LUXOR By Big Bus From Hurghada ( valley of the Kings or Valley of the Queens )

Exploring Luxor from Hurghada: A Detailed Review of the Big Bus Tour

If you’re visiting Egypt and want to experience some of the country’s most famous ancient monuments without the hassle of planning every detail, this Luxor day trip from Hurghada offers a solid option. Offered by E.T.O Travels, the tour promises a full day packed with history, culture, and scenery, all for around $75.49 per person. With a stellar 4.5-star rating from 17 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find it a worthwhile adventure—even if it’s not perfect.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the expert guide who brings the ancient sites alive, second, the convenient logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off, and third, the chance to explore multiple key sites in one day. On the flip side, some wish the schedule allowed for more time at each location, especially to soak in the grandeur of Luxor’s temples and tombs.

This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day of sightseeing without breaking the bank. It’s particularly good for travelers with limited time in Egypt who want to tick off major landmarks efficiently. If you love history, iconic scenery, and guided context, this day trip could be a highlight of your Egypt itinerary.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Entrance tickets, lunch, and guide included, making it straightforward.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Six key sites, including Karnak Temple, Valley of the Queens, and Valley of the Kings.
• Expert Guidance: A qualified Egyptologist guide enhances understanding and appreciation.
• Transport and Comfort: Air-conditioned vehicle and hotel pickup/drop-off for a smooth experience.
• Time Management: The tour is intense, with around 1.5 hours at each major site.
• Value for Money: A full day of guided sightseeing at a reasonable price.

What to Expect on the Day

This tour kicks off early, with a 4:00 am pickup from your Hurghada hotel. The early start is necessary to maximize your time in Luxor, given the 3 to 4-hour drive each way. The transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is crucial considering the desert heat and long day ahead. The group size is capped at around 35 travelers, which keeps the atmosphere lively but manageable.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Temple of Karnak

Our first stop is the monumental Karnak Temple on the eastern side of the Nile. This is not just the largest temple complex in Ancient Egypt but also one of the most impressive. Your guide will explain the significance of the massive columns, the hieroglyphic inscriptions, and the history that makes Karnak a must-see. Expect to spend about 1.5 hours here, which gives enough time to appreciate the scale but might leave little room for in-depth exploration.

Reviewer Alberto called it “so fast,” wishing for more time, which is a common sentiment. Still, at this price point, it’s a great way to see the highlights without the hassle of self-guided planning.

Stop 2: Colossi of Memnon

Next, we cross to the western side of the Nile to see the Colossi of Memnon, two massive statues that once guarded the entrance to a now-lost temple. These giants are about 18 meters tall and are perfect for quick photos and awe. As one reviewer noted, it’s “loads of beautiful places to see,” and these statues definitely qualify. You’ll have around 30 minutes here, enough to snap some pics and learn from your guide about their historical context.

Stop 3: Valley of the Queens

The Valley of the Queens is where the tombs of queens and princes are clustered, and it’s a quieter, more contemplative stop. Your guide will lead you through the tombs, explaining their significance and the stories of the women buried there, including Queen Hatshepsut. Expect 1.5 hours, which feels tight but allows a taste of the burial sites that showcase some exquisite artwork and architecture.

Stop 4: Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el Bahari

One of the tour’s highlights is visiting Queen Hatshepsut’s temple, a stunning terraced structure carved into the cliffs. This site is a favorite among travelers for its unique design and historical importance—she was one of Egypt’s most powerful female rulers. Your guide will walk you through its history, carvings, and purpose. Again, 1.5 hours are allocated here, which might leave you wanting more time for photos and reflection.

Stop 5: Valley of the Kings

Finally, the Valley of the Kings is where the most famous tombs, including that of Tutankhamun, are located. This site is a must for history buffs, offering a glimpse into Egypt’s burial practices and funerary art. While the tour doesn’t include interior visits to specific tombs, you get to walk through the vast necropolis and learn about the ancient Egyptians’ beliefs in the afterlife.

One reviewer appreciated this stop, saying, “Loads of beautiful places to see,” though they also pointed out the quick pace, which could make it challenging to explore deeply.

Additional Highlights and Practical Tips

Lunch and Factory Visit

The tour includes a buffet lunch—an open buffet with options to suit different tastes, including vegetarian choices. While some felt the meal was “not good enough,” it’s a practical inclusion for such a long day. The tour also features a visit to an Alabaster factory, giving insight into traditional crafts and local industry, which is a nice cultural addition.

Optional Nile Crossing

Travelers have the chance to board a Felucca, a traditional Egyptian sailing boat, to cross the Nile (optional). This provides a relaxing break and a chance to enjoy scenic views of Luxor from the water. However, this is not included in the basic tour price and would be an extra.

Extra Costs and Considerations

While the tour covers most major expenses, extras like hot and cold beverages, transfers from nearby resorts (such as Safaga, Soma Bay, or El Gouna), and guides in languages other than English are available at additional costs. If your hotel is outside Hurghada, be prepared for a small surcharge to be added.

Limitations and Review Insights

Some travelers found the schedule quite tight, with only 1.5 hours per major site, which leaves little room to explore at leisure. IvyDawn from the reviews specifically advised against bringing very young children, citing the fast pace and heat as challenging. Conversely, the knowledgeable guide, often praised as “amazing,” helps make the long day more manageable by providing informative commentary.

The bus organization has received mixed reviews—some found it chaotic, especially during transfer points, but others appreciated the smooth logistics and professional guides. It’s clear that patience and flexibility are essential for this kind of packed itinerary.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts eager to see Egypt’s key monuments in a single day without the hassle of booking individual tickets or transfers. It’s perfect if you’re on a tight schedule but want a comprehensive taste of Luxor’s highlights. It also suits travelers comfortable with long days and a fast-paced sightseeing style.

However, those expecting luxurious comfort or ample leisure time at each site might want to consider longer, more relaxed options or private tours. If you’re traveling with very young children or need a slower pace, this might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

This Luxor day tour from Hurghada offers a practical, value-packed way to explore some of Egypt’s most iconic ancient sites. With a knowledgeable guide, convenient pickup, and a well-rounded itinerary, it caters well to travelers eager to maximize their sightseeing in one go. While the schedule is brisk, the experience provides a solid overview of Luxor’s grandeur and history, all at a fair price.

If you’re comfortable with a full day of travel and sightseeing, this tour delivers a memorable introduction to Egypt’s ancient marvels. It’s especially suited for those short on time or looking for an organized, guided experience that takes care of all logistics.

For travelers who want to tick off major highlights, enjoy insightful commentary, and don’t mind a tight schedule, this trip is a dependable choice. Just be prepared for a long day with limited free time at each site, and remember to bring plenty of water and comfortable shoes.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
Pickup begins at 4:00 am, so be ready for an early start to make the most of the day.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is part of the package, offering a variety of options, including vegetarian choices.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the sites listed are included, so you won’t need to worry about extra tickets.

How long is the drive from Hurghada to Luxor?
The bus ride takes approximately 3 to 4 hours each way, so expect a long day on the road.

Can I customize this tour?
The itinerary is fixed, but optional activities like crossing Nile on a Felucca are available at extra cost.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally not recommended for children under 5 due to the pace, heat, and long waiting times.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a hat are essential. Also, bring a camera for all the photo opportunities.

Is hotel pickup available outside Hurghada?
Transfers from Safaga, Soma Bay, El Gouna, and Sahel Hashish are available at additional charges.

What do reviews say about the guides?
Many reviews praise the guides for their knowledge and enthusiasm, which helps make the long day engaging.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Overall, this Luxor tour from Hurghada balances value, efficiency, and experience, making it a solid choice for those eager to explore Egypt’s legendary monuments with minimal fuss but plenty of historical insight.