What you can see in one day
Luxor is split by the Nile. On the West Bank are the tombs and funerary temples of the pharaohs; on the East Bank, in the town itself, are the great temples of Karnak and Luxor. A day trip usually visits the highlights of both banks.
- The Valley of the Kings: royal tombs cut deep into the rock, with painted walls that still look fresh after more than 3,000 years. A standard ticket includes a few tombs; some, such as Tutankhamun's, need an extra ticket.
- The temple of Hatshepsut: a temple of long terraces built against the cliffs for one of Egypt's few female pharaohs.
- The Colossi of Memnon: two giant seated stone statues of the pharaoh Amenhotep III.
- Karnak: one of the largest temple complexes ever built, with the famous hall of giant columns.
How the day usually works
Flight times change, so the exact plan depends on the day. When you ask, we'll send you the times, the sights and exactly what is included.
- Very early pickup from your hotel in Sharm El Sheikh and transfer to the airport.
- Flight to Luxor, about an hour.
- Sightseeing on the West Bank with a guide: the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut's temple and the Colossi of Memnon.
- Lunch.
- Karnak temple on the East Bank.
- Flight back to Sharm El Sheikh in the evening and transfer to your hotel.
Is a Luxor day trip right for you?
If you love history and have only one chance to see Luxor, a day trip by plane is a good way to do it. It is a long, busy day with a lot of walking, often in strong sun, and some tombs have steep steps and corridors. If you prefer a slower pace, ask us about spending a night in Luxor instead.
If you'd rather not fly, the Pyramids of Giza are another great ancient-Egypt day out: see our Cairo day trip or the Cairo trip by bus, both with the Grand Egyptian Museum.
What to bring and wear
- Your passport: you need it for the domestic flight.
- A hat, sunglasses and sun cream: Luxor is hot and sunny most of the year.
- Comfortable shoes for walking on uneven ground and steps.
- Light clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.
- Water and some cash for drinks, tips and extra tickets.
Good to know
Photography rules inside the tombs can change, so your guide will explain them on the day. For the gods and symbols you'll see on the temple walls, our guides to the gods of Ancient Egypt and Egyptian hieroglyphs are a nice way to prepare.