Luxor: West bank tour with Hot air Balloon over luxor

Planning a trip to Egypt often means contemplating the iconic sites of Luxor—the sprawling open-air museum that showcases some of the world’s most astonishing ancient monuments. This particular tour offers a compelling way to see the West Bank, combining an early morning hot air balloon flight with a detailed exploration of key archaeological sites. From the moment we learned about it, we appreciated its promise of authentic experiences, professional guides, and the chance to see Luxor from a different perspective.

We especially like that this tour starts with an early pickup—giving you the opportunity to beat the crowds—and includes a hot air balloon ride, which is arguably one of the most memorable ways to see Luxor’s majestic landscape. The inclusion of top sights like the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Hatshepsut also makes it a well-rounded historical journey. That said, an important consideration is the early start time at 4:30 am, which might be a challenge for some travelers, especially if you’re not a morning person.

This experience is best suited for history buffs and adventure lovers who want a mix of thrill and culture. It’s also perfect for travelers eager to maximize their time in Luxor without sacrificing depth or comfort. If you’re looking for a high-value, authentic tour that combines spectacular views with expert commentary, this could be just what you need.

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Key Points

Early Morning Start: Pickup at 4:30 am for a peaceful hot air balloon experience without the crowds.
Unmatched Views: Soar over Luxor’s ancient sites and get a bird’s eye view of the Nile and surrounding monuments.
Historical Depth: Visit iconic sites like the Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut, and Colossi of Memnon with a knowledgeable guide.
Comfort & Convenience: All transportation is by air-conditioned vehicle with a qualified driver, plus hotel or airport pickup/drop-off.
Authentic Experience: Guided by an Egyptologist, you’ll learn about Egypt’s rulers and their tombs, with well-preserved decoration inside.
Value for Price: At $120 per person, it offers a comprehensive and memorable day combining adventure and culture.

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The Hot Air Balloon Experience – A Sunrise Spectacle

The tour begins with an early pickup from your hotel at 4:30 am—a time that might seem brutal but is crucial for catching the sunrise flight. You’ll be transferred comfortably in a climate-controlled vehicle, which is especially appreciated given the early hour. Once at the launch site, you’ll meet your pilot and crew, and prepare for what many say is an unforgettable adventure.

Expect to spend around an hour floating over Luxor’s West Bank, witnessing the sun rise over the Nile and illuminating the ancient tombs and temples below. The view from the balloon is panoramic, offering a unique perspective of the Valley of the Kings, the mortuary temples, and the surrounding desert landscape. Several reviewers, including Saori, mentioned how “the guide was very easy to understand” and how the “comfortable car” made the morning easier, adding to the overall enjoyment.

The hot air balloon ride is not just about the scenery—it’s an experience that elevates your understanding of Egypt’s grandeur from above, making it ideal for photography and creating lifelong memories.

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Visiting the Valley of the Kings

After the flight, the tour continues with a guided visit to the Valley of the Kings, the burial site of Egypt’s most famous pharaohs. This valley, with its 64 tombs (discovered between 2008 and 2014), is best known for housing the tomb of King Tutankhamen and Ramses II. Our guide was praised for their clear explanations, helping us grasp the significance of each tomb and the intriguing hieroglyphs decorating the walls.

Walking through these tombs, you’ll appreciate the craftsmanship and effort that went into creating these underground chambers. The well-preserved wall paintings and artifacts provide a tangible link to Egypt’s past rulers, making this stop a highlight for history enthusiasts.

The Temple of Hatshepsut – A Monument to a Female Pharaoh

Next, the tour takes us to Deir el-Bahari to visit the Temple of Hatshepsut, an architectural marvel. Built during her reign, this mortuary temple is a testament to her power and influence—rare for a female ruler. The structure’s terraces and colonnades blend seamlessly with the desert surroundings, and the walls tell stories of her achievements and divine status.

Travelers who have visited note that this site is especially photogenic, with impressive views and the chance to explore the temple’s quiet, atmospheric courtyards. The guide’s commentary helps to appreciate its historical importance and design.

The Colossi of Memnon – Guardians of the Past

The tour concludes with a stop at the Colossi of Memnon, two massive stone statues that once guarded the mortuary temple of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. Dating back to around 1350 BCE, these statues are iconic symbols of Luxor’s grandeur, and their sheer size is striking. They make for great photo ops and give a sense of the scale and craftsmanship of ancient Egyptian sculpture.

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Practical Aspects of the Tour

The entire experience is priced at $120 per person, which includes pickup and drop-off, the hot air balloon ride, a guided tour with an Egyptologist, and all local taxes. For that price, you’re getting a seamless, well-organized day that combines adventure with insight—no small feat considering the sites visited and the expert guidance.

Transport is in air-conditioned vehicles driven by qualified drivers, which enhances comfort, especially early in the morning. The tour is designed to be efficient, fitting a lot into a half-day, making it perfect for those with limited time but who still want an in-depth experience.

The tour does not include entrance fees to sights, so you should budget separately for those, and tipping is not included but always appreciated for guides and drivers.

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Review Insights and Authentic Experiences

Saori’s review highlights the role of the guide, Ahmed Shawky Ali, noting how “he was very easy to understand and I was able to learn more about the history.” She also appreciated the comfort of the vehicle and the overall experience. This echoes the sentiment that having a knowledgeable guide makes a significant difference, especially when exploring tombs and temples that can be complex or packed with details.

Another subtle but important point is the early start—while it might be challenging, it’s what allows you to see Luxor from above in tranquil conditions and avoid the heat and crowds. Many travelers find that this early rise is well justified by the stunning views and the serene atmosphere.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for those who love combining adventure with history. The hot air balloon adds an unforgettable element that appeals to thrill-seekers and photographers alike. Meanwhile, the guided visits ensure that history buffs gain meaningful insights into Egypt’s past rulers and their monumental constructions.

It’s ideal for travelers with a reasonable level of mobility and those who don’t mind an early start. Because the tour is relatively short, it’s a great way to add a memorable highlight to a broader Egypt itinerary.

The Luxor West Bank tour with hot air balloon offers a fantastic mix of adventure, culture, and comfort. You get a chance to soar over the monuments at sunrise, explore the tombs of legendary pharaohs, and walk through remarkable temples—an experience that is both visually stunning and educational.

The inclusion of a seasoned Egyptologist guide elevates the experience, ensuring you understand the context of what you’re seeing. For $120, the tour provides great value, especially considering the exclusive views, expert commentary, and seamless logistics.

This tour is perfect for curious travelers who want a balanced, authentic look at Luxor’s treasures without feeling rushed. The early morning start might be a drawback for some, but those who embrace it will find it leads to a truly special day.

What time does the tour start?
Pickup is at 4:30 am, allowing you to catch the hot air balloon ride at sunrise.

Is the hot air balloon safe?
Yes, hot air balloon rides in Luxor are generally safe, operated by experienced pilots and crew. Precautions are taken to ensure safety.

What is included in the price?
The price covers pickup and drop-off, the hot air balloon ride, a guided tour by an Egyptologist, and all local taxes.

Are entrance fees to the sites included?
No, entrance fees are not included, so you should budget separately for visiting tombs and temples.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 6 years old are not recommended for this tour.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, comfortable clothing, sun protection, and any personal essentials.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about half a day, starting early and concluding after the visits.

Is there a group size limit?
While not specified, tours like this typically operate in small groups for a more personalized experience.

Do I need to pay in advance?
You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

To sum it up, this tour offers a compelling blend of adventure and discovery, perfect for those who want to see Luxor’s West Bank from a fresh perspective while enjoying expert guidance. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, adventure lover, or photographer, you’ll find plenty to love in this thoughtfully curated experience. Just be prepared for an early start, and you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable memories of Egypt’s ancient splendors.