Luxor lies inland across the desert from Hurghada, and the temples of ancient Thebes are the great reward for a day away from the coast. The guided tour listed here lasts about fifteen hours, starts very early with a pickup around three in the morning from central Hurghada, and returns late at night. It covers the Temple of Karnak, lunch at a local restaurant, the Colossi of Memnon, the Temple of Amenhotep III, the Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut Temple, with an Egyptologist guide and soft drinks and water included. Entrance fees, the Tutankhamun tomb and an optional short motorboat ride are extra. The tour is run in several languages, with groups of up to a hundred, so smaller private options exist if you prefer. It is exhausting but rewarding, and suits energetic travellers with limited time. Anyone with more days in Egypt should consider an overnight stay in Luxor instead.
Is it worth it? If you will not otherwise reach Luxor, yes, because Karnak and the Valley of the Kings are among the great sights of the world. Be honest about the cost in time: around fifteen hours, much of it on the road, with long periods of rest in the vehicle. Children and anyone who struggles with heat or long journeys should think twice. Alternatives include an overnight trip, a flight from Hurghada, or a private driver who can move at your own pace.
What to bring: a passport or ID, cash in Egyptian pounds for entry tickets and tips, sunscreen, a hat, water, a camera and comfortable shoes with grip. The tomb of Tutankhamun and some other premium tombs carry separate tickets, so ask your guide about the cost and whether it is worth it. A light layer is useful for the cool early start and the air-conditioned coach.
Luxor itself: this twickly guide covers Hurghada, so for the full story of the temples, the West Bank, hot-air balloons and Aswan, see our dedicated Luxor and Aswan guide. For a single day, trust your guide to pace the sights, take the shaded rest breaks and keep time for lunch. Sleep before and after, and avoid scheduling a boat trip or a flight on the same day. Expect a very late return and a slow next morning.
What to expect
The experience
A guided coach tour with an Egyptologist, covering Karnak, lunch, the Colossi of Memnon, the Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut Temple.
Best time
Winter and cooler months, when the temples are comfortable; summer is extremely hot.
How long
About fifteen hours, starting around three in the morning.
Tips
Carry cash for entry fees and tips, wear sturdy shoes, bring water and sun protection, and ask in advance about the Tutankhamun ticket.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers with limited time who want ancient Egypt in a single day.
- Families
- Hard for young children because of the length and heat; best for teenagers and adults.
- Couples
- Memorable but tiring, and better with a rest day before and after.
- Pair with
- A slow day at the hotel pool afterwards.
- Time needed
- A full day and evening.
Good questions
How long is the Luxor day trip from Hurghada?+
The tour listed here lasts about fifteen hours, with a pickup around three in the morning. Much of the day is spent travelling.
Are entrance fees included?+
No, entrance fees are not included, and the Tutankhamun tomb and an optional motorboat ride are extra. Keep cash for these.
What sights are covered?+
The tour covers Karnak, the Colossi of Memnon, the Temple of Amenhotep III, the Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut Temple, with lunch. A guide leads the visit.
Is the Luxor day trip too much in one day?+
It is a long day, but many visitors find it worthwhile when time is short. If you can spare more time, stay a night in Luxor.
Where can I read about Luxor itself?+
Twickly has a separate Luxor and Aswan guide covering the temples, tombs and the Nile. Use it to plan the sights in more detail.