How to Plan Your Private Tour: Valley of the Kings, Queen Hatshepsut Temple, Luxor and Karnak Temples in Luxor

If you want to experience the rich history and culture of Luxor in just a day, a private tour is the way to go. With a hassle-free pick-up and comfortable transportation, you can visit all the top attractions with ease. Here’s how you can plan your own private tour to see the Valley of the Kings, Queen Hatshepsut Temple, Luxor and Karnak Temples.

Step 1: Booking the Tour

The first step is to book the tour using the link below. The tour is offered by a third-party company and you can book it in advance for greater peace of mind. The tour includes a qualified Egyptologist guide who will show you the top attractions, transportation and entry fees for the temples, lunch, bottled water and gratuities. Book the tour here

Step 2: Pick-Up and Drop-Off

The tour offers pick-up and drop-off services from Luxor Airport, train station, or your hotel. The starting time of the tour is at 9 am, so make sure to arrive on time.

Step 3: Valley of the Kings

The first stop is at the Valley of the Kings, which is located on the west bank of the Nile River. It is a vast, rocky valley with tombs built for Pharaohs and powerful nobles of the New Kingdom. You can explore the tombs with your Egyptologist guide and learn about the history and legends of the ancient Egyptians. The tour includes entrance fees to the Valley of the Kings, so you don’t have to worry about additional expenses.

Step 4: Queen Hatshepsut Temple

The next stop is the Queen Hatshepsut Temple, another attraction on the west bank of the Nile. The temple is built on three levels and dedicated to the god Amun-Ra. It has a unique design with a colonnaded structure and rock-cut architecture. Your guide will provide you with insightful details about the reign of Queen Hatshepsut and her contribution to ancient Egypt’s history.

Step 5: Karnak Temple

The third stop is the Karnak Temple, located on the east bank of the Nile. The temple complex covers a vast area of more than 200 acres and is dedicated to the god Amun-Ra. It was built and expanded over 1300 years by different pharaohs, resulting in an impressive array of structures and artworks. With the entrance fee included, you can marvel at the grandeur of the columns, obelisks, and statues in the temple complex.

Step 6: Luxor Temple

The final stop is the Luxor Temple, located in the center of Luxor city. It was built by Amenhotep III and later expanded by Ramses II. The temple is dedicated to the god Amun-Ra, his wife Mut, and their son Khonsu. Your guide will take you through the temple’s courtyards, chapels, and halls, explaining the religious significance and historical context of each feature.

Step 7: Lunch

After a morning of exploring ancient history, it’s time for a break. The tour includes lunch at a local restaurant where you can enjoy a variety of Egyptian foods and drinks.

Step 8: Return Transportation

After lunch, the tour provides transport back to your original pick-up point at Luxor Airport, the train station, or your hotel. You will have saved yourself a lot of time with the private transportation and avoid crowds that are usually at these attractions. Note that the gratuity for your guide is also included in your tour.

Book Your Tour Now

With the Private Tour Valley of the Kings, Queen Hatshepsut Temple, Luxor and Karnak Temples from Luxor Airport, you can experience the best of Luxor’s history and culture without any hassle. With the tour’s expert guide, private transportation, entrance fees, and lunch provided, all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the rich history of ancient Egypt. Book your tour today to avoid disappointment and missing out on the best of Luxor.

Frequently Asked Questions about Luxor

Luxor is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Egypt, drawing millions of visitors each year. The city offers a unique blend of ancient Egyptian history, stunning architecture, and modern amenities. Here are some frequently asked questions that will give you a better understanding of the city.

1. What is Luxor famous for?

Luxor is famous for its ancient Egyptian history and architecture. The city was once known as Thebes, and it was the capital of Egypt during the New Kingdom period. Luxor is home to some of the most impressive ancient temples and monuments in the world, including the Karnak Temple Complex, the Valley of the Kings, and the Temple of Luxor.

2. When is the best time to visit Luxor?

The best time to visit Luxor is during the winter months, from November to February. The weather is cool and dry during this time, making it perfect for sightseeing. The summer months, from June to August, can be extremely hot, with temperatures reaching up to 45°C.

3. What are the top attractions in Luxor?

Luxor has many attractions that are worth visiting. Some of the top attractions include: – Karnak Temple Complex: This is one of the largest ancient temple complexes in the world, featuring a vast array of temples, chapels, and other buildings. – Valley of the Kings: This is where many of the pharaohs of the New Kingdom were buried, including Tutankhamun. – Temple of Luxor: This temple is located in the heart of Luxor and is dedicated to the god Amun. – Luxor Museum: This museum houses a vast collection of artifacts from the ancient Egyptian period.

4. How do I get to Luxor?

Luxor has its own international airport, and it is also easily accessible by train or bus from other major cities in Egypt. If you’re already in Egypt, you can take a flight or a train from Cairo, Alexandria, or Aswan.

5. What is the local currency in Luxor?

The local currency in Luxor is the Egyptian pound (EGP). You can easily exchange your currency at banks and exchange offices in the city, and most hotels and shops accept major credit cards.

6. What is the local language in Luxor?

The official language of Egypt is Arabic, but English is widely spoken in Luxor, particularly in tourist areas.

7. What should I wear in Luxor?

Egypt is a conservative country, and it’s always a good idea to dress modestly, particularly if you’re visiting religious sites such as temples or mosques. It’s also important to wear comfortable shoes, particularly if you’re planning to do a lot of walking or hiking.

8. Is Luxor safe for tourists?

Luxor is generally considered to be a safe city for tourists. However, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take normal precautions when you’re traveling in any foreign city. Avoid isolated areas at night and be wary of pickpockets and scammers in tourist areas.

9. What is the food like in Luxor?

Egyptian cuisine is delicious and varied, with plenty of options for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Some popular dishes to try in Luxor include koshary (a hearty vegetarian dish made with lentils, rice, and pasta), falafel (deep-fried balls of ground chickpeas), ful medames (a breakfast dish made with cooked fava beans), and tahini (a sesame paste used in dips and sauces).

10. What is the weather like in Luxor?

Luxor has a hot desert climate, with long, hot summers and short, cool winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 45°C, while winter temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C. It’s important to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen if you’re visiting in the summer months.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Luxor

Luxor is a city located in Upper Egypt, and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. This ancient city holds many historical and cultural treasures that attract millions of visitors every year. From the Valley of the Kings to the Luxor Temple, there are endless things to see and do in Luxor. In this guide, we will cover the most popular attractions and activities that will make your Luxor visit unforgettable.

1. Visit the Valley of the Kings

Located on the west bank of the Nile River, the Valley of the Kings is a must-visit destination for those interested in ancient Egyptian history. Home to the tombs of pharaohs from the New Kingdom era, this site offers visitors an up-close look at the incredible Egyptian burial customs. Visitors can explore various tombs, including the tomb of King Tutankhamun, which is the most famous of all.

2. Explore the Luxor Temple

One of the most magnificent temples in Egypt, the Luxor Temple, is a vast complex that dates back to the 14th century BC. The temple is a symbol of the power and prosperity of the pharaohs during the New Kingdom era. Visitors can marvel at the colossal statues, intricate carvings, and beautifully preserved hieroglyphics that adorn the walls of the temple.

3. Wander Around the Karnak Temple Complex

The Karnak Temple Complex is the largest ancient religious site in the world and a must-visit landmark in Luxor. The complex boasts a vast array of structures, including temples, chapels, pylons, and statues, all dedicated to the gods of ancient Egypt. Visitors can walk through the impressive Hypostyle Hall or marvel at the gigantic stone columns at the Great Temple of Amun.

4. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

For a bird’s eye view of Luxor and its surroundings, a hot air balloon ride is a must-do activity. Visitors can enjoy the stunning sunrise views over the Nile River as they soar high above the city. Most hot air balloon rides include hotel pickup, balloon setup, and an Egyptian breakfast after the flight.

5. Cross the Nile River on a Felucca

A felucca is a traditional Egyptian sailboat used for river transportation. Cross the Nile River on a felucca to experience one of the most iconic activities in Luxor. Visitors can enjoy the gentle breeze while admiring the stunning views of Luxor’s skyline.

6. Explore the Luxor Museum

The Luxor Museum houses a vast collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts and treasures, including objects from the tombs of Tutankhamun and Akhenaten. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries, which feature well-preserved statues, papyri, pottery, and more.

7. Visit the Hatshepsut Temple

The Hatshepsut Temple, also known as the Deir el-Bahri Temple, is another landmark in Luxor that should be on every visitor’s itinerary. The temple boasts a unique design, with terraces and colonnades built into the natural rock formation. Visitors can explore the temple’s courtyards, sanctuaries, and chapels while marveling at the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

8. Shop at the Luxor Souk

The Luxor Souk is a bustling market near the Luxor Temple, where visitors can experience the vibrant culture of Luxor firsthand. The souk offers a wide variety of souvenirs, including handmade textiles, alabaster statues, and traditional jewelry. Visitors should be prepared to bargain for the best prices.

9. Relax at the Luxor Riverfront Promenade

After a long day of sightseeing, visitors can unwind and relax along the Luxor Riverfront Promenade. The promenade offers stunning views of the Nile River and is lined with restaurants and cafes where visitors can sample local cuisine and local beverages.

10. Take a Day Trip to Abydos

For visitors interested in exploring beyond the city of Luxor, the Abydos temple complex is a worthy destination. Located about three hours from Luxor, the Abydos temple complex is home to some of the most well-preserved ancient Egyptian art and architecture. Visitors can explore the temple’s deep blue and gold relief carvings, and learn about the fascinating history of the pharaohs.

Book Your Tour Now

Luxor is a city rich in history and culture, with endless attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. From the Valley of the Kings to the Luxor Temple, Luxor offers a glimpse into the fascinating world of ancient Egypt. Visitors should be sure to take a hot air balloon ride and enjoy the stunning sunrise views over the Nile River. With this list of things to see and do in Luxor, visitors are sure to have an unforgettable experience in this historic city.