Tour of best the tombs and temples of the West Bank in Luxor

Explore the Wonders of Luxor’s West Bank with Confidence

If you’re planning a trip to Luxor, a tour of the West Bank offers some of the most iconic sights of ancient Egypt. This particular 5.5-hour excursion, offered at $60 per person, promises a comprehensive look at royal tombs, temples, and statues, led by expert guides in air-conditioned comfort. The fact that it’s a private tour means you won’t be stuck in a large group—perfect for those who prefer a more intimate experience.

What we really love about this tour is the carefully curated stops, especially the inclusion of the Valley of the Kings and the rarely seen Tomb of Queen Nefertari. The knowledgeable Egyptologist guides are a standout, often highlighted for their ability to bring these ancient sites to life with engaging commentary. A potential downside is that the admission tickets are not included, so you’ll want to budget extra for entry fees. This tour suits history buffs, photographers, or anyone eager to explore Egypt’s awe-inspiring tombs and temples with insight and comfort.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience with knowledgeable Egyptologists
• Includes a variety of sites: tombs, temples, and iconic statues
• Private tour for a more personalized visit
• Transport and pickup included, simplifying logistics
• Admission tickets not included, so budget accordingly
• Ideal for history lovers and those seeking an authentic, in-depth experience

A Complete Review of the Luxor West Bank Tour

Why Choose This Tour?

This tour is designed to provide a balanced mix of Egypt’s most famous and less-visited sites. For the cost of $60, you receive a well-rounded experience that isn’t rushed—lasting about 5 hours and 30 minutes, it’s an excellent way to see the highlights without feeling overwhelmed. The private nature means your group gets undivided attention, and the air-conditioned transport keeps you comfortable during the day’s heat.

The tour is perfect for travelers who want to learn from expert guides. The reviews mention guides who are “knowledgeable,” “punctual,” and “available via WhatsApp,” which points to a high level of professionalism. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off is a real plus, reducing the hassle of finding transportation or navigating local taxis.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Tomb of King Tutankhamun

Starting at Tut’s tomb, you’ll get a rare glimpse into one of Egypt’s most iconic pharaohs. Tutankhamun was just 10 when he ascended the throne and died at 19. The tour mentions the chance to see his royal mummy, which is a significant highlight, as not all tombs are open or accessible.

While the visit lasts roughly 20 minutes, the experience is packed with history, and guides often share fascinating stories about Tut’s life and the discovery of his tomb in 1922. Keep in mind that admission tickets are not included, so you’ll want to plan for that expense.

Stop 2: Tomb of Ramses III

Next, the tour heads to KV 11, Ramses III’s elaborate tomb. Expect to see vibrant reliefs depicting scenes from the Litany of Ra and other divine texts. The detailed scenes of foreign tributes and royal armor reveal a lot about Egypt’s military and diplomatic ties.

This tomb is quite large, and the sunken reliefs, along with side chambers, offer plenty of photo opportunities. Again, note that tickets are extra, but the high-quality preservation makes this stop worth every penny.

Stop 3: Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el Bahari

This mid-morning stop is often a favorite. The Temple of Hatshepsut is one of Egypt’s most stunning monuments, set against the cliffs of Deir el Bahari. Its terraces and colonnades showcase remarkable architectural ingenuity, and the story of Hatshepsut—one of Egypt’s few female pharaohs—is fascinating.

Expect to spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes here, giving plenty of time to appreciate the craftsmanship, take photos, and hear stories about her reign. Guides often highlight her as a powerful and enigmatic figure, and the temple’s location offers wonderful views of the surrounding landscape.

Stop 4: Tomb of Merenptah

This tomb, discovered by Howard Carter, is a fascinating example of evolving tomb architecture. With grand corridors and soaring ceilings, Merenptah’s tomb reflects a shift towards larger, more elaborate royal burial sites. The depictions of Ptah, the god of craftsmen, add religious significance, making it a rich site for understanding Egyptian beliefs.

The visit lasts about 20 minutes, but it’s enough to get a sense of how royal tomb design evolved over the centuries.

Stop 5: Colossi of Memnon

These enormous statues, over 3,000 years old, are often the most iconic images travelers associate with Luxor. Standing sentinel for King Amenhotep III, the Colossi are a perfect photo backdrop and a reminder of Egypt’s architectural grandeur.

This stop is brief—around 20 minutes—but allows plenty of time to appreciate their scale and craftsmanship. It’s a no-ticket-required visit, making it a low-pressure, high-impact stop.

Stop 6: Tomb of Ramses IV

Next, the tour explores the vibrant tomb of Ramses IV. Its vivid hieroglyphics and scenes from the Book of the Dead stand out, especially the ceiling depicting goddess Nut. The granite sarcophagus is also a highlight, showcasing the luxurious burial practices of the time.

While tickets are extra, the artwork and preservation make this a standout stop for those interested in funerary art.

Stop 7: Valley of the Kings

The highlight of many Luxor visits, the Valley of the Kings houses some of Egypt’s most famous tombs—including Tutankhamun’s. Visiting four tombs, including those of Ramses III and Horemheb, offers a deep look into royal burial customs. The tomb of Tutankhamun remains a special focus, as it was found nearly intact and provides a rare, tangible link to ancient royalty.

Expect about an hour here—guides will share insights into the significance of the layout, the hieroglyphics, and the treasures buried with the pharaohs.

Stop 8: Tomb of Queen Titi

A lesser-known site, the Tomb of Queen Titi, adds a layer of mystery to the experience. Though not as famous, it offers a quiet moment to reflect on Egypt’s royal women and their burial sites.

This stop is brief—around 10 minutes—but provides a chance to see a different aspect of royal burial practices.

Stop 9: Valley of the Queens

The Valley of the Queens is quieter but equally impressive. With 110 tombs, it showcases the burial customs for queens and princesses. Guides often mention its original name, Ta-Set-Neferu, “The Place of Beauty,” hinting at the grandeur of these royal resting places.

Spending about an hour here lets you explore the tombs and appreciate the artistry and religious symbolism.

Final Stop: Tomb of Ramesses IX

The tour concludes with the Tomb of Ramesses IX, notable for its vibrant depictions of Nut and the impressive sarcophagus. It’s a fitting end, displaying the fine craftsmanship of the Twentieth Dynasty and leaving visitors with a sense of the artistic mastery of ancient Egypt.

Practical Insights & Tips

Transport & Comfort: The air-conditioned vehicle and hotel pickup/drop-off remove many logistical headaches, making the day smooth. Guides speak multiple languages—English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian—which broadens accessibility.

Pricing & Extra Costs: While the tour covers transportation and guiding, admission tickets are not included. You’ll want to budget for these, but the overall cost remains reasonable considering the depth of sites visited.

Timing & Duration: The tour lasts approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, which balances enough time for meaningful exploration without rushing. The stops are well-paced, with plenty of time to enjoy each site, take photos, and listen to insightful commentary.

Guide Experience: Based on reviews, guides are highly praised for their knowledge. They not only share facts but weave stories that bring the stones and murals to life, making the experience more engaging.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts who want an in-depth look at Egypt’s royal burial sites and temples. The private setup allows customization and personal attention—great for couples, families, or small groups. If you’re eager to learn details beyond the surface, like the significance of hieroglyphics or stories of the pharaohs, this tour delivers.

It also suits travelers who appreciate comfort and convenience, as hotel pickup and air-conditioned transport are included. However, be prepared for additional costs for entry tickets, and plan for a day packed with walking and exploration.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded, insightful journey through some of Egypt’s most treasured archaeological sites. The combination of experienced guides, convenient logistics, and a carefully curated itinerary makes it a fantastic choice for those keen on uncovering the stories behind the statues, tombs, and temples.

While the cost doesn’t include entry fees, the value is evident in the quality of guiding and the diversity of sites covered. The private nature of the tour ensures a personalized experience, allowing you to ask questions and explore at your own pace.

Overall, if you’re visiting Luxor and want a comprehensive, comfortable, and informative tour of the West Bank’s most legendary sites, this experience ticks all the boxes. It’s a perfect fit for anyone eager to connect with Egypt’s majestic past in an authentic and engaging way.

FAQs

Are hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple and stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, allowing ample time to see all the major sites.

Do I need to buy admission tickets separately?
Yes, admission tickets are not included, so you’ll need to purchase them separately for each site.

Can I customize the tour?
Since this is a private tour, guides are often flexible and can tailor the experience based on your interests.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider your children’s stamina for walking and the heat.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides can speak English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour exclusively for your group, providing a more personalized experience.

How much should I budget for extra costs?
Plan for additional expenses for admission tickets, which aren’t included in the tour price.

Embark on your Egyptian adventure with this thoughtfully curated tour, blending history, comfort, and expert insights for an unforgettable journey into the past.