Ultimate Guide: Full Day Tour of the East West Banks from Luxor

If you’re planning a trip to Luxor, Egypt, you can’t miss the Full Day Tour of the East West Banks. Throughout this tour, you’ll explore the most important historical monuments in Luxor with an Egyptologist tour guide. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your tour.

What to Expect

The Full Day Tour of the East West Banks from Luxor is an informative and enlightening day trip that will take you to a variety of landmarks spread across both banks of the Nile. The first site you’ll visit is the Temple of Karnak, known for its age-old pylons and chapels. Then, you’ll move on to Luxor Temple and marvel at the Colossi of Memnon before heading to the West Bank. There, you’ll visit Valley of the Kings where the tombs of three pharaohs are located along with the splendid Temple of Queen Hatshepsut. Your Egyptologist tour guide will provide historical context and fascinating stories about each of the places you visit, bringing this ancient land to life for you.

Why You Should Take This Tour

Taking this tour offers several benefits. Here are the top reasons why you should consider booking it:

Expert Guide

When you visit Luxor, it’s important to have an experienced and knowledgeable guide who can enrich your understanding of this ancient city’s fascinating history. With this tour, you’ll be accompanied by an Egyptologist tour guide who will provide you with valuable insights, offer extensive explanations and answer any questions you might have about the sites you visit.

Time-Saving

The Full Day East West Banks of Luxor Tour is arranged to maximize your time as you explore this magical land. You won’t need to worry about transportation arrangements, getting lost or figuring out where to go next. Everything is taken care of for you.

Comfortable Transportation

Throughout the journey, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring that you’re comfortable and protected from the sun as you move across East and West Banks.

Lunch Provided

During the tour, you will be taken to a local restaurant for lunch where you can indulge in Egyptian cuisine.

What’s Included

The booking includes:

• Pickup and drop-off from your accommodation on the East Bank
• Egyptologist guide
• Mineral water during travel
• All service taxes
• Lunch at a local restaurant
• Pickup from West Bank hotels (available at 10 USD per person)
• Monument entrance fees

What’s Not Included

Please note that this tour does not include:

• Gratuities
• Additional purchases made during the tour

Things to Know Before You Go

• This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.
• Don’t forget to wear sunblock, comfortable shoes and carry a hat or head scarf to protect your head from the sun.
• You’ll be visiting sites of religious and cultural significance, therefore it’s important to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees.

Final Thoughts

The Full Day Tour of the East West Banks from Luxor is an incredible way to explore the rich history of this ancient city. With an experienced guide and comfortable transportation, you can relax and enjoy every minute of your tour. Book the tour here and take the first step in immersing yourself in the mysteries and histories of Luxor, Egypt.

Luxor: Frequently Asked Questions

Luxor is an ancient city located in Upper Egypt, known for its rich history, culture, and famous landmarks such as the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and Luxor Temple. In this article, we will provide you with the answers to some frequently asked questions about Luxor.

1. What is the best time to visit Luxor?

The best time to visit Luxor is during the winter months from December to February, when the weather is mild and pleasant. The summer months from June to August can be extremely hot, with temperatures reaching up to 50°C. However, if you can bear the heat, you may find cheaper airfare and hotel rates during this period.

2. What are the must-visit landmarks in Luxor?

Luxor is home to many iconic landmarks that attract tourists from around the world. Some of the must-visit landmarks include:

• The Valley of the Kings
• Karnak Temple
• Luxor Temple
• The Colossi of Memnon
• The Temple of Hatshepsut
• The Ramesseum

Visiting these landmarks will provide you with a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Luxor and Ancient Egypt.

3. Is it safe to visit Luxor?

Luxor is generally safe to visit, but travelers should still exercise caution and avoid going out alone at night. It is also recommended to stay clear of demonstrations or political gatherings, as they can become violent. Tourists should also be mindful of pickpockets and take necessary precautions to safeguard their valuables.

4. What is the currency used in Luxor?

The currency used in Luxor is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most major hotels, restaurants, and shops.

5. What is the local cuisine of Luxor?

Luxor offers a variety of local dishes that are worth trying, such as Koshari (a mix of rice, lentils, and pasta), Foul Medames (a type of fava bean stew), and Taameya (Egyptian falafel). When dining out, make sure to try the fresh bread and the popular drink, hibiscus tea.

6. How should I dress when visiting Luxor?

Visitors to Luxor should dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites. It is recommended to cover your shoulders and knees and avoid wearing tight or revealing clothing. Comfortable walking shoes are also advisable, especially when visiting the Valley of the Kings or Karnak Temple, as these sites involve a lot of walking.

7. What is the best way to get around Luxor?

The best way to get around Luxor is by taxi or private car. Public transportation is available but can be difficult to navigate for tourists. Taxis are affordable and can be easily hailed off the street or booked in advance through your hotel. Private car services are also available for longer trips or sightseeing tours.

8. Are there any cultural customs or etiquette I should be aware of in Luxor?

In Luxor, it is important to show respect for the local culture and customs. When entering religious sites, visitors should remove their shoes and hats and dress conservatively. It is also considered polite to greet people with “Salam” (Hello) or “Sabaah Al-Kheer” (Good Morning) and to avoid touching or public displays of affection in public.

9. What activities are available in Luxor apart from sightseeing?

Apart from the historical and cultural landmarks, Luxor offers a range of activities for visitors, such as:

• Hot air balloon rides over the Valley of the Kings
• Felucca rides on the Nile River
• Horse and camel rides in the desert
• Visiting local markets and bazaars

These activities provide visitors with a chance to experience the natural beauty and culture of Luxor beyond the historical sites.

10. What souvenirs can I buy in Luxor?

Luxor offers a range of souvenirs that make great gifts for friends and family back home. Some popular souvenirs include:

• Papyrus paintings and prints
• Spices and herbs
• Handmade jewelry and pottery
• Traditional clothing and textiles

Make sure to bargain when shopping in the local bazaars and markets for the best prices.

Book Your Tour Now

Luxor is a fascinating destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Ancient Egypt. Whether you are interested in sightseeing, adventure activities, or culinary experiences, Luxor has something for everyone. With a little preparation and caution, you can enjoy a memorable and safe trip to this historical city.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Luxor

Luxor is an ancient city and an open-air museum that offers a wealth of attractions for tourists. From the famous Valley of the Kings to the magnificent temples of Karnak and Luxor, there is an abundance of things to see and do in Luxor. In this guide, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Luxor.

1. Visit the Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Luxor. It is located on the west bank of the Nile River and is home to more than 60 tombs of pharaohs and other high-ranking officials from the New Kingdom period. The most famous of these tombs is that of Tutankhamun, which was discovered by Howard Carter in 1922. The Valley of the Kings is open daily from 6 am to 4 pm.

2. Explore the Karnak Temple Complex

The Karnak Temple Complex is a vast temple complex that was built over a period of 2000 years. It is located on the east bank of the Nile River and is one of the largest religious complexes in the world. The complex consists of several temples, chapels, pylons, and other buildings that were constructed by various pharaohs over the centuries. The most impressive structure in the complex is the Great Hypostyle Hall, which has 134 massive columns. The Karnak Temple Complex is open daily from 6 am to 5:30 pm.

3. Visit the Luxor Temple

The Luxor Temple is another impressive temple complex that is located on the east bank of the Nile River. It was built during the New Kingdom period and was dedicated to the god Amun. The temple complex consists of several buildings, including the main temple, the birth temple, and the barque shrine. The most impressive structure in the complex is the main temple, which has a massive pylon at the entrance. The Luxor Temple is open daily from 6 am to 9 pm.

4. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Taking a hot air balloon ride over Luxor is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of the city from above. The ride typically starts before sunrise, and you can see the stunning views of the city and the surrounding areas as the sun rises in the sky. Several companies offer hot air balloon rides in Luxor, and the prices vary depending on the company and the package you choose.

5. Visit the Colossi of Memnon

The Colossi of Memnon is a pair of massive statues that are located on the west bank of the Nile River. The statues depict Pharaoh Amenhotep III and were built in the 14th century BC. The statues are over 18 meters tall and are a popular tourist attraction in Luxor. The Colossi of Memnon are open daily from sunrise to sunset.

6. Take a Felucca Ride on the Nile River

Taking a felucca ride on the Nile River is a relaxing and enjoyable way to see the city from a different perspective. Feluccas are traditional Egyptian sailboats, and you can book a ride with a local captain who will take you on a tour of the city from the river. The prices for a felucca ride vary depending on the length of the ride and your bargaining skills.

7. Visit the Luxor Museum

The Luxor Museum is a small but impressive museum that houses a collection of artifacts from the ancient Egyptian period. The museum has several galleries that showcase the artifacts, including statues, pottery, jewelry, and other objects. The most impressive artifact in the museum is the mummy of Ramses I, which is on display in the Royal Mummies Hall. The Luxor Museum is open daily from 9 am to 2 pm and from 4 pm to 10 pm.

8. Take a Day Trip to Aswan

Aswan is a city located about 230 kilometers south of Luxor and is another popular tourist destination in Egypt. The city is best known for the Aswan High Dam and the Philae Temple, both of which are must-see attractions. You can book a day trip to Aswan from Luxor, and the trip usually includes transportation, a guided tour, and lunch.

Book Your Tour Now

Luxor is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture. There are plenty of things to see and do in Luxor, and this guide has provided you with a step-by-step plan to make the most of your time in the city. Whether you visit the Valley of the Kings, explore the vast Karnak Temple Complex, or take a hot air balloon ride over the city, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience in Luxor.