Private Luxor Day Trip from Hurghada: Valley of the Kings & Karnak

Summary

Luxor Private Tour with Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple

If you want to see Egypt’s ancient wonders up close without crowds or hassle, this private Luxor tour from Hurghada is worth it. You’ll explore famous sites like Karnak Temple and Valley of the Kings with a knowledgeable local guide—and there’s plenty of time for photos (and shade breaks) along the way.

What’s the experience like?

The day started before sunrise—Hurghada was still quiet when our driver pulled up outside the hotel. The road to Luxor is long but smooth, and I watched the desert change color as we drove. By the time we reached Luxor, the air felt warmer and carried a faint scent of dust and sweet tea from roadside stalls. Our guide, Ahmed, greeted us with a big smile and handed out cold water bottles—trust me, you’ll want them later.

Karnak Temple was our first stop. It’s hard to describe how huge this place feels until you’re actually standing between those ancient columns. Ahmed pointed out carvings I’d have missed on my own—tiny details in the stone that tell stories about pharaohs and gods. There were local kids selling postcards near the entrance, calling out in a mix of Arabic and English. The temple complex sprawls for what seems like forever; every corner has something new to see.

The Valley of the Kings came next. We entered just after midday, when the sun was high but there’s always a breeze running through those rocky hills. Inside one tomb, the air turned cool and still—the walls are covered in colors that haven’t faded much even after thousands of years. Seeing Tutankhamen’s name written in hieroglyphs felt surreal. You can almost hear your footsteps echo off the stone as you walk deeper inside.

Lunch was at a simple spot near the river—a plate of grilled chicken, rice, and fresh bread. Nothing fancy but honestly just what we needed after all that walking. Afterward, we visited Hatshepsut’s Temple at Deir el-Bahari. The ramps connecting each level make it look different from any other temple I’ve seen; it’s built right into the cliffs so you get this dramatic backdrop behind every photo.

Before heading back to Hurghada, we stopped at the Colossi of Memnon—two giant statues rising up from an open field. Hard to believe they were moved here all the way from Cairo centuries ago! A few vendors nearby sold dates and small souvenirs; I grabbed some for snacks on the ride home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Luxor Ancient Sites Tour

• Visit Karnak Temple
• Explore Valley of the Kings
• Tour Temple of Hatshepsut
• See Colossi of Memnon

Top questions

How long does it take to drive from Hurghada to Luxor?

It usually takes about 4 hours each way by car, depending on traffic and stops along the route.

Is lunch included in this tour?

Yes, lunch is provided at a local restaurant during your visit in Luxor.

Are these sites accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?

Most locations are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers; let us know if you need extra assistance so we can help arrange it.

Can young children join this tour?

Absolutely! Infants and small children are welcome—you can bring a pram or stroller if needed.

What’s included

Your private tour includes round-trip transport in an air-conditioned vehicle from your hotel in Hurghada, all entrance fees to Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, and Colossi of Memnon, plus lunch at a local restaurant. Wheelchair access is available throughout most stops.