Luxor holds some of the finest ancient sites in Egypt, and many Cairo itineraries have no space for it. A same-day flight makes the trip possible, though it asks a lot of you. Here is how the day works and who it suits.
How the day runs
A private car takes you from your hotel to Cairo Airport at about four. You fly to Luxor and meet your guide and driver at around half past seven. The morning is spent on the West Bank at the Valley of the Kings, where the standard ticket covers three tombs, then at Hatshepsut's temple and the Colossi of Memnon. After lunch at a local restaurant you visit Karnak. You are driven to the airport at about half past four and fly back in the evening.
What you will not have time for
Luxor Temple, the museum and a quiet evening by the river all fall outside a single day. The extra-ticket tombs, such as Tutankhamun's and Seti I's, are not included either. Think of this as a day of the main highlights.
How booking works
The trip includes return flights, so it cannot be confirmed straight away. You reserve online, and we check flight seats for your date. We then confirm availability and the final fare. No payment is taken until that point, and if seats are not available we will suggest another day.
Who it suits
- Energetic travellers who sleep easily on planes and want one big day.
- Visitors with a short Cairo stay who do not wish to miss the Valley of the Kings.
- Not ideal for young children, or anyone who finds early starts and heat hard.
- A night in Luxor, or a Nile cruise, gives a calmer pace and more time.
Practical tips
Summer temperatures in Luxor are high, and the tombs feel stuffy by late morning. In that season, ask us about the earliest flights. Carry water, keep a hat on, and use the lunch stop to rest properly. Expect to feel worn out the next day, and plan something light.
What the walking is like
Expect a lot of time on your feet. The Valley of the Kings involves a short walk from the entrance to each tomb and steps down into the rock, Hatshepsut's temple has ramps and long terraces, and Karnak covers a large area of open ground. Wear comfortable closed shoes and light clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Your driver stays close to each entrance, and your guide will set the pace to suit the group. Take a small bag rather than a large one, as you will pass through airport security in both cities.
What catches people out
Flight times follow the airline schedule, so the exact times on your date may differ a little from those on the trip page. Security queues at the airport add time in both cities,. Photography rules in the tombs change from time to time, so ask your guide before you take out a camera. Gratuities and drinks with lunch are not included.
Open the trip page to choose a date and send your booking request.
Plan with us
Luxor from Cairo by air in a day: is it worth it?
A private day from Cairo to Luxor and back by air: the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut and Karnak. How it works and who should stay a night.