Luxor: Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut Temple w/Nile Boat

Luxor: Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut Temple w/Nile Boat
Location: Luxor Governorate, Egypt
Country: Egypt
Rating: 5/5 (230 reviews)
Price: $90 per person
Supplier: FTS Travels

A Quick Look at the Experience

This all-day guided tour offers a comprehensive look at Luxor’s most iconic sites, from the grand temples to the tombs of pharaohs. We love the knowledgeable guides, the stunning scenery, and the well-organized itinerary, which helps make Egypt’s historic marvels accessible and enjoyable.

One thing to keep in mind is the long travel time—the journey from Hurghada to Luxor can take around 4 hours each way. This means you’ll want to be prepared for a full day on the move.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, those who want a taste of Egypt’s ancient past without the hassle of independent planning, or travelers craving a comfortable, guided experience with a personal touch.

Key Points

• Authentic insights from expert guides make history come alive.
• Comfortable transportation ensures a smooth trip from Hurghada.
• Comprehensive site visits including the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, Karnak, and the Colossi of Memnon.
• Well-organized logistics and included lunch add value and convenience.
• Small group size fosters a more personal and engaging experience.
• Optional Nile boat ride offers scenic views and a touch of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Luxor in Depth

How the Itinerary Comes Together

This tour is thoughtfully designed to maximize your time and cover Egypt’s most captivating archaeological sights. Starting bright and early, your day kicks off with pickup from your Hurghada hotel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. From there, it’s about a four-hour drive (with some variations depending on your pickup point), which can feel long but is largely offset by the anticipation of what’s ahead.

Once in Luxor, the first stop is Karnak Temple. This sprawling complex is often described as the beating heart of ancient Thebes. Walking down the Avenue of Sphinxes, you’ll be surrounded by towering columns, vivid hieroglyphs, and massive pylons. Guides like Nana and Ahmed have been praised for their clear, engaging explanations that help bring these stones to life, making the history accessible even for first-timers.

A highlight at Karnak is the opportunity to explore the hypostyle hall, with its forest of massive columns—an awe-inspiring sight that truly showcases ancient Egyptian engineering prowess. Reviewers often mention how guides share fascinating stories about the gods and kings associated with these sites, making the visit not just visual but deeply educational.

Crossing the Nile (Optional but Recommended)

Next, you’ll cross the Nile by boat (an optional part of the tour) from the East Bank to the West Bank. This short ferry ride offers scenic views of the river, a key lifeline of Egypt, and provides a moment to relax before more exploration. Many reviews mention this as a scenic, calming interlude in an otherwise busy day.

Valley of the Kings: The Pharaohs’ Final Resting Place

This is the star attraction for many visitors. The Valley of the Kings is where some of Egypt’s most famous tombs, including that of Tutankhamun, are located. Visitors typically get access to multiple tombs, and guides ensure you understand the significance of the elaborate hieroglyphs and vibrant paintings.

Reviewers like Amel pointed out that guides know the best times and spots to avoid crowds, which significantly improves the experience, especially during peak seasons. The tombs’ narrow corridors and delicate artwork make this a memorable but physically demanding visit—comfortable shoes are advised.

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The Hatshepsut Temple: A Unique Architectural Marvel

The Temple of Queen Hatshepsut is often praised for its terraced design and stunning setting against the cliffs. It offers a glimpse into the world of Egypt’s most renowned female pharaoh. Visitors love how this site combines impressive architecture with vivid artwork, often mentioning how guides share stories about Hatshepsut’s remarkable reign, helping you appreciate her significance beyond the stone carvings.

Colossi of Memnon: Guardians of an Ancient Past

Just outside the Hatshepsut Temple, the Colossi of Memnon—two towering statues—serve as a visual anchor of Egypt’s grandeur. Reviewers note that they’re a quick stop but a powerful photo opportunity, along with a chance to reflect on how these giants have stood for thousands of years.

Lunch and Comfort

A key part of the tour’s value is the included buffet lunch at a local Luxor restaurant. Many reviewers highlight that the food is tasty and a welcome break from the day’s sightseeing. It’s also an opportunity to chat with fellow travelers about the morning’s discoveries.

The Return Journey

After a full day of exploring, the trip wraps up with a comfortable ride back to Hurghada. Snacks, cold drinks, and water are provided throughout, keeping everyone refreshed under the Egyptian sun. Reviewers like Louis appreciate the personalized service and how the guides kept everyone energized and engaged.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The guides are a recurring highlight. Whether it’s Nana, Shaban, or Ahmed, many reviews praise their knowledge, friendliness, and humor. They excel at making history engaging and answering questions in a way that feels approachable. One reviewer shared that Nana “knows everything there is to know,” making the long day feel shorter with her stories and jokes.

The small group size is another plus. This setup allows for more interaction, easier navigation through crowded sites, and a more relaxed atmosphere. The personal attention makes a big difference in a place as busy and sprawling as Luxor.

The value for money is evident. For $90, you get the entire experience—entrance fees, transportation, lunch, snacks, and a guide—which many feel is fair considering the quality of guides and sites visited. While cheaper options exist, reviewers consistently note that the quality and care offered by FTS Travels outshine lower-cost alternatives.

Transportation is comfortable and reliable, with a clean, air-conditioned vehicle that takes the stress out of the long drive. This is crucial, as the journey can be taxing without proper comfort.

Authentic experiences like the Nile boat crossing and a close-up look at actual tombs and temples make this more than just a sightseeing trip — it’s a chance to connect with Egypt’s living history.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who want a capped, guided experience that covers the highlights without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. If you’re interested in learning from knowledgeable guides and enjoy storytelling, this is a perfect fit.

It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate comfort and value, as the included lunch and transportation elevate the experience beyond basic sightseeing.

However, travelers with mobility issues, back or heart problems, or pregnant women might find the long day and walking difficult. The tour also doesn’t include a pickup from nearby resorts like Makadi or Sahl Hasheesh, so you’ll need to arrange transport if you’re staying outside Hurghada.

Final Thoughts

This Luxor tour offers an impressive, well-rounded journey into Egypt’s past, brought to life by expert guides and thoughtful logistics. It balances educational value and comfort, making it ideal for anyone eager to see the grandeur of ancient Egypt without the stress of self-guided trips.

While the travel time is significant, the experience of standing in front of the towering temples and tombs is a once-in-a-lifetime feeling. The inclusion of scenic Nile crossings, a delicious buffet, and small group intimacy make this tour a compelling choice for travelers seeking a meaningful, hassle-free adventure.

If you’re after a reliable, enriching, and well-organized way to explore Luxor’s highlights, this tour ticks all those boxes—and more.

FAQ – Your Practical Questions Answered

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

Are meals provided?
A buffet lunch at a Luxor restaurant is included, offering a nice break during the long day.

Can I visit Tutankhamun’s tomb?
Yes, this can be included as an add-on or option during the tour, depending on availability.

Is the Nile boat ride included?
It’s an optional part of the tour, providing scenic views of the Nile.

How long does the trip take?
Travel from Hurghada to Luxor and back takes approximately 8 hours, with most of the day spent exploring.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hat, passport or ID, and cash for extras.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back, mobility, or heart issues.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak English, German, and Arabic. Other languages can be requested as an add-on.

What if I want to cancel?
Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the small group size makes it easy to connect and feel part of a friendly atmosphere.

To sum it up, this Luxor tour provides an engaging, comfortable, and all-encompassing way to experience Egypt’s legendary monuments. With guided insights, scenic moments, and thoughtful logistics, it’s a strong choice for travelers who want quality, authenticity, and a memorable adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: