Tour Highlights: A Journey Through Ancient Thebes
This approximately 8 to 9-hour private tour is specifically designed to maximize your sightseeing time while ensuring comfort and personalized attention. Everything is covered, including all entrance fees to the mentioned sites and a delightful buffet lunch at a local restaurant.
Key Ancient Sites You Will Explore:
| East Bank Monuments | West Bank Monuments |
| Karnak Temple Complex | Valley of the Kings (Necropolis of Thebes) |
| Luxor Temple | Temple of Queen Hatshepsut (Deir el-Bahari) |
| – | Colossi of Memnon |
| – | Valley of the Queens (as part of the general West Bank area exploration) |
Your personal Egyptologist guide will be with you every step of the way, providing expert commentary and bringing the history of these spectacular monuments to life. Exploring the ancient tombs in the Valley of the Kings is a cornerstone of this experience.
Detailed Itinerary: West Bank Wonders
Your day begins with convenient pickup and drop-off services directly from your Luxor hotel or Nile cruise ship. You have the flexibility to choose a preferred starting time, either 7:00 AM or 8:00 AM.
Morning: The West Bank
You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle across the Nile to the West Bank, known historically as the Necropolis of Thebes. This side of the river was the burial place for Pharaohs and Queens.
- Valley of the Kings: Your first major stop is the Valley of the Kings, the royal cemetery for nearly 500 years where Pharaohs of the New Kingdom, including Tutankhamun and Ramesses II, were entombed. You’ll have ample time to explore a select number of the intricately decorated royal tombs with your guide. The general admission ticket allows access to a small selection of the open tombs, and your guide can assist with optional tickets for more famous sites like the tomb of Tutankhamun.
- Temple of Queen Hatshepsut: Next, you’ll continue to the magnificent Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut (Deir el-Bahari), one of Egypt’s few female pharaohs. This striking temple is carved directly into the towering cliffs. Its unique design and monumental scale are truly impressive, offering a fascinating look at the power of this great queen.
- Colossi of Memnon: The final stop on the West Bank is a photo opportunity at the imposing Colossi of Memnon. These colossal stone statues are all that remain of the mortuary temple of Amenhotep III, standing as silent guardians to the historic area of West Thebes. This part of the tour perfectly rounds out the morning’s exploration of the royal burial and funerary sites.
Afternoon: East Bank Splendors
After the West Bank exploration, your vehicle will cross the Nile River back to the East Bank. The afternoon focuses on the grand religious complexes of ancient Thebes.
Lunch and East Bank Exploration
- Buffet Lunch: You’ll refuel with a delicious buffet lunch at a carefully selected local restaurant, offering a chance to relax before the afternoon’s adventures.
- Karnak Temple Complex: The afternoon begins with a visit to the monumental Karnak Temple Complex. This vast site is the largest religious building ever constructed and was a key place of worship, mainly dedicated to the Theban Triad. Wander through the massive Hypostyle Hall, a forest of towering columns, and marvel at the colossal statues and obelisks. Your guide will highlight the historical significance of this incredible site.
- Luxor Temple: The final stop is the beautiful Luxor Temple, located in the heart of modern Luxor. Once connected to Karnak by the Avenue of Sphinxes, this temple offers a stunning look at Ancient Egyptian worship and ceremony. Recent restoration work has revealed vibrant, original colored paintings on the walls, breathing life back into the ancient art. Witnessing the temple in the late afternoon light is a magical way to conclude your sightseeing.
Booking and Logistics
This exceptional private tour, providing an immersive Valley Of The Kings Vacation, is approximately 9 hours in duration, concluding with drop-off at your hotel or cruise ship around 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM, depending on your chosen start time.
Included in Your Private Tour:
- Round-trip transportation from your accommodation in Luxor via a private, air-conditioned vehicle.
- Services of a qualified, expert Egyptologist guide.
- Entrance fees to all the mentioned sites (Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, Temple of Hatshepsut, Karnak Temple, and Luxor Temple).
- Buffet lunch at a local restaurant.
- Mobile ticket for convenience.
Important Tour Information:
- Private Experience: This is an exclusive private tour/activity; only your group will participate.
- Accessibility: Please note that while our transport is modern, the ancient sites involve uneven surfaces and steps, meaning the tour is not wheelchair accessible.
- Travelers with Children: The tour is stroller accessible, and infant seats are available upon request.
- Flexibility: With an 8-hour structure, most travelers will find they can comfortably participate. Group discounts are available.
Don’t miss the chance to step back in time. Book your perfect Valley of the Kings tour through Cruise Era today!
