How to Plan Your Luxor Tour in 2 Days: East Bank, West Bank, and Sailing to Banana Island

If you’re planning on visiting Luxor, Egypt and want to experience the very best the city has to offer, you should consider booking the Luxor Overnight Tour, offered by Viator. With private transportation and a professional, experienced tour guide, you’ll get to explore both the East and West banks of the Nile and even get to take a sailboat ride to Banana Island! Here’s how to plan your two-day tour:

Day 1: East Bank

Your tour will start with a 6:30AM pickup from your hotel or the train station in Luxor. You’ll be transported to the East Bank of the Nile, where you will visit the following sites:

1. Karnak Temple

Karnak Temple is the largest temple complex in Egypt and was built over a period of 1000 years. It is dedicated to the god Amun and is a must-see for any visitor to Luxor.

2. Luxor Temple

Luxor Temple is located in the heart of the city and is one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Egypt. It was dedicated to the god Amun and was used for festivals and ceremonies.

Day 2: West Bank and Sailing to Banana Island

Day 2 of your tour will start with another 6:30AM pickup from your hotel or train station. You will then head to the West Bank of the Nile to visit the following sites:

1. Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings is where the ancient pharaohs were buried. There are more than 60 tombs in the area, including the tomb of Tutankhamun.

2. Hatshepsut Temple

Hatshepsut Temple was built in honor of the only female pharaoh of Egypt, Hatshepsut. The temple is a stunning example of ancient Egyptian architecture and is a must-see for any visitor to Luxor.

3. Colossi of Memnon

The Colossi of Memnon are two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. They are located just outside of Luxor and are a popular photo spot for visitors.

4. Sail to Banana Island

In the afternoon, you will take a sailboat ride to Banana Island, where you will have some time to relax and explore. Banana Island is a beautiful spot on the Nile and is a great way to end your tour.

What’s Included

Your tour includes a private, modern air-conditioned vehicle, a professional, experienced tour guide, and all fees and taxes. You will also have the option to select a pickup point from your hotel or train station. Gratuities are included in the price.

Additional Info

Confirmation will be received at the time of booking. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible and transportation is wheelchair accessible. The surfaces are also wheelchair accessible. If you have any heart problems or other serious medical conditions, please consult with your doctor before booking.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded. Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted. Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.

Book the Luxor Overnight Tour here

In Conclusion

If you’re looking for the best way to experience Luxor and the surrounding area, the Luxor Overnight Tour is the way to go. With private transportation, a professional tour guide, and all fees and taxes included, you’ll get to see all the must-see sites on the East and West banks of the Nile and even get to take a sailboat ride to Banana Island. Book your tour today and start planning your trip to Luxor!

An Insider’s Guide to Luxor: Beyond the Tourist Spots

Luxor is one of the most famous destinations in Egypt, renowned for its stunning landmarks and ancient architecture. But beyond the usual tourist attractions, Luxor has a rich culture, history, and local gems that make it an exciting place to explore. Here is an insider’s guide to Luxor that will make your trip unforgettable.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

While Luxor’s famous attractions like the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple are worth visiting, there are also many hidden gems that are off the beaten path. Start by exploring the alleys of Luxor’s old town, known as the Medina, where you can visit small shops and see artisanal production of pottery, perfume, and spices. If you’re interested in ancient Egyptian history, visit the Luxor Museum, which showcases a range of fascinating artifacts and exhibits. Finally, make your way to Habu Temple, a stunning religious site that is lesser-known but equally impressive.

Dining Spots: Local Cuisine with a Twist

Egyptian cuisine is well-known around the world, and Luxor has some delicious local dishes to offer. For a unique dining experience, try the food at Sofra, a restaurant that specializes in modern interpretations of Egyptian street food. Or if you’re in the mood for something more traditional, head to Al-Sahaby Lane, where you can enjoy Egyptian classics like koshari and molokhia. For breakfast, try fuul and ta’meya from one of Luxor’s street vendors, and wash it down with some fresh sugarcane juice.

Cultural Experiences: Art, Music, and Festivals

Luxor has a vibrant cultural scene that is worth exploring. If you’re interested in art, visit the Luxor Art Gallery, where you can see contemporary works by local artists. For live music, check out the House of Music, which hosts regular performances of traditional Egyptian music. Finally, if you’re lucky enough to visit Luxor during the Luxor International Film Festival, make sure to attend some screenings – it’s one of the biggest film festivals in Africa and the Middle East.

Local History: Stories from the City’s Past

Luxor’s history dates back thousands of years, and there are many captivating stories that still resonate today. For example, visit the Temple of Luxor and imagine the grandeur of its original design, or learn about the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb at the Valley of the Kings. Make sure to visit the tombs of the artisans, where you can see well-preserved depictions of daily life, or take a hot-air balloon ride and see the city from above, just like ancient pharaohs would have done.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

If you’re looking for something truly unique in Luxor, consider exploring Banana Island. This uninhabited island in the middle of the Nile is accessible only by boat and offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape. Alternatively, visit the nearby village of Al-Qurna, where you can see the tombs of the nobles and the remains of the ancient city of Thebes. Finally, take a felucca ride at sunset and enjoy the peacefulness and serenity of the Nile – it’s an experience you’ll never forget.

With this insider’s guide, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip to Luxor, Egypt, and have a new appreciation for this fascinating city and its culture.