Enjoy Day Tour to East and West banks of luxor Highlights From Luxor

Planning a trip to Luxor? This full-day private tour covering both the East and West banks offers a balanced blend of history, architecture, and stunning scenery. We’ve reviewed this experience based on detailed feedback, and it’s clear that it provides great value for those eager to explore Egypt’s monumental treasures in one convenient day.

What we love most about this tour is its comprehensive itinerary, expert guidance from a knowledgeable Egyptologist, and the private nature of the experience—meaning your group benefits from undivided attention. Plus, the inclusion of lunch and transfers makes it quite hassle-free. On the flip side, some sites require additional entrance fees, which can add to the overall cost, so budget accordingly.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a full cultural punch in a single day—especially those who prefer guided experiences that maximize learning without the stress of organizing logistics. If you’re curious about Egypt’s rich history but don’t want to spend days trying to piece together sites and transport, this tour might be just the ticket.

Key Points

• All-inclusive value with transfers, guided commentary, and lunch
• Flexible private tour suited for small groups
• Extensive itinerary covering major Luxor landmarks
• Expert Egyptologist guides who enhance understanding
• Sites with stunning architecture and history
• Additional entrance fees are not included and should be budgeted

The Itinerary Breakdown

The Tombs of the Kings

The tour kicks off with a visit to the Valley of the Kings, a site that has fascinated travelers and archaeologists alike. This valley was used for royal burials over 500 years, from the 16th to the 11th centuries B.C. You’ll explore the tombs of pharaohs such as Ramses the Great and Tutankhamun, although the actual tombs are not included in the ticket price.

Travelers often find this part of the tour especially evocative. As one reviewer mentioned, “the coverage was extensive, and Shaaban, our guide, explained all the tombs with great enthusiasm and knowledge,” making the experience both educational and engaging. Expect a couple of hours here, walking amidst ancient chambers carved into the mountainside, with the chance to marvel at the intricate hieroglyphs—and perhaps dream of treasure chests.

Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari

Next, the tour visits the Temple of Hatshepsut, a masterpiece of ancient architecture. Built roughly 3,500 years ago, this terraced temple is unlike typical Egyptian temples with its sleek, stepped design. Located on the west bank of the Nile, it’s dedicated to Queen Hatshepsut, one of Egypt’s most notable and powerful female rulers.

We loved the way the temple’s open terraces and limestone statues of Osiris and Hatshepsut create a sense of grandeur and serenity. The guide pointed out that the statues were originally brightly colored, which adds a layer of vibrancy to the ruins. Visitors generally spend about an hour and a half here, soaking in the impressive scale and historical significance.

Colossi of Memnon

The next stop is the Colossi of Memnon, two massive statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. At almost 19 meters tall, these giants are the only remaining parts of a once-magnificent temple. Interestingly, the statues are tied to a Greek legend about their supposed “singing,” especially when cracked, which gave rise to their nickname.

One reviewer noted, “the statues are a striking sight, and it’s easy to appreciate the craftsmanship that went into creating these enormous figures.” This stop takes around 30 minutes, and you’ll get a chance to snap some memorable photos of these iconic landmarks.

Temple of Karnak

After a short drive, you’ll visit the Karnak Temple Complex, one of Egypt’s most impressive religious sites. It was built over many centuries, from the Middle Kingdom through the Roman period, dedicated primarily to the god Amun. The complex features grand colonnades, massive statues, obelisks, and sacred lakes—truly a sprawling testament to ancient Egyptian devotion.

Expect to spend about an hour and a half wandering through the site with your guide explaining its layout and significance. Reviewers have appreciated the extensive history and the stunning views of the ancient architecture, which truly evoke a sense of grandeur.

Luxor Temple

The final stop is the Luxor Temple, a monument that has witnessed over 3,400 years of history. Built during the reigns of Amenhotep III and Ramses II, it was a hub for religious festivals and celebrations. Its large pylon gateway, obelisks, and courtyard are visually captivating—especially during sunset when the site’s stonework glows in warm hues.

The tour lasts about an hour here, with your guide sharing stories about its role in Egyptian culture and mythology. Many reviewers, like Matthias from Germany, appreciated the detailed explanations and the chance to walk through these historic grounds as the city’s evening lights begin to glow.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Transportation and Comfort

All transfers are conducted in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, which is a significant plus given Luxor’s hot climate. The pickup and drop-off from your hotel or airport streamline the experience, so you won’t need to worry about navigating the city’s busy streets or arranging separate transport.

Guide and Group Size

With a private guide sharing insights with small groups of 6 to 8 people, the experience feels personalized. The guide, Shaaban, has received praise for his knowledge and responsiveness, which makes questions and curiosity easy to accommodate.

Cost and Value

At $40 per person, this tour is a very reasonable price considering the breadth of sites visited, guided commentary, transportation, and lunch. However, it’s important to note that entrance fees are not included, and visitors should budget around an additional 35 Egyptian pounds per site. Many travelers have found the upfront cost highly satisfactory, especially as it covers most major highlights in one day.

Timing and Duration

The 8-hour itinerary is well-paced, but be prepared for a lot of walking and exposure to the sun—wear comfortable shoes, hats, and sunscreen. Some visitors mentioned that the tour involves a substantial amount of energy, particularly in high temperatures, but the guide’s explanations kept the experience engaging throughout.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

One reviewer highlighted how their guide, Shaaban, tailored the schedule to their preferences, which enhanced their experience. “The drive was adjusted to our wishes, and Shaaban explained everything with great expertise,” they said, emphasizing the importance of a knowledgeable guide.

Another pointed out that the additional entrance fees—about 35 Egyptian pounds per person—are not included, but they agreed that the tour’s overall value was worth the extra expense. The stunning views and historical insights made the extra costs seem justified.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking an all-in-one Luxor experience that covers key archaeological sites with expert guidance. It’s ideal if you prefer structured visits rather than wandering independently, especially since it includes transfers and lunch. Those interested in Egyptian history and architecture will find the explanations enriching, and photographers will appreciate the opportunities for stunning shots.

It also suits visitors who want a comfortable, hassle-free day—especially when temperatures soar—and appreciate small-group intimacy for a more engaging experience.

The Sum Up

This full-day private tour of Luxor’s East and West banks offers excellent value, blending history, architecture, and scenic views in a single day. The inclusion of transfers, expert guides, and lunch makes it a convenient way to maximize your time and understanding of Egypt’s ancient wonders.

While the additional entrance fees are not included, the overall experience—guided by knowledgeable staff and in a private setting—goes a long way in delivering a memorable day out. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to skip the hassle of planning and just soak in the sights with a trusted guide.

If you’re after a well-organized, insightful, and scenic tour for around $40, this experience seems hard to beat in Luxor.

FAQ

Are transfers included in the tour?
Yes, all transfers are included and are conducted in a private, air-conditioned vehicle from your hotel or airport in Luxor.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you enough time to visit all the major sites comfortably.

Is there a guide with me during the tour?
Yes, you will have a private, English-speaking Egyptologist guide who offers detailed explanations at each site.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included. Expect to pay approximately 35 Egyptian pounds per site on top of the tour price.

What sites will I visit?
You’ll visit the Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut, Colossi of Memnon, Karnak Temple, and Luxor Temple.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a meal is included as part of the tour, simplifying your day.

What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and water are recommended, as there’s considerable walking and exposure to the sun.

Can this tour accommodate special requests?
Since this is a private tour, your guide can adjust the schedule slightly to suit your preferences, within reason.

Is this experience suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking and hot weather. It’s best for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

This detailed, balanced review should help you decide whether this Luxor tour matches your travel style and expectations. It combines historical insights, scenic beauty, and practical convenience—all for a very reasonable price.