Amazing Luxor hot air balloon and tour to valley of the kings.Special offer

A Closer Look at the Luxor Hot Air Balloon and Valley of the Kings Tour

Traveling to Luxor, Egypt, often means enjoying a tapestry of history, culture, and unforgettable scenery. This combo tour offers a chance to see the ancient city’s highlights from above and below the surface, making it a truly memorable experience. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a fantastic way to maximize your time and enjoy some of Luxor’s best sights.

What we love about this experience includes the spectacular hot air balloon ride over Luxor’s skyline, the insightful guided tour of the Valley of the Kings with a knowledgeable Egyptologist, and the convenience of door-to-door transfers and included breakfast.

One thing to consider is the early start—this tour kicks off before sunrise, which might be a challenge if you’re not a morning person. However, the payoff is worth it, especially for those eager to see the city from above in the golden dawn light. This adventure is perfect for travelers who appreciate history, scenic views, and a touch of adrenaline.

If you’re someone who enjoys a well-organized, authentic experience with excellent guides—and you’re open to an early start—this tour is a stellar choice. It offers great value for those eager to combine aerial views with the chance to explore some of Egypt’s most iconic archaeological sites.

Key Points

• Unmatched Views: The hot air balloon ride offers a 45-minute flight over Luxor, providing a rare vantage point of ancient temples and the Nile.
• Expert Guidance: The tour includes a private Egyptologist-guided visit to the Valley of the Kings, ensuring you get rich historical insights.
• Comprehensive Experience: From breakfast at the start to door-to-door transfers, everything is designed for maximum convenience.
• Authentic Cultural Sights: Visit Queen Hatsheput’s temple, the Colossi of Memnon, and Luxor Museum—each filled with stories that bring Egypt’s history to life.
• Good Value: At $150 per person, the tour combines multiple activities into a single, streamlined experience.
• Highly Rated: With a perfect 5-star rating from three reviews, travelers consistently found it memorable and well-organized.

The Itinerary in Detail

Early Morning Pickup and Scenic Transfer

The day begins with a prompt hotel pickup. Expect to be collected early, ahead of sunrise, to make the most of the cooler temperatures and the beautiful morning light. The journey includes a scenic transfer via an air-conditioned minibus, making the experience comfortable from start to finish. Reviews highlight that the transfers are smooth and handle all the logistics, so you can focus on the experience ahead.

Pre-Flight Breakfast on the Motorboat

Once on the Nile, you’ll hop onto a motorboat where breakfast—comprising cake and tea or coffee—is served. This might sound simple, but reviewers say it’s a charming start to the day, with one traveler noting the “breakfast at no extra cost” as a thoughtful touch. The captain will explain the steps of the balloon flight, helping to set expectations and calm any nerves before takeoff.

The Hot Air Balloon Flight

The highlight for many is the 45-minute hot air balloon flight over Luxor’s west bank. You’ll soar above some of the world’s most ancient temples, including the Valley of the Kings, Queen Hatsheput’s temple, and Luxor Museum. The view from above grants a perspective few get—an open museum city from the sky—highlighted by reviewers who describe it as “memorable” and “breathtaking.”

Guided Tour of the Valley of the Kings and Surroundings

After landing, you’ll head to the west bank for a private tour of the Valley of the Kings, accompanied by an Egyptologist guide. This personalized approach means plenty of space for questions and tailored insights. The reviewer Thierry praised guide “Juju” for her enthusiasm and ability to share her vast knowledge in an engaging manner, making the experience feel like a shared adventure rather than just sightseeing.

The tour includes visits to Queen Hatsheput’s temple and the Colossi of Memnon, both iconic sites offering a glimpse into Egypt’s ancient rulers and monumental architecture. The Valley of the Kings remains one of Egypt’s most important funerary sites, with elaborately decorated tombs that you might find fascinating.

Additional Sights and Final Stop

The guide will also take you to the Luxor Museum, which houses artifacts from the area, giving context to the sites visited. The tour concludes with a drop-off back at your hotel, ensuring a seamless day of exploration.

What Travelers Should Know

• Transportation: The combined use of motorboats and mini-buses ensures comfort and convenience, especially important given the early start.
• Timing: Expect a 6-7 hour tour, with the early morning balloon ride setting the tone for a full day.
• Group Size: This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, allowing for personalized attention.
• Cost and Value: At $150 per person, the package offers good value considering the included activities, guides, and transfers.
• Inclusions and Extras: Breakfast, bottled water, tour guides, taxes, and handling fees are all included, with tips and entrance fees being optional extras.
• Booking and Cancellation: Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, which offers flexibility in case plans change.

Authentic Experiences and Review Insights

Reviewers consistently praise the tour for the knowledgeable guides, particularly “Juju,” who made the experience engaging with her enthusiasm. One described the shared moments with family as “incredible,” emphasizing the personal touch that makes this tour stand out. Several mention the stunning views from the sky, calling it a once-in-a-lifetime experience, especially seeing the Valley of the Kings from above.

Felt safe and secure, with many noting the professional handling of logistics and the smooth transfers. The early start might be a challenge for some, but one reviewer declared, “I’d do the whole thing over in a heartbeat,” highlighting the overall satisfaction.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers, history buffs, and photographers eager to capture Luxor from above and below. If you want an authentic, well-organized, and memorable way to explore Egypt’s treasures, this tour packs a punch at a reasonable price.

It’s especially suited for those comfortable with early mornings and eager to combine scenic flights with immersive site visits. The private guide ensures a personalized experience, making it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who value flexibility and expert insights.

In short, if you’re after a unique perspective on Luxor’s ancient wonders—and want to do it comfortably and safely—this hot air balloon and Valley of the Kings tour is a top pick.

FAQ

How early do I need to wake up for this tour?
You’ll be picked up before sunrise, so expect an early start to enjoy the best views and cooler temperatures.

Is the hot air balloon ride safe?
Yes, the tour includes a fly certification, and reviews mention feeling safe and secure throughout the flight.

What’s included in the price?
The $150 fee covers hotel transfers, the motorboat breakfast, the hot air balloon flight, guide services, entrance fees to the sites, taxes, handling fees, bottled water, and a flight certificate.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the experience, allowing flexibility.

Who will be guiding me during the tour?
A knowledgeable Egyptologist guide will lead the site visits, sharing insights and answering questions.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the tour is private, so you can assess whether your children are comfortable with early mornings, flights, and long walks.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, modest clothing suitable for the weather, with closed shoes recommended for walking around archaeological sites.

How long does the entire experience last?
Approximately 6 to 7 hours, from hotel pickup in the early morning to drop-off back at your hotel.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included at no extra cost, served onboard the motorboat before the flight.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour provider offers free cancellation, so if weather conditions prevent flying, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

This Luxor hot air balloon and valley tour offers a compelling combination of adventure, history, and convenience that’s hard to beat for those looking to make the most of their visit to Egypt’s iconic city.