If you are on a beach holiday in Hurghada, Luxor is the closest place to see the great temples and tombs of ancient Egypt. A Luxor day trip from Hurghada is a long day, but for many people it is the highlight of their holiday. Here is how it works and whether it is right for you.
How far is Luxor from Hurghada?
The drive runs west from the Red Sea, through the mountains of the Eastern Desert and along the Nile Valley. It takes around four hours each way. A typical day leaves Hurghada at about 05:00 and gets back between 19:30 and 20:00, so expect around 14 to 15 hours in total, with roughly 8 hours on the road.
What can you see in one day?
- Karnak Temple: the vast temple complex of Amun, with the avenue of sphinxes and the 134 columns of the Great Hypostyle Hall.
- Valley of the Kings: the hidden burial ground of the New Kingdom pharaohs. A standard ticket covers three tombs; Tutankhamun’s tomb and the tomb of Seti I need extra tickets.
- Temple of Hatshepsut: the terraced temple of the woman who ruled as pharaoh, set against the cliffs.
- Colossi of Memnon: two giant seated statues, a quick photo stop on the West Bank.
If time allows, you can add a short felucca sail on the Nile before the drive home.
Is it worth it?
If you have only one free day and you want to see the real highlights of ancient Egypt, yes. Karnak and the Valley of the Kings are among the most impressive sites in the world, and you will not see anything like them on the coast.
It is less suitable if you are travelling with very young children, or if long journeys are uncomfortable for you. In that case consider an overnight trip instead.
Private or group trip?
Group coaches are cheaper, but they collect from many hotels and keep to a fixed timetable. On a private trip you have your own air-conditioned vehicle and driver, you leave when you are ready, and you spend more time at the sites and less time waiting. Our private Luxor day trip from Hurghada includes pickup from hotels in Hurghada, El Gouna, Sahl Hasheesh and Makadi Bay, a private Egyptologist guide in Luxor, entry fees for Karnak, the Valley of the Kings (three tombs) and Hatshepsut’s temple, and lunch. It is from $115 per person for groups of 6 or more; smaller groups pay more per person, as shown on the tour’s price table.
Tips for the day
- Bring your passport or ID. Police checkpoints on the Hurghada to Luxor road are routine.
- Ask your hotel for a packed breakfast, as you leave before breakfast is served.
- Wear comfortable shoes and a hat; there is a lot of walking in the sun.
- Bring cash for extra tomb tickets, drinks and tips.
- Charge your phone and bring a power bank for the long drive.
Overnight instead of a day trip
If you would rather not rush, turn it into an overnight trip with a Luxor hotel. You get more time at the sites, the Luxor Temple lit up at night, and the chance of a sunrise hot air balloon flight the next morning. Ask us for a quote.
Other day trips from Hurghada
You can also visit Cairo and the Pyramids in a day from Hurghada, or stay by the sea with a snorkelling trip. See all our Hurghada day tours.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the drive from Hurghada to Luxor?
Around four hours each way, including a short comfort stop.
Can I visit Tutankhamun’s tomb?
Yes, with an extra ticket bought on site at the Valley of the Kings.
When should I go?
October to April is the most comfortable. In summer it is very hot in Luxor, so the early start helps.