Full Day West Bank and Valley of the Queens in Luxor

Taking a tour of Luxor’s West Bank is like flipping through an open-air museum filled with stories of ancient Egypt’s royal past. This particular full-day experience, offered by Luxor Best Travel, promises a carefully curated journey through some of the most iconic sites, all at a very reasonable price of just $20 per person. Whether you’re fascinated by pharaohs, tomb art, or stunning ruins, this tour packs in a lot for your money — and all with the convenience of hotel pickup and private guides.

What really caught our attention from reviews and descriptions are the knowledgeable guides, the beautiful views, and the well-planned itinerary. Meanwhile, one thing to consider is that admission tickets are not included, so you’ll need to budget an extra $30 for entrance fees. This tour is best suited for travelers eager to get an authentic feel of Luxor’s ancient sites, especially if you prefer personalized attention and a flexible schedule.

Key Points

• Expert Guides Make the Difference: Personalized attention from guides like Adam and Ahmed, who share detailed insights about each site.
• Affordable Price with Great Value: At $20, plus entrance fees, you get a full day of exploration with private transportation.
• Rich Historical Sites: Visit iconic landmarks like the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, Valley of the Queens, and Colossi of Memnon.
• Flexible, Private Tour: Ideal for travelers who prefer a tailored experience rather than a crowded group.
• Comfortable Transport: Round-trip, air-conditioned vehicles with a driver make the long day more pleasant.
• Extra Costs to Consider: Entrance fees are around $30 per person, so plan accordingly.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Valley of the Kings: The Heart of the West Bank

Our journey begins at the Valley of the Kings, a site that truly embodies the grandeur of ancient Egypt’s burial practices. Situated on Luxor’s west bank, this sprawling necropolis has been the final resting place for Pharaohs like Tutankhamun and Ramses the Great. The tour lasts about three hours, during which you’ll see the tomb entrances carved into the rocky hillside. While admission tickets aren’t included, guides often highlight the significance of the artwork and hieroglyphs, which are still remarkably well-preserved.

One reviewer, who booked a private tour with guide Ahmed, expressed appreciation for the detailed explanations provided. They remarked how Ahmed “could tell me a lot of interesting things about it and made the experience much more meaningful,” especially for those who love to learn the stories behind the carvings. The site feels both awe-inspiring and intimate when you have a knowledgeable guide explaining its history.

Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari: An Architectural Marvel

Next, you’ll visit the Temple of Hatshepsut, built around 2050 BC. Perched on the cliffs, this temple is notable for its terrace-like design and strategic location amid steep rocks. Its height of 97 feet makes it a striking sight against the rugged landscape. The tour allocates around two hours here, giving you plenty of time to soak in the terraces, columns, and statues.

A reviewer mentioned the temple’s unusual architecture, describing it as “distinctive and visually stunning,” and highlighted how the guide explained Hatshepsut’s remarkable story as Egypt’s female Pharaoh. This site’s beauty lies in its harmony with the surrounding nature, which enhances the overall experience.

Valley of the Queens: Resting Place of Royal Women

After lunch or a short rest, the tour proceeds to the Valley of the Queens, where the wives of the pharaohs were buried. Known as Ta-Set-Neferu, this site is equally significant, although often less crowded than the Valley of the Kings. The visit lasts about an hour and a half, enough to appreciate the tomb architecture and carvings.

One reviewer noted that this site is “the final resting place for Pharaohs’ consorts,” emphasizing its importance in understanding the full story of ancient Egyptian burial customs. The quiet, less touristy ambiance here allows for a more reflective experience.

Colossi of Memnon: Iconic Statues and a Perfect Photo Stop

Our last stop is the Colossi of Memnon, two colossal stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. Standing guard at the entrance of his mortuary temple, these giants are a quick 30-minute visit. While they are the only remaining parts of the temple today, their presence is commanding and photogenic.

Reviewers often mention that this stop is free and offers a great chance to snap some memorable photos. It’s a quick, impactful way to end the tour on a high note, appreciating the scale of ancient Egyptian craftsmanship.

Practical Details and Why They Matter

Transportation and Comfort

The tour includes round-trip, air-conditioned transportation with a qualified driver, which is key for comfort during Luxor’s hot days and a long itinerary. The private nature of the tour means you won’t be stuck with strangers, and your guide can tailor explanations to your interests.

Guide Quality

The expert guides are a standout feature. As one reviewer put it, Adam’s knowledge and calm pace “made everything more understandable and enjoyable,” especially for travelers with mobility issues. The personalized approach ensures you’re not rushing through sites or missing the finer details.

Price and Entrance Fees

While the tour costs only $20, you should budget an extra $30 for entrance tickets. This is a reasonable addition considering the sites’ historical importance. The tour operator’s transparency about this cost helps in planning your day without surprises.

Duration and Flexibility

Total duration is approximately 7 hours, including travel and site visits. The schedule is flexible enough to allow for a relaxed pace, provided you’re prepared for a full day of sightseeing. Your guide will likely adjust the timing based on your interests and energy level.

Authentic Experiences from Other Travelers

Multiple reviewers have praised the knowledgeable guides and detailed explanations. One shared how Ahmed “told me a lot of interesting things about it and had made a very pleasant way,” highlighting the importance of a good guide. Others appreciated the stunning views and the opportunity to admire Egypt’s ancient monuments without feeling rushed.

These insights reveal that this tour isn’t just about ticking boxes — it’s about truly understanding the stories behind the monuments, with guides who take their time and answer questions thoughtfully. The personal attention and expert narration make a significant difference in appreciating Egypt’s cultural richness.

The Sum Up

This full-day Luxor tour offers outstanding value for anyone wanting to experience the West Bank’s most iconic sites with a personal touch. The combination of expert guides, luxurious transport, and the ability to customize your visit** makes it a smart choice for those keen on authentic, informative adventures.

While you’ll need to budget for entrance fees, the overall experience justifies the extra expense, providing a comprehensive look at Egypt’s ancient splendor in comfort. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate historical storytelling, enjoy quiet, reflective sites, or have mobility considerations that benefit from private guides.

In short, this tour offers a well-balanced mixture of education, convenience, and stunning scenery. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of Egypt’s royal past — and plenty of memorable photos to prove it.

FAQ

Are transportation and pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides pickup services from your hotel and round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, making your day more comfortable.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 7 hours, including travel time and site visits.

Do I need to buy entrance tickets separately?
Entrance fees are not included in the $20 price and cost around $30 per person for all the sites. Budget accordingly.

Is the tour private or group?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Based on reviews, guides like Adam are very understanding and patient, making the experience accessible for travelers with mobility concerns.

What are the main sites I will visit?
You’ll see the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple at Deir el-Bahari, Valley of the Queens, and the Colossi of Memnon — each iconic and full of history.