If you’re headed to Luxor, Egypt, you’re in for a treat! We stopped in Luxor for two and a half days during our Jamila Nile Cruise and fell in love with the history. I left with so much knowledge about the ancient culture of the city. There’s plenty of things that you can do in the city, but these stood out to me.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
One thing you cannot leave Luxor without experiencing is a hot air balloon ride over the city at sunrise. This experience provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including the ancient city of Thebes and the lush countryside of the Nile Valley.
During the hot air balloon ride, you float above the city and enjoy panoramic views of famous temples and monuments, including the Temple of Luxor, and the Valley of the Kings.
Hot air balloon rides in Luxor typically take place early in the morning, when the winds are calmest, and last for about an hour. If you’re a scaredy cat like me, you’d be pleased to know how serious they take safety.
We ended up getting on the hot air balloon about 45 mins late because we were waiting on the perfect conditions. I was terrified getting on, but once I was in the air, I felt both at peace and in awe.
It’s such unique and unforgettable experience that offers a bird’s-eye view of the city and its surroundings. If you’re visiting Luxor, it’s a must-do activity that is sure to leave you with lasting memories.
Things to know before you go:
- The tours start early. Pickups start around 3 a.m. It took us two cars and a boat ride to reach our destination before sunrise.
- They will go over a safety briefing, but it will be brief. Don’t be afraid to ask more questions.
- When landing, it might be bumpy. If you squat down and hold the rail like the instructions, everything will be fine.
- Don’t forget your camera and/or GoPro. The sites will be unreal.
- Every tomb isn’t open every day. If you want to see specific tombs, be sure to call ahead so you can plan.
Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Kings is an archaeological site in Luxor, Egypt. It’s known as one of the most important archaeological sites in the world and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It is located on the west bank of the Nile River in Thebes (modern-day Luxor), and was the main burial place of the Pharaohs and their consorts of the New Kingdom period of ancient Egypt.
The valley contains 63 tombs, including those of King Tutankhamun, Ramesses II, and Hatshepsut.
What fascinated me was that the tombs are decorated with vivid and intricate wall paintings and carvings, providing a glimpse into the religious beliefs, daily life, and culture of ancient Egypt.
Things to know before you go:
- It will be HOT. Make sure to bring a cold water bottle, sunglasses, and a hat.
- The tram will only take you so far, so be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes. You will be walking a lot.
- The tombs are located underground and to reach some, you have to walk down steep and sometimes slippery stairs. Shoes with good traction is a must.
The Valley of Queens
The Valley of the Queens, is a place in Egypt where the wives and children of Pharaohs were buried. It is located near the better-known Valley of the Kings in Luxor, Egypt.
The valley contains over 75 tombs, many of which belong to the queens of the New Kingdom period, such as Queen Nefertari, the wife of King Ramses II, who was buried in a magnificent tomb that is considered one of the finest examples of Egyptian art. Other tombs belong to princesses and prince, as well as some non-royal women of noble rank.
Most of the tombs in the Valley of the Queens were plundered in ancient times, but some still contain fascinating wall paintings and inscriptions that provide valuable information about ancient Egyptian society and beliefs.
Luxor Temple
Luxor Temple is an ancient temple complex located in the city of Luxor in Upper Egypt. The temple is considered one of the largest religious structures of ancient Egypt and is renowned for its well-preserved columns, towering pylons, and grand halls.
The temple’s interior is lined with columns and adorned with colorful reliefs and hieroglyphs depicting scenes from Egyptian mythology and religious rituals.
One of the most striking features of Luxor Temple is the avenue of sphinxes that once connected it to the temple of Karnak. The avenue was lined with over 1,350 sphinx statues and was meant to symbolize the connection between the two temples and the gods they housed.
Things to know before you go:
- Try to get there right before sunset. The view is incredible and the temple is beautiful lit up at night.
- Take your time while visiting. It’s huge and can seem overwhelming, but try to take in how majestic it is.
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