From the silent tombs of pharaohs to the colossal temples of gods, this comprehensive journey offers an unparalleled immersion into a civilization that shaped the world.
Tour Itinerary & Highlights:
- 7:00 AM - Flexible Pickup: Your dedicated H&EM Hospitality Services Licensed Tour Guide will pick you up from your hotel, Nile Cruise, or even Luxor Airport at your convenience.
- Private Transfer: Travel in ultimate comfort and privacy in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle throughout your day.
**West Bank Exploration - The City of the Dead (approx. 4-5 hours):**Begin your adventure on the West Bank, the necropolis of ancient Thebes, where pharaohs sought eternal rest.
- The Valley of the Kings: Step into this desolate yet majestic valley, the burial ground for the powerful pharaohs of the New Kingdom (c. 1550–1069 BC). Explore selected tombs (entry to 3 standard tombs included) adorned with vibrant hieroglyphs and intricate scenes depicting the journey to the afterlife. Learn about the famous monarchs buried here, including Tutankhamun (exterior access; interior entry optional add-on).
- The Temple of Queen Hatshepsut (Deir El Bahari): Marvel at the unique, multi-terraced mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut (c. 1473–1458 BC), Egypt's most successful female pharaoh. Its striking modern design is a testament to her reign and monumental architectural vision.
- The Colossi of Memnon: Stand before the two gigantic stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, the only remaining elements of his vast mortuary temple. Learn the ancient legends surrounding these impressive sentinels.
**East Bank Exploration - The Temples of the Gods (approx. 3-4 hours):**After a delicious lunch, we cross to the East Bank, home to the magnificent temples dedicated to the gods.
- Karnak Temple Complex: Explore the largest ancient religious site in the world, developed over more than 1,000 years. Wander through its sprawling courtyards, towering pylons, and the awe-inspiring Great Hypostyle Hall with its 134 massive columns. Karnak was the principal cult center for the god Amun-Ra and a testament to the power of the pharaohs.
- Luxor Temple: Conclude your day with a visit to the beautiful Luxor Temple. Located along the Nile, this temple was primarily built by Amenhotep III and completed by Ramses II, serving as a center for the annual Opet Festival, a vital ritual for the rejuvenation of kingship. Admire its grand colonnades, statues, and the fascinating blend of ancient Egyptian and later Roman and Islamic influences.
- Return Transfer: At the end of your immersive day (around 5:00 PM), you will be comfortably transferred back to your hotel in Luxor or to Luxor Airport.
Why Choose This Tour?
- Comprehensive Coverage: See the most iconic sites of both the East and West Banks in one well-organized day.
- Expert Guidance: Benefit from a private, licensed tour guide who provides in-depth historical context and personalized attention.
- Comfort & Convenience: Enjoy private, air-conditioned transportation, pre-arranged entrance tickets, and a delicious lunch.
- Hassle-Free: All logistics are handled for a seamless and enjoyable experience.
- No Hidden Costs: Transparent pricing ensures you know exactly what's included.
What's Included:
- Pickup services from your hotel, Nile Cruise, or Luxor Airport and return.
- All transfers by a private air-conditioned vehicle.
- Private Licensed Tour Guide.
- Entrance fees to all the mentioned sites (basic entry to Valley of the Kings tombs, Hatshepsut Temple, Colossi of Memnon, Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple).
- Lunch at a good quality local restaurant.
- Bottled water throughout your trip.
- All service charges & taxes.
What's Excluded:
- Tipping for your guide and driver (optional).
- Any extras not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Entry inside the Tomb of King Tutankhamun (available as an optional add-on).
- Personal expenses.
Optional Add-ons:
- Entry inside King Tutankhamun's Tomb: Enhance your Valley of the Kings experience with a visit to the famous tomb of the boy-king (additional cost applies, highly recommended to book in advance due to limited daily visitor numbers).
Unravel the mysteries of ancient Thebes. Book your private Luxor East and West Bank Day Tour with H&EM Hospitality Services today!