Hurghada Excursions – Sightseeing Tours & Day Trips
Luxor West & East Bank Day Trip from Soma Bay / Sahl Hasheesh

Luxor West & East Bank Day Trip from Soma Bay / Sahl Hasheesh
Explore Karnak and Luxor Temple on the East Bank, then Hatshepsut and the Colossi on a guided trip from Soma Bay or Sahl Hasheesh.
Luxor West & East Bank Day Trip from Soma Bay / Sahl Hasheesh invites you to step beyond the ordinary and enter a world where ancient pharaohs carved their stories into stone, where the Nile shaped civilizations, and where every temple whispers a fragment of Egypt’s timeless soul.
As you wander through ancient avenues, towering pylons, and sacred sanctuaries, you’ll feel a deep emotional connection to the stories of kings, queens, priests, and builders whose legacies still shape modern Egypt. The experience is enriched with moments of relaxation, like optional Nile Felucca sailing , scenic photo opportunities, and a flavorful lunch overlooking the river that has nurtured life for thousands of years.
Discover more about Luxor and browse historical and cultural experiences before comparing your options.
01.At a glance
02.What makes this journey distinctive
Karnak
A major temple complex shaped by successive dynasties.
Royal tombs
The Valley of the Kings preserves decorated burial chambers.
Hatshepsut
A terraced sanctuary built against the western cliffs.
Nile crossing
The river divides Luxor’s east and west archaeological landscapes.

03.Day-by-day route and major stops
The Karnak and Luxor Temple side of the city.
Travel toward the West Bank archaeological landscape.
Hatshepsut and the Colossi are visited according to the programme.
Guided day programme
Early Morning Pickup from Soma Bay / Sahl Hasheesh
Your journey begins with an early, gentle pickup from your hotel in Soma Bay or Sahl Hasheesh , where a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle awaits to start your scenic drive toward Luxor , the ancient capital of pharaohs. As you leave the coastline behind, the road unfolds through wide desert landscapes painted in soft morning colors, creating a peaceful mood that prepares you for a day filled with discovery. The smooth transfer ensures a relaxing start, allowing you to settle in, sip your coffee, and enjoy the quiet beauty of Egypt’s eastern desert before reaching the Nile Valley.
Guided Exploration of Karnak Temple – The Great Temple of Amun
Stepping through the monumental entrance of Karnak Temple , you immediately feel the weight of thousands of years of history surrounding you. Your expert guide leads you along the ancient processional way , where colossal ram-headed sphinxes once guarded the path to the heart of the sanctuary dedicated to Amun-Ra . As you enter the breathtaking Hypostyle Hall , the towering forest of 134 massive columns rises above you, each covered with intricate carvings that reveal stories of kings, rituals, and divine power.
Scenic Transfer Across the Nile to the West Bank
The moment you board the boat for your Nile crossing , a gentle sense of anticipation fills the air. As the vessel glides across the calm waters of the world’s longest river , you feel the landscape shift around you—lush palms, golden horizons, and the distant silhouette of the Theban mountains guiding your journey toward the legendary West Bank of Luxor . This peaceful transfer is more than simple transportation; it is a soulful transition from the ceremonial world of temples to the hidden realm of royal tombs , where ancient secrets sleep beneath the desert cliffs.
Visit to the Temple of Hatshepsut – The Queen’s Cliffside Sanctuary
As you approach the majestic Temple of Hatshepsut , the landscape transforms into one of the most breathtaking scenes in ancient Egypt. Rising elegantly from the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari , this extraordinary structure blends perfectly with the dramatic mountains behind it, creating a sanctuary worthy of Egypt’s most powerful female pharaoh. Your guided visit begins along the grand terraced levels , where sweeping ramps lead you upward toward impressive colonnades carved with royal imagery and sacred rituals.
Photo Stop at the Colossi of Memnon – Guardians of Ancient Thebes
Standing before the towering Colossi of Memnon , you immediately feel the awe that ancient travelers once experienced as they entered the sacred city of Thebes . These monumental twin statues, rising more than 18 meters high, are all that remain of the once-grand mortuary temple of Amenhotep III , yet their silent presence continues to dominate the landscape. Your guide shares the legends of the “singing colossus,” a phenomenon that fascinated Greek and Roman visitors for centuries, adding an air of mystery to this iconic Luxor landmark .
Guided Tour of Luxor Temple – The Jewel of the East Bank
As you step into the enchanting Luxor Temple during the golden hours of early evening, the entire complex feels alive with history and light. The soft illumination reveals towering statues of Ramses II , elegant papyrus columns, and expansive open courts that once hosted ancient ceremonies. Your expert guide leads you along the iconic Avenue of Sphinxes , a majestic path that once connected the temple to Karnak , helping you visualize processions that took place more than 3,000 years ago—an unforgettable highlight of any Luxor sightseeing experience.
Lunch at a Local Nile-View Restaurant
After your spiritual journey across Luxor , it’s time to pause and savor a memorable lunch at a local Nile-view restaurant , where the serene river current meets ancient history. As your private vehicle winds along the Nile’s edge, your guide escorts you to a charming dining spot overlooking the water. This moment offers nourishment not just for your body, but also for your heart, as you reflect on the temple visits , royal architecture , and stories shared by your expert guide.
Optional Nile Felucca Ride
Choosing the optional Nile felucca ride adds a peaceful and deeply personal moment to your Luxor adventure—an experience that gently connects you to the ancient rhythm of the world’s most legendary river. After your temple visits, your guide escorts you to the banks of the Nile , where a traditional wooden felucca awaits with its elegant white sail fluttering softly in the breeze. Whether you’re capturing photos, listening to the gentle splash of water, or simply closing your eyes to feel the moment, the felucca ride becomes a memory of pure tranquility—optional, yet unforgettable.
Free Time for Shopping & Souvenirs in Luxor
After an enriching day exploring the ancient wonders of Luxor , you are invited to enjoy some free time for shopping and souvenirs in the city’s vibrant market areas. Wander through charming lanes filled with handcrafted items , authentic papyrus artworks , aromatic Egyptian perfumes , and unique traditional crafts that capture the essence of Luxor’s cultural heritage . Your guide will provide helpful tips on haggling , ensuring you find the best keepsakes to remember your journey.
Return Transfer to Soma Bay / Sahl Hasheesh Hotels
As the sun begins to set over the timeless city of Luxor , enjoy a relaxing return transfer to your Soma Bay or Sahl Hasheesh hotels . Settling into a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle , you can reflect on a day filled with awe-inspiring ancient monuments , majestic temples , and the rich cultural heritage of Thebes . The journey through the desert landscapes offers tranquil views, giving you a moment to unwind and cherish the memories captured during your guided tours .

04.How to choose the right experience
Scenic Transfer Across the Nile to the West Bank – Cross the legendary river to the land of pharaohs, tombs, and ancient secrets.

05.Packages, prices and optional costs
Compare the listed package options and their separate extras. Ask for a confirmed quotation and availability for your travel dates before booking.
| OPTION / TRAVELLER | AMOUNT | UNIT | WHAT THE OPTION COVERS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | $150 | Per person | Private transfers, Egyptologist, Karnak, Luxor Temple, Hatshepsut, Colossi and lunch |
| Premium | $200 | Per person | Standard plus VIP pickup, personalised guiding, priority access, water and snacks |
Group reductions: the programme describes 10% off for 4–6 travellers and 15% off for groups of at least seven.
Optional tickets and extras
| OPTION | ADDITIONAL COST |
|---|---|
| Nile felucca ride | $25 per person |
| Private photography | $30 per person |
| Tutankhamun tomb entry | $15 per person |
Optional restaurant and hotel examples
These approximate local price examples are independent of the tour package; ask the venue or booking team to confirm the applicable amount.
| VENUE | APPROXIMATE COST | TYPE |
|---|---|---|
| Nile Panorama Restaurant | $25–$35 | Restaurant meal / person |
| Olives Restaurant (Hilton Luxor) | $20–$30 | Restaurant meal / person |
| Abydos Nile View Café | $15–$25 | Restaurant meal / person |

06.What is included and what costs extra
+Included in the described option
- Private return transfer from Soma Bay or Sahl Hasheesh
- Egyptologist-led programme at the named temples
- Lunch at a Nile-view restaurant
−Not included / requires a separate booking
- Optional Nile felucca and private photography
- Additional Tutankhamun tomb ticket
- Personal shopping and tips
07.Travel tips and practical planning
Comfortable footwear
Expect walking on uneven ground at Karnak, Luxor Temple and Hatshepsut.
Sun protection
Carry a hat and sunscreen for the outdoor West Bank locations.
River option
Arrange any optional felucca sailing separately.
Group size
Confirm any group reduction for the final number of travellers.

08.Questions travellers often ask
Does the trip cover both sides of Luxor?
Yes. The East Bank and West Bank are both part of the programme, including Karnak, Luxor Temple, Hatshepsut and the Colossi.
Can I add a felucca ride?
Yes. The Nile felucca option is listed separately rather than as part of the base fare.
Are there reductions for larger parties?
The programme describes group reductions for four or more travellers; the discount and eligibility need to be confirmed before booking.
Where does the hotel transfer start?
Pickup is described from Soma Bay or Sahl Hasheesh hotels, followed by a return transfer.
Ready to plan this experience?
Ask the Hurghada To Go team about the route, available dates, the selected price option and practical details.
Other experiences to consider
Explore these separate available tour listings and their starting EUR rates.

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