Half-day tour: Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut and Medinet Habu

Luxor has had many names: Thebes, Waset, the city of a hundred gates. Its modern name comes from the Arabic word for palaces. This half day covers the royal side of the city on the West Bank of the Nile.

You start in the Valley of the Kings and visit its best-known tombs. Then comes the Temple of Hatshepsut, whose three terraces rise from the desert floor into the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari. Look for the wall scenes of offerings and the painting of Anubis leading Hatshepsut to the shrine.

After a stop at the Colossi of Memnon, we add two visits at no extra charge: the great temple of Medinet Habu and an alabaster workshop where you can shop for souvenirs. Your own Egyptologist guide is with you throughout, and we drive you door to door in an air-conditioned vehicle with all entry tickets paid.

Why book the Luxor West Bank half-day tour

This tour suits travelers who want the royal side of Luxor in a single morning. It covers the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon, and adds two visits at no extra charge: Medinet Habu and an alabaster workshop.

At Hatshepsut’s temple, the three terraces rise from the desert floor into the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari. Look for the painting of Anubis leading the queen to the shrine. UNESCO’s Ancient Thebes listing gives more background on the West Bank.

Pickup is in the morning, which is the coolest part of the day on the West Bank. Wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen, and keep a small bottle of water with you between sites.