How to Plan Your Luxor Day Tour (Valley of Kings) Small Group
Are you planning a trip to Luxor, Egypt and interested in exploring the ancient wonders of the region? Look no further than the Luxor Day Tour, which includes visits to the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and the Temple of Karnak. In this guide, we’ll break down the details of the tour, as well as provide tips for planning your trip to ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience.Experience
Experience the wonders of ancient Egypt on this Luxor Day Tour featuring some of the country’s most iconic landmarks.Highlights
Some of the highlights of the tour include:- Exploring the Valley of the Kings, home to 63 royal tombs dating back almost 4000 years
- Visiting the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, an impressive tribute to one of Egypt’s most powerful female pharaohs
- Marveling at the giant statues of the Colossi of Memnon
- Indulging in a traditional local lunch
- Delving into the vast Temple of Karnak, admiring its breathtaking architecture and intricate hieroglyphics
Full Description
Your day will begin early in the morning with a pickup by air-conditioned coach as you set out for Luxor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival, your guide will be waiting to greet you and accompany you on an unforgettable journey through ancient Egypt. Your first stop is the West Bank of the Nile, home to the legendary Valley of the Kings. Here, you’ll discover 63 royal tombs, including the tomb of King Tutankhamun. These tombs are adorned with elaborate art, giving visitors a fascinating insight into the lives of Egypt’s rulers. Next, you’ll visit the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut at Deir el Bahari. This impressive tribute to one of Egypt’s most powerful female pharaohs features stunning reliefs depicting her life and accomplishments. Marvel at the giant statues of the Colossi of Memnon before crossing back to the East Bank. After working up an appetite, enjoy a traditional local lunch before continuing on to the vast Temple of Karnak. This complex of temples and chapels was built over a period of almost 2000 years and is a testament to the skill of ancient Egyptian architects and craftsmen. Admire its breathtaking architecture, including the massive hypostyle hall with towering columns, as well as intricate hieroglyphics and other carvings throughout.Booking Your Tour
To book the Luxor Day Tour, simply visit the following link: book the tour here. Make sure to select the “Luxor Day Tour (Valley of Kings) Small Group” option and choose your preferred date of travel.Tips for Your Trip
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your Luxor Day Tour:- Dress comfortably and in accordance with the weather. Luxor can be very hot, especially in the summer months.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there will be a lot of walking and standing involved in the tour.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
- Consider bringing a small daypack to carry any essentials, such as water, snacks, and a camera.
- Be respectful of the ancient sites and follow any rules or guidelines set forth by your guide.
- Don’t forget to bring your sense of adventure and wonder as you explore some of the world’s most iconic historical sites!
Frequently Asked Questions about Luxor
Located on the bank of the Nile River in Upper Egypt, Luxor is a city that boasts of rich history and culture. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Luxor.
1. What is Luxor known for?
Luxor is primarily known for its ancient ruins and archaeological sites, notably the Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, and Luxor Temple. Its rich history and well-preserved monuments make Luxor a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts alike. Additionally, the city is also known for its hot air balloon rides, traditional markets, and Nile cruises.
2. How do I get to Luxor?
Luxor International Airport is the main airport in the city, with flights from Cairo and other major cities in Egypt. Several airlines operate flights to Luxor including EgyptAir, Nile Air, and FlyEgypt. Alternatively, you can also travel to Luxor by train or bus from other cities in Egypt such as Cairo or Aswan.
3. What is the best time to visit Luxor?
The best time to visit Luxor is during the winter months, between October and March when the weather is cooler and more pleasant. Summers in Luxor can be brutal with temperatures reaching up to 45°C or 113°F, making it difficult to explore the ancient ruins and outdoor attractions.
4. What are the top attractions in Luxor?
Luxor has plenty of attractions to offer, but here are some of the must-visit attractions:
- Karnak Temple
- Valley of the Kings
- Luxor Temple
- Colossi of Memnon
- Medinet Habu
- Deir El-Medina
- Hatshepsut Temple
5. How long should I spend in Luxor?
It is recommended to spend at least 3 to 4 days in Luxor to explore most of its attractions. This will also give you enough time to fully immerse yourself in the city’s history and culture. If you want to explore the surrounding areas or enjoy a Nile cruise, then you may want to spend more time in Luxor.
6. Is Luxor safe for tourists?
Luxor is generally safe for tourists, and the government has taken several measures to ensure the safety of visitors. However, like any tourist destination, it is always important to stay aware of your surroundings, take necessary precautions, and follow the advice of your tour guide, especially while exploring the markets or crowded areas.
7. What is the local cuisine in Luxor?
Luxor offers a variety of local cuisine, with Egyptian and Middle Eastern flavors dominating the local food scene. Some of the must-try dishes include:
- Koshari – a hearty vegetarian dish made with chickpeas, lentils, rice, and macaroni
- Shawarma – meat cooked on a spit and served in a wrap with vegetables and sauce
- Ful Medames – a delicious bean dish usually served for breakfast with bread and tahini sauce
- Molokhiya – a stew made with jute leaves and chicken, often served with rice
- Umm Ali – a traditional Egyptian dessert made with puff pastry, nuts, and sweetened milk
8. What is the local currency in Luxor?
The official currency in Luxor is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). ATMs are widely available in the city, and most hotels and tourist establishments accept credit cards. However, it is always advisable to carry some cash for local transactions and tipping.
9. What should I wear while visiting Luxor?
As Luxor is a predominantly Muslim city, it is recommended to dress modestly while visiting the historical sites and public places. Women should cover their heads and wear long pants or skirts, while men should avoid shorts and tank tops. Comfortable shoes and light, breathable clothing are also recommended, especially during the summer months.
10. Can I enter religious sites in Luxor if I am not a Muslim?
Yes, non-Muslims are allowed to enter the religious sites in Luxor. However, it is important to respect the local culture and traditions by dressing modestly and removing footwear before entering the mosque or temple.
In conclusion, Luxor is a city with a rich history and culture, and it offers plenty of attractions to visitors. As with any travel destination, it is important to stay aware of your surroundings, follow local customs and traditions, and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Luxor, Egypt
Luxor, also known as the world’s largest open-air museum, is a city located in Upper Egypt. It’s rich in history, culture, and attractions that make it a top destination for tourists visiting Egypt. The city is home to ancient temples, tombs, and ruins that give visitors a glimpse of its fascinating past. With so much to see and do, it can be challenging to decide how to spend your time in Luxor. In this guide, we will provide you with a step-by-step plan on how to make the most of your time in the city.1. Visit the West Bank
The West Bank of Luxor is known for its ancient tombs and temples, including the Valley of the Kings, the Valley of the Queens, and the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut. To visit these sites, we recommend booking a guided tour with a licensed tour guide who can provide you with in-depth knowledge and history of each site.1.1 Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Kings is a collection of tombs that were built for the pharaohs and their consorts during the New Kingdom period. It’s considered one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world, with over 60 tombs discovered thus far. Some of the tombs include those of Tutankhamun, Seti I, Ramesses II, and Hatshepsut.Tip: Purchase a photography permit
If you’re interested in taking photographs or videos inside the tombs, then make sure to purchase a photography permit.1.2 Valley of the Queens
The Valley of the Queens is located in the southern part of the West Bank and is known for the tombs of the queens of the 18th, 19th, and 20th dynasties. There are over 90 tombs in the valley, including those of Nefertari, the wife of Ramesses II, and Amunherkhepshef, the son of Ramesses III.Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon
To beat the crowds and the heat, we recommend visiting the Valley of the Queens early morning or late afternoon.1.3 Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut
The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut is one of the most prominent and well-preserved temples in Luxor. It’s located at the foot of the mountainous cliffs near the Valley of the Kings and is dedicated to the Pharaoh Hatshepsut. The temple is known for its unique architecture, including the terraces built into the mountain.Tip: Wear comfortable shoes
To explore the temple, you’ll need to walk up several levels, so wearing comfortable shoes is essential.2. Explore the East Bank
The East Bank of Luxor is home to many ancient temples, including the Karnak Temple, the Luxor Temple, and the Mummification Museum.2.1 Karnak Temple
The Karnak Temple is the largest ancient religious site in the world, covering over 100 hectares. It’s a vast complex of temples, chapels, pylons, and other buildings dedicated to the Theban gods. The temple was built over several centuries, with many pharaohs contributing to its construction.Tip: Attend the Sound and Light show
To experience the Karnak Temple at its best, we recommend attending the Sound and Light Show, where you can learn about the temple’s history and see it come to life at night.2.2 Luxor Temple
The Luxor Temple, located in the heart of Luxor city, is a significant ancient Egyptian temple that was dedicated to the Theban triad of gods Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. The temple was built during the New Kingdom period and is famous for its colossal statues of Ramses II.Tip: Visit at night
If you want to see the temple in a different light, we recommend visiting at night when the temple is illuminated.2.3 Mummification Museum
The Mummification Museum is located on the Corniche, overlooking the Nile River, and is dedicated to the art of mummification. The museum showcases the tools and techniques used by the ancient Egyptians to mummify their dead.Tip: Watch the film
To learn more about the mummification process, make sure to watch the short film that’s played in the museum.3. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
A hot air balloon ride over Luxor is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you can’t miss. It offers a unique perspective of the city and its ancient ruins. You’ll be able to see the West Bank’s Valley of the Kings, the Valley of the Queens, and the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut from above.Tip: Book in advance
During peak tourist season, hot air balloon rides can sell out quickly, so we recommend booking in advance.4. Explore Luxor’s Local Markets
No trip to Luxor is complete without visiting its local markets. The city is full of bazaars and souks that offer a range of goods, including spices, textiles, and souvenirs.4.1 Khan El-Khalili Luxor
The Khan El-Khalili Luxor is a local market that’s located in the heart of the city. It offers a wide selection of items, including handmade crafts, jewelry, and spices.Tip: Bargain
When shopping in the markets, don’t be afraid to bargain with the vendors to get the best price.4.2 Luxor Tourist Bazaar
The Luxor Tourist Bazaar is located near the Luxor Temple and offers a range of souvenirs and traditional Egyptian gifts.Tip: Look for authentic items
Make sure to look for authentic items that are made in Egypt rather than cheap imitations.Book Your Tour Now
Luxor is a fascinating city that has something for everybody. From ancient tombs and temples to hot air balloon rides and local markets, this city has it all. We hope this guide has given you a good idea of what you can do during your visit to Luxor. Remember to book a licensed tour guide for your West Bank visits, wear comfortable shoes when exploring, and bargain at the local markets. Happy travels!Table of Contents
