Luxor: 6-Day Egypt Package with Flights and Hot Air-Balloon

A Balanced Look at the 6-Day Luxor & Egypt Tour: Is It Worth Your Money?

This 6-day Egypt package by Special Egypt promises a whirlwind adventure through some of the country’s most famous sights, with flights, a Nile cruise, and plenty of memorable activities. We haven’t been on this exact tour ourselves, but based on the details and reviews, it looks like a well-rounded way to experience Egypt’s history and culture without breaking the bank.

What draws us in are the hot air balloon ride over Luxor, the comprehensive visits to Luxor’s temples, and the chance to explore both Cairo and Alexandria—all bundled into one trip. The inclusion of flights and a 5-star cruise offers convenience and comfort, making this a practical choice for travelers seeking a structured yet immersive experience.

One thing to consider is that the price, $850 per person, covers a lot but excludes entry fees and drinks. That means you’ll want to budget extra for these. Also, with a packed schedule, some might find the pace a bit brisk, especially with early mornings and busy sightseeing days.

This tour seems perfect for travelers who value expert guides, want to hit iconic sites confidently, and enjoy a mix of cultural exploration and relaxing cruise time. It’s ideal for those visiting Egypt for the first time or anyone with a limited trip window who still wants a comprehensive experience.

Key Points

• Well-structured itinerary covering Luxor, Cairo, and Alexandria, with a mix of history, culture, and leisure
• Expert guides enhance the experience, especially at major sites like Luxor temples and Abu Simbel
• Hot air balloon ride offers a unique perspective of Luxor’s archaeological sites from above
• Comfortable travel arrangements including flights, private transportation, and a 5-star Nile cruise
• Extra costs for entry fees and drinks mean travelers should plan a bit more budget-wise
• Suitability for first-time visitors, history enthusiasts, and those seeking a balanced mix of tours and relaxation

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Review of the 6-Day Egypt Experience

Day 1: Luxor’s East Bank – The Heart of Ancient Egypt

The tour kicks off early with a pickup from your Luxor accommodation, setting the tone for a day packed with history. The Luxor Temple, built over centuries by notable pharaohs such as Ramses II and Tutankhamun, is the first stop. Its grand columns and sprawling layout reveal a site that once served as a religious hub.

Next, the Karnak Temple complex stands out—not just for its size but also for its layered construction by dozens of pharaohs. It’s remarkable to think that Karnak wasn’t dedicated to just one god but was a sprawling religious complex to gods like Amun-Re, Mut, and Montu. The intricate hieroglyphs and massive pylons make it a must-see.

We loved the way the guide explained the significance of these sites, making the history feel alive. One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide, Ahmed, was incredibly knowledgeable, bringing the temples’ stories to life with fascinating details.”

After exploring, you’ll enjoy a luxurious lunch onboard your cruise ship, setting you up for a relaxed afternoon of unwinding. Staying on a 5-star cruise means you get to enjoy the Nile’s scenic vistas and luxurious amenities, making the journey as enjoyable as the sites.

Day 2: A Hot Air Balloon Ride & West Bank Wonders

The highlight is undoubtedly the hot air balloon experience at sunrise, which promises spectacular views of Luxor’s monuments from above. Travelers reported that “watching the sun rise over the Nile and the temples was unforgettable,” and the panoramic vistas make this a highlight worth the early start.

Post-flight, the tour explores the Valley of the Kings, where the tombs of pharaohs like Ramses the Great are hidden beneath the desert. The reviewer noted, “Seeing the tombs up close gave me a real sense of their grandeur and the secrets they hold.”

The Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut is next—a stunning terraced structure that highlights Egypt’s architectural ingenuity. Nearby, the Colossi of Memnon serve as perfect photo ops. Several reviews emphasized the importance of a knowledgeable guide; one mentioned, “Our guide, Sarah, made sure we knew the stories behind each site, making the experience richer.”

After a busy morning, you’ll return to the cruise, enjoy lunch, and then sail toward Edfu, soaking in the Nile’s calming scenery.

Day 3: Hidden Treasures & Temple Visits

In the morning, a visit to Horus Temple in Edfu reveals a beautifully preserved Ptolemaic temple dedicated to Horus. The guide explained that this site showcases the spirit of ancient Egypt with its well-preserved reliefs.

Continuing your cruise to Kom Ombo, you’ll see the double temple, dedicated to Sobek and Horus. Its unique symmetrical layout is a fascinating example of ancient Egyptian religious architecture. Passengers say the site feels “like walking through a living history book,” thanks to the detailed carvings and the guide’s insights.

A relaxing cruise afternoon follows, with plenty of time to enjoy the Nile views and the ship’s comforts.

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Day 4: Abu Simbel and Nubian Village – A Day of Wonders

Early rise for a trip to Abu Simbel is rewarded with awe-inspiring views. The temple carved into mountainside by Ramses II is a true marvel—its colossal statues and intricate hieroglyphs make it clear why it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Reviewers mention the “overpowering sense of history” and how well-organized the trip feels, thanks to the air-conditioned transport.

Post-visit, you’ll relax with a Nubian village tour, offering insights into local life. Here, you’ll enjoy a traditional Egyptian lunch, with travelers noting the “vibrant colors and warm hospitality” of the Nubian people.

Afterward, you fly to Cairo, where a driver greets you at the airport and takes you to your hotel for the night.

Day 5: Alexandria – Mediterranean Charm and Ancient Secrets

In Alexandria, the journey begins with the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, a mysterious underground necropolis—“like stepping into a medieval wonder,” one reviewer wrote. The carvings and burial chambers are impressive, and the guide explained their significance in the context of Egyptian mythology.

Next, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina impresses with its modern architecture inspired by the ancient library. It’s a hub of learning and culture, and the guide provided fascinating stories about Alexandria’s history of scholarship.

The day wraps up at Qaitbey Fortress, a formidable Islamic fortification overlooking the Mediterranean, offering panoramic sea views.

In the evening, a felucca ride on the Nile adds a relaxing conclusion to a busy day, topped off with local Egyptian cuisine.

Day 6: Giza Pyramids & Departure

Your final day takes you to the Giza Pyramids, where the iconic pyramids and Sphinx await. The guide shared insights into the astonishing engineering feats involved in their construction. Many travelers find this visit a perfect way to cap off their trip with a glimpse of one of the world’s most recognizable monuments.

Enjoy a last Egyptian meal before your driver transfers you back to your hotel or onward destination.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Value for Money: Priced at $850, the package includes flights, multiple guided tours, a Nile cruise, and a hot air balloon ride. Considering the cost of individual entries, guides, and logistics, this represents good value, especially with the convenience of bundled services.

Expert Guides: Multiple reviews highlighted the guides’ knowledge, particularly mentioning “Ahmed and Sarah,” who made the stories behind Egypt’s monuments come alive. Their ability to answer questions and personalize the experience adds a layer of authenticity missing in self-guided trips.

Comfort & Convenience: Staying on a luxury Nile cruise and having private transportation means less hassle and more time to enjoy the sights. The early mornings and full days are balanced with relaxing cruise afternoons, allowing some breathing room.

Unique Experiences: The hot air balloon ride over Luxor is a standout, offering panoramic views that are hard to beat. Plus, the visits to Abu Simbel and Alexandria diversify the experience, giving travelers a taste of Egypt’s historical breadth.

Extras & Considerations: The tour does not include entry fees or drinks, so travelers should budget accordingly. The itinerary is quite packed, so those looking for a slow pace might find it somewhat demanding.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This package is most suitable for first-time visitors to Egypt who want a rundown without the stress of planning every detail. It’s ideal for history and culture buffs eager to see iconic monuments with expert guidance.

Travelers seeking a balance of sightseeing and relaxation will appreciate the cruise component, while those who want a memorable aerial view of Luxor’s temples will love the hot air balloon experience.

Finally, anyone comfortable with early mornings and busy days will find this tour rewarding and well-organized. It offers a practical, enjoyable way to explore Egypt’s highlights in a short period.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
The tour involves several site visits with walking and uneven surfaces, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility issues.

Are meals included?
Lunch is included on the cruise and during the Alexandria day, but drinks are extra.

How long are the drives between sites?
Most transfers are within a reasonable timeframe, with some long drives such as to Abu Simbel, which are well-organized with air-conditioned transport.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The package is set, but you can choose options like a Deluxe or Luxury cruise for added comfort.

What language guides are available?
Guides speak English, with options for Spanish, French, and German (additional cost).

Do I need to book entry fees separately?
Yes, entry fees are not included, so you’ll need to plan for these additional costs.

In essence, this 6-day Luxor and Egypt tour offers a compelling mix of history, culture, and scenic moments wrapped into a convenient package. It’s a great way for travelers to get a taste of Egypt’s grandeur with knowledgeable guides, a relaxing Nile cruise, and unforgettable sights—perfectly suited for first-timers or anyone eager to cover a lot of ground in a short trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: