amazing 2 nights tours:luxor,Aswan,abu simbel and hot air balloon from hurghada

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Night Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel & Hot Air Balloon Tour from Hurghada

Travelers seeking a compact yet comprehensive adventure across Egypt’s most iconic sites will find this 3-day tour an excellent choice. It promises a whirlwind glimpse into the ancient wonders of Luxor and Aswan, all wrapped into one well-organized package. With door-to-door transfers, expert guides, and a balance of culture and stunning scenery, this experience offers solid value — especially for those short on time but eager to see Egypt’s highlights.

What makes this tour stand out is its lively itinerary that manages to pack in major landmarks like the Valley of the Kings and Abu Simbel while adding memorable touches like a hot air balloon ride. The convenience of hotel pickups and private transport eliminates stress, and the knowledgeable guides help bring the sites to life with detailed narratives. The one possible consideration? The tour’s intensity might not suit travelers who prefer a more leisurely, unstructured pace.

If you’re the type of traveler who loves history, stunning views, and efficient planning, this trip could be perfect. It’s especially ideal for those visiting Hurghada and wanting a comprehensive taste of Egypt’s ancient culture without staying multiple nights in Luxor or Aswan.

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Door-to-door transfers, hotel stays, and guided tours simplify the experience.
• Authentic Encounters: Expert Egyptology guides ensure you get insightful stories behind each site.
• Unique Experiences: Hot air balloon ride offers a memorable perspective on Luxor’s landscape.
• Historic Highlights: Visits to Karnak, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings, Abu Simbel, and Philae Temple.
• Cultural Touches: Nile felucca ride and river boat trips add local flavor.
• Value for Money: For around $360, you get a lot — site visits, transport, guides, and even a Nile view hotel.

Exploring the Detailed Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Day 1: Journey to Luxor & Majestic Temples

Your adventure kicks off early, with a pickup around 6:30 am (depending on your hotel location). The comfortable A/C bus ride from Hurghada takes around five hours, giving you ample time to settle into the Egyptian landscape. Once you arrive in Luxor, the land of pharaohs hits you with an immediate sense of awe.

The first stop is Karnak Temple, a sprawling complex covering 247 acres. It’s easy to see why it’s considered Egypt’s most impressive temple site. As our reviewer notes, this site embodies the achievement of generations of builders. Expect towering pylons, massive statues, and a sense of scale that’s hard to match. Your guide will likely share stories about the temple’s construction and its significance during ancient times.

Next, you’ll visit Luxor Temple — a center for religious festivals in ancient Egypt, beautifully lit in the evenings, but equally captivating during the day. The guide’s detailed narratives help you appreciate the intricate hieroglyphs and the history woven into the stone.

After checking into your Nile-view hotel, you’re free to relax or explore a bit on your own, sensing that you’re in the heart of Egypt’s history.

Day 2: Soaring Over Luxor & Exploring the West Bank

This day is packed with highlights, starting early with the hot air balloon ride. Our reviewer, Erik, mentions that the experience lasts about 45 minutes — a perfect duration for stunning panoramic views without fatigue. You’ll ascend over the West Bank, where the grandeur of the ancient tombs and temples is laid out beneath you. The view of the Nile, the vast desert, and the archaeological sites makes it a truly worthwhile experience. Expect soft drinks before takeoff, and a smooth, professional operation.

Post-flight, your journey continues on the West Bank with visits to the Valley of the Kings, home to tombs of Egypt’s most famous rulers, including Ramses II and Tutankhamun’s family. Our reviewer highlights that the tombs are the final resting places of Egypt’s rulers from the 18th to the 20th dynasty, and they’re decorated with detailed murals depicting battles and gods. Be prepared for a fair amount of walking and stair climbing.

Then, you’ll visit the Queen Hatsheput Temple and the Colossi of Memnon, each offering unique insights into Egypt’s history and architecture. The guide’s expertise helps you decode hieroglyphs and understand the significance of each site.

Day 3: Abu Simbel & Aswan’s Temples

Early morning transport from Luxor to Aswan begins around 5 am, reflecting the long drive to Abu Simbel. Arriving around 8 am, you’ll explore Ramses II’s temples, which were relocated to avoid inundation from the Nile’s rising waters in the 1960s. The sheer size of the statues and the intricate bas-reliefs depicting Ramses’ victory at Qadesh make this a standout site.

You’ll also visit the small temple of Queen Nefertari, Ramses’ favorite wife, carved into the rock face. Our review mentions how impressive the rock sanctuary and its bas-reliefs are, depicting gods and pharaohs in vivid detail.

Back in Aswan, a Nile motor boat takes you to the Philae Temple, built to honor the goddess Isis. The temple’s stunning setting on Agilkia Island, combined with its classical architecture, makes it an ideal end to your trip.

Practical Details and Why They Matter

Transportation and Comfort

Throughout this tour, you’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus with licensed drivers, which is especially important given the long drives between sites. The inclusion of first-class train tickets from Luxor to Aswan allows you to experience Egypt’s rail system comfortably and adds a touch of local flavor.

Accommodation and Amenities

Staying one night at the Lotus Hotel in Luxor, with its Nile view, offers a relaxing base after your busy days. The second night in Aswan provides a different vibe, with a 3-star hotel that includes breakfast. According to a reviewer, the hotels are comfortable and add to the overall value.

Guided Experience and Flexibility

Your Egyptology guide is a key part of the experience, providing context and stories that elevate the visit beyond just sightseeing. The tour is private, meaning your group will have personalized attention. The tour’s timing is well-organized, starting early to maximize site visits and avoid midday heat.

Cost Breakdown and Value

At $360 per person, including all transfers, guides, hotel stays, and entry to sites (excluding entrance fees of roughly $60), the tour offers good value for a packed, well-organized adventure. The inclusion of a Nile felucca ride and a hot air balloon trip adds memorable touches that many travelers find worth the extra expense.

Authentic Experiences and Tips

Our review of Erik’s experience mentions that he appreciated the “touch of great culture” and the “stunning views” during the balloon ride. Guides are praised for their knowledge, which makes even the overwhelming amount of sites digestible and engaging.

Travelers should be prepared for early mornings, especially on Day 3, but the effort pays off with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. Also, entrance fees are not included, so budget an extra $60 for access to all sites. Tipping is optional but customary for guides and drivers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for history buffs eager for a comprehensive glimpse into Egypt’s ancient sites without the hassle of traveling independently. It suits travelers who value expert guides and well-organized logistics, making it perfect for those with limited time in Egypt. It’s also great for people who want a blend of culture, stunning visuals, and memorable experiences like hot air ballooning.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace or are traveling with very young children, this itinerary might feel a bit intense. However, for energetic explorers who love history, scenery, and efficient planning, this package hits the right notes.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day tour from Hurghada offers a thorough, well-rounded experience of Egypt’s highlights, from Luxor’s temples and tombs to Abu Simbel’s colossal statues and Aswan’s beautiful temples. Its included transportation, expert guides, and hotel stays make it a convenient choice for travelers wanting a hassle-free, engaging introduction to Egypt’s treasure trove of ancient wonders.

The hot air balloon ride alone is worth the price for its breathtaking views and the sense of floating above history. With authentic, informative guides and reliable logistics, this tour is a fantastic way to maximize your limited time in Egypt.

For those who crave cultural depth, scenic beauty, and a touch of adventure, this trip truly delivers. Just remember to budget for entrance fees and prepare for early starts — and you’ll have a memorable journey through Egypt’s most iconic sites.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour covers door-to-door transfers, guided visits to all listed sites, hotel accommodations (one night in Luxor with Nile view, one in Aswan), transportation (including first-class train tickets from Luxor to Aswan), a hot air balloon ride, Nile felucca ride, and all taxes and charges.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included. Expect to pay around $60 USD per person for entry to the sites, which covers major temples and tombs.

Is hotel stay provided?
Yes, you stay one night at the Lotus Hotel in Luxor with Nile views and one night in a 3-star hotel in Aswan, both with breakfast.

How long is the hot air balloon ride?
The balloon ride lasts approximately 45 minutes, offering panoramic views of Luxor’s landscape and monuments.

What transportation will I be using?
You’ll travel mainly in an air-conditioned bus with licensed drivers, with a first-class train ride from Luxor to Aswan, plus boat trips on the Nile.

Can I customize or extend the tour?
This is a private tour for your group, so you can discuss possible customizations with the tour provider, but the standard itinerary is fixed.

What is the best time to take this tour?
While not specified, early mornings are crucial, especially for balloon rides and site visits, so consider the cooler months for more comfortable weather.

Is there a recommended fitness level?
Yes, expect some walking, stair climbing, and early starts. Travelers should be comfortable with moderate physical activity.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be done through the provider, Special trips, with contact details provided on their website or via the Viator link.

In summary, this tour offers a smart, value-packed way to experience Egypt’s most famous sights. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply eager to witness the grandeur of ancient Egypt, it’s a journey that packs plenty of highlights into just three days — with plenty of memorable moments along the way.