Luxor: Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride & Hotel Pickup

Summary

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.

What’s the experience like?

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.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — 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

Top questions

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.

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.