How to Experience the Best of Luxor: Hot Air Balloon Ride and West Bank Tour

Discover the magic of Luxor, Egypt by soaring above the clouds in a hot air balloon and exploring the stunning West Bank all in one incredible tour. This magical half-day journey showcases the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and the chance to feast on local delicacies. With an expert Egyptologist guide at your service, you will enrich your knowledge of ancient Egypt and see some of the most famous landmarks in the world.

Experience

This tour normally begins with a hotel pickup in Luxor before dawn, and then transport via an air-conditioned vehicle to the West Bank. After safety instructions, participants climb into the balloon’s basket, striving for lift-off as the sun rises above the scenic Nile River. From the high morning sky, the hot air balloon marks the ideal perspective for learning about Luxor’s sprawling metropolis features. Later, it’s possible to explore some of the area’s most well-known gems on the West Bank, including the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and the burial chambers of ancient Egyptian royalty in the Valley of the Kings.

Highlights

The possibilities offered by this tour are nothing short of breathtaking. Here are some of the most unforgettable experiences to anticipate:

Experience Luxor from the heights of a hot air balloon at sunrise

The hot air balloon ride over Luxor is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The panoramic views of the city and the desert surrounding it are unforgettable. The quiet floating of the hot air balloon allows visitors to appreciate the view in complete silence, uninterrupted by any sound.

Explore the splendid tombs at the Valley of the Kings with an Egyptologist tour guide

Located on the west bank of the Nile, the Valley of the Kings is a site of staggering historical significance. Visitors can explore the burial chambers and tombs of pharaohs from centuries past, some of which have been untouched for millennia. The services of a local Egyptologist guide are included in the tour, who will enlighten you with information on the fascinating history and myth that surrounds this beautiful site.

Marvel at the pristine Temple of Queen Hatshepsut

This unique temple is built in the mountains of the West Bank, a true masterpiece of ancient Egyptian architecture. The building has many beautiful decorations and carvings, which provide an abundance of details on the life of ancient Egyptian rulers. Learn about the many secrets of the temple from your expert guide and admire the beauty of the place as you wander around freely.

Enjoy a delicious lunch from a local restaurant

Wrap up the tour with a filling lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savor the flavors of Egyptian cuisine. You can choose from a variety of dishes to suit your palate, and the food is always fresh and delicious.

Full Description

The Luxor Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride and West Bank Tour typically starts early in the morning when visitors are picked up from their hotels in Luxor. They are then driven to the West Bank to begin their hot air balloon trip. After listening to the safety instructions, tour participants are lifted up into the sky to witness the beauty of Luxor from a fantastic new perspective during the sunrise. The ride lasts about one hour, and upon landing, participants that booked just the hot air balloon and transfer ride will be dropped back off in Luxor. If you have booked the option with the semi-private West Bank visit, the tour continues with a journey across the West Bank, as expert Egyptologist guide shares knowledge of ancient Egypt and its secrets, including stories about pharaohs and gods. The first stop is a visit to the Valley of the Kings, where you can explore the tombs of past pharaohs. You will be amazed by the amount of detail, the color, and the preservation of the ancient artifacts found there. After visiting the Valley of the Kings, the tour then heads to the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a beautiful piece of ancient Egyptian architecture with impressive decorations and carvings. The temple was nearly destroyed during an attempt to wipe Hatshepsut’s reign from history, but it has since been partially restored and is now one of the most famous tourist attractions in Egypt. After visiting the temple, the tour concludes with a delicious lunch from a local restaurant where you can sample a variety of Egyptian dishes.

How to Book

If you are planning on visiting Egypt and want to experience the best that Luxor has to offer, book the Luxor Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride and West Bank Tour today! To book your tour, follow the link here: book your tour here and experience the magic of Luxor.

FAQ about Luxor, Egypt

If you’re planning to travel to Egypt, Luxor is a must-visit destination. Known for its ancient temples, tombs, and archaeological sites, Luxor is also surrounded by stunning beauty that includes the Nile River, desert, and agricultural fields. Before you go, read our frequently asked questions about Luxor to prepare for your trip.

What is Luxor?

Luxor is a city located in southern Egypt. It was formerly known as Thebes, one of the most powerful cities during the Pharaonic era of ancient Egypt. Today, Luxor is home to several well-preserved ancient temples and tombs, making it a popular destination for tourists and archaeological researchers.

What are the must-visit places in Luxor?

Luxor is full of must-see sites that are steeped in history and culture. Some of the most popular places to visit include:

1. Karnak Temple Complex

Karnak is the largest temple complex in Egypt, and it is a remarkable feat of ancient architecture. The temple is dedicated to the god Amun, and it is known for its massive columns and impressive hieroglyphics.

2. Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings is known for the many tombs that were built there for pharaohs and other nobles during the New Kingdom period of ancient Egypt. Among the best-known tombs are those of Tutankhamun and Ramesses IV.

3. Luxor Temple

Another must-see temple in Luxor is the Luxor Temple. It was built during the New Kingdom and was dedicated to the Theban Triad of the gods Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. It is known for its magnificent statuary and elegant carvings.

4. Hatshepsut Temple

The Hatshepsut Temple is a unique temple built during the New Kingdom when Hatshepsut was the pharaoh. It is known for its impressive architectural design and the beautiful scenery that surrounds it.

5. Colossi of Memnon

These are two massive stone statues standing in the Theban Necropolis in Luxor. They depict Pharaoh Amenhotep III and are known for their grandeur and historic significance.

What is Luxor known for?

Luxor is known for its history and its many ancient temples and tombs. It is also known for being a hub of archaeological research as well as a popular tourist destination. Additionally, Luxor is home to some of the most stunning natural scenery found anywhere in Egypt.

What is the best time to visit Luxor?

The best time to visit Luxor is during the winter months from November through March. During this time, the temperatures are mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the temples and tombs. Summers are extremely hot and should be avoided if possible.

How can I get to Luxor?

Luxor can be reached by plane or train from Cairo. If you are already in Egypt, you can also take a bus or private car to Luxor.

What should I wear when visiting Luxor?

When visiting Luxor, it is best to wear comfortable, lightweight clothing that covers your arms and legs. This is especially true when visiting religious sites like temples. It is also a good idea to wear sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be very strong in Luxor.

What language do they speak in Luxor?

The official language of Luxor is Arabic. However, it is not uncommon for people to speak English, especially in tourist areas.

Is it safe to travel to Luxor?

Luxor is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it is always a good idea to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Like any major tourist destination, Luxor can attract pickpockets and scammers looking to take advantage of tourists. It’s important to stay alert and avoid walking alone or in deserted areas at night.

What currency is used in Luxor?

The currency used in Luxor is the Egyptian pound (EGP). It is recommended to have some cash on hand when visiting Luxor, as credit cards are not widely accepted outside of hotels and larger restaurants.

What is the food like in Luxor?

The food in Luxor is typically Egyptian cuisine with a focus on fresh vegetables, grains, and meats. Some popular dishes to try include kushari, foul, baharat, and kofta. It’s important to be cautious about where you eat, though, as food hygiene standards may not be the same as in western countries.

What should I know about Egyptian culture before visiting Luxor?

Egyptian culture is steeped in history and tradition, and it’s important to be respectful of these customs when visiting Luxor. For example, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home, and women will often cover their heads when entering religious sites. Additionally, it’s important to be mindful of your behavior and dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.

Book Your Tour Now

Luxor is an amazing destination that offers travelers a glimpse into ancient Egyptian history and culture. By following our frequently asked questions about Luxor, you can prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey to one of the world’s most intriguing destinations. Remember to pack wisely, be respectful of local customs, and enjoy all that Luxor has to offer.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Luxor

Egypt is one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world, thanks to its rich cultural heritage and unique landmarks. Luxor, situated on the east bank of the Nile River, is a city full of historical sites and attractions that tell a story of Ancient Egypt. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Luxor.

Step 1: Visit the Luxor Temple

One of the top sites in Luxor is the Luxor Temple. It is located in the heart of the city and dates back to the New Kingdom. The temple is a testament to the glory and grandeur of Ancient Egypt, featuring sculptures and hieroglyphics that tell the story of pharaohs, gods and goddesses.

What to do at the Luxor Temple

• Take a guided tour of the temple to learn about its history and significance
• Observe the giant statues of Ramesses II and Amenhotep III at the entrance of the temple
• Marvel at the intricate hieroglyphics and artwork on the temple walls
• Visit the shrine of Alexander the Great, located within the temple’s precincts
• Admire the obelisk of Queen Hatshepsut, which is located just outside the temple entrance

Step 2: Explore the Karnak Temple Complex

The Karnak Temple Complex is the largest ancient religious site in the world, featuring temples, chapels, and shrines built over a period of 2,000 years. The complex was dedicated to the Theban gods of Egypt and was a place of pilgrimage for millions of people during the New Kingdom.

What to do at the Karnak Temple Complex

• Take a guided tour of the complex to learn about its rich history and features
• Walk the grand avenue of sphinxes that leads to the Great Hypostyle Hall
• Visit the Great Hypostyle Hall, featuring 134 massive columns in 16 rows
• Observe the sacred lake, which was used for ritual purification of the priests

Step 3: Visit the Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings is located on the west bank of the Nile River and was the royal burial site for pharaohs from the 18th to the 20th dynasty. It is home to over 60 tombs, including that of King Tutankhamun, which was discovered by Howard Carter in 1922.

What to do at the Valley of the Kings

• Take a guided tour of the tombs to learn about their history and significance
• Visit the tomb of King Tutankhamun, the most famous of all the tombs
• Observe the intricate murals and colorful frescoes on the tomb walls
• Marvel at the massive pillars and grandiose architecture of the royal tombs

Step 4: Discover the Temple of Hatshepsut

The Temple of Hatshepsut is a stunning mortuary temple located on the west bank of the Nile River in Luxor. It was built during the reign of the 18th dynasty and was dedicated to the worship of the Egyptian god Amun.

What to do at the Temple of Hatshepsut

• Take a guided tour of the temple to learn about its history and significance
• Observe the grand colonnaded terraces and ramps of the temple
• Marvel at the beautifully preserved pillars and statues of the pharaohs
• Admire the stunning views of the surrounding landscape from the temple

Step 5: Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Luxor

A hot air balloon ride over Luxor is one of the most exciting and spectacular experiences you can have in Egypt. The ride takes you high into the sky, giving you a bird’s eye view of the city and its iconic landmarks.

What to do during a hot air balloon ride over Luxor

• Enjoy a breathtaking sunrise as you float over the Nile River and the city of Luxor
• Observe the ancient temples and tombs from above, including the Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, and Valley of the Kings
• Take stunning photos of the beautiful landscape and historic sites below
• Experience the tranquility and peacefulness of floating freely in the sky

Book Your Tour Now

Luxor is an amazing city with so much to offer to tourists seeking to learn about Ancient Egypt’s rich cultural heritage. The Luxor temple, Karnak temple complex, Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut, and hot air balloon rides are some of the top attractions not to miss. With this step-by-step guide, you can make the most out of your time as a tourist in Luxor and create unforgettable memories.