Egypt Discovery
From per person£44
ExcursionLuxor

Private Luxor Temple Half-Day Tour

Explore the east-bank temple with a private Egyptologist and see additions linked to Amenhotep III, Tutankhamun and Ramesses II.

At a glance

Departs
Daily

The short answer

Private Luxor Temple Half-Day Tour is a half-day private guided excursion covering Luxor Temple in Luxor, operated by Discovery Tours Egypt.
  • New

Snapshot

Good to know

Duration
Half Day
Travel style
Private Guided Excursion
Accommodation
N/A
Operated by
Discovery Tours Egypt
Destinations
Luxor Temple · Luxor
Includes
Private vehicle with driver · Pickup and drop-off at Luxor hotel or Nile cruise · Private licensed Egyptologist guide · Luxor Temple entrance ticket
Best for
First-time Luxor visitors · Ancient history enthusiasts · Couples and families seeking a private guided visit

Best time to go

October through April generally brings milder daytime conditions than the hot summer months, when temperatures in Luxor can exceed 40°C. Visit early in the day or later afternoon to reduce exposure to midday heat; opening hours and crowd levels vary by season and public holidays. During Ramadan, local schedules may change, so confirm pickup and temple access times in advance.

  • Arranged by Discovery Tours Egypt, a licensed Egyptian tour operator
  • Private licensed Egyptologist guide included
  • Private vehicle with driver and hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Luxor Temple entrance ticket included

02Overview

A first look

As Luxor’s streets stir around the east bank, the temple’s stone columns and statues bring the city’s older layers into view. Look for the differences between the work associated with Amenhotep III, Tutankhamun and Ramesses II, then trace the route of the ancient avenue towards Karnak Temple. This visit stays with Luxor Temple, rather than trying to fit several monuments into one outing, so there is time to notice carved details and ask questions as you go.

Our licensed Egyptologist puts those details in context, while we arrange the private vehicle, hotel pickup and return. Your driver will bring you back to your Luxor hotel or Nile cruise after the visit.

Background

The facts

Luxor Temple is on the east bank of the Nile in central Luxor, within the modern city. Construction began under Pharaoh Amenhotep III in the 14th century BC. The complex was subsequently expanded, including additions associated with Tutankhamun and Ramesses II. Its architecture includes courtyards, colonnades and statues.

The temple was connected to Karnak Temple, approximately 2.5 kilometers to the north, by the Avenue of Sphinxes. The avenue’s route runs through modern Luxor and is marked by sphinx figures; it was used for religious processions, including the annual Opet festival. Karnak and Luxor Temple are distinct archaeological sites and require separate visits.

This private half-day excursion focuses on Luxor Temple. A licensed Egyptologist guide accompanies visitors through the site, and the listed entrance ticket is included. Private vehicle pickup and drop-off are arranged at the visitor’s Luxor hotel or Nile cruise; the excursion does not include a visit to Karnak Temple.

Walking is required across open-air courtyards and uneven stone surfaces. Visitors should allow time for security and ticket checks at the entrance. The temple is especially atmospheric after dark when illuminated.

Named in this entry

Luxor Temple·Avenue of Sphinxes·Karnak Temple·Amenhotep III·Tutankhamun·Ramesses II·Nile River·Opet festival

Suited to

Is this for you?

Yes, if

  • This excursion suits first-time visitors to Luxor, history enthusiasts, and travelers who want a focused introduction to ancient Egyptian temple architecture. It is a private guided visit for individuals, couples, and families comfortable walking around an archaeological site for several hours.

What lingers

  • 01Explore Luxor Temple on the east bank of the Nile.
  • 02See architectural additions associated with Amenhotep III, Tutankhamun and Ramesses II.
  • 03Learn about the ancient avenue linking Luxor Temple with Karnak Temple.
  • 04Hear site context from a private licensed Egyptologist guide.
  • 05Visit a major ancient temple within modern Luxor.

Worth knowing

How this compares

Unlike Luxor itineraries that combine Luxor Temple with Karnak Temple or several west bank monuments, this excursion focuses on Luxor Temple alone. It includes private transport and a private licensed Egyptologist guide rather than a shared group transfer or self-guided visit.

The fine print

What's included – and what isn't

Included

  • Private vehicle and driver
  • Pickup and drop-off at your Luxor hotel or Nile cruise
  • Private licensed Egyptologist guide
  • Luxor Temple entrance ticket

Not included

  • Gratuities
  • Personal expenses and drinks
  • Lunch

Tailor it

Make it yours

  • The excursion is private, so pickup time and the pace at Luxor Temple can be coordinated with the operator. Ask about adding Karnak Temple or another Luxor stop
  • these are not part of the stated itinerary and may require additional time and entrance fees. Lunch, drinks and gratuities are excluded.

All requests handled by your dedicated specialist before booking.

Before you go

What to pack & wear

Children & families

Every child takes a seat in the vehicle. Transport and guide are charged at the adult rate at any age; entrance tickets are free for children under 6 and charged in full from age 6. Luxor Temple's uneven paving and steps may tire younger children. Pushchairs can be awkward to push and may not be practical throughout the site. Please mention any mobility requirements when you book.

Indicative rates only – pricing and departure fluctuate. Please enquire for live rates on your specific dates.

·In summary

The private half-day Luxor Temple tour includes private vehicle pickup and drop-off at a Luxor hotel or Nile cruise, a licensed Egyptologist guide, and the Luxor Temple entrance ticket. The visit focuses on the temple’s courtyards, columns, statues and historical additions associated with Amenhotep III, Tutankhamun and Ramesses II.

Asked & answered

Frequent questions

  1. 01How long does the Private Luxor Temple Half-Day Tour last?
    This excursion typically runs for 3 to 4 hours, from the moment of pickup until your return. It is designed to offer a focused and unhurried exploration of Luxor Temple.
  2. 02What are the arrangements for pickup and drop-off?
    We provide private vehicle transport, collecting you directly from your hotel or Nile cruise ship in Luxor. Our driver will confirm a precise meeting time with you beforehand.
  3. 03What is included in the Private Luxor Temple Half-Day Tour?
    The tour includes a private air-conditioned vehicle with a driver, convenient pickup and drop-off services, a private licensed Egyptologist guide, and your entrance ticket to Luxor Temple.
  4. 04What costs are not covered by the tour price?
    Gratuities for your guide and driver are not included. Additionally, personal expenses, any drinks you purchase, and lunch are excluded, allowing you flexibility during your visit.
  5. 05Is Luxor Temple suitable for travellers with limited mobility?
    Luxor Temple involves walking over ancient, uneven stone pathways and some ramps. While many find it manageable, we recommend discussing any significant mobility concerns with us prior to booking.
  6. 06Can families with children join this private tour?
    Yes, this private tour is well-suited for families. Our Egyptologist guides are skilled at adapting their commentary to engage younger visitors, making the history of Luxor Temple accessible and interesting for all ages.
  7. 07What clothing and items should I bring for the Luxor Temple tour?
    We advise wearing comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sun cream. Modest clothing, covering shoulders and knees, is recommended for religious sites. Please also bring water to stay hydrated.
  8. 08What is the photography policy at Luxor Temple?
    Personal photography is generally allowed at Luxor Temple. However, flash photography may be restricted in certain areas, and an extra ticket might be required on-site for video cameras.
  9. 09When is the best time of day to visit Luxor Temple?
    Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon is best to avoid the midday heat and larger crowds. The temple is also beautifully illuminated after sunset, offering a different perspective.
  10. 10How does this tour differ from other Luxor excursions?
    Unlike itineraries that combine several monuments, this tour focuses exclusively on Luxor Temple. This approach allows for a more thorough and relaxed exploration of its architecture and historical significance with your private Egyptologist.

If plans change

Plans change? We make it easy.

  • More than 72 hours before your tour: keep the full amount as credit towards a future holiday with us, or take a refund.
  • Between 72 and 24 hours: keep the full amount as credit, or take a partial refund.
  • Within 24 hours of the tour, or if you don't join it, we're unable to offer a refund or credit.
  • Should we ever have to cancel, because of the weather or anything else beyond our control, you won't lose a penny.

Credit is valid for 12 months and can be used on any tour, cruise or stay with us.Read our full cancellation and refund policy

Product ID: EXC-LUX-887434

You Might Also Like

Abu Simbel by Plane from Aswan – Day TourAswan

Abu Simbel by Plane from Aswan – Day Tour

We arrange a private return flight from Aswan International Airport (ASW) to Abu Simbel Airport (ABS) for a day visit to the temples at Abu Simbel. Flight time is approximately 40–50 minutes each way. On arrival our English-speaking Egyptologist will guide you at the Great Temple of Ramesses II and the Small Temple of Nefertari. The site forms part of the Nubian Monuments from Abu Simbel to Philae (UNESCO, 1979). We include standard site entrance fees, airport handling and domestic flight taxes, and private transfers to and from your Aswan hotel or Nile cruise. Practical notes and trade-offs: the tour requires an early start and is tightly scheduled according to domestic flight timetables; the on-site visit is usually brief (typically 1–2 hours) so you should expect a short, focused walk around the façades and interiors. There is limited shade at the site and much walking is on uneven ancient stone. Photography opportunities are best outside the temples; the solar alignment that illuminates the inner sanctuary of Ramesses II occurs around 22 February and 22 October each year. Flights use regional aircraft and luggage/weight limits set by the carrier apply. The tour is operated by our Egyptologists and ground team, licensed by the Egyptian Tourism Authority (ETAA).

From £418

Abu Simbel by Road from Aswan Day TourAswan

1 Days

Abu Simbel by Road from Aswan Day Tour

A full-day road transfer from Aswan to the twin rock-cut temples at Abu Simbel, returning the same day. Walk among the four seated colossi of the Great Temple of Ramesses II and cross to the adjacent Temple of Nefertari, both moved above the original Nile shore during the 1960s resettlement. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and can confirm local entrance arrangements and Egyptologist-guided visits. The road option lets you see Lake Nasser and the desert landscape between Aswan and Abu Simbel, rather than traveling by air.

From £81

Alexandria 2 Nights from Cairo – Wad Natrun & Pompey's PillarCairo

Alexandria 2 Nights from Cairo – Wad Natrun & Pompey's Pillar

Two-night private itinerary from Cairo to Alexandria, visiting Wad Natrun monasteries, Pompey's Pillar, the Kom el-Shoqafa catacombs, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and the Roman Museum. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and we arrange private transfers and an Egyptologist to accompany key visits. Cairo to Alexandria is about 220 km (roughly 2.5–3 hours by car). Unlike rushed one-day coach excursions, this itinerary gives you two nights and a full day in Alexandria to see the main sites at a steady pace. Trade-offs: expect early starts, a long road transfer each way and limited shade at several outdoor sites.

From £222