Luxor: West Bank Tombs & Karnak Temple Private Day Tour

Summary

Walk ancient tombs and temples in Luxor’s shifting desert light

You’ll feel history under your feet as you step into pharaohs’ tombs in Luxor’s Valley of the Kings, stand beneath Hatshepsut’s sunlit terraces, and wander Karnak’s vast halls with a local guide who brings every story to life. With hotel pickup included and time for local bites or a stroll by the Nile, this private day trip lets you soak up Egypt at your own pace.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I was nervous stepping out into Luxor’s morning haze, still half-awake and clutching my coffee. But our guide, Mahmoud, had this calm way about him that made me forget I’d barely slept. We started at the Valley of the Kings, which sounds grand (and it is), but what got me was the quiet. Just us and these painted walls that have somehow survived thousands of years. The air inside felt cool and a little dusty; I kept running my fingers over the carvings when no one was looking. There’s an option to see Tutankhamun’s tomb for extra — I skipped it, but now I’m kind of curious what I missed.

Next up was the Temple of Hatshepsut. The cliffs behind it are this pale honey color, almost glowing by late morning. Mahmoud told us how she ruled as Pharaoh — he even pointed out her cartouche on a column (I tried to pronounce it; he laughed). The place is huge but somehow delicate too, with all those terraces stacked up against the stone. And then suddenly you’re outside again, blinking in the sun at the Colossi of Memnon. They just sit there, massive and silent, while taxis honk past on the road nearby. It’s weirdly grounding.

After lunch (falafel wrap from a tiny stall — honestly, still thinking about that cumin smell), we crossed to the East Bank for Karnak Temple. The columns are so tall you lose your sense of scale; I caught myself craning my neck like a tourist cliché. There were families picnicking in patches of shade and a couple of kids selling postcards near the gate. If you’ve got time after Karnak, you can wander through Luxor’s souq or just walk along the Nile — we did both for a bit before heading back to our hotel with sand in our shoes and way too many photos on our phones.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Luxor West and East Banks

• Visit three tombs in Valley of the Kings
• Optional visit to Tutankhamun's tomb
• Tour Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el Bahari
• See the Colossi of Memnon statues
• Explore the Temple of Karnak complex
• Optional visit to Luxor souq or stroll city

Top questions

How long does this private day tour in Luxor last?

The full-day tour typically lasts around 8 hours from hotel pickup to return.

Is entry to Tutankhamun's tomb included?

No, visiting Tutankhamun's tomb is optional for an extra fee (200 Egyptian Pounds).

Are hotel pickups available for this Luxor tour?

Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel are included in the tour.

What sites are visited on this Luxor day trip?

The tour covers Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut, Colossi of Memnon, Karnak Temple, and Luxor Temple.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

No formal lunch is included; you’ll have time to buy food locally during breaks.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels; infants must sit on an adult's lap.

Are guides knowledgeable about Egyptian history?

Yes, tours are led by expert guides familiar with Luxor's history and culture.

Can I explore Luxor's souq during this day trip?

If time permits after visiting main sites, you can visit the souq or stroll central Luxor.

What’s included

Your day includes air-conditioned transport with pickup from your hotel and return at sunset, all service charges and taxes covered, plus an expert local guide who shares stories along every stop—from ancient tombs to temple courtyards—so you can just focus on soaking it all in.