One Package Hot Air Balloon with Best of Luxor Full Day Tour

Travelers looking to combine breathtaking aerial views with an in-depth exploration of Egypt’s most iconic monuments will find this tour quite compelling. The hot air balloon ride promises a unique perspective of Luxor’s sprawling archaeological landscape, while the full-day guided tour covers key sites on both east and west banks—kings, queens, and temples.

What we love about this experience: the bird’s-eye vista over Luxor, the knowledgeable guides who bring history alive, and the convenience of included transportation. A potential consideration is that entrance fees are at your own expense, which can add up depending on which sites you choose to visit.

This tour suits travelers who want a blend of adventure and culture without spending days on land-only exploration. It’s particularly ideal for those pressed for time but eager to see a lot in one day—perfect for cruise travelers or those with a packed Egypt itinerary.

Key Points

• Stunning aerial views provide a fresh perspective on Luxor’s archaeological sites.
• Private guided tour ensures personalized attention, with flexible pacing.
• All transportation from hotel pickup to drop-off makes logistics smooth.
• Entry fees are paid separately, so budget accordingly.
• The tour combines a short, scenic balloon ride with full-day site visits.
• It’s best suited for travelers who value expert guides and efficient scheduling.

The Experience: A Complete Breakdown

Hot Air Balloon Ride – The Aerial Adventure

The journey begins early morning with pickup from your hotel, often around 5:30 am or 7:00 am, depending on your choice. From the reviews, it’s clear that the balloon ride is the highlight for many. It lasts about 35 to 60 minutes, offering a surreal view of Luxor’s sprawling temples, the Nile river, and the surrounding desert landscape.

Many travelers, including Kenesha_W, describe the ride as “calming and relaxing,” with the captain explaining everything in detail. The views from above are iconic—seeing the city’s ancient monuments from a bird’s-eye view makes a lasting impression. However, some reviews mention that weather can cancel the balloon, which is completely out of control but important to note. If weather conditions are poor, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Transfer to the West Bank and First Stops

After landing, the group is usually transferred via motorboat across the Nile to the West Bank, where most of Luxor’s royal tombs are located. This transition means you get a taste of Egypt’s bustling river life even before your land tour begins. Expect soft drinks and a short boat ride—experiences that add to the magic of the day.

Visiting the Colossi of Memnon

The first stop after the balloon is the Colossi of Memnon, towering statues of Amenhotep III. These are among the largest ancient statues in Egypt, and the photo opportunities are excellent. As one reviewer noted, these are “the two largest statues in Egypt,” dating back to the 14th century BC. It’s a quick stop, about 10 minutes, but gives a glimpse into Egypt’s grandeur and architectural skill.

Valley of the Kings – The Royal Necropolis

Next, you’re transported to the Valley of the Kings, a site that’s always awe-inspiring. Expect to visit 4 tombs, including those of Ramses, Horemheb, and Merenptah. The tombs are filled with vivid paintings and intricate carvings, but entrance fees are not included and can add to your costs.

From reviews, it’s apparent that the tombs are a highlight, but some travelers mention feeling rushed due to time constraints. The visit to the tomb of Ramesses IX, with its vibrant colors and detailed ceiling, is especially notable. Merenptah’s tomb, discovered by Howard Carter, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Egyptian royal burial practices.

Additional Tombs and Highlights

The tour also includes the tomb of Ramses III, known as KV11, with its colorful reliefs and secular scenes. These scenes of foreign tribute and royal ceremonies give a broader view of Egypt’s power and influence. The Tomb of King Tutankhamun is optional, with an extra fee if you wish to enter—it’s a bucket-list site for many, though some reviewers found the guide’s explanation lacking.

The Temples of Hatshepsut and Karnak

Following the tomb visits, the tour moves to the Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el Bahari. This temple is unique because it was built for Egypt’s most famous female pharaoh. Many reviewers appreciated its dramatic terraces and majestic setting—some say it’s “the most beautiful temple in Egypt,” with a visit time of about 1.5 hours, allowing ample exploration.

Next, you’ll visit the Karnak Temple complex, one of Egypt’s largest religious sites. The size, the hypostyle hall with 134 columns, and the Obelisks (including Hatshepsut’s and Thutmosis I’s) make it a true marvel. Expect around 2 hours here, with many reviewers describing it as “one of the most beautiful ancient monuments.”

A highlight is the Avenue of Sphinxes, stretching from Karnak to Luxor Temple, though only a small section is currently visible. While some stops, like the Obelisk of Thutmosis I, are brief, they add to the grandeur of the complex.

Luxor Temple – The Grand Finale

The day concludes with a visit to Luxor Temple, dedicated to the Theban triad. The statues of Ramses the Great and the intricate hieroglyphs make this a fitting end. The guided tour here lasts about 1.5 hours, and many reviews mention the “granite statues” and the “beautiful design” as highlights.

Additional Information

Transportation throughout the day is in luxurious, air-conditioned vehicles, which many travelers describe as “first class”. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, simplifying logistics. Bottled water is provided, and the flight certificate from the balloon is a nice souvenir.

Price & Value Analysis

At $89 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience for a fraction of what private or combined tours might cost. The hot air balloon ride alone is a special experience, and the full-day guided exploration adds depth and context that you might not get exploring alone. However, entrance fees are separate, so budget an extra $10-$35 depending on which tombs and sites you visit.

Many reviews, like William_G’s, mention that the tour guide, Hassan, made everything easy and was very knowledgeable, which enhances the value significantly. The combination of aerial views, expert insights, and access to key sites makes it a worthwhile option for those wanting a balanced mix of adventure and culture.

Final Thoughts

This tour is perfect if you’re after a stunning visual experience combined with a structured exploration of Luxor’s most famous sites. Expect a well-organized day with professional guides who bring Egypt’s history to life, making the experience more engaging than a self-guided trip.

The hot air balloon ride elevates the entire experience—literally—and gives a perspective of Luxor that’s hard to match. Meanwhile, the land tour covers all the essentials, from the Valley of the Kings to Karnak, ensuring you leave with a solid understanding of Egypt’s ancient world.

While entrance fees are not included, the overall value remains high, especially for travelers seeking convenience and expert guidance. Be prepared for some optional costs and variable weather that might cancel your balloon, but rest assured, the team tries to be flexible and transparent.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re short on time but want to maximize your Luxor experience, this tour combines adventure with culture perfectly. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights with knowledgeable guides.

Those who love aerial views and photo opportunities will find the hot air balloon ride unforgettable. Travelers comfortable with a full schedule, and willing to pay a bit extra for entrance fees, will find this a great way to experience Egypt’s legendary monuments efficiently and comfortably.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, transportation is included from your hotel to the tour start, and back after the day’s activities.

How long does the hot air balloon ride last?
The balloon ride lasts approximately 35 to 60 minutes, offering spectacular views of Luxor’s archaeological sites.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are paid separately by travelers at each site visited, which can add approximately $10 to $35 depending on what you opt to see.

What is the best time to do this tour?
Early morning is best for the balloon ride, usually around sunrise, but weather conditions can affect scheduling.

Can I visit King Tut’s tomb?
Yes, but it’s an extra charge of about $35, and guides cannot go inside—your ticket allows entry, but explanations are limited.

How knowledgeable are the guides?
Many reviews praise guides like Hassan and others for their deep knowledge and helpful explanations, which enrich the experience.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and a camera—especially for the aerial views.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable but consider the walking involved and the early start for ballooning.

What happens if the weather cancels the balloon ride?
You’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund, but weather cancellations are out of control.

Is this tour good value for money?
Yes, considering the combination of a hot air balloon experience, expert guidance, and site visits, it offers good value—just budget for entrance fees.

This full-day adventure in Luxor balances thrill and education, giving you a memorable peek into ancient Egypt from above and on the ground. Whether you’re a history buff, a photo enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique experience, this tour covers many bases efficiently.