Luxor: Shared Full-Day Tour to Luxor West and East Banks

Traveling to Luxor? Then you’re probably dreaming of standing amid ancient ruins, imagining what life was like thousands of years ago. This shared full-day tour promises to bring these dreams to life, guiding you through the city’s most iconic sites with a knowledgeable Egyptologist. Whether you’re a history buff or simply craving a glimpse into Egypt’s grandeur, this tour offers a comprehensive peek into Luxor’s spiritual and royal history.

What we love about this experience is its well-balanced itinerary, the expertise of guides like Salma and Majed, and the chance to see major sites in just one day. Plus, the included lunch provides a welcome break and a taste of local cuisine. The only thing to keep in mind is that entrance fees are not included in the tour price, which might surprise some travelers. This tour is ideal for those who want to maximize their time and see Luxor’s top attractions without the hassle of planning each detail.

Contents show

Key Points

Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers both the West and East Banks of Luxor, including major monuments.
Expert Guides: Guides like Salma, Majed, and Mina bring the sites alive with engaging stories.
Value for Money: For $65, you get transportation, a guide, lunch, and fascinating insights.
Flexible & Organized: Well-paced, with enough free time to explore or take photos.
Extra Costs: Entrance fees are not included, so budget for additional ticket expenses.
Authentic Experience: Visits include iconic temples, tombs, and statues, often described as breathtaking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Look at the Luxor Full-Day Tour

If you’re aiming for a thorough look at Luxor’s highlights, this tour covers all the key sites in a single day. It’s a busy schedule but packed with value, especially if you’re limited on time.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Luxor

Starting with Hotel Pickup and Transportation

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup on the East Bank of Luxor, which is convenient and stress-free. The group size typically keeps things manageable — enough to feel social but not overwhelming. The transportation is comfortable, usually a van that allows for a little sightseeing window during the drive. Some reviews mention the van being quite cramped, so if space is a concern, it’s worth considering.

Exploring the West Bank: Valley of the Kings & Hatshepsut Temple

The highlight for most travelers is the Valley of the Kings, where ancient pharaohs were buried in elaborately decorated tombs. While entry fees are an extra cost, the experience of walking through these burial chambers—some decorated with vivid hieroglyphs—is unforgettable. Reviewers mention that guides like Salma or Majed explain the significance of each tomb, which really helps bring the history into focus.

Right across from the valley, you’ll find the Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut. This architectural marvel stands out with its terraces rising into the cliffs and offers fantastic photo opportunities. Visitors often comment on the grandeur and how the guide’s explanations make the site even more compelling. One reviewer noted, “Salma detailed the story of Hatshepsut, making the visit very engaging,” which adds depth to the experience.

Colossi of Memnon and the Local Handicraft Stop

Next, the Colossi of Memnon—two massive statues that once guarded a now-ruined temple—are a quick but impressive stop, perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the scale. Some reviews commend the guides for sharing interesting side stories here or at nearby craft shops, which can be a good chance for souvenir shopping if you’re interested.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch Break with a View

A well-deserved break follows with lunch at a local restaurant. The buffet-style meal is generally well-received, with many reviewers praising the delicious food and the stunning view of the Nile from the restaurant’s rooftop. A reviewer mentioned, “Lunch was quite good, and the view made it special,” which shows how a good meal can be a memorable part of the day.

There's plenty more to explore in Luxor

The East Bank: Karnak and Luxor Temples

Post-lunch, you’ll head to Karnak Temple, possibly the most impressive of all, dedicated to the god Amun. Expect large columns, obelisks, and sprawling courtyards that showcase ancient Egyptian religious life. Guides tend to describe the significance of each element, adding layers of understanding to what you see.

Next, the Luxor Temple —built by Amenhotep III and later completed by Ramses II—serves as a perfect finale. The temple’s impressive gateways and statues, illuminated at night, are often highlighted as a photographer’s dream. Reviewers note that guides provide a vivid narrative, making the site come alive.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides: Many reviews emphasize the guides’ expertise, mentioning names like Salma, Nelly, Majed Hassan, and Mina as making the experience both educational and fun. Their ability to explain complex history in an engaging way is often cited as the tour’s highlight.

Authentic Historical Context: The stories shared, from the construction of temples to the tales of pharaohs and queens, help visitors connect emotionally with the sites. Despite the busy schedule, guides often give enough context to leave a lasting impression.

Good Value for the Price: At $65 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all entrance fees (if optional are selected), lunch, and expert guiding. While entrance fees are extra, many reviewers agree the overall value exceeds the cost, especially considering the depth of knowledge and convenience.

Stunning Views & Photo Opportunities: Sites like Karnak and the Valley of the Kings offer incredible visuals, making this tour perfect for snapping memorable photos. The lunch spot with Nile views is a bonus, providing a relaxing break amid the historical sightseeing.

Practical Tips and Considerations

While most travelers find this tour extremely worthwhile, there are a few points to keep in mind:

Entrance fees are not included in the tour price, so budget accordingly. Some tombs and sites have separate charges, and guides can advise on which tombs are worth the extra fee.
The duration is long — expect a full day with early starts and plenty of walking. Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and water.
Group size can vary, but reviews suggest it’s manageable, with guides like Nelly and Heba making everyone feel included.
Language options include English, French, German, and Spanish, with guides typically speaking fluent English. Additional languages can be booked as add-ons.
Flexibility: Some reviews mention that guides allow free time for photos or to explore on your own, which adds a personalized touch.
Timing: The tour starts early, which is perfect for beating the heat and the crowds, especially in summer months.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of Luxor’s major sites without the hassle of organizing multiple tickets or transportation. It’s ideal for those with limited time but a deep interest in history and architecture. The tour’s mix of guided storytelling, free exploration, and scenic stops makes it perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups.

If you’re after a stress-free, informative, and well-organized day that balances sightseeing with local flavor, this tour ticks those boxes. However, if you’re looking for a more private or in-depth archaeological exploration, a private guide or specialized tour might be better.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the basic tour price does not include entrance fees, so you’ll need to budget for extra charges at the sites you visit.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, starting early in the morning and typically wrapping up in the late afternoon, giving you plenty of time to see Luxor’s highlights.

Is food provided?
Yes, the tour includes a buffet lunch at a local restaurant, which many guests find satisfying and a good chance to relax.

Can I choose a guide in another language?
Guides are available in English, French, German, and Spanish, with the possibility to book additional language options as an add-on.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and loose clothing are recommended, especially since the sites involve outdoor exploration.

Are photographs allowed inside the tombs?
This depends on individual tombs, but generally, photography policies vary. It’s best to ask the guide about specific tombs if photos are important to you.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
While the sites are mostly accessible, some areas involve walking or uneven terrain, so consider this if mobility is a concern.

What is the group size?
While not explicitly specified, reviews suggest the tour groups are manageable, usually small enough for personal attention from the guides.

How can I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot through trusted providers like GetYourGuide, with options to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for flexibility.

This Luxor full-day tour offers a thorough, engaging, and well-organized way to experience Egypt’s iconic monuments. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll connect the dots of Egypt’s ancient stories, walk among statues and tombs that defy time, and enjoy scenic breaks with views of the Nile. It’s a fantastic option for travelers eager to see the highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

For those seeking a balance of history, comfort, and value, this trip makes exploring Luxor’s top sights straightforward and memorable. Whether you’re a history lover or a casual visitor, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Egypt’s cultural grandeur—and plenty of photos to share.

Remember, booking in advance ensures you secure your spot and allows for a flexible cancellation policy should your plans change.