How to Plan Your 8 Hour Tour to Nefertari’s Tomb, King Tut’s Tomb, Valley of the Kings, Queen Hatshepsut Temple, and Karnak Temples in Luxor

Are you a history lover who wants to explore the ancient sites around Luxor? Then this full-day tour of temples and tombs might be perfect for you! With a guide educated in Egyptology, you’ll get to learn about the mysteries of Tutankhamun and other legends as you visit the Tomb of King Tutankhamun, the Tomb of Queen Nefertari, the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, and the Temple of Karnak.So, here’s how you can plan your 8 hour tour to explore these amazing sites:

Step 1: Book Your Tour

To start, you’ll need to book your tour beforehand to avoid any hassle. Click on book the tour here and select a suitable date for your visit.

Step 2: Decide on Balloon Ride Option

Before the tour starts, you’ll have the option of hot air ballooning for an additional cost of $80 pp. If you’re into such adventures, be sure to choose this option when booking your tour.

Step 3: Pickup Details

On the scheduled day, the tour starts at 8:00 AM. The pickup point is any central located hotel (East and West Bank). The exact pickup details will be provided to you after booking the tour.

Step 4: Explore the Ancient Sites Around Luxor

When everything is set, your Egyptologist guide will accompany you throughout the day, providing you with fascinating insights and information about the ancient pharaohs’ reign.Here are the four main highlights of the tour that you will visit:

Tomb of King Tutankhamun

Located in the Valley of the Kings, the Tomb of King Tutankhamun is a must-visit site on this tour. This pharaoh’s intact tomb provided a wealth of artifacts and treasures that help us better understand the ancient Egyptian civilization.

Tomb of Queen Nefertari

Heralded as one of the most beautiful and well-preserved tombs in ancient Egypt, the Tomb of Queen Nefertari is well worth a visit. The exquisite decorations and paintings are still vibrant after all these centuries.

Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings is an impressive collection of tombs and chambers hidden deep beneath the dry sands of the Theban Hills. Your Egyptologist guide will take you on a journey through the most interesting and historically significant tombs.

Temple of Hatshepsut

Situated at the base of towering cliffs in the desert hills, the Temple of Hatshepsut is a breathtaking monument with a fascinating history. It’s worth spending some time here to appreciate the temple’s unique features and explore its intricacies.

Temple of Karnak

The Temple of Karnak is the largest temple complex in Egypt, and was the second most visited site after the Giza Pyramids in ancient times. You can explore its vast halls, beautifully carved columns, and intricate hieroglyphics for hours.

Step 5: Enjoy the Included Lunch and Drinks

Lunch is included in the tour, and you’ll get to enjoy some local Egyptian cuisine during a break in between visits. Drinks are also included, so you can stay hydrated throughout the day.

Step 6: Return to Pickup Point

After spending eight hours exploring the ancient sites around Luxor, your Egyptologist guide will take you back to your original pickup point.

Conclusion

This full-day tour of temples and tombs is a great way to explore the ancient history of Luxor. Be sure to book your tour ahead of time, and don’t forget to bring a camera to capture those unforgettable moments. With an Egyptologist guide accompanying you, you’ll get to learn about the mysteries of Tutankhamun and other legends as you visit the Tomb of King Tutankhamun, the Tomb of Queen Nefertari, the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, and the Temple of Karnak. So, what are you waiting for? Book your tour today and make your visit to Luxor unforgettable!

Frequently Asked Questions About Luxor, Egypt

Luxor is a fascinating city that comprises a great deal of historical landmarks and ancient architecture that has been widely known around the world. Due to its popularity, we often receive queries from our readers about Luxor. Whether you’re planning a trip to this city or are simply curious, we’ve compiled some of the most commonly asked questions for your convenience.

What is Luxor most famous for?

Luxor is widely-known for its historical landmarks, including the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and Luxor Temple. The city was home to the ancient Egyptian kingdom of Thebes and is often referred to as the world’s largest open-air museum due to its wealth of archaeological treasures.

What is the best time of year to visit Luxor?

The best time to visit Luxor is during the winter months, between November and February. During this time, temperatures are cooler, making it more comfortable to enjoy outdoor activities and tours. Summers in Luxor can be exceptionally hot, and the high humidity can make conditions unbearable.

What are the most popular historical landmarks in Luxor?

As mentioned earlier, Luxor is widely-known for its abundance of historical landmarks, some of which include:

Karnak Temple

Karnak, located on the east bank of the Nile River, is considered one of the world’s most significant ancient religious sites. It is a large complex that covers over 2 square kilometers and is dedicated to the worship of the god Amun.

Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings is a necropolis that served as the burial place for pharaohs of the New Kingdom period. It is comprised of over 60 tombs and chambers containing intricate wall paintings and hieroglyphics.

Luxor Temple

The Luxor Temple is located on the east bank of the Nile River and is a large temple complex dedicated to the god Amun. It is known for its massive columns and intricate carvings.

What is the cuisine like in Luxor?

Egyptian cuisine is heavily influenced by its Mediterranean and Middle Eastern neighbors. Some of the most popular dishes in Luxor include koshari, a vegetarian dish made with lentils, rice, and pasta, and fuul, a stew made with fava beans, garlic, and lemon juice. Other popular dishes include kebabs, shawarma, and falafel.

What are some popular activities to do in Luxor?

Aside from visiting historical landmarks, there are several other popular activities to enjoy in Luxor, including:

Hot Air Balloon Ride

A hot air balloon ride over Luxor is one of the most popular tourist activities. It offers breathtaking views of the city and its landmarks, including the Valley of the Kings and the Nile River.

Nile River Cruise

A Nile River cruise is a popular way to explore Luxor and its surroundings. Several tour operators offer multi-day cruises that provide stops at historical landmarks and other popular tourist attractions.

Shopping in Luxor

The city is home to several souks and markets where visitors can purchase traditional handicrafts, spices, and other goods.

What is the best way to get around Luxor?

The most common way to get around Luxor is by taxi, although it’s important to negotiate the fare upfront to avoid overcharging. Another popular option is to hire a private guide or join a tour group.

Is Luxor safe for tourists?

Like most tourist destinations, Luxor is generally safe for tourists. However, visitors should take precautions to avoid becoming the victim of petty crime. It’s important to keep valuables secure and avoid walking in isolated areas at night.

What is the official language spoken in Luxor?

The official language in Luxor, as well as Egypt as a whole, is Arabic. However, many locals also speak English, especially those who work in the tourism industry.

Can I visit Luxor on a day trip?

While it’s possible to visit Luxor on a day trip from Cairo, we recommend spending at least two to three days in the city to fully explore its landmarks and attractions.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Luxor?

We recommend avoiding tap water in Luxor and instead drinking bottled water, which is widely available.

What is the area code for Luxor?

The area code for Luxor is +20 95.

What is the currency used in Luxor?

The currency used in Luxor, as well as Egypt, is the Egyptian Pound (EGP).

What is the time zone in Luxor?

Luxor follows Eastern European Time (EET), which is two hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2).

Conclusion

Luxor is a beautiful and historic city that is definitely worth a visit. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient temples or enjoying the local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Luxor. We hope that this guide has answered some of your most pressing questions and that it helps you plan your visit to this incredible destination.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Luxor

Luxor is often referred to as the world’s greatest open-air museum. With its impressive temples, pharaonic tombs, and ancient ruins, this city on the banks of the Nile has become a popular tourist destination. In this guide, we will provide you with a few pointers on how to make the most of your visit and spend your time in Luxor.

1. Visit the Karnak Temple Complex

The Karnak Temple Complex is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Egypt. It is dedicated to the god Amun, his wife Mut, and their son Khonsu. The complex is made up of a series of temples and chapels, pylons, and obelisks. Visitors can spend hours exploring the various sections of the temple, including the Sacred Lake, the Hypostyle Hall, and the Great Court of the Amun Temple.

2. Explore the Luxor Temple

The Luxor Temple is another must-see attraction in the city. It was built in 1400 BC and is famous for its beautiful statues of Ramses II and the Great Colonnade. The temple is open to visitors from early morning until late at night, allowing tourists the opportunity to see it at different times of the day.

3. Cross the Nile to the West Bank

The West Bank of the Nile is home to some of the most famous tombs and temples in the world. Visitors can take a ferry across the river and explore the Valley of the Kings, where pharaohs were buried for over 500 years. The tombs are decorated with intricate murals and hieroglyphics that provide insight into the lives of the ancient Egyptians.

4. Visit the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut

The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut is one of the most striking structures on the West Bank. It was built in honor of Hatshepsut, one of the few female pharaohs of ancient Egypt. The temple is carved into the rock face and blends in seamlessly with the surrounding hills. Visitors can climb up to the second level and enjoy stunning views of the valley.

5. Walk through the Colossi of Memnon

The Colossi of Memnon are two massive stone statues that stand on the West Bank of the Nile. They are all that remain of the mortuary temple of Amenhotep III, which was destroyed in an earthquake. The statues are over 18 meters tall and are the perfect backdrop for some memorable vacation photos.

6. Take a hot air balloon ride over Luxor

For those wanting to see the city from above, taking a hot air balloon ride at sunrise is a great option. The views over the temples and the Nile are truly breathtaking, and the quiet of the early morning provides the perfect atmosphere for a relaxing flight.

7. Explore the Luxor Museum

The Luxor Museum is a smaller museum that houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the region. Visitors can see statues, mummies, jewelry, and other objects that provide insight into the daily lives of the ancient Egyptians. The museum is well-curated and offers visitors an excellent overview of the history of the region.

8. Shop for souvenirs at the Luxor Bazaar

The Luxor Bazaar is a bustling marketplace that offers visitors the chance to shop for souvenirs, spices, and handicrafts. Bargaining is expected, so be prepared to haggle for the best price. The market is a fun place to explore and offers an excellent opportunity to experience the local culture.

Conclusion

Luxor is a fascinating city with a rich history and plenty of attractions to keep visitors entertained. By following this guide, you can make the most of your time in the city and experience all that it has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just looking for a relaxing vacation, Luxor is the perfect destination.