Luxor Travel Guide (Upper Egypt/Egypt/North Africa/Africa)

Introduction to Luxor

Luxor, a city located in Upper Egypt on the banks of the Nile River, is known as the “world’s greatest open-air museum.” The city is home to some of the most impressive ancient Egyptian monuments, a testimony to the country’s unique history and culture. It’s the perfect destination for travelers interested in ancient history, architecture, and culture.

List of Places to Visit in Luxor

With so many attractions to choose from, it’s hard to know where to start. Here’s a list of the must-visit places in Luxor:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Valley of the Kings - A royal burial site that contains the tombs of the Pharaohs and their consorts.
Karnak Temple - A complex of ancient temples, the largest religious structure ever built in the world.
Luxor Temple - A temple complex dedicated to the god Amun and featuring statues of former rulers.
Luxor Museum - A great collection of exhibits on Luxor’s history, offering an up-close look at mummies and other artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Luxor: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Nile River Cruise - A relaxing and scenic way to explore the city, a boat ride is a great way to see Luxor’s temples and rural villages along the banks of the Nile.
Hot Air Balloon Ride - Take a hot air balloon ride over the West Bank of Luxor to experience breathtaking views.
Felucca Ride - Take a traditional wooden boat ride on the Nile to get a glimpse into the local lifestyle.
Luxor Botanical Gardens - A beautiful oasis in the middle of the desert, featuring stunning scenery and a variety of plants and flowers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Luxor

Luxor has several hiking and biking trails that offer incredible views of the surrounding areas. Here are some of the best routes:

Theban Mountains - Get a glimpse of the pharaonic history of Luxor while hiking through the Theban Mountains.
Corniche - A great bike ride along the Nile River that takes you through the local markets and gardens.
West Bank - Explore the historic West Bank on foot or bike, where you can see the Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut’s temple.

Best Things to Do in Luxor: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours to keep you busy during your stay in Luxor. Here are some of the best things to do:

Sound and Light Show - A unique display of light and sound showcasing the history and culture of Luxor.
Horse Carriage Ride - Take a relaxing ride on a horse-drawn carriage through the streets of Luxor and discover the everyday life of the locals.
Camel Ride - A unique experience to take a ride on a camel and explore the desert areas around Luxor.
Hot Air Balloon Ride - Watch the sunrise from above on a Hot Air Balloon Ride.

Week-Long Itinerary for Luxor

To get the most out of your trip to Luxor, we’ve put together a week-long itinerary:

Day	Activity
Day 1	Visit Luxor and Karnak Temples
Day 2	Visit the Colossi of Memnon and Medinet Habu
Day 3	Explore the Valley of the Kings, the Valley of the Queens, and Queen Hatshepsut Temple
Day 4	Enjoy a Nile River Cruise in the afternoon
Day 5	Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride and visit Luxor Museum
Day 6	Visit the West Bank after breakfast
Day 7	Explore Luxor’s traditional markets and indulge in local food and drinks

Food and Drink Scene of Luxor

Luxor’s dining scene is a mix of traditional and modern cuisine, with plenty of options to suit every taste. Here are some popular local dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Koshari - A combination of rice, pasta, lentils, chickpeas, and tomato sauce, topped with fried onions.
Ta’ameya - A type of falafel made from fava beans instead of chickpeas.
Mahshi - Vegetables stuffed with rice, minced meat, and spices.
Umm Ali - A traditional Egyptian dessert consisting of pastry, raisins, coconut, and sweetened milk.

Local Beverages

Hibiscus Tea - A sweet and sour tea made from hibiscus flowers.
Karkade - A refreshing drink made from dried hibiscus flowers.
Sahlab - A warm, comforting drink made from orchid root flour, milk, and cinnamon.

Where to Stay in Luxor: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in Luxor, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some popular places to stay:

Sonesta St. George Hotel Luxor - A luxurious hotel located in the city center close to the Nile River.
Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor - A historic hotel with stunning architecture and a charming ambiance.
Nefertiti Hotel Luxor - A conveniently located budget hotel close to Luxor Temple.

What to Buy in Luxor: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Luxor is known for its unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best things to buy:

Alabaster-ware - Handmade vases, lamps, and statues made of alabaster.
Papyrus - Handmade paper crafted from the papyrus plant, features vivid Egyptian artwork.
Perfume - Fragrant oils and perfumes made from locally grown herbs, spices, and flowers.
Incense - Locally made incense sticks in a variety of scents and flavors.

Local Culture and Customs of Luxor

Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, and visitors should respect local customs and traditions during their stay in Luxor. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Dress Appropriately - When visiting religious and cultural sites, dress conservatively and cover your shoulders and knees.
Ask Permission Before Taking Pictures - Always ask permission before taking photos of individuals, especially women and children.
Be Polite - Egyptians are friendly people, but keep in mind that some behaviors may be considered rude, such as speaking too loudly or being overly demanding.

Best Time to Visit Luxor

The best time to visit Luxor is during the winter months from November to February, when the weather is mild and pleasant. The summer months from June to August can be very hot and humid, while spring and fall are relatively mild but still comfortable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Luxor

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your stay in Luxor:

Do:

Visit the ancient sites in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
Bargain with vendors at local markets and shops.
Learn a few Arabic words and phrases to communicate with locals.

Don’t:

Drink tap water - always drink bottled water.
Eat street food that has been sitting out in the sun for hours.
Touch or climb on ancient monuments and structures.

Safety and Health

Luxor is generally considered a safe destination for tourists, but it’s always important to take precautions. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy during your visit:

Safety in Luxor

Keep an eye on your valuables, especially in crowded areas.
Avoid large crowds or protests and always be aware of your surroundings.
Use licensed taxis and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Luxor

Drink only bottled water or water from reputable sources.
Protect yourself from the sun and heat by wearing sunscreen and hats.
Bring insect repellent to protect against mosquito bites.

Getting to Luxor: Transportation Options and Logistics

Luxor is easily accessible from major Egyptian cities by air, road, and rail. Here are some options for transportation to Luxor:

Airports Near Luxor

Luxor International Airport - Located 6 kilometers east of the city center, with domestic and international flights.
Aswan International Airport - Located 230 kilometers south of Luxor, with domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Luxor

Upper Egypt Bus Company - Located in Luxor city center and offers service to most major cities in Egypt.
Aboudi Bus Company - Located in the town of Armant, 16 kilometers south of Luxor.

Other Options

Train - Luxor has a well-connected train station with direct routes to Cairo and Aswan.
Car rental - Cars are available for rent at both the airport and in the city center.

How to Get Around in Luxor

Taxis and minibusses are the most convenient and affordable way to get around Luxor. Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked through hotels, and prices should be negotiated before departure. Minibusses, called “microbuses,” run along set routes and are a great option for budget travelers.

Where to Go Next from Luxor: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Luxor is a great base for exploring other destinations in Egypt, including:

Aswan - A popular destination known for its scenic beauty and ancient temples.
Dahab - A popular area with great diving and snorkeling opportunities from the Red Sea.
Cairo - Halfway between Luxor and Alexandria, Cairo is home to the famous Giza Pyramids and the Egyptian Museum.

Conclusion

Luxor is an incredible destination full of history, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re interested in ancient temples, outdoor activities, or delicious food, Luxor has something to offer for everyone. Plan your visit today and experience the wonders of this ancient city of Pharaohs.