Full-Day Tour to Luxor by Bus: Valley of the Kings from Hurghada

We haven’t personally taken this tour ourselves, but after gathering insights from travelers who have, it’s clear that this full-day trip offers a fascinating glimpse into Egypt’s ancient past. For those with a passion for history, architecture, and the grandeur of pharaohs, this tour is packed with iconic sites and stories.

What we love about this experience? First, the comprehensive itinerary combines major highlights like Karnak and the Valley of the Kings in a single day. Second, the value for money is impressive, with most entry fees, lunch, and transportation covered, making it easier to focus on exploring. Third, the knowledgeable guides seem to bring the sites to life and make the long journey more engaging.

However, one consideration is the long duration—up to 17 hours—which could be tiring, especially in the hot Egyptian sun. It’s ideal for travelers eager to maximize their sightseeing and willing to spend a full day on the road. This tour suits history buffs, first-time visitors wanting an overview of Luxor’s highlights, or those limited on time but still eager for an authentic experience.

Key Points

• All-inclusive price offers good value with entry tickets, lunch, and transport included.
• Full-day schedule means you’ll spend around 15-17 hours on the move, so pack snacks, water, and sun protection.
• Expert guides enhance understanding of Egypt’s history, making the ruins more meaningful.
• Comfortable transport in air-conditioned vehicles helps offset the long drive from Hurghada.
• Major sites covered include Karnak, Hatshepsut Temple, Colossi of Memnon, and the Valley of the Kings.
• Booking well in advance (averaging 55 days ahead) tends to secure your spot, especially in peak seasons.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Early: The Journey from Hurghada

The tour kicks off bright and early at 4:30 am, which might seem daunting but is necessary to maximize your time in Luxor. The coach ride is approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, with travelers mentioning it’s surprisingly comfortable thanks to air-conditioning and a planned toilet stop. The early start ensures you arrive at Luxor’s legendary sites before the crowds and the heat become overwhelming.

First Stop: Karnak Temple Complex

This sprawling complex is often dubbed Egypt’s most impressive temple site. We loved the way guides highlight the massive pylons, the Hypostyle Hall, and the intricate hieroglyphs. It’s a chance to walk in the footsteps of ancient worshippers and imagine the scale of ancient Egyptian religious life. Reviewers note that the admission fees are included, so you can focus on the awe-inspiring architecture without extra cost.

Second Stop: Hatshepsut Temple

Built beneath towering cliffs, this temple is a marvel of ancient engineering. Reviewers like the one who said, “the Djeser-Djeseru is a must-see,” point out how the striking terraces and colonnades make it photogenic and historically significant. The guided commentary often emphasizes Hatshepsut’s unique story as a powerful female pharaoh, offering a personal touch to the visit.

Third Stop: Colossi of Memnon

Standing guard for over 3,400 years, these massive statues are a quick but powerful photo opportunity. Travelers often mention how the statues’ size and preservation are impressive, and the short 30-minute stop allows for some good snapshots without feeling rushed.

Final Highlight: Valley of the Kings

This is the pièce de résistance. The valley holds the tombs of pharaohs like Tutankhamun and Ramses. Many reviews describe it as the most breathtaking part of the tour. Expect around two hours to explore some of the tombs, with entry fees included. As one reviewer put it, “it’s amazing to walk through these ancient tombs and imagine the treasures and stories they contain.”

The Experience: What You Can Expect

The tour is designed for convenience and depth. You’ll be picked up from your hotel—though transfers from El-Gouna, Safaga, and Soma Bay cost extra—and transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Lunch is included, with options that keep you fueled for the day. Drinks are available, and entry fees to the sites are covered, so the overall cost of the day feels justified for the amount of exploration involved.

Travelers consistently praise the expert guides, who enrich the experience with historical context, stories, and answering questions. One reviewer mentioned having a designated English-speaking guide who arrived on the coach, making the history more accessible and engaging.

Weather and Comfort Considerations

Most reviews highlight how hot it can get, with some travelers nearly experiencing heatstroke despite their precautions. It’s advisable to bring a large hat, plenty of water, sunscreen, and perhaps a portable fan if you’re sensitive to heat. Shade is limited around certain sites, so planning for sun protection is key.

Group Size and Pacing

The tour usually has a maximum of 30 travelers, which helps keep the group manageable and guides attentive. Some describe the schedule as slightly rushed, especially if you want to linger longer at each site, but this allows you to see the highlights without feeling overwhelmed.

Evaluating the Value

At $60 per person, this tour covers most of what you need for a comprehensive day in Luxor. The inclusion of transport, entry fees, and lunch makes it more budget-friendly than trying to do everything independently. While there are additional optional costs—such as transfer from certain resorts ($5-$10), a Nile boat trip, and government fees—these are optional extras, not essentials.

Travelers who want a hassle-free, guided experience without the stress of planning logistics will find this package offers a lot for the price. The long day might seem daunting, but considering the sights, guides, and included services, it’s good value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for first-time visitors who want a structured and informative day in Luxor. History lovers and those eager to tick off major sites will appreciate the convenience of a guided experience. It’s also ideal if you’re staying in Hurghada and want to explore Luxor without the hassle of organizing transportation and tickets yourself.

However, if you’re sensitive to long hours or the hot weather, consider how you’ll manage the full-day schedule. Some travelers suggest bringing snacks, extra water, and sun protection to stay comfortable.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

In the end, this full-day Luxor excursion from Hurghada offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Egypt’s ancient wonders. The combination of major archaeological sites, the convenience of included transport and entry fees, and the insights from guides make it a compelling option for travelers eager to see the highlights without unnecessary stress.

While the early start and lengthy hours require some stamina, the experience is truly rewarding. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of Egyptian history, plenty of stunning photos, and a sense of connection to a civilization that continues to fascinate.

For those who value comfort, convenience, and cultural richness all in one day, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for first-timers, history enthusiasts, or anyone with a limited schedule who still wants to get a meaningful taste of Luxor’s ancient grandeur.

FAQ

What is the start time for the tour?
The tour begins at 4:30 am, so be prepared for an early start. This allows you to arrive in Luxor early and beat the crowds and the heat.

How long is the coach journey from Hurghada?
The bus ride is approximately 3.5 to 4 hours each way, with a planned toilet stop. Travelers find it manageable thanks to air-conditioning and comfortable seating.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all site entry fees—Karnak, Hatshepsut Temple, Colossi of Memnon, and the Valley of the Kings—are included in the price.

Can I customize the sites I visit?
The itinerary is fixed, focusing on major highlights. If you want additional sites or activities, those are extra and not part of this tour.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), comfortable shoes, and perhaps a camera. The weather can be very hot and sunny.

Is food provided?
Yes, a lunch is included, with drinks also covered. Some travelers recommend bringing snacks for the long day.

What if I need transportation from nearby resorts?
Transfers from El-Gouna, Al-Ahiaa, Safaga, and Soma Bay cost around $10 per person, while those from Sahl-Hasheesh and Makadi Bay are approximately $5 each.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers say yes, but keep in mind the early start, long hours, and walking involved. It’s best for those who can handle a full day on the move.

This Luxor tour from Hurghada offers an immersive journey into Egypt’s stunning ancient sites, wrapped in comfort and guided expertise. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, it’s a day packed with unforgettable sights and stories.