sea resorts.
What should I wear in Egypt?
Egypt is a modest country. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended. Women don’t need to cover their hair except in mosques. Avoid revealing clothes in conservative areas; swimwear is acceptable at resorts and beaches.
How many days do I need to see Egypt's main highlights?
Most travelers see Cairo, Giza, Luxor and Aswan comfortably in 7 to 10 days. If you want to add the Red Sea, Jordan or a longer Nile cruise, 12 to 14 days gives a more relaxed pace. We can tailor the itinerary length to match the time you have.
Can I customize a tour package to fit my schedule?
Yes. Every package on our site can be adjusted — extend or shorten the itinerary, swap hotels, add or remove destinations, or change the pace. Contact us with your dates and preferences and we'll build a version that fits.
What is included in a typical Egypt tour package?
Our packages typically include accommodation, private transfers, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees to the listed sites, and the meals stated in the itinerary. Each program page lists exactly what's included and excluded, so check that section before booking.
Do your tours include flights?
International flights to Egypt are usually booked separately by the traveler. Domestic flights within Egypt, such as Cairo-Luxor or Aswan-Cairo, are included in most multi-day packages — check the specific itinerary for confirmation.
Is it safe for solo female travelers to visit Egypt?
Yes, many solo female travelers visit Egypt safely each year, especially on guided tours where transport, guiding and accommodation are arranged in advance. As anywhere, it's sensible to dress modestly outside resort areas and stay with your guide or group in unfamiliar places.
Are Egypt tours suitable for families with children?
Yes. Many of our itineraries can be adapted for families, with a slower pace, family-friendly hotels, and activities like felucca rides or camel rides that children enjoy. Let us know the ages of your children when booking so we can adjust the plan.
What should I pack for an Egypt tour?
Lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat and sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket for cooler evenings or winter months, and modest clothing (covered shoulders and knees) for visiting mosques and churches.
Do I need any vaccinations before traveling to Egypt?
No vaccinations are mandatory for most travelers, though routine vaccinations should be up to date. We recommend checking with your doctor or a travel clinic before your trip, since recommendations can change and depend on your travel history.
What is the difference between a private and a group tour?
A private tour gives you your own guide, driver and vehicle, with full flexibility over timing and pace. A group tour is shared with other travelers on a fixed schedule, usually at a lower price. Both options are available on most of our itineraries.
Can I combine Egypt with other destinations like Jordan or Dubai?
Yes. We offer combined itineraries pairing Egypt with Jordan, Dubai, Morocco and other destinations. These multi-country packages are listed alongside our standard Egypt-only tours.
Is tipping expected in Egypt?
Tipping (locally called 'baksheesh') is customary in Egypt for guides, drivers and hotel staff. Amounts vary by service, and your guide can advise on typical amounts during the trip.
What languages are spoken in Egypt, and will my guide speak English?
Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourism. All our guides are fluent English speakers, and guides in other languages can be arranged on request.
How far in advance should I book my Egypt tour?
We recommend booking at least a few weeks ahead, and earlier during peak season (October to April) to secure preferred hotels and Nile cruise cabins. Last-minute bookings are sometimes possible depending on availability.
What is your cancellation and refund policy?
Cancellation terms depend on the specific package and how close to departure you cancel. Please contact our team or check the booking terms for the exact policy on your chosen tour.
Do I need travel insurance for my trip to Egypt?
We strongly recommend travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation and lost luggage, as with any international trip.
Is Wi-Fi and mobile data available during the tour?
Most hotels and Nile cruise ships offer Wi-Fi, though the connection can be slower in remote areas. A local SIM card with data is inexpensive and widely available on arrival if you want reliable mobile coverage throughout your trip.
What kind of accommodation is included in the packages?
Our packages range from comfortable 4-star hotels to 5-star luxury properties and Nile cruise ships, depending on the tour category. Each program page specifies the hotel category, and upgrades are usually available on request.
Can dietary requirements such as vegetarian or halal be accommodated?
Yes. Egyptian cuisine includes many vegetarian dishes, and halal food is standard. Let us know about any dietary requirements or allergies when booking so your guide and hotels can be informed in advance.
Is it possible to visit Egypt during Ramadan?
Yes, Egypt remains open to tourists during Ramadan, and major sites operate on their usual, sometimes shortened, hours. Some restaurants may be closed during daylight hours outside tourist areas, but hotels and tourist restaurants serve meals as normal.
Do I need to book domestic flights separately for Luxor and Aswan?
If your chosen package includes domestic flights, they're booked and included for you. Check the 'included' section of the specific itinerary — some Luxor or Aswan extensions are also available by overnight train or private car for a different experience.
