Luxor West Bank Half-Day Tour with Guide & Pickup

Summary

Morning Tombs & Temples Tour on Luxor’s West Bank

Start your morning in Luxor with hotel pickup and a friendly local guide leading you through Valley of the Kings’ tombs, Hatshepsut Temple’s sunlit terraces, and Memnon’s silent giants. Visit artisan workshops before heading back—leaving you with vivid colors and stories that linger long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

We were barely awake when our driver showed up outside the hotel — it was just after 8:30, and the city still felt cool and quiet. Our guide, Ahmed, waved us into the van with a big grin and said, “Ready for the real Luxor?” I could smell fresh bread from a bakery as we drove through sleepy streets toward the West Bank. The Nile shimmered in the morning light, and honestly, I didn’t expect to feel so awake so fast.

First stop: Valley of the Kings. Ahmed handed us tickets and led us down into the tombs, where the air turned suddenly cool and heavy with dust. The colors on those walls — deep reds and faded gold — looked almost wet under our flashlights. He pointed out tiny hieroglyphs I would’ve missed on my own. “This one,” he said, tapping gently, “is for eternity.” It gave me goosebumps.

After that, we walked up to Hatshepsut Temple. Sun bouncing off pale stone everywhere — sunglasses are a must here. There were school kids laughing on the steps, snapping photos like they owned the place. Then we stopped at the massive Memnon statues; birds perched right on their heads like it was nothing special. Someone nearby was selling mint tea from a thermos — I grabbed a cup just to have something cold in my hands.

On our way back, Ahmed took us to a papyrus shop and an alabaster workshop. You could hear chisels tapping in the back room while someone explained how they make those little jars you see in every market stall. We got to try some perfume oils too — sandalwood stuck to my skin all afternoon.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — West Bank Temples and Crafts Tour

• You will go to the West Bank with a tourist guide
• Visit the Valley of the Kings and see three tombs
• Visit the Temple of Hatshepsut
• See the two statues of Memnon
• Visit Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple
• Visit Papyrus, Alabaster, and Perfume factories
• Return to the hotel at sunset

Top questions

How long does this Luxor West Bank half-day tour last?

The tour usually runs about 5–6 hours including transport from your hotel and all site visits.

Are entrance fees included in this private West Bank tour?

No, entrance fees are not included—you’ll pay those directly at each site.

Is this guided tour suitable for families or older travelers?

Yes, it’s suitable for all ages—there’s transport between sites and plenty of shade breaks.

What should I wear or bring for visiting Luxor’s temples?

Wear light clothes, good shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen—and bring water; mornings can heat up quickly.

What’s included

Your morning includes hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned car, guidance from a knowledgeable local who shares stories at every stop, plus visits to artisan papyrus and alabaster workshops before returning comfortably to your hotel by afternoon.