Five days based in Luxor, the world's greatest open-air museum, with time to explore both banks of the Nile at an unhurried pace.
No other place on earth holds as many monuments of the ancient world in as small an area as Luxor. On the east bank, Karnak and Luxor Temple anchor a city still alive with markets and riverside cafes. On the west bank, the Valley of the Kings and the mortuary temples of the pharaohs sit quietly in the desert hills.
Five days gives you room to see both sides properly, with an evening to spare for an illuminated temple, a sunrise balloon if you choose, and time among the artisan workshops that keep Luxor's old crafts alive.
Painted reliefs inside a royal tomb on the West Bank
The Pyramids of Giza, a first glimpse of Egypt on the transfer from the airport
Alabaster and weaving workshops along the riverbank
Transfer to your hotel and an evening orientation walk to Luxor Temple, illuminated after dark.
A full morning exploring the hypostyle hall and sanctuaries of Karnak, connected to Luxor Temple by its restored avenue.
Descend into royal tombs on the West Bank, visit the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon.
An optional sunrise hot air balloon over the West Bank, followed by Medinet Habu and a free afternoon among local workshops.
Private transfer to Luxor International Airport for your onward flight.
Drift silently over the Valley of the Kings and the Theban hills as the sun rises, a once-in-a-lifetime view of the West Bank.
An evening sail on a traditional wooden felucca, watching Luxor's temples catch the last light.
A compact museum visit followed by an evening stroll through Luxor's souk with your guide.
Balloon operators in Luxor are well-established and fly daily, weather permitting. The early start is genuinely worth it. We treat it as optional because it isn't for everyone, but most guests who try it call it a highlight.
Tomb visits involve some steps and uneven ground, and temples are mostly outdoors. We schedule outdoor sightseeing for the morning and keep afternoons lighter, especially between May and September.
Yes, easily. Luxor is the natural starting or ending point for our Nile cruise itinerary, and we can link the two without a wasted day.
October to April offers the most comfortable temperatures for tomb-hopping and balloon flights. Summer visits are possible but best paced with more midday downtime.
