Full Day Tour of luxor East and West with hot air balloon over luxor

If you’re dreaming of exploring Egypt’s legendary Luxor, this full-day tour promises a comprehensive glimpse into its ancient marvels—complete with a breathtaking hot air balloon ride. Packed with history, culture, and stunning vistas, it’s a favorite among travelers eager to see the city’s most famous sites with ease and expert guidance.

What we love about this experience is its well-balanced itinerary, the knowledgeable guides who bring history alive, and the chance to see Luxor from above in a hot air balloon—a truly memorable way to start the day. It’s also great value considering the all-including price of $165, which covers transport, meals, and the balloon ride.

One potential consideration is that the tour duration is quite packed, leaving little room for extended exploration at each site. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, this might feel a bit rushed, especially given the number of sites visited.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a full immersion into Luxor’s highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple transport links or guides. It suits history buffs, first-time visitors, and those eager for an unforgettable aerial perspective of the ancient city.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience covering East and West Banks, with hotel transfers and a hot air balloon ride.
• Expert Egyptologist guide enhances understanding with engaging storytelling.
• Visit key sites like the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, Karnak, and Luxor Temple.
• Excellent value for a full-day tour with multiple highlights.
• Moderate pace; expect a busy schedule with minimal downtime.
• Ideal for those who prefer guided tours and want the convenience of a pre-planned itinerary.

A Deep Dive into the Luxor Experience

The Hot Air Balloon: A Magical Start

The tour kicks off early with a hot air balloon ride over Luxor—an experience many travelers describe as unforgettable. Expect to be picked up from your hotel and taken to the launch site, where you’ll ascend gently over the Nile and the sprawling ruins. The views are often described as spectacular, offering a bird’s-eye perspective of the temples, river, and desert landscape. Reviewers consistently mention how this visual treat is worth the early wake-up, with one noting it was “a brilliant way to start the day,” and others describing it as “funny, engaging, and a day to remember.”

Morning: West Bank Wonders

After the balloon ride, your Egyptologist guide will meet you to start exploring the West Bank of Luxor, known historically as the City of the Dead. This area is a treasure trove of tombs, temples, and ancient structures. Your first stop will likely be the Valley of the Kings, where you’ll enter three tombs—an opportunity to see the intricacies of ancient burial chambers and the vibrant wall paintings. Reviewers rave about guides like Ayman, who make history engaging and ensure visitors understand the significance of these tombs.

Next, you’ll visit the Hatshepsut Temple, a striking terraced structure built in honor of Egypt’s most famous female pharaoh. Reviewers frequently mention the vast terraces and the story behind Hatshepsut’s unique reign, making it more than just a photo stop. The Colossi of Memnon follow, massive stone statues that have stood in the landscape for millennia and continue to impress visitors with their scale and history.

A rest and delicious lunch at a 4-star restaurant give you a chance to refuel. The included meal is praised for being in a comfortable setting, offering a relaxing break amidst sightseeing. One review called it “excellent,” attributing the quality of the food and the peaceful atmosphere as a highlight before the afternoon exploration.

Afternoon: East Bank’s Iconic Temples

Post-lunch, the tour continues to the temple complex at Karnak, one of Egypt’s most impressive and sprawling religious sites. Expect to walk through its massive columns, pylons, and sacred lakes, with your guide explaining the significance of each feature. Reviewers mention how guides like Ayman bring the site’s history to life—highlighting the stories behind the deity Amun Ra and the temple’s construction.

Finally, the Luxor Temple rounds out your day of sightseeing. It’s a beautiful, illuminated site perfect for photos, and your guide will share tales of its ceremonial significance in ancient times.

Practical Details and Comfort

The entire tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, with round-trip air-conditioned transfers ensuring comfort and convenience. The group is typically small, and the tour is private, which allows for questions and personalized attention. The tour fee of $165 includes admission tickets, tips, mineral water, and the hot air balloon experience—offering impressive value considering the breadth of sites covered.

Authentic Experiences and Insights from Travelers

Multiple reviewers emphasize the knowledge and engaging style of guides like Ayman. One shared, “He has vast knowledge and presented everything engagingly but also gave us space to explore on our own,” highlighting a flexible, friendly approach. Others appreciated the personalized experience, feeling well looked after and informed throughout.

The hot air balloon ride consistently emerges as the standout feature, with travelers describing it as “spectacular,” “funny,” and “a highlight of their trip.” The bird’s-eye view provides a perspective you simply can’t get from the ground, making it a worthwhile addition for those who love unique experiences.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

The tour is priced at $165 per person, offering great value given the inclusions. If your hotel is on the West Bank, an additional $10 fee applies to cover extra transportation—something to keep in mind when budgeting.

Transportation is by air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during the longer drives between sites. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with confirmation received at booking and the ability to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours beforehand.

Reviewers mention that guides are knowledgeable, and the tour is near public transportation, making it accessible. Since the tour is private, it provides the flexibility to ask questions or request adjustments—perfect for personalized experiences.

Why Choose This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for history enthusiasts, first-time visitors to Luxor, and those who want to maximize their time in Egypt without the hassle of organizing multiple visits. The combination of an aerial perspective and in-depth site visits offers a comprehensive snapshot of Luxor’s grandeur.

If you’re after an authentic, guided journey with expert insights, this tour hits the mark. The inclusion of the hot air balloon adds a magical touch that many find worth the early start and busy schedule.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love It?

This full-day tour is perfect for travelers who value guided expertise and want to see Luxor’s highlights in one day. The expert guides like Ayman make history accessible, and the stunning views from the balloon create memories that last.

While the schedule is quite full, it offers incredible value for those eager to experience Egypt’s iconic monuments without the stress of planning each detail. Families, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike will find this tour rewarding.

If you’re looking for a balanced combination of culture, comfort, and adventure, this tour is an excellent choice. Just pace yourself, take lots of photos, and enjoy the journey through one of the world’s most impressive open-air museums.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel, making the start of your day seamless and stress-free.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, covering both the West and East Banks of Luxor, including lunch and the balloon ride.

What sites are visited during the tour?
You’ll visit the Valley of the Kings (with entry into 3 tombs), Hatshepsut Temple, Colossi of Memnon, Karnak Temple complex, and Luxor Temple.

Is the hot air balloon ride included in the price?
Yes, the balloon ride is included and is considered a major highlight of the experience.

Are there any additional costs?
You might be charged an extra $10 if your hotel is on the West Bank to cover transportation. Tips and personal expenses are not included.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is private, which allows for some flexibility. However, be prepared for a full, busy day.

This detailed, balanced review should help you decide whether this Luxor tour matches your travel style. From iconic temples to an unforgettable balloon flight, it offers a full immersion into Egypt’s most famed archaeological sites—delivered comfortably and expertly.