Luxor: Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride & Hotel Pickup

See Luxor’s ancient temples from a sunrise balloon above the desert

You’ll float over Luxor at sunrise in a hot air balloon, watching ancient temples and fields come alive below you. With hotel pickup included, you’ll glide quietly above the Nile as morning breaks, guided by locals who know every landmark. Expect small surprises (laughter in the basket, golden light on stone statues), and a view that stays with you long after landing.

Step-by-step itinerary

Hot air balloon ride over Luxor

• Hotel pickup in air-conditioned vehicle
• Drive to West Bank launch site
• Enjoy sunrise hot air balloon ride
• View ancient landmarks from above

The experience

There’s this odd hush just before dawn on the West Bank of Luxor, not quite silence, but close. I remember the soft whoosh of the burners as our hot air balloon started to inflate, and someone nearby (maybe Ahmed, our driver?) handed me mint tea that smelled like my grandmother’s garden. The sky was still navy when we climbed into the basket, and honestly, I felt both giddy and a bit nervous: heights aren’t really my thing, but it was too late to back out.

As we lifted off, Luxor stretched out below us in slow motion. The Nile looked almost unreal from up there: thin and silver, with little boats drifting like lazy beetles. Our pilot pointed out the Colossi of Memnon and what he called “the sleeping giants.” I tried to snap a photo but fumbled with my phone because my fingers were cold (should’ve brought gloves). There was this moment when the sun broke over the horizon and everything (tombs, fields, even some distant rooftops) turned gold for about five minutes. I didn’t expect it to feel so quiet up there. You could hear birds waking up far below.

I think what surprised me most was how much you notice from above: farmers waving at us from tiny plots, kids chasing each other near temple ruins. Someone in our group tried to spot their hotel but gave up laughing. The flight lasted about half an hour, but it felt longer, or maybe just fuller? When we landed (softly, thank god), there were handshakes all around and a few jokes about “surviving Egypt’s sky.” Our driver was waiting with the van already cooled down inside, which felt like luxury after the sun started heating things up fast.

What’s included

Your day includes comfortable pickup from your hotel or boat in Luxor (and drop-off afterward), all necessary entry fees and taxes covered upfront, plus around 30 minutes floating above ancient monuments as morning arrives over the city.

Before you book

Lasts 3h, runs every day at 04:30, from US$ 65 per person, with a live guide in English and with free cancellation up to 24 h before.

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 04:30

Book up to4h before

AgesAdult (13 to 80 years) · Child (6 to 12 years) · Under 6: can't be booked

GroupUp to 32

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 5 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by hot air balloon in luxor

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (6 to 12 years). Children under 6 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How long does the Luxor hot air balloon ride last?

The flight lasts about 30 minutes.

Is hotel pickup included for this sunrise balloon tour?

Yes, pickup from your hotel or boat is included.

Are entry fees or taxes extra?

No, all fees and taxes are included in your booking.

Is this hot air balloon ride suitable for everyone?

It’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or heart issues.

Where does the balloon launch from in Luxor?

The launch site is on Luxor’s West Bank. Transfers are provided.